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Epic Family Road Trip: Salt Lake City to San Francisco

Viewed by 229 travelers

Day 1: Explore Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pancake House

Start your day with delicious pancakes and family-friendly options at The Original Pancake House.
Travel on a local bus or drive to the restaurant in downtown Salt Lake.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Temple Square

Explore the historic Temple Square, learning about the unique architecture and history of the site.
Walking distance from the breakfast spot.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Red Iguana

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at Red Iguana, known for its famous mole dishes.
Drive to the restaurant, approximately 10 minutes.
USD70, 1 hour

1:00PM

Natural History Museum of Utah

Discover Utah's diverse natural history, from dinosaurs to local flora and fauna, at this engaging museum.
Drive about 15 minutes from lunch.
USD40, 2 hours

4:00PM

Hike at Ensign Peak

Take a short hike on Ensign Peak for panoramic views of Salt Lake City.
Drive short 10-minute drive to the trailhead.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Copper Onion

Enjoy a family-friendly dining experience at The Copper Onion, with dishes crafted from local ingredients.
Drive back to downtown, 15 minutes.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Salt Lake City

Day 2: Adventure in Salt Lake City

Salt Lake City, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eva's Bakery

Savour freshly baked pastries and breakfast favourites at this charming local bakery.
Short drive or public transport to the bakery.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Utah State Capitol

Explore the stunning architecture and learn about Utah's history at the State Capitol.
Drive 10 minutes to the Capitol building.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Liberty Park

Enjoy the expansive green space for a leisurely stroll, playground fun, and see the Tracy Aviary.
Drive 5 minutes to Liberty Park.
USD40 for aviary tickets, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Pie Pizzeria

Feast on delicious pizzas in a casual, laid-back atmosphere perfect for families.
Drive to The Pie Pizzeria, about 10 minutes.
USD60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Tour of the Hogle Zoo

Spend the afternoon at Hogle Zoo to see over 800 animals from around the world.
Drive 15 minutes to the zoo.
USD70, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at City Creek Center Food Court

Choose from various eateries within City Creek Center to satisfy everyone's taste.
Drive back to City Creek Center, approximately 15 minutes.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Salt Lake City

Day 3: Journey to Provo

Provo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Kneaders Bakery & Café

Fuel up with homemade breakfast and scrumptious pastries before hitting the road.
Drive about 10-15 minutes to the café.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Provo

Set off on a scenic drive to Provo, a beautiful 45-minute journey through Utah Valley.
Take I-15 South to Provo.
Fuel-Cost, 45 minutes

10:15AM

Picnic at Lake Provo

Enjoy a picnic by the serene Lake Provo and let the kids explore the area.
Short drive within Provo.
USD30 for picnic supplies, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Brick Oven Pizza

Delight in some of the best pizza in town with family-friendly dining options.
Drive 15 minutes to the pizzeria.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit BYU Museum of Paleontology

Learn about the fascinating world of dinosaurs and ancient life at this interactive museum.
Drive 10 minutes to the museum.
USD20, 2 hours

4:30PM

Scenic Drive through Provo Canyon

Take in stunning views as you drive through the picturesque Provo Canyon.
Drive through the scenic highway.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Los Hermanos

Sample authentic Mexican cuisine, perfect for family dining with a welcoming atmosphere.
Drive back 10-15 minutes from the canyon.
USD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Provo

Day 4: Explore Arches National Park

Moab, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jailhouse Café

Start your morning with hearty breakfast plates and family-friendly options.
Drive to Moab, about 30 minutes.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Arches National Park Visit

Explore the stunning rock formations, including Delicate Arch, while enjoying a family adventure.
Entrance is a short drive from the café.
USD30 (vehicle fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Moab Brewery

Refuel with burgers and pizza at Moab Brewery with a family-friendly vibe.
Drive back to Moab's restaurant district.
USD80, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Guided Canoeing on the Colorado River

Enjoy a guided canoeing adventure on the serene waters of the Colorado River.
Book a nearby tour service.
USD150 (for family), 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pasta Jay’s

Wind down your day at Pasta Jay’s, where delicious Italian cuisine awaits the whole family.
Short drive from the river tours.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Moab

Day 5: Fun in Moab

Moab, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sweet Cravings Bakery + Café

Savour delicious pastries and breakfast dishes to energise for the day ahead.
Short drive to the café.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

ATV Tour of Moab

Experience thrilling ATV rides through Moab’s red rock landscapes.
Book a local ATV tour provider.
USD200 (for family), 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Quesadilla Mobilla

Grab tasty quesadillas and mouth-watering salsas at this popular food truck.
Short drive from ATV location.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Dead Horse Point State Park

Take in breathtaking views of the Colorado River from the famous overlook.
Drive about 30 minutes from lunch.
USD20 (entrance fee), 2 hours

4:00PM

Scenic Sunset at Dead Horse Point

Enjoy a stunning sunset as you watch the colours change across the canyon.
Same area; no travel needed.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at the Desert Bistro

Indulge in a unique dining experience with exquisite New American cuisine.
Drive back to Moab area.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Moab

Day 6: Canyonlands National Park

Canyonlands, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Moab Diner

Enjoy hearty breakfasts at this local favourite with something for everyone.
Drive about 10 minutes to the diner.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Canyonlands National Park Visit

Discover the fascinating landscapes of another incredible national park with scenic trails.
Drive about 30 minutes to the park entrance.
USD30 (vehicle fee), 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Island in the Sky

Pack a picnic to enjoy at one of the overlook areas within the park.
No travel necessary once inside the park.
USD20 (picnic supplies), 1 hour

2:30PM

Short Hike on Mesa Arch Trail

Take a family-friendly hike to see the famous Mesa Arch with stunning views.
Just a short drive inside the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Epic Viewpoints Drive

Traverse scenic viewpoints along the park roads for incredible photo opportunities.
Same area; no travel needed.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Moab Grill

Conclude your day with grill favourites in a relaxed atmosphere.
Drive back to Moab.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Canyonlands

Day 7: Capitol Reef National Park

Capitol Reef, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cowboy Grill

Enjoy a delicious Western-style breakfast to fuel your day.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Capitol Reef

Embark on an awe-inspiring drive towards Capitol Reef National Park.
Approximately 2-hour drive via UT-24.
Fuel-Cost, 2 hours

11:30AM

Capitol Reef National Park Visit

Explore unique rock formations and scenic overlooks as a family.
Drive to the park entrance.
USD30 (vehicle fee), 4 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at The Gifford House

Refuel with homemade treats available inside Capitol Reef for a picnic-style meal.
Inside the park area.
USD30, 1 hour

4:30PM

Hike the Hickman Bridge Trail

Take on a family-friendly hike to Hickman Bridge for stunning views.
Same area; no travel needed.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Torrey Grill

Enjoy a hearty dinner at Torrey Grill with local produce on the menu.
Drive a short distance to Torrey.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Capitol Reef

Day 8: Bryce Canyon Adventures

Bryce Canyon, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room

Start with a cowboy-themed breakfast buffet that's great for families.
Drive to nearby Panguitch to reach the restaurant.
USD60, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Bryce Canyon

Venture through scenic landscapes as you drive to Bryce Canyon National Park.
Driving takes 1.5 hours.
Fuel-Cost, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Bryce Canyon National Park Visit

Discover the park's unique hoodoo formations and breathtaking vistas.
Entrance is easy to access from the main road.
USD35 (vehicle fee), 4 hours

3:00PM

Picnic Lunch at Sunset Point

Enjoy a family picnic lunch surrounded by the incredible views of Bryce Canyon.
Bring your own picnic or buy at park vendor.
USD40 (for picnic supplies), 1 hour

4:00PM

Scenic Drive through Bryce Canyon

Experience breathtaking views along the scenic drive within the park.
Drive the park loop road.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bryce Canyon Lodge

Conclude your day at Bryce Canyon Lodge that offers delicious meals and family-friendly options.
Located within the park.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Bryce Canyon

Day 9: Thrill in Las Vegas

Las Vegas, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake House

Satisfy your morning hunger with a hearty breakfast at this local favourite.
Drive to the restaurant near the park entrance.
USD50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Las Vegas

Set off for a lively drive to Las Vegas, a 4-hour journey.
Take the US-93 S highway.
Fuel-Cost, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Enjoy a popular fast-food option that kids and adults adore.
Find an In-N-Out near the Strip.
USD40, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore the Strip

Wander the famous Las Vegas Strip and take in the sights with your family.
Walk along the Strip and explore various attractions.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Fountains of Bellagio

Catch the enchanting water show at the Bellagio and take memorable photos.
Short walk from the Strip exploration.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Rainforest Café

Dine in a tropical rainforest setting where families can enjoy delicious meals.
10-minute walk from the fountains.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Las Vegas

Day 10: Death Valley Wonders

Death Valley, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Cracked Egg

Have a sunny and energizing breakfast to kick off your day right.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD50, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Death Valley National Park

Venture into the unique landscapes of Death Valley for an unforgettable experience.
About a 2-hour drive.
Fuel-Cost, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore Furnace Creek

Visit the Furnace Creek Visitor Center to gain insights into the park's features.
Drive into the park.
USD30 (entrance fee), 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Furnace Creek Ranch

Enjoy a relaxing lunch at Furnace Creek Ranch with a scenic backdrop.
No travel necessary.
USD60, 1 hour

1:30PM

Dante's View

Experience breathtaking vistas from this famous overlook in the park.
Drive to Dante's View.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Badwater Basin

See the lowest point in North America and enjoy the unique landscape.
Short drive from Dante's View.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Amargosa Cafe

Conclude your day's adventure at Amargosa Cafe with homestyle meals.
Drive back to the restaurant.
USD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Death Valley

Day 11: Scenic Bakersfield

Bakersfield, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mad Egg

Enjoy a fabulous breakfast at this charming egg-centric eatery.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD50, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Bakersfield

Set off on a scenic 2-hour drive, taking in the California desert views.
Follow CA-58 W.
Fuel-Cost, 2 hours

11:00AM

Hike at Hart Park

Stretch your legs and unwind with a short hike at Hart Park.
Drive 15 minutes to the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Wool Growers Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Basque-style lunch in a family-friendly environment.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD70, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore California Living Museum

Visit this family-friendly museum showcasing the state's wildlife and natural history.
Drive about 10 minutes.
USD40, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at River Walk Park

Take a leisurely stroll or enjoy time at the park's playground.
Drive 10 minutes to the park.
Free, 1 hour

5:30PM

Dinner at The Basque Restaurant

Conclude your day with a hearty dinner at The Basque Restaurant.
Short drive from River Walk.
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Bakersfield

Day 12: Vibrant Los Angeles

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day with massive pancakes and tasty breakfast dishes at this famous spot.
Drive to the café in LA.
USD70, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Drive to Los Angeles

Embark on a 2-hour drive as you head to the entertainment capital of the world.
Take I-5 South to Los Angeles.
Fuel-Cost, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience the famous burger joint that the whole family will love.
Locate the nearest In-N-Out.
USD40, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Take photos and stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Park in a nearby parking garage and walk around.
Free, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit The Griffith Observatory

Enjoy marvelous views of the city skyline and the famous Hollywood sign.
Drive to Griffith Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Hard Rock Café

Cap off your day with a fun dining experience packed with rock and roll memorabilia.
Drive to the restaurant, about 20 minutes.
USD90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 13: Sun, Sand, and Sea

Santa Monica, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Rose Cafe

Start with a delightful breakfast at this popular eatery that offers fresh ingredients.
Drive to Santa Monica.
USD60, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Enjoy Santa Monica Pier

Have fun at the Santa Monica Pier with arcade games and rides that kids will love.
Park near the pier.
USD20 (for games and rides), 3 hours

12:30PM

Beach Picnic Lunch

Savour a casual beach picnic with sun, sand, and surf.
Find a spot on the beach.
USD40 (picnic supplies), 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Bike Ride Along the Boardwalk

Rent bikes and explore the scenic boardwalk along the beach.
Find a local bike rental shop nearby.
USD50 (for rentals), 2 hours

4:00PM

Relax at the Beach

Take time to relax, play in the waves, and enjoy the beautiful Californian sun.
Same beach area; no travel needed.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Blue Plate Taco

Conclude with a delicious dinner featuring beachside views.
Short walk from the beach.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Monica

Day 14: Arrival in San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Experience a hearty breakfast at this popular, family-friendly spot.
Drive to San Francisco.
USD70, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Golden Gate Bridge

Drive to the iconic Golden Gate Bridge and take family photos.
Directly access the bridge area.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Golden Gate Park

Stroll through the beautiful gardens and visit the California Academy of Sciences.
Short drive from the bridge.
USD45 (California Academy entry for family), 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Enjoy fresh seafood and family-friendly dining at the bustling Fisherman's Wharf.
Drive to the Wharf, about 20 minutes.
USD100, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Pier 39

Experience sea lions, shops, and attractions at Pier 39.
Short walk from lunch.
Free, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Cap off your incredible road trip with a meal overlooking the bay.
Drive 10 minutes to the restaurant.
USD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco
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