Bay Area CA to OKC w/ 16mo old

[Ruru]

Looking for any tips on this road trip we're planning from San Fran to Oklahoma City to see grampa. It'll be 2 adults and a 16 month old. What are some scenic places to stop at along the way that wouldn't take too much extra drive time? Grand Canyon maybe?
And anyone have tips on long drives with a 1 yr old?

Deleting a post after people have responded is not only rude, it makes it impossible for others to understand the conversation. - Mod

[Southwest Dave]

Hello and welcome to the RTA forums !

You don't say how much time you have for the journey ? The Grand canyon would be top of most lists and if you have time you could even drive through Monument valley but on a more direct route on I40 you could visit the Petrified forest and stop at some old route 66 towns, even stay in a Wigwam in Holbrook. The Sandia Peak Tramway near Albuquerque offers a great ride to the top of Sandia peak for spectacular views. If this is a round trip you could look at doing a couple of things in each direction and possibly change the route a bit so you get to see new places. Time is key really and you will need a minimum of 3 days just for the drive out there, plus any sight seeing stops.

[Ruru]

Oops, I forgot that part! Thanks. There's no strict time frame, so all your ideas are great and appreciated.

[AZBuck]

With 'no strict time frame' (There are always real limits on time!) you have the opportunity to satisfy both the toddler and the adults. As Dave has pointed out, there are some major worthwhile attractions on a relatively direct route from San Francisco Bay to Oklahoma City including not only the Grand Canyon and Petrified Forest National Parks, but also Petroglyph National Monument in Albuquerque and both a Route 66 museum in Clinton OK and the longest remaining stretch of the old Route 66 roadbed in Arizona between Kingman and Seligman through Peach Springs. Those would all be for the adults and will make no impression on the toddler whatsoever. For him short stops every few hours for some fresh air and running around time are going to be much more meaningful and helpful in keeping him entertained and worn out.

AZBuck

[Lifemagician]

And anyone have tips on long drives with a 1 yr old?

Limit your miles per day. Drive when bub is asleep, and stop for a break when bub awakens. We also found it helpful to stop for more than one night in a place, every few days. Take the favourite blanket with you and toys..... but I guess you don't need to be told that.

It's really not all that hard, so long as bub's needs come before yours.

Lifey

[Ruru]

Thanks! Got everything I think I'm going to get here. Bye!