Fun Itinerary for: Gristwoods & Sciortinos
West Coast Adventure Cont...
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Itinerary made / last updated: 2026-04-26
Day 1
MORNING:
Saturday, 6/6
- Pine Street Market
- Columbia River Gorge
- Multnomah Falls
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AFTERNOON:
- Via Delizia
- Washington Park
- Rose Test Garden
- Japanese Garden
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EVENING:
- PLS on Sixth
- Keller Auditorium
- Mamma Mia
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NIGHT:
- Good Night
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DAY 1 Details
MORNING:
Pine Street Eats & Gorge Peaks
Good morning, Portland! We’re starting the day with a short walk to Pine Street Market for breakfast—the best part is we can all grab whatever catches our eye. Afterward, we’ll head back to grab Koa and the car for a trip to the Columbia River Gorge. We’ll be stopping at Multnomah Falls and any other photo-worthy spots we find along the scenic route!
Helpful Links
• Pine Street Market
• Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
• Multnomah Falls
Notes
* Pine Street Market location: 126 SW 2nd Ave
* Multnomah Falls is accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway and Interstate 84 and takes approximately 40 minutes from the hotel. We have a timed use permit for the falls from 11am to 12pm.
Good morning, Portland! We’re starting the day with a short walk to Pine Street Market for breakfast—the best part is we can all grab whatever catches our eye. Afterward, we’ll head back to grab Koa and the car for a trip to the Columbia River Gorge. We’ll be stopping at Multnomah Falls and any other photo-worthy spots we find along the scenic route!
Helpful Links
• Pine Street Market
• Columbia River Gorge National Scenic Area
• Multnomah Falls
Notes
* Pine Street Market location: 126 SW 2nd Ave
* Multnomah Falls is accessible from the Historic Columbia River Highway and Interstate 84 and takes approximately 40 minutes from the hotel. We have a timed use permit for the falls from 11am to 12pm.
AFTERNOON:
Paninis and Pagodas
After our memorable drive through the Columbia River Gorge and the breathtaking views of Multnomah Falls, we’re heading back to Portland. Once Koa is settled at the hotel, we’ll make our way toward Washington Park, stopping at Via Delizia for a panini on the way. We have a 2:30 PM reservation for the Japanese Garden; depending on when we arrive, we’ll either start there or wander through the International Rose Test Garden first. Once we’ve seen both, the rest of the afternoon is ours.
Helpful Links
• Via Delizia on Broadway
• Washington Park
• Japanese Garden
Notes
* Via Delizia location: 1105 NW Marshall St (5-minute drive from hotel)
* Parking in Washington Park is $2.40/hour or $9.60/day.
* Japanese Garden location: 611 SW Kingston Ave (11-minute drive from Via Delizia). Tickets are $23/adult & $20/senior.
* We need to be back at the hotel by 5:00 so that we can get changed and ready for our 6:00 dinner reservation. Whatever we don't get to, if we want to come back, tomorrow's trolley makes stop within Washington Park.
After our memorable drive through the Columbia River Gorge and the breathtaking views of Multnomah Falls, we’re heading back to Portland. Once Koa is settled at the hotel, we’ll make our way toward Washington Park, stopping at Via Delizia for a panini on the way. We have a 2:30 PM reservation for the Japanese Garden; depending on when we arrive, we’ll either start there or wander through the International Rose Test Garden first. Once we’ve seen both, the rest of the afternoon is ours.
Helpful Links
• Via Delizia on Broadway
• Washington Park
• Japanese Garden
Notes
* Via Delizia location: 1105 NW Marshall St (5-minute drive from hotel)
* Parking in Washington Park is $2.40/hour or $9.60/day.
* Japanese Garden location: 611 SW Kingston Ave (11-minute drive from Via Delizia). Tickets are $23/adult & $20/senior.
* We need to be back at the hotel by 5:00 so that we can get changed and ready for our 6:00 dinner reservation. Whatever we don't get to, if we want to come back, tomorrow's trolley makes stop within Washington Park.
EVENING:
Soul Food & Showtunes
We’re out the door by 5:40 PM to make our 6:00 reservation at PLS on Sixth. This neighborhood gem serves up some soul-infused comfort food, famous burgers, and those legendary boozy shakes. After dinner, it’s a short trip to the Keller Auditorium, where we’ll get comfortable for an amazing 2.5-hour performance of Mamma Mia!
Helpful Links
• PLS on Sixth
• Mamma Mia @ Keller
Notes
* PLS on Sixth location: 515 SW Clay St, which is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. I suggest we park for the auditorium and then walk to PLS on Sixth and then back to Keller. It is only a 5-minute walk each way.
* Keller Auditorium location: 222 SW Clay St. There is no parking at the auditorium, but there are several options close by (for a fee). It is recommended to find street parking if possible, but if we park in the garage, it is advised to park as close to the exit as possible.
* Keller Auditorium doors open at 6:30 and they sell drinks (and small snacks). The show starts at 7:30pm and is 2 hours, with a half-hour intermission.
We’re out the door by 5:40 PM to make our 6:00 reservation at PLS on Sixth. This neighborhood gem serves up some soul-infused comfort food, famous burgers, and those legendary boozy shakes. After dinner, it’s a short trip to the Keller Auditorium, where we’ll get comfortable for an amazing 2.5-hour performance of Mamma Mia!
Helpful Links
• PLS on Sixth
• Mamma Mia @ Keller
Notes
* PLS on Sixth location: 515 SW Clay St, which is a 10-minute drive from the hotel. I suggest we park for the auditorium and then walk to PLS on Sixth and then back to Keller. It is only a 5-minute walk each way.
* Keller Auditorium location: 222 SW Clay St. There is no parking at the auditorium, but there are several options close by (for a fee). It is recommended to find street parking if possible, but if we park in the garage, it is advised to park as close to the exit as possible.
* Keller Auditorium doors open at 6:30 and they sell drinks (and small snacks). The show starts at 7:30pm and is 2 hours, with a half-hour intermission.
NIGHT:
Dreaming of Day Two, Portland
It’s been a long, incredible day, and it’s time to head back to the hotel to recharge. Let’s get some rest—we’ve got another day of adventure starting bright and early tomorrow!
It’s been a long, incredible day, and it’s time to head back to the hotel to recharge. Let’s get some rest—we’ve got another day of adventure starting bright and early tomorrow!
Day 2
MORNING:
Sunday, 6/7
- Pip's Original
- Hop On, Hop Off
- Leisure
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AFTERNOON:
- Trolley Tour Continues
- Powell's Books
- Here or There and Everywhere
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EVENING:
- Trendy Third
- Fireside Restaurant
- Nob Hill
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NIGHT:
- Raven's Manor
- Sleep Tight
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DAY 2 Details
MORNING:
Treats, Trolleys, and Portland Beats
Wakey wakey, shakey bakey! We’re heading out to Pip’s Original for a unique breakfast of doughnuts and chai. Once we’ve had that sugary fuel-up, we’re off to the trolley station for a hop-on/hop-off adventure to see the best of Portland at our own pace.
Helpful Links
• Pip's Original
• Trolley Sightseeing Tour
• Trolley Map & Times
Notes
* Pips Original location: 4759 NE Fremont St--opens @ 8am. It is a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
* Trolley Station location (Gray Line): 846 SW Park Ave. The station is a 15-minute drive back from Pip's Original and is only a 0.5-mile from our hotel. So, we can park the car where we do for the hotel and then just walk the 12 minutes to the station if we so choose (or pay to park at the SmartPark garage near the station).
Wakey wakey, shakey bakey! We’re heading out to Pip’s Original for a unique breakfast of doughnuts and chai. Once we’ve had that sugary fuel-up, we’re off to the trolley station for a hop-on/hop-off adventure to see the best of Portland at our own pace.
Helpful Links
• Pip's Original
• Trolley Sightseeing Tour
• Trolley Map & Times
Notes
* Pips Original location: 4759 NE Fremont St--opens @ 8am. It is a 15-minute drive from the hotel.
* Trolley Station location (Gray Line): 846 SW Park Ave. The station is a 15-minute drive back from Pip's Original and is only a 0.5-mile from our hotel. So, we can park the car where we do for the hotel and then just walk the 12 minutes to the station if we so choose (or pay to park at the SmartPark garage near the station).
AFTERNOON:
The Afternoon Trolley Loop
Our trolley adventure rolls right into the afternoon, stopping at highlights like Trendy Third (NW 23rd), Powell's Books, Old Town, and Riverplace. Where we choose to hop off is entirely up to us. As long as we’re back at the station by 4:00 PM to take care of Koa and freshen up for the evening, the city is ours to explore.
Helpful Links
• Trendy Third
• Powell's Books
• Old Town
• Riverplace Guide
Notes
* Stop # for NW23rd: 6. This area, aka Nob Hill, has many trendy shops and eateries. It is also pet friendly, so it is my suggestion that we go here, with Koa, for our evening to walk around and eat dinner.
* Stop # for Powell's Books: 7. This is the largest independent bookstore in the world.
* Stop # for Old Town: 9. This area does not have the greatest reputation, so it may be just a "looky loo."
* Stop # for Riverplace: 10. There is not much to do in this area, but the river walk is nice and there are some cute, little shops.
Our trolley adventure rolls right into the afternoon, stopping at highlights like Trendy Third (NW 23rd), Powell's Books, Old Town, and Riverplace. Where we choose to hop off is entirely up to us. As long as we’re back at the station by 4:00 PM to take care of Koa and freshen up for the evening, the city is ours to explore.
Helpful Links
• Trendy Third
• Powell's Books
• Old Town
• Riverplace Guide
Notes
* Stop # for NW23rd: 6. This area, aka Nob Hill, has many trendy shops and eateries. It is also pet friendly, so it is my suggestion that we go here, with Koa, for our evening to walk around and eat dinner.
* Stop # for Powell's Books: 7. This is the largest independent bookstore in the world.
* Stop # for Old Town: 9. This area does not have the greatest reputation, so it may be just a "looky loo."
* Stop # for Riverplace: 10. There is not much to do in this area, but the river walk is nice and there are some cute, little shops.
EVENING:
Nob Hill: Shop, Sip, Repeat
It’s time to head over to NW 23rd—better known as Trendy Third or Nob Hill—for some evening exploration. We have 7:00 PM dinner reservations on the heated, pet-friendly patio at Fireside, which works out perfectly since Koa can join us. The plan is simple: explore and shop, stop for dinner, then explore and shop some more. We’ll stay out as long as the mood strikes!
Helpful Links
• NW 23rd
• Fireside Restaurant
Notes
* Fireside Restaurant location: 801 NW 23rd Ave. This restaurant is supposed to have a pet-friendly patio, which is what we have reserved, but we need to call ahead to make sure.
* Like the rest of Portland businesses, there is no on site parking so we will have to find a parking garage.
It’s time to head over to NW 23rd—better known as Trendy Third or Nob Hill—for some evening exploration. We have 7:00 PM dinner reservations on the heated, pet-friendly patio at Fireside, which works out perfectly since Koa can join us. The plan is simple: explore and shop, stop for dinner, then explore and shop some more. We’ll stay out as long as the mood strikes!
Helpful Links
• NW 23rd
• Fireside Restaurant
Notes
* Fireside Restaurant location: 801 NW 23rd Ave. This restaurant is supposed to have a pet-friendly patio, which is what we have reserved, but we need to call ahead to make sure.
* Like the rest of Portland businesses
NIGHT:
A Spooky Send-Off
With an 8:00 AM departure tomorrow, we should probably keep things relatively early. However, I suggest we drop off the car and Koa, then head out for a quick 15-minute stroll to Raven’s Manor. It’s a haunted-themed bar that looks incredibly cool, and it would be the perfect final 'Portland experience' before we head back to the hotel to sleep.
Helpful Link
• Raven's Manor
Note
* Raven's Manor location: 235 SW 1st Ave.
With an 8:00 AM departure tomorrow, we should probably keep things relatively early. However, I suggest we drop off the car and Koa, then head out for a quick 15-minute stroll to Raven’s Manor. It’s a haunted-themed bar that looks incredibly cool, and it would be the perfect final 'Portland experience' before we head back to the hotel to sleep.
Helpful Link
• Raven's Manor
Note
* Raven's Manor location: 235 SW 1st Ave.
Day 3
MORNING:
Monday, 6/8
- On the Road Again
- California
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AFTERNOON:
- Abacela Winery
- Jedidiah Smith Visitor Center
- Stout Grove
- Crescent City Beach Motel
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EVENING:
- 3rd Street Shops
- SeaQuake Brewing
- Battery Point
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NIGHT:
- Hotel Night
DAY 3 Details
MORNING:
Heading for the Giants
It’s time to hit the road once again. Whether we grab breakfast at the hotel or find something on the way, we’re aiming to be moving by 8:00 AM. We’re bound for Crescent City, and while it’s a six-hour drive on paper, we’re planning to take our time winding through the Redwoods with plenty of stops along the way.
It’s time to hit the road once again. Whether we grab breakfast at the hotel or find something on the way, we’re aiming to be moving by 8:00 AM. We’re bound for Crescent City, and while it’s a six-hour drive on paper, we’re planning to take our time winding through the Redwoods with plenty of stops along the way.
AFTERNOON:
Wine, Woods, and the West Coast
At the halfway point of our drive, we’re stopping at Abacela Winery for lunch and a tasting on their pet-friendly patio. Then, we’ll head into the heart of the Redwoods to see Stout Grove and hit the Jedediah Smith Visitor Center. Finally, we’ll make our way to the Crescent City Beach Motel to relax and unpack.
Helpful Links
• Abacela Winery
• Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park
• Crescent City Beach Motel
Notes
* Abacela Winery location: 12500 Lookingglass Rd. The winery opens at 11am. They have a hummus plate, cheese plate, and/or charcuterie plate available.
* We can, and should, stop at places of interest throughout the redwoods as we make our way to the motel.
At the halfway point of our drive, we’re stopping at Abacela Winery for lunch and a tasting on their pet-friendly patio. Then, we’ll head into the heart of the Redwoods to see Stout Grove and hit the Jedediah Smith Visitor Center. Finally, we’ll make our way to the Crescent City Beach Motel to relax and unpack.
Helpful Links
• Abacela Winery
• Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park
• Crescent City Beach Motel
Notes
* Abacela Winery location: 12500 Lookingglass Rd. The winery opens at 11am. They have a hummus plate, cheese plate, and/or charcuterie plate available.
* We can, and should, stop at places of interest throughout the redwoods as we make our way to the motel.
EVENING:
Downtown Strolls and Shoreline Views
After getting settled at the motel, let's wander down 3rd Street to check out the local shops. We’ll grab dinner at SeaQuake Brewing, where the patio gives us the option to keep Koa with us. Afterward, we can drive over to the Battery Point area for a scenic stroll and some sunset pictures to wrap up the day.
Helpful Links
• SeaQuake Brewing
• Battery Point Lighthouse
Notes
* SeaQuake Brewing location: 400 Front St. They are open until 8 and in walking distance to shops.
* There is a Battery Point parking area at 235 Lighthouse Way. Bring a sweater/jacket. It gets super chilly by the ocean.
After getting settled at the motel, let's wander down 3rd Street to check out the local shops. We’ll grab dinner at SeaQuake Brewing, where the patio gives us the option to keep Koa with us. Afterward, we can drive over to the Battery Point area for a scenic stroll and some sunset pictures to wrap up the day.
Helpful Links
• SeaQuake Brewing
• Battery Point Lighthouse
Notes
* SeaQuake Brewing location: 400 Front St. They are open until 8 and in walking distance to shops.
* There is a Battery Point parking area at 235 Lighthouse Way. Bring a sweater/jacket. It gets super chilly by the ocean.
NIGHT:
Rest, Recharge, and Redwoods
It’s time to call it a night and head back to the motel to get some rest. We have another incredible day of exploring the Redwoods ahead of us! To stay on track, we need to be fueled up and ready to move by 8:45 AM—which means leaving for breakfast around 7:45 AM.
Note
* The motel does not offer a traditional hot breakfast; instead, it's fruit and coffee, etc.
It’s time to call it a night and head back to the motel to get some rest. We have another incredible day of exploring the Redwoods ahead of us! To stay on track, we need to be fueled up and ready to move by 8:45 AM—which means leaving for breakfast around 7:45 AM.
Note
* The motel does not offer a traditional hot breakfast; instead, it's fruit and coffee, etc.
Day 4
MORNING:
Tuesday, 6/9
- Good Harvest Cafe
- Trees of Mystery
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AFTERNOON:
- Trees of Mystery Adventure Continues
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EVENING:
- Elk Valley Casino
- Warrior Bar & Grill
- Bingo
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NIGHT:
- Last (Bingo) Call
- Beauty Rest
DAY 4 Details
MORNING:
High-Altitude Redwoods
Rise and shine! We’re heading out to Good Harvest Cafe for a hearty breakfast before experiencing the Redwoods from a whole new perspective. Today’s adventure takes us to Trees of Mystery, where we’ll ride the SkyTrail, navigate the canopy on aerial suspension bridges, and visit the massive Brotherhood Tree. Make sure phones are fully charged—we're going to want every bit of battery for these photo ops!
Helpful Links
• Good Harvest Cafe
• Trees of Mystery
Notes
* Good Harvest Cafe location: 575 US-101 (Opens at 7:30)
* Trees of Mystery location: 15500 US-101, which is a 20-minute drive (Open from 9 to 4). The admission cost is $30/adult & $25/senior, and includes everything.
* Trees of Mystery is pet friendly; however, pets are not allowed on the canopy tour.
Rise and shine! We’re heading out to Good Harvest Cafe for a hearty breakfast before experiencing the Redwoods from a whole new perspective. Today’s adventure takes us to Trees of Mystery, where we’ll ride the SkyTrail, navigate the canopy on aerial suspension bridges, and visit the massive Brotherhood Tree. Make sure phones are fully charged—we're going to want every bit of battery for these photo ops!
Helpful Links
• Good Harvest Cafe
• Trees of Mystery
Notes
* Good Harvest Cafe location: 575 US-101 (Opens at 7:30)
* Trees of Mystery location: 15500 US-101, which is a 20-minute drive (Open from 9 to 4). The admission cost is $30/adult & $25/senior, and includes everything.
* Trees of Mystery is pet friendly; however, pets are not allowed on the canopy tour.
AFTERNOON:
Afternoon Among the Giants
Our adventure at Trees of Mystery continues well into the afternoon. Whether we want to hike every trail or take a few extra loops on the SkyTrail, the pace is entirely up to us. We just need to make our way back to the motel by 2:30 PM to get cleaned up and ready for our evening plans.
Notes
* Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; layers are always recommended because they are located on the coast near the ocean.
* There is a restaurant on site, but it will not be open when we are there. We should think about picking up snacks at a gas station along the way. There is a gift shop that sells ice cream, fudge, and things of that nature. No hangry people allowed!!!
Our adventure at Trees of Mystery continues well into the afternoon. Whether we want to hike every trail or take a few extra loops on the SkyTrail, the pace is entirely up to us. We just need to make our way back to the motel by 2:30 PM to get cleaned up and ready for our evening plans.
Notes
* Wear comfortable clothes and shoes; layers are always recommended because they are located on the coast near the ocean.
* There is a restaurant on site, but it will not be open when we are there. We should think about picking up snacks at a gas station along the way. There is a gift shop that sells ice cream, fudge, and things of that nature. No hangry people allowed!!!
EVENING:
Warrior Eats & Lucky Streaks
Once we're ready, we’ll head over to the Elk Valley Casino for dinner at the Warrior Bar & Grill. hen, it’s bingo time! If we’re planning to hit the warm-up rounds, we’ll need to be fueled up and at the table with our cards ready by 5:30 PM. Otherwise, the main games kick off at 6:00 PM. Fingers crossed for some lucky numbers tonight!
Helpful Link
• Elk Valley Casino
Note
* The casino is just a 2-minute drive.
Once we're ready, we’ll head over to the Elk Valley Casino for dinner at the Warrior Bar & Grill. hen, it’s bingo time! If we’re planning to hit the warm-up rounds, we’ll need to be fueled up and at the table with our cards ready by 5:30 PM. Otherwise, the main games kick off at 6:00 PM. Fingers crossed for some lucky numbers tonight!
Helpful Link
• Elk Valley Casino
Note
* The casino is just a 2-minute drive.
NIGHT:
Cashing Out in Crescent City
After we wrap up at bingo (hopefully with some extra cash in hand), we can play a few slot machines or just call it a night. We have a 6.5-hour drive ahead of us tomorrow, so the main goal is getting back to the motel for some well-deserved rest.
After we wrap up at bingo (hopefully with some extra cash in hand), we can play a few slot machines or just call it a night. We have a 6.5-hour drive ahead of us tomorrow, so the main goal is getting back to the motel for some well-deserved rest.
Day 5
MORNING:
Wednesday, 6/10
- Paragon Coffeehouse
- Founders Grove
- Highway 101
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AFTERNOON:
- Marina Motel
- Ghirardelli Square
- Fisherman's Wharf
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EVENING:
- Fisherman's Wharf Continued
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NIGHT:
- Night Stroll
- Sleep
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DAY 5 Details
MORNING:
The Road to San Francisco
Time to roll! Let’s get moving by 7:30ish and find some breakfast on the road. The one non-negotiable is a coffee stop at Paragon Coffeehouse before we say goodbye to Crescent City. Our 6.5-hour journey to San Francisco features a stop at Founders Grove to see the giants one last time. Just relax, enjoy the music, and take in the beautiful 101 scenery.
Helpful Links
• Paragon Coffeehouse
• Founders Grove
Notes
* Paragon Coffeehouse location: 783 3rd St Suite C (5-minute drive from motel).
* Stove Grove location: Dyerville Loop Road, Weott, CA (approximately 2.5 hours from Crescent City).
Time to roll! Let’s get moving by 7:30ish and find some breakfast on the road. The one non-negotiable is a coffee stop at Paragon Coffeehouse before we say goodbye to Crescent City. Our 6.5-hour journey to San Francisco features a stop at Founders Grove to see the giants one last time. Just relax, enjoy the music, and take in the beautiful 101 scenery.
Helpful Links
• Paragon Coffeehouse
• Founders Grove
Notes
* Paragon Coffeehouse location: 783 3rd St Suite C (5-minute drive from motel).
* Stove Grove location: Dyerville Loop Road, Weott, CA (approximately 2.5 hours from Crescent City).
AFTERNOON:
The City by the Bay Arriva
We’ve made it to the city! First stop: the Marina Motel to get settled and unload the car. Then, it's time to explore. We’re hitting Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square (we can bring Koa along so he can get some fresh air and a good walk after the long drive). Let's get out there and enjoy the San Francisco vibe!
Helpful Links
• Marina Motel
• Ghirardelli Square
• Fisherman's Wharf
Notes
* Marina Motel location: 2576 Lombard St. When arriving, the website says to park in any open garage bay and then check in.
* Ghirardelli Square location: 900 North Point St F301
* Fisherman's Wharf location: Jefferson St & Mason St (Pier 39)
* We can park in the middle of Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf and walk to both at the AirGarage on 430 Beach St.
* Some, and by some I mean two, of us will probably need to bring (or buy) a hoodie.
We’ve made it to the city! First stop: the Marina Motel to get settled and unload the car. Then, it's time to explore. We’re hitting Fisherman’s Wharf and Ghirardelli Square (we can bring Koa along so he can get some fresh air and a good walk after the long drive). Let's get out there and enjoy the San Francisco vibe!
Helpful Links
• Marina Motel
• Ghirardelli Square
• Fisherman's Wharf
Notes
* Marina Motel location: 2576 Lombard St. When arriving, the website says to park in any open garage bay and then check in.
* Ghirardelli Square location: 900 North Point St F301
* Fisherman's Wharf location: Jefferson St & Mason St (Pier 39)
* We can park in the middle of Ghirardelli Square and Fisherman's Wharf and walk to both at the AirGarage on 430 Beach St.
* Some, and by some I mean two, of us will probably need to bring (or buy
EVENING:
Wharf Wandering & Waterfront Bites
Our visit to Fisherman’s Wharf will carry us into the evening as we wander through the shops and sample the local flavors. We can take our time heading back to the car and returning to the motel whenever we're ready. However, we’ll want to get plenty of shut-eye tonight so we’re refreshed and ready for our early morning tour.
Our visit to Fisherman’s Wharf will carry us into the evening as we wander through the shops and sample the local flavors. We can take our time heading back to the car and returning to the motel whenever we're ready. However, we’ll want to get plenty of shut-eye tonight so we’re refreshed and ready for our early morning tour.
NIGHT:
Presidio Moonlit Stroll
Once we’re back at the motel, some (or all) of us might choose to take a nightly stroll through the Presidio, which is just two blocks away. It’s a perfect spot for stunning nighttime views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Palace of Fine Arts. After that, it’s off to bed so we can be up and at 'em for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow!
Helpful Link
• Presidio Park
Note
* The entrance to the park for us is at Chestnut and Lyon Street.
Once we’re back at the motel, some (or all) of us might choose to take a nightly stroll through the Presidio, which is just two blocks away. It’s a perfect spot for stunning nighttime views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the Palace of Fine Arts. After that, it’s off to bed so we can be up and at 'em for a full day of sightseeing tomorrow!
Helpful Link
• Presidio Park
Note
* The entrance to the park for us is at Chestnut and Lyon Street.
Day 6
MORNING:
Thursday, 6/11
- Up & At 'Em
- Noah's Bagels
- Alcatraz
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AFTERNOON:
- Big Bus Tours
- City Sightseeing
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EVENING:
- Unscripted
- Leisure
- Spontaneous
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NIGHT:
- Recharging the Batteries
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DAY 6 Details
MORNING:
The Rock: Morning Edition
Early start today! We’re heading out around 7:30 AM to grab breakfast at Noah’s NY Bagels before making our way to the waterfront. We need to be at Pier 33 in time for our 8:40 AM ferry to Alcatraz. It’s a roughly 2.5-hour tour, so we’ll have plenty of time to take in the history and the views of the bay.
Helpful Links
• Noah's NY Bagel
• Alcatraz Tour
• Alcatraz Island
Notes
* Noah's NY Bagel location: 2075 Chestnut St (open at 5:30). There are three locations, so make sure we choose the right one when getting directions.
* Alcatraz Landing (Pier 33) location. The weather on Alcatraz is unpredictable, so dress in layers…bring along a light jacket or sweater. Also, wear comfortable shoes.
* If we time our departure from Alcatraz Island right, we can get on the Big Bus Tours (Hop On/Hop Off) at Pier 35 when it makes its 11:45 stop there. Give 15 minutes for ride back and 5-minute walk to Pier. So, try to leave the island by 10:50am (if not, no big deal).
Early start today! We’re heading out around 7:30 AM to grab breakfast at Noah’s NY Bagels before making our way to the waterfront. We need to be at Pier 33 in time for our 8:40 AM ferry to Alcatraz. It’s a roughly 2.5-hour tour, so we’ll have plenty of time to take in the history and the views of the bay.
Helpful Links
• Noah's NY Bagel
• Alcatraz Tour
• Alcatraz Island
Notes
* Noah's NY Bagel location: 2075 Chestnut St (open at 5:30). There are three locations, so make sure we choose the right one when getting directions.
* Alcatraz Landing (Pier 33) location. The weather on Alcatraz is unpredictable, so dress in layers…bring along a light jacket or sweater. Also, wear comfortable shoes.
* If we time our departure from Alcatraz Island right, we can get on the Big Bus Tours (Hop On/Hop Off) at Pier 35 when it makes its 11:45 stop there. Give 15 minutes for ride back and 5-minute walk to Pier. So, try to leave the island by 10:50am (if not, no big deal).
AFTERNOON:
The Big Bus City Loop
For the afternoon, we’re switching gears to a Big Bus Tours hop-on/hop-off adventure. The best part? We can leave the car exactly where it is and take a quick stroll from Pier 33 to Pier 35 to catch the bus around 11:45 AM. From there, we can just sit back and take in the city, hopping off whenever something catches our eye. We’ll just need to make sure we’re on the bus before the final loop so we’re back to the car by 5:45 PM.
Helpful Link
• Big Bus Tours
For the afternoon, we’re switching gears to a Big Bus Tours hop-on/hop-off adventure. The best part? We can leave the car exactly where it is and take a quick stroll from Pier 33 to Pier 35 to catch the bus around 11:45 AM. From there, we can just sit back and take in the city, hopping off whenever something catches our eye. We’ll just need to make sure we’re on the bus before the final loop so we’re back to the car by 5:45 PM.
Helpful Link
• Big Bus Tours
EVENING:
City Freedom & Evening Breezes
Once we wrap up the bus tour at Pier 35, we’ll grab the car and head back to the motel to look after Koa. From there, the evening is entirely ours—maybe a sunset stroll in Golden Gate Park, more shopping at the Wharf, another quiet walk through the Presidio, or find a new corner of the city to discover, the choice is ours.
Once we wrap up the bus tour at Pier 35, we’ll grab the car and head back to the motel to look after Koa. From there, the evening is entirely ours—maybe a sunset stroll in Golden Gate Park, more shopping at the Wharf, another quiet walk through the Presidio, or find a new corner of the city to discover, the choice is ours.
NIGHT:
San Francisco: Mission Accomplished
We've covered a lot of ground in San Francisco and seen some unforgettable landmarks. Our full day of exploration is officially in the books, and it’s time for bed. We have the drive to LA ahead of us tomorrow—see you in the morning!
We've covered a lot of ground in San Francisco and seen some unforgettable landmarks. Our full day of exploration is officially in the books, and it’s time for bed. We have the drive to LA ahead of us tomorrow—see you in the morning!
Day 7
MORNING:
Friday, 6/12
- Interstate 5 Drive
- Anaheim
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AFTERNOON:
- Motel 6 Maingate
- Santa Monica Pier
- Santa Monica Place
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EVENING:
Dinner
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NIGHT:
- Back to Hotel
- Lights Out
DAY 7 Details
MORNING:
From the Bay to the Magic Kingdom
Time to pack the car and start our journey toward Anaheim! We’ll be checking out and heading out by 7:30ish, keeping things simple with a quick breakfast on the road. It’s roughly a 6.5-hour drive down to Southern California, marking the beginning of the end of our amazing trip. Sit back, relax, and let the music take us through the miles.
Time to pack the car and start our journey toward Anaheim! We’ll be checking out and heading out by 7:30ish, keeping things simple with a quick breakfast on the road. It’s roughly a 6.5-hour drive down to Southern California, marking the beginning of the end of our amazing trip. Sit back, relax, and let the music take us through the miles.
AFTERNOON:
Pier Views & Open-Air Venues
After checking into the hotel and getting settled, we’re heading straight to the coast to soak up the sights and sounds of the Santa Monica Pier. Once we’ve enjoyed the ocean breeze and the iconic boardwalk atmosphere, we’ll make our way to Santa Monica Place, an impressive open-air mall in downtown Santa Monica featuring three levels of upscale shops and dining. It's a great way to spend our first afternoon in Southern California.
Helpful Links
• Motel 6 Anaheim
• Santa Monica Pier
• Santa Monica Place
Notes
* Motel 6 Anaheim location: 100 Disney Way (15-minute walk to Downtown Disney).
* Santa Monica Pier location: 200 Santa Monica Pier
* Santa Monica Place location: 395 Santa Monica Pl
* Both the pier and the place are outdoor and there are plenty of patio dining options at the mall, so we can bring Koa or have him stay at the hotel.
After checking into the hotel and getting settled, we’re heading straight to the coast to soak up the sights and sounds of the Santa Monica Pier. Once we’ve enjoyed the ocean breeze and the iconic boardwalk atmosphere, we’ll make our way to Santa Monica Place, an impressive open-air mall in downtown Santa Monica featuring three levels of upscale shops and dining. It's a great way to spend our first afternoon in Southern California.
Helpful Links
• Motel 6 Anaheim
• Santa Monica Pier
• Santa Monica Place
Notes
* Motel 6 Anaheim location: 100 Disney Way (15-minute walk to Downtown Disney).
* Santa Monica Pier location: 200 Santa Monica Pier
* Santa Monica Place location: 395 Santa Monica Pl
* Both the pier and the place are outdoor and there are plenty of patio dining options at the mall, so we can bring Koa or have him stay at the hotel.
EVENING:
Santa Monica Dining
We’ll be wrapping up our day at Santa Monica Place for dinner. Since the center is packed with great choices, we can stay together or split up based on what everyone is in the mood for. It’s all about a relaxed evening with plenty of variety!
Helpful Link
• SM Place Dining Options
We’ll be wrapping up our day at Santa Monica Place for dinner. Since the center is packed with great choices, we can stay together or split up based on what everyone is in the mood for. It’s all about a relaxed evening with plenty of variety!
Helpful Link
• SM Place Dining Options
NIGHT:
Resting Up for the Last Hurrah
Lights out! Tomorrow is a full day of nonstop fun and plenty of walking, starting right from the morning. We’ll need all the energy we can get, so let’s get some rest now and prepare for an epic final day of the adventure.
Tomorrow
Saturday, January 13th: It's the ultimate grand finale! We’re spending the entire day at Disney's California Adventure Park, followed by an evening soaking up the atmosphere at Downtown Disney. This marks the end of our incredible West Coast journey. It’s back to reality on Sunday—what a whirlwind it’s been! Phew!
Note
* It's about a 5-hour drive home, so we can leave whenever we are all ready. The hotel check-out time is 11am.
Lights out! Tomorrow is a full day of nonstop fun and plenty of walking, starting right from the morning. We’ll need all the energy we can get, so let’s get some rest now and prepare for an epic final day of the adventure.
Tomorrow
Saturday, January 13th: It's the ultimate grand finale! We’re spending the entire day at Disney's California Adventure Park, followed by an evening soaking up the atmosphere at Downtown Disney. This marks the end of our incredible West Coast journey. It’s back to reality on Sunday—what a whirlwind it’s been! Phew!
Note
* It's about a 5-hour drive home, so we can leave whenever we are all ready. The hotel check-out time is 11am.
