Start your trip by immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Santa Monica Pier. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along the iconic pier, enjoying the ocean breeze and stunning views. In the afternoon, visit Pacific Park, the amusement park located on the pier, and ride the Ferris wheel for panoramic vistas. As the evening sets in, explore the bustling Third Street Promenade, known for its shopping, dining, and street performers.
Santa Monica Pier: Cost Estimate - $10, Time Spent - 2 hours
Third Street Promenade: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Restaurants
Head to The Misfit Restaurant + Bar for a delicious breakfast in Santa Monica. This trendy spot offers a variety of options ranging from classic dishes like pancakes and omelettes to unique creations like avocado toast. With an average cost of around $15 per person, you'll start your day off right.
For lunch, grab a bite at Blue Plate Taco. This beachfront eatery serves up tasty Mexican cuisine with a California twist. From tacos to burritos, their menu has something for everyone. Expect to spend around $20 per person for a satisfying lunch.
To end your day in Santa Monica, head to FIG Restaurant. With its focus on seasonal and locally-sourced ingredients, FIG offers a farm-to-table dining experience. Indulge in dishes like roasted chicken or seared salmon with an average cost of around $40 per person for a memorable dinner.
Monday July 31: Grand Canyon, Arizona
Embark on a breathtaking day trip to the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon National Park. Start your morning with a scenic drive to the South Rim and marvel at the vastness of the canyon. Explore various viewpoints, such as Mather Point and Yavapai Observation Station. In the afternoon, take a hike along the rim or choose to go on a thrilling helicopter tour for a unique perspective of this natural wonder. End your day with a magnificent sunset view over the canyon.
Grand Canyon National Park: Cost Estimate - $35 (entrance fee), Time Spent - 6 hours
The Canyon Cafe is a cozy breakfast spot located near the Grand Canyon. Enjoy a hearty breakfast menu featuring options like fluffy pancakes and eggs benedict. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Bright Angel Restaurant is a popular lunch spot with stunning views of the canyon. Indulge in their delicious Southwestern cuisine, including dishes like Navajo tacos and green chili stew. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
El Tovar Dining Room offers an elegant dinner experience with a menu inspired by the Southwest. Dine on dishes like grilled buffalo tenderloin and cedar plank salmon, while enjoying panoramic views of the canyon. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Tuesday August 1: New York City, New York
Experience the vibrant energy of the Big Apple. Start your morning with a visit to Central Park, where you can take a leisurely stroll, rent a bike, or enjoy a picnic. In the afternoon, explore iconic landmarks such as Times Square, Empire State Building, and Statue of Liberty. As the evening comes, indulge in the Broadway experience by catching a world-class theater show.
Central Park: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3 hours
Times Square: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Empire State Building: Cost Estimate - $40, Time Spent - 2 hours
Statue of Liberty: Cost Estimate - $20 (ferry ticket), Time Spent - 4 hours
Immerse yourself in the rich culture and vibrant music scene of New Orleans. Begin your day in the French Quarter, exploring its historic streets, iconic architecture, and famous attractions like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. Indulge in the unique flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine for lunch. In the afternoon, take a steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River and enjoy live jazz music. As evening falls, experience the lively atmosphere of the famous Bourbon Street, known for its bars, clubs, and nightlife.
French Quarter: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 4 hours
Bourbon Street: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Thursday August 3: San Francisco, California
Discover the beauty of the Golden Gate City. Begin your day by visiting the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, where you can take a stroll or rent a bike for a scenic ride. Explore the fascinating neighborhoods of Chinatown and Fisherman's Wharf, where you can enjoy delicious seafood and visit the historic Ghirardelli Square. In the afternoon, take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and tour the infamous former prison. End your day by watching the sunset at Twin Peaks for panoramic views of the city.
Golden Gate Bridge: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Chinatown: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Twin Peaks: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - Evening
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in San Francisco is Mama's on Washington Square, known for their delicious brunch options and homemade pastries. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, head to The Slanted Door, a highly acclaimed Vietnamese restaurant located at the Ferry Building. Enjoy their innovative menu featuring fresh ingredients and stunning waterfront views. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
For dinner, check out The House, a quaint restaurant in North Beach known for its fusion of Asian and Latin flavors. Indulge in their creative dishes such as Asian steak tartare or ginger garlic roasted Dungeness crab. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Friday August 4: Miami, Florida
Experience the vibrant culture and beautiful beaches of Miami. Start your morning with a visit to the famous Art Deco Historic District in South Beach, known for its colorful buildings and lively atmosphere. Relax on the sandy shores and take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters of Miami Beach. In the afternoon, explore the trendy neighborhood of Wynwood, home to vibrant street art and unique galleries. As the evening sets in, indulge in the vibrant nightlife of Miami's renowned clubs and bars.
Art Deco Historic District: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Wynwood: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2 hours
Nightlife: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - Evening
Saturday August 5: Las Vegas, Nevada
Experience the glitz and glamour of the entertainment capital of the world. Start your day by exploring the famous Las Vegas Strip, admiring the iconic resorts, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. In the afternoon, visit the fascinating themed hotels such as the Bellagio with its stunning fountain show, and the Venetian with its gondola rides. As the evening approaches, catch a world-class live performance or enjoy the vibrant nightlife of the city that never sleeps.
Las Vegas Strip: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 4 hours