2026 California Road Trips Guide Released
Travelers dreaming of scenic drives, coastal highways, mountain escapes, and unforgettable adventures now have a new source of inspiration. Visit California has officially released the 2026 California Road Trips Guide, a must-have resource for anyone planning the ultimate Golden State getaway.
2026 California Road Trips Guide Released
This year’s edition arrives during the Route 66 centennial celebration, making it especially timely for road trip lovers eager to rediscover one of America’s most legendary highways. With comedian and California Now podcast host Josh Meyers featured on the cover, the guide celebrates the spirit of exploration that makes California one of the best road trip destinations in the world.
What is the 2026 California Road Trips Guide?
The 2026 California Road Trips Guide is the latest travel publication from Visit California, designed to inspire visitors with fresh itineraries, immersive travel stories, visually rich features, and unique ways to explore the state.
From iconic highways and famous attractions to hidden gems and lesser-known escapes, the guide showcases why California remains one of the top places for road trips in the USA.
According to Caroline Beteta, president and CEO of Visit California, California road trips are a gateway to discovery, connection, and unforgettable experiences.
Route 66 takes center stage in 2026
One of the biggest highlights of the new guide is its feature on Route 66, which celebrates 100 years in 2026.
Known as one of America’s most iconic highways, Route 66 reaches its famous western finish line at the Santa Monica Pier in Southern California. The guide encourages travelers to rediscover the route during this historic anniversary year.
To enhance the experience, Visit California has also released a Route 66 Passport, a collectible keepsake available at select California Welcome Centers. Travelers can use it to explore communities, landmarks, and attractions along the route.
A digital version of the passport also offers trip-planning ideas, games, and year-round content.
Josh Meyers road trip to Mammoth Lakes
This year’s cover star, Josh Meyers, takes readers on a first-person road trip adventure to Mammoth Lakes in California’s scenic Eastern Sierra.
His journey introduces readers to the region’s landscapes, local personalities, outdoor adventures, and stories that define one of California’s most spectacular mountain destinations.
The Mammoth Lakes trip is also featured in a California Now podcast episode, giving travelers another way to experience the journey before hitting the road themselves.
Top features inside the 2026 guide
The new California travel guide is packed with creative road trip themes and inspiring destinations across the state.
Parallel Beauty
A visually striking photo essay explores the contrast and connection between Highway 1 and U.S. Route 101, two of California’s most famous coastal drives.
Gone Surfin’
This section celebrates California’s legendary surf culture and encourages travelers to explore beach towns, waves, and oceanfront adventures up and down the coast.
Taste Trek Through the North Coast
Led by chef Melissa King, this culinary road trip highlights standout food stops, regional flavors, and must-visit dining experiences in Northern California.
Gold Country Treasures
Travelers can discover California Gold Country through scenic landscapes, wildflower-filled roads, charming towns, and outdoor experiences rich in history.
Out and Exploring
A couple-led journey through Big Sur and the state’s giant sequoias reveals one of the most breathtaking road trips in California.
Gateway Weekend Getaways
Perfect for short breaks, this feature focuses on quick and easy escapes from major California cities, including wine country retreats and mountain hideaways.
Theme Park Add-Ons
Popular destinations such as Disneyland Resort and Universal Studios Hollywood are presented as ideal starting points for wider Southern California road trip adventures.
Minor Leagues, Major Fun
This playful route explores California’s Minor League baseball teams, quirky traditions, community spirit, and family-friendly fun.
Undiscovered Sierra
Lesser-known Sierra destinations are highlighted as peaceful basecamps for hiking, nature, and outdoor adventure.
Golden Gate Soundtrack
A music-themed itinerary connects destinations through California’s rich musical and cultural heritage.
Why California is perfect for road trips
Few destinations offer the variety California does. In a single state, travelers can drive dramatic coastlines, snow-capped mountains, deserts, vineyards, forests, vibrant cities, and charming small towns.
The 2026 guide reminds visitors that California road trips are not just about getting from one place to another—they are about discovery, spontaneity, and unforgettable moments along the way.
Whether you want to surf in the morning, taste wine in the afternoon, and watch a sunset by the Pacific in the evening, California makes it possible.
Where to get the 2026 California Road Trips Guide
The 2026 California Road Trips Guide is available online at VisitCalifornia.com/travel-guides and at California Welcome Centers statewide.
Travelers planning a 2026 vacation should grab a copy early to start mapping routes, discovering hidden gems, and building the ultimate California itinerary.
Sorin Dutoiu, Managing Partner of YOLO Media company
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