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Family-Friendly Road Trip: San Jose to Shasta Lake, CA

Viewed by 59 travelers

Day 1: Travel North

San Jose, CA on November 25, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Bill's Café

Start your trip with a delicious breakfast at Bill's Café known for its fluffy pancakes and hearty omelets.
Located downtown and easy to find, it’s a great way to fuel up for the road ahead.
USD25, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Departure to Redding

Hit the road to Redding; enjoy the scenic drive through the Sierra foothills and the picturesque countryside.
Take US-101 N to I-5 N; approximately 2.5 hours of drive time.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at The Fox and Goose Public House

Enjoy a delightful lunch featuring British pub fare, perfect for re-energizing mid-journey.
Located conveniently in Redding, it’s easy to stop off as you arrive.
USD55, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Visit Turtle Bay Exploration Park

Explore the beautiful Turtle Bay, which includes a museum, botanical gardens, and wildlife exhibits - perfect for family engagement.
Just a short drive from lunch; follow the signs to Turtle Bay Park.
USD60 (family ticket), 2 hours

3:00 PM

Check-in at Oxford Suites Redding

Relax and settle into your family-friendly accommodation equipped with nice amenities including a pool.
Just a 10-minute drive from Turtle Bay.
USD180, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Dinner at Jack's Grill

Enjoy a hearty meal at Jack's Grill, specializing in steaks and burgers, perfect for the whole family to enjoy.
Located near your hotel, just a 5-minute drive.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Relax at Hotel Pool

Unwind after a day of travel and exploration by taking a dip in the hotel pool.
Just a short walk from your room.
USD0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in San Jose

Day 2: Explore Shasta Lake

Redding, CA on November 26, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Bar

Begin your day with a cozy breakfast at The Coffee Bar, known for its pastries and freshly brewed coffee.
It’s a quick drive from your hotel.
USD30, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Shasta Lake

Take a scenic journey to Shasta Lake, known for its stunning views and family activities.
Follow CA-44 E; the drive takes about 30 minutes.
USD0, 30 minutes

10:00 AM

Visit Shasta Dam

Visit one of the tallest dams in the United States and learn about its history with the family-friendly tours.
Follow signs upon arrival at Shasta Lake.
USD0, 1 hour

11:00 AM

Boat Rental at Shasta Lake

Rent a pontoon boat and enjoy the beautiful waters of Shasta Lake while exploring, swimming, or picnicking.
Rental services available at the marina.
USD150, 3 hours

2:00 PM

Lunch Picnic on the Water

Pack a picnic for your boat trip and enjoy lunch on the water surrounded by scenic views.
Prepare snacks at the start and bring refreshments aboard.
USD40, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Swim or Explore Shasta Caverns

Choose to either take a dip at a designated area or visit the Shasta Caverns to explore unique geological formations.
Drive to Shasta Caverns if chosen, approximately 20-minute drive from Shasta Lake.
USD40 (caverns tickets), 2 hours

5:30 PM

Dinner at Phindy’s Phauna

Enjoy a farm-to-table dinner at Phindy’s, focusing on local ingredients in a welcoming environment.
Located near the marina; great choice after a full day.
USD75, 1.5 hours

7:00 PM

Stargazing at Shasta Lake

Wrap up the day with some stargazing; the clear lakeside skies provide a great view of the stars.
Set outside at a spot by the lake.
USD0, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Redding

Day 3: Return Home

Shasta Lake, CA on November 27, 2024

8:00 AM

Breakfast at the hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at Oxford Suites with plenty of family-friendly options.
Located right at the hotel for convenience.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park

Take a short tour of Lassen Volcanic National Park, showcasing volcanic landscapes and beautiful nature hikes.
A 45-minute drive from Shasta Lake, following CA-44 W.
USD20 (vehicle pass), 2 hours

11:00 AM

Pack Lunch Picnic

Have an enjoyable family picnic amidst nature with packed lunches prepared for the road.
Choose a scenic location at the park.
USD30, 1 hour

12:00 PM

Drive Back to San Jose

Begin your journey back home along I-5 S, reflecting on the adventures filled with family fun.
Follow I-5 S for a direct route; prepare for about 3.5 hours of driving.
USD0, 3.5 hours

4:00 PM

Break for Late Lunch/Dinner at Harris Ranch

Enjoy a delicious meal at Harris Ranch Restaurant, famous for its steaks and homey vibe.
Located along I-5 on your return trip home.
USD80, 1.5 hours

5:30 PM

Continue Back to San Jose

Wrap up your road trip, filled with cherished family memories and plans for your next adventure.
Finish the journey home, approximately 1.5 hours from Harris Ranch.
USD0, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Shasta Lake
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