Orange County, Palm Springs, Santa Monica, West Hollywood

That sounds like an exciting trip! With a family of five and three teenagers, you’ll want a mix of fun, relaxation, and some unforgettable experiences. Here’s a 7-day itinerary that includes Orange County, Palm Springs, Santa Monica, and West Hollywood, along with an NFL game. Let’s dive in!

Day 1: Arrival in Orange County

Morning:

• Arrive in Orange County! Settle into your hotel or vacation rental. If you’re staying in Anaheim, you’ll be close to many attractions.

Afternoon:

• Head to Disneyland or Disney California Adventure for a magical start to your trip. Since you have teenagers, they might enjoy the thrill rides like Space Mountain or Incredicoaster.

Evening:

• Grab dinner at Downtown Disney. There are plenty of family-friendly options like Naples Ristorante e Bar or Tortilla Jo’s.

Day 2: Explore Orange County

Morning:

• After breakfast, visit Knott’s Berry Farm for some amusement park fun. The rides are thrilling, and there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained.

Afternoon:

• Enjoy lunch at the park, then head to Huntington Beach. Let the kids play in the sand or try surfing lessons if they’re adventurous!

Evening:

• Dinner at Duke’s on the beach for a casual vibe and great views.

Day 3: Travel to Palm Springs

Morning:

• Check out of your hotel and drive to Palm Springs (about 1.5 hours).

Afternoon:

• Once you arrive, have lunch at Sherman’s Deli & Bakery for some delicious sandwiches.
• Afterward, visit the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway for stunning views of the Coachella Valley.

Evening:

• Dinner at The Tropicale, which has a fun atmosphere and a diverse menu.

Day 4: Palm Springs Adventures

Morning:

• Start your day with a hike in Indian Canyons. The trails are beautiful and suitable for families.

Afternoon:

• After your hike, have lunch at Cheeky’s, known for its brunch and fresh ingredients.
• Spend the afternoon at the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens. The kids will love the animals and interactive exhibits.

Evening:

• Enjoy a relaxed dinner at Pomme Frite, a cozy spot with great fries and burgers.

Day 5: Travel to Santa Monica

Morning:

• Check out and drive to Santa Monica (about 2 hours).

Afternoon:

• Arrive and have lunch at The Albright on the Santa Monica Pier.
• Spend the afternoon exploring the pier, playing games, and enjoying the beach.

Evening:

• Dinner at Rusty’s Surf Ranch for a fun atmosphere with live music and ocean views.

Day 6: Santa Monica & West Hollywood

Morning:

• After breakfast, rent bikes and ride along the Santa Monica Boardwalk to Venice Beach. Check out the street performers and shops.

Afternoon:

• Head to West Hollywood (about 30 minutes). Have lunch at The Griddle Cafe, famous for its oversized pancakes.
• Spend the afternoon exploring Hollywood Boulevard. Don’t forget to check out the Walk of Fame and TCL Chinese Theatre.

Evening:

• Catch an NFL game! Depending on the schedule, you might be able to see the Los Angeles Rams or Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium. Make sure to buy tickets in advance!

Day 7: Departure

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café.
• If time allows, visit the Los Angeles County Museum of Art (LACMA) or take a stroll through Griffith Park for some last-minute sightseeing.

Afternoon:

• Head back to the airport for your departure.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the NFL schedule ahead of time to secure tickets for the game.
• Consider booking accommodations that are centrally located to minimize travel time.
• Keep an eye on the weather, especially in Palm Springs, as it can get quite hot!

I hope this itinerary helps you create some amazing family memories! Enjoy your trip! 🌞🏖️🏈