Western Discoverer
14 Days from $3,465 per person
Champion happy on this epic encounter with Hollywood's Walk of Fame, the splendor of Yosemite Falls, astounding views of the Grand Canyon and a dazzling playground in the desert, Las Vegas.
Overview
Champion happy on this epic encounter with Hollywood's Walk of Fame, the splendor of Yosemite Falls, astounding views of the Grand Canyon and a dazzling playground in the desert, Las Vegas.
-
Day 1: Arrive Los Angeles
Immerse yourself in the creative energy of the City of Angels - your launch pad to an effortlessly delivered exploration of the iconic sights and sounds of the West, with a bit of sun-kissed California in the mix. After a short transfer to Beverly Hills, settle in to your hotel, where you'll meet your Travel Director and fellow travel companions for a Welcome Reception.
-
Day 2: Los Angeles – San Diego
Ease into the laid-back surfer-style vibes of San Diego. Discover Balboa Park, the Old Town and Victorian Gaslamp Quarter, dating back to the 1850s. Spend some free time exploring "America's Finest City" on your own terms before joining your newfound friends for a memorable Regional Meal dinner.
-
Day 3: San Diego – Scottsdale
Spot the sanguaros as you traverse the great Sonoran Desert en route to the trendy Arizona town of Scottsdale. This evening, the Valley of the Sun shines brightly as you enjoy free time to explore its galleries, boutiques and chic eateries.
-
Day 4: Scottsdale – Sedona – Grand Canyon National Park
Journey to the artists' enclave of Sedona - your rocky red gateway to an unforgettable encounter with the epic natural beauty of Oak Creek Canyon. We arrive at the UNESCO-listed Grand Canyon this afternoon where we'll meet a Local Specialist who will share insights into the canyon's geological marvels. Watch how the light plays on its layered cliffs and peer down into its depths to see the Colorado River as you skirt the South Rim.
-
Day 5: Grand Canyon National Park – Las Vegas (2 Nights)
We leave the world's largest canyon behind and head towards the dazzling lights of Las Vegas, where we'll spend the next two nights. The Entertainment Capital of the World blooms in the midst of the desert and you'll have an opportunity to explore it over the next two nights.
-
Day 6: Las Vegas Sightseeing
Shrug off the shackles of responsibility and embrace fun and games in the city that never sleeps. Break the bank at one of the casinos, enjoy some retail therapy or have lunch at one of the city's larger-than-life restaurants. This evening, we enjoy one of the elaborate Regional Meal buffets for which Las Vegas is renowned.
-
Day 7: Las Vegas – Mammoth Lakes
We leave Sin City behind, travelling through the vast arid landscapes of the Mojave Desert, to Mammoth Lakes, an outdoor adventure playground amidst the rolling peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains. Enjoy an evening at leisure. (Weather conditions may cause the Tioga Pass to be closed to traffic, typically from mid October to the end of May. In this case, an alternate entry point to Yosemite will be used.)
-
Day 8: Mammoth Lakes – Yosemite National Park
Descend from the Sierra Nevada Mountains through stunning Tioga Pass (seasonal) and enter UNESCO-listed Yosemite National Park. We journey through Yosemite Valley, admiring the natural wonders of Bridal Veil, Yosemite Falls and El Capitan's imposing granite cliffs. Spend the rest of the day delving into the natural history, flora and fauna of one of the world's oldest national parks.
-
Day 9: Yosemite National Park – Napa and Sonoma Valleys – San Francisco (2 Nights)
We head north to Northern California's original wine country this morning, past Napa and on to Sonoma, where we'll Dive into Culture and visit a family-owned winery for an exclusive tour and wine tasting. A short journey down the coast sees us arrive in San Francisco. Travel beneath the glowing orange arches of the Golden Gate Bridge into "The City", where you'll enjoy a Regional Meal dinner with your fellow travelers this evening.
-
Day 10: San Francisco Sightseeing
Embark on an exploration of San Francisco and its iconic sights, from Fisherman's Wharf to Golden Gate Park. Indulge in the Bay Area's best artisan foods and fresh farm produce, then spend the rest of the afternoon discovering the city's cosmopolitan neighborhoods, including the largest Chinese enclave outside Asia.
-
Day 11: San Francisco – Monterey (2 Nights)
Drive to Monterey where we'll Connect with Locals for a Be My Guest dinner using the freshest farm-to-table local ingredients.
-
Day 12: Monterey and Carmel-by-the-Sea Sightseeing
Admire the inspiring natural scenery as you continue along the iconic 17-Mile Drive, past the Lone Cypress Tree and Pebble Beach Golf Links. The rest of the day is free to explore Monterey's strong coastal heritage. Visit the historic waterfront district and Cannery Row, immortalized by the John Steinbeck novel bearing the same name - the choice is yours.
-
Day 13: Monterey – Santa Barbara
We journey south onto idyllic Santa Barbara. Spend some time discovering the city's Spanish colonial heritage and perhaps visit Mission Santa Barbara, one of the 21 missions founded by the Spaniards along El Camino Real. This evening, join our newfound friend to toast our holiday during a Farewell Dinner.
-
Day 14: Santa Barbara – Depart Los Angeles
Head to Hollywood to see Tinseltown's most famous icons, then continue to Beverly Hills for those extending their stay or take a transfer to the Los Angeles International Airport. Airport arrival will be at 2:30 pm. Please be aware when booking your flights.
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Definite Departure
| Start Date | Return Date | Price | Discount | Availability | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 23 May 19 | 5 Jun 19 |
|
$3,850$3,465pp | SAVE: $385Promo Code: PPLMDE579AARP members save an additional $100 | Call 1-877-622-9109 Book Now | ||
| 6 Jun 19 | 19 Jun 19 |
|
$3,875pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 20 Jun 19 | 3 Jul 19 |
|
$3,875pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 1 Aug 19 | 14 Aug 19 |
|
$3,895pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | ||
| 22 Aug 19 | 4 Sep 19 | $3,895pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 5 Sep 19 | 18 Sep 19 | $3,850pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now | |||
| 26 Sep 19 | 9 Oct 19 |
|
$3,795pp | AARP members save an additional $100 | Request Quote Book Now |
Price is per person and is based on two people sharing a twin bedded room. Single rooms are available at a supplement.
Single Room Supplement: $1,875.
Gratuities: Option to pre-pay gratuities for Travel Director and Driver $159 per person.
AARP Members are entitled to an exclusive Member Benefit Discount on all Grand European Travel vacations. Plus receive a free travel gift! Call Toll Free: 1-866-847-3858 for details.
-
Professional Travel Director
-
Sightseeing with Local Experts
-
VIP Access
-
WIFI on Coach and in Hotels
-
Cultural Enrichment
-
Expertly Selected Hotels
-
Hotel Tips
-
Most Meals
Meal Summary
19 meals: 13 full breakfasts, 6 dinners.
Included Highlights
Connect with Locals
- Visit Happy Girl Kitchen in Monterey, where your hosts share their knowledge and love of food using the freshest ingredients during an outstanding farm-to-table experience
Dive into Culture
- Visit a family-owned winery for an exclusive tour and wine tasting in Sonoma
Local Specialist
- Learn about the amazing geology of the Grand Canyon
Sightseeing Highlights
- City tour in Los Angeles, San Francisco
- Orientation of San Diego, Santa Barbara
- View Oak Creek Canyon, Half Dome
- Visit Grand Canyon National Park, Las Vegas, Yosemite National Park, Mammoth Lakes, Napa Valley, Sonoma Valley, Santa Barbara, Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey
- Scenic drive along 17-Mile Drive
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
Reviews
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
-
Packing
We suggest bringing a variety of lightweight clothing items that can be layered to save space in your suitcase and give you more options for how to dress. For more helpful information please refer to our Packing Tips & Packing List.
-
Gratuity
At the end of your guided vacation, it’s customary to offer your motor coach driver and Travel Director a gratuity. We recommend $4-5 per person/per day for your driver and $6-7 per person/per day for your Travel Director. Recommended gratuity for a Local Host and Local Specialist is 1-2 dollars per person, paid at the conclusion of each guided visit. A convenient option is to prepay your tips before your departure.
-
Baggage
Baggage on our trips is restricted to one large suitcase per person with dimensions not exceeding 30x19x10 inches and a maximum weight of 50 pounds. You are also permitted one piece of hand luggage, which should be small enough to fit under your coach seat or on the small overhead shelf compartment. Please note that luggage with an adjustable handle and wheels will not fit in the overhead compartment of the coach. Hotel porterage is included in your vacation.
-
Health and Fitness
You will need to be comfortable on your feet, walking and standing for up to three hours in various weather conditions. All of our vacations involve walking, often on cobblestone and uneven surfaces in historic city centers. In order to get the most out of your vacation you need to be able to comfortably walk 1-3 miles unassisted in one day, be in good condition and be able to keep pace with the group.
If you need any medications, it is important that you bring enough to last you the whole trip and keep them in your carry-on bag while you travel.
-
Insurance
We highly recommend our optional Travel Protection Plan, which allows you to cancel for any reason up to 24 hours before departure. The plan also includes trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and medical and emergency assistance. Click here for a summary of coverage details, terms and conditions.
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
Optional Experiences are subject to change. Your Travel Director will supply you with a final list of Optional Experiences available on your trip. Optional Experiences cannot be booked online; they can be purchased during your trip through your Travel Director.
San Diego
San Diego Scenic Harbor Cruise And USS Midway Museum
Embark on a one-hour narrated boat tour of San Diego Harbor that provides up-close access to scenic waterfront architecture, military crafts, historical landmarks, natural sea life and spectacular photo opportunities. Your professional guide will share entertaining facts and history that helped to shape the city’s distinctive waterfront. The ship feature three levels with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, 360-degree views, and an onboard snack bar. After your harbor cruise, visit the USS Midway Museum where every admission includes a self-guided audio tour of 25 restored aircraft and 60 exciting exhibits; from the powerful engine room to the Captain’s bridge. Stop and listen to one of the many story-telling docents throughout the ship. Approx. duration: 3 hours.
Adult Price: $50
San Diego Zoo
Explore the world-famous San Diego Zoo, located in beautiful Balboa Park. Caring for over 4000 animals of 800 different species from the forests and jungles of the world, the zoo is a unique walking experience that exhibits animals in the most natural way possible, adding shows and animal presentations throughout the day. Take the zoo bus tour to help you decide which areas you want to spend more time in – be sure to visit the Lost Forest to watch the gorillas in action and stop at the Giant Panda Research Station, which is now home to three Giant Pandas including Xiao Liwu born in 2012. Your admission includes the zoo bus tour, round-trip Skyfari Aerial Tram Ride, all shows and children’s zoo. Transfers included. Approx. duration: 4 hours.
Adult Price: $57
1 Hour San Diego Scenic Harbor Cruise
Embark on a one-hour narrated boat tour of San Diego Harbor that provides up-close access to scenic waterfront architecture, military crafts, historical landmarks, natural sea life and spectacular photo opportunities. Your professional guide will share entertaining facts and history that helped to shape the city’s distinctive waterfront. The ship feature three levels with comfortable indoor and outdoor seating, 360-degree views, and an onboard snack bar. Approx. duration: 1 hour
Adult Price: $28
Grand Canyon
The Ballooning Experience
Your Arizona flight begins with the inflation of the balloon by motorized fans. Upon inflation, you will join your pilot in the beautiful hand-crafted wicker basket. The luxurious, over-sized basket has plenty of room to allow everyone to enjoy the Arizona flight to the fullest. As you gently leave the Earth, you'll be amazed at how light the balloon feels. During the flight you have unobstructed 360-degree views, allowing for breathtaking photographs. Your pilot will explore a variety of altitudes, up to 3,000 feet in the air for a marvelous overview of the valley. While in flight, commonly seen are jackrabbit, quail, roadrunner and coyote, and from time to time encounter deer, javalina and other desert animals. Your pilot will point out exotic desert plant life below and descend within inches of trees and cacti, much to everyone's delight. Breakfast, champagne and juice is included. Subject to weather conditions. Approx. duration: 3 hours
Adult Price: $210
Easy On The Asphalt
A “Sedona snapshot” with great photo opportunities! Join us on this informative and relaxing, yet breathtaking, tour of some of Sedona’s most magnificent overlooks including Cathedral Rock, one of the most photographed sites in all of Arizona. On-road tour. Approx. duration: 1 hour
Adult Price: $54
Old Bear Wallow
An exclusive experience as our jeep tour operator is the only company permitted by the U.S. Forest Service to take you on this historic trail - climb this early stagecoach route along Schnebly Hill Road through Bear Wallow Canyon, just below the Mogollon Rim to enjoy stunning views of Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon 2000ft below. Step onto Munds Wagon or Huckaby Trail and hear stories of Sedona's early pioneer days. Approx. duration:1 hour.
Adult Price: $54
North Canyon Tour Helicopter Flight, Bell Aircraft (April 1 - October 31)
Your tour takes you over the Kaibab National Forest and into the deepest portion of the Grand Canyon, through the Dragon Corridor, and continues to the North Rim, where you view the incredible geological differences between the North and South Rims. During your return to the South Rim, enjoy breathtaking views of temples, shrines and rock formations sculpted by time while flying above the widest portion of the mighty Colorado River. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 25-30 min
Adult Price: $220
North Canyon Tour Helicopter Flight
Your tour takes you over the Kaibab National Forest and into the deepest portion of the Grand Canyon, through the Dragon Corridor, and continues to the North Rim, where you view the incredible geological differences between the North and South Rims. During your return to the South Rim, enjoy breathtaking views of temples, shrines and rock formations sculpted by time while flying above the widest portion of the mighty Colorado River. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 25-30 minutes.
Adult Price: $219
Grand Kingdom EcoStar Helicopter Flight
Fly the EC 130, the “newest and quietest” helicopters in the Grand Canyon with larger windows, and all seats facing forward. Embark on this 45-50 minute tour of the Eastern Grand Canyon that combines with the renowned beauty of The North Canyon tour. Enjoy spectacular views of the Painted Desert and Colorado River. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 40-50 minutes.
Adult Price: $310
Grand Discovery South Rim Airplane Tour
The original air tour of the Grand Canyon and the best value! Board an ultra-quiet small aircraft for a 40-45 minute Grand Discovery flight over the Grand Canyon. The Vistaliner airplanes feature oversize windows that make every seat the best seat and allows for post card quality pictures! This tour covers the most famous and beautiful parts of the Grand Canyon including the Eastern Zuni Corridor, the Confluence and the North Rim and returns through the Western Dragon Corridor. Subject to weather conditions. Flight duration: 40-50 minutes.
Adult Price: $160
Las Vegas
Las Vegas Sights And Lights
Join this exciting night on the town in the 'City That Never Sleeps!' You’ll be amazed by the brilliant Fremont Street Experience, see countless wedding chapels, and, of course, be awed by the most spectacular collection of casino hotels in the world. There will be plenty of stops along the way to see some of the most extravagant casinos and attractions, each trying to outdo the other. Be prepared for an evening that’s full of surprises! Approx. duration: 2.5 hours.
Adult Price: $36
Hoover Dam Excursion and Mob Museum
Depart Las Vegas with your Travel Director to one of the most famous modern marvels of our time- the Hoover Dam. First view the dam from the newly completed Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, the largest concrete arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere just completed in 2010. Stand 900 feet above the Colorado River and gaze in amazement at the largest dam of its time, holding back the United State’s largest man made reservoir, Lake Mead. Includes admission to the Visitor Center and the Powerplant tour. The visitor center features exhibits that highlight the history of the region and how the Hoover Dam was constructed and the Powerplant Tour offers exhibits and other media that provide a comprehensive view of the massive dam and its operations, as well as highlight many of the unique features around the site. Then visit the Mob Museum to explore the fascinating interactive exhibits, artifacts and digital experiences, learning more about the lives of Al Capone, Lucky Luciano, J. Edgar Hoover and many other criminals from Sin City and beyond. Approx. duration: 6 hours.
Adult Price: $66
Hoover Dam Excursion
Depart Las Vegas with your Travel Director to one of the most famous Modern Marvels of our time, the Hoover Dam. First view the dam from the newly complete Mike O' Callaghan-Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, the largest concrete arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere, just completed in 2010. Stand 900 feet above the Colorado River and gaze in amazement at the largest dam of its time, holding back the Unites State's largest man made reservoir, Lake Mead. Enter the base of Hoover dam on a guided tour and hear the vibrating hums of rushing water and Hydroelectric Turbines. Approx. duration: 4 hours.
Adult Price: $53
Vegas! The Show
Come and experience what is hailed as the only show in Vegas, about Vegas! VEGAS! The Show will take you by the hand back in time to experience the iconic stars and personalities that helped to define the soul that created the Sin City we know today! Featuring some of the most beautiful showgirls in Vegas, and some of the best voices in the country, you can hear all of the hits from your favorite stars while witnessing the greatest moments that helped define Las Vegas as the Entertainment Capital of the World. From the crooners of the Rat Pack to Sonny & Cher, Elvis Presley and so many more. Experience the iconic personalities that helped shape the story of one of the greatest cities on Earth. Backed by a live big band orchestra, "Santa Fe and The Fat City Horns", this is the only production that will recreate the class, sass and excitement of old Las Vegas right before your eyes! Approx. duration: 1.5 hours.
Adult Price: $86
San Francisco
Golden Gate Bridge Walk and Sausalito
Stroll across the 1.7 mile span of the magnificent Golden Gate Bridge and learn how the bridge was an engineering marvel and about the people who gave so much time to build this icon of San Francisco. Arrive in the quaint seaside community of Sausalito and have time to leisurely browse the charming shops or have lunch along the picturesque bay. Your adventure concludes with a wondrous ferry cruise across the bay, passing haunting Alcatraz Island and catching an amazing view of the Golden Gate Bridge. Approx. duration: 3.5 hours
Adult Price: $40
Guided Chinatown Walking Tour, Chinese Dinner and City Illuminations Tour
Explore the Chinese markets, herb shops, a fortune cookie factory and more (weather permitting), before dining family-style with a Chinese feast. After dinner, board your motorcoach for the City Illuminations Tour. Drive past the colorful signs and glittering lights of North Beach, the Embarcadero, Fisherman’s Wharf, Telegraph Hill, Coit Tower, the Broadway Strip and the historic Ferry Building. After crossing the Oakland Bay Bridge to Treasure Island, catch a spectacular night panorama of sparkling San Francisco! Approx. duration: 3 hours
Adult Price: $67
Monterey
Monterey Bay Aquarium
Located at the ocean's edge on historic Cannery Row, the Monterey Bay Aquarium is your window to marine life. Visit sea otters, penguins, sharks, jellies and much, much more as you spend time exploring this fascinating museum of the ocean! Approx. duration: 2 hours.
Adult Price: $51
Request a Quote
-
30 Day Refund Guarantee
We promise you’ll enjoy a stress-free travel experience from the minute you start your vacation planning or we’ll refund your deposit. Make your reservation with a $350 deposit. If you change your mind for any reason within 30 days of booking, we’ll offer you a full refund.
