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12-Day Ultimate US Adventure Itinerary

Viewed by 87 travelers

Day 1: Explore NYC

New York City, NY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Start your NYC adventure with a delicious bagel at the iconic Ess-a-Bagel.
Located in Midtown, easily accessible via subway.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Central Park

Stroll through the sprawling Central Park, an oasis amidst the urban landscape.
Walk from the bagel shop to Central Park (15 min).
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Grab a quick lunch at Shake Shack, known for its mouthwatering burgers.
Head to Shake Shack in Madison Square Park (20 min walk).
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Dive into art history at The Met, one of the largest and most prestigious museums in the world.
Take the subway from Shake Shack to The Met (30 min).
USD25, 3 hours

4:30PM

Walk the High Line

Enjoy a unique walk on the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway track.
Take the subway to the west side (20 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Spotted Pig

Indulge in a cozy dinner at The Spotted Pig, renowned for its gastropub fare.
Take a taxi to The Spotted Pig (15 min).
USD40, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Broadway Show

End your day with a spectacular Broadway show, an iconic New York experience.
Walk to Broadway theaters (10 min).
USD150, 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in New York City

Day 2: Philly History

Philadelphia, PA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Reading Terminal Market

Start with a hearty breakfast at the famous Reading Terminal Market, filled with local vendors.
Drive from NYC to Philadelphia (1.5 hours).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Liberty Bell

Explore the historic Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence.
Walk to the Liberty Bell Center (15 min).
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Tour Independence Hall

Discover the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution.
Walk to Independence Hall (5 min).
USD1, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Pat’s King of Steaks

Savor the famous Philly cheesesteak at Pat’s King of Steaks.
Drive to Pat's (10 min).
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Art at the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Marvel at masterpieces and run up the Rocky Steps for the iconic photo op.
Drive to the museum (15 min).
USD20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Reading Terminal Market

Return to Reading Terminal Market for local snacks and crafts.
Drive back (15 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Zahav

Enjoy a modern Israeli dining experience at Zahav, famed for its fresh flavors.
Drive to Zahav (10 min).
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Philadelphia

Day 3: D.C. Culture

Washington, D.C.

8:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Fuel up with a farmhouse breakfast at Founding Farmers, popular among locals and tourists alike.
Drive from Philadelphia to D.C. (2 hours).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Mall

Wander through the iconic National Mall, encompassing the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.
Walk to the National Mall (15 min).
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill

Dine at the historic Old Ebbitt Grill, famous for its oysters and American cuisine.
Walk to Old Ebbitt Grill (15 min).
USD30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Smithsonian Museums

Explore the fascinating exhibits at the Smithsonian Museums, free entry to all.
Walk to the Smithsonian (10 min).
Free, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Visit the U.S. Capitol

Take a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol, the seat of Congress.
Walk to the Capitol (20 min).
Free with reservation, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

End your day with a fine dining experience at The Capital Grille with delicious steak options.
Drive to The Capital Grille (10 min).
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Washington

Day 4: Richmond Expeditions

Richmond, VA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Community Hearth

Enjoy a made-from-scratch breakfast with local ingredients at Community Hearth.
Drive to Richmond from D.C. (2 hours).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Virginia State Capitol

Explore the stunning architecture of the Virginia State Capitol designed by Thomas Jefferson.
Drive to the Capitol (10 min).
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Check out the Edgar Allan Poe Museum

Discover the life and works of the iconic American writer at the Edgar Allan Poe Museum.
Drive to the museum (10 min).
USD8, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Mama J’s Kitchen

Savor down-home Southern cooking at Mama J’s Kitchen.
Drive to the restaurant (10 min).
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore the American Civil War Museum

Learn about the Civil War's impact and Richmond's role at the American Civil War Museum.
Drive to the museum (15 min).
USD10, 2 hours

4:30PM

Take a stroll at Maymont Park

Relax and enjoy the beauty of Maymont Park with its landscaped gardens and wildlife exhibits.
Drive to the park (15 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Roosevelt

Indulge in modern Southern cuisine at The Roosevelt, known for its unique dishes.
Drive to the restaurant (10 min).
USD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Richmond

Day 5: Southern Charm

Charleston, SC

8:00AM

Breakfast at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit

Savor the best biscuits in Charleston at Callie’s, where flavors meet tradition.
Drive from Richmond to Charleston (6 hours).
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Battery

Experience the historic southern mansions along the Battery and take in the waterfront views.
Drive to The Battery (5 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore historic downtown Charleston

Stroll through the charming streets of historic downtown Charleston, full of rich history.
Walk around the downtown (20 min).
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Husk

Devour farm-to-table Southern cuisine at Husk, a must-visit for food lovers.
Walk to Husk (10 min).
USD35, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Plantation Tour at Boone Hall

Discover Southern history with a tour of Boone Hall Plantation, one of America’s oldest working plantations.
Drive to Boone Hall (30 min).
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Evening at Folly Beach

Relax at Folly Beach and enjoy the ocean air and sandy shores.
Drive to Folly Beach (35 min).
Free, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Fleet Landing

Dine on fresh seafood at Fleet Landing, with stunning views of the harbor.
Drive to Fleet Landing (30 min).
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Charleston

Day 6: Historic Savannah

Savannah, GA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Collins Quarter

Indulge in an Australian-inspired breakfast at The Collins Quarter, a local favorite.
Drive to Savannah from Charleston (2 hours).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Forsyth Park

Start your day in Savannah by strolling through Forsyth Park, famous for its stunning fountain.
Drive to Forsyth Park (10 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Historic District Walking Tour

Explore the charming streets of Savannah’s Historic District on a guided walking tour.
Meet your guide in the Historic District (10 min drive).
USD30, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Mrs. Wilkes’ Dining Room

Experience communal dining at Mrs. Wilkes’ with Southern favorites served family-style.
Walk to Mrs. Wilkes’ (15 min).
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Savannah History Museum

Learn about Savannah’s rich history and culture at the Savannah History Museum.
Walk to the museum (10 min).
USD10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at River Street

Explore the shops along River Street, known for its cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere.
Drive to River Street (10 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Grey

Indulge in modern Southern fare at The Grey, located in a historic Greyhound bus station.
Drive to The Grey (10 min).
USD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Savannah

Day 7: Orlando Amusements

Orlando, FL

8:00AM

Breakfast at Keke’s Breakfast Cafe

Enjoy fluffy pancakes or savory breakfast combos at Keke’s, a local breakfast chain.
Drive to Orlando from Savannah (4 hours).
USD15, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Walt Disney World

Spend a magical day at Walt Disney World, filled with thrilling rides and enchanting experiences.
Drive to Disney World (30 min).
USD120, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Disney Springs

Explore dining options at Disney Springs, an entertainment complex with diverse restaurants.
Stay at Disney World (20 min walk).
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Orlando

Day 8: Miami Vibes

Miami, FL

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Front Porch Cafe

Start your Miami adventure with a delicious breakfast at The Front Porch Cafe on Ocean Drive.
Drive to Miami from Orlando (3.5 hours).
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Relax at South Beach

Spend your morning soaking up the sun at the iconic South Beach.
Walk to South Beach (5 min).
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Joe’s Stone Crab

Feast on stone crabs at this legendary seafood restaurant popular among locals.
Walk to Joe’s (10 min).
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Art Deco Historic District Tour

Take a guided tour through Miami’s famous Art Deco Historic District.
Walk to the tour starting point (10 min).
USD25, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Wynwood Walls

Admire the vibrant street art at Wynwood Walls, a distinctive outdoor gallery.
Drive to Wynwood (15 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Versace Mansion

End your evening with a luxurious dining experience at the iconic Versace Mansion.
Drive to the mansion (10 min).
USD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Miami

Day 9: New Orleans Delights

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café du Monde

Start your day with beignets and café au lait at the famous Café du Monde.
Drive to New Orleans from Miami (13 hours, consider an overnight stop if preferred).
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore the French Quarter

Wander through art shops, jazz clubs, and historic buildings in the magical French Quarter.
Walk to the French Quarter (10 min).
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Po’ Boy Sandwich Shop

Indulge in a classic Po’ Boy sandwich at this beloved shop.
Walk to the restaurant (5 min).
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit the National WWII Museum

Delve into history at the National WWII Museum, one of the top rated museums in the country.
Drive to the museum (10 min).
USD28, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll through Jackson Square

Enjoy the artistic atmosphere of Jackson Square, with street performers and artists.
Walk to Jackson Square (10 min).
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Cochon

Experience contemporary Cajun dishes at Cochon, a local gem in the Warehouse District.
Drive to Cochon (15 min).
USD40, 2 hours

8:00PM

Jazz at Preservation Hall

Wrap up your day with live jazz music at the legendary Preservation Hall.
Walk to Preservation Hall (10 min).
USD20, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in New Orleans

Day 10: Nashville Highlights

Nashville, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Treat yourself to some of the best pancakes in Nashville at the popular Pancake Pantry.
Drive to Nashville from New Orleans (8 hours).
USD15, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Tour the Country Music Hall of Fame

Explore the rich history of country music at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Drive to the Hall (10 min).
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hattie B’s Hot Chicken

Savor Nashville’s iconic hot chicken at Hattie B’s, a local favorite.
Drive to Hattie B's (10 min).
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Parthenon

See the full-scale replica of the Parthenon in Centennial Park.
Drive to the Parthenon (15 min).
USD10, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Stroll down Broadway

Experience the vibrant nightlife and live music on Broadway.
Drive to Broadway (10 min).
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Enjoy fine dining at The Capital Grille, known for its exemplary steaks and wine selection.
Drive to the restaurant (10 min).
USD50, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Live Music at Tootsie’s

Wrap up your night with live music at the iconic Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge.
Walk to Tootsie’s (5 min).
Free, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 11: Memphis Must-Sees

Memphis, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Arcade Restaurant

Start your day at The Arcade Restaurant, known for its classic diner fare.
Drive to Memphis from Nashville (3 hours).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Graceland

Explore the iconic home of Elvis Presley, Graceland, for a glimpse into music history.
Drive to Graceland (30 min).
USD45, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken

Enjoy the world-famous fried chicken at Gus’s, a must-try in Memphis.
Drive to Gus's (20 min).
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

National Civil Rights Museum

Learn about the civil rights movement at the National Civil Rights Museum located at the Lorraine Motel.
Drive to the museum (15 min).
USD16, 2 hours

4:30PM

Explore Beale Street

Experience the music and nightlife on iconic Beale Street with its live performances.
Drive to Beale Street (10 min).
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Rendezvous

Enjoy Memphis-style BBQ at The Rendezvous, a local institution.
Walk to The Rendezvous (10 min).
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Memphis

Day 12: Chicago Finale

Chicago, IL

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Indulge in delicious pancakes with creative toppings for breakfast at Wildberry.
Drive to Chicago from Memphis (6 hours).
USD20, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit Millennium Park

Snap a photo at the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture, also known as 'The Bean'.
Drive to Millennium Park (10 min).
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Walk along the Chicago Riverwalk

Enjoy a scenic walk along the Chicago Riverwalk with great views of the city.
Walk to the Riverwalk (10 min).
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Portillo’s

Savor Chicago's famous Italian beef sandwich at Portillo’s.
Drive to Portillo's (10 min).
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Art Institute of Chicago

Explore the vast collections of art, including famous works by Monet and Van Gogh.
Drive to the Art Institute (10 min).
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Roam Navy Pier

Spend your evening at Navy Pier, enjoying shopping, dining, and the views of Lake Michigan.
Walk to Navy Pier (15 min).
Free, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at The Girl & The Goat

Celebrate the end of your adventure with a spectacular meal at The Girl & The Goat, known for its creative dishes.
Drive to The Girl & The Goat (15 min).
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chicago
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