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Ultimate 7-Day Road Trip Across America
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Ultimate 7-Day Road Trip Across America
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Day 1: Exploring The Big Apple
New York, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Balthazar
Start your day with a classic French breakfast at Balthazar, renowned for its pastries and warm ambiance.
Located in SoHo, easily accessible by subway or walk.
USD30, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit the Statue of Liberty
Catch a ferry from Battery Park to explore the iconic Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.
Walk to Battery Park from the restaurant.
USD20, 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Joe's Pizza
Enjoy a classic New York slice at Joe's Pizza, famous for its thin crust and delicious toppings.
A short drive or subway ride back to Greenwich Village.
USD15, 1 hour
2:00PM
Explore Central Park
Stroll through the sprawling paths of Central Park, with plenty of spots for photos and people-watching.
Drive or take a subway to Central Park.
Free, 2 hours
4:30PM
Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Immerse yourself in art from around the world at this iconic museum.
Walk from Central Park to the MET.
USD25, 2 hours
7:00PM
Dinner at Keens Steakhouse
Savour a mouth-watering steak at Keens Steakhouse, famous for its historic ambiance and rich history.
Drive or take a taxi to Midtown.
USD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in New York
Day 2: Philly Cheesesteaks and History
Philadelphia, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Green Eggs Café
Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a twist, featuring delicious pancakes and eggs cooked to perfection.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from NYC to Philadelphia.
USD25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit the Liberty Bell
See the iconic Liberty Bell and learn about its significance in American history.
Walk to the Independence National Historical Park nearby.
Free, 1 hour
11:00AM
Explore Independence Hall
Tour Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution were debated and adopted.
Located right next to the Liberty Bell.
Free, 1 hour
12:30PM
Lunch at Pat's King of Steaks
Sample an authentic Philly cheesesteak at this legendary eatery, a favourite among locals and tourists alike.
A short taxi ride or walk from Independence Hall.
USD12, 1 hour
2:00PM
Tour the Philadelphia Museum of Art
Visit the famous museum featuring an extensive collection of art from the U.S. and across the globe.
Drive or take a short taxi ride.
USD20, 2 hours
4:30PM
Run Up the Rocky Steps
Channel your inner Rocky and run up the famous steps outside the museum for a memorable photo op.
Right in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Free, 30 minutes
6:00PM
Dinner at The Dandelion
Enjoy a British-inspired dinner with a focus on locally sourced ingredients at this charming pub.
A short drive or walk from the museum.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Philadelphia
Day 3: Capital City Adventures
Washington D.C., USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Founding Farmers
Kick off your day with a farm-to-table breakfast featuring fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Drive approximately 2 hours from Philadelphia to D.C.
USD25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Explore the National Mall
Wander around the National Mall, taking in iconic monuments like the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.
Walk from the restaurant to the National Mall.
Free, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill
Enjoy a classic D.C. lunch with a wide selection of seafood and American dishes in historical surroundings.
A short walk from the National Mall.
USD35, 1 hour
1:30PM
Visit the Smithsonian Museums
Enjoy the vast collection of art and history at the Smithsonians, including the Air and Space Museum.
Easily accessible and walking distance from lunch.
Free, 3 hours
5:00PM
Tour the U.S. Capitol
Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol, learning about the legislative process and the building's history.
Walk from the Smithsonian Museums to the Capitol.
Free, 1 hour
7:00PM
Dinner at The Capital Grille
Indulge in a fine dining experience with dry-aged steaks and an expansive wine list.
A short taxi ride or walk away.
USD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Washington D.C.
Day 4: Nature Escape
Shenandoah National Park, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Skyland
Enjoy a scenic breakfast with stunning views over the Blue Ridge Mountains.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from D.C. to Shenandoah.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Hiking in Shenandoah
Hike along iconic trails such as Old Rag or Hawksbill for breathtaking views and natural beauty.
Access trails from the park entrance.
USD30 for park entry, 3 hours
1:00PM
Picnic Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy amidst nature, surrounded by the calming sounds of the forest.
Bring your lunch or purchase nearby.
USD10, 1 hour
2:00PM
Scenic Drive along Skyline Drive
Take a leisurely drive along Skyline Drive, stopping at overlooks for stunning views.
Follow signs in the park to Skyline Drive.
Free with park entry, 2 hours
4:30PM
Relaxing at Big Meadows
Unwind in the tranquil setting of Big Meadows, an excellent spot for birdwatching and tranquility.
Drive to Big Meadows area within the park.
Free, 1 hour
6:00PM
Dinner at The Pollock Dining Room
Dine on locally sourced dishes at The Pollock Dining Room, enjoying the park's natural ambience.
Return to Skyland for dinner.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Shenandoah National Park
Day 5: Southern Charm
Charlottesville, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at The Nook
Relish a delightful breakfast with creative dishes and a charming atmosphere.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Shenandoah to Charlottesville.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Monticello
Tour Thomas Jefferson's historic plantation home and explore the beautiful gardens and slave quarters.
A short drive from the restaurant to Monticello.
USD30, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at The Local
Savor locally sourced dishes at The Local, showcasing the best of Virginia's cuisine.
Drive back to downtown Charlottesville.
USD25, 1 hour
1:30PM
Explore the Downtown Mall
Stroll along this pedestrian mall filled with shops, galleries, and historical landmarks.
Right next to The Local for convenience.
Free, 2 hours
4:00PM
Wine Tasting at Jefferson Vineyards
Enjoy a relaxing wine tasting experience surrounded by scenic views of the vineyard and mountains.
A short drive from downtown.
USD15, 2 hours
6:30PM
Dinner at Oakhurst Inn & Restaurant
Dine at this charming hotel with a seasonal menu with locally grown ingredients.
Drive back towards the city centre.
USD35, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Charlottesville
Day 6: Historic Richmond
Richmond, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Perly's
Enjoy a delicious Jewish deli breakfast featuring bagels and smoked fish.
Drive approximately 1 hour from Charlottesville to Richmond.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit the Virginia State Capitol
Tour the historic Virginia State Capitol designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Short drive from the restaurant to the Capitol.
Free, 1 hour
11:00AM
Explore Monument Avenue
Visit the iconic statues along Monument Avenue while learning about Richmond's rich history.
Take a short drive down Monument Avenue.
Free, 1 hour
12:30PM
Lunch at Mama J's Kitchen
Indulge in Southern comfort food with dishes like fried chicken and collard greens.
Drive to Mama J's Kitchen.
USD15, 1 hour
2:00PM
Visit the American Civil War Museum
Explore exhibits detailing the impact of the Civil War on American history and culture.
A short drive from the restaurant.
USD15, 2 hours
4:30PM
Walk along the Canal Walk
Take a relaxing walk along Richmond’s historic Canal Walk, featuring water views and public art.
Drive to the start of Canal Walk.
Free, 1 hour
6:00PM
Dinner at The Roosevelt
Dine at this upscale restaurant known for its focus on Southern cuisine with a modern twist.
A short drive or walk to The Roosevelt.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Richmond
Day 7: Beach Bliss
Virginia Beach, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Tautog's Restaurant
Savor a tasty breakfast with a fresh seafood twist at this beachside favourite.
Drive approximately 2 hours from Richmond to Virginia Beach.
USD25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Relax at Virginia Beach
Spend the morning soaking up the sun and taking a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean.
Walk to the beach from the restaurant.
Free, 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Waterman's Surfside Grille
Enjoy lunch with an ocean view, featuring delicious seafood options and local craft beer.
Located right on the beachfront.
USD35, 1.5 hours
2:30PM
Visit the Virginia Aquarium
Explore marine life exhibits and take part in interactive experiences.
A short drive from the beach area.
USD25, 2 hours
4:30PM
Try Watersports
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy the calm waters of the ocean or bay.
Various rental locations around the beach.
USD50, 2 hours
7:00PM
Dinner at Captain George's Seafood Restaurant
End your road trip with a feast of fresh seafood at this popular dining destination.
A short drive back toward the beachfront.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Virginia Beach
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Trip Packing List: Dublin, Ireland — Mar 14–21, 2026
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Trip Packing List: Dublin, Ireland — Mar 14–21, 2026
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Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
August 11, 2024
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