Leave Plano at 5:30pm and take a no-toll, largely scenic route (I-30 E toward Texarkana, then US routes into Shreveport) to keep driving steady and safe. This is primarily a driving leg to reach Shreveport for the night while avoiding toll roads and enjoying Texas/LA roadside scenery.
Choose a family-friendly, late-open spot near the riverfront/Youree Drive for casual food and quick service so kids can get settled (examples: a local diner or family grill). This lets you minimize evening driving and maximize time outdoors after arrival.
A relaxed, family-friendly riverfront stroll with views of the river, pedestrian paths, and open lawn space for kids to run; the area is public and free and good for a short evening outing before bed.
Grab quick, kid-friendly breakfast items (donuts, coffee, milk) to get on the road early; Southern Maid Donuts locations open early and are an easy, local choice for a quick start.
Drive south/southeast toward New Orleans using non-toll routes (I-20 east toward US highways feeding south) to maximize daylight in New Orleans and break up the trip with a rest stop en route.
Browse the French Market for a wide variety of family-friendly food and snacks that let everyone pick what they like while enjoying vibrant street scenes; market browsing is free and interactive for kids.
A lively public square with street performers, artists, and open space for kids to explore; the cathedral façade and square are free to visit and give a strong sense of New Orleans' culture.
Short walk from Jackson Square, Woldenberg Park offers riverfront greenspace, public art, and places to watch ships — highly interactive for kids who like boats and open running space.
Take the free Algiers Ferry across the Mississippi (a short, 5–10 minute ride) — the ferry is exciting for kids and gives skyline views; explore the parks on the Algiers side and return by ferry at your pace.
Crescent Park is a family-friendly riverfront linear park with playgrounds and sweeping views of the river and city skyline; it’s great for a gentle walk and photo stops as the afternoon cools.
Choose a relaxed, kid-friendly restaurant in or near the French Quarter so you can walk back to open-air evening sights; keep the evening low-key and family-oriented.
End the evening with a calm riverside stroll on the Moonwalk (riverfront boardwalk in front of Jackson Square) to let kids wind down with gentle river views and lights.
Eat an early, hearty breakfast at a family-focused spot so you can depart with energy; Mother’s Restaurant is a classic, family-friendly choice with quick service.
Have a relaxed lunch around the Pensacola Wharf or downtown where there’s a variety of family-friendly quick-service options and open spaces to let kids run.
One of the top free attractions in Pensacola: a huge, interactive aviation museum with indoor aircraft displays, flight simulators area (some simulators paid but many exhibits free), and outdoor viewing areas that fascinate kids and adults. It's engaging, hands-on-looking, and allows up-close aircraft viewing.
Explore the pedestrian-friendly, historic downtown with plazas, fountains, and open spaces; the streetscape is great for kids to explore and discover architecture and public art.
Enjoy free public beach access (sandy swimming and shelling) along Pensacola Beach public access points and the boardwalk area — swimming and sand play are interactive and exhausting-fun for families.
Pick a casual, beach-side or downtown restaurant where kids can sit outside; enjoy views and let the kids wind down after a day of museums and beach play.
Eat an early breakfast close to Destin so children have energy for a morning on the beach and the long drive home; pick a place with quick service to stay on schedule.
Short, scenic coastal drive along US-98 to Destin to maximize beach time while avoiding toll routes; travel time is easy and pleasant for kids with coastal views.
A morning on the sand at Destin’s public beaches is a free, classic family activity — swim, build sandcastles, and look for shells while the crowds are smaller and temperatures cooler.
Stroll the harbor boardwalk to watch fishing boats, watch for dolphins, and enjoy free outdoor entertainment in the family-friendly harbor area; interactive for kids who love boats and wildlife watching.
Choose a casual lunch near the harbor allowing a fast meal before the long drive home; this keeps momentum for an early departure and more comfortable travel.
Start the return leg with multiple planned rest stops (every ~2.5–3 hours) to keep the drive safe and comfortable; the planned routing will favor I-10 W then connectors toward northbound routes back to I-20 into Texas while avoiding toll roads.
Complete the final driving segment back into Plano with an expected evening arrival; plan brief comfort stops if needed but aim to arrive by night to complete the loop safely.