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Ultimate Road Trip: From Minneapolis to National Parks and Beyond

Viewed by 739 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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Itinerary created by AI-assisted, human-reviewed

Plan Your Mpls to mt rushmore to yellowstone to idaho to seattle to univ oregon to san jose to yosemite to los angeles to san diego to tucson to austin to falls to kc to desmoines to mpls Trip

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