What's a good half-way stop, Seattle-San Francisco?
 

What's the best place to stop, from the point of view of distance, facilities, accommodations (maybe even security) for driving with all one's most cherished possessions from Seattle to San Francisco? Don't figure it can be done comfortably in one day, but will have to empty out the car into the motel room over one night.

Suggestions?

If you're on the freeway, the halfway point is somewhere around Roseburg-Grants Pass, either of which ought to be okay. Look for a motel with ground floor units accessible directly from the parking lot, so you don't have to schlep things through the lobby or upstairs.

On the coast, somewhere around Coos Bay is the halfway point, although there may be more choice a little further south - Gold Beach maybe. Lots of single-story motels in that area. Alternatively, go to Grants Pass on the freeway, then cut over on US199 to Crescent City and go the rest of the way on 101. Beautiful drive through the redwoods and N. California, but way slower than I-5.

I don't think security will be a big deal in either place - just use common sense.

It can be done in one day - depends on the age, the number of drivers, and your load. If you start out really early, you can do it in about 14 hours, including pit stops; or 12 hours, without. :) However, this would put you in SF at night to unload your car.

I would suggest stopping in south Oregon, near Medford or Ashland. Nice people, the Oregonians.

Or you could venture into California. Would not suggest Weed or Redding as stopoff points. For some reason, I don't have good memories of either place. If I am doing you an injustice, please forgive me, good people of Weed and Redding!

Have a nice drive!

After MANY trips of this area--Grant's Pass is our main stop. Many motels off freeway with restaurants adjacent. Medford is our second choice. We don't stop at Ashland even though we like the area, as motels prices seem higher than the other places mentioned and unavailable if one of the Shakespeare Festivals is going on..
IMO staying on I-5 is the best and fastest route--of course the scenery while nice in some places does not compare with the Oregon coast...

I live in Grants Pass and it would be a good stop. Stay near I-5 and there is alot of restaurants(Denny's and fast food type) to within walking distance of most hotels. Security isnt much of an issue in Grants Pass (there isnt alot of crime) Roseburg would be a good choice too. If you need info on hotels let me know.