by Admin 
Scenic Routes: Beautiful Drives Along the Coast and Beyond
Southern California is famous for its stunning scenic drives that offer breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re cruising along the coast or exploring the inland mountains, these routes are perfect for a leisurely drive. Let’s dive into some of the most beautiful drives you can take in Southern California.
Pacific Coast Highway: Ocean Views Galore
The Pacific Coast Highway (PCH), also known as Highway 1, is one of the most iconic drives in the world. Stretching along the coast from Orange County to Ventura County, this route offers stunning ocean views and charming coastal towns. As you drive along PCH, you’ll enjoy the sight of waves crashing against the cliffs and the smell of the salty sea air.
One of the best sections of PCH is between Laguna Beach and Malibu. Start your journey in Laguna Beach, where you can stroll through art galleries and enjoy a coffee by the sea. As you head north, the road winds along the coast, offering stunning views at every turn. Stop at Crystal Cove State Park for a hike or a picnic on the beach.
Continuing your drive, you’ll pass through Huntington Beach, also known as Surf City USA. This is a great spot to watch surfers or take a walk on the pier. Further north, you’ll reach the scenic beauty of Malibu. Here, you can visit Zuma Beach or take a short detour to explore the Malibu Wine Country. The drive along PCH is a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Angeles Crest Highway: Mountain Majesty
For a completely different but equally stunning drive, head to the Angeles Crest Highway. This route takes you through the San Gabriel Mountains and offers incredible views of the rugged mountain landscape. The highway begins in La Cañada Flintridge and winds its way up into the mountains, reaching altitudes of over 7,000 feet.
As you drive along Angeles Crest Highway, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the mountains and valleys below. The road is filled with twists and turns, making it a fun and exciting drive. Be sure to stop at some of the scenic viewpoints along the way, like the one at Red Box Gap, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks.
If you’re up for a bit of adventure, take a detour to Mount Wilson Observatory. The observatory is home to some of the largest telescopes in the world and offers fascinating tours. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the Pacific Ocean from the observatory’s grounds.
Palms to Pines Scenic Byway: Desert to Forest
The Palms to Pines Scenic Byway offers a unique driving experience, taking you from the desert floor of Palm Springs to the pine-covered mountains of Idyllwild. This route showcases the diverse landscapes of Southern California and is a perfect way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
Starting in Palm Springs, you’ll drive through the desert, with its distinctive Joshua trees and cacti. As you ascend into the San Jacinto Mountains, the landscape changes dramatically. The air becomes cooler, and the desert gives way to lush pine forests. The drive is filled with hairpin turns and stunning vistas, making it an exhilarating journey.
A must-stop along the way is the town of Idyllwild. This charming mountain town is a great place to stretch your legs and explore. You can browse through local shops, enjoy a meal at one of the cozy restaurants, or simply relax and take in the mountain scenery. The Palms to Pines Scenic Byway is a fantastic drive that highlights the incredible diversity of Southern California’s landscapes.
Route 66: A Journey Through History
No list of scenic drives in Southern California would be complete without mentioning the historic Route 66. Known as the Main Street of America, this iconic highway stretches from Chicago to Santa Monica. The Southern California section of Route 66 offers a nostalgic journey through small towns and historic landmarks.
Starting in San Bernardino, you can visit the original McDonald’s restaurant, which is now a museum. As you drive west, you’ll pass through the charming town of Claremont, with its tree-lined streets and historic buildings. Stop by the Folk Music Center to explore a unique collection of musical instruments from around the world.
Further along Route 66, you’ll reach Pasadena, known for its beautiful historic architecture and vibrant arts scene. Take a stroll down Colorado Boulevard and visit the Norton Simon Museum or enjoy a coffee at one of the many charming cafes. Continuing west, you’ll eventually arrive at the Santa Monica Pier, where Route 66 officially ends. This iconic spot offers stunning ocean views and a fun atmosphere, perfect for ending your journey.
Tips for Enjoying Scenic Drives
When embarking on a scenic drive, it’s important to plan ahead to make the most of your trip. Start by checking the weather forecast and road conditions, especially if you’re driving through mountainous areas. Pack plenty of water, snacks, and a good playlist to keep you entertained along the way.
Be sure to take your time and enjoy the journey. Scenic drives are all about soaking in the views and exploring new places. Stop at scenic viewpoints, take photos, and enjoy a picnic at a picturesque spot. Remember, it’s not just about the destination, but the journey itself.
It’s also a good idea to have a map or GPS handy. While the main routes are usually well-marked, some detours and side roads can be confusing. Having navigation tools can help ensure you stay on track and find all the best spots along the way.
Roadside Attractions: Quirky and Fun Stops Along the Way
Southern California is not just about beautiful landscapes and scenic drives; it’s also home to some of the quirkiest and most fun roadside attractions you’ll ever find. Whether you’re on a road trip with friends or family, these stops add a bit of whimsy and adventure to your journey. Let’s explore some of the must-see quirky roadside attractions that will make your drive through Southern California even more memorable.
The Cabazon Dinosaurs: Prehistoric Fun
If you’re driving along Interstate 10 near Palm Springs, you can’t miss the gigantic Cabazon Dinosaurs. These massive dinosaurs have been a roadside icon for decades, and they’re a perfect stop for a fun photo op. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time as you walk among these prehistoric giants.
The two most famous dinosaurs are Dinny the Dinosaur and Mr. Rex. Dinny is a massive Apatosaurus that you can actually walk inside of. Inside, you’ll find a small gift shop with dinosaur-themed souvenirs. Mr. Rex, a towering Tyrannosaurus rex, offers a unique experience where you can climb up into his mouth for a great view and an amazing photo opportunity.
Kids will love the dinosaur-themed playground and the nearby museum, which features animatronic dinosaurs and educational exhibits. It’s a fun and educational stop that will delight dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
Salvation Mountain: A Colorful Oasis
Salvation Mountain is a vibrant, colorful art installation located in the desert near the Salton Sea. Created by artist Leonard Knight, this unique attraction is a testament to love and creativity. The mountain is covered in bright paint and features messages of love and faith, making it a truly unique sight.
As you approach Salvation Mountain, you’ll be struck by the explosion of colors against the desert backdrop. You can explore the various paths and alcoves, all adorned with Knight’s artwork and messages. The mountain is made from adobe, straw, and thousands of gallons of paint, creating a one-of-a-kind experience.
Visitors are encouraged to take photos and explore the art up close. It’s a peaceful and inspiring place, perfect for a reflective moment during your road trip. Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the vibrant colors and intricate details of this extraordinary attraction.
Bottle Tree Ranch: A Whimsical Forest
Located along historic Route 66 in Oro Grande, Bottle Tree Ranch is a whimsical roadside attraction created by artist Elmer Long. This quirky stop features hundreds of “bottle trees” made from metal poles and adorned with colorful glass bottles. It’s a surreal and magical place that’s sure to spark your imagination.
As you wander through Bottle Tree Ranch, you’ll be amazed by the creativity and craftsmanship on display. Each bottle tree is unique, with different shapes, colors, and patterns of bottles. The sun shining through the glass creates a dazzling display of light and color. You’ll feel like you’ve entered a magical forest made entirely of glass.
Bottle Tree Ranch is an ideal stop for photographers and art lovers. You can spend time exploring the different trees, taking photos, and chatting with the friendly artist if he’s around. It’s a delightful and unexpected stop that adds a touch of whimsy to your road trip.
The World’s Largest Thermometer: A Hot Attraction
In the desert town of Baker, you’ll find the World’s Largest Thermometer, a towering 134-foot structure that’s hard to miss. This quirky attraction was built to commemorate the record high temperature of 134 degrees Fahrenheit recorded in nearby Death Valley in 1913.
The thermometer is a fun and quirky stop that’s perfect for a quick photo. It’s especially impressive at night when it lights up, displaying the current temperature in glowing numbers. There’s a small gift shop nearby where you can pick up souvenirs and learn more about the history of this unusual attraction.
The World’s Largest Thermometer is a great spot to stretch your legs and snap a few fun photos. It’s a quirky piece of roadside Americana that adds a bit of fun to your journey through the desert.
Tips for Enjoying Roadside Attractions
When planning your road trip, it’s always a good idea to include a few quirky roadside attractions in your itinerary. These stops not only break up the drive but also add a sense of adventure and discovery to your trip. Here are a few tips to make the most of your roadside attraction stops.
First, do some research ahead of time to find out which attractions are along your route. There are many hidden gems that you might not know about unless you plan ahead. Make a list of the ones that interest you and plan your route accordingly.
Always have your camera ready. These quirky attractions are perfect for capturing unique and fun photos that will make great memories. Whether it’s a giant dinosaur or a colorful bottle tree, you’ll want to document your experience.
Allow yourself some extra time to explore. Roadside attractions are meant to be enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Don’t rush through them; take the time to soak in the details and enjoy the experience. Sometimes the best moments of a road trip are the unexpected stops and discoveries.
Finally, be respectful of the attractions and the surrounding area. Many of these quirky stops are created by local artists and communities who take pride in their work. Treat the attractions with care and follow any posted guidelines to help preserve them for future visitors.
