Grand Canyon Adventure from San Diego: 5-Day Itinerary with an En Route Stay

Day 1: Travel to Grand Canyon

San Diego, CA on May 23, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

Start your journey with a delightful breakfast at The Cottage, known for their fresh pancakes and omelettes. The inviting atmosphere will give you the perfect send-off.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Drive to Grand Canyon

Begin your scenic drive from San Diego to the Grand Canyon, which takes approximately 6 hours to reach a stopover destination. Enjoy the beautiful California landscapes along the way.
USD0, 6 hours

3:30 PM

Stopover in Kingman, AZ

Arrive in Kingman, a charming town on Route 66. Take a break and explore this vintage town to stretch your legs.
USD0, 1 hour

4:30 PM

Check-in at Best Western Plus A Wayfarer's Inn

Settle in at this convenient hotel for an overnight stay with comfortable amenities to relax and recharge after your drive.
USD120, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at Cracker Barrel

Enjoy a homestyle dinner at Cracker Barrel known for its country cooking and famous biscuits. It's an inviting spot to fuel up for the next day's adventure.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Travel to Grand Canyon

Kingman, AZ to Grand Canyon, AZ on May 24, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a complimentary breakfast at your hotel before heading out to the Grand Canyon.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive to Grand Canyon

Continue your journey for a scenic drive of about 2 hours to the Grand Canyon. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Arizona along the way.
USD0, 2 hours

11:00 AM

Arrive at Grand Canyon National Park

Head to the Visitor Center as soon as you arrive to gather vital information and maps for a full day of exploration.
USD0, 30 minutes

11:30 AM

Explore Mather Point

Start your exploration at Mather Point for some stunning initial views of the canyon, perfect for capturing unforgettable photographs.
USD0, 1 hour

12:30 PM

Lunch at the Grand Canyon Village Market

Grab a quick, delicious lunch from the deli at the market, which offers sandwiches and salads ideal for adventurers.
USD12, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Hiking Bright Angel Trail

Spend the afternoon hiking the Bright Angel Trail for breathtaking views and an exhilarating experience. Ensure you bring plenty of water and snacks.
USD0, 3-5 hours

6:00 PM

Head to Tusayane Montane Campground

Make your way to Tusayane Montane Campground for check-in and settling in for your first night beneath the stars.
USD0, 30 minutes

6:30 PM

Dinner at Camp

Enjoy dinner around the campfire, surrounded by nature. Cooking foil packets or burgers can be a fun camp meal option.
USD15, 2 hours
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Day 3: Exploring More of the Canyon

Grand Canyon, AZ on May 25, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Camp

Fuel your day with a hearty breakfast at camp, perhaps oatmeal or breakfast burritos to set you up for another adventurous day.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Grand Canyon Skywalk

Experience the thrill of walking on the glass bridge at the West Rim. Marvel at stunning views while feeling high above the canyon floor.
USD30, 2 hours

10:00 AM

Hiking Rim Trail

Explore the Rim Trail for a leisurely hike, offering fantastic views along the canyon's edge. Keep an eye out for wildlife and stunning scenery.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch at Tusayan

Stop for lunch at a nearby eatery like the Big E Steakhouse, known for its hearty meals and welcoming atmosphere.
USD20, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Visit Hermit Road

Take a drive along Hermit Road, stopping at various viewpoints such as Hopi Point and Pima Point for spectacular views.
USD0, 2 hours

4:00 PM

Return to Camp

Head back to Tusayane Montane Campground to rest and relax for the evening.
USD0, 30 minutes

4:30 PM

Dinner at Camp

Enjoy dinner at camp with grilled favorites or campfire treats. This is a great time to unwind and share stories from the day.
USD15, 2 hours
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Day 4: Return Trip to San Diego

Grand Canyon to San Diego, CA on May 26, 2025

7:00 AM

Breakfast at Camp

Enjoy a final breakfast at camp, reflecting on your trip while eating a satisfying meal before the journey home.
USD10, 1 hour

8:00 AM

Pack Camp

Break down your camp and pack up for the journey back, ensuring you leave no trace behind.
USD0, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Drive back to San Diego

Begin your journey back to San Diego, which will take about 6 hours with options to stop at points of interest along the way.
USD0, 6 hours

3:00 PM

Lunch Pitstop

Stop for lunch at a diner like the Route 66 Diner for a classic American meal during your drive back.
USD15, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Arrival in San Diego

Return to San Diego refreshed and full of wonderful memories from your Grand Canyon adventure.
USD0, 0.5 hours
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Day 5: Relaxation Day

San Diego, CA on May 27, 2025

9:00 AM

Breakfast at Great Maple

Savor a well-deserved brunch at Great Maple featuring their famous Maple Bacon Doughnuts and delightful flavors— the perfect way to celebrate your return.
USD25, 1.5 hours

11:00 AM

Relax at the Beach

Spend the day unwinding at one of San Diego's stunning beaches like La Jolla or Coronado, soaking up the sun and rejuvenating.
USD0, 4 hours

3:00 PM

Dinner at Point Loma Seafood

End your trip with a meal at Point Loma Seafood, known for its fresh fish tacos and gorgeous harbor views, wrapping up your adventure perfectly.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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