Desert & Badlands 8-Day Adventure Itinerary

Start with a fresh cup of coffee and a light breakfast at Wagon Wheel Restaurant to fuel up for the day. Then, head out to the Painted Desert (Petrified Forest National Park) to witness the colorful badlands and the unique geology of the area.

For lunch, enjoy a picnic at the Puerco Pueblo, an ancient village site within the park. Afterward, visit the historic Painted Desert Inn to learn about the area's rich cultural and natural history.

Dine at The Turquoise Room for a taste of refined Southwest cuisine, featuring local ingredients and flavors. Reflect on the day as you enjoy the elegant ambiance and hospitality of this renowned restaurant.

Take a scenic drive to {adjacentCities[0]}, where you'll enjoy breakfast at Morning Glory Café, known for its fresh and organic offerings. After breakfast, explore the Walnut Canyon National Monument, home to ancient cliff dwellings and breathtaking canyon views.

For lunch, indulge in delicious sandwiches and pastries at Macy's European Coffeehouse & Bakery. Spend the rest of your afternoon strolling through the vibrant downtown area, visiting local shops and art galleries.

Return to Painted Desert for dinner at Boots & Saddle Bar and Grill, where you can enjoy a satisfying meal in a relaxed Western atmosphere, reminiscing about the day's discoveries.

Begin with breakfast at La Posada Hotel and Gardens, an elegant setting with a menu that reflects the heritage of the Southwest. Afterward, take a stroll through the Standing on the Corner Park, a tribute to the famous song "Take It Easy" by the Eagles.

Enjoy a casual lunch at Relic Road Brewing Company, where you can pair handcrafted beers with a variety of pub-style dishes. Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the nearby Homolovi State Park, with its ancient Puebloan ruins and wide-open spaces.

Return to Painted Desert for a relaxing evening and dinner at Badlands Saloon & Grille, where the rustic charm and hearty menu will provide the perfect end to your day.

Start your Badlands adventure with a breakfast at Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal with a view of the rugged landscape. After breakfast, take a morning drive through Badlands Loop State Scenic Byway, marveling at the otherworldly rock formations and the prairie stretching to the horizon.

For lunch, savor the flavors of the region at Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room, offering a variety of Western dishes. Spend your afternoon hiking through the Notch Trail or visiting the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to learn about the park's natural and cultural history.

As the sun sets, enjoy a drink at Badlands Saloon & Grille, reflecting on the day's adventures. Dine on hearty fare, and perhaps catch some live music as you soak in the atmosphere of this quintessentially Badlands establishment.

Fuel up for the day with a cowboy breakfast at Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room. Then, set out to hike the Door Trail, where you'll be greeted by expansive views and the chance to walk through a natural doorway in the rocks.

Take a break from the heat with lunch at Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant, where the cool interior and regional menu will provide a welcome respite. Afterward, visit the Fossil Exhibit Trail to see and touch ancient fossils in the park's largest display of such artifacts.

Enjoy a relaxing dinner at Cowboy's Buffet & Steak Room, where the Western ambiance and menu will transport you to a time when the Badlands were still wild and untamed.

Start your day with breakfast at Knuckle Saloon, a local favorite known for its hearty meals. Afterward, drive to {adjacentCities[0]} and visit Mount Rushmore, the iconic symbol of American democracy. Spend the morning exploring the monument and the nearby Crazy Horse Memorial.

For lunch, enjoy a meal at Dakotah Steakhouse, where the menu features a variety of dishes to satisfy any appetite. Afterward, return to the Badlands and spend the afternoon hiking a new trail or visiting one of the park's other points of interest.

Dine at Cedar Pass Lodge Restaurant, where the warm and inviting atmosphere is the perfect place to relax and reflect on the day's experiences. Enjoy a meal made with locally sourced ingredients as you reminisce about your visit to the Black Hills.

Enjoy breakfast at Wagon Wheel Restaurant, then take a drive to the nearby town of {adjacentCities[1]}. Visit the famous Wall Drug, known for its quirky attractions and Western hospitality. Afterward, pay your respects at the Wounded Knee Museum, learning about the history and culture of the Lakota people.

For lunch, stop at Boots & Saddle Bar and Grill for a satisfying meal in a classic Western setting. Spend the rest of your afternoon exploring the Badlands National Park, taking in the unique rock formations and the diverse wildlife that call the park home.

Conclude your trip with a farewell dinner at The Turquoise Room, where the elegant setting and innovative menu will provide a memorable dining experience. Raise a glass to the adventures you've had and the memories you've made in the beautiful Badlands.