Scenic Family Road Trip: Bakersfield, CA to Paris, KY with Dogs Including Amusement Parks

Day 1: Grand Canyon Adventure

Grand Canyon, AZ on April 26, 2025

7:00 AM

Depart for Grand Canyon, AZ

Start your road trip early to reach the Grand Canyon National Park for a full day of exploration and breathtaking views.
Free, 7 hours

11:00 AM

Gas Stop at Love's (Mojave, CA)

Refuel and grab a quick snack at Love’s before continuing your journey.
Varies, 30 minutes

12:00 PM

Arrive at Grand Canyon National Park

Explore one of the wonders of the world, witnessing stunning vistas and potential walking trails. Have your camera ready for unforgettable views.
USD35 (per vehicle), 4 hours

4:00 PM

Lunch at Grand Canyon Village Market

Pick up a quick, healthy lunch at the market, which offers various sandwiches and snacks, perfect for a picnic with family.
USD40, 1 hour

5:00 PM

Continue Exploring Grand Canyon

Enjoy a final walk or bike ride along the stunning rim trails, soaking in the beauty before you leave the park.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30 PM

Gas Stop at TA (Flagstaff, AZ)

Refuel and rest for a bit at the TA before heading to Kingman.
Varies, 30 minutes

7:00 PM

Depart for Kingman, AZ

Travel from the Grand Canyon to Kingman for your overnight stay, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Free, 2 hours

9:00 PM

Check-in at Days Inn by Wyndham Kingman

Relax and refresh at this pet-friendly hotel to recharge for the next day's journey.
USD120, 1 hour

Day 2: Cultural Experience

Santa Fe, NM on April 27, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Café Pasqual's

This vibrant, dog-friendly café serves delicious New Mexican cuisine and is renowned for its breakfast burritos and organic ingredients.
USD30, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Depart for Santa Fe, NM

Travel along I-40, soaking in the vast landscapes and unique rock formations of New Mexico.
Free, 3 hours

12:00 PM

Gas Stop at Love's (Santa Rosa, NM)

A quick stop to refuel and grab snacks for everyone before continuing to Santa Fe.
Varies, 30 minutes

12:30 PM

Arrive in Santa Fe, NM

Visit local shops and enjoy the charming atmosphere in this beautiful city.
Free, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Lunch at The Shed

One of Santa Fe's most beloved restaurants, known for its traditional New Mexican cuisine and welcoming atmosphere for pets on the patio.
USD50, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Santa Fe Plaza

Explore the historic heart of Santa Fe, filled with local art galleries, shops, and cultural landmarks. A great spot for family photos!
Free, 1.5 hours

5:00 PM

Check-in at La Quinta Inn & Suites

This pet-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodations and is conveniently located near attractions.
USD150, 1 hour

6:30 PM

Dinner at Rooftop Pizzeria

Enjoy delicious pizza with stunning views of the Santa Fe skyline. The rooftop dining is pet-friendly and perfect for families.
USD60, 1.5 hours

Day 3: Amusement and Exploration

Amarillo, TX on April 28, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at Blue Sky

Famous for its gourmet burgers, Blue Sky also serves a fantastic breakfast menu with local flavors. A must-try for a hearty start.
USD25, 1 hour

9:30 AM

Depart for Amarillo, TX

Take the scenic route I-40 where you can appreciate the beautiful Texas landscapes along the way.
Free, 4 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch en-route at the Big Texan Steak Ranch

Famous for its 72 oz steak challenge, this iconic eatery is a great stop to experience Texas hospitality.
USD70, 1.5 hours

3:00 PM

Visit Six Flags Hurricane Harbor

Enjoy an afternoon of fun at this water park with exciting slides and splash areas perfect for the family and pets (check for pet policies).
USD40 (per person), 3 hours

6:00 PM

Check-in at Comfort Inn & Suites

This hotel is dog-friendly and provides easy access to local attractions and parks.
USD110, 1 hour

7:30 PM

Dinner at Coyote Bluff Cafe

A true Amarillo staple, known for its burgers and eclectic decor, offering a cozy bit of local flavor.
USD50, 1.5 hours

Day 4: Lovely Scenery

Little Rock, AR on April 29, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at The Root Cafe

This farm-to-table cafe prioritizes local ingredients with mouth-watering breakfast options, perfect to kick off the day.
USD30, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Depart for Little Rock, AR

Take I-40 East and enjoy the views of the beautiful Arkansas landscape.
Free, 4 hours

12:00 PM

Gas Stop at Pilot (Little Rock, AR)

Refuel and restock snacks for the last leg of the drive.
Varies, 30 minutes

12:30 PM

Lunch at Lost 40 Brewing

Casual eatery with a great selection of local beers and hearty sandwiches. Pet-friendly environment makes it a family favorite.
USD50, 1.5 hours

2:30 PM

Visit Pinnacle Mountain State Park

Offering a range of trails with stunning views of the Arkansas River and surrounding mountains, suitable for biking and pet walks.
Free, 2 hours

5:30 PM

Check-in at La Quinta Inn & Suites

Comfortable and convenient, this venue allows pets and is great for families with access to local attractions.
USD130, 1 hour

7:00 PM

Dinner at Whole Hog Cafe

Renowned for its barbecue, this casual dining option is ideal for families looking to indulge in local Southern cuisine.
USD60, 1.5 hours

Day 5: Final Destination

Paris, KY on April 30, 2025

8:00 AM

Breakfast at 1840 Bakery & Cafe

Enjoy locally sourced ingredients in a quaint cafe before heading to your final destination with fresh pastries and coffee.
USD25, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Depart for Paris, KY

Drive the final stretch through the lush landscapes of Kentucky, beautiful and peaceful for both you and your dogs.
Free, 4.5 hours

12:00 PM

Gas Stop at Loves (Bowling Green, KY)

Refuel and take a break before the last leg to Paris.
Varies, 30 minutes

12:30 PM

Lunch at The Coffee Tree

A delightful stop for casual dining, known for its sandwiches and salads, with a welcoming environment for pets.
USD40, 1 hour

1:30 PM

Arrive in Paris, KY

Welcome to Paris! Explore local parks and charming streets with your dogs, enjoying the beauty of this quaint town.
Free, Ongoing

5:30 PM

Dinner at The South Somedays

Experience farm-to-table dining in an upscale yet cozy setting. Perfect for a memorable night with the family.
USD70, 2 hours