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Wallet-Friendly Family USA Tour: Dubai to New York, DC, North Carolina, Chicago & Purdue University Stay

Viewed by 89 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Settle

New York City, USA on August 10, 2025

9:00am

Flight from Dubai to New York JFK

Overnight flight approximately 14 hours. Ideally arrive morning of August 10th.
Includes airfare, 14h0m

1:00pm

Hotel Check-in at Fairfield Inn & Suites New York Manhattan/Times Square

Comfortable and wallet-friendly hotel with good hygiene and central location near Times Square.
USD150/night, N/A

3:00pm

Central Park Walk

Relax and stretch your legs after the flight with a walk in Central Park, NYC’s iconic urban oasis.
Free, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at Carmine's Italian Restaurant

Family-friendly, well-reviewed casual spot serving classic Italian dishes perfect for a welcoming dinner.
Approx. USD60, 1h
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Day 2: NYC Icons

New York City, USA on August 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Friedman's

Farm-to-table breakfast offering gluten-free options and fresh juices, open 7am-3pm.
Approx. USD25, 1h

9:30am

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Tour

Take the ferry from Battery Park to visit these American landmarks. Book tickets online in advance. Open 9am-5pm.
USD24 per adult, 4h

2:00pm

Lunch at Katz’s Delicatessen

Famous for classic New York pastrami sandwiches, open 8am-10:45pm.
Approx. USD20, 1h

3:30pm

Visit 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Important historical site open 10am-5pm, get a deep understanding of modern US history and values.
USD26 per adult, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at Juliana’s Pizza

Enjoy wallet-friendly, quality New York-style pizza in Brooklyn. Open until 10pm.
Approx. USD35, 1h
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Day 3: Museums & Views

New York City, USA on August 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

Classic NYC bagel breakfast spot, open 6:30am-6pm.
Approx. USD15, 45m

8:30am

Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world’s largest and finest art museums. Open 10am-5pm.
Suggested donation USD30, 3h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Modern

Refined but wallet-conscious contemporary American cuisine next to MoMA. Open 11:30am-2pm.
Approx. USD40, 1h

1:30pm

Walk the High Line & Chelsea Market

Stroll this elevated park built on a former railroad track and explore nearby Chelsea Market food stalls and shops.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

One World Observatory

Visit the observation deck for incredible city views; open 9am-9pm.
USD40 per adult, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Shake Shack

Casual, high-quality burgers and shakes at a budget-friendly price, open till 11pm.
Approx. USD25, 1h
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Day 4: Travel to Washington DC

Washington DC, USA on August 13, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Start your day with a light complimentary hotel breakfast before traveling.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Amtrak Train to Washington DC

Take the efficient Amtrak Northeast Regional train from Penn Station NYC to Washington DC Union Station. Approximately 3h30m.
Approx. USD80 per person, 3h30m

1:00pm

Hotel Check-in at Hyatt Place Washington DC/US Capitol

Clean, wallet-friendly hotel with good location near Capitol and Metro.
USD130/night, N/A

2:30pm

Explore National Mall Monuments

Visit Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Open all day, free access.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Busboys and Poets

Popular local spot for casual dining with a socially conscious vibe, open till 9pm.
Approx. USD35, 1h
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Day 5: Museums & Capitol

Washington DC, USA on August 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Founding Farmers DC

Farm-to-table American specialties, open 7am-10pm.
Approx. USD30, 1h

9:00am

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Explore fascinating aeronautical exhibits and history; open 10am-5:30pm.
Free, 2h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Comptoir Libanais

Affordable Lebanese mezzes and meals near Mall; open 11am-8pm.
Approx. USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Tour U.S. Capitol Building

Book a free guided tour in advance to view the political heart of the nation; tours 9am-4pm.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Visit Library of Congress

Architectural and cultural marvel adjacent to Capitol, open 8:30am-4:30pm.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill

Historic American restaurant near White House, nice ambiance, open till 10pm.
Approx. USD40, 1h
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Day 6: Historic Sites & Travel

Washington DC to Raleigh, North Carolina on August 15, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Relaxed breakfast before check-out.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Visit National Gallery of Art

Extensive art collections from Renaissance to Modern; open 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

12:15pm

Lunch at Shake Shack near National Mall

Quick, budget-friendly premium burgers and shakes; open till 11pm.
Approx. USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Flight from Washington DC (DCA) to Raleigh-Durham (RDU)

Approximate flight duration 1h30m. Choose budget airlines like American or Southwest for affordable fares.
Approx. USD70 per person, 1h30m

4:00pm

Hotel check-in at Hyatt Place Raleigh North Hills

Comfortable, budget-friendly hotel with good hygiene and amenities.
USD110/night, N/A

5:00pm

Evening visit to North Hills Shopping & Dining Area

Leisurely stroll, enjoy local shops and cafes with family-friendly vibe.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Cowfish Sushi Burger Bar

Unique combination of burgers and sushi in a modern, casual setting, open until 10pm.
Approx. USD35, 1h
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Day 7: Nature & Culture

Raleigh, North Carolina on August 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Big Ed’s City Market Restaurant

Classic southern breakfast diner; open 7am-3pm.
Approx. USD20, 1h

9:00am

Visit North Carolina Museum of Art

Fascinating art collections and beautiful park trails; open 10am-5pm.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Beasley’s Chicken + Honey

Popular Southern comfort food with a modern twist, open 11am-9pm.
Approx. USD25, 1h

1:30pm

William B. Umstead State Park Hiking

Relax in nature with easy hikes, biking, or picnic. Open sunrise to sunset.
Free, 3h

5:30pm

Return to hotel and rest

Hotel relaxation time before dinner.
Included, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Brewery Bhavana

Dim sum and craft brewery fusion with a friendly atmosphere, open till 10pm.
Approx. USD40, 1h
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Day 8: Travel to Purdue University

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 17, 2025

6:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Early breakfast before travel.
Included, 1h

7:00am

Flight from Raleigh-Durham (RDU) to Chicago O’Hare (ORD)

Approximately 2h40m flight. Budget airlines available.
Approx. USD80 per person, 2h40m

10:00am

Rental car pick-up at ORD Airport

Drive approximately 2h from Chicago to West Lafayette, Indiana for convenience and exploring area.
Approx. USD50/day, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch in West Lafayette at Triple XXX Family Restaurant

Iconic local diner experience serving classic American comfort food, open 7am-9pm.
Approx. USD20, 1h

1:00pm

Check-in at Graduate Lafayette Hotel

Comfortable hotel close to Purdue University campus, wallet-friendly yet with good hygiene.
USD120/night, N/A

2:00pm

Campus Tour at Purdue University

Explore the beautiful Purdue campus where your son will be staying. Guided tours available, book in advance, open 9am-5pm.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Explore Downtown West Lafayette

Family-friendly cafes, shops and riverside views to enjoy your first evening here.
Free, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at The Brass Ring Pub & Eatery

Popular casual sports bar and grill with American classics, open till 10pm.
Approx. USD30, 1h
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Day 9: Purdue & Explore

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 18, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Village Pantry

Local breakfast spot popular among students and families, open 6am-2pm.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:00am

Visit Purdue University Art Galleries & Stewart Center

Enjoy campus art and cultural spaces, open 9am-5pm weekdays.
Free, 2h

11:30am

Visit Purdue Arboretum

Quiet green space for a peaceful walk or picnic on campus, open dawn to dusk.
Free, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch at Triple XXX Family Restaurant or campus food court

Affordable and tasty food options close by for lunch.
Approx. USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Relax or attend welcoming orientation events for your son, if available

Engage with campus community or settle your son in his accommodation.
Free, 3h

6:00pm

Dinner at Harry’s Chocolate Shop

Cozy cafe with unique sandwiches, snacks, and desserts; open till 9pm.
Approx. USD25, 1h
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Day 10: Purdue Settling In

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local cafe

Start the day leisurely with breakfast nearby.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:30am

Day trip to Prophetstown State Park

Nature trails, native history, and picnic spots near West Lafayette, open 8am-sunset.
Free, 4h

1:30pm

Lunch picnic at the park or return to town

Pack lunch or purchase local takeout to enjoy a relaxing meal outside.
Approx. USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Relax at hotel or explore more campus shops

Downtime for family and prep for onward travel.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Black Sparrow

Trendy restaurant serving crafted American dishes with good family atmosphere, open till 10pm.
Approx. USD40, 1h
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Day 11: Purdue Relaxation

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Village Pantry

Favorite casual local breakfast joint to fuel your day.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:30am

Attend Purdue campus events or explore Grissom Hall

Join any available cultural or academic events or visit local landmarks on campus.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at campus dining or nearby cafe

Convenient, budget-conscious meal option.
Approx. USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Wabash Heritage Trail

Explore this scenic trail along the Wabash River, great for a relaxed walk or bike ride. Open daylight hours.
Free, 2h

5:00pm

Return to hotel rest

Early evening rest after the walk.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Panera Bread

Affordable bakery-cafe with soups, salads and sandwiches, open till 9pm.
Approx. USD25, 1h
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Day 12: Purdue & Chicago Trip

West Lafayette to Chicago, Illinois on August 21, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast and check-out

Quick breakfast before journey to Chicago via rental car.
Approx. USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive from West Lafayette to Chicago

Convenient 2-hour drive to Chicago with rental car, plan for morning traffic.
Included in rental, 2h

10:30am

Hotel Check-in at Hampton Inn Majestic Chicago Theatre District

Comfort-oriented hotel with good value in central Chicago close to lakefront and museums.
USD150/night, N/A

11:30am

Lunch at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria

Classic Chicago deep-dish pizza, affordable and beloved by locals, open 11am-10pm.
Approx. USD30, 1h

1:00pm

Visit Millennium Park & Cloud Gate ‘The Bean’

Iconic Chicago park with modern art installations and great photo opportunities, open dawn to dusk.
Free, 1h30m

2:30pm

Art Institute of Chicago

Renowned art museum with extensive collections, open 10:30am-5pm.
USD25 per adult, 2h

5:00pm

Relax by Lake Michigan at Navy Pier

Enjoy the lakefront, gardens, and free outdoor entertainment. Open until 10pm.
Free entrance, 2h

7:30pm

Dinner at Portillo’s Hot Dogs

Casual local favorite for Chicago-style hot dogs and Italian beef sandwiches, open till 10pm.
Approx. USD20, 1h
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Day 13: Chicago Sights

Chicago, Illinois on August 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wildberry Pancakes and Cafe

One of Chicago’s best breakfast spots, loved for pancakes and healthy options. Open 7am-3pm.
Approx. USD25, 1h

9:30am

Skydeck Chicago at Willis Tower

Spectacular views from the 103rd floor open 9am-10pm.
USD30, 1h30m

11:30am

Field Museum of Natural History

Explore dinosaur fossils and world cultures; open 9am-5pm.
USD26 per adult, 2h

2:00pm

Lunch at Portillo’s or food trucks nearby

Enjoy local favorites or street food options in budget.
Approx. USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Shedd Aquarium nearby

World-class aquarium with diverse marine life exhibits; open 9am-5pm.
USD32 per adult, 2h

6:00pm

Early Dinner at Chicago Diner

Vegetarian-friendly diner with American classics, open till 9pm.
Approx. USD30, 1h
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Day 14: Return to Purdue

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 23, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Comfortable start before driving back to Purdue.
Included, 1h

9:00am

Drive back to West Lafayette from Chicago

Travel approximately 2h to Purdue campus and check-in hotel near campus.
Included in rental, 2h

11:30am

Lunch at local cafes

Choose from local affordable eateries to fuel up after the drive.
Approx. USD20, 1h

1:00pm

Settle son in Purdue accommodation and attend orientation

Focus on university activities, registration, and settling in.
Free, 3h

4:30pm

Downtown exploration with family

Last walks together before your son begins university life.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Triple XXX Family Restaurant

A comforting local favorite before your son’s start.
Approx. USD25, 1h
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Day 15: Rest & Explore Locally

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or village pantry

Relaxed start to the day.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:30am

Visit Purdue Galleries or local shops

Explore local culture and pick up souvenirs.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at campus or nearby cafe

Affordable lunch time.
Approx. USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Visit local farmers’ market if available

Experience locally grown produce and crafts. Confirm market schedule.
Free, 1h30m

3:30pm

Rest or park visit

Wind down in local parks or hotel.
Free, 2h

6:30pm

Dinner at local family restaurant

Enjoy a last family dinner in West Lafayette.
Approx. USD35, 1h
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Day 16: Purdue University Activities

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or cafe

Start fresh with a full breakfast.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:30am

Attend university events or explore Library

Further engage with son’s university life or visit key spots on campus.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at campus dining

Affordable, no-fuss meal option.
Approx. USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Leisure time or nearby outdoor activity

Relax or walk along local trails.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Happy Grilled Cheese

Casual restaurant specializing in a variety of grilled cheese sandwiches, open till 9pm.
Approx. USD25, 1h
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Day 17: Full Purdue Stay

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 26, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at local cafe

Enjoy a slower pace morning with favorite cafe breakfast.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:30am

Campus visit and university engagements

Attend scheduled events or family activities on campus.
Free, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Harry’s Chocolate Shop

Meeting spot with tasty meals and desserts.
Approx. USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit local museums or relax

Explore any local attractions or take rest.
Free or minimal entry fee, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at The Meat House

Casual meat-centric eatery offering sandwiches and grills, open till 9pm.
Approx. USD30, 1h
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Day 18: Purdue & Local Leisure

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 27, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or cafe

Start day refreshed with a light breakfast.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:30am

Explore more campus or local parks

Enjoy nature walks or campus strolls.
Free, 3h

12:30pm

Lunch at a local cafe

Try different local specialties in a relaxed setting.
Approx. USD20, 1h

2:00pm

Attend any local event or relax

Check community bulletin for any interesting local events.
Free to minimal, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at Krazy Fish American Grill

Casual atmosphere serving seafood and American dishes, open till 9pm.
Approx. USD30, 1h
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Day 19: Purdue Last Days

West Lafayette, Indiana on August 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast

Relaxed morning with favorite breakfast spot.
Approx. USD15, 1h

9:30am

Shopping or campus exploration

Pick up necessities or souvenirs for trip back.
Variable, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch

Light lunch before afternoon packing and rest.
Approx. USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Relax and prepare for departure

Final family time before your return journey.
Free, 3h

6:30pm

Dinner at local favorite

Farewell dinner with family memories.
Approx. USD35, 1h
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Day 20: Departure from USA

West Lafayette to Chicago O’Hare Airport on August 29, 2025

7:00am

Early breakfast and check-out

Finish packing and have breakfast.
Included or USD15, 1h

8:00am

Drive to Chicago O’Hare Airport

Approximate 2h drive, allow extra time for car return and airport security.
Included in rental, 2h

10:30am

Rental car drop-off

Return vehicle to rental facility at ORD.
Included, 0h30m

11:00am

Check-in and relax at Chicago O’Hare Airport

Complete security and enjoy airport amenities before flight.
N/A, 3h

2:00pm

Flight Chicago to Dubai

Direct or connecting flight home. Approximate flight time 14h.
Included airfare, 14h
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