Shoestring Budget Road Trip: Hoover Dam to Zion National Park

Day 1: Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Start your day with a budget-friendly breakfast featuring their famous pancakes.
From Las Vegas, drive 30 minutes southeast to Hoover Dam via US-93.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Hoover Dam

Explore the marvel of engineering, learning about its history with views of the Colorado River.
Walk around the dam and take in the views from the observation deck.
USD10, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Bridge Cafe

Enjoy a hearty sandwich at this cozy spot nearby with lovely views.
Head 15 minutes south to the café in Boulder City.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Drive to Williams

Enjoy the scenic drive through the desert landscape as you make your way to Williams.
Take I-40 E for about 2 hours.
USD30 (Fuel), 2 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Williams Main Street

Check out the historic Route 66 attractions and quirky shops.
Walk along historic Route 66; everything is within walking distance.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Cruiser’s Route 66 Cafe

Relish an affordable diner-style meal featuring classic American fare.
Located right on Route 66.
USD12, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Rest at a Local Motel

Find a budget motel or hostel to spend the night in Williams.
Various options along Route 66.
USD60, Overnight
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Day 2: Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at The Historic Red Garter Inn

Grab a breakfast burrito before heading to the Grand Canyon.
Short stroll away in Williams.
USD8, 30 minutes

8:00 AM

Drive to Grand Canyon Village

Head towards the South Rim for breathtaking views.
Take AZ-64 N for about 1 hour.
USD30 (Park fee included), 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Grand Canyon National Park

Walk along the rim trails for stunning vistas and photo opportunities.
Start from the Visitor Center and choose paths that interest you.
Included in park fee, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at El Tovar Dining Room

Enjoy lunch with canyon views and a variety of delicious options.
Located within the canyon area.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Hike a short trail

Experience the canyon up-close by hiking along the Bright Angel Trail.
Trailhead is near the Visitor Center.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Williams

Take in the scenic views on your way back to Williams.
Drive back on AZ-64 and I-40 W.
USD30 (Fuel), 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Dell's Pizza

Grab some affordable slices to refuel after a long day.
Located in Williams' downtown.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00 PM

Rest in the Motel

Relax and recharge for the upcoming adventure.
Your same lodging from last night.
USD60, Overnight
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Day 3: Horseshoe Bend

Page, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at 2 Sisters Cafe

Indulge in a homemade breakfast at this charming local cafe.
Five-minute walk from your motel.
USD12, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Horseshoe Bend

Head to Page to witness this stunning geological wonder.
Take I-40 E and US-89 N for approximately 1.5 hours.
USD30 (Fuel), 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Visit Horseshoe Bend

Enjoy breathtaking views of this iconic bend in the Colorado River.
Short hike from the parking lot.
USD10 (Parking fee), 1 hour

11:30 AM

Lunch at Big John's Texas BBQ

Try some finger-licking BBQ at this popular local spot.
Head back towards Page.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Antelope Canyon X Tour

Join a tour through this scenic slot canyon, renowned for its stunning light beams.
Meet your tour group at the designated location in Page.
USD50, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Explore Lake Powell

Take in the gorgeous views and, if time allows, relax by the water.
Drive to Lake Powell Overlook.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Drive to Bryce Canyon

Head to Bryce Canyon for some incredible nighttime views.
Drive for about 2.5 hours via US-89 S.
USD35 (Fuel), 2.5 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Bryce Canyon Pines

Savor a warm meal at this cozy restaurant known for its pies.
Located right by Bryce Canyon.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00 PM

Rest at Budget Lodging

Look for a budget-friendly motel or lodge nearby.
Multiple options available near Bryce.
USD70, Overnight
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Day 4: Bryce Canyon

Bryce Canyon, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Ruby's Inn

Grab a hearty breakfast to fuel your day of exploration.
Conveniently located next to your lodging.
USD12, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Explore Bryce Canyon National Park

Walk among the towering hoodoos and take in the stunning landscapes.
Drive into the park; various viewpoints and trails available.
USD30 (Park fee included), 3 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Bryce Canyon Visitor Center

Learn more about the park's geology and ecology.
Stop by on your way out of the park.
Free, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at Bryce Canyon Lodge

Enjoy lunch with a view near the park entrance.
Short drive back towards the lodge.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Drive to Zion National Park

Journey to Zion for more breathtaking views.
Located about 2 hours away via UT-12 E.
USD35 (Fuel), 2 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Zion National Park

Begin your adventure with a walk along the Riverside Walk or Emerald Pools.
Follow the main road to the designated trails.
USD30 (Park fee included), 2 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Zion Pizza & Noodle Co.

Grab a quick bite in Springdale before settling in.
Easily accessible at the entrance of the park.
USD15, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Rest at a Springdale Inn

Find budget accommodation close to Zion National Park.
Explore various options before settling on one.
USD75, Overnight
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Day 5: Zion National Park

Zion National Park, USA

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Cafe Soleil

Enjoy a delicious breakfast with locally sourced ingredients.
Located in Springdale, just outside the park.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Hike the Narrows

Embark on an unforgettable hike in the Virgin River’s spectacular canyon.
Starting point is near the Visitor Center in Zion.
Free, 3 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at Zion Canyon Brew Pub

Relax at this casual pub with tasty burgers and salads.
Located near the park entrance.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore the Angels Landing Trail

Challenge yourself with this iconic trail, known for its views.
Trailhead starts at the Grotto parking area.
Free, 4 hours

5:00 PM

Return to Springdale

Head back to your lodging after a thrilling day of hiking.
Drive back to Springdale.
USD5 (Fuel), 15 minutes

5:30 PM

Dinner at Spotted Dog Cafe

End your day with a delicious meal at this charming restaurant.
Just a short walk from your accommodations.
USD20, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Rest at Springdale Inn

Get a good night's sleep for your final adventure.
Return to your lodging.
USD75, Overnight
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Day 6: Return to Las Vegas

Las Vegas, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hash House A Go Go

Eat their famous breakfast for a filling start before you hit the road.
Located near the park entrance; drive time is quick.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive back to Las Vegas

Return your vehicle and enjoy the desert views along the way.
Follow I-15 N; journey takes around 2.5 hours.
USD35 (Fuel), 2.5 hours

11:30 AM

Lunch at the Food Court of The LINQ

Choose from various budget-friendly options for a great variety.
Located in Las Vegas Strip.
USD12, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Explore The Strip

Take a stroll down Las Vegas Boulevard to see the famous casinos and attractions.
Walk along The Strip; many points of interest are free.
Free, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Fremont Street Experience

Venture to this iconic area for street performances and vibrant lights.
Take the bus or a short Uber ride.
USD5 (Public transport), 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Heart Attack Grill

Enjoy some novelty dining with hearty portions that will fill you up.
Located in Downtown Vegas.
USD20, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Rest in Las Vegas Hostel

Opt for a dorm room at a budget-friendly hostel to save money.
Multiple options around the Strip.
USD30, Overnight
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Day 7: Last Day in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast to prepare for your departure.
Conveniently located near your hostel.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Red Rock Canyon

Take a scenic drive or a short hike to enjoy the stunning red rock formations.
Expect about 30 minutes to drive there.
USD15 (Park fee), 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at the Las Vegas Natural History Museum Cafe

Enjoy a quick lunch while learning about local natural history.
Short drive or public transit to the museum.
USD12, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Final Shopping at Outlets

Browse deals at the Las Vegas North Premium Outlets before heading home.
Drive or take a shuttle to the outlets.
Free (unless purchasing), 2 hours

3:00 PM

Head to the Airport

Conclude your adventure by returning your rental and catching your flight.
Transit to the airport via shuttle.
USD15 (Transport), 1 hour
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