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Ultimate Family Road Trip: New Jersey to California Adventure

Viewed by 67 travelers

Day 1: Exploring Philadelphia

Philadelphia, PA

9:00 AM

Breakfast at The Dutch

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast featuring their famous Dutch pancakes.
Just a short drive from your hotel.
USD30, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Visit the Liberty Bell

Head over to Independence Hall to see this symbol of American freedom.
Walk across Independence Mall.
USD0, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Explore diverse lunch options and grab some cheesesteaks for the family.
Short drive from the Liberty Bell.
USD50, 2 hours

3:00 PM

Exploratorium at the Franklin Institute

Enjoy hands-on science exhibits that will captivate both kids and adults.
10-minute drive to the institute.
USD80, 2 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Max Brenner

Indulge in a family-friendly menu featuring delicious chocolate specialties.
Short drive from the Institute.
USD70, 1.5 hours

8:00 PM

Evening Stroll Along the Schuylkill River

Unwind as you walk along the river, with beautiful city views.
Drive to the riverfront park.
USD0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Philadelphia

Day 2: Pittsburgh Adventures

Pittsburgh, PA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Pamela's Diner

Enjoy the famous pancakes and local coffee before hitting the road.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Pittsburgh (5 hr 30 min)

Set off for Pittsburgh, enjoying the scenic drive through Pennsylvania.
Use I-76 W.
USD0, 5.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Phipps Conservatory

Delight in the lush gardens and various plant exhibits perfect for kids.
15-minute drive from the hotel.
USD60, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Melting Pot

An interactive dining experience with fondue for the whole family.
10-minute drive.
USD100, 2 hours

8:00 PM

Visit Point State Park

Enjoy the picturesque views of the rivers and city skyline.
Short drive to the park.
USD0, 1 hour
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Day 3: Exploring Columbus

Columbus, OH

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Katalina's

Try the famous pancake balls and refreshing smoothies before departure.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Columbus (2 hr 15 min)

Continue the road trip towards Columbus, OH enjoying more of Pennsylvania's landscape.
Use I-70 W.
USD0, 2.25 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at North Market

Explore various vendors offering local food including gourmet grills and fresh produce.
Located in the heart of the city.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Spend the afternoon viewing fascinating wildlife, perfect for children.
Drive to the zoo, about 25 minutes away.
USD70, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at The Eagle

Enjoy a hearty meal with Southern comfort food and a family-friendly atmosphere.
Drive back to downtown Columbus.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Indianapolis Highlights

Indianapolis, IN

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Milktooth

Indulge in unique breakfast options in this trendy diner.
Short drive from your accommodation.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Indianapolis (2 hr)

Enjoy the drive through the flat landscape of Indiana toward the capital.
Use I-70 W.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Slippery Noodle Inn

Eat at Indiana’s oldest bar, known for its BBQ offerings.
Short walk from the downtown area.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:00 PM

Children's Museum of Indianapolis

Spend a few hours indulging in interactive exhibits for all ages.
Drive to the museum location.
USD60, 3 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at St. Elmo Steak House

Try this iconic steakhouse famous for its shrimp cocktail.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Indianapolis

Day 5: Exciting St. Louis

St. Louis, MO

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Rooster

Savor the delicious crepes and inventive breakfast options.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to St. Louis (4 hr 30 min)

Travel to St. Louis enjoying views of the Mississippi River along the way.
Use I-64 W.
USD0, 4.5 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch at Pappy’s Smokehouse

Enjoy some of the best BBQ ribs in the city, a must-try!
Short drive near the riverfront.
USD60, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Gateway Arch Park

Visit the iconic Gateway Arch and learn about its history.
Walk from the lunch spot.
USD50, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at The Crossing Restaurant

Enjoy regional dishes with a contemporary twist.
Short drive from the park.
USD90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in St. Louis

Day 6: Kansas City Fun

Kansas City, MO

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Classic Cup

Enjoy morning pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Kansas City (3 hr 15 min)

Experience a scenic route through the plains of Kansas.
Take I-70 W.
USD0, 3.25 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Arthur Bryant’s BBQ

Savor Kansas City-style BBQ at one of the city's iconic restaurants.
Short drive from the arrival point.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit the Kansas City Zoo

Spend the afternoon exploring a wide variety of animal exhibits.
Quick trip to Swope Park.
USD70, 3 hours

6:30 PM

Dinner at Jack Stack Barbecue

Another iconic BBQ joint to enjoy dinner after the zoo adventure.
Drive through town.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Kansas City

Day 7: Denver Delights

Denver, CO

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Replenish yourself with innovative breakfast dishes and local coffee.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Denver (8 hr 45 min)

Set out for an adventurous drive to the Mile High City.
Take I-70 W.
USD0, 8.75 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Casa Bonita

Experience a dinner and show at this iconic, colorful Mexican restaurant.
Located in Lakewood, a quick trip away from downtown.
USD90, 2 hours
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Day 8: Utah Excursion

Salt Lake City, UT

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Original Pancake House

Enjoy classic pancakes to start the day right before your adventure.
Short drive from hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Salt Lake City (8 hr)

Head toward Salt Lake City, exploring beautiful mountainous terrain.
Follow I-80 W.
USD0, 8 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Red Iguana

Known for their mole, this is the go-to spot for authentic Mexican food.
Located close to downtown.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Visit Temple Square

Marvel at the stunning architecture and beauty of the famous Mormon Temple.
Short drive or walk from dinner.
USD0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Salt Lake City

Day 9: Viva Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Fuel up with fresh eggs and creative breakfast dishes before hitting the road.
Short drive from hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Las Vegas (6 hr 30 min)

Set out for a dazzling drive towards the entertainment capital of the world.
Follow I-15 S.
USD0, 6.5 hours

4:00 PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience California’s iconic fast-food chain with delicious burgers.
Near the Las Vegas Strip.
USD40, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Visit The Strip

Stroll along The Strip, taking in the lights and sights of Las Vegas.
Walking distance from lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Buffet at Bellagio

Delight in an extravagant buffet featuring global cuisine options.
Located in the Bellagio Hotel.
USD100, 2 hours
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Day 10: Los Angeles Bliss

Los Angeles, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Bizou

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring fresh ingredients to kickstart your LA visit.
Short drive from hotel.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Los Angeles (5 hr)

Head west towards Los Angeles, ready for excitement and attractions.
Use I-10 W.
USD0, 5 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at The Original Farmer's Market

Explore diverse food stalls and grab a quick bite with local flavors.
Located at 3rd & Fairfax.
USD50, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Explore Griffith Park and Observatory

Discover Griffith Park with stunning views of LA and educational exhibits.
20-minute drive from lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Roscoe's House of Chicken and Waffles

Enjoy this iconic Los Angeles spot known for its unique pairing of chicken and waffles.
Short drive from the observatory.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Charming San Diego

San Diego, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Breakfast Republic

Dive into creative breakfast items to energize before the day.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to San Diego (2 hr)

Drive south to sunny San Diego with coastal views ahead.
Use I-5 S.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30 AM

Visit Balboa Park

Explore the beautiful gardens, art museums, and playgrounds perfect for kids.
10-minute drive from downtown.
USD0, 3 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch at The Fish Market

Savor fresh seafood with a waterfront view overlooking the harbor.
Located next to Seaport Village.
USD70, 1.5 hours

4:45 PM

La Jolla Cove Adventure

Explore the scenic waters and perhaps spot sea lions on this beachfront spot.
20-minute drive from lunch.
USD0, 2.5 hours

7:30 PM

Dinner at Phil's BBQ

Known for its tender ribs and delicious sides!
Short drive from La Jolla.
USD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 12: Scenic San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Enjoy a delicious breakfast in a cozy setting known for their French toast.
Drive north toward the restaurant.
USD50, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Drive to San Francisco (6 hr)

Travel up the coast to the iconic city by the bay.
Use US-101 N.
USD0, 6 hours

4:30 PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy clam chowder in a bread bowl, a local specialty.
Walk to the waterfront area.
USD60, 1.5 hours

6:00 PM

Visit Pier 39

Explore shops, entertainment, and sea lions lounging on the docks.
Short walk from lunch.
USD0, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Embrace a unique experience with garlic-infused dishes!
Short drive from Pier 39.
USD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 13: Nature in Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, CA

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Ahwahnee Dining Room

Enjoy breakfast in a beautiful setting overlooking the park landscape.
Located in Yosemite National Park.
USD60, 1.5 hours

9:30 AM

Explore Yosemite National Park

Spend the day hiking the breathtaking scenery in one of America’s greatest national parks.
Start at the main visitors center.
USD35, All day

12:30 PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack a lunch to enjoy amidst the stunning landscapes.
Bring a backpack and find a lovely spot.
USD15, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Wawona’s Grill

Enjoy a relaxed dinner in the park after a day of exploration.
Short drive in the park.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Yosemite National Park

Day 14: Return Travel

Return Home

7:00 AM

Breakfast from a Local Café

Start the morning with a quick breakfast before departing.
Pick one from a local choice in Yosemite.
USD20, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Departure

Check out of your accommodation and begin your journey home.
Plan your route back based on your preference.
USD0, All day
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