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10-Day Southwest USA Road Trip: Nevada, Arizona & California Highlights

Viewed by 151 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Las Vegas, Nevada on May 8, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at The Peppermill

Start your day with a hearty American breakfast at the iconic Peppermill Restaurant, famous for its retro vibes and generous portions.
USD15, 1h

10:30am

Explore the Las Vegas Strip

Walk along the vibrant Las Vegas Strip visiting famous casinos and attractions like Bellagio Fountains, Caesars Palace, and The Venetian.
Free, 3h

2:00pm

Lunch at Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen

Enjoy a gourmet lunch experience in the heart of Caesars Palace, sampling refined American dishes by a celebrity chef.
USD40, 1h30m

4:00pm

Visit Neon Museum

Explore this unique museum featuring historic neon signs from Vegas's past. It's open until 9pm, perfect for afternoon visits.
USD20, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Lotus of Siam

Experience authentic Northern Thai cuisine widely regarded as one of the best in the US, reservations recommended.
USD35, 1h30m
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Day 2: Laughlin & Colorado River

Laughlin, Nevada on May 9, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Colorado Belle

Enjoy classic American breakfast dishes at the Colorado Belle Hotel overlooking the Colorado River.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Drive from Las Vegas to Laughlin

A scenic 1.5-hour drive along the Colorado River to Laughlin, known for its riverfront casinos and water recreation.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Jet Ski or River Cruise on Colorado River

Rent a jet ski or take a relaxing river cruise to enjoy the picturesque river landscape and desert backdrop.
USD50, 2h

1:30pm

Lunch at The Big Punch Bowl

Casual spot in Laughlin offering burgers, sandwiches, and local beers near the riverfront.
USD20, 1h

3:00pm

Visit Laughlin Labyrinths

Explore the outdoor labyrinth garden, a soothing and spiritual experience just a short drive from town.
USD0, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co.

Casual dining by the riverfront featuring seafood and American classics in a fun Forrest Gump-themed setting.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 3: Grand Canyon South Rim

Grand Canyon, Arizona on May 10, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel in Laughlin

Simple breakfast to fuel up before an early start to the Grand Canyon.
USD10, 30m

7:30am

Drive from Laughlin to Grand Canyon South Rim

Approximately 2.5-hour drive to the iconic Grand Canyon South Rim, opening at sunrise for spectacular views.
USD0, 2h30m

10:30am

Explore Grand Canyon Visitor Center & Rim Trail

Visit the Visitor Center for maps and information, then walk along the Rim Trail for breathtaking views.
USD35 per vehicle park entrance fee, 3h

1:30pm

Lunch at El Tovar Dining Room

Dine at this historic Grand Canyon hotel offering classic American cuisine with canyon views.
USD35, 1h

3:00pm

Hike part of Bright Angel Trail

Take a scenic hike down part of Bright Angel Trail to experience the canyon's grandeur up close.
USD0, 2h

6:00pm

Drive to Flagstaff, Arizona

1.5-hour scenic drive to Flagstaff to spend the night with more dining options.
USD0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Beaver Street Brewery

Enjoy locally brewed beers and American dishes in the historic downtown Flagstaff area.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 4: Sedona & Scenic Drive

Sedona, Arizona on May 11, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Macy's European Coffeehouse

Enjoy a European-style breakfast with fresh pastries and coffee in Flagstaff's cozy café.
USD15, 1h

9:30am

Drive Flagstaff to Sedona via Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive

A beautiful 45-minute drive on a scenic route through Oak Creek Canyon into the red rock landscape of Sedona.
USD0, 45m

10:15am

Chapel of the Holy Cross

Visit this famous architectural marvel built into the red rocks with stunning views open until 5pm.
Free, 1h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Hudson

Casual dining with great views of Sedona’s red rocks, offers American comfort food and local wines.
USD25, 1h

1:30pm

Hike Devil's Bridge Trail

Moderate 4-mile hike to a large natural sandstone arch, offering amazing photo opportunities.
Free, 3h

5:00pm

Explore Downtown Sedona

Walk the charming streets featuring shops, art galleries, and cafes with sunset views.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Mariposa Latin Inspired Grill

Upscale restaurant with Latin-inspired cuisine and spectacular views over Sedona’s red rocks.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 5: Joshua Tree National Park

Joshua Tree, California on May 12, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Sedona hotel

Early breakfast to prepare for a longer drive to Joshua Tree National Park.
USD15, 30m

8:00am

Drive Sedona to Joshua Tree National Park

Approximately a 5-hour drive crossing the California state line into Joshua Tree, known for unique desert flora and rock formations.
USD0, 5h

1:00pm

Lunch at Crossroads Cafe, Joshua Tree

Casual dining featuring classic American dishes and good coffee, perfect for a midday break.
USD20, 1h

2:30pm

Visit Joshua Tree National Park Visitor Center

Get park maps, learn about desert ecology, and plan your afternoon hike; open until 5pm.
USD30 per vehicle park entrance fee, 1h

3:30pm

Hike Hidden Valley Trail

A short easy 1-mile loop trail famous for its fascinating rock formations and plants.
Free, 1h30m

6:30pm

Drive to Palm Springs

45-minute drive to Palm Springs, known for its desert resorts and mid-century modern architecture.
USD0, 45m

7:30pm

Dinner at Workshop Kitchen + Bar

Farm-to-table dining in a trendy industrial-chic setting in downtown Palm Springs.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 6: Palm Springs & Relaxation

Palm Springs, California on May 13, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Cheeky's

Popular breakfast spot in Palm Springs serving inventive dishes with fresh local ingredients.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Ride the tram up to Mt. San Jacinto for hiking and spectacular views; open from 10am to 9pm.
USD30, 3h

1:00pm

Lunch at Kitchens Restaurant

Enjoy fresh contemporary American cuisine with local ingredients in a stylish Palm Springs setting.
USD30, 1h

2:30pm

Explore Palm Springs Art Museum

Discover contemporary and Native American art, open from 10am to 5pm on weekdays.
USD14, 1h30m

4:30pm

Relax at your hotel pool or spa

Enjoy some leisure time at your hotel to soak up the desert sunshine and recharge.
Included in hotel, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Spencer's Restaurant

Upscale dining with an outdoor patio offering American cuisine and a pleasant evening atmosphere.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 7: Drive to Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California on May 14, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Wilma & Frieda’s

Classic comfort food in a lively atmosphere to start your day in Palm Springs.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Drive from Palm Springs to Los Angeles

Approximate 2-hour drive west into the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles.
USD0, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Grand Central Market

Experience a vibrant food hall in downtown LA with diverse international cuisine options.
USD20, 1h

1:30pm

Walk along Hollywood Walk of Fame

See the famous stars on the sidewalk and visit TCL Chinese Theatre; a must-see LA landmark.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Griffith Observatory

Enjoy panoramic views of Los Angeles and the Hollywood sign; open until 10pm.
Free, 2h

7:00pm

Dinner at Musso & Frank Grill

Dine at the oldest restaurant in Hollywood, serving classic American dishes in a vintage ambiance.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 8: Beach & City

Santa Monica & Venice, California on May 15, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Back on the Beach Cafe

Enjoy beachfront dining with ocean views and fresh breakfast fare in Santa Monica.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Santa Monica Pier & Beach

Explore the iconic pier with its amusement park, aquarium, and lovely beach walk.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at The Albright

Fresh seafood and casual dining located on Santa Monica Pier.
USD30, 1h

1:30pm

Walk Venice Beach Boardwalk

Watch street performers, see colorful murals, and visit unique shops along Venice Beach.
Free, 2h

4:00pm

Visit Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Boutique shopping and trendy cafes on this popular Venice street known for its cool vibe.
Free, 1h

7:00pm

Dinner at Gjelina

Highly-rated restaurant serving Californian cuisine with locally sourced ingredients in Venice.
USD45, 1h30m
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Day 9: Explore Downtown LA

Los Angeles, California on May 16, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Republique

Renowned bakery and cafe offering French-inspired breakfast and pastries in a beautiful space.
USD25, 1h

9:30am

Visit The Broad Museum

Explore a contemporary art museum with works by renowned modern artists; free entry but reserve tickets in advance.
Free, 2h

12:00pm

Lunch at Otium

Adjacent to The Broad, this trendy restaurant offers inventive American fare in a modern setting.
USD40, 1h

1:30pm

Stroll through Walt Disney Concert Hall & Grand Park

Admire the architecture of the concert hall and relax in the adjacent urban park.
Free, 1h

3:00pm

Explore Los Angeles Central Library

Visit this architectural gem and cultural landmark with exhibitions and reading rooms.
Free, 1h

6:00pm

Dinner at Bestia

Popular Italian restaurant in the Arts District requiring reservations for delicious and unique pastas and meats.
USD50, 1h30m
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Day 10: Departure Day

Los Angeles, California on May 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Urth Caffé

Organic coffee and healthy breakfast options in a casual setting to start your departure day relaxed.
USD20, 1h

9:30am

Last-minute shopping or stroll in Santa Monica

Take a last walk along the beach or visit the Santa Monica Farmers Market if open for souvenirs.
Free, 1h30m

12:00pm

Head for LAX Airport for departure

Allow ample time for traffic and security when preparing to leave Los Angeles.
USD0, Varies
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