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12-Day Scenic and Cultural Road Trip Across the USA

Viewed by 63 travelers

Day 1: New York City Arrival

New York City, USA on July 29, 2025

8:30AM

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Enjoy a classic New York-style bagel with cream cheese at this popular spot in Midtown, perfect for a quick and tasty start to your day.
USD8, 0h30m

9:30AM

Central Park Walk and Strawberry Fields

Stroll through Central Park starting at the south entrance, visit the serene Strawberry Fields memorial to John Lennon, and soak in the greenery amid the bustling city.
Free, 2h00m

11:30AM

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Explore one of the world's largest and finest art museums, housing vast collections from ancient to modern times. Open daily 10AM-5:30PM.
USD30, 2h00m

2:00PM

Lunch at Shake Shack – Madison Square Park

Try a classic American burger and fries at the original Shake Shack location with a pleasant park setting.
USD15, 1h00m

3:30PM

Visit Times Square

Experience the iconic bright lights, billboards, and vibrant atmosphere of Times Square, a must-see for first-time visitors.
Free, 1h00m

5:00PM

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Get spectacular panoramic views of Manhattan from Rockefeller Center’s observation deck. Open until 11PM. Ticket needed.
USD40, 1h30m

7:00PM

Dinner at Carmine's Italian Restaurant

Enjoy hearty family-style Italian dishes in a lively setting near Times Square, open till 11PM.
USD40, 1h30m
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Day 2: Washington D.C. History

Washington, D.C., USA on July 30, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Start your day with farm-to-table breakfast dishes served in a comfortable setting, open from 7AM.
USD20, 1h00m

8:30AM

Travel to Washington D.C. via Amtrak train

Enjoy a comfortable and scenic train ride from New York Penn Station to Washington Union Station, approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes.
USD100, 3h30m

12:30PM

National Mall - Visit Smithsonian Museums

Explore the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of American History, both free and open from 10AM to 5:30PM.
Free, 3h00m

3:30PM

Visit Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool

Walk around these iconic monuments to American history just west of the National Mall, open 24 hours.
Free, 1h00m

5:00PM

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Dine at Washington's oldest saloon with classic American dishes, open until 10PM.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 3: Music in Nashville

Nashville, USA on July 31, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love Gulch

Savour southern-style biscuits and breakfast classics with a modern twist, open from 7AM.
USD15, 1h00m

8:00AM

Flight from Washington D.C. to Nashville

Take a morning flight of about 2 hours from D.C. to Nashville International Airport.
USD150, 2h00m

11:00AM

Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum

Dive deep into the history of country music through interactive exhibits and memorabilia. Open 10AM-5PM.
USD30, 2h00m

1:30PM

Lunch at Hattie B's Hot Chicken

Experience Nashville’s famous spicy fried chicken, open until 9PM.
USD15, 1h00m

3:00PM

Walk along Broadway

Explore the vibrant street known for its live music bars, shops and historic honky-tonks.
Free, 2h00m

6:00PM

Dinner at The Southern Steak & Oyster

Enjoy upscale southern cuisine with fresh oysters in a lively environment, open till 10PM.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 4: New Orleans Culture

New Orleans, USA on August 1, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe du Monde

Enjoy the famous beignets and chicory coffee at this iconic French Quarter cafe, open 24 hours.
USD10, 0h45m

8:30AM

Flight from Nashville to New Orleans

Fly approximately 1.5 hours to experience the unique culture and cuisine of New Orleans.
USD120, 1h30m

10:30AM

French Quarter Walking Tour

Explore historic architecture, street performers, and local shops on a guided or self-guided tour. Best in morning to avoid crowds.
USD25, 2h00m

1:00PM

Lunch at Coop's Place

Sample authentic Cajun and Creole dishes in a casual setting, open till 10PM.
USD20, 1h00m

2:30PM

Visit the National WWII Museum

One of the top-rated museums in the US with engaging exhibits about WWII history. Open 9AM-5PM.
USD30, 2h00m

5:00PM

Dinner at Commander's Palace

Enjoy fine Creole cuisine at this historic New Orleans restaurant, requiring reservations, open till 10PM.
USD60, 2h00m
Find Hotels in New Orleans

Day 5: Austin Vibes

Austin, USA on August 2, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Jo's Coffee

Start your day with artisan coffee and breakfast tacos, open from 7AM.
USD10, 0h45m

8:30AM

Flight from New Orleans to Austin

A short 1.5-hour flight brings you to the lively music and cultural scene of Austin.
USD110, 1h30m

10:30AM

Visit the Texas State Capitol

Tour the historic capitol building with free guided tours available, open 8AM-7PM.
Free, 1h00m

12:00PM

Lunch at Franklin Barbecue

Experience one of the best BBQ spots in the US, famous for smoked brisket; arrive early as it sells out fast.
USD25, 1h00m

2:00PM

Explore South Congress Avenue

Stroll this vibrant area filled with quirky shops, street art, and live music venues.
Free, 2h00m

5:00PM

Dinner at Uchi

Enjoy innovative Japanese cuisine and sushi in a sophisticated setting, open till 10PM.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 6: Santa Fe Arts

Santa Fe, USA on August 3, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Classic American breakfast near the Santa Fe Plaza, serving hearty dishes daily from 7AM.
USD15, 1h00m

8:30AM

Drive from Austin to Santa Fe

A scenic 10-hour drive passing through Texas and New Mexico; consider breaks and overnight stops or a flight alternative.
USD120 (fuel/stop costs estimate), 10h00m

6:30PM

Dinner at The Shed

Enjoy traditional New Mexican cuisine featuring red and green chile dishes, located near the plaza, open till 9PM.
USD35, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Santa Fe

Day 7: Grand Canyon Adventure

Grand Canyon, USA on August 4, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Pasqual's

Artisan and organic breakfast options in Santa Fe, open from 7AM.
USD20, 1h00m

8:30AM

Drive from Santa Fe to Grand Canyon South Rim

Experience the breathtaking 6.5-hour drive through New Mexico and Arizona into the natural wonder of the Grand Canyon.
USD60 (park entrance fee + fuel estimate), 6h30m

3:30PM

Visit Grand Canyon Visitor Centre & Rim Trail

Explore exhibits and take an easy walk along the South Rim trail for stunning views, open 8AM to sunset.
Included in park entrance, 2h00m

6:00PM

Dinner at El Tovar Dining Room

Enjoy dinner with canyon views at this historic lodge restaurant, open till 9PM.
USD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Grand Canyon

Day 8: Vegas Nightlife

Las Vegas, USA on August 5, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel

A convenient breakfast option close to the Grand Canyon, serving classic American fare from 7AM.
USD15, 1h00m

8:30AM

Drive from Grand Canyon to Las Vegas

A 4.5-hour drive leaving the natural landscapes behind and entering the bustling entertainment capital.
USD40 (fuel estimate), 4h30m

1:00PM

Check-in and lunch at The Venetian’s Grand Lux Cafe

Enjoy diverse menu options in the luxury resort environment, open till late.
USD30, 1h00m

2:30PM

Explore the Las Vegas Strip

Walk along the famous Strip, visit iconic casinos, and take photos of fountains and themed hotels.
Free, 3h00m

6:00PM

Dinner at Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen

Experience upscale dining with dishes inspired by the popular TV series, reservations recommended, open till 10PM.
USD70, 1h30m

8:00PM

See a Cirque du Soleil Show - 'O'

Enjoy a spectacular aquatic themed circus show at Bellagio, with performances usually at 7PM and 9:30PM.
USD120, 2h00m
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Day 9: San Francisco Sights

San Francisco, USA on August 6, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Bouchon Bakery

Start your day with French pastries and coffee, located in the Venetian before travel, opens at 7AM.
USD15, 0h45m

8:30AM

Flight from Las Vegas to San Francisco

Fly 1.5 hours to the beautiful Bay Area, taking in the city’s famous landmarks.
USD100, 1h30m

10:30AM

Visit Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39

Explore the lively waterfront with shops, restaurants, and sea lions, open daily.
Free, 2h00m

12:30PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery Cafe

Taste the famous San Francisco sourdough and clam chowder in a bread bowl, located at Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD20, 1h00m

2:00PM

Golden Gate Bridge and Park

Drive or cycle across the iconic bridge and visit the adjoining parks offering spectacular views.
Free, 2h00m

5:00PM

Dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House

Enjoy fresh seafood with bay views at this popular Wharf restaurant open till 9PM.
USD50, 1h30m
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 10: Los Angeles Highlights

Los Angeles, USA on August 7, 2025

7:00AM

Breakfast at Tartine Manufactory

Delicious breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee, open from 7AM before your flight.
USD20, 0h45m

8:30AM

Flight from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Short 1-hour flight to LA to explore Hollywood and nearby beaches.
USD100, 1h00m

10:00AM

Hollywood Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre

Walk along the world-famous stars embedded in sidewalks and see celebrity handprints in front of the historic theatre.
Free, 2h00m

12:30PM

Lunch at Musso & Frank Grill

Dine at a classic Hollywood restaurant known for its steak and history, open till 11PM.
USD40, 1h30m

2:30PM

Visit Griffith Observatory and Park

Enjoy free public telescopes and panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood Sign, open 12PM-10PM.
Free, 2h00m

5:00PM

Dinner at Nobu Malibu

Savour world-renowned Japanese cuisine with ocean views, reservations recommended, open till 10PM.
USD80, 2h00m
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 11: Beach and Relax

Santa Monica, USA on August 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Organic coffee and healthy breakfast options set in a comfortable beachside Café, open from 7AM.
USD20, 1h00m

9:30AM

Santa Monica Pier and Beach

Relax at the sandy beach, enjoy the amusement park and ocean views. The pier is open all day.
Free, 3h00m

12:30PM

Lunch at The Albright

Fresh seafood and light meals right on the pier, open for lunch from 11AM.
USD30, 1h00m

2:00PM

Bike ride along the beach path to Venice Beach

Rent bikes and ride along the scenic beachfront path to lively Venice Beach for street performances and shops.
USD15 (bike rental), 2h00m

5:00PM

Dinner at Gjelina

Trendy spot offering Californian seasonal cuisine in Venice, open till 10PM.
USD45, 1h30m
Find Hotels in Santa Monica

Day 12: Departure Day

Los Angeles, USA on August 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Famous for oversized pancakes and hearty breakfast dishes, open from 7AM.
USD20, 1h00m

10:00AM

Last minute shopping at The Grove

Enjoy open-air shopping and maybe catch a glimpse of celebrities, open 10AM-9PM.
Free to explore, 2h00m

12:30PM

Travel to Los Angeles International Airport

Arrive early for your international flight home or onward journey.
USD50 (taxi/Uber estimate), 1h00m
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
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