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Epic USA Road Trip: From Los Angeles to New York - May 2025

Viewed by 261 travelers

Day 1: Arrive in LA

Los Angeles, CA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe 101

Kick off your adventure with a hearty breakfast at Cafe 101, famous for its American brunch classics.
Located in North Hollywood, a quick drive with ample parking.
USD15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the iconic Hollywood Walk of Fame and snap pictures with your favorite stars.
A short 20-minute drive from the café.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Grab a classic California burger at In-N-Out, a must-try for any first-timer.
Less than a mile from the Walk of Fame.
USD10, 1 hour

2:30PM

Griffith Observatory

Enjoy panoramic views of downtown LA and the Hollywood sign from Griffith Observatory.
Drive 20 minutes to the observatory.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cliff Dive

End your day with a relaxed dinner at The Cliff Dive, offering great ambiance and flavorful dishes.
A 30-minute drive from Griffith.
USD35, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 2: Drive to San Diego

San Diego, CA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Dine at The Cottage in La Jolla, known for its fresh breakfast menu.
A 30-minute drive from downtown LA.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit La Jolla Cove

Explore the stunning marine life and scenery at La Jolla Cove.
Just a short drive from The Cottage.
Free, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

San Diego Zoo

Spend time discovering one of the most famous zoos in the world, home to over 3,700 animals.
A 20-minute drive from La Jolla Cove.
USD65, 3 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at The Fish Market

Savor fresh seafood at The Fish Market while overlooking the bay.
Only a 10-minute drive from the zoo.
USD30, 1 hour

4:30PM

Sunset Cliffs Natural Park

Relax at Sunset Cliffs Park to witness a mesmerizing ocean sunset.
A 15-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Juniper & Ivy

Experience fine dining at Juniper & Ivy, where seasonal ingredients shine.
A 20-minute drive from Sunset Cliffs.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 3: Head to Phoenix

Phoenix, AZ

8:00AM

Breakfast at Snooze, An A.M. Eatery

Dive into a delicious breakfast experience at Snooze, famous for its pancakes.
Quick drive of 10 minutes from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

11:00AM

Drive to Phoenix

Enjoy the scenic route as you travel through the desert landscape en route to Phoenix.
About a 4-hour drive.
Fuel cost approx. USD30, 4 hours

3:00PM

Check into hotel

Settle into your hotel before venturing out to explore Phoenix.
Select a downtown hotel for easy access.
Varies, 1 hour

4:00PM

Visit Desert Botanical Garden

Explore this delightful garden showcasing desert flora in a stunning landscape.
Only a 15-minute drive from your hotel.
USD24, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Pizzeria Bianco

Indulge in some of the best pizza in America at Pizzeria Bianco.
A quick 10-minute drive from the garden.
USD25, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Phoenix

Day 4: Santa Fe Bound

Santa Fe, NM

8:00AM

Breakfast at Matt's El Rancho

Enjoy a taste of New Mexican cuisine at this vibrant eatery.
A 15-minute drive from your hotel.
USD18, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Santa Fe

Embark on a picturesque drive to Santa Fe, known for its Pueblo-style architecture.
Around a 7-hour drive with scenic views along the way.
Fuel cost approx. USD40, 7 hours

5:00PM

Check into hotel

Unwind at your hotel in downtown Santa Fe.
Choose a hotel close to the plaza.
Varies, 1 hour

6:00PM

Explore the Plaza

Wander around Santa Fe's historic plaza, enjoy shops, and view local art.
Just a few blocks from your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

7:30PM

Dinner at The Shed

Savor traditional New Mexican cuisine at The Shed, known for its chilies.
A short 5-minute walk.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Fe

Day 5: Austin Awaits

Austin, TX

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Pasqual's

Start your day with a colorful breakfast of local favorites at this charming café.
10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Georgia O'Keeffe Museum

Explore the impressive collection of works by the famous artist Georgia O'Keeffe.
A short walk from the café.
USD12, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Drive to Austin

Travel to Austin, Texas, the live music capital.
A 10-hour drive, so enjoy the Texas scenery.
Fuel cost approx. USD50, 10 hours

9:00PM

Check into hotel

Settle in at your hotel in downtown Austin.
Select a centrally located hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

10:00PM

Late Dinner at Torchy's Tacos

Grab some late-night tacos at this iconic spot, perfect for night owls.
A quick drive from your hotel.
USD12, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Austin

Day 6: New Orleans Experience

New Orleans, LA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Juan's Flying Burrito

Feast on a flavorful breakfast burrito at Juan's, loved by locals.
A short walk from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the French Quarter

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the French Quarter, filled with music and history.
10-minute walk from breakfast.
Free, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Café du Monde

Savor beignets and coffee at the iconic Cafe du Monde.
A short walk from the French Quarter.
USD10, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the National WWII Museum

Visit this world-class museum dedicated to the events of World War II.
A 10-minute drive or 20-minute walk.
USD28, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Commander's Palace

End the day with a lavish dinner at Commander's Palace, a New Orleans institution.
A short drive from the museum.
USD65, 2 hours
Find Hotels in New Orleans

Day 7: Nashville Adventure

Nashville, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pancake Pantry

Indulge in fluffy pancakes at this beloved brunch spot.
A quick drive from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Country Music Hall of Fame

Delve into the history of country music and see memorabilia from legendary artists.
A 15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD25, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Hattie B's Hot Chicken

Try the famous Nashville hot chicken at Hattie B’s, a local favorite.
A quick 10-minute drive.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Music Row

Drive through Music Row and see the heart of Nashville's music industry.
A 10-minute drive from lunch.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Catbird Seat

Experience creative cuisine at this unique dining concept where chefs prepare meals in front of you.
A 15-minute drive.
USD85, 2.5 hours
Find Hotels in Nashville

Day 8: Memphis Memories

Memphis, TN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Blue Plate Cafe

Start your day with a delicious, homestyle breakfast at Blue Plate Cafe.
A quick drive from your hotel.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Graceland

Discover Elvis Presley’s iconic home and learn about the King of Rock and Roll.
15-minute drive from breakfast.
USD45, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken

Taste what has been called the best fried chicken in Memphis.
A short drive from Graceland.
USD15, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Beale Street

Visit the historic blues district and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
Just 10 minutes by car.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Peabody Hotel Rooftop

Enjoy a memorable dinner while enjoying views of the Memphis skyline.
A quick drive to the hotel.
USD50, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Memphis

Day 9: Head to St. Louis

St. Louis, MO

8:00AM

Breakfast at Rise Coffee

Fuel your day with a delicious cup of coffee and fresh pastries at Rise.
10 minutes from your hotel.
USD10, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit the Gateway Arch

Visit the iconic Gateway Arch and learn about America's westward expansion.
A quick 15-minute drive.
USD15, 1.5 hours

11:30AM

Drive to Chicago

Enjoy an enjoyable road trip from St. Louis to Chicago, passing through the heart of Illinois.
A scenic 4.5-hour drive.
Fuel cost approx. USD30, 4.5 hours

4:00PM

Check into hotel in Chicago

Get settled in at your hotel that offers great city views.
Choose a centrally-located hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

5:30PM

Visit Millennium Park

Take a stroll and snap photos with the famous Cloud Gate sculpture (The Bean).
A 10-minute walk from the hotel.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

Satisfy your cravings with Chicago-style deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's.
A short drive or 15-minute walk from Millennium Park.
USD30, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in St. Louis

Day 10: Chicago Culture

Chicago, IL

8:00AM

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

Devour delicious pancakes and breakfast options that will fuel your day.
A 10-minute walk from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Art Institute of Chicago

Browse one of the oldest and largest art museums in the U.S. showcasing stunning art collections.
A short walk from breakfast.
USD25, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Eataly Chicago

Enjoy a meal at this vibrant Italian marketplace with a variety of dining options.
A short walk from the Art Institute.
USD30, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore Navy Pier

Stroll along the iconic pier with shops, restaurants, and a beautiful waterfront view.
A 10-minute drive from Eataly.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Dinner at The Signature Room

Dine above the city skyline at this upscale restaurant located on the 95th floor of the John Hancock Center.
A 15-minute drive from Navy Pier.
USD70, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Chicago

Day 11: Road to Indianapolis

Indianapolis, IN

8:00AM

Breakfast at Milktooth

Savor a creative brunch at Milktooth, known for its locally sourced ingredients.
A 10-minute drive from your hotel.
USD25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Indianapolis

Enjoy a smooth drive as you head to Indianapolis, known for its sports and cultural venues.
A 3-hour scenic drive.
Fuel cost approx. USD20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check into hotel in Indianapolis

Settle in at your hotel before heading out to explore the city.
Choose a downtown hotel.
Varies, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Indianapolis Motor Speedway

Get a glimpse at the famous racetrack that hosts the Indy 500.
A short drive from your hotel.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at St. Elmo Steak House

Indulge in a classic steakhouse experience at the historic St. Elmo.
A quick drive from the speedway.
USD60, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Indianapolis

Day 12: Towards Columbus

Columbus, OH

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pâtisserie Poulin

Enjoy authentic French pastries and coffee to start the day.
A short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

10:00AM

Drive to Columbus

Make your way to Columbus, the capital of Ohio.
A 3-hour drive.
Fuel cost approx. USD20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check into hotel in Columbus

Get settled at your chosen hotel in downtown Columbus.
Located centrally.
Varies, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium

Witness amazing wildlife at one of the best zoos in the country.
A 20-minute drive from the hotel.
USD25, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Refectory

Relish an exquisite dining experience at this fine dining restaurant.
A short drive from the zoo.
USD75, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Columbus

Day 13: Pittsburgh Pitstop

Pittsburgh, PA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Pamela's Diner

Savor signature pancakes and breakfast specials at this popular diner.
A short drive from your hotel.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Pittsburgh

Take a beautiful drive to Pittsburgh, known for its steel industry history.
About a 3-hour drive.
Fuel cost approx. USD20, 3 hours

1:00PM

Check into hotel in Pittsburgh

Unwind at your hotel before exploring the city.
Choose a hote in downtown.
Varies, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit PPG Place

Discover this stunning glass building and enjoy shopping and dining.
A short drive or walk from your hotel.
Free, 1 hour

4:00PM

Dinner at Primanti Bros.

Try the famous Primanti Bros. sandwich, a Pittsburgh classic.
A 10-minute drive from PPG Place.
USD15, 1 hour
Find Hotels in Pittsburgh

Day 14: Philadelphia Phabulous

Philadelphia, PA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Cafe Lift

Enjoy a creative breakfast menu at this hip eatery in Philadelphia.
A quick drive from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Liberty Bell

See the iconic symbol of American independence in Philadelphia.
A 10-minute drive from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

11:30AM

Drive to New York

Travel to New York City, the final destination of your trip.
A 2-hour drive.
Fuel cost approx. USD10, 2 hours

2:00PM

Check into hotel in NYC

Welcome to the Big Apple! Check into your hotel and relax.
Choose a hotel in Manhattan.
Varies, 1 hour

3:30PM

Relax in Central Park

Spend a leisurely afternoon enjoying the beauty of Central Park.
Easy access from your hotel.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The View Restaurant

Enjoy a rotating dining experience with stunning views of the NYC skyline.
Located at the Marriott Marquis in Times Square.
USD100, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Philadelphia

Day 15: Goodbye NYC

New York, NY

9:00AM

Breakfast at Jack's Wife Freda

Start your day with a delightful brunch featuring a mix of Mediterranean and American dishes.
A short walk from your hotel.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the 9/11 Memorial

Pay your respects at the Memorial dedicated to those who lost their lives in the September 11 attacks.
15-minute subway ride from breakfast.
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen

Experience a classic New York deli with pastrami sandwiches and pickles.
A 15-minute subway ride from the memorial.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore SoHo

Stroll through SoHo's cobblestone streets to explore the shops and art galleries.
Easy access on foot from the deli.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Nobu

End your trip with an upscale meal at the world-renowned Nobu restaurant.
A short drive or subway ride from SoHo.
USD150, 2 hours
Find Hotels in New York
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