242. Midweek Mini: A Redwoods to San Francisco Road Trip

242. Midweek Mini: A Redwoods to San Francisco Road Trip

August 19, 2026 · 24 min · Season 1 · Episode 242

About this episode

The episode discusses a family road trip itinerary from Redwood National Park to San Francisco, focusing on budget travel using points.

We share listener Lindsay's family road trip through Northern California, highlighting an itinerary that stretches from Redwood National Park to San Francisco almost entirely on points. Using a creative mix of United, Chase, American Express, Hyatt free night awards, Southwest points, and Companion Passes, Lindsay pieced together six nights of lodging while keeping costs remarkably low. Along the way, the family explored iconic stops including Fern Canyon, the towering redwood groves, Trees of Mystery, Sonoma, and San Francisco favorites like Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Alcatraz, Muir Woods, and Lombard Street. The episode also includes practical tips on planning this route, finding great local restaurants, preparing for Northern California's surprisingly cool summer weather, and maximizing points and free night certificates for an unforgettable family road trip. Find Us On Online: Sign Up for the Y! Wonder Travel Newsletter Mary Ellen | Jo Facebook Group Affiliate Links: Relief Band - Use code WONDERLAND for 25% off! Comfrt.com 15% OFF Rakuten- Mary Ellen (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Rakuten- Joanna (Get 5000 AMEX or Bilt POINTS) Cardpointers Halara (use code "Wonderland" for…

People in this episode

Hosts: Mary Ellen, Jo

Guest: Lindsay

Topics covered

Keywords

Sponsors

Relief Band, Comfrt.com, Rakuten, Rakuten, Cardpointers, Halara

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: United, Chase, American Express, Hyatt, Southwest

Places: Redwood National Park, San Francisco, Fern Canyon, Trees of Mystery, Sonoma, Fisherman's Wharf, Pier 39, Alcatraz, Muir Woods, Lombard Street

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