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Ultimate Road Trip: From Minneapolis to National Parks and Beyond

Viewed by 921 travelers

Day 1: Start the Journey

Minneapolis, MN on March 30, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Al's Breakfast

A vibrant little diner known for its delicious pancakes and omelets, perfect for fueling your road trip.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Depart for Mount Rushmore

Embark on your journey, taking I-90 W. Approximate driving time is 6 hours.
USD0, 6 hours
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Day 2: Explore Iconic Monument

Mount Rushmore, SD on March 31, 2025

3:00PM

Visit Mount Rushmore National Memorial

Experience the grandeur of the 60-foot faces of four U.S. presidents carved into the Black Hills.
USD10, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at Carver's Café

Enjoy a meal with an impressive view of the memorial; their buffalo burger is a must-try!
USD25, 1 hour

6:30PM

Drive to Yellowstone National Park

Hit the road for another scenic drive to Yellowstone, around 5 hours away.
USD0, 5 hours
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Day 3: Adventure in Nature

Yellowstone National Park, WY on April 1, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Eagle's Nest

Start your day with a hearty breakfast; their eggs benedict is highly recommended.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Old Faithful Geyser

Witness the erupting geyser and learn more about geothermal features in the park.
USD0, 2 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Old Faithful Lodge

Enjoy a scenic meal at the lodge with a view of the geyser, offering various local dishes.
USD25, 1 hour

1:30PM

Wildlife Watching Tour

Join a guided tour to spot bison, elk, and bears in their natural habitat.
USD50, 3 hours

5:00PM

Return to Lodging

Relax and reflect on your day in the park.
USD0, 2 hours
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Day 4: Pine River Retreat

Idaho Falls, ID on April 2, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Pine Tree Cafe

Located by the river, this cafe serves fresh bagels and coffee that will energize you for the day.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Idaho Falls

Enjoy the scenic drive to Idaho Falls, approximately 2 hours away.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Idaho Falls River Walk

Stroll along the beautiful pathway featuring waterfalls, gardens, and lovely views.
USD0, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at The SnakeBite Bistro

Try their gourmet burgers and a wide selection of craft beers in a relaxed atmosphere.
USD25, 1.5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Idaho Falls Zoo

Explore the small yet charming zoo with its diverse animal exhibits.
USD12, 2 hours

5:30PM

Head to Yellowstone

Prepare for the next part of your adventure.
USD0, 2 hours
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Day 5: Pacific Northwest Fun

Seattle, WA on April 3, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Biscuit Bitch

Indulge in their famous biscuits served with a twist—a unique Seattle experience.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Pike Place Market

One of Seattle's iconic spots, experience fresh seafood, local crafts, and the buzzing atmosphere.
USD0, 2.5 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Pike Place Market

Grab lunch from one of the many food stalls; try the clam chowder for a local favorite.
USD15, 1 hour

1:30PM

Visit the Space Needle

Take in stunning views of Seattle from above; don't forget to take some pictures!
USD35, 2 hours

4:00PM

Chihuly Garden and Glass

Marvel at the stunning glass sculptures inspired by nature; it’s a must-see in Seattle.
USD30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Canlis

Experience fine dining with an incredible view; the tasting menu showcases Pacific Northwest flavors.
USD150, 2 hours
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Day 6: Gateway to Oregon

Eugene, OR on April 4, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Node

Locally sourced ingredients make for healthy and tasty options; try their veggie omelette.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Eugene

Enjoy a picturesque drive down to Eugene, around 2 hours.
USD0, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore the University of Oregon

Walk through the beautiful campus and check out the iconic Hayward Field.
USD0, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Marche

Savor fresh, seasonal dishes with an emphasis on local sourcing; their duck confit is fantastic.
USD30, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Visit Skinner Butte Park

Nationally recognized park with scenic views; a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon.
USD0, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at The Vintage

Enjoy your dinner at this cozy restaurant fed by local farms; try their seasonal pasta special.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Silicon Valley

San Jose, CA on April 5, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Breakfast Club

A classic diner famous for their big portions and flavorful scrambles; perfect before a long drive.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to San Jose

Travel down to San Jose which will take about 5 hours.
USD0, 5 hours

3:00PM

Visit The Tech Interactive

Explore the science and technology exhibits; it’s a hands-on experience for all ages.
USD25, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at La Mediterranee

Savor Mediterranean-inspired dishes in a cozy atmosphere; their hummus platter is great for sharing.
USD30, 1.5 hours
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Day 8: Nature and Adventure

Yosemite National Park, CA on April 6, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Village Grill

Starting your Yosemite adventures with breakfast that includes omelets and pastries.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Explore Yosemite Valley

Witness stunning landscapes such as El Capitan and Half Dome while hiking or driving through.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Degnan's Kitchen

Grab a quick lunch with fresh salads and soups before heading out for more adventures.
USD15, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Glacier Point

Spectacular views of Yosemite Valley await; this is a highlight you shouldn't miss.
USD0, 2 hours

5:00PM

Dinner at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Dine with a view of the park’s stunning scenery; the elk chop is a celebrated dish here.
USD45, 2 hours
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Day 9: City of Angels

Los Angeles, CA on April 7, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Griddle Cafe

Start your day with oversized pancakes; the red velvet pancakes are a crowd favorite.
USD20, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Hollywood Walk of Fame

Stroll along the famous boulevard and take pictures with your favorite stars’ stars.
USD0, 1.5 hours

11:00AM

Lunch at In-N-Out Burger

Experience the California classic burger joint; don’t forget to try their Animal Style fries!
USD15, 1 hour

12:30PM

Tour of the Hollywood Sign

Join a guided tour to see the iconic Hollywood Sign up close and learn about its history.
USD30, 2 hours

3:00PM

Visit Griffith Park

Relax in one of LA’s largest parks with trails and views; perfect for unwinding.
USD0, 2 hours

5:30PM

Dinner at Bestia

For some of the best Italian in LA; the housemade pasta is a must-try.
USD50, 2 hours
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Day 10: Sunny SoCal

San Diego, CA on April 8, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cottage

A charming breakfast spot serving everything from pancakes to Mexican chilaquiles; a local favorite.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Balboa Park

Discover a cultural oasis with gardens, museums, and theaters; a lovely way to spend the morning.
USD0, 3 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at The Crack Shack

Savor their fried chicken and egg dishes in a fun outdoor setting; it's a must-try!
USD20, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore San Diego Zoo

One of the world-renowned zoos, home to thousands of animals and exhibits; a highlight of your trip.
USD60, 4 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Born & Rais’d

End your day at this trendy spot that specializes in gourmet street food; try their tacos!
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 11: Desert Adventure

Tucson, AZ on April 9, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Cup Café

A cozy spot with a great menu highlighting local ingredients; their huevos rancheros is a crowd pleaser.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Tucson

Make your way to Tucson, approx 6 hours of drive time.
USD0, 6 hours

4:00PM

Visit Saguaro National Park

Explore the unique desert landscape filled with iconic saguaro cacti; a true American treasure.
USD10, 2 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at El Charro Café

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at this historic restaurant; their carne seca is a must-try.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 12: Texas Hospitality

Austin, TX on April 10, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Juan in a Million

Famous for their breakfast tacos; get ready for a delicioso feast before exploring Austin.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Austin

Travel about 4.5 hours to vibrant Austin.
USD0, 4.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit the Texas State Capitol

Tour the stunning capitol building and learn about Texas history; the architecture is impressive.
USD0, 1.5 hours

3:30PM

Lunch at Franklin Barbecue

Indulge in some of the best brisket in the country, but be prepared to wait in line—it’s worth it!
USD25, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Uchi

A celebrated sushi restaurant featuring innovative Japanese dishes; the omakase is a must-try.
USD75, 2 hours
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Day 13: Majestic Falls

Niagara Falls, NY on April 11, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Diner

A retro diner offering classic breakfast options; their pancakes are popular with locals.
USD12, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Niagara Falls

Prepare for a longer drive to Niagara Falls; expect about 20 hours total travel time split into two days.
USD0, 20 hours
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Day 14: Journey Home

Kansas City, MO on April 12, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Corner Restaurant

Start your day with homestyle breakfast fare that includes fluffy biscuits and gravy.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Kansas City

Hit the road for a drive that will take around 8 hours.
USD0, 8 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Joe's Kansas City Bar-B-Que

Indulge in some of the best BBQ in the country; the Z-Man sandwich is legendary.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 15: Final Stretch

Des Moines, IA on April 13, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at Brasas Peruanas

A cozy restaurant featuring authentic Peruvian breakfast options; try their tamales.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive to Des Moines

A short drive of about 3 hours.
USD0, 3 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Fong's Pizza

Known for their creative takes on pizza, the crab rangoon pizza is a local favorite.
USD20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit the Iowa State Capitol

Take a tour of this stunning capitol building with a gold dome; it's a great way to wrap up your trip.
USD0, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Final Dinner at The Cheesecake Factory

Cap off your trip with a wide variety of cheesecakes and dishes; their avocado eggrolls are a hit!
USD30, 2 hours
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Day 16: Home Sweet Home

Minneapolis, MN on April 14, 2025

8:00AM

Breakfast at The Eatery

A classic breakfast diner serving everything from egg dishes to pancakes, ideal for a cozy send-off.
USD15, 1 hour

9:30AM

Drive back to Minneapolis

The final leg home, enjoy the familiar routes and reminisce about the journey.
USD0, 2 hours
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