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01 Feb 2025Updated last time
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California 7 days Road Trip Itinerary

California Dreamin' Road Trip: A 7-Day Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable road trip through California, a journey that promises to dazzle with its diversity, from the cultural heartbeat of cities to the serene majesty of nature's wonders. Your adventure kicks off in the iconic city of San Francisco, where the Golden Gate Bridge, historic cable cars, and vibrant neighborhoods await. From urban exploration, transition to the tranquility of Muir Woods National Monument and marvel at ancient coastal redwoods that tower towards the sky.

The journey continues as you indulge in the tastes and sights of Napa Valley, a revered destination for wine enthusiasts and foodies. Experience the best of California's wine country, with a dash of pampering at world-class spas.

From the leisurely pleasures of Napa, ascend to the natural splendor of Lake Tahoe. Whether seeking peaceful hikes or thrilling water sports, the lake's crystal-clear waters set against mountainous backdrops offer activities for every season.

Next, witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Yosemite National Park. From majestic waterfalls to giant sequoias, Yosemite's landscape invites exploration and offers moments of reflection at sites like El Capitan and Half Dome.

Your adventure doesn't end here; travel further to Sequoia National Park to stand amidst giants such as the General Sherman Tree and soak in the sheer scale and beauty of these ancient forests.

Finally, descend into the bustling metropolis of Los Angeles. A city of dreams, LA combines the glamor of Hollywood with cultural richness, art, and an unparalleled culinary scene. Enjoy the sun-kissed beaches, and immerse yourself in the vibrant energy that radiates throughout the city.

This California road trip is more than a journey through famous destinations; it's an invitation to experience the vast contrasts and unique beauty of the Golden State. From the serene to the bustling, the natural to the man-made, prepare for a trip that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.


Recommended Activities

  • Trip Point Pin1

    San Francisco

    Famous for its iconic Golden Gate Bridge, vibrant food scene, and historic cable cars, San Francisco offers a diverse blend of cultural, historical, and natural attractions.
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    Muir Woods National Monument

    Home to towering ancient coastal redwoods, Muir Woods provides a serene and majestic setting for walking and reflection amidst nature's giants, just a short drive from San Francisco.
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    Napa Valley

    Renowned for its world-class wineries and picturesque vineyard landscapes, Napa Valley is a premier destination for wine tasting, gourmet dining, and spa treatments.
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  • Known for its stunning clear waters and surrounding mountain landscapes, Lake Tahoe offers year-round outdoor activities such as skiing, hiking, and boating.
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    Yosemite National Park

    Famed for its waterfalls, giant sequoias, and incredible cliff faces like El Capitan and Half Dome, Yosemite National Park provides breathtaking natural beauty and opportunities for adventurous exploration.
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    Sequoia National Park

    Home to some of the largest trees on Earth, the giant sequoias, Sequoia National Park offers unique hiking opportunities and the chance to see the massive General Sherman Tree.
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    Los Angeles

    A global hub of entertainment, culture, and arts, Los Angeles is famed for its iconic Hollywood sign, extensive museum collections, beautiful beaches, and diverse culinary scene.
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Restaurants

  • Opaque

    Dine in complete darkness, served by visually impaired staff, for a unique sensory experience.
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    The Magic Castle

    The Magic Castle

    An exclusive club offering close-up magical performances alongside dinner, a truly enchanting evening.
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    The Pirate's Dinner Adventure

    The Pirate's Dinner Adventure

    Enjoy a swashbuckling live performance and dinner show, great fun for families and adventure seekers.
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    Madame Tussauds Hollywood

    Madame Tussauds Hollywood

    Not just a wax museum, but an opportunity to 'dine' with celebrities at their themed events and dinners.
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    Clifton's Republic

    Clifton's Republic

    Step into a multi-level 'cabinet of curiosities' offering a unique dining experience amidst Californian history and decor themes.
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    The Bubble Room

    The Bubble Room

    Located on Captiva Island, this restaurant is filled with toys from the 1930s and 1940s, offering a nostalgic dining experience.
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  • Supperclub

    Enjoy your meal lounging on beds in an all-white room with unexpected performances and art displays.
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    NINJA New York

    NINJA New York

    Dine in a recreated Japanese village with ninja servers who perform tricks and entertain as they serve.
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Hotels

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    The Queen Mary

    The Queen Mary

    A historic ocean liner turned hotel, offering unique rooms and a glimpse into transatlantic travel of the past.
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  • Madonna Inn

    An iconic hotel known for its eccentric themed rooms, from a cave room to a pink champagne suite, each offering a distinctive experience.
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    The Hicksville Trailer Palace

    The Hicksville Trailer Palace

    A quirky trailer park hotel offering a variety of themed trailers in a secluded desert location, complete with a communal fire pit and pool.
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    Hotel Vertigo

    Hotel Vertigo

    Named for its appearance in the Hitchcock classic, this boutique hotel offers a blend of modern chic and historical charm.
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    Dog Bark Park Inn

    Dog Bark Park Inn

    A beagle-shaped bed and breakfast that's a must-stay for dog lovers, offering cozy accommodations in a memorable setting.
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    The Vintages Trailer Resort

    The Vintages Trailer Resort

    Nestled in the heart of wine country, this resort offers retro trailers for a nostalgic yet luxurious camping experience.
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Local Events & Happenings

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    Frankie Quinones

    Frankie Quinones

    The event will take place at Turlock Community Theatre in Turlock.
    Map IconTurlock Community Theatre in Turlock (21.05 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Sep 2024
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    Midland

    Midland

    All events are rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited throughout the concert venue, except in the designated area. Please do not bring outside food & beverages, coolers, pets, professional cameras, audio or video recording equipment, weapons of any kin...
    Map IconThe Fruit Yard Amphitheater in Modesto (25.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon27 Jul 2024
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    Walker Hayes: Same Drunk Tour

    Walker Hayes: Same Drunk Tour

    All events are rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited throughout the concert venue, except in the designated area. Please do not bring outside food & beverages, coolers, pets, professional cameras, audio or video recording equipment, weapons of any kin...
    Map IconThe Fruit Yard Amphitheater in Modesto (25.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon9 Aug 2024
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    Paquita la del Barrio

    Paquita la del Barrio

    Todos los eventos son con lluvia o sol. PAQUITA LA DEL BARRIO LUPITA INFANTE FLOR DE TOLOACHE JACQIE RIVERA Está prohibido fumar en toda la sala del concierto, excepto en la zona designada. No traiga alimentos y bebidas del exterior, hieleras, mascot...
    Map IconThe Fruit Yard Amphitheater in Modesto (25.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon25 Aug 2024
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    ERNEST

    ERNEST

    All events are rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited throughout the concert venue, except in the designated area. Please do not bring outside food & beverages, coolers, pets, professional cameras, audio or video recording equipment, weapons of any kin...
    Map IconThe Fruit Yard Amphitheater in Modesto (25.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon15 Sep 2024
    Picture for ERNEST
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    Chris Janson with Parmalee

    Chris Janson with Parmalee

    All events are rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited throughout the concert venue, except in the designated area. Please do not bring outside food & beverages, coolers, pets, professional cameras, audio or video recording equipment, weapons of any kin...
    Map IconThe Fruit Yard Amphitheater in Modesto (25.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon21 Sep 2024
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    Dwight Yoakam and The Mavericks

    Dwight Yoakam and The Mavericks

    All events are rain or shine. Smoking is prohibited throughout the concert venue, except in the designated area. Please do not bring outside food & beverages, coolers, pets, professional cameras, audio or video recording equipment, weapons of any kin...
    Map IconThe Fruit Yard Amphitheater in Modesto (25.52 mi)
    Calendar Icon27 Sep 2024
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Travel Gems from Reddit

  • Reddit Icon

    Recommendations for a road trip in California in mid-May . Question So, Im currently planning a road trip in California in mid-May. My starting point is Las Vegas and my end p...

    Recommendations for a road trip in California in mid-May

    Recommendations for a road trip in California in mid-May . Question So, Im currently planning a road trip in California in mid-May. My starting point is Las Vegas and my end p...

    /r/travel
  • Reddit Icon

    Nestled right between Yosemite and Napa is the beautiful city of Stockton. Just kidding please don't go to Stockton. Honestly I would probably loop around so that you can spen...

    California Road trip in 2 weeks

    Nestled right between Yosemite and Napa is the beautiful city of Stockton. Just kidding please don't go to Stockton. Honestly I would probably loop around so that you can spen...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Honestly, any area off the 395 is a win in my book. I do a road trip from LA to Yosemite most years and is THE way to go for a proper California road trip. Happy travels, frie...

    California road trip ideas?

    Honestly, any area off the 395 is a win in my book. I do a road trip from LA to Yosemite most years and is THE way to go for a proper California road trip. Happy travels, frie...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    2 week road trip in California - 5 days advice . Planning a trip flying to San Fran in August - wanting to leave from Las Vegas (going to do 2 weeks in mexico as well). Spendi...

    2 week road trip in California - 5 days advice

    2 week road trip in California - 5 days advice . Planning a trip flying to San Fran in August - wanting to leave from Las Vegas (going to do 2 weeks in mexico as well). Spendi...

    /r/usatravel
  • Reddit Icon

    California 10 Day road trip advice Looking at doing a 1 week trip to California and was wondering if our itinerary seems like a good way to see important things, and open to s...

    California 10 Day road trip advice

    California 10 Day road trip advice Looking at doing a 1 week trip to California and was wondering if our itinerary seems like a good way to see important things, and open to s...

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Hi All, I am planning to do a road trip in California and my starting point is SF. Will be flying to SF from Seattle. These are the list of things I

    Recommendations for California Road Trip

    Hi All, I am planning to do a road trip in California and my starting point is SF. Will be flying to SF from Seattle. These are the list of things I

    /r/roadtrip
  • Reddit Icon

    Since we have a bit of time to kill, was hoping to make a few stops along the way and make the 4 hour trip to an 8-9 hour trip (sort of a lazy road trip :D). We plan to leave ...

    Recommendations for first time road trip from SF to Lake Tahoe

    Since we have a bit of time to kill, was hoping to make a few stops along the way and make the 4 hour trip to an 8-9 hour trip (sort of a lazy road trip :D). We plan to leave ...

    /r/norcal

Music for Your Journey

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    The Mamas & The Papas - California Dreamin' - Single Version

    The Mamas & The Papas - California Dreamin' - Single Version

    A classic that encapsulates the desire to be in the sunny state, perfect for setting the mood for your California adventure.
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    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    Eagles - Hotel California - 2013 Remaster

    This iconic song offers a sense of mystery and allure, mirroring the diverse and sometimes enigmatic nature of California.
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    Led Zeppelin - Going to California - Remaster

    Led Zeppelin - Going to California - Remaster

    A soft, acoustic melody that reflects the journey and excitement of exploring new places.
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    2Pac - California Love - Original Version

    2Pac - California Love - Original Version

    A dynamic rap anthem that pays tribute to the West Coast's vibes and scenery, invigorating and full of energy.
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    Tony Bennett - (I Left My Heart) In San Francisco

    Tony Bennett - (I Left My Heart) In San Francisco

    A timeless ballad that captures the enchantment of San Francisco, ideal for driving through the city's hilly streets.
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    Jack Johnson - Big Sur

    Jack Johnson - Big Sur

    Evokes the carefree spirit and stunning beauty of California's coastline, perfect for a scenic drive.
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    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dani California

    Red Hot Chili Peppers - Dani California

    This energetic track combines elements of rock and storytelling, mirroring the diverse cultural landscape of California.
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    Scott McKenzie - San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers In Your Hair)

    Scott McKenzie - San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers In Your Hair)

    An emblematic 60s anthem that captures the spirit of freedom and peace, ideal for reminiscing San Francisco's historic counterculture.
    Listen on Spotify
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    America - Ventura Highway

    America - Ventura Highway

    With a laid-back vibe, this song is perfect for enjoying California's scenic routes and highways.
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    Capital Cities - Safe And Sound

    Capital Cities - Safe And Sound

    An upbeat and catchy melody that complements the joyous and carefree moments of traveling.
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