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Ultimate California Family Adventure: Theme Parks & National Parks Road Trip

Viewed by 59 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Entertainment

Los Angeles, CA

10:00 AM

Check-In at Hotel

Arrive in Los Angeles and check into a family-friendly hotel such as the Hilton Garden Inn.
From LAX, the hotel is just a 30-minute drive using the 105 Freeway.
USD200, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Enjoy a classic California dining experience with burgers and fries.
Located 10 minutes from the hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Spend the afternoon exploring thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies.
15-minute drive from In-N-Out.
USD1,400 (for family of four), 6 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Ca' del Sole

Dine at this Italian restaurant known for its family-friendly atmosphere and generous portions.
20-minute drive from Universal Studios.
USD150, 2 hours
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Day 2: Theme Park Fun

Los Angeles, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Café

Start your day with legendary pancakes at this popular breakfast spot.
10-minute drive from the hotel.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Disneyland Park

A full day of magic and adventure awaits at the happiest place on Earth.
30-minute drive to Anaheim.
USD1,800 (for family of four), 10 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at the Plaza Inn

Enjoy a fantastic dinner with a view of Main Street at Disneyland.
Inside Disneyland.
USD120, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Beach Day & Adventure

San Diego, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pat & Oscar’s

Feast on a hearty breakfast before hitting the road.
Driving direction: South on I-5 to San Diego, approximately 2 hours.
USD70, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Check-In at Hotel

Settle into a family-friendly hotel in San Diego, such as the Courtyard by Marriott.
Hotel located downtown.
USD250, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Fish Market

Enjoy fresh seafood with stunning views of San Diego's waterfront.
A 15-minute walk from the hotel.
USD100, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit SeaWorld San Diego

Dive into marine-themed adventures, rides, and animal encounters.
10-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD1,200 (for family of four), 5.5 hours

8:00 PM

Dinner at Old Town Mexican Café

Taste authentic Mexican cuisine in the historic Old Town area.
15-minute drive from SeaWorld.
USD85, 2 hours
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Day 4: Beach & Wildlife Adventure

San Diego, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla

Savor a delicious breakfast at this La Jolla favorite.
20-minute drive from hotel.
USD80, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Go Kayaking in La Jolla Cove

Experience the marine life and stunning views of the cove by kayak.
10-minute drive to rental shop.
USD200 (for family of four), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Olympic Café

Recharge with a casual lunch in the heart of La Jolla.
Short walk from kayaking spot.
USD70, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore the vast gardens, museums, and activities this park offers.
15-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD0 (entrance free, museum tickets vary), 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner in Little Italy

Enjoy a range of Italian dishes; choose from various restaurants in the Little Italy district.
10-minute drive from Balboa Park.
USD120, 2 hours
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Day 5: Adventure & Nature

Riverside, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Sevilla

Enjoy a delicious brunch in Riverside before a day of outdoor adventure.
Driving direction: North on I-15 to Riverside, approximately 1.5 hours.
USD60, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Hiking at Mount Rubidioux

Hike up this iconic mountain for panoramic views of Riverside.
30-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD0, 2 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Salted Pig

Savor farm-to-table dishes with a focus on local ingredients.
20-minute drive from the hike.
USD90, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Riverside Art Museum

Discover the range of modern art exhibits at this local museum.
15-minute drive from lunch spot.
USD20, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Mission Inn Hotel & Spa

Dine at this historic hotel known for its unique architecture and atmosphere.
5-minute drive from museum.
USD150, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Relaxing Nature Retreat

Lake Arrowhead, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Lake Arrowhead Village

Enjoy a lakeside breakfast with stunning views of the water.
Drive to Lake Arrowhead, approximately 1.5 hours from Riverside.
USD80, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Lake Activities

Engage in paddleboarding, boating, or swimming in Lake Arrowhead.
Various rental spots located at the Lake.
USD150 (equipment rental), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at The Grill at Antler's Inn

Take a break with burgers and sandwiches overlooking the lake.
Short walk from water activities.
USD90, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore the Hiking Trails

Discover several hiking trails around the lake for families of differing experience levels.
Drive around the lake to trailheads.
USD0, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Lake Arrowhead Brewery & Grill

Conclude the day with delicious pub food and local craft beers.
5-minute drive from the trails.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Yosemite National Park Adventure

Yosemite National Park, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Wawona Hotel

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your outdoor adventures.
Drive to Yosemite, approximately 6 hours.
USD70, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Check-In at Yosemite Lodge

Settle into your accommodations surrounded by the natural beauty of Yosemite.
15-minute drive from the park entrance.
USD300, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at the River Restaurant

Enjoy local cuisine with views of the Merced River.
Inside the lodge area.
USD100, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Hiking to Yosemite Falls

Take a scenic hike to the iconic Yosemite Falls and enjoy its breathtaking views.
Trailhead easily accessible from the lodge.
USD0 (park entry required), 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at the Mountain Room Restaurant

Dine with stunning views of the natural landscape that surrounds you.
2-minute drive from the lodge.
USD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Yosemite National Park

Day 8: Exploring Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Enjoy a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before embarking on today’s adventures.
At the Yosemite Lodge.
USD80, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Rock Climbing Experience

Test your limits with a professional rock climbing guide on Yosemite's legendary cliffs.
Many guiding companies can be accessed at the visitor center.
USD500 (for family of four), 4 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch Picnic at El Capitan Meadow

Pack a picnic and enjoy it surrounded by magnificent El Capitan views.
Drive to El Capitan, about 30 minutes.
USD40, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore Glacier Point

Visit this breathtaking viewpoint for stunning panoramic vistas of the valley.
Drive to Glacier Point, approximately 1 hour.
USD0 (park entry required), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at the Lodge

Celebrate the day with dinner back at the lodge with varied dining options.
Within the Lodge.
USD150, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Yosemite National Park

Day 9: Travel to San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Lodge

Finish off your stay in Yosemite with breakfast at the lodge.
At the Yosemite Lodge.
USD80, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Travel to San Francisco

Head to San Francisco for the next stop of your adventure, a trip of about 4 hours.
Via CA-140 W to CA-99 N.
USD0 (gas costs may apply), 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Pier 39

Enjoy sea lion views and a vibrant atmosphere at this famous location.
Directly upon arrival in the city.
USD120, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Explore Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to Alcatraz and learn about its intriguing history.
Pier 33 for ferry pickup.
USD200 (for family of four), 3 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Dine with amazing views of the Bay while enjoying a variety of entrees and desserts.
Located at the top of Macy’s on Union Square.
USD150, 2 hours
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Day 10: City Adventures

San Francisco, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Get energized with breakfast at famed Mama's, known for its delightful menu.
10-minute drive from hotel.
USD80, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Visit Exploratorium

Engage with interactive science exhibits at this family-friendly museum.
15-minute drive from Mama's.
USD120 (for family of four), 3 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery

Enjoy a delicious sourdough bread bowl with clam chowder at this iconic spot.
Short walk from Exploratorium.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Cable Car Ride

Hop on a historic cable car for a quintessential San Francisco experience.
Board at Powell-Hyde or Powell-Mason line.
USD40 (for family of four), 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Stroll through beautiful gardens and enjoy various attractions along the way.
10-minute walk from cable car stop.
USD0 (free entry), 2.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Cliff House

Experience elegant dining while enjoying stunning ocean views.
15-minute drive from the park.
USD200, 2 hours
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Day 11: Coastal Excursion

Monterey, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Grab breakfast at your hotel before heading on to Monterey.
About a 2-hour drive south along Highway 1.
USD60, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore one of the best aquariums in the world with mesmerizing marine life exhibits.
Located about 5 minutes from the aquarium.
USD150 (for family of four), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Enjoy lunch at a waterfront restaurant with various options to choose from.
Short walk from the aquarium.
USD100, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Explore 17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive along the famous coast, stopping at beautiful vistas along the way.
Beginning point starts at the aquarium.
USD10 (per vehicle), 2.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Fish Hopper

Enjoy seafood with unparalleled views of the ocean.
Located on Cannery Row.
USD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 12: Scenic Beauty

Big Sur, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Indulge in breakfast at your hotel before heading out on this scenic adventure.
20-mile drive to Gorda.
USD60, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Explore Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park

Hike through lush redwoods and enjoy scenic views of the stunning beaches.
30-minute drive from Gorda.
USD10 (vehicle fee), 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Big Sur River Inn

Enjoy a riverside lunch in a serene setting.
Short drive from the park.
USD90, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

Witness the stunning McWay Falls and enjoy walks along the coastline.
20-minute drive from lunch.
USD10 (vehicle fee), 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Nepenthe

Cap off the day with dinner on a beautiful hillside overlooking the ocean.
10-minute drive from Julia Pfeiffer.
USD150, 2 hours
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Day 13: Beach Day & Relaxation

Santa Barbara, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Natural Cafe

Enjoy a fresh and healthy breakfast before heading to Santa Barbara.
Drive to Santa Barbara, approximately 2 hours.
USD60, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Visit Santa Barbara Zoo

Explore this charming zoo with a wide array of animals and beautiful gardens.
Located about 20 minutes from breakfast.
USD70 (for family of four), 2 hours

12:30 PM

Lunch at Shoreline Beach Cafe

Dine right on the beach with great views while enjoying beachy favorites.
15-minute drive from the zoo.
USD80, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Beach Time at East Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the sandy shores or playing beach games.
Just across the street from the restaurant.
USD0 (free access), 3 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at The Boathouse

Enjoy seafood and American classics with ocean views.
Short drive along the coast from East Beach.
USD150, 1.5 hours
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Day 14: Travel to San Diego

San Diego, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Savor a delicious breakfast before departing Santa Barbara for San Diego.
Drive to San Diego, approximately 2-2.5 hours.
USD70, 1 hour

10:00 AM

Check-In at Hotel

Arrive in San Diego and settle into your family-friendly hotel, such as the Navy Pier Inn.
Located near San Diego Bay.
USD250, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Lunch at Harbor House

Enjoy seafood cuisine while overlooking the beautiful harbor.
5-minute drive from the hotel.
USD100, 1.5 hours

1:00 PM

Visit Cabrillo National Monument

Explore breathtaking ocean views, city landmarks, and tide pools with historical insights.
25-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD20 (vehicle fee), 2 hours

3:30 PM

Relax on Mission Beach

Spend the afternoon enjoying the sun, sand, and surf at this coastal gem.
30-minute drive from Cabrillo.
USD0 (free access), 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at The Fish Market

Conclude your Californian adventure with a seafood feast at this popular restaurant.
Back at Harbor area near the hotel.
USD150, 2 hours
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