Need suggestions and ideas for cross country drive - from Ohio to central coast CA (bridge, attractions)

[Mimiface]

We are leaving after Christmas from Ohio. Anyone has had similar route? As it is in winter, do we have to be aware of snow storms? Almost all the states will be my first time, never had such a long drive before in my life. Which cities/places worth stoping for a night? Which places to avoid since we have young kids? Thanks in advance!

[GBCommenter]

I have not been specifically Ohio to CA, but a few thoughts that will hopefully help -

You mention central coast, which makes this suggestion a bit difficult, but many years ago I drove Minneapolis to San Diego Christmastime. I/we intentionally drove far south first and then west. Idea was to avoid driving mountains in a car in winter. I'm sure it would have been beautiful, but potentially a bad drive.

Cities/places worth stopping for a night, especially kid oriented? I don't have specific ideas other than check out this website: Roadside America - Guide to Uniquely Odd Tourist Attractions. You can find a bunch of "roadside stops" that may give you ideas, perhaps some of them more to let the kids get out of the car and run around more than anything.

Okay, one idea - I'd probably find my way to the Grand Canyon...even if you do just the bridge and stay at the top - it's still pretty awesome.

[Uplander]

In bad weather the western Interstates may be closed for awhile. You may want to allow time and money for delays. Also weather in the valleys can be drastically different from weather a few miles down the road at higher elevations. Be sure to prepare for that as well.

[busydesk]

Use the AAA website if you aren't a member, or go to the local office and get a triptik made if you are- they will include a lot of helpful hints in that plan. The 511 website for travel information can also be helpful on your trip. I haven't made that trip in the winter, but as stated you could hit some closed roads if the weather gets ugly ( like recently).
What you need to be absolutely sure of is keeping gas in the car and having plenty of water, snack foods, and tire chains ( and know how to use these BEFORE you hit the road). This time of year you are inevitably going to hit snow and heading west there will be roads that require the use of chains for passage. Have blankets or sleeping bags handy, too; if you should have a difficulty and need roadside assistance you may need to bundle up while you wait. If you get stranded you will want snacks for the kids and water is a must for everyone.
It doesn't have to be scary; just do your "due diligence" about the route and have contingencies for lodging along the way.
The AAA website used to have a free interactive trip planner that anyone can use. It was great fun to play with and offers good suggestions for places to stop with children. I haven't been on it for a while and updating could have changed the format, but try it out.