We will be traveling from Phoenix to Los Angeles, with 3 kids, 13, 9 and 4 We would like to stay overnight somewhere in between to break up the 6 hour drive. Any suggestions on a cool town and accomodations that aren't too expensive.

You could stop at the river. You'll be going right through Blythe. I don't know if Blythe really has a cool factor though. Lake Havasu would be more interesting, but it would require going about 45 minutes out of yoiur way, but the London Bridge is there.

The Palm Springs area is another option, but it is more like 2/3 of the way than half way, about 4 hours out of Phoenix.

You will probably be better off just driving the whole way in one day and getting it over with. Stop often to let the kids stretch and maybe have a treat.

Utahtea

I would vote for driving the whole way. The only place to stop is Palm Springs. No way would I spend anytime in Blythe with my kids. Try getting some books on tape to entertain everyone. Harry Potter books on tape have been on all our trips driving to the west coast. Even if your kids have read the books it is still interesting.

Thank you for your responses the books on tape are a GREAT idea! I was thinking maybe lunch near Joshua Tree NP or somewhere near.

Made the drive from Phoenix to LA in November via I-10, don't remember anything interesting near the Joshua Tree exit. In fact the main visitors center is in TwentyNine Palms. (There were no Joshua trees at the southern visitors center).

Depending on the time of day you arrive, I would agree with Utahtea and drive the whole distance. Blythe is nothing but a gas and food stop in the desert and offers nothing interesting about it.

We made this drive a lot when I was young. My grandparents were in the LA area. I second (or third or fourth) the recommendation to do it all at once. You don't say when you are going, but if it is in hot weather, you might try getting a very early start. That way, you don't waste the whole day driving and still have time for a fun activity once you get to LA (and something to look forward to during the drive).