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

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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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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
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