Ultimate 7-Day Hollywood Road Trip Itinerary from Shenandoah, Iowa

Day 1: Journey to the Mountains

Shenandoah, IA to Denver, CO

7:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the local coffee shop known for its warm atmosphere and delicious omelets.
Located at 302 N. 16th St. before hitting the road.
USD15, 1 hour

8:00AM

Start Drive to Denver

Begin your adventure with a scenic drive through eastern Colorado, admiring the landscapes along the way.
Take US-34 W toward Denver.
Free, 6 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Sam's No. 3

Savor a classic diner lunch with a creative twist in one of Denver's favorite eateries.
Located at 1500 Curtis St., a short drive from downtown.
USD20, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Denver Art Museum

Discover an impressive collection of Native American art and modern pieces at this world-renowned museum.
Drive to 100 W 14th Ave Parkway.
USD13, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Linger

Indulge in incredible eclectic cuisine while enjoying views of the city skyline from this trendy restaurant.
A short drive to 2030 W 30th Ave.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 2: City Highlights

Denver, CO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, an A.M. Eatery

Treat yourself to creative breakfast dishes at this lively spot famous for its pancakes.
Located close to downtown at 2262 Larimer St.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Union Station

Explore the beautifully restored Union Station, home to shops, restaurants, and a vibrant atmosphere.
A short drive or walk from the breakfast spot.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Denver Botanic Gardens

Stroll through stunning gardens showcasing a diverse collection of plants and landscapes.
Drive to 1007 York St.
USD15, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cherry Cricket

Enjoy classic American fare including juicy burgers in a lively and laid-back atmosphere.
Located at 2641 E 2nd Ave, a short drive from the gardens.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre

Experience the majestic beauty of this iconic venue and explore the trails in the surrounding park.
Drive 30 minutes to 18300 W Alameda Pkwy.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Avanti Food & Beverage

Dine at a trendy food hall offering a rotating selection of local culinary options.
Back towards downtown at 3200 Chestnut Pl.
USD40, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Bright Lights, Big Cities

Las Vegas, NV

7:30AM

Breakfast at Blueberry Hill

Start with a cozy breakfast of pancakes and waffles at this popular local diner.
Located just off I-70 on your way to Vegas.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Las Vegas

Enjoy the scenic drive through the desert landscape as you approach the vibrant city of Las Vegas.
Follow I-15 S to Las Vegas.
Free, 10 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at E by José Andrés

Savor a creative and unique culinary experience at this exclusive restaurant featuring small plate tasting menus.
At The Cosmopolitan, located at 3708 Las Vegas Blvd S.
USD150, 2 hours

9:00PM

Explore The Strip

Take in the dazzling neon lights, street performers, and bustling atmosphere of Las Vegas Boulevard.
Start at the southern end of The Strip.
Free, 2 hours
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Day 4: City of Stars

Hollywood, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before your road trip with a variety of egg dishes and pancakes.
Drive from your hotel in Las Vegas to the restaurant.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Hollywood

Embark on a scenic journey through the Mojave Desert on your way to Hollywood.
Follow I-15 S and US-101 N to Hollywood.
Free, 4 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at The Hollywood Brown Derby

Enjoy lunch at this iconic restaurant known for its fantastic ambiance and classic fare.
Located at 1625 N Vine St.
USD35, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the star-studded sidewalk, finding your favorite celebrities' stars.
A short walk from The Brown Derby.
Free, 1 hour

5:00PM

Hollywood Sign Hike

Hike to Griffith Park for stunning views of the Hollywood Sign and city below.
Drive to the Griffith Park entrance.
Free, 2 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill

Indulge in classic American fare at one of Hollywood’s oldest restaurants celebrated by many stars.
Located at 6667 Hollywood Blvd.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Magical Day at Disney

Anaheim, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake House

Start your day with delicious pancakes and classic breakfast favorites just outside Hollywood.
Located a short drive from your hotel.
USD18, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Disneyland

Travel 45 minutes to the land of magic and fun that is Disneyland.
Head via I-5 S to Disneyland Resort.
Free, 45 minutes

10:30AM

Disneyland Park

Enjoy a full day of rides, shows, and experiences in this iconic theme park.
Enter Disneyland Park upon arrival.
USD164 (ticket price), 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Plaza Inn

Indulge in a classic Southern California meal featuring their famous fried chicken.
Located in Disneyland Park.
USD20, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Watch Disneyland Fireworks

Experience the magical fireworks show over Sleeping Beauty's Castle to conclude your Disney adventure.
Find a good viewing spot within the park.
Free with park admission, 1 hour
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Day 6: Beach Bliss

Malibu, CA

7:30AM

Breakfast at Malibu Farm Cafe

Enjoy a fresh and healthy breakfast at Malibu Farm, located on the iconic Malibu Pier.
Drive from Anaheim to Malibu (about 45 minutes).
USD30, 1 hour

9:00AM

Relax at Zuma Beach

Spend a relaxing morning soaking in the sun and enjoying the waves at one of Malibu's most beautiful beaches.
Head to Zuma Beach after breakfast.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Geoffrey's Malibu

Dine with breathtaking ocean views and indulge in delicious seafood at this upscale restaurant.
A quick drive from Zuma Beach.
USD50, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Walk along Malibu Pier

Stroll along the historic Malibu Pier, stopping to enjoy shops and beautiful ocean views.
Head to the Pier area after lunch.
Free, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Point Dume State Beach

Discover the scenic trails and lookout points for stunning ocean vistas at this picturesque park.
A short drive along the coast from the pier.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Nobu Malibu

Wrap up your day with a memorable dining experience at the world-renowned Nobu, featuring exquisite Japanese cuisine.
Located just off PCH on 22706 Pacific Coast Hwy.
USD100, 2 hours
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Day 7: Final Scenic Views

Griffith Park, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Little Beast

Enjoy a cozy breakfast made with locally sourced ingredients in a charming ambiance.
Located near Griffith Park entrance.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Griffith Observatory

Visit the iconic Griffith Observatory for stunning views of LA and learn about the universe.
Drive to Griffith Park's main entrance.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Trails Cafe

Enjoy a wholesome lunch amid the park's beautiful surroundings.
Located within Griffith Park.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Hiking at Griffith Park

Take the opportunity to hike the scenic trails of Griffith Park, including the popular Mt. Hollywood Trail.
Access it from the Griffith Observatory.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Horseback Riding Experience

Enjoy a unique horseback riding experience through Griffith Park's beautiful scenery.
Book a session through one of the local stables.
USD40, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Smoke House

Conclude your road trip with a delicious dinner at this famous restaurant known for steaks and garlic bread.
Just outside Griffith Park.
USD35, 1.5 hours
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