Plantrip
Sign In
Home
Tools
Create Itinerary
Step-by-Step Builder
Packing List
Travel Expert
Trip Cost Estimator
Weather Expert
Deals
Guides
Pricing
About
About Plantrip
News
Partner Dispatches
Help
Travel Glossary
Sign In
Home
10-Day Ultimate West Coast and Chicago Adventure
Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Get new itinerary
Initializing...
0%
Cancel
Step 1 Outline Preview:
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email
10-Day Ultimate West Coast and Chicago Adventure
Viewed by 56 travelers
Save This Itinerary
Share
Day 1: Explore the Capital
Washington DC, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Founding Farmers
Start your day with a delicious farmhouse breakfast at Founding Farmers, celebrated for its locally sourced ingredients.
Located in Foggy Bottom, it's a short ride from most downtown hotels.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit the National Mall
Stroll along the National Mall and marvel at iconic monuments such as the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.
Walking distance from Founding Farmers, head south towards the National Mall.
Free, 2.5 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill
Indulge in a classic American lunch at Old Ebbitt Grill, known for its oysters and historic charm.
A short walk from the National Mall, across from the White House.
USD30, 1 hour
1:30PM
Explore the Smithsonian Museums
Choose a Smithsonian Museum like the National Air and Space Museum to dive into incredible exhibits.
Museums surrounding the National Mall accessible by foot.
Free, 3 hours
5:00PM
Dinner at The Capital Grille
Enjoy an elegant dinner at The Capital Grille, famous for its dry-aged steaks and extensive wine list.
A quick ride or a 15-minute walk from the museums.
USD65, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Washington DC
Day 2: Monuments and History
Washington DC, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien
Savor a French-style breakfast with fresh pastries and organic breads at Le Pain Quotidien.
A short 10-minute walk from your hotel near the National Mall.
USD15, 1 hour
9:30AM
Tour the U.S. Capitol
Join a guided tour of the U.S. Capitol building to learn about legislative history.
Walking distance from breakfast; entry requires a prior reservation.
Free, 1.5 hours
11:00AM
Visit the Library of Congress
Explore the world's largest library and see its stunning architecture and exhibits.
A short walk from the Capitol.
Free, 1.5 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at District Taco
Taste fresh and authentic tacos at District Taco, a local favorite for lunch.
Head back towards Foggy Bottom by car or ride.
USD15, 1 hour
2:30PM
Visit the National Gallery of Art
Admire an impressive array of art collections at the National Gallery of Art.
Located on the National Mall, just a short walk away.
Free, 2 hours
4:30PM
Explore Georgetown
Wander through historic Georgetown, exploring its unique shops and waterfront views.
Drive or take a metro to Georgetown.
Free, 2 hours
6:30PM
Dinner at Fiola Mare
Dine on exquisite seafood while enjoying stunning views of the Potomac River at Fiola Mare.
Located along the Georgetown waterfront.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Washington DC
Day 3: Flight to Los Angeles
Los Angeles, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at DGS Delicatessen
Enjoy a hearty breakfast with a unique twist at the renowned DGS Delicatessen, where Jewish delicacies meet modern fare.
Located downtown, a short taxi from your hotel.
USD25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Leisurely Stroll in Rock Creek Park
Take a morning walk in the scenic Rock Creek Park, absorbing nature before departure.
Drive to Rock Creek Park, easy parking available.
Free, 1.5 hours
11:00AM
Return to hotel and pack
Head back to the hotel, check out and get ready for the flight.
Easy drive back to downtown.
Free, 1 hour
12:30PM
Flight from Washington DC to Los Angeles
Catch your flight to Los Angeles to start the West Coast leg of your journey.
Fly from DCA to LAX, approximately 6-hour flight.
USD150, 6 hours
4:30PM
Check-in at Hotel in Los Angeles
Arrive at your hotel in Los Angeles and get settled in before exploring.
Take a taxi or rideshare from LAX to your hotel.
USD50, 1 hour
6:00PM
Dinner at Bestia
Savor an Italian fine dining experience at Bestia, known for its house-made charcuterie and pizzas.
A short drive from your hotel in downtown LA.
USD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
Day 4: Hollywood and Beaches
Los Angeles, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe
Start the day with decadent pancakes and brunch classics at The Griddle Cafe in Hollywood.
Drive or ride over to Hollywood near Sunset Boulevard.
USD20, 1.5 hours
10:00AM
Walk the Hollywood Walk of Fame
Stroll along the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and snap pictures with your favorite stars.
Just a short walk from the Griddle Cafe.
Free, 1 hour
11:30AM
Visit the TCL Chinese Theatre
Explore the handprints of the stars at the legendary TCL Chinese Theatre.
Adjacent to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, easy access.
USD20, 1 hour
12:30PM
Lunch at In-N-Out Burger
Experience California's favorite fast food at the iconic In-N-Out Burger.
Drive to the nearest In-N-Out location, about 15-minute drive.
USD10, 1 hour
2:00PM
Relax at Santa Monica Beach
Spend a few hours soaking up the sun at Santa Monica Beach.
About a 30-minute drive from In-N-Out.
Free, 3 hours
5:30PM
Dinner at The Lobster
Dine with ocean views and fresh seafood at The Lobster in Santa Monica.
Located right at the Santa Monica Pier.
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles
Day 5: San Diego Awaits
San Diego, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Breakfast Republic
Kick-off the day with a breakfast filled with innovate dishes like French Toast Flight at Breakfast Republic.
Drive to San Diego, early morning commute takes about 2 hours.
USD25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Balboa Park
Immerse yourself in the culture and beauty of Balboa Park, home to numerous museums and gardens.
Once in San Diego, the park is centrally located.
Free, 2 hours
11:30AM
Explore the San Diego Zoo
Discover the amazing wildlife at the world-famous San Diego Zoo, a must-visit for animal lovers.
Located within Balboa Park, combined ticket options available.
USD65, 3 hours
3:00PM
Lunch at The Cottage
Relax at The Cottage with a delightful lunch featuring fresh ingredients and a charming atmosphere.
A short drive from the zoo to La Jolla.
USD30, 1.5 hours
4:30PM
Visit La Jolla Cove
Enjoy the stunning views of the ocean and watch the sea lions at La Jolla Cove.
The cove is nearby, just a 15-minute drive from The Cottage.
Free, 2 hours
6:30PM
Dinner at George's at the Cove
Finish the day with a spectacular dinner at George's featuring coastal cuisine and sunset views.
Located right at La Jolla Cove.
USD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego
Day 6: San Diego Fun
San Diego, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Anyway CA
Wake up to relaxed vibes and delicious breakfast bowls at Anyway CA, a local favorite.
Conveniently located in Little Italy.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Explore Coronado Island
Take a ferry or drive over to Coronado Island for beautiful beaches and charming shops.
Short ferry ride from downtown San Diego.
USD10, 3 hours
1:00PM
Lunch at Peohe’s
Savor fresh seafood and sushi with picturesque bay views at Peohe’s.
Located on Coronado Island, easy access.
USD40, 1.5 hours
2:30PM
La Jolla Kayaking
Enjoy a fun afternoon kayaking along La Jolla’s marine protected areas, exploring sea caves.
Drive back to La Jolla, kayak rentals available by the beach.
USD60, 2.5 hours
5:00PM
Relax at Pacific Beach
Spend some chill time at Pacific Beach basking in the sun and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Short drive from La Jolla takes about 20 minutes.
Free, 2 hours
7:00PM
Dinner at The Fish Market
Feast on fresh catch at The Fish Market, a popular eatery with a relaxed vibe along the harbor.
A short drive back to the harbor area.
USD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego
Day 7: Fly to Chicago
Chicago, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Great Maple
Enjoy a gourmet breakfast with trendy dishes like maple bacon doughnuts at Great Maple in Hillcrest.
Drive to Hillcrest; about 15 minutes from downtown SD.
USD25, 1 hour
9:30AM
Check-out and pack
Prepare for your flight after exploring your surroundings one last time.
Return to your hotel to check out.
Free, 1 hour
11:00AM
Flight from San Diego to Chicago
Catch your flight to Chicago from San Diego International Airport.
Approximately a 3-hour flight.
USD150, 3 hours
3:00PM
Check-in at Hotel in Chicago
Arrive in Chicago, settle into your hotel, and rest up for an exciting evening.
Take a taxi or rideshare from Chicago O'Hare to downtown.
USD50, 1 hour
5:00PM
Stroll along the Lakefront Trail
Get acquainted with the city by walking along the scenic Lakefront Trail.
Head towards the lake from your hotel, just a few blocks away.
Free, 1.5 hours
6:30PM
Dinner at The Purple Pig
Indulge in Mediterranean-inspired dishes at The Purple Pig, known for its delicious charcuterie.
Located on Michigan Avenue, a short ride from Lakefront.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chicago
Day 8: Chicago Landmarks
Chicago, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe
Start your day with signature pancakes and a cozy atmosphere at Wildberry Pancakes.
Conveniently located near Millennium Park.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Millennium Park
Snap photos at the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean) in Millennium Park.
A short walk from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour
11:00AM
Explore the Art Institute of Chicago
Dive into art history with a vast collection at the Art Institute of Chicago.
Within walking distance from Millennium Park.
USD25, 2 hours
2:00PM
Lunch at Lou Malnati's
Experience a true Chicago-style deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati's.
A short cab ride away from the Art Institute.
USD30, 1.5 hours
3:30PM
Visit Willis Tower Skydeck
Take in stunning views of Chicago from the Skydeck at Willis Tower.
A quick taxi ride from Lou Malnati's.
USD30, 1 hour
5:00PM
Dinner at Girl & the Goat
Dine at the acclaimed Girl & the Goat offering innovative dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Short drive or Uber from Willis Tower.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chicago
Day 9: Culture and Nightlife
Chicago, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Beatrix
Enjoy a health-conscious breakfast at Beatrix, known for its vibrant atmosphere.
Located near the River North area.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Visit Lincoln Park
Take a leisurely stroll through Lincoln Park and its beautiful gardens.
Accessible by public transport or taxi.
Free, 2 hours
12:00PM
Lunch at The Chicago Diner
Delight in delicious vegetarian comfort food at The Chicago Diner, famous for its shakes.
Head over by taxi or public transit.
USD20, 1 hour
1:30PM
Visit the Museum of Science and Industry
Explore fascinating exhibits and interactive displays at the Museum of Science and Industry.
A short taxi ride from The Chicago Diner.
USD20, 2 hours
4:00PM
Return to Hotel and Rest
Relax and recharge back at your hotel before evening plans.
Head back to your downtown hotel.
Free, 1 hour
6:30PM
Dinner at RPM Italian
Savor upscale Italian dining at RPM Italian, offering a contemporary twist on classic dishes.
Located in the River North area, short drive away.
USD70, 2 hours
9:00PM
Chicago Nightlife
Experience Chicago's nightlife by catching a live comedy show at The Second City.
Just a short drive or Uber from dinner.
USD40, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chicago
Day 10: Departure Day
Chicago, USA
8:00AM
Breakfast at Eggy’s Diner
Last breakfast in the Windy City at Eggy’s Diner, offering classic American breakfast favorites.
Located downtown, a short walk from most hotels.
USD20, 1 hour
9:30AM
Pack and Check-out
Gather your belongings and get ready for your journey home, reflecting on your incredible adventure.
Time to head back to your hotel and check out.
Free, 1 hour
11:00AM
Transfer to Airport
Take a taxi or rideshare to O'Hare or Midway Airport for your departure.
Plan for travel time based on your flight schedule.
USD40, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Chicago
0
Travel Requirements
Local Sayings
Connectivity Info
Nearby Shopping
Accepted Currency + Payment Types
Safety
Cultural Norms + Etiquette
Health + Medical Facilities
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email
More About Washington DC , Los Angeles, California ,san diego, Chicago
Trip Packing List: United States multi-city tour (30 Aug 2026 — early Nov 2026)
Packing List
Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
November 3, 2024
AI-assisted, human-reviewed
Plan Your Washington DC , Los Angeles, California ,san diego, Chicago Trip
Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go
Unlock Unlimited Trips
$2.50
/mo
Billed $30/year
Unlimited trip generations
Personalized packing lists
Extra details & local tips
Private & ad-free
Sign In to Upgrade
See all plans
Upgrade to Plus
$2.50
/mo
Billed $30/year
Unlimited trip generations
Personalized packing lists
Extra details & local tips
Private & ad-free
Sign In to Upgrade
See all plans
Sign in to save this itinerary.
Sign Up
or
Sign In
Create a Free Account
Sign up for free to keep generating itineraries!
Sign Up Free
I already have an account
Trip Locations
Share Itinerary
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email