7-Day Budget Solo Adventure Across the USA Starting August 16, 2025 from California

Day 1: Arrival and City Exploration

Los Angeles, California, USA on August 16, 2025

9:00 AM

Check into budget hotel

Stay at the Freehand Los Angeles hostel, an affordable and well-reviewed spot offering shared dorms and private rooms in downtown LA.
USD60, 1 hour

10:30 AM

Explore Downtown LA

Walk around the historic core including the Broad Museum (free admission) and the Walt Disney Concert Hall (architecture viewing outside).
USD0, 3 hours

1:30 PM

Lunch at Howlin’ Ray’s

Enjoy Nashville-style hot chicken for a budget-friendly and flavorful lunch in Chinatown LA.
USD12, 1 hour

3:00 PM

Visit Venice Beach

Relax and people-watch along the iconic Venice Beach boardwalk and canals.
USD0, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Guisados

Savor authentic Mexican tacos at affordable prices in East LA.
USD10, 1 hour
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Day 2: Grand Canyon Adventure

Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona, USA on August 17, 2025

7:00 AM

Fly to Grand Canyon

Take a budget morning flight from LAX to Phoenix, then a shuttle to the Grand Canyon South Rim.
USD120, 5 hours

12:00 PM

Check into budget lodge

Stay at the Yavapai Lodge, the most affordable lodge inside the park with basic amenities.
USD90, 1 hour

1:00 PM

Lunch at Canyon Village Market

Grab affordable grab-and-go meals or sandwiches to keep fuelled for exploring.
USD15, 0.5 hour

1:30 PM

Hike South Rim Trails

Explore scenic hiking routes such as the Rim Trail or part of Bright Angel Trail with spectacular views.
USD0, 4 hours

6:00 PM

Dinner at Bright Angel Lodge

Enjoy simple but filling meals at this rustic lodge restaurant with canyon views.
USD20, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Aurora Viewing

Anchorage, Alaska, USA on August 18, 2025

7:00 AM

Fly to Anchorage

Catch an early budget flight from Phoenix to Anchorage, Alaska, preparing for aurora viewing.
USD200, 6 hours

1:30 PM

Check into budget hotel

Stay at the Alaska Backpackers Inn, a budget-friendly hostel offering dorm beds and private rooms.
USD50, 1 hour

2:30 PM

Lunch at Snow City Cafe

Affordable and hearty breakfast-style meals available all day for a cozy local experience.
USD15, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore downtown Anchorage

Visit local shops, the Tony Knowles Coastal Trail, or museums around town.
USD0, 3 hours

8:00 PM

Aurora viewing

Join a low-cost local aurora tour or find nearby spots outside city lights for a solo aurora experience.
USD40, 3 hours
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Day 4: Las Vegas Budget Fun

Las Vegas, Nevada, USA on August 19, 2025

9:00 AM

Fly to Las Vegas

Take a budget flight from Anchorage to Las Vegas with early booking for the best rates.
USD150, 6 hours

3:00 PM

Check into budget hotel

Stay at The LINQ Hotel + Experience, offering affordable rates on the Strip with basic amenities.
USD70, 1 hour

4:00 PM

Explore Strip attractions

See the Bellagio Fountains and walk the Venetian canals without spending on casino games.
USD0, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Earl of Sandwich

Enjoy budget-friendly and tasty sandwiches in the heart of the Strip.
USD12, 1 hour
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Day 5: Relax Cocoa Beach

Cocoa Beach, Florida, USA on August 20, 2025

7:00 AM

Fly to Orlando, then transfer to Cocoa Beach

Fly from Las Vegas to Orlando on a budget airline, then a shuttle to Cocoa Beach.
USD150, 6 hours

1:00 PM

Check into budget hotel

Stay at the Sea Coast Gardens Hotel, where budget travelers can enjoy simple beachfront accommodations.
USD70, 1 hour

2:00 PM

Lunch at Jazzy’s Mainely Lobster & Seafood

Affordable meals focused on fresh seafood with a relaxed local vibe.
USD20, 1 hour

3:30 PM

Beach time

Relax on the sand or stroll the Cocoa Beach Pier soaking in the sun and sea breeze.
USD0, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Dinner at Florida’s Fresh Grill

Casual dining with fresh seafood and affordable prices close to the beach.
USD25, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Universal Studios Day

Orlando, Florida, USA on August 21, 2025

8:00 AM

Travel to Universal Studios

Take a shuttle or rideshare from Cocoa Beach to Universal Studios Florida for a fun day out.
USD30, 1 hour

9:00 AM

Universal Studios park entrance

Purchase a one-day ticket online in advance for budget savings and enjoy thrilling rides and shows.
USD110, 8 hours

1:00 PM

Lunch inside park

Choose affordable quick-service stands like Mel’s Drive-In or Louie's Italian Restaurant for filling meals.
USD15, 1 hour

6:00 PM

Return to hotel

Travel back to your budget hotel in Orlando or near airport to prepare for trip home.
USD30, 1 hour
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Day 7: Return to California

Los Angeles, California, USA on August 22, 2025

9:00 AM

Fly back to Los Angeles

Catch an affordable morning flight from Orlando back to LAX to conclude your solo budget trip.
USD150, 5 hours

3:00 PM

Optional local sightseeing or rest

Depending on your energy, explore some free local spots like Griffith Park or relax at your accommodation.
USD0, 3 hours

7:00 PM

Farewell dinner at In-N-Out Burger

Enjoy a classic California fast-food experience, delicious and budget-friendly for a solo traveler.
USD10, 1 hour
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