10-Day Family Adventure: West Coast USA Including Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, California

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with a hearty breakfast of French toast or crab omelets at Mama's, a favorite among locals.
Head east on Washington Square towards Columbus Ave.
USD20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Exploratorium

Dive into the world of science with interactive exhibits at the Exploratorium, where kids and adults alike can explore and learn.
Drive to Pier 15; parking available.
USD40, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Fisherman’s Wharf

Enjoy fresh clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from one of the iconic vendors at Fisherman’s Wharf.
Walk down the waterfront.
USD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Ride a Cable Car

Hop on a classic San Francisco cable car and experience the steep hills and scenic views.
Board at Powell Street Station.
USD10, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Golden Gate Park

Stroll through this vast urban oasis, visiting gardens and playgrounds along the way.
Drive to Golden Gate Park; parking available.
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Stinking Rose

Indulge in garlic-infused dishes at this unique restaurant located in North Beach, perfect for adventurous eaters.
Drive to The Stinking Rose.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of San Francisco

San Francisco, California

8:30AM

Breakfast at Dottie’s True Blue Cafe

Kick off your day with fluffy pancakes and gourmet coffee at this cozy diner.
Head southeast to the café.
USD25, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Alcatraz Island

Take a ferry to the infamous prison island and explore its rich history.
Board ferry at Pier 33; tickets purchased in advance recommended.
USD50, 2.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Boudin Bakery

Delight in freshly baked sourdough and sandwiches while watching the bakers at work.
Walk back to Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Crissy Field

Let the kids run wild at this scenic park with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Drive to Crissy Field parking area.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit California Academy of Sciences

Discover the aquarium, planetarium, and natural history museum all in one spot.
Drive to Golden Gate Park, then walk in.
USD40, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Melt

Grab a quick and cheesy dinner with gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches and tomato soup.
Drive back towards your hotel.
USD50, 1 hour
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Day 3: Drive to Santa Barbara

Santa Barbara, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant & Bakery

Enjoy a delightful breakfast featuring pastries, eggs, and great coffee to fuel your road trip.
Drive south to Santa Barbara (approx. 90 miles, 1.5 hours).
USD30, 1 hour

10:00AM

Santa Barbara Zoo

Experience a compact yet charming zoo that’s perfect for families, featuring a great collection of animals.
Visit the zoo located along the coast.
USD50, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Santa Barbara Public Market

Explore a variety of food stalls and eateries offering local flavors for a relaxed lunch.
Short drive or a pleasant walk away.
USD40, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Stearns Wharf

Take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and visit shops and an aquarium.
Walk towards the wharf.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Relax at East Beach

Spend the afternoon playing in the sand and enjoying the sun at family-friendly East Beach.
Drive to East Beach parking lot.
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Black Sheep

Savor modern comfort food with a twist, where kid-friendly options are available.
Short drive from East Beach.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Explore Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Dig into oversized pancakes and eclectic breakfast dishes to start your day right.
Drive to West Hollywood (approx. 90 miles, 1.5 hours).
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the boulevard and spot your favorite stars’ names on the famous sidewalk.
Walk to the Hollywood area.
Free, 1 hour

11:00AM

Discover Griffith Observatory

Explore exhibits and enjoy stunning views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood Sign.
Drive to Griffith Park.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

No trip to California is complete without a stop at this iconic burger joint.
Drive to a nearby In-N-Out location.
USD30, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit the Natural History Museum

Discover fascinating exhibits including dinosaurs and an impressive gemstone collection.
Short drive to the museum.
USD60, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Enjoy a family-friendly dinner from a vast menu, including delicious cheesecakes to finish your meal.
Drive to The Cheesecake Factory.
USD90, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Drive to Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Coffee Shop

Fuel your journey with hearty breakfast options at this lively diner.
Set out towards Las Vegas (approx. 270 miles, 4.5 hours).
USD30, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Planet Hollywood’s Café

Stop for lunch at this fun-themed restaurant that offers something for every palate.
Head to the Strip upon arrival.
USD70, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Explore the Las Vegas Strip

Walk along the famous Strip, marveling at the impressive hotels and attractions.
Walk along Las Vegas Boulevard.
Free, 2 hours

3:30PM

Visit the High Roller Observation Wheel

Take a ride on the world's tallest observation wheel for breathtaking views of the city.
Walk to The LINQ Promenade.
USD80, 1 hour

5:00PM

Dinner at Serendipity 3

Savor the delightful comfort food and famous frozen hot chocolate in a whimsical setting.
Walk to Serendipity 3.
USD70, 1.5 hours

7:00PM

Watch the Fountains of Bellagio

Catch the enchanting fountain show at the Bellagio—an awe-inspiring spectacle for all ages.
Short walk from dinner.
Free, 30 minutes
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Day 6: Enjoy Las Vegas

Las Vegas, Nevada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Hash House A Go Go

Start your day with a plateful of their famous hearty dishes, perfect fuel for a fun day ahead.
Drive to the restaurant.
USD40, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Shark Reef Aquarium

Explore the underwater world filled with fascinating sea creatures and an immersive shark tunnel.
Head to Mandalay Bay.
USD50, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Buffet at Excalibur

Enjoy a lavish buffet with a variety of options sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Head to Excalibur on the Strip.
USD60, 1.5 hours

1:30PM

Visit the Adventuredome

Have a blast at this indoor amusement park with rides and attractions for the entire family.
Double check the location in Circus Circus.
USD100, 3 hours

4:30PM

Relax at your hotel

Take some time to recharge before your evening adventures.
Return to your hotel.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Pizza Rock

Enjoy delicious, locally inspired pizzas and fun atmosphere, sure to rock the whole family.
Drive to Pizza Rock.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Drive to Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, Arizona

7:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy a quick breakfast before setting off for the Grand Canyon.
Depart Las Vegas.
Free, 1 hour

8:00AM

Drive to Grand Canyon South Rim

Enjoy a scenic drive along the way to this breathtaking natural wonder.
Travel approximately 275 miles (4.5 hours).
Gas, 4.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at El Tovar Dining Room

Indulge in a delicious meal with stunning canyon views at this historic restaurant.
Located at the Grand Canyon Village.
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Grand Canyon Visitor Center

Learn all about the history and geology of one of the Natural Wonders of the World.
Short walk from lunch.
USD10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore South Rim Trails

Take in the breathtaking views by walking along the well-maintained trails of the South Rim.
Starting from the Visitor Center.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at the Grand Canyon Village

Enjoy a casual dinner with a family-friendly menu at one of the restaurants in the village.
Walk to nearby dining option.
USD50, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: More of Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, Arizona

7:30AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up with breakfast before another day of adventure at the Grand Canyon.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast provided by your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Explore Bright Angel Trail

Take a family-friendly hike down the iconic Bright Angel Trail, offering amazing canyon views.
Access from Grand Canyon Village.
Free, 3 hours

12:30PM

Picnic Lunch at Mather Point

Pack a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the most iconic viewpoints in the Grand Canyon.
Return to Grand Canyon Village to pick up your lunch.
USD30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Desert View Watchtower

Climb the tower for panoramic views and educational exhibits about the canyon’s history.
Drive along Desert View Drive to the tower.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at A Date with the Grand Canyon

Relax and enjoy an evening dinner at this lovely dining option near the Grand Canyon.
Head back to the Grand Canyon Village.
USD70, 1.5 hours
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Day 9: Visit Hoover Dam

Hoover Dam, Nevada

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Enjoy breakfast before setting off to Hoover Dam.
Check-out from your accommodation.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive to Hoover Dam

Take a short drive to the remarkable Hoover Dam and immerse yourself in its history.
Drive approximately 250 miles (4 hours).
Gas, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The Hoover Dam Café

Enjoy a filling lunch at the cafe while soaking in the views of the dam.
Located near the dam.
USD40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Hoover Dam

Take a guided tour to learn about the engineering marvel and the history behind it.
Join a tour at the visitor center.
USD30, 2 hours

4:30PM

Drive Back to Las Vegas

Return to Las Vegas and enjoy the night ambiance as you drive.
Head back approximately 35 miles.
Gas, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The LINQ Promenade

Enjoy an array of dining options in a vibrant environment suited for families.
Drive or walk to The LINQ.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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Day 10: Return to San Francisco

San Francisco, California

8:00AM

Breakfast at Your Hotel

Fuel up for your journey home with breakfast in Las Vegas.
Pack your bags and check-out.
Free, 1 hour

9:00AM

Drive Back to San Francisco

Travel back to San Francisco (approx. 570 miles, 8.5 hours), reflecting on your memories from the trip.
Head west to San Francisco.
Gas, 8.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Sotto Mare

Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner on your last night in San Francisco, reminiscing about your trip.
Situated in North Beach.
USD80, 1.5 hours
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