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Family-Friendly West Coast Adventure

Saturday, December 16: San Francisco

Start your trip in the lively city of San Francisco. In the morning, take a scenic drive across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and explore the charming waterfront neighborhood of Fisherman's Wharf. Afternoon calls for a visit to the fascinating Exploratorium, an interactive museum perfect for kids of all ages. In the evening, head to Union Square for some shopping and enjoy a cable car ride through the hilly streets.

  • Golden Gate Bridge: $0, 1 hour
  • Fisherman's Wharf: $0, 2 hours
  • Exploratorium: $30 per adult, $20 per child, 3 hours
  • Union Square: $0, 2 hours
Sunday, December 17: Yosemite

Leave San Francisco early to embark on a breathtaking adventure in Yosemite National Park. Spend the morning exploring the stunning Yosemite Valley, home to iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Afternoon is perfect for a family-friendly hike to Lower Yosemite Falls. As the evening approaches, capture the mesmerizing sunset views at Glacier Point.

  • Yosemite Valley: $35 per vehicle entrance fee, 4 hours
  • Lower Yosemite Falls: $0, 2 hours
  • Glacier Point: $0, 2 hours
Monday, December 18: Las Vegas

Take a memorable road trip to the entertainment capital, Las Vegas. In the morning, explore the famous Las Vegas Strip, marveling at the extravagant hotels and iconic landmarks like the Bellagio Fountains. In the afternoon, visit the Adventuredome, an indoor amusement park filled with thrilling rides and attractions. End the day by catching a family-friendly show like Cirque du Soleil's "Mystère".

  • Las Vegas Strip: $0, 3 hours
  • Adventuredome: $35 per person, 4 hours
  • Cirque du Soleil's "Mystère": $100 per adult, $70 per child, 2 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Death Valley

Embark on an otherworldly adventure in Death Valley National Park. In the morning, visit Badwater Basin, the lowest point in North America, and marvel at the vast salt flats. Afternoon calls for a visit to the mesmerizing Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes, where you can enjoy sandboarding or simply admire the unique landscape. End the day with a scenic drive through Artist's Drive, known for its colorful rock formations.

  • Badwater Basin: $0, 2 hours
  • Mesquite Flat Sand Dunes: $0, 2 hours
  • Artist's Drive: $0, 1 hour
Wednesday, December 20: Sedona

Experience the natural wonders of Sedona. In the morning, embark on a family-friendly hike through the stunning Red Rock State Park, admiring the vibrant red rock formations. Afternoon calls for a visit to Slide Rock State Park, where you can enjoy natural waterslides and swim in the refreshing creek. End the day with a visit to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a unique architectural gem nestled among the red rocks.

  • Red Rock State Park: $10 per vehicle, 3 hours
  • Slide Rock State Park: $20 per vehicle, 2 hours
  • Chapel of the Holy Cross: $0, 1 hour
Thursday, December 21: Grand Canyon

Embark on a grand adventure to the majestic Grand Canyon. In the morning, visit the South Rim and be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring panoramic views. Take a family-friendly hike along the rim and visit the Geology Museum to learn about the canyon's formation. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic helicopter ride for a bird's-eye view of this natural wonder. As the evening sets in, don't miss the stunning sunset over the canyon.

  • Grand Canyon South Rim: $35 per vehicle entrance fee, 4 hours
  • Helicopter ride: $250 per person, 1 hour
Friday, December 22: Los Angeles

Head to the glamorous city of Los Angeles. In the morning, explore the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and take a tour of the iconic TCL Chinese Theatre. Afternoon calls for a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood, where you can enjoy thrilling rides and immerse yourself in the magic of the movies. End the day with a relaxing stroll along Santa Monica Pier and watch the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.

  • Hollywood Walk of Fame: $0, 2 hours
  • TCL Chinese Theatre: $0, 1 hour
  • Universal Studios Hollywood: $140 per adult, $130 per child, 6 hours
  • Santa Monica Pier: $0, 2 hours
Saturday, December 23: San Diego

Conclude your adventure with a visit to the vibrant city of San Diego. In the morning, explore Balboa Park, home to numerous museums and the famous San Diego Zoo. Afternoon calls for a trip to SeaWorld, where you can enjoy exciting marine shows and interact with sea creatures. End the day by relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Coronado Island and soaking in the stunning sunset.

  • Balboa Park: $0, 3 hours
  • San Diego Zoo: $54 per adult, $44 per child, 4 hours
  • SeaWorld: $95 per adult, $90 per child, 4 hours
  • Coronado Island: $0, 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique family-friendly experience, consider visiting the Children's Discovery Museum of the Desert in Rancho Mirage, near Palm Springs. This interactive museum offers hands-on exhibits and educational programs for children of all ages. Another hidden gem is the La Brea Tar Pits in Los Angeles, where you can witness the preserved remains of prehistoric animals and participate in fossil excavation activities. Both attractions are sure to delight and educate your family during your West Coast adventure.

To check hotel and flight prices, visit KAYAK.

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