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Epic American National Parks Road Trip: CVG to Redwood Forest, Yellowstone, and Back

Viewed by 417 travelers

Day 1: Cincinnati Adventure

Cincinnati, OH

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Jay Cafe

Start your trip with a delicious breakfast, enjoying their famous pancakes and fresh coffee.
Located downtown Cincinnati, easily accessible before hitting the road.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Louisville

Hit the road and enjoy the Kentucky scenery while heading to your next exciting destination.
I-71 S, approx. 1.5 hours drive.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Explore Louisville Slugger Museum

Get a glimpse into the history of baseball and see how bats are made.
5-minute walk from parking.
USD16, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Jack Fry's

Indulge in a classic Southern meal with homemade cornbread and fried chicken.
Located a short drive from the museum.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30PM

Drive to St. Louis

Continue west along I-64 while savoring the beautiful landscape.
Mix of I-64 W and I-70 W, approximately 4 hours.
USD0, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pappy's Smokehouse

Enjoy some of the best BBQ ribs in St. Louis to wrap up your travels for the day.
Located nearby your hotel.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Louisville to St. Louis

Louisville, KY

8:00AM

Breakfast at the Brown Hotel

Start your day with their famous Hot Brown in this historic hotel.
Downtown access.
USD35, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Frazier History Museum

Discover Kentucky's history through exhibits and artifacts.
Short drive; parking available.
USD10, 2 hours

11:30AM

Drive to St. Louis

Head out towards the Gateway City, with exciting attractions await.
Follow I-64 W and I-70 W; approximately 1.5 hours.
USD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Citygarden

Enjoy a casual lunch at this lush urban park with food trucks and beautiful art.
12-minute drive from arrival hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Gateway Arch

Take a tram ride to the top for panoramic views of St. Louis.
Located downtown.
USD16, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Tony's

Savor authentic Italian dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
Less than a 10-minute walk from the Arch.
USD45, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: St. Louis to Kansas City

St. Louis, MO

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Mud House

Start your day with a fresh brewed coffee and a homemade biscuit.
A short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kansas City

Head out towards Kansas City while enjoying smooth highways.
Follow US-40 W; around 4 hours drive.
USD0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Enjoy award-winning barbeque sandwiches and fries.
Near downtown Kansas City.
USD25, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art

Experience art collections that span over 5,000 years at this premier museum.
Parking available at the museum.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Indulge in a fine dining experience with perfectly aged steaks.
Short drive from the museum.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Kansas City to Denver

Kansas City, MO

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Watch

Enjoy a wholesome breakfast with freshly squeezed juice.
Located near your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Denver

Embark on a beautiful road trip to the Mile High City, approx. 8 hours away.
Take I-70 W straight to Denver.
USD0, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Capital Grille

Enjoy a delightful steak dinner to recover from a long drive.
Located in downtown Denver.
USD100, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Denver Exploration

Denver, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Enjoy a vibrant breakfast atmosphere with a variety of delicious options.
Nearby your hotel.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Red Rocks Park and Amphitheatre

Hike through stunning trails and enjoy the breathtaking views.
Drive about 30 minutes from Denver.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cherry Cricket

Sample delicious burgers at this iconic local spot.
Back to Denver, about 30 minutes drive.
USD20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Denver Museum of Nature & Science

Explore engaging exhibits that showcase Colorado's natural wonders.
5-minute drive from the restaurant.
USD20, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Rioja

End your day with exquisite Mediterranean cuisine in a refined atmosphere.
Located in LoDo District.
USD75, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Denver to Grand Junction

Denver, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Fuel up with a breakfast that includes a variety of egg dishes.
Located close to your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Grand Junction

Head to Grand Junction known for its beautiful landscapes; about a 4-hour drive.
Continue west on I-70.
USD0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Bin 707 Foodbar

Savor seasonal dishes and local produce at this artisanal restaurant.
Located downtown.
USD30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Colorado National Monument

Marvel at stunning vistas and orange-hued cliffs in this remarkable area.
A short drive from lunch.
USD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Ale House

Relax with a drink and casual American fare to unwind after a long day.
Back to the city center; short drive.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Grand Junction to Salt Lake City

Grand Junction, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Brown Cow Cafe

Enjoy a hearty breakfast with friendly service before heading out.
Local favorite spot.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Salt Lake City

Journey through the scenic mountain routes to Salt Lake; about a 4-hour drive.
Continue on I-70 W; take I-15 N.
USD0, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Red Iguana

Savor some authentic Mexican enchiladas at this beloved local restaurant.
A short drive from downtown parking.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Temple Square

Visit this beautiful area and see the stunning Salt Lake Temple.
Walkable from lunch.
USD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Copper Onion

Experience fresh, local ingredients in this modern American spot.
Not far from Temple Square.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Salt Lake City to Reno

Salt Lake City, UT

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Park Cafe

Fuel up with a delicious meal right next to Liberty Park.
Simple drive to the cafe.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Reno

Travel across beautiful landscapes to sunny Reno; about a 7-hour drive.
Take I-80 W westbound.
USD0, 7 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Depot Craft Brewery Distillery

Unwind with craft beer and local distillery offerings with delicious food.
Located downtown Reno.
USD50, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Salt Lake City

Day 9: Reno to Redwood National Park

Reno, NV

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cozy Tea Cart

Enjoy a delightful, homemade breakfast with some great tea options.
Short trip from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Redwood National Park

Head towards the majestic Redwoods, about a 4.5-hour drive along scenic routes.
Take US-395 N; follow directions to the park.
USD0, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Crescent Beach Motel Cafe

Grab a cozy bite and take in the coastal views; a perfect spot close to the park.
Located near the entrance to the park.
USD25, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Redwood National Park

Delve into the awe-inspiring forest trails, towering trees and coastal views.
Various trail options based on your preference.
USD0, 3 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Lost Man

Enjoy fresh seafood and local dishes after a day of exploration.
Located just outside the park's entrance.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Full Day in Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Elk Prairie Campground

Use the campsite cooking facilities or enjoy a simple breakfast to energize for the day.
Campsite amenities.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Hiking in the National Park

Spend the day exploring various trails through the stunning redwood trees.
Choose trails like Fern Canyon or Tall Trees Grove.
USD0, 5 hours

2:00PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Pack a lunch from the cafe or prepare something at the campsite to enjoy amidst nature.
Quote supplies from previous meals.
USD20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Kuchel Visitor Center

Learn more about the park's flora and fauna, and enjoy the scenic overlooks.
Drive a short distance.
USD0, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at The Lost Man

A repeat visit to relish another delightful dinner with ocean views.
Back to the restaurant.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Redwood National Park

Day 11: Travel to Yellowstone National Park

Redwood National Park, CA

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Crescent Beach Motel Cafe

Fill up on breakfast before hitting the road to Yellowstone.
Less than 5 minutes away from the park.
USD25, 1 hour

8:30AM

Drive to Yellowstone National Park

Embark on a long drive towards Yellowstone, a journey of approximately 17 hours.
Use I-5 N and I-90 E, multiple stops along the way.
USD0, 17 hours

8:30AM (Day 12)

Lunch at Various Stops

Plan picnic-style lunches during the long drive and embrace adventure.
Bring snacks or target local diners.
USD60, 3 hours over travel breaks
Find Hotels in Redwood National Park

Day 12: Explore Yellowstone National Park

Yellowstone National Park, WY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Lodge

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your lodge to fuel your exploration.
Available at your accommodation.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Old Faithful Geyser

Witness the iconic geyser erupt, a hallmark experience of Yellowstone.
Drive to the geothermal area.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Old Faithful Lodge

Dine at this historic lodge while enjoying views of the geyser.
Close to Old Faithful.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Explore Grand Prismatic Spring

Marvel at vibrant colors and stunning scenery at this iconic hot spring.
Drive to Midway Geyser Basin.
USD0, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Yellowstone Lake

Take a serene stroll around the shores of Yellowstone Lake.
Drive to the lake area.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Lake Yellowstone Hotel

Savor an elegant dinner while overlooking the idyllic lake.
Located at the lake.
USD60, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Yellowstone National Park

Day 13: Yellowstone Continued

Yellowstone National Park, WY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Lodge

Enjoy another hearty breakfast as you prepare for more adventures.
Available at your accommodation.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs

Explore the unique terraced formations and vibrant colors.
Drive to Mammoth.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Mammoth Hot Springs Dining Room

Dine with stunning views while relishing local cuisine.
Close to the springs.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Visit the Lamar Valley

Spot wildlife such as bison and elk in this beautiful valley.
Drive to Lamar.
USD0, 2.5 hours

4:00PM

Explore the Beartooth Highway

Enjoy breathtaking mountain views along this scenic route.
Head south from the park for gorgeous landscapes.
USD0, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Local Lodge

End the day with a relaxed dinner and share stories from your day's adventures.
Available at your accommodation.
USD40, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Yellowstone National Park

Day 14: Return to CVG

Yellowstone National Park, WY

8:00AM

Breakfast at Local Lodge

Enjoy your final breakfast at the lodge, reminiscing about your travels.
Available at accommodation.
USD20, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Cincinnati

Begin the journey back home, taking in the beautiful landscapes one last time.
Diverse routes for a good travel experience.
USD0, 17 hours with planned stops

12:00PM

Lunch at Various Stops

Flexible stops along the way; enjoy local diners or pack lunches.
Bring snack options to ease the travel.
USD60, 3 hours over travel breaks
Find Hotels in Yellowstone National Park
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Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your From CVG to Redwood Forest then to Yellowstone then back to CVG Trip

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