Affordable Family-Friendly Road Trip: Seattle to Grand Canyon & Back

Day 1: Seattle Exploration

Seattle, WA

8:00AM

The Crumpet Shop

Start your day with delightful homemade crumpets paired with delicious tea at this charming little shop in Pike Place Market.
Park your trailer at a nearby camp spot and explore the market on foot.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Pike Place Market

Wander through this iconic market, sampling local treats, watching fishmongers toss salmon, and exploring various artisanal shops.
Walk around at your leisure.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Beecher's Cheese

Grab a gooey grilled cheese sandwich made from freshly made cheddar before heading out of town.
Walk back to the market.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30PM

Drive to Portland

Hit the road towards Portland, enjoying the scenic views along I-5.
Drive approximately 3 hours.
Fuel USD30, 3 hours

5:00PM

Settle at Jantzen Beach RV Park

Check into this family-friendly and dog-friendly RV park on the Columbia River.
Navigate to Jantzen Beach using GPS.
USD45, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Salmon Grill

Enjoy delicious fresh salmon and a lovely river view to end your day.
Just a short walk from the RV park.
USD20, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 2: Portland to Mount Shasta

Portland, OR

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pine State Coffee

Indulge in a rich cup of coffee and a mouthwatering breakfast sandwich to fuel up for the day.
Head out from the RV park.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Mount Shasta

Embark on your journey to Mount Shasta, taking in the beautiful scenery along I-5.
Drive approximately 4 hours.
Fuel USD40, 4 hours

1:30PM

Picnic Lunch at Mount Shasta City Park

Arrive and enjoy a budget-friendly picnic lunch in the park surrounded by lovely mountain views.
Stop at a grocery store on the way for DIY sandwiches.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Mount Shasta

Take a leisurely bike ride around the lake or hike through the forest trails while your dog enjoys the outdoors.
Explore the trails available in the area.
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Lil' Ray's

Relish a family-friendly diner experience featuring local favorites like burgers and fries.
Short drive from city park.
USD12, 1 hour

7:30PM

Settle into Lake Shastina RV Park

End your day and park your trailer at this scenic RV park perfect for families and pets.
Navigate to Lake Shastina using GPS.
USD35, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 3: Mount Shasta Adventures

Mount Shasta, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Starbucks

Grab a quick breakfast sandwich and your favorite beverage before heading out for the day’s activities.
Drive to the local Starbucks.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Mount Shasta Hiking

Pack accordingly for a breathtaking hike with incredible views of the mountain’s peak and surrounding areas.
Choose a trail that suits your family’s preference.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Dunsmuir Brewery Works

Cool down with house-made beers and enjoy their locally sourced menu with dog-friendly options on the patio.
Drive roughly 20 minutes back to Dunsmuir.
USD25, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Hedge Creek Falls

A short, beautiful hike leading to a scenic waterfall, perfect for family photos.
Drive about 10 minutes from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Bike around Lake Siskiyou

Enjoy a scenic bicycle ride around this beautiful lake, offering stunning mountain views.
Drive approximately 20 minutes to the lake.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Black Bear Diner

Finish the day with hearty American comfort food at this family-friendly establishment.
Return to the RV park.
USD20, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 4: Journey to Redding

Redding, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Bar

Start your day with locally roasted coffee and tasty pastries before hitting the road again.
Drive to the local café.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Redding

A short and scenic drive down I-5 to the next destination.
Drive approximately 30 minutes.
Fuel USD10, 0.5 hours

9:30AM

Visit Sundial Bridge

Explore Redding’s stunning pedestrian bridge and the surrounding Turtle Bay Exploration Park.
Easily accessible, park nearby.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Lunch at On Fire Pizza

Generously portioned pizzas make for a great family lunch.
Short drive from the bridge.
USD15, 1 hour

1:00PM

Explore Turtle Bay

Enjoy the park’s trails, gardens, and exhibits, all while providing fun education for the kids.
Walk back to the park.
USD10, 3 hours

4:30PM

Settle into Lake Redding RV Park

Park your trailer at this comfortable and budget-friendly RV site.
Drive to the RV park.
USD40, 20 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Park Grill

Taste local favorites in a family-friendly atmosphere surrounded by nature.
Nearby dining option at the park.
USD18, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 5: Heading to Sacramento

Sacramento, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Village Bakery

Savor homemade pastries or a fresh breakfast burrito to start your day well.
A short drive from the RV Park.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Sacramento

Continue along I-5 to the state capital, enjoying pleasant views along the way.
Drive approximately 2.5 hours.
Fuel USD20, 2.5 hours

11:30AM

Visit California State Railroad Museum

Immerse yourself in the rich history of trains and transportation, making it fascinating for kids and adults alike.
Easy walking distance from parking.
USD12, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Place

Enjoy a delicious meal with diverse menu options served in a family-friendly environment.
Navigate nearby roads.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Old Sacramento

Wander through the historic area, enjoy fun shops, and find interactive exhibits that engage children.
Just a short walk from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Settle in Sacramento RV Park

Park at the Sacramento RV Park, offering family-friendly and pet-friendly facilities.
Use GPS to find the RV park.
USD40, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Old Spaghetti Factory

Indulge in affordably priced pasta dishes served in a funky, old-world setting.
Drive close to the RV park.
USD20, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 6: Onward to Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Egg Slut

Enjoy a unique breakfast sandwich experience sure to delight the whole family.
Drive approximately 15 minutes.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Los Angeles

Hit the road early for the overlooked route to Los Angeles while exploring the coastal landscape.
Drive about 6-7 hours depending on traffic.
Fuel USD75, 7 hours

4:00PM

Visit Venice Beach

Take a stroll along this iconic beach, watching the waves and street performers.
Locate parking near the beach.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at California Pizza Kitchen

Enjoy delicious pizzas with fresh ingredients in a kid-friendly atmosphere.
Short drive from Venice Beach.
USD20, 1 hour

8:00PM

Settle at Dockweiler State Beach RV Park

Camp near the beach with convenient access to LA-area attractions.
Follow directions to the RV park.
USD65, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 7: Exploring Los Angeles

Los Angeles, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Café

Indulge in massive pancakes that will satisfy breakfast lovers of all ages.
Drive to the café just close to the RV park.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Griffith Park

Take the family hiking trails up to Griffith Observatory for stunning views of the city.
Drive to Griffith Park, should be easy to navigate.
Free, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience California’s famous burger chain for a quick and affordable meal that kids adore.
Find a nearby In-N-Out.
USD12, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Hollywood Boulevard

Walk along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, snapping photos with the stars of your favorite actors.
Park at a nearby lot on Hollywood Blvd.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Relax at Dockweiler Beach

Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, perfect for unwinding the family before dinner.
Stay at the beach near the RV park.
Free, 2.5 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

End your LA adventure with an amazing meal, enjoying a large menu selection for the whole family.
Easy drive from the beach.
USD25, 1.5 hours
View Hotel Availability

Day 8: Onward to Las Vegas

Las Vegas, NV

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Egg & I

Enjoy wholesome breakfast dishes to power you up for a day of adventure.
Drive to the eatery nearby.
USD15, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Las Vegas

Take the scenic route through the Mojave Desert as you head to the entertainment capital.
Drive approximately 4-5 hours.
Fuel USD40, 5 hours

2:00PM

Check-in at Las Vegas RV Resort

Settle down at this comfortable and great location for families with fun activities.
Use GPS to navigate to the resort.
USD60, 30 minutes

3:30PM

Visit The Strip

Take a stroll along the famous Las Vegas Strip, enjoying sights and attractions along the way.
Short drive from the resort.
Free to explore, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Spaghetti Factory

Enjoy delicious pasta dishes in a comfortable environment making it great for families.
Short drive from The Strip.
USD18, 1 hour

8:00PM

Watch the Fountains of Bellagio Show

Conclude your evening with a free spectacle of dancing waters set to music.
Short walk from your dinner location.
Free, 30 minutes
View Hotel Availability

Day 9: Grand Canyon Exploration

Grand Canyon, AZ

7:00AM

Breakfast at RV

Prepare breakfast in your trailer to enjoy a relaxed morning before heading out.
Prepare breakfast in the RV.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Grand Canyon National Park

Set off early for a scenic drive to one of the natural wonders of the world.
Drive approximately 4.5 hours.
Fuel USD50, 4.5 hours

1:00PM

Entry into Grand Canyon

Enter the park, taking in the breathtaking views that the Grand Canyon is famous for.
Stop at the Visitor's Center first.
USD35 (entry fee for vehicle), 0.5 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at El Tovar Dining Room

Dine on delicious local cuisine with striking views of the canyon.
Located within the park.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Rim Trail

Bike along the Rim Trail to view various vantage points, making for half the adventure exciting.
Rent bikes if needed.
Possible bike rental fee of USD15., 3 hours

6:30PM

Settle at Grand Canyon Trailer Village

Check into the RV park that offers great views and amenities inside the park.
Follow park signs.
USD70, 30 minutes

7:30PM

Dinner at Trailer Village Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty dinner with local ingredients before winding down for the night.
Located at the RV park.
USD20, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 10: Grand Canyon Adventures

Grand Canyon, AZ

7:00AM

Breakfast at RV

Another day, another breakfast in the trailer for an easy start!
Prepare breakfast in the RV.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00AM

Visit South Rim

Take a guided tour or explore the South Rim, capturing family memories with stunning views.
Utilize park guides for trail options.
Free, 5 hours

1:30PM

Picnic Lunch in the Park

Prepare sandwiches from your RV and enjoy a picnic surrounded by nature.
Find a picnic area designated in the park.
USD15 (sandwich supplies), 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Desert View Watchtower

Climb the tower for a spectacular view and history insights of the Grand Canyon.
Drive to the site.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Biking along the Rim Trail

Get back on the bikes for more views along the Rim with ample photo opportunities.
Follow the established trail.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Grand Canyon Lodge Restaurant

Enjoy your final evening meal with breathtaking canyon views and delightful dishes for the family.
Drive to the lodge from your campsite.
USD30, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 11: Flagstaff Journey

Flagstaff, AZ

8:00AM

Breakfast at RV

Another relaxed breakfast in your travel trailer to kick off the day.
Utilize your RV kitchen.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Flagstaff

Head east towards Flagstaff, with beautiful landscapes along the way.
Drive approximately 1.5 hours.
Fuel USD15, 1.5 hours

10:30AM

Explore Lowell Observatory

Discover the universe through this renowned observatory; check out the daytime tours available.
Use GPS to find the observatory.
USD10 (for children and adults), 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Beaver Street Brewery

Enjoy the local brew and delicious pub-style meals fit for every family member.
Short drive from the observatory.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Bike the Flagstaff Urban Trail System

Explore the vast and scenic trails in Flagstaff for all ages, including family-friendly options.
Easily accessible from the downtown area.
Free, 2.5 hours

4:30PM

Settle into Flagstaff KOA

Check-in at this welcoming KOA park, where families and pets are always invited.
Drive to the KOA.
USD50, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at The Northern Pines Restaurant

Enjoy a home-style meal featuring state-inspired dishes.
Short drive from your park.
USD25, 1 hour
View Hotel Availability

Day 12: Return to Seattle

Seattle, WA

8:00AM

Breakfast at RV

Savor your last breakfast in the trailer and start packing up.
Prepare food in your RV.
USD10, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to Seattle

Begin your journey back home, making one last scenic drive.
Drive approximately 19 hours, split into two days if necessary.
Fuel USD150, 19 hours
View Hotel Availability