Itinerary for 10 day trip to California

A 10-day road trip from Seattle to San Francisco sounds like an amazing adventure! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances hiking, great food, and some fantastic museums along the way. Buckle up, and let’s hit the road!

Day 1: Seattle to Portland

Morning: Start your journey with a hearty breakfast at a local favorite, like . Then, hit the road to Portland (about 3 hours).

Afternoon: Once in Portland, grab lunch at the famous food trucks at . Afterward, explore the to get your culture fix.

Evening: For dinner, head to the trendy and enjoy some delicious farm-to-table cuisine at .

Day 2: Portland to Hood River

Morning: After breakfast, take a scenic drive along the Columbia River Gorge (about 1 hour). Stop at for a short hike and some stunning views.

Afternoon: Continue to Hood River, where you can grab lunch at a local café. Spend the afternoon hiking the or, if you’re feeling adventurous, try windsurfing or kiteboarding!

Evening: Enjoy dinner at with a view of the river.

Day 3: Hood River to Bend

Morning: After breakfast, head to Bend (about 2.5 hours). On the way, stop at for a morning hike. The views are breathtaking!

Afternoon: Arrive in Bend and grab lunch at a local brewery, like . Spend the afternoon exploring the to learn about the region’s history and wildlife.

Evening: Dinner at is a must! Enjoy their rooftop patio for a great view of the sunset.

Day 4: Bend to

Morning: After breakfast, drive to (about 2 hours). Spend the day hiking around the lake. The Rim Trail offers stunning views!

Afternoon: Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the scenic overlooks.

Evening: Head back to Bend for dinner or stay in a nearby lodge for a cozy night under the stars.

Day 5: Bend to Redding

Morning: Depart Bend and head to Redding (about 3.5 hours). Stop at the for a quick photo op.

Afternoon: Grab lunch in Redding, then visit the , which includes a museum and beautiful gardens.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local favorite, like , known for its steaks and seafood.

Day 6: Redding to San Francisco

Morning: After breakfast, hit the road to San Francisco (about 3.5 hours).

Afternoon: Arrive in San Francisco and grab lunch at . Don’t miss the clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl!

Evening: Explore the vibrant neighborhood for dinner. Try for some award-winning pies!

Day 7: San Francisco - & Museums

Morning: Start your day with a stroll through . Visit the and the .

Afternoon: Have lunch at the park’s café, then continue exploring the park or take a hike up to for stunning coastal views.

Evening: Dinner in the Mission District at for some of the best tacos in the city.

Day 8: San Francisco - Alcatraz & More

Morning: Take a ferry to for a self-guided audio tour of the infamous prison.

Afternoon: Return to the city and have lunch at the , where you can sample local delicacies.

Evening: Head to for dinner. Try the dim sum at for a delightful experience!

Day 9: San Francisco to Monterey

Morning: Depart San Francisco and drive to Monterey (about 2 hours). Stop at along the way for a quick beach stroll.

Afternoon: Arrive in Monterey and visit the . Grab lunch at .

Evening: Enjoy a seafood dinner at with a view of the ocean.

Day 10: Monterey to San Francisco

Morning: Take a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive, stopping at and for some last-minute hiking.

Afternoon: Head back to San Francisco (about 2 hours). If time allows, visit the for some interactive fun.

Evening: For your final dinner, treat yourself to a meal at , a Michelin-starred restaurant that’s perfect for a celebratory end to your trip!

Wrap-Up

And there you have it! A perfect blend of hiking, food, and culture over 10 days in California. Make sure to take lots of pictures and enjoy every moment of your road trip! Safe travels! 🚗✨