7-Day Nature Rail/Train and Road Trip on a Shoestring Budget in the USA

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, California

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Tartine Bakery

Start your day with a delicious pastry and coffee at Tartine Bakery, a local favorite known for its fresh and flavorful baked goods.
Walk or take public transportation to Tartine Bakery in the Mission District. It takes about 30 minutes.
$10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge

Enjoy a scenic stroll across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline and the bay.
Take a bus or rideshare to the Golden Gate Bridge. It takes about 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Head to Fisherman's Wharf for a seafood lunch by the waterfront, and explore the bustling pier filled with shops and attractions.
Take a bus or rideshare to Fisherman's Wharf. It takes about 30 minutes.
$15, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz Island and tour the historic prison, learning about its infamous inmates and fascinating history.
Take a ferry from Fisherman's Wharf to Alcatraz Island. It takes about 30 minutes.
$40, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Swan Oyster Depot

End the day with a meal at Swan Oyster Depot, a local institution known for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere.
Take a bus or rideshare to Swan Oyster Depot. It takes about 20 minutes.
$20, 1 hour
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Day 2: Explore More of San Francisco

San Francisco, California

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Indulge in a hearty breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square, a beloved spot known for its delicious brunch dishes.
Walk or take public transportation to Mama's on Washington Square. It takes about 30 minutes.
$15, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Explore Golden Gate Park

Spend the morning exploring the vast and beautiful Golden Gate Park, home to gardens, museums, and outdoor attractions.
Take a bus or rideshare to Golden Gate Park. It takes about 40 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Mill

Grab a casual lunch at The Mill, known for its artisanal toast and coffee, perfect for a quick bite before continuing your day.
Walk or take public transportation to The Mill. It takes about 20 minutes.
$10, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit the Painted Ladies

Take a walk to see the iconic Painted Ladies Victorian houses, a classic San Francisco sight and perfect for a photo opportunity.
Walk to the Painted Ladies. It takes about 15 minutes.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00 PM

Dinner at Tony's Pizza Napoletana

Enjoy a delicious dinner at Tony's Pizza Napoletana, known for its authentic Neapolitan-style pizzas and cozy ambiance.
Take a bus or rideshare to Tony's Pizza Napoletana. It takes about 20 minutes.
$20, 1 hour
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Day 3: Explore Yosemite National Park

Yosemite National Park, California

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge, surrounded by the natural beauty of Yosemite National Park.
Drive or take a bus to Yosemite Valley Lodge. It takes about 1 hour.
$15, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Hike to Yosemite Falls

Embark on a scenic hike to Yosemite Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in North America, and marvel at the stunning views along the way.
Take a shuttle or hike to the trailhead for Yosemite Falls. It takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Picnic Lunch at Glacier Point

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Glacier Point, overlooking the valley and iconic Half Dome rock formation, offering a breathtaking vista of the park.
Drive or take a shuttle to Glacier Point. It takes about 1 hour.
$10, 1.5 hours

4:30 PM

Explore Mariposa Grove

Visit Mariposa Grove to see the giant sequoia trees, including the famous Grizzly Giant and California Tunnel Tree, for a glimpse of ancient forests.
Drive or take a shuttle to Mariposa Grove. It takes about 45 minutes.
$5, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Majestic Yosemite Dining Room

End your day with a dinner at The Majestic Yosemite Dining Room, a historic restaurant serving up gourmet cuisine in a grand setting.
Drive or take a shuttle to The Majestic Yosemite Dining Room. It takes about 30 minutes.
$30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Continuing Yosemite Exploration

Yosemite National Park, California

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Degnan's Kitchen

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at Degnan's Kitchen, a cozy spot offering a variety of breakfast options to fuel your day of exploration.
Walk or take a shuttle to Degnan's Kitchen. It takes about 15 minutes.
$10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hike to Vernal Fall

Embark on a challenging yet rewarding hike to Vernal Fall, experiencing the misty spray and impressive views along the Mist Trail.
Take a shuttle or hike to the trailhead for Vernal Fall. It takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Curry Village Pavilion

Enjoy a casual lunch at Curry Village Pavilion, a laid-back spot offering quick bites and refreshments amidst the park's natural beauty.
Walk or take a shuttle to Curry Village Pavilion. It takes about 20 minutes.
$10, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Bike Rental at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Rent a bike from Yosemite Valley Lodge and explore the park on two wheels, taking in the sights and sounds of nature at your own pace.
Walk or take a shuttle to Yosemite Valley Lodge for bike rental. It takes about 15 minutes.
$20, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at El Cid Mexican Cuisine

End your day with a flavorful dinner at El Cid Mexican Cuisine, a local favorite known for its authentic Mexican dishes and vibrant atmosphere.
Walk or take a shuttle to El Cid Mexican Cuisine. It takes about 10 minutes.
$15, 1 hour
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Day 5: Grand Canyon Exploration

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Bright Angel Restaurant

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Bright Angel Restaurant, offering classic American dishes with a view of the Grand Canyon.
Drive or take a shuttle to Bright Angel Restaurant. It takes about 30 minutes.
$15, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Hike the South Kaibab Trail

Embark on a memorable hike along the South Kaibab Trail, offering stunning panoramic views of the Grand Canyon's unique rock formations.
Take a shuttle or hike to the South Kaibab Trailhead. It takes about 20 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at El Tovar Dining Room

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at El Tovar Dining Room, a historic restaurant with a rustic charm and delicious regional cuisine to savor.
Walk or take a shuttle to El Tovar Dining Room. It takes about 15 minutes.
$20, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Visit Desert View Watchtower

Explore the Desert View Watchtower for panoramic views of the Grand Canyon and learn about the indigenous cultures that influenced its design.
Drive or take a shuttle to Desert View Watchtower. It takes about 45 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Dinner at Plaza Bonita

End your day with a flavorful dinner at Plaza Bonita, a Mexican restaurant offering a variety of dishes in a relaxed setting.
Walk or take a shuttle to Plaza Bonita. It takes about 15 minutes.
$15, 1 hour
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Day 6: Zion National Park Adventure

Zion National Park, Utah

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Oscar's Cafe

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Oscar's Cafe, a local favorite known for its delicious breakfast burritos and cozy atmosphere.
Drive or take a shuttle to Oscar's Cafe. It takes about 15 minutes.
$10, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Hike The Narrows

Embark on a thrilling hike through The Narrows, wading through the Virgin River amidst towering canyon walls and stunning natural beauty.
Take a shuttle or hike to The Narrows trailhead. It takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 4 hours

2:00 PM

Picnic Lunch at Canyon Overlook Trail

Enjoy a scenic picnic lunch at Canyon Overlook Trail, offering sweeping views of Zion Canyon and the surrounding red rock formations.
Drive or take a shuttle to Canyon Overlook Trail. It takes about 30 minutes.
$10, 1.5 hours

4:00 PM

Explore Zion Canyon Scenic Drive

Take a leisurely drive along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive, stopping at viewpoints and enjoying the natural beauty of the park at your own pace.
Drive along Zion Canyon Scenic Drive. It takes about 1 hour.
Free, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.

End your day with a casual dinner at Zion Pizza & Noodle Co., a local spot known for its delicious pizzas and pasta dishes.
Drive or take a shuttle to Zion Pizza & Noodle Co. It takes about 15 minutes.
$15, 1 hour
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Day 7: Yellowstone National Park Exploration

Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Old Faithful Inn Dining Room

Start your day with breakfast at Old Faithful Inn Dining Room, a historic lodge serving up hearty breakfast options with a view of Old Faithful.
Drive or take a shuttle to Old Faithful Inn Dining Room. It takes about 30 minutes.
$20, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Watch Old Faithful Geyser Eruption

Witness the iconic eruption of Old Faithful Geyser, a natural wonder that delights visitors with its predictable and impressive displays.
Walk or take a shuttle to the Old Faithful viewing area. It takes about 15 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Yellowstone Lake Hotel Dining Room

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Yellowstone Lake Hotel Dining Room, a historic dining spot offering classic dishes and stunning views of the lake.
Drive or take a shuttle to Yellowstone Lake Hotel Dining Room. It takes about 45 minutes.
$25, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Grand Prismatic Spring

Visit the colorful Grand Prismatic Spring, one of Yellowstone's most famous thermal features, known for its vibrant hues and unique geothermal activity.
Drive or take a shuttle to Grand Prismatic Spring. It takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Drive to Yellowstone Falls

Take a scenic drive to Yellowstone Falls, a majestic waterfall located in the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, for stunning views and photo opportunities.
Drive to Yellowstone Falls. It takes about 1 hour.
Free, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room

End your day with dinner at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room, offering a diverse menu in a historic setting near the park's famous terraces.
Drive or take a shuttle to Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room. It takes about 45 minutes.
$30, 1.5 hours
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