Plantrip
Sign In
Home
Tools
Create Itinerary
Step-by-Step Builder
Packing List
Travel Expert
Trip Cost Estimator
Weather Expert
Deals
Guides
Pricing
About
About Plantrip
News
Partner Dispatches
Help
Travel Glossary
Sign In
Home
20-Day December USA Adventure: San Francisco, New York, Washington D.C., and Florida
Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Get new itinerary
Initializing...
0%
Cancel
Step 1 Outline Preview:
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email
20-Day December USA Adventure: San Francisco, New York, Washington D.C., and Florida
Viewed by 96 travelers
Save This Itinerary
Share
Day 1: Explore San Francisco
San Francisco, USA on December 1, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Mama's on Washington Square
Enjoy a classic San Francisco breakfast with freshly made omelets and French toast at this beloved brunch spot open from 8:00am to 3:00pm.
USD25, 1h
9:30am
Visit Golden Gate Bridge
Walk or bike across this iconic suspension bridge for stunning views of the bay and city skyline. Open 24/7; best in the morning to avoid fog.
Free, 1h
11:00am
Explore Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39
Discover lively waterfront shops, see sea lions at Pier 39, and enjoy street performances. Shops and attractions typically open by 10:00am.
Free, 2h
1:00pm
Lunch at Boudin Bakery Cafe
Taste San Francisco’s famous sourdough bread with clam chowder in a bread bowl at this historic bakery located in Fisherman’s Wharf.
USD20, 1h
2:30pm
Ride a Cable Car to Union Square
Take a historic cable car ride to the heart of the city for shopping and sightseeing. Cable car lines run 6:00am to midnight approx.
USD8, 30m
3:00pm
Visit San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA)
Explore contemporary and modern art pieces in one of the largest museums of its kind. Open until 5:00pm on weekdays.
USD25, 2h
6:00pm
Dinner at The Slanted Door
Enjoy modern Vietnamese cuisine with scenic views of the Bay Bridge in the Ferry Building. Open for dinner from 5:30pm.
USD60, 1.5h
Find Hotels in San Francisco
Day 2: San Francisco Highlights
San Francisco, USA on December 2, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Tartine Bakery
Savor freshly baked pastries and coffee at this renowned bakery. Opens at 7:00am.
USD15, 1h
9:30am
Tour Alcatraz Island
Take a ferry from Pier 33 and explore the historic former prison with audio tours. First ferry typically at 9:00am; book tickets in advance.
USD40, 3h
1:00pm
Lunch at Fog Harbor Fish House
Enjoy fresh seafood with views over the bay at this pier restaurant. Open for lunch at 11:00am.
USD35, 1h
2:30pm
Walk through Chinatown
Explore the vibrant Chinatown area filled with shops, markets, and cultural landmarks. Open daily.
Free, 1.5h
4:00pm
Visit Coit Tower
Ascend this historic tower for panoramic views of the city and murals inside. Open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
USD10, 1h
6:00pm
Dinner at House of Prime Rib
Relish perfectly cooked prime rib in a classic San Francisco setting. Open for dinner from 5:00pm.
USD70, 1.5h
Find Hotels in San Francisco
Day 3: Travel to New York
New York, USA on December 3, 2025
7:00am
Breakfast at hotel or nearby cafe
Have a quick, light breakfast before heading to the airport.
USD15, 1h
9:00am
Flight from San Francisco to New York City
Take a direct flight to NYC; about 6 hours flight time. Arrive in the afternoon.
USD300, 6h
4:00pm
Check-in and relax at accommodation
Settle into your NYC hotel or rental to prepare for the upcoming days of sightseeing.
Varies, 1h
5:30pm
Visit Times Square
Experience the buzzing lights, street performers, and energy of Times Square. Best after dark; open 24/7.
Free, 1h
7:00pm
Dinner at Carmine’s Italian Restaurant
Savor family-style Italian dishes near Times Square. Open until 11:00pm.
USD50, 1.5h
Find Hotels in New York
Day 4: Iconic NYC Sights
New York City, USA on December 4, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel
Try classic New York bagels with various spreads. Opens at 7:00am.
USD10, 1h
9:00am
Visit Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Take the ferry from Battery Park and tour these emblematic sites. Ferries run from 9:00am; buy tickets in advance.
USD25, 4h
1:30pm
Lunch at Fraunces Tavern
Enjoy pub fare in one of NYC’s oldest buildings near Battery Park, open 11:30am to 10:00pm.
USD30, 1h
3:00pm
Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
Stroll from Manhattan to Brooklyn for spectacular skyline views. Open 24/7.
Free, 1h
4:30pm
Explore DUMBO and Brooklyn Bridge Park
Discover art shops, cafes, and waterfront views in this trendy area of Brooklyn.
Free, 1.5h
6:30pm
Dinner at Juliana’s Pizza
Feast on award-winning New York style pizza in Brooklyn. Open until 10:00pm.
USD25, 1.5h
Find Hotels in New York City
Day 5: Museum & Central Park
New York City, USA on December 5, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Sarabeth’s Central Park South
Delight in American breakfast classics near Central Park; opens 8:00am.
USD30, 1h
9:30am
Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Explore one of the world’s largest art museums with vast collections. Open 10:00am to 5:30pm.
USD30, 3h
1:00pm
Lunch at The Met Dining Room
Enjoy elegant dining inside the museum with views of Central Park. Open during museum hours.
USD40, 1h
2:30pm
Walk and relax in Central Park
Visit landmarks such as Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge, perfect for a leisurely stroll or carriage ride.
Free, 2h
5:00pm
Visit Rockefeller Center & Top of the Rock
See festive holiday decorations and enjoy city views from the observation deck. Open until 11:00pm.
USD40, 1.5h
7:00pm
Dinner at Del Frisco’s Double Eagle Steakhouse
Savor prime steaks close to Rockefeller Center. Open for dinner until 10:00pm.
USD70, 1.5h
Find Hotels in New York City
Day 6: Broadway & Midtown
New York City, USA on December 6, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Bubby’s Tribeca
Known for hearty breakfast and classic American dishes. Opens at 8:00am.
USD25, 1h
9:30am
Visit The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
See famous artworks by Van Gogh, Warhol, and others. Open 10:30am to 5:30pm.
USD25, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at The Modern
Fine dining restaurant inside MoMA serving contemporary cuisine. Reservations recommended.
USD60, 1.5h
2:00pm
Explore Bryant Park and New York Public Library
Relax in Bryant Park and tour the iconic library nearby. Park open day and night; Library open 10:00am to 6:00pm.
Free, 1.5h
4:00pm
Shopping on Fifth Avenue
Browse luxury stores and holiday window displays along the famous shopping street.
Varies, 2h
7:00pm
Broadway Show
Attend a classic or new Broadway musical or play. Most shows start around 7:00 or 8:00pm; book tickets early.
USD100, 3h
Find Hotels in New York City
Day 7: Harlem & Upper West Side
New York City, USA on December 7, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Sylvia’s Restaurant, Harlem
Famous for soul food and hearty breakfasts; open from 8:00am.
USD20, 1h
9:30am
Explore Harlem Cultural Sites
Visit the Apollo Theater, Studio Museum, and stroll through historic streets.
Free to USD15, 2.5h
12:00pm
Lunch at Red Rooster Harlem
Celebrate Harlem’s vibrant food and music culture with comfort food. Open 11:30am to 10:00pm.
USD35, 1h
1:30pm
American Museum of Natural History
Discover extensive exhibits on science, nature, and space. Open 10:00am to 5:30pm.
USD23, 3h
5:00pm
Walk through Riverside Park
Enjoy scenic views along the Hudson River with peaceful walking paths. Open daily.
Free, 1h
7:00pm
Dinner at Jacob’s Pickles
Comfort food and craft beer on the Upper West Side. Open till 11:00pm.
USD30, 1.5h
Find Hotels in New York City
Day 8: Lower Manhattan & Museums
New York City, USA on December 8, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Blue Bottle Coffee and bakery
Start your day with quality coffee and pastries. Opens 7:00am.
USD15, 1h
9:00am
Visit 9/11 Memorial & Museum
Reflect at the twin reflecting pools and explore the museum’s exhibits. Opens at 9:00am.
USD28, 2h
11:30am
Walk through Wall Street and Financial District
See the New York Stock Exchange and Charging Bull sculpture.
Free, 1h
12:30pm
Lunch at Eataly Downtown
Italian marketplace with various eateries and food counters. Open from 11:00am.
USD30, 1h
2:00pm
Visit The Whitney Museum of American Art
Explore modern American art, open 10:30am to 6:00pm; closed Tuesdays.
USD25, 2h
4:30pm
Walk the High Line Park
Enjoy this elevated linear park with gardens, art, and views. Open April to December 7:00am to 8:00pm.
Free, 1.5h
7:00pm
Dinner at Chelsea Market
Indulge in diverse food stalls within a historic market building. Open until 9:00pm.
USD25, 1.5h
Find Hotels in New York City
Day 9: Explore Queens
Queens, New York, USA on December 9, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Queens Comfort
Eclectic comfort food with a fun vibe, opens at 8:00am.
USD20, 1h
9:30am
Visit MoMA PS1
Contemporary art space in Long Island City. Open 12:00pm to 6:00pm on weekends; check weekdays schedule.
USD10, 2h
11:30am
Walk Gantry Plaza State Park
Relax with views of Manhattan skyline along the East River. Open daily.
Free, 1h
12:30pm
Lunch at The Arepa Lady
Famous Colombian street food near Jackson Heights, open 11:00am to 9:00pm.
USD15, 1h
2:00pm
Explore Flushing Meadows Corona Park
Visit Unisphere and Queens Museum. Museum open 10:00am to 5:00pm; park open daily.
USD8 for museum, 3h
6:00pm
Dinner at White Bear
Known for delicious hand-pulled noodles and Chinese dishes in Flushing. Open until 9:30pm.
USD25, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Queens
Day 10: Day Trip: Hudson Valley
Hudson Valley, New York, USA on December 10, 2025
7:00am
Early Breakfast and Departure
Grab a breakfast to-go and take a train or drive to Hudson Valley, approximately 1.5 hours north of NYC.
USD15 for breakfast, USD25 transport, 2h
9:00am
Visit Walkway Over the Hudson State Historic Park
Walk the world’s longest elevated pedestrian bridge with breathtaking river views, open 6:00am to 10:00pm.
Free, 1h
10:30am
Tour Dia:Beacon
Modern art museum in a spacious former factory. Open 11:00am to 5:00pm; closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays.
USD25, 2h
1:00pm
Lunch at The Roundhouse
Enjoy farm-to-table dining near a waterfall in Beacon. Open 12:00pm to 9:00pm.
USD40, 1.5h
3:00pm
Explore Beacon’s Main Street
Browse local shops, galleries, and cafes in this charming town.
Free, 2h
5:30pm
Return to NYC
Head back to the city for evening relaxation or light dinner.
USD25 transport, 2h
Find Hotels in Hudson Valley
Day 11: Relax and Final NYC
New York City, USA on December 11, 2025
9:00am
Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien
Organic bakery and cafe with healthy options. Opens at 7:00am.
USD15, 1h
10:30am
Visit The Frick Collection
An intimate art museum in a historic mansion featuring European paintings and sculpture. Open 10:00am to 6:00pm; closed Tuesdays.
USD22, 2h
12:30pm
Lunch at Café Sabarsky
Viennese-inspired café offering pastries and European cuisine, inside Neue Galerie. Open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
USD25, 1h
2:00pm
Explore Upper East Side
Walk around elegant neighborhoods with boutique shops and parks like Carl Schurz Park.
Free, 2h
5:00pm
Early Dinner at The Smith
Contemporary American bistro popular for its lively atmosphere. Open until 10:00pm.
USD40, 1.5h
Find Hotels in New York City
Day 12: Travel to Washington D.C.
Washington D.C., USA on December 12, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast near hotel
Quick breakfast before check-out.
USD15, 1h
9:30am
Train from NYC to Washington D.C.
Take Amtrak Northeast Regional or Acela service, ~3.5 hours journey.
USD100, 3.5h
1:30pm
Check-in and lunch
Check into hotel and enjoy lunch at Founding Farmers near the hotel, open until 9:00pm.
USD35, 1h
3:00pm
Visit National Mall Monuments
See the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and WWII Memorial. Open areas, accessible 24/7.
Free, 3h
6:30pm
Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill
Historic restaurant serving American classics near the White House. Open until 11:00pm.
USD50, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Washington D.C.
Day 13: D.C. Museums
Washington D.C., USA on December 13, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Busboys and Poets
Creative community cafe with a diverse menu, open from 8:00am.
USD20, 1h
9:30am
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Explore exhibits on aviation and space exploration. Open 10:00am to 5:30pm.
Free, 3h
1:00pm
Lunch at Mitsitam Cafe at National Museum of the American Indian
Offers indigenous cuisine of the Americas. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
USD20, 1h
2:30pm
Visit National Gallery of Art
Enjoy impressive collections of classic and modern art. Open 10:00am to 5:00pm.
Free, 3h
6:00pm
Dinner at Zaytinya
Mediterranean cuisine with a lively atmosphere. Open until 10:30pm.
USD50, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Washington D.C.
Day 14: Capitol and Georgetown
Washington D.C., USA on December 14, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien
Organic bakery cafe near the Capitol. Opens 7:00am.
USD15, 1h
9:00am
Tour U.S. Capitol Building
Book a guided tour to learn about the nation’s legislative heart. Tours start at 9:00am.
Free, 2h
11:30am
Visit Library of Congress
Explore the stunning architecture and exhibits. Open 8:30am to 4:30pm.
Free, 1h
12:30pm
Lunch at Farmers & Hunters Tavern
Casual American fare near Capitol Hill, open 11:30am to 9:00pm.
USD30, 1h
2:00pm
Explore Georgetown
Walk historic streets, visit shops and waterfront. Best afternoon activity, open all day.
Free, 3h
6:30pm
Dinner at Filomena Ristorante
Classic Italian restaurant in Georgetown. Open until 10:00pm.
USD50, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Washington D.C.
Day 15: Travel to Florida
Miami, Florida, USA on December 15, 2025
7:00am
Breakfast and check-out
Light breakfast before heading to airport.
USD15, 1h
9:30am
Flight from Washington D.C. to Miami
Approximately 3-hour flight; arrive midday.
USD150, 3h
1:00pm
Check-in hotel and lunch at Yardbird Southern Table & Bar
Enjoy southern comfort food in Miami Beach. Open noon to 11pm.
USD40, 1.5h
3:00pm
Relax at South Beach
Spend afternoon at the famous sandy beach and stroll Ocean Drive.
Free, 3h
6:30pm
Dinner at Joe’s Stone Crab
Iconic spot for fresh seafood and stone crab claws. Open 5:00pm to 10:00pm.
USD70, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Miami
Day 16: Miami Sightseeing
Miami, Florida, USA on December 16, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast at The Front Porch Cafe
Casual spot on Ocean Drive, opens at 8:00am.
USD20, 1h
9:30am
Visit Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
Explore stunning historic estate and gardens. Open daily 9:30am to 4:30pm.
USD25, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at La Mar by Gastón Acurio
Peruvian seafood cuisine with waterfront views. Open from noon.
USD50, 1.5h
2:00pm
Explore Wynwood Walls
Outdoor museum showcasing colorful street art and murals. Open 10:30am to 7:00pm.
Free, 2h
5:00pm
Visit Little Havana
Experience Cuban culture with colorful streets, music, and food.
Free, 1.5h
7:00pm
Dinner at Ball & Chain
Live music venue with Cuban-inspired dishes in Little Havana. Open until midnight.
USD30, 2h
Find Hotels in Miami
Day 17: Day Trip to Everglades
Everglades National Park, Florida, USA on December 17, 2025
7:00am
Early Breakfast
Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast.
USD15, 1h
8:00am
Drive or tour to Everglades National Park
Approximately 1 hour from Miami, explore with airboat tours and wildlife viewing.
USD30 entry plus USD50 airboat tour, 6h
2:00pm
Lunch at Coopertown Restaurant
Classic spot on the way back, known for fried gator bites. Open 11:30am to 6:00pm.
USD25, 1h
4:00pm
Return to Miami
Relax after adventurous day.
Free, 1h
6:00pm
Dinner at Cvi.che 105
Highly rated Peruvian restaurant, open until 10:00pm.
USD40, 1.5h
Find Hotels in Everglades National Park
Day 18: Relax & Departure Prep
Miami, Florida, USA on December 18, 2025
9:00am
Breakfast at Big Pink
Large portions of American comfort food, open 8:00am to 11:00pm.
USD20, 1h
10:30am
Relax at Hotel or visit Miami Design District
Explore high-end shopping and art galleries in Miami Design District.
Free, 3h
2:00pm
Lunch at Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink
Farm-to-table dining in the Design District. Open noon to 10:00pm.
USD40, 1.5h
4:00pm
Spa or beach time
Unwind with a spa treatment or relax on the beach.
Varies, 3h
7:30pm
Dinner at Zuma
Upscale Japanese cuisine on the waterfront. Open until 11:00pm.
USD80, 2h
Find Hotels in Miami
Day 19: Key West Day Trip
Key West, Florida, USA on December 19, 2025
6:00am
Early Departure
Start early for a full-day trip to Key West, about 3.5-4 hours drive or take a scenic train.
USD50 transport, 4h
10:00am
Explore Duval Street
Visit shops, cafes, and historic sites on Key West’s vibrant main street.
Free, 2h
12:00pm
Lunch at Blue Heaven
Popular Caribbean-inspired restaurant with outdoor seating. Open until 3:00pm.
USD35, 1h
1:30pm
Visit Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum
See the famous author’s residence and cats; open 9:00am to 5:00pm.
USD17, 1.5h
3:30pm
Relax at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park
Beach and historic fort with swimming and snorkeling. Open 8:00am to sunset.
USD6, 2h
5:30pm
Begin return to Miami
Head back after an active day.
USD50 transport, 4h
Find Hotels in Key West
Day 20: Departure Day
Miami, Florida, USA on December 20, 2025
8:00am
Breakfast and packing
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast and prepare for departure.
USD20, 1h
10:00am
Last-minute shopping or beach walk
Spend final hours soaking up the Miami vibe or shopping for souvenirs.
Free, 2h
12:30pm
Lunch at The Local House
Chic seafood restaurant near the beach. Open noon to 10:00pm.
USD35, 1h
2:00pm
Head to Miami International Airport
Allow enough time for check-in and security before your flight home.
Varies, 2h
Find Hotels in Miami
0
Travel Requirements
Local Sayings
Connectivity Info
Nearby Shopping
Accepted Currency + Payment Types
Safety
Cultural Norms + Etiquette
Health + Medical Facilities
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email
Itinerary created by
Plantrip Team
April 18, 2025
AI-assisted, human-reviewed
Plan Your 20-Day December USA Adventure: Trip
Cost Estimator
Estimate your trip budget
Packing List
Get a custom checklist
Weather Expert
Check weather & best time to go
Unlock Unlimited Trips
$2.50
/mo
Billed $30/year
Unlimited trip generations
Personalized packing lists
Extra details & local tips
Private & ad-free
Sign In to Upgrade
See all plans
Upgrade to Plus
$2.50
/mo
Billed $30/year
Unlimited trip generations
Personalized packing lists
Extra details & local tips
Private & ad-free
Sign In to Upgrade
See all plans
Sign in to save this itinerary.
Sign Up
or
Sign In
Create a Free Account
Sign up for free to keep generating itineraries!
Sign Up Free
I already have an account
Trip Locations
Share Itinerary
PDF
Share
Post
Copy URL
Email this itinerary to someone...
Send Email