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

Day 1: Journey to Tucson

Tucson, AZ on April 26, 2025

4:00 AM

Depart for Tucson, AZ

Start your road trip early to maximize your day and enjoy beautiful desert scenery along the way.
Free, 6 hours

10:00 AM

Gas Stop at Love's (Tehachapi, CA)

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

10:30 AM

Lunch stop in Blythe, CA

Enjoy a meal at a local diner like Denny's or Carl's Jr. Grab a quick bite that offers something for everyone.
USD40, 1 hour

11:30 AM

Continue Drive to Tucson

Follow I-10 East, admiring the diverse landscape as you travel towards Arizona.
Free, 3 hours

2:30 PM

Arrive in Tucson, AZ

Explore Tucson's beautiful desert landscapes, vibrant downtown, and unique culture. Find a park where your dogs can enjoy some time outdoors.
Free, 2 hours

4:30 PM

Check-in at La Quinta Inn & Suites

This pet-friendly hotel offers comfortable accommodations, perfect for relaxing after a long day of travel.
USD120, 1 hour

5:30 PM

Dinner at El Charro Cafe

Experience authentic Mexican cuisine at this historic restaurant, known for its delicious enchiladas and dog-friendly patio.
USD60, 1.5 hours
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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-10 and I-25, absorbing the picturesque landscapes of New Mexico.
Free, 4.5 hours

1:30 PM

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

A quick stop to refuel and grab snacks for everyone.
Varies, 30 minutes

2:00 PM

Arrive in Santa Fe, NM

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

3:00 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

4:30 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

6:00 PM

Check-in at La Quinta Inn & Suites

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

7:30 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
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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 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
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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
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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
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