San Francisco To Phoenix Road Trip: A Transformative Journey

San Francisco to Phoenix road trip is one of the best journeys you can experience in the USA. The 754 miles of San Francisco to Phoenix drive takes around 11 hours and 27 mins without stops.

This article includes 15 tips that turn your San Francisco to Phoenix drive into an unforgettable journey. So if you’re looking for the best hotels, restaurants, and places to visit on the road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix, take your coffee and keep reading!

5 Best Hotels On The Road Trip From San Francisco To Phoenix

On the San Francisco to Phoenix road trip, you may want to stay at some points. Here are the top five hotels on the San Francisco – Phoenix route!

1. Best Western Plus Hill House

If you want to stay near Bakersfield, California; Best Western Plus Hill House could be a suitable option for you on the San Francisco to Phoenix road trip. Driving from San Francisco to Best Western Plus Hill House might take around 4 hours and 25 mins.

The Best Western Plus Hill House in Bakersfield, California is a fantastic place to stay on your road trip from Phoenix to San Francisco. This pet-friendly hotel is conveniently located near many popular attractions in Bakersfield, including Rabobank Arena. With easy access to many other areas and points of interest, it’s an ideal place to break up the long drive and explore the local area. The hotel provides complimentary continental breakfast and on-site restaurant dining options to make your stay enjoyable and comfortable. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-equipped with all the amenities you need, making it a perfect place to rest and recharge before hitting the road again. The friendly staff goes above and beyond to make sure you have a pleasant stay, adding to the overall positive experience. So, if you’re looking for a great place to stay on your road trip, the Best Western Plus Hill House is worth considering. With its excellent location and comfortable accommodations, it’s a great choice to relax and rejuvenate on your journey.

Check the Best Western Plus Hill House, one of the best hotels in Bakersfield, California, on TripAdvisor and Booking.com for recent reviews, prices, and availability.

2. Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita

If you’re looking for a hotel near Santa Clarita, California; Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita might be the perfect choice for you to stay on the road trip to Phoenix from San Francisco is Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita. Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is 353 miles away from San Francisco, and it would take 5 hours and 28 mins to drive.

Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita is a must-stop destination for anyone embarking on a Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. Situated in the heart of Santa Clarita’s Premier Arts & Entertainment District, the hotel offers visitors a unique blend of modern amenities and historic charm. The hotel’s stylishly decorated rooms provide a peaceful retreat for travelers to unwind and relax after a long day on the road. Located within walking distance of some of the best restaurants, live music venues, and luxurious shopping, the Lexen Hotel is an ideal place to rest and recharge. Whether you’re looking for a quick stopover or an extended stay, the Lexen Hotel in Santa Clarita is the perfect place to add to your itinerary. So, if you’re looking for a good place to stay on your Phoenix to San Francisco drive, look no further than the Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita.

If you want to learn more about the Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Booking.com.

3. The Prospect Hollywood

The Prospect Hollywood could be a great pick for you if you’re looking for a hotel near Los Angeles, California. The Prospect Hollywood is 375 miles away from San Francisco. You can arrive there in 5 hours and 45 mins of non-stop driving.

The Prospect Hollywood in Los Angeles, California, is a must-visit destination on any Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. This elegant and intimate hotel is perfect for a classy adult getaway, providing a tranquil retreat amid bustling Hollywood. The location is superb, within walking distance of some of the best restaurants and bars in the area. The Prospect Hollywood is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish and upscale experience. The architecture and design of the hotel are impressive, and the rooms are spotlessly clean and beautifully appointed. The staff is friendly and attentive, providing excellent service that is sure to make your stay a memorable one. So, if you’re looking for a good place to stay on your Phoenix to San Francisco drive, look no further than The Prospect Hollywood. You will love the ambiance, the luxurious amenities, and the peaceful atmosphere of this gem in the heart of Hollywood.

Check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of The Prospect Hollywood, for more information.

4. Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino

If you want to stay near San Bernardino, California; Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino could be a suitable option for you. Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is 439 miles from San Francisco, and it would take 6 hours and 46 mins to drive.

The Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino in San Bernardino, California, is an ideal place to stay on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. Located just off I-10 in San Bernardino’s Hospitality Lane business district, this modern hotel is close to restaurants, shopping, and entertainment options. The Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is an excellent choice for solo travelers looking for a safe and comfortable place to stay. The rooms are spacious, clean, and well-appointed, providing a relaxing retreat after a long day on the road. The hotel’s free hot breakfast buffet is a great way to start your day, with a selection of hot and cold favorites to choose from. Whether you’re visiting the Loma Linda University Medical Center or the National Orange Show Events Center, or just passing through, the Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino is a convenient and comfortable place to stay. With Big Bear Lake just 40 minutes away and the beautiful beaches of Los Angeles within easy driving distance, this hotel is a great choice for any traveler on a Phoenix to San Francisco drive.

If you need more info about the price and availability of Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino, check the TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages.

5. Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley

Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley could be a great pick for you if you’re looking for a hotel near Phoenix, Arizona. It will take 11 hours and 33 mins of the car ride o reach Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley from San Francisco.

If you’re on a Phoenix to San Francisco road trip and looking for a great place to stay, consider Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley in Phoenix, Arizona. The hotel offers a delightful breakfast to start your day off right, with friendly and gracious staff to make you feel welcome from the moment you arrive. The rooms are spacious and immaculate, providing a comfortable retreat after a long day on the road. One of the highlights of staying at Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley is the generous happy hour, with complimentary drinks and appetizers for guests to enjoy. This is a great way to unwind and socialize with other travelers after a day of driving. The hotel is conveniently located near local attractions and restaurants, making it a great place to stay on your Phoenix to San Francisco drive. With its comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and great amenities, Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley is a good place to stay and an excellent choice for any traveler.

Check the Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley on TripAdvisor and Booking.com pages of Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley for reviews, prices, and availability.

In this part, we explained five hotels you could stay at on the road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix. You can pick one of them that suits your taste. Don’t forget to share your experience by commenting on this post. It will help people who will take San Francisco to Phoenix route.

Now, it’s time to discover the best restaurants from San Francisco to Phoenix. We have five restaurant recommendations worth your attention.

5 Best Restaurants On The San Francisco To Phoenix Road Trip

If dining is a pleasure, some restaurants will please you on your San Francisco to Phoenix road trip. This section lists five restaurants to dine at on the road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix. Stay hungry and enjoy!

1. 24th Street Cafe

We would like to start our restaurant recommendation list on San Francisco to Phoenix road trip with 24th Street Cafe. 24th Street Cafe is located in Bakersfield, California, and is 284 miles from San Francisco. It would take 4 hours and 26 mins of driving.

24th Street Cafe in Bakersfield, California is a gem of a spot on the Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. As you make your way along the highway, this cozy cafe beckons with its classic American fare and welcoming atmosphere. What stands out most about the 24th Street Cafe is its homemade feel – every dish is crafted with care, from the fluffy pancakes to the juicy burgers. And the menu? It’s filled with plenty of options to satisfy any craving, from hearty dinners to light bites. Whether you’re a Bakersfield resident or just passing through, this cafe is a must-visit spot on the drive. So pull off the road, take a seat, and indulge in some good old-fashioned comfort food at the 24th Street Cafe.

For more information about 24th Street Cafe, you can visit TripAdvisor or Google Maps pages of 24th Street Cafe.

2. Egg Plantation

Another top restaurant you can choose to eat at on the road trip to Phoenix from San Francisco is Egg Plantation. Located in Santa Clarita, California, Egg Plantation is 353 miles from San Francisco and would take 5 hours and 27 mins of driving.

Egg Plantation in Santa Clarita, California is a must-visit spot on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. This cozy restaurant offers an extensive breakfast menu, featuring over 100 different omelets to choose from. Not only that, but they also serve specialty espresso drinks and have a full bar with an impressive selection of Bloody Marys. One thing that sets Egg Plantation apart is their live music on Saturdays and Sundays, played by the talented Marco Tulio. The atmosphere is friendly and inviting, and the staff is attentive and welcoming. Whether you’re stopping in for a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Egg Plantation is a great place to take a break on your road trip. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem in Santa Clarita!

If you want to learn more about Egg Plantation, check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

3. Brent’s Deli Northridge

Another restaurant that can be preferred by those who are fond of food is Brent’s Deli Northridge. It will take 5 hours and 44 mins of car drive to take 369 miles from San Francisco to Brent’s Deli Northridge, Los Angeles, California.

Brent’s Deli Northridge in Los Angeles, California is a top-notch spot for a delicious meal on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. Since 1967, Brent’s Deli has been serving guests quality meals made from traditional recipes and premium cuts. As a family-owned deli, they take pride in offering exceptional service and ensuring their customers leave satisfied. Not only that, but Brent’s Deli has a great selection of coffee that pairs perfectly with their mouth-watering desserts. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Whether you’re craving a classic deli sandwich or a hearty salad, Brent’s Deli has something for everyone. If you’re looking for a great place to stop and refuel on your road trip, be sure to check out Brent’s Deli Northridge. You won’t regret it!

You can check Brent’s Deli Northridge, on TripAdvisor or Google Maps for more information.

4. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino deserves to be on our list. It is one of the most recommended restaurants in San Bernardino, California.

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse in San Bernardino is a must-stop on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. We were pleasantly surprised by the quality of food and service at this chain restaurant. Despite the wait to get seated, the server greeted us promptly and provided excellent service throughout our meal. The extensive menu has something for everyone, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. We highly recommend trying the clam chowder and their famous burgers and ribs. And don’t forget to save room for dessert, as their sweet treats are out of this world! BJ’s also has a full bar and craft beers, which is perfect for a late-night stopover. Overall, we left BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse in San Bernardino feeling satisfied and happy with our dining experience. Don’t miss out on this gem during your Phoenix to San Francisco drive!

BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino is 440 miles from San Francisco, and it would take 6 hours and 45 mins of non-stop car driving. If you want to learn more about BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino, you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

5. Rusconi’s American Kitchen

If you enjoy dining, Rusconi’s American Kitchen would be an excellent choice in Phoenix, Arizona. It’s 766 miles from San Francisco and would take 11 hours and 37 mins of car driving.

Rusconi’s American Kitchen in Phoenix, Arizona, is a hidden gem that you should visit on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. From the moment we stepped in, we were impressed by the warm and inviting atmosphere, which set the tone for an exceptional dining experience. The outstanding service we received from the staff was second to none, making us feel right at home. The menu is a mix of American classics and Southwestern favorites, with many locally sourced ingredients. We highly recommend the braised short ribs, which were cooked to perfection and melted in our mouths. And for dessert, the Bread Pudding was simply divine! We loved every bite of it. The attention to detail that went into each dish was evident in both taste and presentation. Overall, our experience at Rusconi’s American Kitchen was delightful, and we left feeling satisfied and content. If you’re looking for a great place to stop on your Phoenix to San Francisco drive, Rusconi’s American Kitchen is a must-visit!

If you want to learn more about Rusconi’s American Kitchen you can check it on TripAdvisor or Google Maps.

This section lists our five restaurant recommendations for your road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix. We hope these suggestions will help you turn your 754 miles journey into a feast of taste. Of course, you can choose a suitable restaurant from the list according to your preference. Remember, like you, people planning a Phoenix road trip need your opinion. Therefore, we kindly ask you to share your experience with us in the comment field at the end of the blog post.

In the next section, we list the destinations worth seeing along the route from San Francisco to Phoenix. Keep reading.

5 Places To Visit On The San Francisco To Phoenix Drive

A unique experience awaits you in Phoenix. However, there are also some unique destinations like Bakersfield, California on your road trip. We want to explain the top five destinations we recommend on the Phoenix route.

1. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace will be the first destination we recommend you stop by on your San Francisco to Phoenix road trip. Located in Bakersfield, California, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is 283 miles away from San Francisco, and it would take 4 hours and 24 mins to drive.

Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace in Bakersfield, California, is a must-stop destination on a Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. The live music creates an amazing atmosphere while enjoying a delicious meal. The service is top-notch and the staff is very family-friendly, making it a great place to bring your loved ones. What makes this spot so unique is the museum and memorabilia that adds a charming touch. The museum showcases Buck Owens’ history and musical journey, giving you an insight into his life. Overall, Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace is a fantastic spot to grab a bite and enjoy some music on your road trip from Phoenix to San Francisco. Don’t miss out on this gem!

If you want to learn more about Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace, check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

2. Six Flags Magic Mountain

Six Flags Magic Mountain, Santa Clarita, California is one of the destinations we recommend you stop by on the San Francisco to Phoenix route. It’s 348 miles from San Francisco, and it’ll take about 5 hours and 21 mins of driving.

Six Flags Magic Mountain in Santa Clarita, California, is a fantastic stop on a Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. Sprawled across 260 acres, it boasts over 100 attractions, making it an ideal destination for a day full of fun. With a wide range of roller coasters, water slides, animal experiences, food, and games, there is something to suit everyone’s taste. The roller coasters here are a must-try, and the adrenaline rush you get from them is just exhilarating. The water slides are also worth checking out, especially on a hot day. The animal experiences are perfect for animal lovers and provide educational insight into various species. The festivals held here are also fun, and the food and games add to the overall experience. It’s no wonder guests across the nation love their Six Flags experience. So, if you’re on a road trip from Phoenix to San Francisco, make sure to add Six Flags Magic Mountain to your list of stops!

If you want to learn more about Six Flags Magic Mountain, check it on TripAdvisor or their website.

3. Universal Studios Hollywood

One of the stops you should not neglect to stop by when you take the road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix in Los Angeles, California. And if you visit Los Angeles, California, we suggest you visit Universal Studios Hollywood. You can arrive at Universal Studios Hollywood after 5 hours and 43 mins of driving.

Universal Studios Hollywood is a must-visit destination on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. The park offers a thrilling experience, combining exciting theme park rides and shows with a real working movie studio. You can immerse yourself in the world of your favorite movies and TV shows, and even take a tour of the studio lot. But that’s not all – CityWalk, located just outside the park, has everything you need for a fun-filled day, from excellent restaurants to great shops and cinemas. Spend a full day here and you won’t be disappointed – Universal Studios Hollywood is an excellent addition to your drive.

You can visit TripAdvisor and the official site of Universal Studios Hollywood for more information.

4. San Bernardino National Forest

Do you also like to travel and experience new things? Then, it would be best to visit San Bernardino National Forest, San Bernardino, California on the San Francisco to Phoenix road trip. San Bernardino National Forest is 416 miles from San Francisco, and you can arrive there after the 6 hours and 32 mins of drive.

San Bernardino National Forest is a stunning destination that you simply must visit on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. This magnificent forest covers a vast area of 660,000 acres, situated in the San Bernardino Mountains. The forest boasts diverse landscapes, ranging from arid deserts to the towering alpine mountains of Southern California, with the highest peak being Mount San Gorgonio at 11,502 feet. It’s a nature lover’s paradise, with plenty of lakes, hikes, and small towns to explore. The forest offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, where you can soak up the natural beauty of your surroundings. As you drive through the forest, you’ll be struck by the breathtaking scenery and the tranquility of the wilderness. San Bernardino National Forest is truly a gem on the drive and a must-visit for anyone seeking a rejuvenating and refreshing experience in nature.

In addition, you should check TripAdvisor and the official website of San Bernardino National Forest before going there.

5. Desert Botanical Garden

Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Desert Botanical Garden ranks fifth in our list of tourist destinations on the road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix. You must take 11 hours and 31 mins of driving to arrive at Desert Botanical Garden.

The Desert Botanical Garden in Phoenix, Arizona, is a must-visit destination on your Phoenix to San Francisco road trip. This stunning garden is home to an incredible collection of plants and landscapes that will leave you feeling inspired and rejuvenated. With over 50,000 plants on display, the garden showcases the diversity and beauty of desert flora, from towering cacti to delicate wildflowers. Strolling through the garden’s trails, you’ll be struck by the unique colors and textures of the desert landscape. The garden is an excellent place to recharge your batteries and connect with nature. Whether you’re a professional photographer or just love taking pictures, the botanical garden is the perfect spot to capture all the natural beauty on your camera. It’s an oasis of tranquility on your drive, offering a unique and unforgettable experience for anyone seeking inspiration and connection with nature.

If you want to learn more about Desert Botanical Garden, check it on TripAdvisor or the official website.

FAQ of the Road Trip From San Francisco to Phoenix

Here we are answering the frequently asked questions about the San Francisco to Phoenix drive.

How Long Is The Road Trip From San Francisco To Phoenix?

• With ideal traffic and weather conditions, the San Francisco to Phoenix road trip takes approximately 11 hours and 27 mins to drive. The driving distance between San Francisco to Phoenix is 754 miles.
• If you want to make the San Francisco to Phoenix road trip by bike, the time you spend on the road will be 3 days and 4 hours.
• If you are crazy enough and plan to walk the San Francisco-Phoenix route, then you will have to walk for 10 days and 14 hours.

Where Do You Stop On Driving From San Francisco To Phoenix?

There are many beautiful pits stops along the way to Phoenix. You can visit Bakersfield, California; Santa Clarita, California; Los Angeles, California; San Bernardino, California; Phoenix, Arizona; on the road. Here we list five places to visit for you. For more information about the best places on the San Francisco to Phoenix journey, you can check the 5 Best Places To Visit On The San Francisco To Phoenix Road Trip.

1. Buck Owens’ Crystal Palace: 283 miles / 4 hours and 24 mins to drive from San Francisco | 484 miles / 7 hours and 25 mins of driving to Phoenix.
2. Six Flags Magic Mountain: 348 miles / 5 hours and 21 mins to drive from San Francisco | 408 miles / 6 hours and 17 mins of driving to Phoenix.
3. Universal Studios Hollywood: 373 miles / 5 hours and 43 mins to drive from San Francisco | 386 miles / 5 hours and 55 mins of driving to Phoenix.
4. San Bernardino National Forest: 416 miles / 6 hours and 32 mins to drive from San Francisco | 284 miles / 4 hours and 36 mins of driving to Phoenix.
5. Desert Botanical Garden: 760 miles / 11 hours and 31 mins to drive from San Francisco | 8.8 miles / 15 mins of driving to Phoenix.

Where Should You Stay On The Road Trip From San Francisco To Phoenix?

There are many excellent hotels during your road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix. We have selected five hotels for you. These hotels are listed below. Remember, you can find detailed information about these hotels in the 5 Best Hotels On The Road Trip To Phoenix From San Francisco section.

• Best Western Plus Hill House: 284 miles / 4 hours and 25 mins to drive from San Francisco | 485 miles / 7 hours and 28 mins of driving to Phoenix.
• Hotel Lexen Newhall & Santa Clarita: 353 miles / 5 hours and 28 mins to drive from San Francisco | 403 miles / 6 hours of driving to Phoenix.
• The Prospect Hollywood: 375 miles / 5 hours and 45 mins to drive from San Francisco | 379 miles / 5 hours and 56 mins of driving to Phoenix.
• Hampton Inn & Suites San Bernardino: 439 miles / 6 hours and 46 mins to drive from San Francisco | 316 miles / 4 hours and 50 mins of driving to Phoenix.
• Drury Inn & Suites Phoenix Happy Valley: 765 miles / 11 hours and 33 mins to drive from San Francisco | 21.2 miles / 28 mins of driving to Phoenix.

Where To Eat Between San Francisco to Phoenix?

If you are thinking of taking a break and having a nice meal on your San Francisco to Phoenix drive, you can consider the five restaurants we have chosen. In addition, you can read detailed information about the restaurants in the section titled 5 Best Restaurants On The San Francisco To Phoenix Road Trip.

1. 24th Street Cafe: 284 miles / 4 hours and 26 mins to drive from San Francisco | 486 miles / 7 hours and 29 mins of driving to Phoenix.
2. Egg Plantation: 353 miles / 5 hours and 27 mins to drive from San Francisco | 403 miles / 6 hours and 10 mins of driving to Phoenix.
3. Brent’s Deli Northridge: 369 miles / 5 hours and 44 mins to drive from San Francisco | 403 miles / 6 hours and 13 mins of driving to Phoenix.
4. BJ’s Restaurant & Brewhouse, San Bernardino: 440 miles / 6 hours and 45 mins to drive from San Francisco | 316 miles / 4 hours and 50 mins of driving to Phoenix.
5. Rusconi’s American Kitchen: 766 miles / 11 hours and 37 mins to drive from San Francisco | 14.4 miles / 21 mins of driving to Phoenix.

Conclusion

So, there you have it- a complete guide to planning a road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix. We have listed five hotels, five restaurants, and five places to visit on the San Francisco to Phoenix drive. We have also given you detailed information about each place so that you can make an informed choice about where to stay, eat, and what to see. We hope this guide has helped make your road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix as enjoyable as possible.

Share Your Thoughts

Have you ever taken the San Francisco to Phoenix road trip? So, it would be perfect if you shared your experience with other travelers who want to have the same experience. You can share your thoughts about the road trip from San Francisco to Phoenix and your recommendations about this route by using the comment field below.