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San Francisco to Yosemite: A 4-Day Road Trip Itinerary

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Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with Mama's famous French Toast and fresh fruit, setting you up for an exciting day of exploration.
Head to Mama's via a short Uber or a 15-minute walk.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take the ferry from Pier 33 to Alcatraz Island for a fascinating tour of the infamous former prison.
Purchase tickets online in advance and arrive 30 minutes early for boarding.
USD40, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl at Boudin Bakery, soaking up the lively harbor atmosphere.
Walk from Alcatraz ferry landing to Fisherman’s Wharf, about 15 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Golden Gate Park

Take a scenic drive to Golden Gate Park, where you can stroll through the gardens and visit the De Young Museum.
A quick 15-minute drive via Lombard St.
Free; Museum USD15, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cliff House

Dine with a stunning ocean view at The Cliff House, enjoying local seafood.
Drive 20 minutes from Golden Gate Park to The Cliff House.
USD50, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Take a night walk along Ocean Beach

Stroll along Ocean Beach, taking in the ocean sounds as you watch the sunset.
A quick 5-minute walk from The Cliff House.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 2: Journey to Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Dottie’s True Blue Café

Relish a hearty breakfast featuring the famous pancakes or huevos rancheros at this local favorite.
Drive 15 minutes from your accommodation to Dottie’s.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Yosemite

Hit the road early for Yosemite National Park, where nature beckons with its majestic landscapes.
Follow CA-120 E; the drive will take around 4 hours.
Fuel USD30, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Yosemite Valley Café

Grab a quick and delicious bite at the Yosemite Valley Café, featuring salads and sandwiches.
Located conveniently inside the park.
USD20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Yosemite Valley National Park sightseeing

Take in iconic views of El Capitan and Half Dome as you explore the valley via walking trails.
Use the park’s shuttle system to get around or drive to the vista points.
Park Entrance Fee USD35, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner while overlooking the stunning views of Yosemite Falls.
A 5-minute drive from your location in the park.
USD60, 2 hours

8:30PM

Star gazing at Tunnel View

End the day by admiring the starry sky at Tunnel View, a magnificent viewpoint in Yosemite.
Drive 30 minutes to Tunnel View from The Mountain Room.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 3: Explore Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, CA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Yosemite Lodge Restaurant

Fuel up with a selection of hearty breakfast options before another adventurous day in the park.
Drive 10 minutes from your accommodation.
USD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Hike to Vernal Fall

Embark on a hike to the breathtaking Vernal Fall, witnessing the stunning waterfalls up close.
Follow the Mist Trail, starting from the Happy Isles trailhead.
Free; Wear good hiking shoes., 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch Picnic

Pack a picnic lunch with local goodies to enjoy at the base of Vernal Fall.
Bring pre-packed food from the lodge in your backpack.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Glacier Point

Drive to Glacier Point to savor panoramic views of Yosemite Valley and Half Dome.
Approximately 30 minutes from the picnic spot.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit Mariposa Grove

See the giant sequoias of Mariposa Grove, immersing in the breathtaking beauty of nature’s giants.
20-minute drive from Glacier Point.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Tenaya Lodge

Dine at the Tenaya Lodge, where you can savor a gourmet meal while surrounded by stunning alpine scenery.
Drive to Tenaya Lodge, about 30 minutes away from Mariposa Grove.
USD55, 2 hours
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Day 4: Return to San Francisco

San Francisco, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at your accommodation

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or lodge to reflect on the beautiful trip thus far.
Conveniently on-site.
Included, 1 hour

9:00AM

Depart for San Francisco

Begin your journey back to the vibrant city of San Francisco, cherishing memories of your adventure.
Drive along CA-120 W, approximately 4 hours.
Fuel USD30, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Stinking Rose

Indulge in garlic-infused dishes at this unique restaurant in North Beach, San Francisco.
Located near Fisherman’s Wharf, drive 20 minutes from the city center.
USD40, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Painted Ladies

Stop by Alamo Square to see the iconic Painted Ladies, perfect for a classic photo-op.
A quick 15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Explore Mission District Murals

Dive into the colorful street art of the Mission District, a vibrant cultural experience.
Drive 15 minutes from Alamo Square.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Foreign Cinema

Wrap up your amazing road trip with an unforgettable dining experience at Foreign Cinema, featuring delicious cuisine and outdoor movie screenings.
A short 10-minute drive from the Mission District.
USD70, 2 hours
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