Adventure Through California, Oregon, and a Day at Mount Rainier

Day 1: Coastal Fun

Santa Monica, CA

10:00AM

Explore Santa Monica Pier

Begin your journey at the iconic Santa Monica Pier with its amusement park and beautiful ocean views.
Easily accessible from Santa Monica beachfront; park nearby.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Albright

Enjoy fresh seafood in a casual beachfront setting while overlooking the ocean.
Located on the pier.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit The Getty Center

Explore the breathtaking art collections, gardens, and stunning architecture at this world-renowned museum.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to The Getty Center from the pier.
Free (parking fee USD20), 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Venice Beach

Take a leisurely stroll at Venice Beach, visiting its famous boardwalk and unique shops.
Just a 15-minute drive from The Getty Center.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at C&O Trattoria

Indulge in delicious Italian fare in a lively setting known for its garlic knots.
A short drive back towards Santa Monica.
USD30, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: City Exploration

San Francisco, CA

8:00AM

Check out the Painted Ladies

View the iconic row of Victorian houses known as the Painted Ladies that offer the quintessential San Francisco photo op.
Drive roughly 6 hours north from Santa Monica to San Francisco.
Free, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Golden Gate Bridge

Walk or bike across the bridge and soak in the incredible views of the city and bay.
Drive approximately 30 minutes to the bridge.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Relish in clam chowder served in a sourdough bread bowl, a must-try at this waterfront spot.
Drive back 30 minutes to Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Alcatraz Island (Optional)

If time allows, take a ferry to the infamous island and discover its rich history.
Ferry terminal is nearby Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD45 (ferry price), 3 hours (if taken)

5:30PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Experience a unique dining atmosphere with delicious garlic-infused dishes.
Drive back to the restaurant, easily accessible from Alcatraz ferry.
USD50, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Nature's Wonders

Redwood National Park, CA

8:00AM

Drive to Redwood National Park

Travel 5 hours north on US-101 to see the majestic Redwood National Park.
Enjoy the scenic route.
Free, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Historic Requa Inn

Dine at this cozy inn that offers local specialties and stunning river views.
Located within the park area.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Visitor Center

Learn about the park's unique ecosystem and grab some souvenirs.
Easily accessible from the dining location.
Free, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore the Tall Trees Grove

Take a short stroll to witness some of the tallest trees in the world.
Follow signs in the park.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Chart Room Restaurant

Savor a mix of seafood and comfort food while enjoying views of the Pacific Ocean.
Located near Crescent City, just outside the park.
USD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Artistic Exploration

Ashland, OR

8:00AM

Drive to Ashland, OR

Enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive along beautiful landscapes as you head to Ashland.
Follow US-199 N and I-5 N.
Free, 2 hours

10:30AM

Visit the Ashland Art Gallery

Explore a variety of local art pieces and cultural exhibits at this charming gallery.
Easily accessible in downtown Ashland.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Liquid Assets

Savor locally sourced dishes alongside a fantastic wine selection in a cozy setting.
Located in downtown Ashland near the gallery.
USD25, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Attend a Local Performance

If timing aligns, catch a local production or performance and immerse yourself in the community.
Check listings for performances in town.
USD30 (ticket price), 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Peerless Hotel

Indulge in locally sourced cuisine featuring organic ingredients in a historic setting.
Short walk from the performance venue.
USD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: City of Roses

Portland, OR

8:00AM

Drive to Portland, OR

Travel approximately 5 hours heading north from Ashland to the vibrant city of Portland.
Take Interstate 5 N.
Free, 5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Food Trucks on Mississippi Ave

Taste a variety of delicious cuisines from Portland's famous food truck scene.
Drive to Mississippi Avenue for food truck pods.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Washington Park

Enjoy the beautiful gardens, trails, and scenic views offered by this expansive urban park.
Easily accessible from the lunch location.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Powell's City of Books

Experience the excitement of the world's largest independent bookstore and browse its vast selection.
Just a short drive from Washington Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Sel Gris

Indulge in fine dining featuring seasonal ingredients and a fabulous wine list.
Only a short drive from Powell's.
USD70, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Natural Beauty

Columbia River Gorge, OR

8:00AM

Drive to Columbia River Gorge

Journey about 1-hour eastward from Portland to the breathtaking Columbia River Gorge.
Take I-84 E.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Multnomah Falls

Witness the stunning 620-foot waterfall, one of the most photographed spots in the country.
Located right off I-84.
Free, 1 hour

10:30AM

Lunch at Multnomah Falls Lodge

Enjoy dining with picturesque views of the falls, providing a perfect backdrop.
Easily walkable from the falls.
USD25, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Explore the Historic Columbia River Highway

Drive along this scenic highway, stopping at various viewpoints and lookout points.
Follow signage along the highway.
Free, 3 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Celilo Restaurant and Bar

Indulge in locally sourced dishes and stunning views of the Columbia River.
Return towards Hood River, where the restaurant is located.
USD45, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Charming Town

Bend, OR

8:00AM

Drive to Bend, OR

Travel approximately 2.5 hours south from Columbia River Gorge to the charming town of Bend.
Follow US-97 S.
Free, 2.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore the High Desert Museum

Immerse yourself in art, wildlife exhibits, and cultural performances at this engaging museum.
Located just off the highway when entering Bend.
USD15, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at 10 Barrel Brewing Co.

Relax and enjoy a casual meal with local craft brews in a lively atmosphere.
Drive to downtown Bend.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit the Deschutes River

Take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the beautiful riverbanks of the Deschutes.
Public access points are available throughout downtown.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Pine Tavern

Enjoy riverside dining with delicious American cuisine and local flavors.
Short drive or walk from the riverfront.
USD35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Capital City

Olympia, WA

8:00AM

Drive to Olympia, WA

Head approximately 3 hours to the capital city of Washington from Bend via I-5 N.
Follow signs for I-5 N.
Free, 3 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Washington State Capitol

Discover the stunning architecture and fascinating history of the Washington State Capitol.
Driving distance from the highway; easily accessible.
Free (donations welcome), 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Mediterranean Breeze

Savor Mediterranean flavors in a charming restaurant close to downtown Olympia.
A quick drive or short walk from the capitol.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Hands On Children's Museum

Enjoy interactive, family-friendly exhibits that will engage visitors of all ages.
Just a short walk from the restaurant.
USD12, 2 hours

4:30PM

Stroll along the Olympia Waterfront

Take in the beautiful views of the sound and surrounding landscape as you meander along the waterfront.
A short walk from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Anthony's Hearthfire Grill

Enjoy fresh, local seafood while overlooking the beautiful waterfront.
Drive about 10 minutes from the waterfront.
USD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Majestic Mountains

Mount Rainier National Park, WA

8:00AM

Drive to Mount Rainier National Park

Travel approximately 2 hours from Olympia to Mount Rainier National Park, enjoying the scenic views along the way.
Follow I-5 N and WA-706 E.
Free, 2 hours

10:00AM

Explore Paradise Area

Head to the Paradise area for stunning views, wildflower fields, and possible snow in summer.
Follow signs to Paradise within the park.
Entry fee USD30 per vehicle, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Paradise Inn

Enjoy a light lunch with breathtaking views of the mountain at this historic lodge.
Located within the Paradise area.
USD25, 1 hour

1:00PM

Hiking the Skyline Trail

Take on a popular 5.5-mile loop with incredible views of Mount Rainier and the surrounding valleys.
Trailhead starts near Paradise Inn.
Free, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Copper Creek Inn

Savor a hearty meal at this rustic inn known for its comfort food after a day of hiking.
Approximately 30 minutes from the park area.
USD40, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Final Day in the City

Seattle, WA

8:00AM

Drive to Seattle, WA

Conclude your adventure with a 2-hour drive to Seattle; the last leg of your journey.
Follow I-5 N towards Seattle.
Free, 2 hours

10:00AM

Visit Pike Place Market

Explore this iconic market filled with colorful vendors and the famous fish throwers.
Located in downtown Seattle.
Free, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Pike Place Chowder

Taste their award-winning clam chowder served in fresh sourdough bread bowls.
On the market premises.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Walk Along the Seattle Waterfront

Stroll along the waterfront, taking in the views of Elliott Bay and the Seattle skyline.
Easily walkable from Pike Place Market.
Free, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Farewell at The Walrus and the Carpenter

End your trip with a fantastic seafood meal at one of Seattle’s top culinary destinations.
Drive to Ballard for a scenic conclusion.
USD75, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability