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10-Day Ultimate USA Road Trip Itinerary

Viewed by 253 travelers

Day 1: Explore NYC

New York City, USA

8:30AM

Breakfast at Clover Grocery

Start your adventure with a delicious breakfast sandwich and fresh coffee at Clover Grocery.
Located in the Lower East Side, easily accessible by subway.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Statue of Liberty

Take a ferry to Liberty Island and immerse yourself in the history of this American icon.
Ferry departs from Battery Park.
USD22, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen

Savor the famous pastrami sandwich and a side of pickles at this iconic deli.
A quick 15 minute walk from the ferry terminal.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Stroll through Central Park

Enjoy a leisurely walk through this expansive urban oasis, visiting landmarks like Bow Bridge.
Take the subway from the Lower East Side to Central Park.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Take in Times Square

Experience the bright lights and hustle of Times Square, a must-see for any NYC visitor.
A quick cab ride or a subway ride from Central Park.
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Carbone

Indulge in fine Italian-American cuisine at Carbone; reservations recommended.
Located in Greenwich Village, 15-minute taxi ride from Times Square.
USD60, 2 hours
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Day 2: History in Philly

Philadelphia, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sabrina's Cafe

Enjoy their famous stuffed French toast to fuel up for a day of exploration.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours from NYC to Philly.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Liberty Bell

See the iconic symbol of American independence and explore its museum.
Located in Independence National Historical Park.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Independence Hall

Tour the hall where the Declaration of Independence was debated and adopted.
Next door to the Liberty Bell.
Free (reservations recommended), 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Reading Terminal Market

Sample local delicacies at this bustling indoor market featuring various vendors.
A 10-minute walk from Independence Hall.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Philadelphia Museum of Art

Run up the famous 'Rocky Steps' and explore the impressive art collection.
A short drive or taxi ride from the market.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Butcher and Singer

Dine in an elegant steakhouse setting filled with old-world charm.
A 10-minute drive from the museum.
USD70, 2 hours
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Day 3: Capitol City Tour

Washington D.C., USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Founding Farmers

Start your day with locally sourced breakfast options in this popular D.C. eatery.
Drive about 2 hours from Philadelphia.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the National Mall

Wander past the monuments and memorials, including Lincoln and Washington.
Walking tour; the sights are close to each other.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Smithsonian Museums

Choose from the vast collection of world-class museums, including the National Air and Space Museum.
Easily accessible along the National Mall.
Free, 3 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill

Enjoy classic D.C. fare, including their famous raw bar, at this legendary restaurant.
A short walk from the Smithsonian Museums.
USD30, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Tour the U.S. Capitol Building

Explore the seat of the United States Congress, rich in historical significance.
Pre-book a guided tour; located at the eastern end of the National Mall.
Free (with reservation), 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Indulge in a fine dining experience with award-winning wine selections.
A short ride away from the Capitol.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Washington D.C.

Day 4: Southern Charm

Raleigh, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Big Ed's City Market Restaurant

Delight in Southern breakfast staples like biscuits and gravy at this local favorite.
Drive about 3 hours from D.C. to Raleigh.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences

Explore fascinating exhibits of wildlife and earth sciences.
Located in downtown Raleigh, easily reachable by car.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the North Carolina State Capitol

Witness the grandeur of this historic building that dates back to 1840.
Walking distance from the museum.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey

Savor fried chicken and waffles, a delightful taste of the South.
A short drive from the State Capitol.
USD20, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Explore William B. Umstead State Park

Take a scenic hike or stroll through this beautiful natural area.
Approximately a 20-minute drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Pit

Relish in authentic North Carolina BBQ with a modern twist.
Driving back into the city center.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Raleigh

Day 5: Coastal Beauty

Charleston, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Callie’s Hot Little Biscuit

Enjoy delicious homemade biscuits with various fillings to kickstart your day.
Drive approximately 4.5 hours from Raleigh to Charleston.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Waterfront Park

Stroll along the scenic waterfront and enjoy views of the Cooper River.
A short drive into downtown Charleston.
Free, 1 hour

10:45AM

Explore the Battery and Rainbow Row

Walk through this historic neighborhood known for its stunning antebellum mansions.
A leisurely walk from Waterfront Park.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Husk

Experience a menu focused on local ingredients and traditional Southern cuisine.
A short distance from the historic area.
USD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Fort Sumter National Monument

Learn about the history of the Civil War at this significant site.
Take a ferry from Liberty Square.
USD25, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Magwood's

Savor the fresh seafood and Southern comfort food offered at this cozy spot.
Back to downtown Charleston.
USD30, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Charleston

Day 6: Vibrant Atlanta

Atlanta, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Flying Biscuit Cafe

Enjoy some Southern-inspired breakfast favorites, known for their tasty biscuits.
Drive around 4 hours from Charleston to Atlanta.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Georgia Aquarium

Explore the largest aquarium in the world with incredible marine exhibits.
Located in downtown Atlanta.
USD40, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the World of Coca-Cola

Discover the history of the iconic beverage and enjoy tastings.
Adjacent to the aquarium.
USD17, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Ponce City Market

Grab a bite from various food vendors and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Short drive or rideshare from downtown.
USD20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park

Gain insight into the civil rights leader's life and legacy.
A short drive from the market.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Canoe

Dine by the river at this upscale restaurant known for farm-to-table dishes.
20-minute drive from the historical park.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Atlanta

Day 7: Jazz and Cuisine

New Orleans, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café du Monde

Start your day with beignets and chicory coffee at this iconic café.
Drive around 6 hours from Atlanta to New Orleans.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore the French Quarter

Stroll through the historic streets filled with colorful buildings and vibrant culture.
Walk around the French Quarter.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Visit Jackson Square

Relax in this famous park surrounded by street artists and live music.
Just steps away from the French Quarter.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Cochon

Relish hearty Cajun Southern dishes focusing on local ingredients.
Located in the Warehouse District, a short drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Take a Steamboat Cruise

Experience a scenic jazz cruise on the Mississippi River aboard an authentic steamboat.
A short drive to the river.
USD40, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Walk through the Garden District

Explore the beautiful historic architecture and lush gardens.
Take the streetcar from the riverfront.
USD3, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Emeril's

Indulge in a fine dining experience with unique New Orleans flavors.
A short taxi ride from the Garden District.
USD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in New Orleans

Day 8: Creative Capital

Austin, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Juan in a Million

Treat yourself to breakfast tacos at this local favorite with large portions.
Drive approximately 8 hours from New Orleans to Austin.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Texas State Capitol

Tour the impressive building and its grounds, which are steeper than the U.S. Capitol.
Downtown, a short drive.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Explore Barton Springs Pool

Relax in this natural spring-fed pool located in Zilker Park.
A 10-minute drive from the Capitol.
USD5, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Franklin Barbecue

Try the world-famous brisket at this legendary barbecue joint.
A short drive from the pool.
USD30, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit South Congress Avenue

Explore trendy shops and enjoy views of the Texas State Capitol.
Walking distance from Franklin Barbecue.
Free, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Uchi

Savor creative sushi dishes at this acclaimed Japanese restaurant.
Short drive from South Congress.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Austin

Day 9: Cultural Gems

Santa Fe, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pantry

Enjoy classic New Mexican breakfast options in a cozy atmosphere.
Drive approximately 10 hours from Austin to Santa Fe.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Canyon Road Arts District

Explore numerous galleries showcasing stunning local art and culture.
Located a short drive from the restaurant.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

Delve into the works of the iconic artist and her connection to the landscapes of the Southwest.
A short drive from Canyon Road.
USD12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Café Pasqual's

Savor organic dishes with Mexican and Southwestern influences at this colorful eatery.
Located downtown, easily reachable from the museum.
USD25, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Visit Santa Fe Plaza

Experience the heart of the city surrounded by shops and cultural landmarks.
A short walk from the café.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Geronimo

Indulge in exquisite New American cuisine in a lovely setting.
Easily navigable, a short drive from the plaza:
USD85, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Fe

Day 10: California Dreamin'

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sqirl

Relish in delicious breakfast bowls and pastries at this hip café.
Fly approximately 1.5 hours from Santa Fe to Los Angeles (book a morning flight).
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Griffith Park

Hike or enjoy the view from Griffith Observatory with stunning vistas of the city.
A short drive from Sqirl.
Free, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit the Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the iconic stars embedded in the sidewalk honoring legendary artists.
A short drive from Griffith Park.
Free, 1 hour

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience California’s famous fast-food chain known for its delicious burgers.
A few miles away from Hollywood.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Santa Monica Beach

Relax on the beach and take a stroll along the iconic pier.
A scenic drive along the coast from Hollywood.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Bestia

Cap off your trip with seasonally inspired Italian dishes at this acclaimed eatery.
Drive back towards the downtown area.
USD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
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