14-Day Road Trip: San Francisco to Yellowstone Itinerary

Begin your day with a visit to Alcatraz. Take a ferry from Pier 33 and explore this historic island prison. The audio tour provides fascinating insights into its history.

After returning from Alcatraz, head to San Francisco Chinatown for lunch. Enjoy delicious dim sum at The Slanted Door and then wander through the bustling streets, exploring shops and markets.

In the evening, visit Coit Tower for panoramic views of the city. Afterward, dine at Kokkari Estiatorio, known for its Mediterranean cuisine.

Start your day with breakfast at Tartine Bakery, famous for its pastries. Then head to Painted Ladies, where you can admire these beautifully painted Victorian houses.

Visit the Legion of Honor, an art museum housing an impressive collection of European paintings and sculptures. For lunch, enjoy Italian cuisine at Delfina Restaurant.

Spend your evening exploring the vibrant neighborhood of Haight-Ashbury (Haight-Ashbury). This area is known for its eclectic shops and historic significance in counterculture movements. Dine at Nopa for a delightful dinner experience.

Begin your day with a visit to the beautiful parklands of Presidio. Enjoy hiking trails with stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge.

Head over to North Beach (North Beach) for lunch at Tony's Pizza Napoletana (Tony's Pizza Napoletana). Afterward, explore this historic Italian neighborhood known as 'Little Italy.' Don't miss visiting Coit Tower (Coit Tower) nearby.

In the evening , take some time exploring Ghirardelli Square (Ghirardelli Square), home not only famous chocolate but also unique shops restaurants . End day delicious meal House Prime Rib (House Prime Rib).

Start your morning with a visit to Crissy Field. This former airfield turned park offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and is perfect for a leisurely walk or picnic.

Head to the Ferry Building for lunch. This historic building houses a vibrant marketplace with local vendors. Enjoy a delicious meal at Boulevard, known for its farm-to-table cuisine.

Spend your evening at Embarcadero, a bustling waterfront area with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the Bay Bridge. Dine at Foreign Cinema, where you can enjoy dinner while watching classic films projected on the wall.

Depart from San Francisco early in the morning and drive towards Yosemite National Park. Enjoy the scenic drive through California's beautiful landscapes.

Arrive at Yosemite and start exploring its natural wonders. Visit Yosemite Valley, where you can see iconic landmarks like El Capitan and Half Dome. Have lunch at one of the park's picnic areas or grab a bite at a nearby café.

Settle into your accommodation within or near Yosemite National Park. For dinner, enjoy a meal at one of the park's lodges or nearby restaurants, such as The Ahwahnee Dining Room.

Begin your day with a hike to Vernal Fall. This moderate hike offers breathtaking views of the waterfall and surrounding nature.

After your hike, head to Glacier Point for panoramic views of Yosemite Valley, Half Dome, and the High Sierra peaks. Have lunch at Glacier Point Snack Stand while enjoying the stunning scenery.

Return to your accommodation and relax after an adventurous day. For dinner, dine at one of Yosemite's dining options or explore nearby towns like Mariposa for more restaurant choices.

Depart from Yosemite early in the morning and begin your journey towards Yellowstone National Park. Enjoy the scenic drive through various landscapes as you make your way north.

Stop for lunch along the way in one of the charming towns you'll pass through, such as Twin Falls in Idaho. Continue driving towards Yellowstone after your break.

Arrive near Yellowstone National Park by evening and check into your accommodation. Rest up for an exciting day of exploration ahead.

Start your day with a visit to the iconic Old Faithful geyser. Witness the geyser's spectacular eruption, which occurs approximately every 90 minutes. The nearby Old Faithful Visitor Education Center provides fascinating insights into the geothermal features of Yellowstone.

Head to the Grand Prismatic Spring, one of Yellowstone's most colorful and largest hot springs. Take a walk on the boardwalks around the spring to get different perspectives of its vibrant colors. For lunch, enjoy a meal at The Old Grind, known for its hearty sandwiches and coffee.

In the evening, explore the Norris Geyser Basin, one of the hottest and most dynamic areas in Yellowstone. The basin features numerous geysers, hot springs, and fumaroles. Afterward, dine at The Raven Bistro, offering a diverse menu with locally sourced ingredients.

Begin your day with a drive through Lamar Valley, often referred to as 'America's Serengeti' due to its abundant wildlife. Keep an eye out for bison, elk, wolves, and bears as you explore this picturesque valley.

Visit Mammoth Hot Springs Terraces in the afternoon. These unique limestone terraces are formed by hot water from underground springs. Enjoy lunch at Bear's Paw Bakery, known for its delicious pastries and sandwiches.

End your day with a visit to Tower Fall, one of Yellowstone's most beautiful waterfalls. The short hike to the viewpoint offers stunning views of the waterfall cascading down into Tower Creek Canyon. For dinner, head to Evil Dave's Grill for a memorable dining experience.

Start your morning with a visit to the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone. Take in breathtaking views from various lookout points such as Artist Point and Lookout Point.

After exploring the canyon, head to Yellowstone Lake for some relaxation by its serene waters. Have lunch at Patricia Street Deli, offering fresh sandwiches perfect for a picnic by the lake.

In the evening , take leisurely stroll along shores Lake enjoy tranquility surroundings . Dine Tekarra Restaurant Cabins (Tekarra Restaurant & Cabins) known cozy atmosphere delicious cuisine .

Begin your day exploring West Thumb Geyser Basin located shores Lake . This area features numerous geysers hot springs including famous Fishing Cone .

Visit Mud Volcano area afternoon see bubbling mud pots fumaroles . Have lunch Sunhouse Cafe (Sunhouse Cafe) known healthy options scenic views .

End day soaking Boiling River natural hot spring located near Mammoth Hot Springs relax after adventurous days exploring park dine Fiddle River Restaurant (Fiddle River Restaurant) .

Start your morning with a visit to the Lamar Valley, often referred to as the 'Serengeti of North America' due to its abundant wildlife. This is one of the best places in Yellowstone to spot bison, elk, wolves, and bears. Early morning is the best time for wildlife viewing.

After a morning of wildlife spotting, head to the Yellowstone River Picnic Area for a relaxing lunch. Enjoy a picnic by the river and take in the beautiful surroundings. After lunch, explore the nearby hiking trails or simply relax by the water.

In the evening, visit Hayden Valley for more wildlife viewing opportunities. This valley is another prime location for spotting animals and offers stunning views of the landscape. For dinner, enjoy a meal at Syrahs of Jasper, known for its delicious cuisine and cozy atmosphere.

Spend your final morning in Yellowstone with a visit to Mammoth Hot Springs. These unique terraces are formed by hot water from underground springs and offer a fascinating glimpse into the geothermal activity of the park.

After exploring Mammoth Hot Springs, head to Bear's Paw Bakery for a delicious lunch before you begin your journey back home. Enjoy their fresh pastries and sandwiches as you reflect on your incredible trip.

As you make your way out of Yellowstone National Park, take one last scenic drive through the park's beautiful landscapes. Stop at any remaining viewpoints or attractions that you may have missed earlier in your trip. End your day with dinner at Tekarra Restaurant & Cabins, offering a cozy atmosphere and delicious cuisine.