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Epic 14-Day Road Trip to the Badlands, South Dakota from Folkston, GA

Viewed by 58 travelers

Day 1: Travel to Montgomery

Montgomery, AL

8:00AM

Depart to Montgomery

Start your exciting road trip early as you hit the road from Folkston, directing your GPS to Montgomery, AL.
Drive along US-84 W and I-65 N.
USD150, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Dreamland BBQ

Savor delicious Memphis-style BBQ ribs at Dreamland BBQ, a local favorite.
Located in Montgomery, a short drive from your lodging.
USD25, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Montgomery

Visit the Civil Rights Memorial and learn about the rich history of Montgomery.
Free parking available nearby.
USD0, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cotton Patch

Enjoy a hearty Southern meal at The Cotton Patch, famous for its shrimp and grits.
Within walking distance from the day's attractions.
USD30, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Hotel Check-in

Relax and recharge at the Holiday Inn Express, a comfortable choice for the night.
Located in downtown Montgomery.
USD150, 30 min
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Day 2: Journey to Memphis

Memphis, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I Cafe

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast featuring pancakes and eggs before the road trip to Memphis.
Less than 10 minutes from hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Memphis

Hit the road to Memphis, where the blues come alive.
Follow I-65 N and I-40 W for a smooth journey.
USD70, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Treat yourself to some mouth-watering fried chicken at this legendary spot.
Located downtown Memphis.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Beale Street

Stroll down Beale Street, soaking in live music and vibrant culture.
Easy walking access with plenty of nearby attractions.
USD0, 2 hours

4:00PM

Explore Graceland

Visit the legendary home of Elvis Presley and learn about his incredible legacy.
Short drive from Beale Street.
USD50, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Rendezvous

Enjoy famous dry rub ribs at this iconic Memphis restaurant.
Not far from Graceland.
USD30, 1.5 hours

9:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Rest easy at the Hampton Inn Memphis, conveniently located.
Near downtown Memphis.
USD150, 30 min
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Day 3: From Memphis to Little Rock

Little Rock, AR

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Plate Cafe

Indulge in a hearty Southern breakfast to start your day.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Little Rock

Drive towards Little Rock, where history and culture meet.
Take I-40 W for a straightforward route.
USD50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Root Cafe

Enjoy locally sourced dishes at this charming cafe in Little Rock.
Central location in the city.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Little Rock Central High School

Explore the historic site of school desegregation and learn about its significance.
Short drive or walk from lunch.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Walk at Riverfront Park

Enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Arkansas River.
Nearby the Central High School.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Cache Restaurant

Dine at Cache for an exquisite meal featuring steak and seafood.
Located downtown Little Rock.
USD40, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Wind down at La Quinta Inn & Suites, offering comfortable stays.
Less than 10 minutes from dinner venue.
USD120, 30 min
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Day 4: Onward to Oklahoma City

Oklahoma City, OK

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mylo Coffee Co.

Sip on craft coffee and pastries before hitting the road.
Local favorite coffee shop.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Oklahoma City

Head west toward Oklahoma City, known for its cowboy culture.
Take I-40 W for a direct route.
USD50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Oklahoma City National Memorial

Pay your respects at the poignant memorial dedicated to those affected by the 1995 bombing.
Located near the city center.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Bricktown Brewery

Grab a bite at this popular eatery with a vibrant atmosphere.
Just a short walk from the memorial.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Bricktown Entertainment District

Stroll through the charming canals, shops, and art galleries of Bricktown.
Easy access from lunch spot.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Cattlemen's Steakhouse

Experience a delectable steak dinner at this historic venue.
Located in the Stockyards City.
USD40, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax at the Holiday Inn Express near the city center.
Close to your dining venue.
USD130, 30 min
Find Hotels in Oklahoma City

Day 5: Traveling to Amarillo

Amarillo, TX

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Start with a fulfilling breakfast at The Pantry before departing.
Conveniently located.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Amarillo

Set off to Amarillo, where the Texas Panhandle awaits.
Follow I-40 W for a direct route.
USD50, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at The Big Texan Steak Ranch

Try the famous 72 oz. steak challenge or enjoy a regular meal.
An iconic dining destination.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit Cadillac Ranch

Stop by this unique outdoor art installation composed of classic Cadillacs.
A short drive from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Route 66 Historic District

Stroll along the historic Route 66 and check out vintage shops and galleries.
Easily walkable from your car.
USD0, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Pappasito's Cantina

Savor Mexican cuisine in a lively atmosphere to end your day.
Located in the Texas Panhandle.
USD35, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Rest well at Fairfield Inn & Suites, a comfortable stop for the night.
Only a few minutes from the dining venue.
USD120, 30 min
Find Hotels in Amarillo

Day 6: Journey to Lubbock

Lubbock, TX

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Donut Stop

Grab a quick breakfast at this local donut shop.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD10, 30 min

9:00AM

Drive to Lubbock

Head towards Lubbock, famed for its musical heritage.
Take US-84 W for the journey.
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Visit Buddy Holly Center

Explore the life and legacy of rock 'n' roll icon Buddy Holly.
Conveniently located downtown.
USD10, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Caprock Cafe

Enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere.
Not far from the Buddy Holly Center.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Texas Tech University Museum

Discover art and artifacts in this cultural hub at Texas Tech.
Short drive from lunch spot.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Dinner at The Plaza Restaurant

Enjoy local flavors in a cozy setting.
Close by the university.
USD25, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax at the Hilton Garden Inn after a day of exploration.
Located conveniently in Lubbock.
USD130, 30 min
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Day 7: Santa Fe Ahead

Santa Fe, NM

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Spot

Savor a delicious breakfast at this cozy coffee shop.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Santa Fe

Depart for Santa Fe, known for its Pueblo-style architecture.
Follow US-84 W for a scenic route.
USD40, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

Explore the stunning artworks of renowned artist Georgia O'Keeffe.
Located downtown Santa Fe.
USD12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Shed

Choose from an array of New Mexican cuisine at this popular eatery.
Just a short walk from the museum.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Santa Fe Plaza

Wander around the historic plaza, surrounded by galleries and shops.
Easily walkable from lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Cafe Pasqual's

Delight in vibrant dishes with fresh local ingredients.
Close to Santa Fe Plaza.
USD30, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Rest at the Hilton Santa Fe Historic Plaza for a lovely night.
Centrally located in Santa Fe.
USD200, 30 min
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Day 8: En Route to Albuquerque

Albuquerque, NM

8:00AM

Breakfast at The 377 Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at a local favorite café before heading out.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Albuquerque

Venture to Albuquerque, an exciting city with much to offer.
Take I-25 S for a smooth journey.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Sandia Peak Tramway

Experience breathtaking views from the world's longest aerial tram.
Located just north of the city.
USD25, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Pinto

Savor traditional New Mexican dishes at this beloved restaurant.
Short drive from the tramway.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Old Town Albuquerque

Wander the historic plazas, shops, and galleries of Old Town.
Easily accessible from lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Range Cafe

Enjoy farm-to-table dishes in a quirky yet chic atmosphere.
Located near the Old Town.
USD30, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax at the Hotel Albuquerque at Old Town for the night.
Centrally located in Albuquerque.
USD150, 30 min
Find Hotels in Albuquerque

Day 9: On to Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Blue Willow Tea Shop

Enjoy a quaint breakfast with a delightful tea selection.
Short drive from the hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Colorado Springs

Head northeast to Colorado Springs, known for its stunning landscapes.
Follow I-25 N for a direct route.
USD30, 3.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Margarita at PineCreek

Relish a delicious lunch with beautiful views of the mountains.
Located in Colorado Springs.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Garden of the Gods

Explore the stunning red rock formations and hiking trails in the park.
Close by the restaurant.
USD0, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Broadmoor

Indulge in a fine dining experience at this historic hotel.
Within close proximity.
USD50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Relax at the Hyatt Place Colorado Springs for a comfortable stay.
Located nearby.
USD140, 30 min
Find Hotels in Colorado Springs

Day 10: Exploring Denver

Denver, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Start your day with a creative breakfast in a lively diner atmosphere.
Short drive from hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Denver

Head to Denver, the Mile High City with fantastic sights.
Follow I-25 N for a quick drive.
USD25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Denver Art Museum

Experience a diverse collection of art and exhibits at this world-class museum.
Located in downtown Denver.
USD13, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Union Station

Savor a lunch made from local ingredients in a historic train station.
Short walk from the museum.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the Denver Botanic Gardens

Relax and admire the beautiful plants and flowers in the gardens.
A short drive or Uber ride away.
USD15, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at Chez Maggy

Indulge in French cuisine for a delightful dinner experience.
Near the Botanic Gardens.
USD50, 2 hours

6:30PM

Check-in at Hotel

Stay at the Hilton Garden Inn Denver Downtown, a comfortable choice.
Located in the heart of Denver.
USD180, 30 min
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Day 11: Adventure to Badlands Park

Badlands National Park, SD

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I Cafe

Enjoy breakfast before a long drive towards the stunning Badlands.
Nearby hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Badlands National Park

A scenic drive awaits you as you head to Badlands National Park.
Follow I-70 N for the journey.
USD60, 6 hours

2:00PM

Arrive at Badlands National Park

Prepare to be mesmerized by the rugged beauty of the Badlands landscape.
Visitor center for maps and info.
USD30, 2 hours (exploration)

4:00PM

Catch the Sunset at Pinnacles Overlook

Enjoy a breathtaking sunset and stunning views across the Badlands.
Short drive from visitor center.
USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cedar Pass Lodge

Dine with a view, enjoying local dishes in the park.
Also located in the park.
USD35, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Check-in at Campground

Camp under the stars at Badlands National Park Campground.
Located within the park.
USD30, 30 min
Find Hotels in Badlands National Park

Day 12: Explore Badlands National Park

Badlands National Park, SD

7:00AM

Breakfast at Camp

Enjoy breakfast cooked over a campfire as you soak in the morning serenity.
Camping area.
USD0, 1 hour

8:00AM

Hiking the Notch Trail

Embark on a breathtaking hike with gorgeous views along the way.
Trailhead located near campground.
USD0, 3 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge

Refuel with a hearty meal at Cedar Pass Lodge after your hike.
Back to the lodge.
USD30, 1 hour

1:00PM

Drive to Wall Drug Store

Visit the iconic roadside attraction, Wall Drug Store, famous for its quirky gifts.
Short drive from the park.
USD0, 1 hour

2:00PM

Discover Wall Drug Store

Explore the expansive store and partake in the playful exhibits.
Easily walkable.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Return to Badlands National Park

Head back to the park for more exploration.
Drive from Wall Drug.
USD0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Cedar Pass Lodge

Enjoy another lovely dinner while soaking up the park atmosphere.
Located on-site.
USD35, 1.5 hours

8:30PM

Stargazing in Badlands

End your day outside with breathtaking views of the star-filled sky.
In the campground.
USD0, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Badlands National Park

Day 13: Road to Rapid City

Rapid City, SD

8:00AM

Breakfast at Camp

Fuel up with breakfast while enjoying the fresh Badlands air.
Camping area.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00AM

Pack Up Camp

Prepare to leave your campsite and head toward Rapid City.
30 mins for packing.
USD0, 30 min

10:00AM

Drive to Rapid City

A quick drive to Rapid City opens up more adventure.
Head east from Badlands.
USD20, 1 hour

11:30AM

Visit Mount Rushmore

Marvel at the iconic Mount Rushmore National Memorial.
Short drive from Rapid City.
USD10, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Market

Savor delicious sandwiches and salads at this local gem.
Located in Rapid City.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Downtown Rapid City

Check out the vibrant downtown with shops and art galleries.
Short walk from lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Swiss-German Lodge

Indulge in a delicious German meal with a local twist.
Centrally located in Rapid City.
USD35, 2 hours

7:00PM

Check-in at Hotel

Wind down at the Quality Inn for a restful night.
Only minutes from dinner.
USD120, 30 min
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Day 14: Return Journey to Folkston

Folkston, GA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Have breakfast at your hotel before a long drive back home.
Quality Inn restaurant.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for Folkston

Prepare for the return trip home to Folkston, GA.
Take I-90 E for updated route back.
USD200, 12 hours

9:00PM

Arrive in Folkston

Return home after an incredible 14-day adventure filled with unforgettable experiences.
Back home, relax and enjoy memories made.
USD0, N/A
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