Faster paces with mix of 1–2-night stays in each location. Typically features 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve steep hills and uneven surfaces, such as cobblestones.
Welcome to Los Angeles! We begin our two-week trip uncovering the must-sees of the American West at our Welcome Reception in your hotel. Meet your Tour Director and fellow travelers this evening for light appetizers and refreshments before your first full day.
This morning, unlock all the glitz and glam that Los Angeles has to offer. Cruise around Beverly Hills, known for its mansions, high end shopping and celebrity sightings. Snap a picture of the iconic Beverly Hills sign as we drive down Santa Monica Blvd. Your next stop is Hollywood, a larger-than-life symbol of the entertainment business that beckons tourists with landmarks like the TCL Chinese Theater and star-studded Walk of Fame, historic music venues like the Hollywood Bowl, and the Dolby Theater, which is home of the Oscars. We'll have some free time to find your favorite celebrity star and grab some lunch on Hollywood Blvd before making our way to San Diego for two nights.
Embark on a sightseeing tour with your Travel Director, taking in some of the key sights of San Diego, California's second largest city. Travel through the city's historic Gaslamp Quarter and learn about its past, present, and local secrets. Move on to Balboa Park, one of America's most famous urban cultural parks and home to the world-famous San Diego Zoo. Finish up at historic Old Town, the first European settlement in present-day California, with free time for lunch. The afternoon is yours to relax or enjoy an optional experience of touring the USS Midway or taking a San Diego Harbor cruise.
Cross large swathes of the desert southwest on your way through California and Arizona. Spot the iconic saguaros as you traverse the great Sonoran Desert stopping in Yuma and Gila Bend 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. Perhaps dine on Southwest cuisine or sip on a cool margarita as the sun sets.
Explore the iconic red rocks of Sedona, awestruck by the majestic crimson rock formations. Spend the morning ambling through the various shops along the main road or opt for one of our jeep tours into the backcountry. Continue north along Oak Creek Canyon Scenic Drive, one of the Top 5 Most Scenic Drives in America, climbing 4,500 feet from Sedona to the top of the Mogollon Rim where the canyon opens to the foliage of oaks interspersed with evergreen pines, and the incredible backdrop of red-faced rocks and cliffs. Arrive at the UNESCO-listed Grand Canyon National Park where you’ll meet your Local Specialist, Canyon Tim, for an informative talk about the origins of the five-million-year-old canyon, its rock formations and impact now.
Early risers, seize the morning on an optional helicopter flight over the heart of the Grand Canyon where incredible views of the south rim, north rim and Colorado River await. This morning, pack your bags and head to buzzy Las Vegas along Route 66, a symbol of the ultimate American road trip. Stop by Seligman and Kingman, two iconic outposts for a taste of all things Americana, complete with classic motels, kitsch petrol pumps and steaming slices of Apple pie. As if by magic, spot the neon lights of Las Vegas looming in the distance; an entertainment oasis surrounded by dry desert with a reputation almost as big as the fortunes many have made (and lost) there. Choose to join a Sights and Lights Sightseeing Tour or rest up for another big day.
Today is all about you. Spend it as you wish and perhaps join one of our many optional experiences in Sin City. Delve into an engineering marvel on the Hoover Dam Tour. View the dam from the newly completed Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge, the largest concrete arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere standing 900 feet above the Colorado River and gaze in amazement at the largest dam of its time. Or, go back in time to experience the iconic stars and personalities that helped define the soul of Sin City at "Vegas! The Show".
We leave Sin City behind as we head towards the mountains of Mammoth Lakes. To get there, we’ll travel through the vast arid landscapes of the Mojave Desert. Keep your eyes peeled for photo ops as we journey through this otherworldly terrain. When we arrive in Mammoth Lakes, you’ll have an evening at leisure to enjoy this outdoor adventure playground amidst the rolling peaks of the Sierra Nevada Mountains.
Descend from the Sierra Nevada Mountains through stunning Tioga Pass and enter UNESCO-listed Yosemite National Park. We journey through Yosemite Valley, admiring the natural wonders of Bridalveil Fall, Yosemite Falls, and El Capitan's imposing granite cliffs. Spend the rest of the day learning about the natural history, flora, and fauna of one of the world's oldest national parks. Not just a great valley, but a shrine to human foresight, the strength of granite, the power of glaciers, the persistence of life, and the tranquility of the High Sierra. Yosemite National Park is best known for its waterfalls, but within its nearly 1,200 square miles, you can find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, a vast wilderness area and much more.
* Please note that the Tioga Pass visit will be subject to weather conditions.*
Today we leave California's Central Valley en route to Northern California. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER ® Experience in Oakland for a Black Foodie Walking Tour where you’ll learn about the rich culinary offerings and growing business scene of the Black community here. Then, it's off to see the Golden Gate Bridge, Embarcadero, and the infamous trolleys. Continue your discovery of the local cuisine or dine on dim-sum joining an optional Chinatown Illuminations Tour in the evening.
San Francisco is your playground today with several optional experiences to choose from. Get acquainted with the must-see sights of the city on a San Francisco Sightseeing Tour led by your Travel Director. Admire the eclectic mix of architecture (Victorian and Modern), culture and cuisines. Stroll through the lively hotspot of Fisherman's Wharf to Union Square, a historical landmark linked to the American Civil War, lined with interesting shops. This afternoon, choose to join a walking tour across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge before making the short drive down to quaint seaside Sausalito for some free time before we take a ferry on the Bay back to San Francisco passing famous Alcatraz Island.
Arrive in Monterey’s Cannery Row, named in honor of John Steinbeck and his novel that described a colorful past. Now, Cannery Row's buildings are updated, shinier versions of turn-of-the-century canneries with eclectic shops, local artists' galleries, and restaurants. Stop for a Be My Guest lunch at Happy Girl Kitchen Co. where owners Todd and Jordan Champagne host a three-course vegetarian-based lunch highlighting locally sourced ingredients. Then, learn about Jordan’s fun and unconventional methods and secrets for making fruit preserves from the comfort of your home kitchen. You'll even get to take home a sample of preserves she makes onsite. This afternoon, cruise the scenic 17-Mile Drive through Pebble Beach and Pacific Grove passing famous golf courses, mansions, and scenic attractions, including the Lone Cypress, Bird Rock and the 5,300-acre Del Monte Forest of Monterey Cypress trees.
The morning is yours to do as you please. We’ll start with a visit the quaint seaside town of Morro Bay before exploring the rest of California's central coast. This evening, say goodbye to your fellow travelers and enjoy one final three-course dinner together.
Kick off your final day in the American Riviera of Santa Barbara. Located on a pristine stretch of California’s central coastline, Santa Barbara brings together the Golden State’s Spanish influence, laid-back vibe, and upscale sensibility in a way few places can. You’ll have some time to explore State Street, the Old Mission Santa Barbara, the Museum of Natural History, or the Museum of Art. You’ll also have time to get lunch on your own today before we head to Los Angeles International Airport arriving at approximately 3:30 PM.
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.
Visit USS Midway (Available on Day 3)With more than 30 restored aircraft and nearly 10 acres of exhibits and displays, the Midway brings you the most complete cross-section of carrier aviation in the world. From high up on the bridge down to the main engine room, taking you on a unique self-guided warship journey that engages the sights, sounds and aromas of this symbol of American freedom.
Adult Price: $33 Child Price: $33 San Diego Best of the Bay Cruise - City Experiences by Hornblower (Available on Day 3)Enjoy the best professionally-narrated harbor tour of the San Diego Bay. We’ll cover over 20 miles on the Big Bay, passing by Seaport Village, Shelter Island, shipbuilding and dry-docking facilities, Coronado Island, Point Loma and Cabrillo National Monument, among many others. As we sail, we’ll see delightful marine animals and majestic sea birds, and we’ll talk about what local environmental efforts are doing to protect them. You’ll have plenty of opportunities to capture all the sights in photos and video, and our full-service snack bar is always open.
Adult Price: $39 Child Price: $39 Canyons and Cowboys (Available on Day 5)Your Red Rock Western Guide takes you through a scenic wonderland surrounded by seven majestic canyons into historic Dry Creek Basin. Relive early cowboy days in this fun outing in Sedona.
Adult Price: $120 Child Price: $120 Easy on the Asphalt (90 minutes) (Available on Day 5)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 and some of the most photographed sites in all of Arizona.
Adult Price: $120 Child Price: $120 Grand Discovery Air Tour South Rim - 45 Min. Fixed-Wing Aircraft Flight (Available on Day 6)There’s no better way to experience the grandeur of the Grand Canyon South Rim than on a fascinating aerial tour offering unobstructed views. Sit back and feel the thrill of this Natural Wonder as you fly over the Kaibab National Forest, Kaibab Plateau, Confluence of Colorado, Little Colorado River, Imperial Point and Zuni Corridor.
Adult Price: $196 Child Price: $196 Grand Kingdom - 40 Min. EcoStar Helicopter Flight (Available on Day 6)Soar across the canyon rim on a helicopter flight, watching as the bottom seemingly drops out from under your feet. Gaze deep into the core of the canyon over 5,000 feet down to the confluence of the Little Colorado River. Then drift past Imperial Point - a rugged spire standing alone near the North Rim of the Canyon. Flying at the same altitude as the North Rim, you may feel you can reach out and touch the canyon walls. Then head back to Grand Canyon South Rim via the Dragon Corridor, another of the Grand Canyon's most picturesque sections.
Adult Price: $391 Child Price: $391 North Canyon Tour Helicopter Flight. Bell Aircraft - 25 minutes (Available on Day 6)The Grand Canyon opens up before you on a memorable helicopter experience over its southern and northern rims. After flying over the Kaibab National Forest, enter the Dragon Corridor - the deepest and widest part of the Grand Canyon. Marvel at the canyon's legendary beauty through the specially designed oversized windows of your helicopter. Have your camera ready to capture the colorful stone walls and sweeping vistas surrounding you. Fly over the mighty Colorado River toward the canyon's rugged North Rim and soar along with rock formations, including the Tower of Ra and Vishnu Schist.
Adult Price: $264 Child Price: $264 Las Vegas Sights & Lights (Available on Day 6)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 next. Be prepared for an evening that’s full of surprises!
Adult Price: $46 Child Price: $46 Hoover Dam Visitor Center (Available on Day 7)Depart Las Vegas 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, 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 States' largest man-made reservoir, Lake Mead. Our visit includes admission to the visitor center. The visitor center features exhibits that highlight the history of the region and the construction of the Hoover Dam.
Adult Price: $54 Child Price: $54 Death Valley Day Tour (Available on Day 7)An enthusiastic guide will bring Death Valley to life while showing you the most spectacular highlights of the largest national park in the contiguous United States. Travel by Tour Trekker and experience the history, geology and more.
Adult Price: $281 Child Price: $256 VEGAS! The Show and Dinner (Available on Day 7)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. 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! Your ticket also includes a three-course dinner at Café Hollywood - located steps away from the theater.
Adult Price: $152 Child Price: $152 Las Vegas Foodie Tour (Available on Day 7)Discover the locals’ favorite destination, the newly revitalized booming downtown that showcases a completely different side of Vegas, away from noisy slot machines and gaming tables for a welcome slice of urban authenticity instead. In recent years, downtown has gone uptown in a big way, undergoing a thrilling renaissance to become the city’s most dynamic food scene. Get to know the independent chefs and restaurateurs bringing their singular visions to life with seasonally driven, farm-to-table artisan fare, and cocktails crafted with heart and soul. Our expert guides provide an insider’s view of this special neighborhood. You’ll learn about downtown’s historic past, what prompted its resurgence, and what the future holds for this now trendy area. You’ll be privy to all its intriguing nooks and crannies, which only savvy locals know about. What to Wear: dress appropriately for the day's weather conditions and wear comfortable walking shoes with upscale restaurant attire. No sweatpants, jerseys or athletic apparel permitted. No flip-flops or tanks tops for men. Includes stops at four local restaurants. This is a walking tour so guests should be comfortable walking short distances and standing for several minutes in between restaurant visits.
Adult Price: $145 Child Price: $145 Guided Chinatown Walking Tour, Pier 39 and City Illuminations Tour (Available on Day 10)Explore the Chinese markets, herb shops, a fortune cookie factory and more (weather permitting). After, 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!
Adult Price: $88 Child Price: $88 Golden Gate Bridge Walk and Sausalito (Available on Day 11)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.
Adult Price: $44 Child Price: $44