Could you give us some examples suzmardav? I'd be intersted too.

Time-wise, you're fine. I've driven across country four times, been through every state but five, stopped in every major city I'd ever heard of AND have eaten foods from the region.

I highly suggest stopping into a Automobile Club of America. (AAA). I think its about $50 or less to join, they can map out your travels, give you tour books, and of course there are towing benefits should you need it...

Have fun, lock your doors and...hopefully you are doing the buddy system and/or get a GO PHONE (prepaid at 7-11) and let someone know your itinerary. The world isn't as safe as it used to be!

Since you are not from the US, Amtrak offers cheap fares for foreigners. Last year did a trip up and down the Eastcoast within 30 days and I only paid 270$ for the ticket. I am not sure where the train goes exactly but it might be worth considering since you could a overnight ride and rest during the ride, whereas by car you will probably exhausted after a while.

Hello cchean,
We are from South Dakota and we took basically the smae trip, including the San D. zoo. We did it in 7 days, therefore your 20 days should allow plenty of time to enjoy the trip. we did have to rush some in the seven days. But do not avoid Mount Rushmore or the Yelowstone National Park, or the Salt Flats of Utah - these are in great contrast to the California scenery. And of course you can rent cars in Rapid City.