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14-Day Family-Friendly Road Trip from San Francisco to Las Vegas

Viewed by 83 travelers

Day 1: Explore San Francisco

San Francisco, USA

9:00AM

Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square

Start your day with a delicious family breakfast at this popular restaurant known for its fresh ingredients and hearty portions.
After breakfast, walk to Fisherman's Wharf (a 15-minute walk).
USD20, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Visit the Exploratorium

A hands-on science museum that will captivate both kids and adults, offering interactive exhibits and displays.
Drive to the Exploratorium (15-minute drive).
USD99, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Pier 39

Enjoy lunch at Pier 39, where you can find many family-friendly dining options with views of the bay.
Walk around Pier 39 after lunch and enjoy the sea lions.
USD60, 2 hours

4:00PM

Stroll Across the Golden Gate Bridge

Take a scenic walk across this iconic bridge and marvel at the breathtaking views of the bay and city.
Drive to the Golden Gate Bridge Entrance (15-minute drive).
Free, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

End your day with a family dinner at this well-known restaurant offering a diverse menu.
Drive to The Cheesecake Factory in Union Square (20-minutes).
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Francisco

Day 2: Santa Cruz Fun

Santa Cruz, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Zachary's

Grab a hearty breakfast with local favorites and fresh ingredients to fuel your day.
Drive to Santa Cruz (1.5-hour drive).
USD50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Enjoy a variety of rides and attractions at this famous amusement park located right on the beach.
Walk to the boardwalk (5-minute walk).
USD120, 3 hours

1:30PM

Lunch at Ideal Bar & Grill

Relax with ocean views while you enjoy burgers, fries, and other casual meals.
Walk to the restaurant (10-minute walk).
USD70, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore Natural Bridges State Beach

Spend the afternoon on the beach and watch for migrating monarch butterflies if in season.
Drive to Natural Bridges State Beach (10-minute drive).
USD10, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Crow's Nest

Enjoy your meal overlooking the harbor with fresh seafood and kids' menu options.
Drive to The Crow's Nest (10 minutes).
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Cruz

Day 3: Monterey Adventures

Monterey, USA

7:30AM

Breakfast at First Awakenings

Start with breakfast featuring delicious omelets and pancakes that the kids will love!
Drive to Monterey (45-minute drive).
USD65, 1 hour

9:00AM

Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium

Explore one of the world's leading aquariums, which features engaging exhibits on marine life.
Walk to the aquarium (15-minute walk).
USD120, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Cannery Row Brewing Company

Refuel with tasty burgers and locally crafted beers right on Cannery Row.
Walk to the restaurant (5-minute walk).
USD75, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Explore 17-Mile Drive

Take a scenic drive through Pacific Grove and Pebble Beach, stopping at beautiful viewpoints along the way.
Drive along 17-Mile Drive (15-minute drive).
USD10, 2.5 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at The Fish Hopper

End the day with a seafood dinner and impressive views of the ocean.
Drive to The Fish Hopper (10-minute drive).
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Monterey

Day 4: San Luis Obispo Fun

San Luis Obispo, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Sally Loo's Wholesome Cafe

Enjoy fresh local ingredients in your breakfast that sets you up for the day ahead.
Drive to San Luis Obispo (2-hour drive).
USD55, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the San Luis Obispo Children's Museum

Engage your kids with hands-on activities at this interactive museum designed for children.
Walk to the museum (5-minute walk).
USD40, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Firestone Grill

Savor delicious tri-tip sandwiches and tasty sides at this local favorite lunch spot.
Walk to the restaurant (5-minute walk).
USD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore the famous Bubblegum Alley

Check out this quirky alley known for its colorful walls covered in chewing gum left by visitors.
Walk to Bubblegum Alley (5-minute walk).
Free, 30 minutes

3:00PM

Visit Mission San Luis Obispo de Tolosa

Discover the history of the charming mission founded in 1772.
Drive to the mission (5-minute drive).
USD10, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at Luna Red

Enjoy a delicious dinner featuring seasonal and organic selections from local farmers.
Drive to Luna Red (5-minute drive).
USD80, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in San Luis Obispo

Day 5: Santa Barbara Relaxation

Santa Barbara, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Jeannine's Restaurant

This cozy restaurant offers a variety of baked goods and breakfast items that will delight everyone.
Drive to Santa Barbara (1.5-hour drive).
USD75, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore the Santa Barbara Zoo

A family-friendly zoo that’s perfect for kids, featuring close-up animal encounters and beautiful ocean views.
Drive to the zoo (10-minute drive).
USD62, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Habit Burger Grill

Enjoy some of California's best burgers at this fast-casual chain restaurant loved by locals.
Drive to The Habit (10-minute drive).
USD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Relax at East Beach

Spend the afternoon playing beach volleyball, building sandcastles, or enjoying the ocean.
Drive to East Beach (5-minute drive).
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Shoreline Beach Cafe

Savor a casual dinner at the beach, where you can enjoy the sunset with delicious food.
Walk to the cafe (10-minute walk).
USD85, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Santa Barbara

Day 6: Los Angeles City

Los Angeles, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Indulge in some of the biggest and tastiest pancakes you've ever had to start your Los Angeles adventure.
Drive to Los Angeles (1.5-hour drive).
USD90, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the La Brea Tar Pits

Experience this famous natural tar pit and museum, showcasing fascinating fossils of prehistoric creatures.
Drive to La Brea Tar Pits (15-minute drive).
USD60, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Pink's Hot Dogs

Enjoy the legendary hot dogs at this iconic Los Angeles eatery.
Drive to Pink's (15-minute drive).
USD50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Explore Griffith Park and Observatory

Hike or take a leisurely stroll around this beautiful park and enjoy the views of the Hollywood sign.
Drive to Griffith Park (15-minute drive).
Free, 3 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Original Farmers Market

Explore a variety of food options at this vibrant marketplace where you can cater to everyone's taste.
Drive to Farmers Market (20-minute drive).
USD80, 2 hours
Find Hotels in Los Angeles

Day 7: Disneyland Magic

Anaheim, USA

7:00AM

Breakfast at Denny's

Fuel up with classic American diner breakfast before heading to the magic.
Drive to Disneyland (45-minute drive).
USD65, 1 hour

8:15AM

Full Day at Disneyland

Enjoy a magical day filled with rides, merchandise, and character meet-and-greets at the Happiest Place on Earth.
Arrive early to avoid lines.
USD1,500, 10+ hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Plaza Inn

Indulge in their famous fried chicken while reflecting on a fun-filled day at Disneyland.
Dinner inside Disneyland.
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Anaheim

Day 8: San Diego Discovery

San Diego, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage La Jolla

Start your day with a delicious breakfast packed with fresh ingredients in a cozy atmosphere.
Drive to San Diego (1.5-hour drive).
USD70, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Balboa Park

Spend the morning exploring this urban park with gardens, museums, and plenty of family activities.
Drive to Balboa Park (15-minute drive).
USD20, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Fish Market

Enjoy fresh seafood and stunning views while dining right on the waterfront.
Drive to the restaurant (10-minute drive).
USD85, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

La Jolla Cove Exploration

Spend the afternoon kayaking, swimming, or picnicking at the beautiful cove, observing sea lions.
Drive to La Jolla Cove (25-minute drive).
Free, 3 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at George's at the Cove

Treat yourselves to a fantastic dinner with ocean views and a delectable menu.
Drive to George's (10-minute drive).
USD120, 2 hours
Find Hotels in San Diego

Day 9: Palm Springs Break

Palm Springs, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Koffi

Grab some delicious coffee and pastries from this local favorite to kickstart your day.
Drive to Palm Springs (2-hour drive).
USD30, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens

Explore this unique desert preserve showcasing animals and plants from the world's deserts.
Drive to the preserve (15-minute drive).
USD40, 2.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Tyler's Burgers

Savor classic American burgers in this laid-back setting that kids will enjoy.
Drive to Tyler's (15-minute drive).
USD50, 1 hour

2:00PM

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Take a scenic tram ride to Mount San Jacinto for breathtaking mountain views and hiking opportunities.
Drive to the tramway station (20-minute drive).
USD120, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Cheeky's

Wrap up the day with a delightful dinner featuring farm-to-table dishes and creative cocktails.
Drive to Cheeky's (15-minute drive).
USD90, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Palm Springs

Day 10: Joshua Tree Adventure

Joshua Tree, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Crossroads Cafe

Enjoy breakfast classics to fuel your day exploring the unique landscapes of Joshua Tree.
Drive to Joshua Tree (1-hour drive).
USD40, 1 hour

10:00AM

Explore Joshua Tree National Park

Spend the day discovering the park’s otherworldly rock formations, hiking trails, and scenic vistas.
Enter the park from the nearest entrance.
USD30 (per vehicle), 5+ hours

4:00PM

Late Lunch at Pie for the People

After your adventure, enjoy delicious New York-style pizza to recharge.
Drive to Pie for the People (15-minute drive).
USD60, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Joshua Tree Music Festival (if in season)

If your visit coincides, enjoy live music in this vibrant community celebration.
Check festival timings for attendance.
Varies, 3 hours

9:00PM

Night Sky Observation

Spend the night looking up at the stars in one of the best dark sky locations in Southern California.
Stay within the park boundaries for best view.
Free, Variable
Find Hotels in Joshua Tree

Day 11: Barstow History

Barstow, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Denny's

Enjoy a classic diner breakfast before hitting the road to Barstow.
Drive to Barstow (1.5-hour drive).
USD40, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit the Route 66 Museum

Explore the history of the iconic Route 66 at this engaging stop, perfect for the road trip enthusiast.
Drive to the museum (10-minute drive).
USD10, 1 hour

11:15AM

Tour the Barstow Train Station

Visit this historic site to see antique trains and learn more about Barstow's railroad history.
Drive to the train station (5-minute drive).
Free, 1 hour

12:30PM

Lunch at Baby's Badass Burgers

Enjoy funky decor and delicious burgers for lunch in Barstow.
Drive to Baby's (5-minute drive).
USD60, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Calico Ghost Town

Travel back to the old west at this fun ghost town featuring history and entertainment.
Drive to Calico Ghost Town (15-minute drive).
USD30, 3 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Sizzler

Wrap up your day with a casual meal at this family-friendly chain.
Drive to Sizzler (10 minutes).
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Barstow

Day 12: Explore Death Valley

Death Valley, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The 49ers Cafe

Enjoy breakfast in a rustic setting that brings a taste of the Old West.
Drive to Death Valley (2 hours).
USD50, 1 hour

10:00AM

Visit Badwater Basin

Stand at the lowest point in North America and take in the spectacular scenery surrounding you.
Drive to Badwater Basin (30-minute drive).
Free, 1 hour

12:00PM

Lunch at Furnace Creek Ranch

Dine at a convenient stop within the park, serving up lunch options for the family.
Drive to Furnace Creek (15-minute drive).
USD70, 1 hour

1:30PM

Explore Zabriskie Point

Take in the stunning views and unique geological formations at this iconic lookout.
Drive to Zabriskie Point (30-minute drive).
Free, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit Dante's View

Experience breathtaking panoramic views from one of the highest points in the park.
Drive to Dante's View (30-minute drive).
Free, 1 hour

6:00PM

Dinner at The Last Kind Words Saloon

Enjoy dinner at the only bar in Death Valley National Park, perfect for relaxing after a long day.
Drive to The Last Kind Words (30-minute drive).
USD75, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Death Valley

Day 13: Discover Pahrump

Pahrump, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at Munchies

Savor breakfast in this cozy diner atmosphere with friendly service.
Drive to Pahrump (1.5-hour drive).
USD40, 1 hour

10:00AM

Tour the Pahrump Valley Winery

Explore this local winery and learn about winemaking in the desert region.
Drive to Pahrump Valley Winery (15-minute drive).
Free, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The 24/7 Cafe

Enjoy hearty cafe meals served round-the-clock for a filling lunch.
Drive to The 24/7 Cafe (10-minute drive).
USD60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Pahrump Nugget Hotel & Casino

Let the kids explore the arcade and family-friendly amenities while you relax.
Drive to the hotel (10-minute drive).
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Symphony's Restaurant

Indulge in a family dinner at this local favorite with great food.
Drive to Symphony's (10-minute drive).
USD70, 1.5 hours
Find Hotels in Pahrump

Day 14: Las Vegas Finale

Las Vegas, USA

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Buffet at Bellagio

Finish your epic road trip with a lavish breakfast buffet featuring a wide variety of delicious options.
Drive to Las Vegas Strip (1-hour drive).
USD150, 1.5 hours

10:00AM

Visit the Las Vegas Strip

Take a leisurely stroll along the strip and enjoy the theme hotels, street performances, and atmosphere.
Walk along the strip. Free parking available.
Free, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Hash House A Go Go

Dig into humongous portions of delicious food at this popular eatery known for creative comfort dishes.
Walk to Hash House A Go Go (15-minute walk).
USD80, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the High Roller Observation Wheel

Take in stunning views of the city from one of the highest observation wheels in the world.
Walk to the High Roller (15-minute walk).
USD120, 1 hour

4:00PM

Relax at a Resort Pool

Wind down your road trip with some relaxation at the resort's pool before heading home.
Return to your hotel or pool area.
Varies, Variable
Find Hotels in Las Vegas
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