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12-Day Family-Friendly Luxury Adventure Road Trip in the USA

Viewed by 184 travelers

Day 1: Arrival and Explore

San Francisco, California on September 12, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start the day with one of Mama's famous French toast dishes at this cozy spot.
Walking distance from Fisherman's Wharf.
USD 20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Golden Gate Park

Stroll through the scenic pathways of Golden Gate Park, stopping by the Japanese Tea Garden.
Drive or take an Uber to the park.
USD 10, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cliff House

Enjoy a relaxing lunch while overlooking the ocean at this iconic restaurant.
Drive to the Cliff House.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Exploring Alcatraz Island

Take a scenic ferry to explore the infamous Alcatraz prison.
Ferry departs from Pier 33.
USD 50, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Foreign Cinema

End your day with a delicious meal while enjoying a classic movie screening in this unique outdoor setting.
Short drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 2: City Highlights

San Francisco, California on September 13, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mill

Enjoy freshly made toasts and coffee while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Short drive from your accommodation.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

California Academy of Sciences

Explore the aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum all in one place.
Drive to Golden Gate Park.
USD 40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Park Chow

Enjoy a delicious variety of American dishes in a family-friendly environment.
Walk to Park Chow.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Painted Ladies

Visit the iconic Victorian houses with a perfect view of the city skyline.
Short drive to Alamo Square.
USD 0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Indulge in a variety of dishes and desserts with a view of Union Square.
Short drive to Union Square.
USD 80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 3: Nature Break

Yosemite National Park, California on September 14, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

A roadside diner offering big portions to fuel your day of adventure ahead.
Drive towards Yosemite.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Yosemite Valley

Take in the breathtaking vistas and wildlife as you hike the valley's trails.
Continue your drive to Yosemite National Park.
USD 35, 4 hours

1:00PM

Picnic Lunch in Yosemite

Enjoy a prepared picnic lunch among the towering pines and tranquil rivers.
Find a scenic spot in Yosemite.
USD 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Yosemite Falls

Witness the grandeur of one of North America's tallest waterfalls.
Short hike from the parking area.
USD 0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Check-in and Dinner at Tenaya Lodge

Relax in luxury with dinner at the on-site restaurant after a day of adventure.
Drive to Tenaya Lodge.
USD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Yosemite National Park

Day 4: Scenic Drive

Monterey, California on September 15, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Tenaya Lodge

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before hitting the road.
At Tenaya Lodge.
USD 25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Monterey via CA-140 W

Enjoy breathtaking views as you drive toward the coast.
Follow CA-140 W to Highway 1.
USD 0, 3.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Savor fresh seafood at one of the famed restaurants along Cannery Row.
Once in Monterey, head to Cannery Row.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Experience the wonders of marine life at this world-renowned aquarium.
Walk to the aquarium from lunch.
USD 50, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Sandy's Beach Grill

Enjoy casual dining with views of the ocean as the sun sets.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 5: Coastal Adventures

Big Sur, California on September 16, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

Enjoy a delicious breakfast before heading to Big Sur.
Short drive from your hotel.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Big Sur

Experience stunning views of the coastline along Highway 1.
Take Highway 1 South towards Big Sur.
USD 0, 1 hour

11:00AM

Visit McWay Falls

Hike to one of the most stunning waterfalls that flows directly into the ocean.
Short drive from Big Sur.
USD 0, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Nepenthe

Dine with breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean at this iconic restaurant.
Short drive to Nepenthe.
USD 70, 2 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Pfeiffer Beach

Enjoy the unique purple sand and striking rock formations at this beautiful beach.
Drive to Pfeiffer Beach.
USD 0, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Post Ranch Inn

Splurge on an unforgettable dining experience with local gourmet dishes and stellar views.
Short drive to the inn.
USD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Big Sur

Day 6: Beach and Wine

Santa Barbara, California on September 17, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Rose Cafe

Enjoy fresh, locally-sourced dishes with a touch of California cuisine.
Drive out of Big Sur towards Santa Barbara.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Santa Barbara via Highway 1

Bask in the coastal views as you make your way to Santa Barbara.
Take Highway 1 South to Santa Barbara.
USD 0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Santa Barbara Zoo

Meet with local wildlife and enjoy the stunning views of the ocean from the hills.
Drive to the zoo.
USD 25, 2 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Lark

Savor locally-sourced dishes in a rustic-chic setting at this popular eatery.
Short drive from the zoo.
USD 75, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Wine Tasting in Funk Zone

Experience wine tasting at some of the best local wineries in the artistic Funk Zone.
Walk or drive to local wineries.
USD 60, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bodega

Enjoy inventive seafood and cocktails at this beachfront restaurant.
Drive to Bodega.
USD 80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 7: City Life and Culture

Los Angeles, California on September 18, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Nick & Stef's Steakhouse

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at this popular downtown steakhouse.
Drive to Los Angeles.
USD 35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the California Science Center

Explore interactive exhibits, including the Space Shuttle Endeavour.
Drive to the science center.
USD 15, 2.5 hours

12:15PM

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Tantalize your taste buds at dozens of food vendors in this historic market.
Short drive from the science center.
USD 45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Walk around the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the stars as you take in the atmosphere of Hollywood Boulevard.
Drive to Hollywood Boulevard.
USD 0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill

Dine at this iconic Hollywood restaurant that has been serving classic dishes since 1919.
Drive to Musso & Frank.
USD 100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 8: Sunshine and Surf

San Diego, California on September 19, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Indulge in a modern twist on comfort food at this trendy eatery.
Drive to San Diego.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Balboa Park

Explore beautiful gardens, museums, and the famous San Diego Zoo.
Drive to Balboa Park.
USD 0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Prado at Balboa Park

Enjoy a lovely lunch with views of the gardens and fountains.
Eat at The Prado before heading back out.
USD 70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Relax at La Jolla Cove

Spend the afternoon soaking up the sun and watching sea lions at this stunning cove.
Drive to La Jolla.
USD 0, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at George's at the Cove

Dine with ocean views in one of the most popular coastal restaurants.
Short drive to George's.
USD 100, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 9: Vibrant City Life

Las Vegas, Nevada on September 20, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Buffet at Wynn

Indulge in an extravagant breakfast buffet to start your day.
Drive to Las Vegas.
USD 40, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore The Strip

Walk along the famous Las Vegas Strip, exploring delightful shops and attractions.
Short drive to The Strip.
USD 0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar

Savor Southern comfort food in a stylish setting.
Walk to Yardbird.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit The High Roller

Enjoy breathtaking views of the Las Vegas skyline from the world’s tallest observation wheel.
Walk to The High Roller.
USD 30, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Twist

Experience luxury dining at Twist, featuring French cuisine and stunning views of the city.
Walk to the restaurant in the Waldorf Astoria.
USD 150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Las Vegas

Day 10: Explore Nature

Zion National Park, Utah on September 21, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Grab a nutritious breakfast before heading out to Zion.
Drive towards Zion National Park.
USD 20, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Zion National Park

Marvel at the stunning scenery as you approach one of America’s most beautiful parks.
Take Interstate 15 to US-9.
USD 0, 2.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Zion Canyon

Take a shuttle or hike through the breathtaking canyon landscape.
Use the park shuttle or hiking trails.
USD 35, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Zion Canyon Brew Pub

Relax with lunch after exploring the scenic canyon.
Short walk from the canyon trails.
USD 60, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Weeping Rock

Take a short hike to this stunning natural feature that's worth the effort.
Drive to the introductory trailhead.
USD 0, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Spotted Dog Cafe

Finish the day with cozy American dishes at this charming cafe.
Drive to the cafe in Springdale.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Zion National Park

Day 11: Dramatic Landscapes

Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah on September 22, 2024

7:00AM

Breakfast at Oscar's Cafe

Start your day with hearty breakfast options before heading to Bryce Canyon.
Drive to Bryce Canyon.
USD 25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Bryce Canyon National Park

Discover the unique rock formations on the way to Bryce Canyon.
Take UT-63 East.
USD 0, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Explore Bryce Canyon

Hike along the Rim Trail for stunning viewpoints of the amphitheater.
Use park shuttle or hike from viewpoints.
USD 0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Bryce Canyon Lodge

Enjoy a relaxing meal in a beautiful lodge setting.
Dine at the lodge.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Sunrise Point

Don't miss the phenomenal sunrise views at this must-see point.
Drive to Sunrise Point.
USD 0, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Stone Hearth Grille

Finish your adventurous day with a hearty meal at this local favorite.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Bryce Canyon National Park

Day 12: Cultural Immersion

Salt Lake City, Utah on September 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Copper Onion

Enjoy a local breakfast with a mix of flavors and fresh ingredients.
Drive towards Salt Lake City.
USD 30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Temple Square

Explore the historic center of Salt Lake City, including the magnificent Salt Lake Temple.
Drive to Temple Square.
USD 0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Red Iguana

Savor some of the best Mexican food in the city at this popular eatery.
Short drive to Red Iguana.
USD 50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit Utah Museum of Fine Arts

Explore an incredible collection of art from various cultures and time periods.
Drive to the museum.
USD 15, 2 hours

4:00PM

Visit Tracy Aviary

Enjoy the beautiful park and see a variety of exotic birds in this unique aviary.
Drive to Tracy Aviary.
USD 10, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Farewell Dinner at The Trace

Conclude your amazing road trip with a celebratory dinner featuring a farm-to-table menu.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD 90, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Salt Lake City
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