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10-Day Family Friendly Road Trip Adventure Across the USA

Viewed by 222 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your adventure with a hearty breakfast of French toast and a side of their famous crab omelet, which offers a delightful twist to your morning.
Located near Coit Tower.
USD 15, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit the Golden Gate Park

Explore the beautiful landscapes, playgrounds, and the California Academy of Sciences—perfect for family fun and learning.
Driving 15 minutes from the breakfast location.
USD 0, 3 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Pier 39

Enjoy fresh seafood at Fog Harbor Fish House while watching the sea lions basking in the sun.
15-minute drive to Pier 39.
USD 25, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Explore Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the historic prison for an interesting family audio tour that kids will enjoy.
Ferry departs from Pier 33, a short walk from lunch.
USD 39 for adults, USD 24 for children, 3 Hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Boudin Bakery

End the day with a flavorful sourdough bread bowl filled with clam chowder the whole family will love.
Short walk back to Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD 20, 1.5 Hours
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Day 2: Monterey Bay Adventures

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Enjoy a classic breakfast of pancakes and eggs to fuel the day ahead of exploration.
Drive 2 hours to Monterey.
USD 15, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Monterey Bay Aquarium

Spend a few hours marveling at the colorful marine life—definitely a hit for the kids!
Just a 5-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 49.95 for adults, USD 29.95 for children, 3 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Choose from various eateries and indulge in fresh fish tacos at Cannery Row Restaurant.
5-minute drive from the aquarium.
USD 20, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Explore 17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive spot stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and famous golf courses; make sure to stop at the Lone Cypress.
Around 20 minutes drive from lunch.
USD 10 per vehicle, 3 Hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fish Hopper

Enjoy a family dinner overlooking the bay with seafood and child-friendly options.
Return to Cannery Row, about 10 minutes away.
USD 30, 1.5 Hours
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Day 3: Santa Barbara Sunshine

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant

Dive into delicious omelets and fresh pastries as you get ready for a fun trip.
Drive 1.5 hours to Santa Barbara.
USD 20, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Santa Barbara Zoo

Spend the morning wandering through this family-friendly zoo, which is perfect for younger kids.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 17 for adults, USD 12 for children, 3 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Shoreline Beach Cafe

Enjoy a beachfront lunch with burgers and veggie wraps, so the family can unwind by the sea.
5-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 20, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Visit Stearns Wharf

Walk along the iconic pier, enjoy some ice cream, and maybe catch a glimpse of some local wildlife.
10-minute drive from lunch.
USD 0, 2 Hours

4:30PM

Dinner at The Harbor Restaurant

Enjoy fresh fish dishes with panoramic views of the harbor for a beautiful dinner experience.
Short drive back to the harbor.
USD 30, 1.5 Hours
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Day 4: Los Angeles Extravaganza

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Dig into giant pancakes and other breakfast favorites that will leave the family satisfied.
Drive 2 hours to LA.
USD 20, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

Get ready for an action-packed day exploring the rides and attractions of this famous theme park.
20-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 139 for adults, USD 129 for children, 6 Hours

4:30PM

Dinner at CityWalk (Multiple Options)

After an exciting day, grab a casual dinner at one of the many eateries like Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Located adjacent to Universal Studios.
USD 25, 1.5 Hours
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Day 5: Fun in San Diego

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café 21

Start with a farm-fresh breakfast featuring eggs benedict and delightful smoothies.
Drive 2 hours to San Diego.
USD 20, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit the San Diego Zoo

Explore one of the best zoos in the world, featuring a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits great for kids.
30-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 65 for adults, USD 55 for children, 5 Hours

2:30PM

Lunch at The Prado

Enjoy delicious California cuisine within Balboa Park, perfect for recharging after the zoo.
10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 25, 1.5 Hours

4:00PM

Explore Balboa Park

Roam around this cultural park with gardens, play areas, and museums that delight kids of all ages.
Staying in Balboa Park.
USD 0, 2 Hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Point Loma Seafoods

Finish the day with casual dining, enjoying fresh seafood with stunning views of the harbor.
20-minute drive from Balboa Park.
USD 30, 1.5 Hours
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Day 6: Palm Springs Relaxation

Palm Springs, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cheeky's

Relish in creative breakfast options like bacon flights and fresh juices in this trendy spot.
Drive 2 hours to Palm Springs.
USD 20, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit the Living Desert Zoo

Engage with the wild life and learn about conservation in this family-friendly zoo and botanical gardens.
20-minute drive from breakfast.
USD 22 for adults, USD 11 for children, 3 Hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Sam's Burger Joint

Enjoy delicious burgers and family-friendly meals before a relaxing afternoon.
20-minute drive from the zoo.
USD 15, 1.5 Hours

2:00PM

Relax by the pool

Spend a leisurely afternoon at your hotel’s pool, perfect for a family break.
Hotel based.
USD 0, 3 Hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Citrus Heights Restaurant

Enjoy a family dinner with a mix of Asian and American dishes that please everyone.
Drive 10 minutes from the hotel.
USD 30, 1.5 Hours
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Day 7: Grand Canyon Wonders

Grand Canyon, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Start early with breakfast at your hotel to make the most of your day at the Grand Canyon.
Drive 5 hours to the Grand Canyon.
USD 0, 1 Hour

12:00PM

Visit Grand Canyon National Park

Explore breathtaking views, take family-friendly hikes, and capture the perfect family photo.
Entry through the South Rim.
USD 35 per vehicle, 5 Hours

5:00PM

Dinner at El Tovar Dining Room

Enjoy a meal with stunning canyon views; the perfect way to reflect on the day’s adventures.
Located near the park’s South Rim.
USD 40, 1.5 Hours
Find Hotels in Grand Canyon

Day 8: Las Vegas Lights

Las Vegas, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blueberry Hill

Indulge in a local favorite where you can enjoy a variety of breakfast items.
Drive 4.5 hours to Las Vegas.
USD 15, 1 Hour

9:30AM

Visit The STRAT Tower

Ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of Las Vegas; kids will love the thrill of being so high up.
Drive 10 minutes from breakfast.
USD 20 for adults, USD 10 for children, 1.5 Hours

11:30AM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Relax with gourmet burgers and shakes that appeal to all ages, right on the Strip.
5-minute drive from the STRAT.
USD 15, 1 Hour

1:00PM

Explore the Fremont Street Experience

Take a stroll under the dazzling lights and enjoy live performances along with street entertainment.
15-minute drive from lunch.
USD 0, 2 Hours

3:00PM

Dinner at Rainforest Cafe

End the day with a fun-filled meal with animatronic animals—perfect for the kids!
5-minute drive from Fremont Street.
USD 30, 1.5 Hours
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Day 9: Yosemite National Park

Yosemite, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Basecamp Eatery

Fuel up with a hearty breakfast before embarking on the day’s hikes and explorations.
Drive 7 hours to Yosemite.
USD 20, 1 Hour

12:00PM

Explore Yosemite National Park

Discover the majestic waterfalls, giant sequoias, and panoramic viewpoints; perfect for family adventures.
Entry through the Arch Rock Entrance.
USD 35 per vehicle, 5 Hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Relax with a family meal while overlooking the stunning Yosemite Falls.
Located within the park.
USD 40, 1.5 Hours
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Day 10: Return to San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Have a final breakfast at the hotel before heading back home.
Drive 4 hours back to San Francisco.
USD 0, 1 Hour

12:00PM

Visit the Exploratorium

Conclude your trip with interactive science exhibits that will both entertain and educate the whole family.
15-minute drive from your hotel.
USD 29 for adults, USD 19 for children, 3 Hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Enjoy a late lunch with a variety of menu options that will satisfy everyone's taste buds.
10-minute drive from the Exploratorium.
USD 25, 1.5 Hours

5:00PM

Departure

Reflect on your 10-day family road trip, filled with memories and laughter.
Head to the airport or home.
USD 0, 0 Hours
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