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10-Day Cross-Country Road Trip: Cities, Nature & Culinary Delights

Viewed by 66 travelers

Day 1: Exploring NYC

New York City, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Balthazar

Start your day with a classic French breakfast at Balthazar, where the pastries are fresh, and the ambiance is charming.
Located in SoHo, an easy subway ride from anywhere in Manhattan.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore Central Park

Enjoy a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the picturesque paths of Central Park, a perfect way to embrace nature amidst the bustling city.
A simple walk from Balthazar or a short subway ride to the park entrance.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Delve into art history at the Met, home to an extensive collection of art from various cultures and eras.
Take a 10-minute walk from Central Park to the museum.
USD25, 2.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Katz’s Delicatessen

Savor a world-famous pastrami sandwich at Katz’s, where generations of locals have dined.
Take the subway from The Met to the Lower East Side.
USD20, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Walk through Times Square

Experience the vibrant energy of Times Square, where billboards and street performers create an electric atmosphere.
A short subway ride or a 30-minute walk from Katz's.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at The River Café

Indulge in fine dining with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline at The River Café.
Take a quick taxi or subway ride to Brooklyn.
USD100, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Evening Walk on Brooklyn Bridge

Conclude your day by walking across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge at dusk, enjoying the spectacular views of the city lights.
A short walk from The River Café.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 2: Philadelphia's Heritage

Philadelphia, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Morning Glory

Enjoy a delectable breakfast at Morning Glory, known for its hearty dishes and homemade pastries.
Drive to Philadelphia, approximately 1.5 hours from NYC.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Liberty Bell

Explore the iconic symbol of American independence, the Liberty Bell, located in Liberty Bell Center.
10-minute walk from the café.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Tour Independence Hall

Learn about America’s history by touring Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence was signed.
Right next door to the Liberty Bell.
USD1 (for tip, donation-based entry), 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Dive into a food lover’s paradise at Reading Terminal Market, sampling local favorites like cheesesteaks and Amish pretzels.
A 15-minute walk from Independence Hall.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Walk through Fairmount Park

Stroll through Fairmount Park and enjoy the outdoor scenery, ideal for relaxation.
Drive or ride-share to Fairmount Park (~15 minutes).
USD0, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Forests of the Philadelphia Zoo

Spend your afternoon at the Philadelphia Zoo, home to diverse species and beautiful landscapes.
A quick 10-minute drive from Fairmount Park.
USD24, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Fork

Enjoy innovative American cuisine at Fork, where creativity meets seasonality.
About a 15-minute drive from the zoo.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 3: Capital City Wonders

Washington D.C., USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

An American café known for their delicious breakfast served with locally-sourced ingredients.
Drive to Washington D.C. (~2 hours).
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the National Mall

Walk around the National Mall, taking in the memorials and monuments dedicated to significant American figures.
Easily walkable from the café.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of American History

Explore artifacts that tell the story of America’s past.
A short walk from the National Mall.
USD0, 2 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill

Dine at this historic grill that is famed for its oysters and crabs.
A 15-minute walk from the museum.
USD40, 1.5 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the United States Capitol

Capitol tours offer a glimpse into the workings of American democracy.
A short metro ride to Capitol South.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Walk along the Tidal Basin

A relaxing walk along the Tidal Basin, especially beautiful during cherry blossom season.
A 20-minute walk from Capitol.
USD0, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Le Diplomate

Savor French cuisine in a bistro-style restaurant, known for its intimate ambiance.
A short Uber ride from the Tidal Basin.
USD90, 2 hours
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Day 4: Nature's Escape

Shenandoah National Park, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Skyland Lodge

Enjoy breakfast with breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley at Skyland Lodge.
Drive to Shenandoah National Park (~1.5 hours from D.C.).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Hike Old Rag Mountain

Experience breathtaking views after conquering Old Rag Mountain, one of the park's most popular hikes.
Follow park roads to trailheads (~30 minutes).
USD30 (vehicle entrance fee), 4 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Big Meadows Lodge

Refuel at Big Meadows Lodge with sandwiches and local flavors perfect for tired hikers.
Drive back to Big Meadows (~30 minutes from Old Rag).
USD15, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Visit Skyline Drive

Take a scenic drive along Skyline Drive, renowned for its stunning vistas and overlooks.
Drive to one of the overlooks along the park's main road.
USD0, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Luray Caverns Restaurant

Dine at the Luray Caverns Restaurant, enjoying hearty American dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Drive to Luray Caverns (about 30 minutes).
USD40, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Evening Stroll in Luray

Enjoy a quiet evening walk in the charming town of Luray.
A short walk from the restaurant.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 5: Cultural Riches

Richmond, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Perly’s

A delightful Jewish deli renowned for its bagels and brunch specials.
Drive to Richmond (around 1 hour from Luray).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Virginia State Capitol

Explore the beautiful Virginia State Capitol, designed by Thomas Jefferson.
10-minute drive from the deli.
USD0, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Tour the Museum of Fine Arts

Admire a diverse collection of art spanning centuries at this acclaimed museum.
A 15-minute drive from the Capitol.
USD0, 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Roosevelt

Dine on inventive Southern cuisine using locally-sourced ingredients.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD55, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Walk through Maymont Park

Stroll through Maymont Park's beautiful gardens and wildlife exhibits.
A short drive to the park.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Visit the Edgar Allan Poe Museum

Explore the life and works of Edgar Allan Poe in this dedicated museum.
About 15 minutes from Maymont.
USD10, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at L’Opossum

Experience innovative and eclectic dishes at L’Opossum, a must-visit in Richmond.
About a 20-minute drive from the Poe Museum.
USD75, 2 hours
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Day 6: Southern Hospitality

Charleston, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit

Savor delicious Southern biscuits at this breakfast hotspot.
Drive to Charleston (~2 hours from Richmond).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Historic Charleston City Market

Explore this historic market featuring local artisans and delicious food.
A short drive from the café.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Wander through The Battery

Stroll through the famous Battery and admire the stunning antebellum mansions.
A 10-minute walk from the City Market.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at Husk

Indulge in farm-to-table Southern dishes at Husk, where ingredients shine.
A short walk from The Battery.
USD65, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Discover Fort Sumter National Monument

Take a ferry ride to Fort Sumter, the site where the Civil War began.
Catch the ferry from Liberty Square near the market.
USD20, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Fig

Enjoy innovative cuisine driven by seasonal ingredients at this chic restaurant.
Return to downtown Charleston via ferry and a short walk.
USD80, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Ghost Tour in Historic District

Delve into Charleston’s spooky past with a lively ghost tour.
Tours depart from downtown Charleston.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Art & Nature Escape

Asheville, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Early Girl Eatery

Fuel up with locally-sourced Southern breakfast dishes at this eclectic eatery.
Drive to Asheville (~3.5 hours from Charleston).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the Biltmore Estate

Tour America’s largest home and enjoy its stunning gardens.
Just a short drive from the café.
USD80, 3 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Market Place

Dine on farm-to-table dishes with an emphasis on local ingredients.
Drive or a short walk from the estate.
USD45, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit River Arts District

Explore this vibrant area filled with local artists’ studios and galleries.
About a 10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD0, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Hike on the Blue Ridge Parkway

Immerse yourself in nature with stunning mountain views and hiking trails.
Drive to Blue Ridge Parkway entrance (10-20 minutes).
USD0, 2 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Cúrate

Indulge in delicious Spanish tapas at an acclaimed Asheville restaurant.
Drive back to downtown (~20 minutes).
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 8: Music City Vibes

Nashville, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Love

Kick off your Nashville experience with a Southern breakfast at this beloved spot.
Drive to Nashville (~3.5 hours from Asheville).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit the Country Music Hall of Fame

Delve into the history of country music with an extensive collection of memorabilia.
A quick drive from the café.
USD25, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken

Savor some famous Nashville Hot Chicken at this local favorite.
Around a 10-minute drive from the Hall of Fame.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Centennial Park

Enjoy a stroll in this picturesque park featuring a full-scale replica of the Parthenon.
Drive over to Centennial Park (15 minutes).
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Frist Art Museum

Explore a stunning collection of art in a beautiful Art Deco building.
A short 10-minute drive from the park.
USD15, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Catbird Seat

Experience an interactive fine dining experience with a creative tasting menu.
About a 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD100, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Live Music on Broadway

End your night listening to live country music in downtown Nashville’s iconic honky-tonks.
A short drive to downtown.
USD0, 2-3 hours
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Day 9: Blues & BBQ

Memphis, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bryant’s Breakfast

Fuel up with a classic Southern breakfast to kickstart your day in Memphis.
Drive to Memphis (~3 hours from Nashville).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Graceland

Explore the life and legacy of Elvis Presley at his famous home.
A quick drive from the café.
USD50, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Central BBQ

Savor some of the best Memphis-style BBQ at Central BBQ, a local favorite spot.
Drive over from Graceland.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Explore Beale Street

Experience the blues and vibrant culture on historic Beale Street.
A short drive from Central BBQ.
USD0, 2 hours

3:30 PM

Visit the National Civil Rights Museum

Discover the history of the Civil Rights Movement at this impactful museum.
Located on Beale Street.
USD16, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Indulge in some of the best fried chicken you’ll ever taste at Gus’s.
A short drive away.
USD25, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Evening River Cruise

Relax on a scenic evening riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River.
Head to the riverfront nearby.
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 10: Crescent City Culture

New Orleans, USA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Du Monde

Start your last day with the famous beignets and café au lait at this iconic spot.
Drive to New Orleans (~6 hours from Memphis).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Explore the French Quarter

Stroll through the vibrant streets of the French Quarter filled with art, music, and history.
A short walk from Café Du Monde.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Commander’s Palace

Indulge in exquisite Creole cuisine in an elegant setting at Commander’s Palace.
A 10-minute taxi or streetcar ride from the French Quarter.
USD65, 1.5 hours

1:30 PM

Visit the National WWII Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of World War II through interactive exhibits.
A short taxi ride (or streetcar) to the museum.
USD30, 2.5 hours

4:00 PM

Relax at City Park

Wind down at this enchanting park, featuring beautiful trees and art installations.
A 15-minute drive from the museum.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Cochon

Savor rustic Cajun Southern fare at Cochon, a highlight of your culinary journey.
Drive back towards the French Quarter (~15 minutes).
USD70, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Jazz in the Park

Wrap up your trip with an evening of live jazz music in the park, experiencing the soulful sounds of New Orleans.
Head to Louis Armstrong Park.
USD0, 2 hours
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