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Ultimate Family-Friendly USA Road Trip Itinerary

Viewed by 204 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with a delicious breakfast featuring their famous French toast and crab omelette.
Located in North Beach, easily accessible by car.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Golden Gate Park

Spend the morning exploring the beautiful landscapes, playgrounds, and even visit the California Academy of Sciences.
Head west from the restaurant through Lombard Street.
USD40 for family tickets, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Park Chow

Enjoy tasty wood-fired pizzas and burgers in a family-friendly atmosphere.
Located near the park, just a short drive.
USD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Take a Ferry to Alcatraz Island

Learn about the history of the famous prison during a guided tour, which is quite captivating for families.
Return to the Ferry Building and catch the ferry.
USD80 for family tickets, 2.5 hours including round-trip travel

5:00PM

Dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy crab chowder in a sourdough bowl while watching the sea lions at Pier 39.
Short drive to Pier 39.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Monterey Adventure

Monterey, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Place

Enjoy hearty brunch options like pancakes and omelets to fuel up for the day.
Drive to Monterey via CA-1.
USD30, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Delve into the fascinating underwater world at this renowned aquarium, which is a hit with kids.
Walk to the aquarium from breakfast.
USD70 for family tickets, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row

Choose from various family-friendly eateries, such as Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.
Easily walk from the aquarium.
USD55, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Point Lobos State Natural Reserve

Hike along the scenic trails and take in stunning ocean views, perfect for families who love nature.
Short drive to the reserve.
USD20 for parking, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Gianni's Pizza

Wind down with delicious Italian pizza that both parents and kids will love.
Drive back into Monterey.
USD50, 1 hour
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Day 3: Hollywood Highlights

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Indulge in enormous portioned pancakes that are sure to delight both kids and adults.
Drive down to Los Angeles via US-101 S.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Spend some time spotting your favourite stars on the famous sidewalks.
Short drive or walk from the cafe.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Tour the Hollywood sign

Take a short hike up to the sign for a great family photo opportunity.
Drive to the Griffith Park trailhead.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Try California's iconic burger joint, with affordable prices and a simple, tasty menu.
Quick drive from Griffith Park.
USD35, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Universal Studios Hollywood

An unforgettable experience filled with thrilling rides and shows that the whole family can enjoy.
Short drive to the studios.
USD400 for family tickets, 5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Olive Garden

Finish off the day with hearty Italian cuisine in a casual atmosphere.
Short drive from Universal Studios.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Sunny San Diego

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Start your day with delicious French toast and a variety of classic breakfast options.
Drive to San Diego via I-5 S.
USD35, 1.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit San Diego Zoo

Experience one of the world's best zoos, a fantastic place to see diverse animals and exhibits.
Head to the zoo from breakfast.
USD150 for family tickets, 4 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at The Prado

Dine at this lovely restaurant located in Balboa Park, serving delicious international cuisine.
Short walk from the zoo.
USD70, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Balboa Park

Discover beautiful gardens, museums, and family-friendly activities within this cultural park.
Wander around Balboa Park after lunch.
USD30 for museum admissions, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Point Loma Seafoods

Enjoy fresh seafood with a view of the marina, offering casual dining perfect for families.
Short drive to Point Loma.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Desert Dreams

Phoenix, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Matt's Big Breakfast

Savour a well-rounded breakfast featuring local ingredients and delicious pancakes.
Drive to Phoenix via I-10 E.
USD30, 2 hours

9:30AM

Visit the Desert Botanical Garden

Explore the stunning exhibits of desert plants and learn about the regional ecology.
Short drive from the restaurant.
USD60 for family tickets, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Reinvented Pizzeria

Relax with a variety of gourmet pizzas perfect for both kids and adults.
Drive to the pizzeria.
USD50, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit Phoenix Children's Museum

Let your kids explore hands-on exhibits that entertain and educate.
Just a short drive from the pizza place.
USD40 for family tickets, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at Rustler's Rooste

Enjoy a unique dining experience overlooking the city, complete with a cowboy-themed menu.
Short drive up the hill.
USD80, 2 hours
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Day 6: Grand Canyon Wonders

Grand Canyon, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

Start your day with diner classics that will fill you up for your Grand Canyon adventure.
Drive to Grand Canyon via I-17 N and AZ-64 N.
USD40, 3 hours

11:00AM

Explore the Grand Canyon National Park

Marvel at the breathtaking views and stunning geological formations at one of the natural wonders of the world.
Enter through the South Rim entrance.
USD35 for vehicle entry, 4 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Canyon Village Market

Grab some quick eats or picnic items to enjoy in the park's scenic surroundings.
Dine at the picnic area within the park.
USD30, 1 hour

4:00PM

Scenic Rim Trail Hike

Take an easy hike along the rim for breathtaking views and opportunities to take memorable photos.
Hike from the village area.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at El Tovar Dining Room

End the day with a delicious meal in this historic lodge restaurant overlooking the canyon.
Dine at the lodge close to the rim.
USD100, 2 hours
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Day 7: Vibrant Vegas

Las Vegas, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Bellagio Buffet

Indulge in a lavish breakfast buffet with a variety of options for every palate.
Drive from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas via US-93 S.
USD150 for family, 2 hours

10:30AM

Explore the Strip

Take a leisurely walk along the famous Las Vegas Strip and sightsee the extravagant hotels and attractions.
Head to the Strip after breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Enjoy another delicious burger experience at this beloved fast-food spot.
Short drive off the Strip.
USD35, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit The Neon Museum

Learn about the history of Las Vegas through iconic neon signs in this outdoor museum, engaging for the whole family.
Drive to the museum.
USD50 for family tickets, 2 hours

4:30PM

Magic Show at The Excalibur

Watch a family-friendly magic show that will entertain and amaze audiences of all ages.
Short drive to Excalibur.
USD100 for family tickets, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Kem's Restaurant

Enjoy a comfortable dining experience with delicious and varied menu options for everyone.
Drive to Kem’s from The Excalibur.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Homeward Bound

San Francisco, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Enjoy a comforting breakfast at this family favourite spot before heading back home.
Drive back to San Francisco via I-5 N.
USD30, 4 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Mel's Drive-In

A nostalgic diner experience with burgers, fries, and shakes to relive diner culture.
Drive to the diner in San Francisco.
USD45, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Relax at Golden Gate Park

Spend your last afternoon enjoying the park’s beauty, visiting playgrounds, or flying a kite.
Short drive to the park.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Cliff House

End your road trip with a stunning sunset view while enjoying delicious seafood at this iconic restaurant.
Drive to the Cliff House.
USD100, 2 hours

6:30PM

Head Home

Reflect on the amazing memories made during your incredible road trip!
Drive back home.
Free, Varies
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