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5-Day Scenic Road Trip from San Diego to Yosemite National Park

Viewed by 611 travelers

Day 1: San Diego to Los Angeles

San Diego to Los Angeles, USA on April 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Mission Café

Enjoy a hearty breakfast featuring fresh, healthy options and delicious Mexican-inspired dishes to fuel your trip.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Drive from San Diego to Los Angeles

A scenic 2-hour drive north via I-5 for about 120 miles, emphasizing coastal and city views as you head toward Los Angeles.
USD0 (fuel cost applies), 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Explore Los Angeles’ historic Grand Central Market and sample diverse food stalls offering everything from tacos to gourmet sandwiches.
USD20, 1h0m

1:30pm

Visit The Getty Center

Explore world-class art collections, beautiful gardens, and breathtaking views of Los Angeles; open daily from 10am to 5:30pm.
Free (parking USD20), 2h30m

4:15pm

Check-In Hotel in Los Angeles

Relax and refresh before dinner at your centrally located hotel.
Varies, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Bestia

Enjoy modern Italian cuisine with a trendy vibe in LA’s Arts District; reservations recommended.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 2: Los Angeles to Fresno

Los Angeles to Fresno, USA on April 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Republique

Enjoy French-inspired breakfast pastries and farm-to-table dishes in a stylish setting.
USD20, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive from Los Angeles to Fresno

A roughly 3.5 hour drive (about 220 miles) on CA-99 N heading into California’s Central Valley.
USD0 (fuel cost applies), 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Pismo's Coastal Grill Fresno

Savor fresh seafood dishes and American classics in Fresno.
USD25, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Forestiere Underground Gardens

Explore this unique hand-built underground garden and tunnel network; open 10am-4pm daily.
USD20, 1h30m

4:00pm

Hotel Check-In in Fresno

Rest for the evening and prepare for your journey to Yosemite the next day.
Varies, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Dog House Grill

Enjoy casual dining with great grilled meats and local specialties.
USD25, 1h30m
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Day 3: Fresno to Yosemite

Fresno to Yosemite National Park, USA on April 22, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast at Kuppa Joy Coffee House & Eatery

Start early with coffee and breakfast to energize for your day of sightseeing.
USD15, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive from Fresno to Yosemite National Park

About 2 hours (60 miles) via CA-41 N entering Yosemite Park through the South Entrance.
USD0 (fuel cost applies), 2h0m

10:00am

Yosemite Valley Visitor Center

Get maps, info, and orientation about park trails and activities; open 9am-5pm.
USD35 per vehicle entrance fee, 1h0m

11:30am

Yosemite Falls Trail

Hike part of this popular trail with stunning views of the falls and valley; trail is accessible in spring.
Free (park entry required), 2h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Yosemite Valley Lodge Dining Room

Enjoy delicious meals with a view of Yosemite Falls in a casual dining atmosphere.
USD25, 1h30m

3:00pm

Visit Tunnel View

Iconic lookout for panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Fall; open year-round.
Free, 45m

4:00pm

Check-In at Yosemite Lodge or nearby accommodations

Settle into your lodging within or near the park for the next two nights.
Varies, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Mountain Room Restaurant

Dine with stunning views of Yosemite Falls and enjoy seasonal American cuisine; open for dinner from 5pm to 9pm.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 4: Exploring Yosemite

Yosemite National Park, USA on April 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Base Camp Eatery

Casual outdoor setting with a variety of breakfast options to start your day in the park.
USD20, 1h0m

8:30am

Visit Glacier Point

Drive or shuttle to Glacier Point to enjoy breathtaking overlooks of Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra; open seasonally, check conditions.
Free with park entry, 3h0m

12:00pm

Lunch Picnic at Sentinel Meadow

Relax with a packed lunch in a peaceful meadow with views of Half Dome and Yosemite Falls.
USD15 for packed lunch, 1h0m

1:30pm

Yosemite Museum and Indian Village

Learn about the natural and cultural history of Yosemite, open 9am-5pm.
Free with park entry, 1h0m

3:00pm

Mirror Lake Trail Walk

Enjoy an easy hike with beautiful reflections of Half Dome on the lake's surface.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Curry Village Pavilion

Casual dining with a variety of options perfect after a day of hiking.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 5: Yosemite to San Francisco

Yosemite to San Francisco, USA on April 24, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at Yosemite Valley Lodge

Enjoy a quick breakfast before your drive to the city.
USD20, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive to San Francisco

Approximate 4-hour (about 170 miles) scenic drive west via CA-120 W towards San Francisco.
USD0 (fuel cost applies), 4h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Fisherman's Wharf

Experience fresh seafood and vibrant atmosphere at this iconic San Francisco spot.
USD30, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Pier 39 and Nearby Attractions

Visit sea lions, shops, and street performances at Pier 39, open all day.
Free, 2h0m

3:30pm

Golden Gate Bridge Viewing

Drive or bike to iconic Golden Gate Bridge viewpoints for photos and sightseeing.
Free, 1h0m

5:00pm

Begin Drive Back to San Diego

Optional overnight stop or long drive home depending on schedule.
USD0 (fuel cost applies), Varies
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