Family-Friendly Road Trip from Vaughan to Myrtle Beach with Washington D.C. Stop

Day 1: Waterpark Adventure

Niagara Falls, Ontario on July 28, 2025

8:00am

Depart Vaughan

Start early to maximize time at Great Wolf Lodge, aiming to arrive before noon.
C0, 1h30m

10:00am

Breakfast at Tim Hortons in Niagara Falls

Stop at a local Tim Hortons on the way or near arrival for a quick, child-friendly breakfast with classic Canadian treats.
CAD10 per person approx, 30m

11:00am

Check-in at Great Wolf Lodge Niagara Falls

Enjoy the indoor waterpark, featuring slides and pools perfect for young children to play safely.
CAD350 per night approx, Rest of day

7:00pm

Dinner nearby at Rainforest Cafe Niagara Falls

Kids love the lively animal-themed atmosphere and menu options catering to children.
CAD30 per adult, CAD15 per child, 1h
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Day 2: Nature and Travel

Cleveland, Ohio on July 29, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Panera Bread Niagara Falls

A friendly cafe with fresh pastries and kid-friendly breakfast sets on your way out.
CAD10-15 per person, 45m

8:30am

Drive Niagara Falls to Cleveland

Approximately 3.5 hours drive crossing into the US, good to take breaks for kids.
C0, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at West Side Market Café

Historic indoor market with diverse food options and kid-friendly spots.
USD15 per adult, USD8 per child, 1h

2:00pm

Visit Cleveland Metroparks Zoo

Fun and educational zoo featuring animals, children's rides, and interactive exhibits.
USD16 per adult, USD12 per child, 3h

6:30pm

Check-in at Drury Plaza Hotel Cleveland Downtown

Comfortable hotel with family suites, free hot breakfast next day, and indoor pool.
USD160 approx per night, Rest evening

7:30pm

Dinner at Chowder Pot

Family-friendly seafood and American dishes close to the hotel.
USD25 per adult, USD12 per child, 1h
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Day 3: City Exploration

Washington, D.C. on July 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with the complimentary hot breakfast.
Included, 1h

8:00am

Drive Cleveland to Washington D.C.

Longer driving day, approximately 6.5 hours; plan to start early with stops for breaks and snacks.
C0, 6h30m

2:30pm

Arrival and check-in at Holiday Inn Washington-Capitol

Family-friendly hotel well located for attractions and with a pool for relaxation after the drive.
USD180 approx per night, Rest of day

4:00pm

Visit National Mall Playground and Nearby Monuments

A great outdoor spot for kids to run and play, with views of iconic monuments like Lincoln Memorial nearby.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Carmine's Italian Restaurant

Family-style dining with large portions, great for sharing and children-friendly environment.
USD30 per adult, USD15 per child, 1h
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Day 4: Museum Day

Washington, D.C. on July 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy breakfast included with your stay before the busy day.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

A top kid-friendly museum filled with airplanes, space exhibits, and interactive activities for all ages.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Mitsitam Native Foods Café in the National Museum of the American Indian

Unique dining experience with indigenous-inspired food suitable for curious eaters and kids.
USD20 per adult, USD10 per child, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, gems, and ocean life that will captivate children.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Founding Farmers DC

Farm-to-table restaurant known for family-friendly atmosphere and diverse menu options.
USD30 per adult, USD15 per child, 1h
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Day 5: Beach Drive

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on August 1, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with included breakfast before the drive to Myrtle Beach.
Included, 1h

8:30am

Drive Washington D.C. to Myrtle Beach

Approximate 5.5-hour drive south; plan a mid-route stop for stretching and lunch.
C0, 5h30m

2:00pm

Lunch stop in Fayetteville, NC - Chick-fil-A

Quick and kid-friendly meal break at a familiar fast food chain.
USD15 per person approx, 45m

5:00pm

Check-in at Dunes Village Resort

Beachfront resort with indoor waterpark and spacious suites perfect for children.
USD220 per night approx, Rest of day

7:00pm

Relaxed Dinner at the SkyBox Sports Bar and Grill (onsite)

Casual dining with kid-friendly selections close to your room.
USD20 per adult, USD10 per child, 1h
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Day 6: Beach Day Fun

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on August 2, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at resort

Enjoy breakfast near the pool before playing on the beach or at the waterpark.
Included with stay, 1h

10:00am

Spend the day at Myrtle Beach

Explore the sandy beach, splash in the waves, and visit playgrounds and arcades along the famous boardwalk.
Free, All day

7:00pm

Dinner at Captain George’s Seafood Restaurant

Fresh seafood with kid-friendly options and friendly staff.
USD25 per adult, USD12 per child, 1h
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Day 7: Relax & Explore

Myrtle Beach, South Carolina on August 3, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at resort

Start your last full day with a good breakfast to fuel fun activities.
Included, 1h

9:30am

Visit Ripley's Aquarium

Engage with marine life exhibits and interactive tanks that captivate young minds.
USD40 per adult, USD25 per child, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Gay Dolphin Gift Cove food court

Casual lunch in a unique shopping and entertainment complex, great for families.
USD15 per person approx, 1h

1:30pm

Mini Golf at Hawaiian Rumble

Enjoy a fun mini golf course with tropical themes that's a hit with kids.
USD12 per person, 1h30m

4:00pm

Return to resort for pool and beach relaxation

Unwind before dinner and the next day's journey.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Sea Captain's House

Oceanfront dining with a cozy atmosphere and a varied menu to please all.
USD30 per adult, USD15 per child, 1h
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Day 8: Journey Home

Drive Back to Vaughan, Ontario on August 4, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at resort

Enjoy a last morning meal at the resort before departure.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive Myrtle Beach to Vaughan

Approximate 10+ hour drive back; plan several rest stops and meals along the way for comfort.
C0, Full day travel
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