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Epic Family Road Trip: Chicago to Kennedy Space Center and Busch Gardens

Viewed by 73 travelers

Day 1: Journey to Space

Chicago, IL

6:00 AM

Departure from Chicago

Start your adventure early in the morning, excitement bubbling as the family embarks on this epic journey towards the stars.
Head southeast on I-90 towards Indianapolis.
CURRENCY0, Duration: All Day Drive

12:00 PM

Lunch at Cracker Barrel

Stop for a hearty meal at Cracker Barrel, where the family can enjoy classic country breakfasts for lunch, and recharge for the long drive ahead.
Located conveniently off I-65, it’s a great place to stretch and eat.
CURRENCY70, Duration: 1 Hour

1:00 PM

Continue Drive

Hit the road again, enjoying the playful road trip games while leaving the Midwest behind and heading towards sunny Florida.
Continue on I-65 south until merging onto I-75.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 5 Hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Olive Garden

Treat the family to an Italian feast at Olive Garden, where everyone can savor unlimited breadsticks and delicious pasta dishes before checking into the hotel.
Located near your hotel choice on I-4, making it easy after a long day of driving.
CURRENCY80, Duration: 1.5 Hours

7:30 PM

Check into Hotel

Arrive at your hotel in the Cocoa Beach area, where you can relax and prepare for the thrilling rocket launch tomorrow.
Short drive from Olive Garden to your hotel.
CURRENCY150, Duration: 30 Minutes
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Day 2: Rocket Launch Day

Kennedy Space Center, FL

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up at your hotel’s breakfast for an extra energy boost before the thrilling experience ahead.
Enjoy a variety of breakfast options from the hotel buffet.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 1 Hour

8:00 AM

Visit Kennedy Space Center

Arrive early at the Kennedy Space Center, where kids and adults alike can explore the exhibits, learn about space, and prepare for the Falcon 9 launch.
Drive to KSC, just 30 mins from Cocoa Beach.
CURRENCY140, Duration: 4 Hours

12:00 PM

Lunch at KSC

Grab lunch at the Orbit Cafe, enjoying space-themed meals while eagerly discussing the upcoming launch.
Located within the Kennedy Space Center.
CURRENCY50, Duration: 1 Hour

1:00 PM

Space Center Exploration

Continue to explore more exhibits at the Space Center, including the Shuttle Atlantis, and possibly meet an astronaut.
Follow signs within the center to reach different exhibits.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 3 Hours

4:00 PM

Solar System Launch Viewing

Take your place at the designated viewing area as you wait in excitement for the Falcon 9 to launch, counting down the minutes.
Follow directions to the launch viewing area outside.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 3 Hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Hooked - KSC

After the epic launch, enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at Hooked, reflecting on the day’s thrilling events.
Located just before exiting the KSC grounds.
CURRENCY100, Duration: 1.5 Hours
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Day 3: Universal Studios Adventure

Orlando, FL

7:00 AM

Breakfast at IHOP

Start your day with a smile at IHOP indulging in pancakes and fresh fruit to kick off the theme park day.
Short drive from the hotel to IHOP.
CURRENCY50, Duration: 1 Hour

9:00 AM

Visit Universal Studios

Arrive early at Universal Studios, where the entire family can embark on thrilling rides and explore themed attractions all day.
Follow signs to the Universal entrance.
CURRENCY150, Duration: 8 Hours

5:00 PM

Dinner at Mythos Restaurant

Enjoy dinner at Mythos, where the family can feast on culinary creations surrounded by a themed atmosphere.
Located in the park for added convenience.
CURRENCY120, Duration: 1.5 Hours

6:30 PM

Evening Park Fun

Take advantage of the evening hours for more rides and enjoy the enchanting park lit up at night.
Navigate through the park explored earlier in the day.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 2 Hours
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Day 4: Thrills at Busch Gardens

Tampa, FL

7:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy a filling breakfast in preparation for the epic adventure at Busch Gardens.
Benefit from convenient dining at your hotel.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 1 Hour

8:00 AM

Drive to Busch Gardens

Take a scenic drive to Busch Gardens, filled with anticipation for the rides and shows that await.
Follow I-4 west towards Tampa.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 1.5 Hours

9:30 AM

Park Entry

Arrive at Busch Gardens, ready to dive into a world of adventure and wildlife, promising a full day of fun.
Follow signs for park entry.
CURRENCY120, Duration: All Day

12:30 PM

Lunch at Serengeti Overlook

While at the park, savor a tasty meal with a view of the beautiful Serengeti animals.
Reserve a table in advance for the best experience.
CURRENCY60, Duration: 1.5 Hours

3:00 PM

Ride the Coasters

Experience the thrilling coasters and attractions before the park closes, making the most of your time at Busch Gardens.
Check the park map for ride locations.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 3 Hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Hops & Grill

Wrap up the day with a hearty dinner at Hops & Grill, where the family can enjoy Southern dishes in a lively atmosphere.
Located just outside the park for convenience after a busy day.
CURRENCY80, Duration: 1.5 Hours
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Day 5: Return to Chicago

Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL

7:00 AM

Breakfast at the Hotel

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel one last time before you hit the road back to Chicago.
Grab a quick bite before departing.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 1 Hour

8:00 AM

Begin the Journey Home

Start your journey back home, reminiscing about the incredible experiences shared as a family.
Follow I-75 north for a seamless return.
CURRENCY0, Duration: All Day Drive

12:00 PM

Lunch at Subway

Stop at a convenient Subway to fuel up on fresh sandwiches, giving everyone a chance to recharge for the final stretch.
Easily accessible off I-75.
CURRENCY40, Duration: 1 Hour

7:00 PM

Dinner on the Road

Enjoy a quick dinner at a roadside restaurant during the drive, ensuring the family is well-fed for the home stretch.
Various diners along I-65 to choose from.
CURRENCY70, Duration: 1 Hour

10:00 PM

Welcome Home!

Arrive back home in Chicago, bringing with you unforgettable memories from an incredible adventure.
End your journey, excited to plan the next escapade.
CURRENCY0, Duration: 30 Minutes
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