10-Day Eco-Friendly Adventure: Los Angeles and Joshua Tree

Day 1: Drive to Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree, CA on December 21, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sqirl

Kick off your adventure with a delicious breakfast featuring locally sourced ingredients at this trendy café in Silver Lake.
Drive to Sqirl in Silver Lake.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Joshua Tree

Leave LA behind and head toward the unique landscapes of Joshua Tree National Park.
Start your 2-hour drive to Joshua Tree.
Free (gas varies), 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Crossroads Cafe

Savor a hearty meal at this local favorite cafe that offers delicious sandwiches and breakfast all day.
Arrive at Crossroads Cafe in Joshua Tree.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Joshua Tree National Park

Dive right into the stunning desert landscapes and unique rock formations on a quick hike.
Enter Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center.
USD 30 (vehicle entry fee), 4 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Copine

Delight in a mix of American and Mexican dishes at this must-try spot near Joshua Tree.
Drive to La Copine.
USD 35, 1.5 hours

8:00PM

Star Gazing in Joshua Tree

Experience the stunning night sky over Joshua Tree, famous for its breathtaking celestial views.
Head to a dark area within Joshua Tree National Park.
Free, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: More of Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree, CA on December 22, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Natural Sisters Cafe

Indulge in a refreshing breakfast packed with healthy options at this inviting café.
Drive to Natural Sisters Cafe.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike Hidden Valley

Embark on a picturesque trail through the iconic Hidden Valley, known for its unique rock formations.
Drive to Hidden Valley.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pie for the People

Enjoy a slice of New York-style pizza in this funky local eatery in Joshua Tree.
Drive to Pie for the People.
USD 20, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Keys View

Marvel at breathtaking panoramic views of the Coachella Valley at this scenic overlook.
Drive to Keys View.
Free, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Joshua Tree Art Gallery

Discover stunning local artworks at this community art gallery showcasing local artists.
Drive to the gallery.
Free, 1 hour

4:30PM

Dinner at Crossroads Cafe

Relax and enjoy another hearty meal at this casual eatery after your day exploring nature.
Drive back to Crossroads Cafe.
USD 25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Explore Joshua Tree

Joshua Tree, CA on December 23, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Crossroads Cafe

Enjoy a home-cooked breakfast at this cafe before heading out for another day of adventure.
Drive to Crossroads Cafe.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike Barker Dam

Take a moderately easy hike to see the historic dam and possibly some wildlife along the trail.
Drive to Barker Dam Trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Joshua Tree Coffee Company

Try local coffee brews and light bites at this community-driven coffee shop.
Drive to Joshua Tree Coffee Company.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Joshua Tree Music Festival Site

Depending on the season, explore the venue for local music or festivities.
Drive to the festival site.
Free or varies by event, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Relax at Cholla Cactus Garden

Stroll among the fascinating cholla cacti and appreciate the beauty of the desert.
Drive to Cholla Cactus Garden.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at La Copine

Savor another delightful meal with a unique variety of dishes at this beloved eatery.
Drive back to La Copine.
USD 35, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Journey to Sedona

Sedona, AZ on December 24, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at Crossroads Cafe

Grab a meal one last time at Crossroads Cafe before leaving Joshua Tree.
Drive to the cafe.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Sedona

Leave Joshua Tree and start your drive to the scenic landscapes of Sedona.
Drive to Sedona (about 4 hours).
Free (gas varies), 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Sedona Fudge Company

Indulge in delicious sandwiches and decadent desserts at this cozy spot in Sedona.
Drive to The Sedona Fudge Company.
USD 15, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Red Rock State Park

Experience the breathtaking red rock formations on an easy afternoon hike along the trails.
Drive to Red Rock State Park.
USD 7 (entry fee), 2 hours

5:00PM

Explore Tlaquepaque Arts & Crafts Village

Stroll through this charming outdoor shopping area filled with art galleries and boutiques.
Drive to Tlaquepaque.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cowboy Club

Enjoy classic American fare in a rustic setting with a touch of Sedona charm.
Drive to The Cowboy Club.
USD 30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Adventures in Sedona

Sedona, AZ on December 25, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Pot

Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast at this iconic Sedona eatery known for its extensive menu.
Drive to The Coffee Pot.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hike Cathedral Rock

Embark on a moderately challenging hike with stunning views of Sedona's landscapes.
Drive to Cathedral Rock Trailhead.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Indian Gardens Cafe & Market

Choose from healthy, locally sourced options in this lovely café surrounded by nature.
Drive to Indian Gardens.
USD 20, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross

Discover this architectural marvel built into the red rocks with sweeping views of Sedona.
Drive to the chapel.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Relax in Sedona

Enjoy the tranquility of Sedona and unwind at your accommodation or a local park.
Exploration on foot.
Free, 1 hour

6:30PM

Dinner at The Olde Sedona Bar & Grill

Taste classic American dishes made with fresh ingredients at this local favorite.
Drive to The Olde Sedona Bar & Grill.
USD 30, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Nature and Culture

Sedona, AZ on December 26, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Secret Garden Café

Enjoy a peaceful breakfast surrounded by beautiful gardens and local cuisine.
Drive to The Secret Garden Café.
USD 20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Bell Rock

Experience the stunning views and unique rock formations as you hike around Bell Rock.
Drive to Bell Rock Trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Sedona Memories Bakery & Café

Savor freshly baked goods and sandwiches made with local ingredients.
Drive to the bakery and cafe.
USD 15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore the Sedona Heritage Museum

Learn about Sedona's rich history and culture at this engaging local museum.
Drive to the museum.
USD 7, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at Slide Rock State Park

Unwind in nature at this beautiful park known for its waterslides and stunning scenery.
Drive to Slide Rock State Park.
USD 10 (entry fee), 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Hudson

Savor upscale American cuisine with breathtaking views of Sedona.
Drive to The Hudson.
USD 50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Relaxation and Discovery

Sedona, AZ on December 27, 2024

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Pot

Return for another hearty breakfast with a vast menu of choices at this iconic restaurant.
Drive to The Coffee Pot.
USD 15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Oak Creek Canyon

Explore the stunning scenery while hiking the trails or relaxing by the creek.
Drive to Oak Creek Canyon.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Cowboy Club

Dine on regional favorites at this ranch-style restaurant in the heart of Sedona.
Drive back to The Cowboy Club.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore the Sedona Arts Center

Explore and appreciate local artists' works and various exhibitions at this community hub.
Drive to Sedona Arts Center.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Cucina Rustica

End the day with delicious Italian cuisine in a romantic setting.
Drive to Cucina Rustica.
USD 40, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Final Day in Sedona

Sedona, AZ on December 28, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Secret Garden Café

Savor your last Sedona breakfast among beautiful gardens.
Drive to The Secret Garden Café.
USD 20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Chapel of the Holy Cross

Explore this remarkable chapel with panoramic views of the red rocks.
Drive to the chapel.
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Olde Sedona Bar & Grill

Enjoy classic American dishes before preparing to head back to LA.
Drive to The Olde Sedona Bar & Grill.
USD 30, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Depart for Los Angeles

Enjoy lovely desert views as you drive back to LA, reflecting on your adventure.
Drive back to LA (about 7 hours).
Free (gas varies), 7 hours

9:00PM

Check into Hotel

Rest up at your chosen accommodation in Los Angeles after a long drive.
Drive to your hotel.
Varies by reservation, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Chill Day in LA

Los Angeles, CA on December 29, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Original Pantry Cafe

Enjoy a classic American breakfast at this historic diner that never closes.
Drive to Downtown LA.
USD 15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Griffith Observatory

Enjoy stunning views of the city and learn about the universe at this iconic observatory.
Drive to Griffith Park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Trails Cafe

Enjoy homemade sandwiches and fresh pastries amid the trees in Griffith Park.
Located adjacent to Griffith Park.
USD 12, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore LACMA

Dive into Los Angeles' vibrant cultural scene at this famous art museum with numerous exhibits.
Drive to Los Angeles County Museum of Art.
USD 25, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Bestia

Indulge in exceptional Italian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients at this trendy restaurant.
Drive to the Arts District.
USD 50, 2 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Final Exploration

Los Angeles, CA on December 30, 2024

9:00AM

Breakfast at Stumptown Coffee Roasters

Enjoy expertly crafted coffee and a light breakfast to start your final day.
Drive to Stumptown in the Arts District.
USD 10, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit The Broad Museum

Admire contemporary art pieces in this iconic museum known for its impressive collection.
Walk to The Broad.
Free, Advance Reservation Recommended, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Experience a variety of cuisines at this bustling food hall filled with local vendors.
Walk to Grand Central Market.
USD 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore the Arts District

Stroll through the vibrant murals and street art around this culturally rich neighborhood.
Exploration on foot.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Goodbye Walk at Echo Park

Take a leisurely stroll around Echo Park Lake and enjoy the tranquil surroundings one last time.
Drive to Echo Park.
Free, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability