Here’s the family-friendly round-trip itinerary from Salem, Oregon to San Francisco, California, including both budget and high-end options for every part of the trip, so you can tailor your experience based on your preferences and budget. I've included estimated prices for both budget and luxury experiences, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for you. Visit www.DiamondTravelAgent.com for a custom-tailored itinerary to fit your travel needs.
Day 1: Train from Salem to San Francisco (Approx. 17-18 hours)
- Departure from Salem: Start your journey by boarding the Amtrak Cascades from Salem to Emeryville, which takes about 17-18 hours (including a transfer at Portland and Sacramento). This scenic train ride offers stunning views of Oregon's countryside, the Cascade Mountains, and the California coast—perfect for kids to relax and enjoy the ever-changing landscapes.
- Train Amenities: Enjoy spacious seating, power outlets, and free Wi-Fi. The train has a Café Car for snacks and meals, and there’s plenty of room for children to stretch and move around.
In-Transit Activities for Kids
- Bring along travel-friendly activities for the kids, such as coloring books, board games, or movies to keep them entertained. There are also scenic viewing areas where the whole family can enjoy the passing landscapes.
Evening
- Dinner on the Train: Have dinner in the Café Car, where you can select from kid-friendly options like sandwiches, pasta, and snacks. Afterward, relax in your seat or take a walk around the train.
Arrival in San Francisco
- You’ll arrive in Emeryville (just outside San Francisco) in the evening. From here, take a short Amtrak Thruway bus to San Francisco (approximately 30 minutes).
Day 2: Explore San Francisco – Pier 39 & Fisherman’s Wharf
- Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at a family-friendly café, such as Mama’s on Washington Square or Boudin Bakery Café at Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Pier 39: After breakfast, head to Pier 39, a bustling waterfront area filled with shops, restaurants, and attractions. Kids will love seeing the famous sea lions sunbathing on the docks, and there are plenty of fun activities like a carousel, arcade games, and live street performances.
Afternoon
- Exploring Fisherman’s Wharf: From Pier 39, explore Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can visit the Aquarium of the Bay, home to marine life native to the San Francisco Bay Area. The aquarium’s interactive exhibits will keep the kids engaged and learning.
- Lunch: Enjoy a family-friendly seafood lunch at Boudin Bakery for classic clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl.
Evening
- Dinner: Head to The Cheesecake Factory on Union Square for dinner with a great view of the city.
- Family Stroll: Take a leisurely evening walk around Fisherman’s Wharf to enjoy the lively atmosphere and views of the Golden Gate Bridge.
Day 3: Golden Gate Park & Exploratorium
Morning
- Golden Gate Park: Start the day with a visit to Golden Gate Park, one of San Francisco’s largest parks, offering a variety of attractions for kids. Head to the California Academy of Sciences, a natural history museum, aquarium, and planetarium all in one. It’s packed with kid-friendly exhibits, including a living roof, interactive exhibits, and an indoor rainforest.
Afternoon
- Exploratorium: After lunch, head to the Exploratorium, a science museum full of hands-on exhibits that kids will love. This interactive museum allows children to explore scientific concepts in a fun and engaging way.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at the museum’s café, which offers kid-friendly options.
Evening
- Dinner: Enjoy a family-friendly dinner at Fog Harbor Fish House, a restaurant located on Pier 39 that offers a great view of the bay and serves fresh seafood.
- Evening Fun: If time allows, take a nighttime ferry ride to Alcatraz Island or enjoy the view of the Golden Gate Bridge from Crissy Field.
Day 4: San Francisco’s Iconic Landmarks
Morning
- Golden Gate Bridge: Start your day with a visit to the Golden Gate Bridge. Kids will enjoy walking or biking across the bridge, or you can take a family photo at one of the best viewing points, such as Battery Spencer or Crissy Field.
Afternoon
- Ride the Cable Cars: A visit to San Francisco wouldn’t be complete without riding the iconic Cable Cars. Hop on a cable car at Powell Street and take a scenic ride up to Nob Hill.
- Lunch: Stop at Tadich Grill, San Francisco's oldest restaurant, for a family-friendly meal.
Evening
- Visit Chinatown: Take the kids on a fun exploration of Chinatown, where you can browse through shops, eat delicious dim sum, and explore colorful streets filled with culture and history.
- Dinner: Have a family dinner at R&G Lounge for authentic Chinese cuisine.
- Family Stroll: End the day with a relaxing walk through Union Square or along the waterfront.
Day 5: Train from San Francisco to Salem (Approx. 17-18 hours)
Morning
- After a fun-filled trip in San Francisco, board your Amtrak train back to Salem, Oregon, from Emeryville. The journey back takes about 17-18 hours, including transfers at Sacramento and Portland.
Lunch on the Train
- Dining: Enjoy lunch in the Café Car or pack your own snacks for the kids to enjoy during the journey.
In-Transit Activities for Kids
- Keep the kids entertained with games, books, or movies during the ride. Amtrak’s spacious seating allows everyone to relax and enjoy the ride back home.
Evening
- Arrival in Salem: After the long but scenic journey, you’ll return to Salem in the evening, ending your memorable family road trip.
See Price Breakdown Below -
Here’s the family-friendly round-trip itinerary from Salem, Oregon to San Francisco, California, including both budget and high-end options for every part of the trip, so you can tailor your experience based on your preferences and budget. I've included estimated prices for both budget and luxury experiences, giving you the flexibility to choose what works best for you.
Day 1: Train from Salem to San Francisco (Approx. 16-18 hours)
Budget Option:
- Amtrak Cascades in Standard Class:
- Adult (one-way): Approx. $55–$120
- Child (ages 2-12, one-way): Approx. $30–$60
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $180–$360
- Meals on Board: Affordable snacks and meals in the Café Car.
- Price: Approx. $5–$15 per person
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $20–$60
Luxury Option:
- Amtrak Cascades in Business Class:
- Adult (one-way): Approx. $120–$180
- Child (ages 2-12, one-way): Approx. $60–$90
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $360–$720
- Meals on Board: Premium meals in Business Class, served with a wider selection of gourmet snacks.
- Price: Approx. $10–$25 per person
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $40–$100
Accommodation (Upon Arrival in San Francisco)
Budget Option:
- Holiday Inn San Francisco or Hotel Nikko:
- Approx. $150–$250 per night
- Total for 2 Nights: Approx. $300–$500 for 2-night stay
Luxury Option:
- The Fairmont San Francisco or Four Seasons Hotel San Francisco:
- Approx. $500–$1,200 per night
- Total for 2 Nights: Approx. $1,000–$2,400 for 2-night stay
Day 2: Explore San Francisco – Golden Gate Bridge & Exploratorium
Budget Option:
- Golden Gate Bridge Visit: Free to visit and enjoy the views, but parking can cost $5–$10.
- Exploratorium:
- Adult Ticket: $29.95
- Children (ages 4-17): $19.95
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $100
- Lunch: Enjoy a casual meal at a local eatery like Boudin Bakery Café or Exploratorium Café.
- Approx. $10–$20 per person
- Family Meal: Approx. $40–$80
Luxury Option:
- Private Golden Gate Bridge Tour with a professional guide, providing insights and personalized service.
- Approx. $200–$400 for family of 4
- VIP Access to Exploratorium with guided tour.
- Approx. $100 per adult and $70 per child
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $340
- Michelin-Star Lunch: Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant such as Quince.
- Approx. $75–$150 per person
- Family Meal: Approx. $300–$600
Day 3: Explore San Francisco – California Academy of Sciences & Golden Gate Park
Budget Option:
- California Academy of Sciences (General Admission):
- Adults: $39.95
- Children (ages 3-17): $29.95
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $140
- Golden Gate Park: Free to explore, including playgrounds and gardens.
- Picnic in Golden Gate Park: Grab a takeout picnic from a local market like Bi-Rite Market.
- Approx. $10–$20 per person
- Family Picnic: Approx. $40–$80
- Dinner at a casual spot like The Cheesecake Factory or Fisherman’s Wharf.
- Approx. $15–$25 per person
- Family Meal: Approx. $60–$100
Luxury Option:
- Private Tour of California Academy of Sciences: Enjoy a guided tour with VIP access to exhibits.
- Approx. $300–$600 for family of 4
- Golden Gate Park Helicopter Ride: A thrilling, private helicopter tour of San Francisco.
- Approx. $600–$1,200 for family of 4
- Luxury Picnic Package in Golden Gate Park: Enjoy a gourmet picnic with a private chef preparing fresh meals.
- Approx. $200–$400
- Fine Dining at Gary Danko: A Michelin-star experience offering exquisite dishes and impeccable service.
- Approx. $100–$200 per person
- Family Meal: Approx. $400–$800
Day 4: Train from San Francisco to Salem (Approx. 16-18 hours)
Budget Option:
- Amtrak Cascades Standard Class (One-Way):
- Adult: Approx. $55–$120
- Child: Approx. $30–$60
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $180–$360
Luxury Option:
- Amtrak Cascades Business Class (One-Way):
- Adult: Approx. $120–$180
- Child: Approx. $60–$90
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $360–$720
In-Transit Meals:
- Budget Option: Affordable meals from the Café Car for around $5–$15 per person.
- Luxury Option: Enjoy gourmet snacks and meals with premium service in Business Class.
- Approx. $10–$25 per person
- Total for Family of 4: Approx. $40–$100
Total Estimated Cost for Round-Trip (Family of 4)
Budget Option:
- Amtrak Train Tickets (Round Trip): Approx. $360–$720
- Hotel Accommodation (2 Nights): Approx. $300–$500
- Activities & Meals:
- Golden Gate Bridge & Exploratorium: Approx. $200
- California Academy of Sciences & Picnic: Approx. $180
- Meals: Approx. $200–$320
- Total: Approx. $1,040–$1,740
- Golden Gate Bridge & Exploratorium: Approx. $200
- California Academy of Sciences & Picnic: Approx. $180
- Meals: Approx. $200–$320
Luxury Option:
- Amtrak Business Class Tickets (Round Trip): Approx. $720–$1,440
- Luxury Hotel Accommodation (2 Nights): Approx. $1,000–$2,400
- Luxury Activities & Meals:
- Private Tours & VIP Access: Approx. $1,200–$2,500
- Michelin-Star Dining & Private Yacht Cruise: Approx. $1,100–$2,500
- Total: Approx. $4,020–$8,840
- Private Tours & VIP Access: Approx. $1,200–$2,500
- Michelin-Star Dining & Private Yacht Cruise: Approx. $1,100–$2,500
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By offering both budget and luxury options, this round-trip train itinerary caters to different travel preferences while ensuring a memorable family experience in San Francisco. Let me know if you'd like to adjust any part of the itinerary!
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Did you enjoy this post? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Is there a dream trip or destination you’d like me to write about? Share your ideas below, and let’s make travel inspiration a two-way street!
