america tour 2 weeks

2 Weeks In The United States [5 Sample Itineraries]

• By Site Staff
• January 19, 2024
• In USA Travel

We've traveled extensively across the United States, exploring 45 states and gathering many experiences. When planning a trip to the US, the options can seem endless.

That's why we've compiled five sample itineraries to guide you through some of the country's best offers.

These itineraries draw from our travels and in-depth research, including for states like Florida, where we've meticulously planned our upcoming visit.

Whether you're drawn to the West Coast, East Coast, or the majestic Rockies, these plans are designed for road trip enthusiasts.

So, buckle up, grab your favorite beverage, and join us on a journey through these exciting routes. We'd love to hear your thoughts on these itineraries, so feel free to leave a comment at the end!

Itinerary #1: The East Coast

Touring the United States' east coast in spring, summer, and fall is best. These months will see the largest coastal cities burst with life and activity.

Come winter, most of the pit stops on any potential road trip will still be busy, but you'll need to take extra precautions to endure the eastern winter. This first road trip will take you over 1,278 miles in two weeks.

That may seem like a lot to cover, but with this itinerary, you won't miss a thing.

Day 1-3: New York City

Starting any United States East Coast tour in New York City is best. The city that never sleeps will keep you more than occupied during the first three days of your trip.

No matter what your interests are, you'll be able to find a unique and appealing attraction in NYC. This includes theater through Broadway or smaller organizations, art and science exhibits at any of the local museums, and shopping for anyone looking to bring souvenirs back home.

Some of the most notable attractions in New York City include:

• The Statue of Liberty
• Central Park
• Fifth Avenue Shopping
• The Empire State Building
• Top Of The Rock Observation Deck
• The American Museum of Natural History
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• The Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum

Don't feel you must hit all these attractions over your three-day visit, but do your best to find the spots that interest you the most!

In our experience:

We've spent only four days in New York City, and while it's certainly a bucket list destination, we're in no rush to return. There's a lot to do there, but it's expensive too.

Traveling with young kids, we settled for Central Park (including the zoo!), taking the ferry to view Lady Liberty and walking just about everywhere in Manhattan.

Our favorite spot was the Highline Trail - just a lovely long park in the middle of the city.

Stay charged while exploring the endless attractions of New York City with a reliable Portable Power Bank, a must-have for any urban adventure.

View on Amazon

Day 4: Philadelphia

Once you've wrapped up your time in New York City, it's time to head south towards Philadelphia. This trip by car will take you about two hours and is 95 miles in total.

Philadelphia isn't quite as busy as New York City, but it's no less appealing to the inexperienced traveler. Here, you'll find icons from American history alongside modern marvels, including:

• The Liberty Bell Center
• Independence Hall
• Peddler's Village
• Reading Terminal Market
• Valley Forge National Historical Park
• Longwood Gardens
• Please Touch Museum

You can't go to Philadelphia without trying a Philly cheesesteak. Even if you can only visit for the day, make sure to weigh in on the local debate between cheesesteak shops.

You'll be able to determine whether Joe's, Tony Luke's, or another shop makes the best cheesesteak in the city.

For Americans, a tour of Philadelphia could easily take two full days. For us, a single day was enough. We visited the Federal Mint, took a tour of the Independence Hall, viewed the Liberty Bell from outside, and even had lunch at the City Tavern restaurant, part of the historic national park.

Day 5-6: Washington, D.C.

After spending a day in Philadelphia, moving to the nation's capital is time. Washington, D.C., is 139 miles and two and a half hours away from Philadelphia.

Once settled in, you can explore the political center of one of the planet's most expansive and complicated nations.

If you're intrigued by the nation's ongoing political struggles, why not schedule a White House or Capitol Building tour? Alternatively, you can spend your day walking from the Lincoln Memorial to the Washington Monument .

Any history buffs you bring on your trip will not want to miss the Smithsonian and its many exhibits on the National Mall . The National Mall is also the best place to score a Washington D.C. hot dog, so plan your visit accordingly!

We spent three days in DC on one of our trips. There is a lot to see and do here. In addition to everything mentioned so far, we booked a Pentagon tour. If you have the time, do that too.

Be prepared for unpredictable weather in Washington, D.C., with a Compact Travel Umbrella, perfect for those sudden rain showers.

Day 7: Shenandoah National Park

One hour and 19 minutes away from Washington, D.C., rests Shenandoah National Park, a must-see for nature lovers and history buffs alike. Seventy-five miles outside Washington, D.C., you can tour Skyline Drive free of the urban hustle and bustle.

You can spend your day hiking along the park's many trails or biking past some of the area's most diverse patches of wilderness. You can return to a hotel or spend your night camping under the stars.

The park is open 365 days a year, though it will close if the weather is set to be poor. You'll be able to visit from sunrise to sunset. Entrance fees range as follows:

• Single Vehicles: $30
• Single Motorcycles: $25
• Individual Walk-Ins: $15

This is a great park for hiking and experiencing the Appalachian mountains. If you've already visited some of the parks of the Western US, such as Yellowstone or Yosemite, lower your expectations.

The scenery doesn't compare, though it is gorgeous in its own right. Still, it is a great place for hiking in the woods and taking a break from the big cities.

Day 8-9: Pennsylvania

Once you've finished your day in Shenandoah National Park, you can spend the next day or two touring through Pennsylvania.

You can drive back to Philadelphia if you like or visit some of the state's other attractions, including Gettysburg , Lancaster , and Amish Villages , including Intercourse and Bird-in-Hand. Other must-sees in Pennsylvania include:

• Hershey Park - any chocolate lovers on your trip with you can smell Hershey Park before they spot it. Near the Hershey plant, this amusement park embraces its founders' love of chocolate with sweet-themed rides, plays, and attractions.
• Falling Water - any art buff will recognize Falling Water as one of Frank Lloyd Wright's most famous architectural feats. Schedule a tour of this renowned home and see how Wright made history with his architectural creativity.
• Eastern State Penitentiary - are you afraid of ghosts? If so, maybe keep the Eastern State Penitentiary off of your itinerary. Those brave enough to visit will be able to tour this historic prison and learn more about its tragic history and the superstitions that haunt the halls today.

Even though our kids were the right age, we skipped Hershey Park. We did have a lovely time couchsurfing with a local Mennonite family and experiencing the Dutch farm way of life.

We also enjoyed visiting Gettysburg, where the kids got another Jr. Ranger badge.

Day 10: Niagara Falls

Once you've finished your time in the city, you can spend a day getting back to nature by visiting Niagara Falls . Three hours and 41 minutes (and roughly 228 miles) away from Shenandoah National Park, you can tour the falls at your leisure. Schedule a tour with the Maid Experience to get up close and personal with America's largest waterfall.

This was hands-down the most impressive spot we visited on the East Coast. Yes, it's a bit too touristy and feels commercial, but it's also the most significant natural landmark on this side of the continent.

We didn't spend a lot on the attractions and mostly experienced the falls by walking along the promenade, but we didn't miss taking a boat tour to get closer to the falls.

Day 11-12: Finger Lakes Area

You'll find the Finger Lakes Area just 2 hours and 15 minutes and 137 miles away from Niagara Falls. Spend a few days decompressing from your trip with time out on the water. You'll be able to fish, hike, bike, and swim in any of the area's larger lakes, including:

Spend an afternoon in Watkins Glen State Park , or head out on the town for some low-pressure souvenir shopping. You can also visit the Corning Glass Museum to taste the local art scene. If you happen to visit during the winter, you may even be able to enjoy a few days of skiing!

We enjoyed our time in the Finger Lakes area. Hiking along Watkins Glen was fantastic!

And the glass museum was an unexpected and very pleasant surprise. There were tons of demos and activities, and the kids enjoyed it all. Dan even helped create a glass goldfish, which he got to take home.

Day 13-14: Boston

After a few days out in the Finger Lakes area, you'll want to make your way back to another one of the East Coast's urban hubs. 5 hours and 41 minutes away from the Finger Lakes area, you'll find Boston ready and willing to help you wrap up your trip.

After driving 370 miles, you'll be able to pick up any last-minute souvenirs while hitting some of Boston's most exciting attractions, including:

• The Freedom Trail
• Boston Common
• The Museum of Fine Art
• The Paul Revere House
• The Museum of Science

We spent a couple of days touring Boston. The kids loved the Freedom Trail, which we walked from the Boston Common to the USS Constitution at the harbor.

We didn't check out the museum (having seen too many of those that week), but the USS Consitution was a great tour in its own right.

Itinerary #2: The West Coast

I confess we love the American West. The sheer size, distances, places to see, unique things you can find nowhere else, and scenery like no other.

This itinerary will get you the very best of the urban destinations of the southern west coast, with a taste of Vegas.

Days 1-3: San Francisco

There's no better place to start a tour of the West Coast than San Francisco. The city is full of exciting attractions, including:

• The Golden Gate Bridge
• Golden Gate Park
• Alcatraz Island
• Fisherman's Wharf

You can spend a few nights in San Francisco before moving on to your next spot. To date, we've spent three weeks touring San Francisco and the cities of the Bay Area. There's much to see and do, and we love the atmosphere.

If you're a science geek like us, don't miss out on the California Academy of Science in Golden Gate Park.

Day 4: Monterey

After a few days in California's cultural north, you'll want to head south two hours and 119 miles to Monterey. This resort town is one of the best places to rest, relax, and enjoy the best that California has to offer.

While you're in the area, you can visit:

• The Monterey Bay Aquarium
• Cannery Row
• Old Fisherman's Wharf
• Carmel-by-the-Sea
• Point Lobos

Monterey is a perfect family destination. We ended up spending over a week there in total and never got bored. You can read more here about things to do in Monterey and about day trips around Monterey .

Days 5-6: Highway 1 to LA

Once you're finished in Monterey, you'll want to take the scenic Highway 1 down to Los Angeles. You'll want to spread this trip over two days, stopping in Morro Bay overnight.

As you go, enjoy the unmatched view of the Pacific Ocean - the highlight of any West Coast road trip.

It's scenic, and we do not regret driving it along this bucket list road. However, it is a very long drive, and the road is pretty curvy in parts, so if you're prone to car sickness or don't have time, this could be a place to save a day.

If you're going on the drive, check out this post about driving Highway 1 from San Francisco to Los Angeles for more information on what to see and do along the way.

Days 7-9: Los Angeles

At the end of your five-hour, 318-mile trip, you'll have made your way to Los Angeles. Take a few days to rest and visit many of the city's hotspots, including:

• Universal Studios Hollywood
• Disneyland Park
• The Hollywood Sign
• The Hollywood Walk-of-Fame
• Santa Monica Pier

LA can be a lot of fun but very urban, and traffic can be difficult. If you're visiting, try to avoid driving during rush hour. Our favorite and most "LA" thing was to tour the Walk of Fame and then catch a movie at the official Disney El Capitan Theatre . And sure, Disney and Universal Studios!

Days 10-11: San Diego

After a few days in Los Angeles, it'll be time to move on. San Diego is two hours and 120 miles away from Los Angeles and has as many attractions for you to explore as the City of Angels. Whether you're looking to relax or want to keep the high of your road trip going, you can visit any of the following spots:

• Black's Beach
• Coronado Beaches
• San Diego Zoo
• Balboa Park

San Diego was the first place we ever visited in the United States. We fell in love with the city and spent ten days there. It's an awesome destination for families with young kids, and the long stay allowed us to make the most of the multi-day passes to local theme parks and attractions.

If you want to save, check out our list of free, fun things to do in San Diego .

Days 12-14: Las Vegas

However, California doesn't make up the full extent of the West Coast. After San Diego, Nevada, waits for you. Take the five-hour, 332-mile drive out of California, and you'll find yourself in Las Vegas.

There's more to do in the area than visit casinos. If you're looking to end the last two days of your trip on a high note, you'll want to try and visit the following attractions:

• Red Rock Canyon National Park
• Fremont Street Experience
• The Neon Museum
• Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay
• Adventuredome Theme Park

I have to say we're not huge fans of Sin City, especially not with kids. However, there's plenty to do; if you're not traveling with kids, this is a bucket-list destination.

You may love or hate Las Vegas, but it's unlikely to leave you indifferent. And if things get too hectic, there are plenty of cool things to do in the area. Check out this list of awesome day trips around Las Vegas for more ideas.

One place that many people don't want to miss out on is the Grand Canyon - you can take an organized tour from any Las Vegas hotel or even book a helicopter ride above the greatest canyon on earth.

Zion National Park and Bryce National Park are also not far away, and you can switch a couple of days in Vegas and add them to your plans.

Itinerary #3: California & Las Vegas

What if you want to add a bit of wilderness to your tour of the west coast? You can diversify the previous itinerary with  a trip to Yosemite , so long as Tioga Pass is open. We recommend traveling in the spring, summer, and fall when the weather will be most agreeable and the wildlife most active.

Be prepared for a long trip over two weeks, and you'll be traveling 945 miles! Let's highlight some of the stops you'll come across along the way.

Days 1-3: Los Angeles

We've already touched on Los Angeles' many appealing hotspots. You'll start this modified road trip in the City of Angels. For your first three days, you'll have ample opportunity to explore the area's many theme parks, beaches, and other attractions.

Days 4-5: Highway 1

After that initial taster, you'll want to take the road via Highway 1 and follow the coast of California up to Monterey. You can break this five-hour trip up into two days, stopping at Morro Bay for rest after your first day.

Be sure to have your camera ready - nothing beats the view off Highway 1.

Day 6: Monterey

Once you've pulled off the highway, you can spend a day exploring the nooks and crannies that make up Monterey. A solid 318 miles away from Los Angeles, you'll enjoy a bit of urban energy without the stand-still traffic.

Days 7-9: San Francisco

After Monterey, driving to San Francisco is two hours and 119 miles. You can spend two days in this sprawling city, traveling via cable car and enjoying the local food scene. Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge or sun yourself on the beach before hitting the road again.

Days 10-11: Yosemite

After your trip north through California, it'll be time to head east. You'll drive for just over three hours and 167 miles to reach the outskirts of Yosemite. Over the next day and a half, you can explore the national park while staying in Yosemite Valley.

Yosemite National Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Entry fees break down as follows:

• Motorcycle: $30
• A non-commercial vehicle with 15 or fewer passengers: $35
• Bicycle, horse, or foot entry: $20

You can camp in the park if you've made a reservation.

Yosemite is one of the most beautiful places we've ever visited. If your trip happens anytime between April and early July, you must visit to see the waterfalls in all their glory. We visited the park three times already, and I know we'll be back!

Check out this post for even more gorgeous photos of Yosemite National Park .

Day 12: Drive from Yosemite to Las Vegas

After you've spent a few days hiking, biking, canoeing, and enjoying one of the United State's best known-natural attractions, you can pack up your bags and head south down into Nevada.

After a six-hour and 341-mile drive, you'll find yourself in the Entertainment Capital of the World. There's more than one way to cover the distance and plenty to see en route. Read this guide to learn more about driving from Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park .

Days 13-14: Las Vegas

You can spend the last two days of your trip enjoying all of the wonders Las Vegas has to offer. This could mean visiting one of the many casinos on the Las Vegas strip or touring the local theme parks and other attractions.

Once you've reached the end of your visit, you can head home via car or flight through McCarran International Airport.

Itinerary #4: The Rocky Mountains

Probably our favorite area in the entire continent. For summer-specific road trips, you can always take to the peaks of the Rocky Mountains. By far the longest of the road trips noted here, this itinerary will take you over 1,107 miles in two weeks.

Pack your bags carefully, and research gasoline prices ahead of time! This trip may be long, but it's well worth the time.

Day 1: Salt Lake City

You'll start on your Rocky Mountain adventure when you land in Salt Lake City, Utah. Get comfortable for your first day by taking a leisurely tour around town. Salt Lake City is full of exciting places to eat and visit, including:

• Temple Square, for Mormon architecture
• Red Butte Garden

Be sure to book a hotel for the night - you'll need all the rest you can get for the days ahead.

Salt Lake City is a great base for starting and ending a tour of the Rockies. Half a day to a day exploring the city itself is probably enough unless you are very interested in the local history.

Day 2: Drive to Jackson, WY

After your day in Salt Lake City, it'll be time to pack up and head towards Wyoming. You'll spend roughly four and a half hours on the road as you drive toward Jackson , covering 277 miles. Be sure to stop for food and photos along the way!

Day 3-4: Jackson and Grand Tetons National Park

After spending a relaxing night in Jackson, you'll have two days to explore the town and the nearby Grand Teton National Park . Grand Teton is a mere eight minutes from the center of Jackson, making it a quick and easy trip for anyone looking to stretch their legs or spot some of the state's iconic wildlife.

Grand Tetons National Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You'll ideally want to visit in the summertime to avoid the worst weather. Entry fees break down as follows:

• Private vehicles: $35
• Motorcycles: $30
• Foot or bicycle entry: $20

Register for an annual pass on the national park's website.

We spent a total of a week here, and that wasn't nearly enough! This is a gorgeous park, and Jackson is a fantastic Western-style town. The only downside to visiting Jackson is that it's also incredibly expensive.

Here's a tip: Look for accommodation at least half a year before your trip and search for vacation rentals and condos. You should spend at least a few hours in Jackson and at least a day and a half hiking in the Grand Tetons.

Days 5-8: Yellowstone National Park

Once you've finished exploring the Grand Tetons, it's time to head towards the west's other iconic state park: Yellowstone. Drive just over two hours and 100 miles from Jackson, and you can explore Yellowstone National Park at your leisure.

We recommend staying overnight in the park - camping or at one of the local resorts - to get the full Yellowstone experience.

Yellowstone National Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Entry fees break down as follows:

• Single vehicles: $35
• Bikers or foot traffic: $20

In a nutshell, Yellowstone is awesome. A unique combination of out-of-this-world scenery, wildlife, and a unique backstory. We spent three weeks in this park, and I'm sure we'll be back. Here's our top 10 list for visiting Yellowstone .

Day 9: Drive to the Denver area

After a few days in Yellowstone, you can head towards Colorado and the broader Denver area. This leg of your journey will take just under ten hours and will have you crossing 587 miles.

Read our 37 road-tripping tips to ensure these long drives are easy and fun!

Day 10: Rocky Mountain National Park: Estes Park to Granby via Trail Ridge Road

Once settled in the Estes Parks area , you can visit Rocky Mountain National Park. Take Trail Ridge Road into the park to enjoy truly unbelievable views. The drive down Trail Ridge Road will take an hour and a half for 74 miles.

Once you arrive at Rocky Mountain National Park, you can stretch your legs on many hiking and biking trails.

Rocky Mountain National Park is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week - though do be careful if you're visiting during the colder months of the year, as snowfall can block off some of the roads. The park's entry fees break down as follows:

• Hikers or walkers: $20

You can spend the night after you visit Breckenridge for a smoother morning drive or head straight to Independence Pass.

Rocky Mountain is a gorgeous national park that many people ignore. Spectacular scenery and lots of hiking trails. Remember that the mountains are tall here, so you must be prepared for mountain conditions even in the summertime. 

This picture was taken along the Trail Ridge road in the middle of June.

The weather was much better on lower elevations that day:

Day 11: Drive along the Independence Pass & hike the Maroon Bells

You'll want to leave Rocky Mountain National Park via Independence Pass the next day- or that same evening. Take some time out of your 45-minute drive to hike the Maroon Bell.

Once you're satisfied with the local views and exercise, you can follow the pass out to I-70. Alternatively, you can spend the night in local Aspen to enjoy local cuisine and relaxation.

Driving the Independence Pass and hiking the Maroon Bells were highlights of visiting Colorado. So much so that we have a post dedicated to driving the Independence Pass. Aspen is an interesting little ski town; it's quite fancy. Possibly too fancy for our taste.

Day 12-14: Drive via I-70 to Denver Area

As your trip ends, you'll want to take the I-70 back into the Denver area. You can use these last two days of your trip to visit the places you didn't see in Denver previously. Ski, shop, eat, and make the most of your time.

Once satisfied with your stay, you can head to the Denver International Airport to return home.

Itinerary #5: Florida

This trip through Florida will take you over 909 miles in two weeks. Tour Florida between winter and early spring, and you'll be able to enjoy some of the state's biggest attractions without worrying about traffic or crowds.  Here's more about the best time to visit Florida .

Day 1: Miami

Where better to start on a trip through Florida than in Miami ? As one of the largest urban centers in the state, you'll find plenty to do in the city alone. You're also free to use Miami as a base of operations, going back and forth as you explore the rest of the state.

Some of the best attractions in Miami include:

• The Bayside Marketplace
• Jungle Island
• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
• Miami Seaquarium
• Perez Art Museum Miami

Be sure to try a Cuban while you're in town! There's nothing quite like the Miami good scene.

Day 2: Everglades NP Flamingo area

48 minutes and 41 miles from Miami, you'll find one of Florida's largest natural wonders: the Everglades. On the second day of your trip through the Sunshine State, you'll want to make your way down to the NP Flamingo area.

Open between 8 AM and 4:30 PM between November and April, the NP Flamingo area is the perfect spot to canoe, hike, bike, and get a closer look at some of Florida's native wildlife.

Make sure you read our detailed guide about visiting the Everglades National Park .

Days 3-4: The Florida Keys

You'll want to head further south once you've spent the day in the Everglades. You'll find the Florida Keys 48 minutes and 36 miles away from the Everglades. The Florida Keys are the perfect marriage of bustling and relaxed.

You can spend two days exploring the island's nooks and crannies or sunning yourself on the beaches.

Some of the Keys' best attractions include:

• Molasses Reef
• Dolphins Plus Bayside
• The Overseas Heritage Trail
• Island Dolphin Care
• Key West Sunset Sail

At the end of your days, you can return to Key West and Key Largo to rest and recharge for the day. Here's our list of the best things to do in the Florida Keys .

Day 5: Fort Lauderdale and the Treasure Coast area

Fort Lauderdale and the Treasure Coast are just north of Palm Beach. The city is only 91 miles and an hour and a half away from the Florida Keys. While you're in the city, you'll be able to visit:

• The Historic Stranahan House Museum
• The Museum of Discovery and Science
• Butterfly World
• Bonnet House Museum and Gardens

Day 6: Kennedy Space Center & Ocala

The Kennedy Space Center is 170 miles from Fort Lauderdale and is Florida's hub for space activity. Daily admission for adults costs $57 and $47 for children.

There are applicable discounts for active military representatives and seniors. Once you've paid your way in, you'll be able to tour the on-site attractions like:

• Heroes & Legends
• Behind the Gates
• Race to the Moon
• Shuttle: A Ship Like No Other
• NASA: Now + Next
• Plan Your Mission

While you can make the 3-hour road trip back to the city, spending the evening after your tour in Ocala will be much easier.

Day 7: Silver Springs State Park or Homosassa State Park

If you're looking for a day away from Florida's urban centers, you can drive twelve miles to one of the local state parks. Silver Springs State Park and Homosassa State Park are nearby and will offer you a full day of relaxation and exploration.

• Silver Springs State Park is open from 8 AM until sunset all year round, and it only costs $2 per person to enter.
• Homosassa State Park is open weekly between 9 AM and 5:30 PM. Children can enter for $5, and adults can enter for $13.

You can hike, canoe, and bike at both parks.

Days 8-10: Orlando

After a day of relaxation, why not head to one of the most magical places on earth? Orlando is only an hour and a half and 76 miles from Ocala. While there are other attractions besides Universal and Disney, visiting Orlando without dropping by one of the two amusement parks is almost impossible. Read more about the cost of a trip to Orlando .

• The Disney Parks are open between 7 AM and 11 PM daily. A one-day ticket costs $109 for adult visitors.
• Universal Orlando opens at 9 AM, and its closing time varies. A one-day ticket costs $110 for adult visitors.

Day 11-12: Tampa Bay area

After exploring Orlando's theme parks for a few days, you can drive an hour and a half to the Tampa Bay area. After your 85-mile drive, you'll be able to spend a few days coming down from your theme park visit while exploring some of the local attractions, including:

• Anna Maria Island
• Fort De Soto Park
• The Florida Aquarium
• The Salvador Dali Museum
• The Egmont Key National Wildlife Refuge

Day 13: Sarasota and Naples

On your way out of the Tampa Bay area, you'll want to pass through Sarasota and Naples via the Tamiami Trail and Shark Valley. On your way, you can stop by the Everglades National Park and take one last airboat tour. Here's our post about things to do in Naples, FL .

Day 14: Miami

At the end of your trip, you'll want to drive back to Miami to wrap up your tour. After a two-hour and 126-mile drive, you can continue exploring Miami or go to the airport, where you can head back home.

Explore the USA!

There is much to see and do; two weeks is just the beginning! If you can, take more time to explore or plan on returning soon (we usually do both!)

We hope these itineraries inspire you to go out and explore these amazing destinations! Please use the comment form below if you have any questions or comments. We love sharing our experiences and helping others make the most of their traveling!

Hi… Do you have a blog on using public transpo in going around different states or within a state? 🙂

Hi Chariza, I haven’t don’t that myself, but I know people who have traveled across the US using public transport. The best way to get a sense of what’s available for your itinerary would be to use Google maps, set your course and see what comes up under public transport. Good luck!

Comments are closed.

2 Weeks on the East Coast USA: 3 Itineraries

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

The East Coast of America is a travel destination with plenty to offer everyone. The scenic natural beauty and exciting cities, which stretch from Florida in the South to Maine in the North, is an excellent region to explore.

I actually spent 4 weeks in this part of the US during winter . And while I don’t think you need that much, know that there are plenty of things to do if you find yourself in the same situation as I did.

If you have 2 weeks on the East Coast USA, you could do so much. Whether you enjoy skiing, dining, water activities, hiking, or visiting museums, you’ll undoubtedly find a variety of activities to do in the top places in this region.

Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Florida, Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, New Jersey, New York, Maryland, Massachusetts, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia are among the 14 states that comprise the East Coast of the USA. ca

These states border the Atlantic Ocean and provide a variety of coastal activities and sights, including theme parks, beaches, lighthouses, and museums.

RELATED POST: If you prefer to see the West Coast of the US, we also have a 2 weeks in the West Coast USA Itinerary or our 2 weeks in California itinerary

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE VISITING THE EAST COAST OF USA

Before you get on your computer and make some travel arrangements, check out these things you should know about going on a trip to the East Coast of the US. This will help you ensure that you’re visiting at the right time and see if you can make a road trip or need to fly.

When is the best time to go to the East Coast US

This depends on what you want to do. The East Coast of the US is massive and features super unique seasons. For example, if you want to avoid high humidity in Florida, you must go in winter. But that means it will be too cold to explore around New England covered in snow in winter.

If you want to mix the south and northern east coast, it’s best to go during early spring for good weather in the south. At the same time, it’s no longer freezing in New England.

On the other hand, if you just want to see New England, then come visit in the autumn season when the fall foliage is at its best colour at the same time, it’s not too cold yet.

The best time to visit the East Coast of the USA is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) . These months offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and beautiful foliage in the fall.

Peak season is during the summer (June to August) when it’s warmest, attracting the most tourists, especially to beach destinations.

Winter (December to March) can be cold and snowy, especially in the northern parts. The rainy season varies but generally includes spring and summer.

RELATED POST: What to pack for a 2-week trip

Are 2 weeks enough for East Coast USA

Not really. As mentioned before, it’s a big region. However, if you are realistic about the places you want to see and decide to mix flying and driving, 14 days on the East Coast of the US can be ideal.

In this article, I’m featuring three travel itineraries. You can either just cover the south or just the north – which can be done as a road trip on the east coast of the US. But you can drive first if you want to do the entire region.

Then after exploring for seven days, take a flight to your next destination (especially if driving is longer than 6 hours), and then rent another vehicle there. Plan to see about 3-4 cities that are near one another.

Getting around

There is a train system (AMTRAK) on the East Coast, but they’re not well-connected through each state. Most trains travel within each state only, while the others are for cargo shipping only.

There are also public buses, trolleys, and subways you can rely on . Travelling around via bus and train is the most affordable, but it can take a chunk of your time from your limited days.

My best recommendation for getting around the East Coast US is to rent a car, especially if you plan to explore states or cities near one another. Then you can also book tours for city sightseeing to take a break from driving.

Of course, there are ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Lyft. There are plenty of taxis, but they can be very pricey.

If you want to see the northern and southern parts of the East Coast, booking a flight is better when the driving is longer than 5 or 6 hours.

Language and currency

English is the primary language in the US. But once you reach Florida, especially in Miami, many people speak Spanish, and even restaurant signs and menus are displayed in both languages.

On the other hand, if you reach Vermont and Maine, you’ll notice how some people speak French since it’s by the border to the French-Canada Region of Quebec.

The US Dollar (USD) is the main currency here . You can pay both by cash or bank card. Cashless payment is super typical here , and most locals don’t even carry any cash with them. But as a visitor, having at least $50 with you for emergencies is best.

Since this is part of the US, the visa policy in place is not super easy. For travellers from Europe, Canada, Chile, Japan, Australia, South Korea, New Zealand, and Singapore, you can enjoy visa-free and enter the US for up to 6 months.

Other travellers must apply for the US tourist visa (B1/B2) before your planned trip.

What is the average cost for 2 weeks on the East Coast USA

On average, you should budget a minimum of $2,500 for 14 days on the east coast of the US. Accommodation will be the most expensive, followed by gas prices, then food. You can go on a shoestring budget of $1,500 if you stay in hostels or rent a small van where you can sleep.

For luxury, you must have a $4,000 budget to sleep in four or five-star hotels and eat out in top-dollar restaurants.

You should remember that store prices don’t include sales tax. This means that when you checkout, you’re more likely to pay a bit, around 8% more. You are also expected to give a 20%-25% tip in the service industry . This is for services such as food, taxis, hotels, etc.

This estimated budget doesn’t include your flight to and from the US, travel insurance, and travel items you will need.

Other basic travel tips

Medical travel insurance is a must for travelling to the US. The medical cost here, especially for emergencies, is super expensive.

You must get insurance from companies that are global or US-based , so you don’t have to expect to pay out of your pocket and wait for reimbursement. Leaving with a hospital bill in the US could affect your future travels in the country.

I know 2 weeks on the East Coast USA is not a long trip, but it’s undoubtedly not worth the risk of not getting medical insurance coverage. It’s also possible that the immigration officer will ask you to show one, and this might be a reason to deny you entry.

PINNED MAP OF TOP THINGS TO SEE ON EAST COAST US

Click the icon on the top right to enlarge the map. Credit: map data: Google

2 WEEKS ON THE EAST COAST USA ITINERARY

Planning 2 weeks on the East Coast USA can be challenging, as there is so much to see and do in the region. However, I have curated some example itineraries that can serve as a guide for you.

These itineraries include one for first-time visitors, one for a tour of New England, and one for a trip along the Southeast Coast.

The suggested itineraries are not mandatory, you can always make your own itinerary , depending on your interests and preferences. It’s important to note that the East Coast is a huge region with many more places to visit and things to do.

MUST-READ: 2 weeks in the US (across the country – 7 itineraries)

Itinerary #1: First-time visitor (Boston, New York, Washington D.C., Miami)

This itinerary for 2 weeks on the East Coast USA is designed for those visiting the East Coast for the first time and looking to experience some of the most iconic cities.

It includes New York City, Boston, Washington D.C., and Miami stops. These cities offer diverse experiences and attractions, providing a comprehensive overview of this region.

Apart from that, this itinerary is ideal, particularly if you have children who want to go to Disneyland, as it affords plenty of rides, parades, and shows that will keep them entertained for hours on end.

I highly recommend coming in the late spring or late summer season. It has warm weather and is not too humid.

This itinerary is most efficiently done by air travel (domestic flight), with the option to fly into Boston and fly back home from Miami.

However, if you prefer to drive, it is possible to do so from Boston to Washington D.C. However, remember that you must leave your rented car and catch a flight to Miami for the last leg of the trip.

Boston and around for 4 days

Boston, the capital of Massachusetts, is an exciting city with world-class museums, beautiful parks, and green spaces. If you’re interested in higher education, stroll through the campus of Harvard University, one of the most prestigious universities in the world.

You can also check out Boston Common, America’s oldest public park, which provides visitors an excellent opportunity to relax and enjoy the outdoors. During my visit here, which is about a week, I went for a run at the Boston Common and it’s also where the Freedom Trail starts.

Located in the heart of the New England Region, this city is an excellent starting point for day trips. You can see some of America’s most iconic historic sites and attractions there. For those looking for a change of scenery, you can plan a day trip to the long beaches of Cape Cod.

New York City and around for 4 days

New York City is a global destination renowned for its energy and iconic landmarks. Tourists are attracted to this bustling metropolis to enjoy the famous Broadway shows, indulge in world-class shopping and dining experiences, and explore the many popular tourist destinations.

I was a typical tourist in New York. I went to Times Square, saw a show on Broadway, ate at a local pizza place, saw the Lady Liberty, and walked everywhere. I honestly understand why many people dream of living here,

In terms of safety in New York , where there are lots of homeless, there’s also a big presence of police in the touristy areas. So, in general, I felt quite safe during my trip there.

The Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Central Park are among the must-see attractions that draw visitors to the city.

The most popular option from Boston to New York City is a direct flight with a duration of 1 hr 20 min, although you still have to arrive at the airport at least an hour and a half before your flight (depending on Boston traffic and how busy the airport).

On the other hand, the road distance from Boston to New York City is 364.8 km (226.7 miles), and you can reach it by a 4 hr 40 min-car ride via route I-84. I took the bus from Boston and it took a bit over 6 hours since the bus was not going through a direct route.

Washington D.C for 3 days

Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is an ideal destination for those interested in politics as it is home to many of the country’s most important government buildings.

Apart from that, The National Mall is a must-see attraction, featuring the city’s most prominent landmarks, such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Smithsonian Museums.

Visitors also have the opportunity to take a tour inside the White House , though it is important to note that these tours must be arranged in advance through your embassy or Congressional office.

There are several daily flights between New York City and Washington D.C., about 1 hr 23 min. When driving, the quickest route you should follow is I-95 S which is roughly 4 hr 25 min across a total distance of approximately 364 km (226.2 mi).

Florida for 4 days

I also thought of Florida is the destination for people of all ages. Bring the kids to the theme park and the adults to the beach and the bars.

Anyone looking for a magical and unforgettable vacation experience will find four incredible theme parks at Orlando’s Walt Disney World , including Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each has unique attractions, making it the best place to conclude your two weeks on East Coast USA trip.

Located on the waterfront in Miami, The Bayside Marketplace is the place to be if you’re looking for a place to shop and dine, as it features over 120 stores and 30 restaurants. Visiting Miami and Orlando on the same trip can be a great way to experience the best of Florida in 4 days.

You can take a 2 hr 48 min direct flight from Washington D.C. to Miami . The non-stop flight between Washington D.C. and Orlando is approximately 2 hr 40 min. You can also fly to Orlando, spend a day or two, and then drive down from Orland to Miami, which takes just a little over 3 hours to finish your 2 weeks on the East Coast USA

Itinerary #2: New England Route (Boston, Coastal Maine/Acadia, Burlington/White Mountain National Forest, Springfield, Providence)

History buffs will enjoy visiting these places since this itinerary takes you through the first colony area of the British Empire in the Americas.

The route passes through charming coastal towns, picturesque countryside, and bustling cities, offering a diverse range of experiences for travellers who enjoy a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

The Maine Archipelago is a group of islands situated off the coast of Maine, known for its scenic beauty. Some places you need to add to your itinerary include The Permaquid Point Lighthouse, Old Orchard Beach, The Farnsworth Art Museum, and Acadia National Park.

I recommend booking a flight to Boston as your starting point and catching home from Boston or Providence at the end of your trip to make it more of a circular itinerary.

One of the major draws of the New England Route is during autumn, when the region’s trees put on a spectacular display of fall foliage, making it an ideal time to explore the region’s parks, forests, and countryside.

However, the New England Route is best avoided in winter unless you plan to visit ski resorts. If you’d rather spend time in nature than the city, skip Burlington and head straight to White Mountain National Forest.

Boston for 3 days

Boston is a premier destination for those interested in the history of America’s colonial and Revolutionary War eras since it holds more history of this period than any other in the country, making it an ideal starting point for an East Coast USA trip.

Unsurprisingly, its main historical sites have become a famous pilgrimage for Americans and international visitors seeking to understand this period of time.

Riding the iconic Swan Boats around the lake surrounding the Boston Public Garden’s centre is one of the city’s most memorable experiences for people of all ages.

Popular tourist destinations in Boston include the Freedom Trail , a 3-mile long trail showcasing 16 historical sites, including the Old South Meeting House and the USS Constitution Museum. It took me about 3 hours to finish this trail as I took my time in stopping at every site.

Coast Maine and Acadia National Park for 3 days

The Permaquid Point Lighthouse offers magnificent coast and Atlantic Ocean views. Old Orchard Beach is a classic beach resort that embraces its retro charm as it is New England’s only remaining full-scale amusement park on a beach that will delight visitors of all ages.

In addition, The Farnsworth Art Museum has an exceptional collection of art by Maine-affiliated artists and its Wyeth Center, showcasing the works of N.C., Andrew, and James Wyeth. It is a must-see for fans of the Wyeth family.

For outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, Acadia National Park , located on the coast of Maine, extends a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, cycling, and kayaking.

The park is even home to Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak at 1,530 feet, providing views of the coast and islands. Other highlights in the park are Bass Harbor Head Lighthouse and Thunder Hole.

If you’re looking for a beautiful road trip, pack your bags, fill up your gas tank, and hit the road from Boston to Acadia National Pa rk. With a distance of 451.3 km (280.4 mi), the drive is about 4 hr 28 min and takes you along the scenic route of I-95 N.

Burlington or White Mountain National Forest for 3 days

You can choose between White Mountain and Burlington, depending on what you want to do and see. You can see both, but your schedule will be tight.

Suppose you’re looking for an unforgettable experience in Burlington. In that case, you should definitely experience taking a cruise in Lake Champlain as it presents stunning views of the mountain, and provides an excellent opportunity to learn about the history of the lake and the Revolutionary War.

With over 100 stores and restaurants, the Church Street Marketplace, a charming pedestrian mall, is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.

The White Mountain National Forest is a nature lover’s paradise, offering a wide range of outdoor activities year-round. One of the area’s main draws is its high peaks, including the iconic Mount Washington, the tallest mountain in New England.

Adventure-seekers can take on the challenging Franconia Ridge hike , which features a 9-mile loop trail with views of Mount Lincoln, Mount Lafayette, and Little Haystack Mountain.

On the other hand, there are also beginner-friendly options like the Flume Gorge hike, a 2-mile round-trip trail that leads to waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain views.

From Acadia National Park, you can drive directly to Burlington , which is around 6 hours, taking up 333 miles.

If you want to stop at White Mountain first and spend a night or two, the drive from Acadia National Park is approximately 3 hr 32 min through route I-95 S which spans 294.7 km (183.1 mi).

Then continue your drive from White Mountain National Forest to Burlington. This will take you under 1 hr 44 min on a scenic route along US-302 W and I-89 N with an entire distance of 136 km (84.5 mi).

Springfield for 2 days

Packed with a dozen thrilling coasters and a waterpark, get your adrenaline pumping at Six Flags, the largest theme park in New England . You can also pay homage to the sport of basketball at the Basketball Hall of Fame, which honours over 400 star players and coaches, featuring exhibits, skills challenges, and shooting contests.

Step back in history at the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, and you’ll be at the very spot where guns that won the American Revolution were manufactured.

If you plan to get from Burlington to Springfield, you can drive by car down routes I-89 S and I-91 S. The trip will take about 3 hr 12 min and spans 336.5 km (209.1 mi).

Alternatively, if you’re skipping Burlington, Springfield is just a 2 hr 43 min drive away from White Mountain National Park via I-91 S for the entire distance of 255.9 km (159 mi).

You can also skip Springfield and drive directly from Burlington to Providence, which will take 4 hours (264 miles/424.8 km). Fro, White Mountain National Forest to Providence, that’s a 2 hr and 45 min journey covering 176 miles (283 km).

Providence for 3 days

Providence is the capital city of Rhode Island State. It is rich in history with incredible New England architecture, you can visit the State House and the John Brown House Museum. You can also dive into the culinary where you can check out food trucks and fantastic seafood dishes.

While at the park, visit the Botanical Center, New England’s largest public indoor display garden that boasts 12,000 square feet of gardens.

Whether you’re a fan of French Impressionists, Japanese prints, ancient Egyptian designs, or contemporary art, you’ll be able to indulge your artistic passions and discover new favourites at the RISD Museum of Art.

Travelling by car is a flexible way to get from Springfield to Providence. The quickest route is to go along I-90 E, which takes an average time of 1 hr 29 min from a distance of 136.5 km (84.8 mi).

Itinerary #3: Southeast Coast (Miami, Orlando, Jacksonville, Savannah, Atlanta)

If you’re looking for a fun-filled adventure on the Southeast Coast of the United States , look no further, as I have the perfect itinerary for your 14 days on the East Coast USA.

Start your journey in Miami, where you can soak up the sun on Miami Beach. Next, head to Orlando, home to the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

From there, travel to Jacksonville, where you can explore the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens. Then, head to Savannah and take in the views of River Street. Finally, end your journey in Atlanta and visit the famous Georgia Aquarium.

This route is ideal for a road trip since the distance between the cities is not too long. I recommend booking a flight to Miami and ending your trip to Atlanta, where you can fly back home.

Miami for 3 days days

Escape to the sun-soaked paradise of Miami, a premier vacation destination in South Florida known for its picturesque beaches. Miami Beach is a seaside haven with peaceful neighbourhoods, lively entertainment hotspots, and miles of soft-sand beaches.

Take a stroll and admire the pastel-coloured buildings from the 1930s and 1940s in the Art Deco Historic District.

Experience the wild side of Florida with a visit to The Everglades National Park , where visitors can witness the incredible array of wildlife, including alligators, snakes, crocodiles, and more, in their natural habitat.

When it comes to beautiful beaches, you can also spend 2 weeks in Hawaii .

Orlando for 3 days

You can’t spend 2 weeks on the East Coast of the US without seeing at least one theme park or themed museum. If you’re looking for an out-of-this-world experience, add the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex to your list of day trips since it provides a glimpse into one of NASA’s most well-known operations centres.

Another must-visit destination is Discovery Cov e, which allows you to interact with ocean life in a natural setting. You can sign up for snorkelling and discover coral reed with a full dive helmet. You’ll also see stingrays, and even swim with dolphins.

For fans of the Harry Potter series, the Wizarding World of Harry Potter is the place to be. It is designed to immerse visitors in the magical world of Harry Potter, such as experiencing thrilling rides, sampling delicious butterbeer, trying wand magic classes, and so on.

The fastest way to get from Miami to Orlando is by plane , with a 1 hr 9 min flight duration. If you prefer to travel by car, the distance between the two cities is around 378.5 km (235.2 mi) which is around 3 hr 28 min along Florida’s Turnpike.

Jacksonville for 2 days

One of the main reasons to visit Jacksonville is its beautiful beaches, like Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach, making it a perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

Apart from that, Jacksonville is also home to several cultural attractions, such as the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens and the Kingsley Plantation, which give visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history.

Foodies will also appreciate the diverse range of dining options available in this city, from seafood restaurants and steakhouses to craft breweries and bars.

The road trip between Orlando and Jacksonville takes about 2 hr and 10 min , covering a distance of 229.8 km (142.9 mi). You can take routes I-4E and I-95 N.

Savannah for 3 days

From grand old mansions to lush parks with fountains and sprawling moss-covered trees , Savannah exudes a timeless elegance that is truly breathtaking. Strolling down Bull Street is the best way to experience the preserved Savannah Historic District.

With its cobblestone streets and restored warehouses, enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants on River Street or take a boat tour along the Savannah River to get the best riverfront photo ops.

You can expect the trip from Jacksonville to Savannah , which spans 223.5 km (138.9 mi), by driving to take 2 hr 4 min through route I-95 N.

Atlanta for 3 days

Whether you’re an art enthusiast or simply looking for a fun and educational experience for the whole family, the High Museum of Art is a great choice.

If you’re looking for a serene escape amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, look no further than the 30-acre Atlanta Botanical Garden .

The most convenient way to travel from Savannah to Atlanta is to take a flight, which typically takes about 1 hr 11 min with Delta Airlines. If you drive, the quickest route is to take I-16 W to I-75 N . The estimated arrival time is 3 hr 52 min through the entire distance of approximately 399.1 km (248 mi).

THINGS TO SEE AND DO IN (per city)

Atlanta, georgia.

• Save money and get an Atlanta CityPass
• High Museum of Art
• Atlanta – learn about Black History and Civil Rights
• Martin Luther King, Jr. National Historical Park
• World of Coca-Cola – get your skip-the-line ticket
• Piedmont Park
• Centennial Olympic Park
• Atlanta Botanical Garden
• Day trip to North Georgia Wine Country – join a tour
• Stone Mountain Park

Burlington, Vermont

Boston, massachusetts.

• For exploring Boston downtown, get a hop-on, hop-off trolley pass or get a Go City pass
• Cape Cod National Seashore
• Boston Common and Public Garden Swan Boats
• Plimoth Patuxet
• Spooky Tours – Haunting of Salem – Haunting Salem or Ghosts and Gravestones Trolley
• Museum of Science
• Fenway Park – join a tour with a local guide
• Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
• Freedom Trail – discover with history and food
• Museum of Fine Arts
• Day trip to Martha’s Vineyard – book a tour with a round-trip ferry
• Faneuil Hall
• Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum – enjoy an interactive tour
• Crane Beach
• Boston Harbor Islands State Park
• Carson Beach
• John F. Kennedy Presidential Museum & Library
• Harvard University – explore with a student guide
• Wachusett Mountain
• Jiminy Peak
• Learn about the cuisine of Massachusettes – book a walking tasting tour or underground donut tour or buffet cruise at Boston Harbor

Coastal Maine/White Mountain National Forest

Miami, florida.

• Miami – cruise to see Millionaire homes or join a speedboat sightseeing or evening cruise on Biscayne Bay
• Vizcaya Museum and Gardens
• Everglades National Park – book Everglades Airboat Tour and Wildlife Tour
• Deering Estate
• Fort Lauderdale – get a water taxi all-day pass
• Key West – sunset sail and live music
• Coral Castle
• St. Augustine – get a hop-on, hop-off trolley pass
• Go Food and Drinks Exploration – join Little Havana food walking tour (Miami)

New York City

• Discover New York – on a one-day sightseeing tour or purchase a New York CityPass
• Central Park
• Manhattan – go on a helicopter ride
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Statue of Liberty – combo with Ellis Island tour
• Times Square
• One World Observatory – get your admission ticket
• Brooklyn Bridge
• 9/11 Memorial Museum – purchase an entry ticket
• Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum
• Summit One Vanderbilt – read the tour reviews
• Empire State Building – skip the line and go to 102nd Deck
• The High Line
• American Museum of Natural History – get your pass
• Rockefeller Center
• Friends Experience – visit the production set
• Top of The Rock
• Ice Cream Museum – book a ticket in advance
• Bryant Park
• Go on culinary experience – visit Chinatown and Little Italy or Greenwich Village or Brooklyn food tour or Hell’s Kitchen Tour
• Washington Square Park
• Enjoy a dinner cruise

Orlando, Florida

• Walt Disney World Resort
• Magic Kingdom Park
• Orlando – enjoy a pirate show with dinner
• Universal Orlando Resort
• Rock Spring – go kayaking with a glass-bottomed boat
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
• Snorkel with Manatee – tour with a photographer
• SeaWorld Orlando
• Tampa Bay – purchase a city pass
• The Dalí (Salvador Dalí Museum)
• LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
• Go to Kennedy Space Center – reserve an entry ticket

Savannah, Georgia

• Explore Savannah – by land and sea tour or hop-on, hop-off ancient trolley or join a narrated trolley tour or Riverboat Cruise
• The Davenport House Museum
• Wormsloe Plantation – join a tour from Savannah
• Savannah Theater
• Spooky Savannah – check this history and haunted tour
• Forsyth Park
• Tybee Island – book a guided tour
• Service Brewing Company
• Victorian Districts – combo with Bonaventure Cemetery tour
• Discover food and drinks culture – culinary and culture walking tour or pub crawl and food
• Enjoy nightlife – Savannah Drag Queen Show or Comedy Trolley Tour
• The Olde Pink House
• Ride a helicopter on a scenic tour – read the reviews

Washington D.C.

• Learn about Washington DC – in a one-day tour or on a bike tour or Capitol Hill guided tour
• Library of Congress
• United States Capitol and Capitol Hill – book a Moonlight tour by trolley or simply get your reserved entry pass
• Lincoln Memorial
• Discover DC Monuments – via big bus hop-on, hop-off or a night tour
• Washington Monument
• The White House – advance planning must be done
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Mall – tour on an electric vehicle
• Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin
• Mount Vernon – do a day trip combo with Alexandria
• National Gallery of Art
• Smithsonian National Zoological Park and Museum – visit the museum with a private guide
• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• Arlinton National Cemetry – walking tour with changing of guards
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• National Harbor Capital Wheel – check the ticket price
• International Spy Museum
• Try out local food and drinks – on a food and history tour or pub crawl and history or cruise and gourmet

MUST-TRY AMERICAN DISHES, DRINKS, AND SNACKS

You’ll visit lots of cities and at least eight states if you follow one of the 2 weeks on the East Coast USA itinerary. This means you can explore this region’s cuisine because it’s a must-not-miss.

The food scene from New England to the seafood capital of Maryland to the southern region is impeccable. Whether you like meat and seafood or are a dessert fan, there’s something for everyone. Heck, if you’re a brewery chaser, don’t miss out on discovering various breweries throughout your trip. Here’s a list of must-try dishes from the East Coast of the US:

• Lobster Roll (New England)
• Pizza (New York)
• Clam Chowder (New England)
• Philly Cheesesteak (Philadelphia)
• Chesapeake Bay Blue Crabs (Maryland/Washington D.C.)
• Bagels and Lox (New York)
• Barbecue (South or North Carolina)
• Crab Cakes (Maryland/Washington D.C.)
• Cuban Sandwich (Flordia)
• Shrimp and Grits
• Buffalo Wings (New York)
• Portuguese Sweet Bread (New England)
• Key Lime Pie (Florida)
• Clambake (New England)
• Craft Beers (from Maine to Florida)
• Bourbon (Southern)
• Eggnog (Northeast)
• Cider (Northeast)

ACCOMMODATIONS

• Affordable: The Verb Hotel or HI Boston Hostel or Boston Homestel
• Mid-range: Oasis Guest House or DoubleTree by Hilton or The Godfrey Hotel
• Luxury: Encore Boston Harbor or InterContinental Boston or Seaport Hotel® or Hyatt Place

Portland, Maine

• Affordable: Hampton Inn & Suites or AC Hotel by Marriott or Inn at St John Portland
• Mid-range: Canopy by Hilton or Courtyard by Marriott or Embassy Suites by Hilton
• Luxury: The Press Hotel
• Affordable:
• Mid-range: Green Mountain Suites Hotel or Starlight Inn or Homewood Suites by Hilton
• Luxury: Hotel Vermont Burlington

Springfield, Massachusetts

• Mid-range: Fairfield Inn & Suites or Holiday Inn Express or Hampton Inn & Suites

Providence, Rhode Island

• Mid-range: Residence Inn or Hampton Inn & Suites
• Luxury: Renaissance Providence Downtown Hotel or Homewood Suites by Hilton
• Affordable: The Local NY or HI New York City Hostel or West Side YMCA
• Mid-range: The Herald by LuxUrban or Raven Hotel by Wyndham
• Luxury: Riu Plaza Manhattan Time Square or Arlo Midtown or citizenM New York Time Square
• Affordable: Duo Housing or Duo Nomad
• Mid-range: Washington Plaza Hotel or citizenM Washington DC or HighRoad Washington DC
• Luxury: JW Marriott or Sofitel Lafayette Square or Hotel Madera or Riggs Washington DC
• Affordable: Red Roof Inn or La Quinta by Wyndham or Microtel Inn by Wyndham
• Midrange: Reverb by Hard Rock Downtown or The Darwin Hotel
• Luxury: The Candler by Hilton or Glenn Hotel Autograph Collection
• Affordable: Red Roof Inn & Suites Savannah Airport or Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham
• Mid-range: Hotel Indigo or The Thunderbird Inn
• Luxury: Mansion, Kessler Collection or The Marshall House

Jacksonville, Florida

• Affordable: Econo Lodge or Emerson Inn
• Mid-range: DoubleTree by Hilton or Microtel Inn & Suites by Wyndham
• Luxury: Renu or Hyatt Regency or Aloft Airport Hotel
• Affordable: Hotel Monreale Express or Avanti Palms Resort or Orlando Palms
• Mid-range: Wyndham Garden Airport or Avid Hotels by IHG or Ramada by Wyndham
• Luxury: Hyatt Regency or Caribe Royale or Buena Vista Suites
• Affordable: Art Hostel Wynwood Concept
• Mid-range: Hampton Inn/Coconut Grove or Hilton Garden Inn
• Luxury: East Miami or InterContinental or The Elser Hotel Miami

SUMMARY OF 2 WEEKS ON THE EAST COAST USA

From bustling cities to quaint coastal towns, the East Coast offers diverse experiences. The East Coast is also a foodie’s paradise, with various cuisines and dining options. You’ll find it here whether you’re in the mood for a classic lobster roll in Maine or a slice of New York-style pizza.

You can also visit world-renowned museums, catch a Broadway show, or simply wander the streets and soak up the cities’ energy.

This region’s history and natural beauty are splendid, and a two-week trip will allow you to immerse yourself in all the East Coast fully has to offer. With so much to see and do, a vacation in this region should not be missed.

I hope I was able to help you plan your 2 weeks on the East Coast USA, whether you’re looking for a beach vacation or an autumn road trip to see the fall foliage.

TO SAVE THIS ITINERARY, PIN THIS IMAGE BELOW:

• North America Tours
• USA 2-Week Itinerary And Tours

USA 2-Week Tours and Itineraries

See the top USA 2-Week tours and itineraries. Select from 20 2-Week tours in USA with a total of 17 genuine reviews. Each of Bookmundi's 2-Week USA itineraries are carefully handpicked.

• USA Travel Guide
• 12 Things to do in the USA

20 Trips in USA with 17 Reviews

• Starts New York, USA
• Ends Miami, USA

New York to Miami

• Trip customizable
• Best price guaranteed
• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Chill out
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Coach & Boat
• Age Range 13-99 yrs
• Operated in English
• Apr 26 Only 10 seats left
• May 24 Only 10 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Las Vegas, USA
• Ends Las Vegas, USA

Deserts and Canyons of the Southwest

• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours Trekking and Hiking , Walking tours & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='16256'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Lodge
• Transport Helicopter & 4WD Jeep
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Sep 22 10+ seats left
• Oct 06 10+ seats left

• Starts Salt Lake City, USA

Grand Canyon, Yellowstone and Rocky Mountain Trails

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours Trekking and Hiking , Walking tours & Adventure 'data-more-tripid='16277'>+1 more
• Transport Train, Jeep & Ferry
• May 26 10+ seats left
• Jul 14 10+ seats left

Southern Explorer

• Activities Explorer
• Transport Bus, Coach & Boat
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,286
• Special Deal (40%): - US$ 1,714
• Total Price from: US$ 2,572
• May 24 10+ seats left
• Jun 07 10+ seats left

• Ends Chicago, USA

Essential East Coast, Niagara and Chicago

• Transport Bus, Boat & Train
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• May 05 10+ seats left
• May 12 10+ seats left

• Ends San Francisco, USA

Utah, Nevada & California

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & National parks
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping & Hut
• Transport Private Vehicle & Jeep
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,805
• Special Deal (5%): - US$ 190
• Total Price from: US$ 3,615
• Jun 15 Only 3 seats left
• Jul 20 Only 8 seats left

• Ends New York, USA

East Coast USA and Canada

• Activities Explorer & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Age Range 5-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 5,347
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 802
• Total Price from: US$ 4,545
• Apr 26 Only 8 seats left
• May 10 Only 7 seats left

Zion to San Francisco Adventure

• Transport Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• May 27 Only 3 seats left
• Jun 03 Only 4 seats left

• Starts Los Angeles, USA
• Ends Los Angeles, USA

Best of the American West

• Tour Type Independent Tour
• Activities City sightseeing & Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Resort & Hotel
• Transport Private Vehicle
• Age Range 8-95 yrs
• Apr 24 10+ seats left
• May 01 10+ seats left

• Starts Atlanta, USA
• Ends Atlanta, USA

The American South

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing
• Transport Coach, Boat & Bus
• Jun 01 10+ seats left
• Jun 22 10+ seats left

• Ends New Orleans, USA

Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans

• Jul 04 Only 7 seats left
• Jul 18 10+ seats left

• Starts California, USA
• Ends California, USA

U.S. Small Group Tour - The Best of the West

• Accommodation Hotel, Lodge & Resort
• Transport Coach, Private Vehicle, Ferry & Helicopter
• Jul 19 Only 10 seats left
• Aug 16 Only 10 seats left

• Starts Anchorage, USA
• Ends Anchorage, USA

Ultimate Active Alaska

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Active and outdoor
• Accommodation Camping, Hotel, Lodge & Resort
• Transport Bus & Private Vehicle
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,849
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 728
• Total Price from: US$ 4,121
• Jun 10 Only 2 seats left
• Jul 01 Only 6 seats left

• Starts Join Kona, USA
• Ends Maui, USA

Hawaii Hiking the Aloha Isles

• Activities Adventure & Walking tours Adventure , Walking tours & Trekking and Hiking 'data-more-tripid='37384'>+1 more
• Transport Flight, 4WD Jeep & Boat
• Sep 08 10+ seats left

USA 2-Weeks Tour Reviews

• USA budget tours
• Eco tours in USA
• USA guided tours
• USA family tour packages
• USA luxury tours
• USA private tours
• USA self-guided tours
• USA small group tours
• USA solo trips
• USA tailor-made vacation packages
• USA tours for senior citizens
• USA tours for young adults
• USA group tours
• USA last minute deals
• USA travel deals

Best price guaranteed - No booking fees

Free cancellation on most trips

Sign-in to unlock instant trip discounts. Create wish lists and save up to USD 1,500.

The perfect 2 week USA West Coast road trip itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable USA West Coast road trip, a must for every bucket list! Imagine driving through amazing landscapes, exploring stunning national parks, and wandering around lively cities with the sun on your face.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through my own 2-week USA West Coast road trip itinerary, featuring the best things to do, the accomodations where I stayed, and tips for your journey. This road trip will take you to incredible places like San Francisco, Yosemite National Park, Death Valley, Las Vegas, Monument Valley, the Grand Canyon, and Los Angeles.

Pack your bags, hit the road, and make the most of your USA West Coast road trip adventure!

Read also:  10 awesome tips to plan a road trip in West Coast USA

The ultimate 2 week USA West Coast road trip itinerary

START San Francisco |   END Los Angeles

DURATION 14-18 days

METHOD OF TRANSPORT  Rental car

BEST TIME OF YEAR  March-May  (Spring) & June-September  (Summer)

WHEN DID I GO  September

HIGHLIGHTS  San Fransisco , Las Vegas , Los Angeles , Yosemite National Park , Monument Valley , Death Valley , Bryce Canyon , Zion National Park , Grand Canyon , Palm Springs

San Francisco

Kicking off my USA West Coast road trip in San Francisco was absolutely amazing! This city has this incredible vibe—super cool, diverse cultures, and endless fun stuff to do. I decided to stay for 3 nights, and let me tell you, it was the right call. Every day brought something new and exciting.

Walking around San Francisco was a treat in itself. And, of course, I couldn’t miss the chance to explore the famous Alcatraz prison. Pro tip: grab your tickets early and catch the first ferry to beat the crowds—it’s totally worth it.

Another highlight was definitely hopping on the Hop-on Hop-off bus, which takes you to all the must-see spots in no time. Perfect if you’re like me, trying to soak up as much as possible in a short period. The views and the lively atmosphere are something you won’t want to miss.

Read also: 5 best things to do in San Francisco

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Galleria Park, a Joie de Vivre Hotel

Yosemite National Park

My next adventure on the USA West Coast road trip took me to Yosemite National Park, an absolute gem and one of the most popular parks in America. Trust me, it’s popular for a reason – it left me just speechless!

Yosemite is a haven of breathtaking sceneries, most beautiful mountains, refreshing waterfalls, giant sequoia trees, and it’s a paradise for hikers.

My advice? Plan to spend at least 2 days in Yosemite, and try to stay as close as possible, maybe even inside the park. I stayed at The Monarch in Mariposa, a budget-friendly choice about a 45-minute drive from the park. It worked out well, but next time, I’m aiming to stay inside the park. Why? Because it saves so much time, allowing you to explore everything without any rush.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL The Monarch

Death Valley National Park

No USA West Coast road trip is complete without a stop at Death Valley – it’s hands down the most awe-inspiring place you can’t afford to miss. Picture this: one of the hottest and driest spots on Earth, and yet, it’s incredibly beautiful! You’ll find the lowest point in North America here, Badwater Basin, a whopping 85 meters below sea level.

For the best place to stay, I recommend The Ranch at Death Valley. It’s perfectly situated in the heart of the park, offering a refreshing swimming pool (a true lifesaver in the heat!), a cozy restaurant, and a local shop. Trust me, after exploring Death Valley, having a comfortable place to unwind is a game-changer!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL The Ranch at Death Valley

Zion National Park

My next stop on the 2-week USA West Coast road trip itinerary was Zion National Park. Located in Utah, it’s worth noting the 1-hour time difference from Arizona and California when planning tours. Zion is surrounded by lush forests and majestic mountains, offering a haven for hiking enthusiasts and a paradise for photographers.

Staying just one day wasn’t enough—way too short! I only got to do two short hikes and wanted more. If you can, stay longer; it’s really worth it!

I chose to stay at Zion Mountain Ranch , and let me tell you, it exceeded expectations! Positioned at the east entrance of Zion National Park, the ranch offers breathtaking landscape views. The icing on the cake was their outstanding restaurant, Buffalo Grill—a perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploration. I’m already counting down the days until my return to Zion Mountain Ranch!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Zion Mountain Ranch

Bryce Canyon National Park

I spent one night at Bryce Canyon which was just the right amount. (though you can extend if time allows). With numerous beautiful hiking trails to explore in a day, it’s a treat for nature lovers.

Entering the park felt like stepping into a colossal amphitheater, surrounded by breathtaking rock formations. Bryce Canyon National Park, a highlight on my USA West Coast road trip, is a photographer’s dream with its iconic “hoodoos” and magical spots for mesmerising sunrises and sunsets.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Best Western Plus Ruby’s Inn

My fifth stop on the USA West Coast road trip was Page. I only stayed for one night, which felt a bit short. There are so many cool places around, like Horseshoe Bend, Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, and Antelope Canyon. If you have time and want to take it easy, I suggest staying for at least 2 nights.

My top things in Page? Watching the sunset at Horseshoe Bend, exploring the famous Antelope Canyon, and chilling at ‘Big John’s Texas BBQ.’ It’s this cool place, used to be a gas station, now turned into a restaurant with live music. Gives you that real American feel!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page Lake Powell

Monument Valley

My next stop was Monument Valley, just a 2-hour drive from Page. I was super excited to see this famous place during my USA West Coast road trip, and let me tell you, it was even cooler than I imagined! Monument Valley has these big red rocks in the desert, making it one of the most coolest places ever.

I joined a tour to go around Monument Valley and learn about the Navajo people’s history and culture. But hey, you can also drive around yourself for $20 per car. No matter how many times you go there, it feels like you’re in an old Wild West movie. So cool!

Quick tip: If you book an organised tour, remember there’s a 1-hour time difference because Monument Valley is right on the border of Arizona and Utah.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Goulding’s Lodge

Grand Canyon National Park

After Monument Valley, I headed to Grand Canyon National Park—one of the most famous spots on the USA West Coast. Over a million years, the Colorado River carved the canyon into two parts: the North Rim and the South Rim.

I checked out the South Rim, which is more developed with hotels, restaurants, and a visitor center. If it’s your first time, I suggest starting here. Leave your car at a nearby parking spot, and hop on a free shuttle bus to reach different viewpoints. No ticket needed, and they run from 4 am to 9 pm, depending on the month.

If you’re into hiking, there are trails to explore, but honestly, the viewpoints are stunning enough. My favorites on the South Rim were Hopi Point, Yavapai Point, and Mather Point, especially at sunset. The Grand Canyon transforms from orange to pink to purple in just a few minutes—breathtaking! Bring a rug, a bottle of wine, some snacks, and set up your camera for unforgettable photos.

Tip: For the North Rim, consider a helicopter tour. I did a sunrise flight with Papillon Grand Helicopters, totally worth it!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon

Las Vegas has so much to offer! It’s a lively city in the middle of the desert, full of energy, great restaurants, nightclubs, fancy hotels, and cool things to do. Many people come for the famous casinos, to party, shop, or even tie the knot in the Little White Chapel.

I stayed for 2 nights, taking a break at the pool after exploring national parks. Walking along The Las Vegas Strip, I loved the bright neon signs, and the Bellagio fountain show at night was amazing. The Venetian Hotel is also awesome, you can stroll around and grab dinner at one of the Italian restaurants.

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Tropicana Las Vegas a DoubleTree by Hilton Resort & Casino

Palm Springs

Driving from Las Vegas to Los Angeles, I made one more stop at Palm Springs which is an absolute must on any USA West Coast road trip. This Instagram-worthy town sits in the middle of the desert and is a hotspot for celebrities who own properties here.

Palm Springs has more than 360 days of sunshine yearly, beautiful restaurants and charming outdoor vintage markets. It’s a place you’ll adore! I stayed at the gorgeous The Saguaro Hotel, which I highly recommend to anyone.

Feeling active in Palm Springs? Consider exploring Joshua Tree National Park or taking the Aerial Tramway to the top of Mount San Jacinto!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL   The Saguaro

Los Angeles

Wrapping up my 2-week USA West Coast road trip brought me to the vibrant city of Los Angeles! I stayed in a charming beachfront hotel at Venice Beach, and trust me, it’s the perfect spot to soak in the LA vibes.

Plan for at least 3 amazing days in Los Angeles because, oh boy, there’s so much to do! Dive into the magic of theme parks like Universal Studios and Disney World, stroll the iconic Santa Monica Pier marking the end of Route 66, and maybe catch a glimpse of celebrity homes in glamorous Beverly Hills. Los Angeles is the dreamy finale for your West Coast road trip!

TIP Rent a bike or some roller skates and go from the Venice Beach Boardwalk to Santa Monica Pier. Such a beautiful path to ride on!

RECOMMENDED HOTEL Venice V Hotel

Plan your 2 weeks USA West Coast road trip itinerary with these valuable travel resources

Explore my free online travel guides packed with the best tips and favourite places. If you find this article helpful, consider making a purchase through one of my affiliate links. You’ll receive a great deal, and I’ll earn a small commission at no extra cost to you—keeping my travel blog alive and thriving.

Your support means the world!

• Kiwi.com – to book cheap flights other sites simply can’t find
• Booking.com   – for big savings on homes, hotels, flights, car rentals, taxis, and attractions
• Agoda.com – to book the best deals on any kind of accommodation or flights
• Go City or Get Your Guide – to enjoy the best attractions, tours and experiences
• Rental Cars or Discover Cars – to find the right car in over 60,000 locations across 160 countries
• Hostelworld – the #1 booking platform for hostels worldwide
• Hotellook – to find and compare prices for hotels around the world provided by leading search engines such as Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia and many more
• 12Go – to book public transport across Asia
• Trip.com – to find flights, hotels, trains, car rentals, airport transfers, tours and attraction tickets
• Compensair – to help you receive compensation for flight delays, cancellations or denied boarding

You may also like

From perth to esperance: the perfect south western australia itinerary, from perth to broome: the best road trip in western australia, the perfect 14-day self-drive in namibia, the best 3 weeks in south africa itinerary: from johannesburg to cape town, the perfect 2 weeks in costa rica itinerary, renting a camper in iceland with happy campers.

Thanks for sharing this type of information about the Coast Road trip. After coming back from bus tour to niagara falls from new york . I will enjoy this trip.

Interesting one

Wow, I get a idea through redaing this article baout the stay in West Coast. Now I will try to take west coast bus tours for two weeks.

Hello, Do you have an estimate of how many miles the trip is? or recommend any van companies this looks amazing. Thank you for sharing.

We used this itinerary as a guideline for our West coast trip and can’t thank you enough for all the wonderful ideas and recommendations you made! Our fave spots were definitely Yosemite and Monument Valley – such stunning sights. Keep up the amazing work and happy travels 🙂

Thank you so much for your valuable feedback on our article, it means a lot and we are happy to inspire people to visit all these beautiful places.

Leave a Comment

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This website uses cookies to improve your experience. We'll assume you're ok with this, but you can opt-out if you wish. Accept Read More

• pound sterling
• Create an account / Login

The best 2-week road trip in the American West

The American West is synonymous with immensity and offers endless wonders to behold.

For the right balance of ocean, vibrant cities, desert, mountains and natural treasures, here is the best 2-week itinerary for your Western USA road trip .

As Ray Charles famously sang, Hit the road, Jack !  

American West tour map

2-week tour summary, days 1-2 : los angeles   .

Your American adventure begins in the City of Angels , Los Angeles .

Why not start your trip by mingling with the locals in the oldest part of downtown L.A. Make your way to Olvera Street for some typical Mexican cuisine , a favourite among Californians. 

After a well-deserved night's rest, enjoy a full day exploring this most exciting of Californian cities. 

Start by exploring behind the scenes of Hollywood with a visit to a film studio. I particularly recommend Universal Studio  or Warner Bros    , which offer family-oriented tours. 

On your way there, take the time to admire Beverly Hills    , an affluent neighbourhood that is home to many Hollywood stars. 

After immersing yourself in the world of cinema, treat yourself to what California does best: sun, sand and surf !

Santa Monica  is the perfect place to have some fun. Its pier is well known for its festive atmosphere. It is also the end of Route 66 .

A few kilometres away, Venice Beach  has a much more bohemian feel with its many street artists and skateboarders. If you want a photo of the famous Venice sign, you will find it at the corner of Pacific and Windward.

Road Trip USA

Day 3 : las vegas  (461 km) .

It's time to leave the City of Angels in your Los Angeles rental car .

Today's destination is without a doubt one of the most eccentric destinations in the United States : Las Vegas .

Your stay here would not be complete without a stroll along the Strip   , a stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard lined with casinos and hotels, each one more flamboyant than the last .

The most impressive of these are Caesar's Palace, the Wynn and the Venetian.

In the evening, be sure to take in the famous fountain show at the Bellagio Hotel . It's a must-see that will captivate the whole family.

You'll also want to experience Fremont Street    , which is pedestrian-only between Main Street and 4th. 

Here you'll see everything from neon signs to light shows projected on an immense canopy screen suspended above the street, street performers, and a zipline... Note that this section of the "City of Sin" isn't recommended for children in the evening.  

CAR RENTAL PRICE COMPARISON TOOL

Days 4-5 : grand canyon   (439 km)   .

This morning, take Route 66 from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon , widely considered to be the most iconic stretch of this legendary highway!

Once you reach the Grand Canyon , begin your discovery with the eastern section, called the South Rim  . It's definitely the most impressive!

Your first stop is Mather Point  , the most beautiful viewpoint in the park . 

Although it is very popular with tourists, you'll soon forget your surroundings as you take in the breathtaking view . 

The next day, make the most of your full day inside the park to explore the Rim Trail    . 

This trail runs along Hermit Road . It is possible to hike the trail, but the best option is to take the park shuttle and get off at the various points of interest.

One don't-miss stop is Mohave Point  , a scenic overlook where you will literally feel as if you are floating above the Grand Canyon .

To end the day on a high note, take a drive along Desert View Drive   at sunset.

This scenic route is beautiful all the way along, but especially at Lipan Point  , which offers dramatic and colourful panoramic views...

Day 6 : Monument Valley  (369 km) 

Today's route leads to an icon for any fan of American Westerns : Monument Valley .

Monument Valley is located on Navajo Nation Land .

There is an entry fee of $20 US per vehicle (4 people) or $10 US per person. Children 9 and under are admitted free .

Be sure to take the Monument Valley Scenic Drive  , the best way to enjoy the beauty of these legendary Far West landscapes .

And head to John Ford Point  for the iconic view of the region.

Day 7 : Lake Powell  (277 km)

Today's destination is Lake Powell , a region marked by colourful contrasts with its clear blue lake surrounded by pink and red sandstone rocks . 

Along the way, be sure to stop at the impressive Horseshoe Bend   .

There, a thirty-minute hike will take you to the most spectacular view of the Colorado River.

Horseshoe Bend 

Distance:  2.4 km round-trip Time:  30 minutes to 1 hour Elevation gain:  73 metres Level:  Easy

Once you reach your destination, make your way to Antelope Canyon  .

The site can only be visited with a Navajo Guide , who will tell you all about the history, culture and geology of this magnificent natural treasure. 

These unusual formations are both spectacular and surprising. The play of light will leave you speechless and will delight any photography enthusiast.

Allow about 1.5 hours for this tour. 

Day 8 : Bryce Canyon  (232 km)

Next, head for one of the most spectacular parks in the southwestern US : Bryce Canyon .

It's hard to find the right words to do justice to the landscape. Bryce Canyon is like a natural amphitheatre , filled with sandstone arches, pillars and spires . 

It's a real paradise for hiking enthusiasts . You won't want to miss the Queen's Garden Trail   for a close-up look at the unique geological formations.

Queen's Garden trail 

Distance:  2.9 km round-trip Time: 2 hours Elevation gain: 98 metres Level: easy

Then make a stop at Sunset Point for a magnificent overview of the hoodoos. 

Despite its name, I recommend continuing on to Bryce Point  , the southernmost viewpoint and the most spectacular spot from which to admire the sunset.

Rising to an elevation of 2,528 metres, it will certainly end your day on a high note!

Day 9 : Zion  (216 km)

Another day, another spectacular national park! Today, it is Zion that awaits you. 

This magnificent area was discovered by Mormons , for whom "Zion" means "paradise" . 

And that's certainly the impression you'll get from the landscapes you will find here!

Since you only have one day here, take the Zion Mount Carmel Highway  . The best attractions can be found there.

One place you simply must stop is Canyon Overlook  , which offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the canyon and surrounding area.

To get there, you'll have to take the Zion Canyon Overlook trail , a fairly easy trail but not recommended if you have a fear of heights!

Zion Canyon Overlook Trail

Distance:  1.6 km round-trip Time:  30 minutes Elevation gain:  135 m Level: Easy

Day 10 : Death Valley  (415 km)

Today's destination is... Death Valley.

Despite its chilling name , Death Valley is well worth the detour (and the sweat). It is important to note that summer temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius . 

The best way to see the valley is to enter by Hwy 190 and drive to Dante's View  . 

When you reach the top, you will enjoy a vast landscape of sand dunes as far as the eye can see. 

Continue on to Furnace Creek , a peaceful little oasis in the middle of the desert.

If you have the time, take Artists Drive to Artist's Palette  .

The landscape is coloured in vivid shades caused by oxidation .

Day 11 : Mammoth Lakes    (291 km)

Ready for a day of contrasts? Today's route leads from the desert to the snowy peaks of the Sierra Nevada .

Mammoth Lakes is not your typical California landscape. It is a mountain resort town nestled deep in a densely forested valley dotted with magnificent lakes .

Whatever the season, there is an activity for everyone... downhill skiing, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, and much more...

If you are fond of hiking, you will want to walk the Crystal Lake Trail  .  

As the name suggests, you will find yourself in the heart of the alpine beauty of Crystal Lake .

Along the way, you will enjoy panoramic views of Mammoth Lakes Basin and cross paths with Crystal Crag , a granite monolith more than 10,000 feet high. 

Crystal Lake trail  : :

Distance:  4.5 km return-trip Time:  2 to 3 hours Elevation gain: 254 m Level:  Intermediate

Day 12 : Yosemite   (164 km)

Another famous route awaits you today, the Tioga Road  . This scenic high mountain road runs through the northern section of Yosemite National Park . 

This spectacular park is your destination for today. 

Your first stop is Tunnel View  in Yosemite Valley .

Here you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the entire national park.

If you're travelling with the family or are feeling less energetic, you will enjoy Yosemite Falls  . Together this series of three falls form the fifth tallest waterfall in the world, at 739 metres .

An easy thirty-minute trail will take you to the base of the Lower Falls  .

For the more athletic or more courageous, the Yosemite Falls Trail leads to the Upper Falls  ... and takes 6 to 8 hours to complete (round-trip)! 

Days 13 to 15 : San Francisco  (315 km)

Today you head for your final destination, last but not least, San Francisco . The city known as the Paris of the West is the most European and most tolerant of American cities. 

For a good start to your stay here, I recommend a visit to the De Young Museum  . Its top floor offers the best view of the city . 

In the evening, take a night tour of Alcatraz Prison ... if you dare! Did you know that the prison offers haunted tours ? Be sure to book in advance .

San Francisco is known for its famous cable cars  . An early morning ride will allow you to avoid the crowds... A great way to start your second day!

Be sure to visit the city's iconic attractions: the Painted Ladies  , a row of colourful 1890s Victorian houses across from Alamo Square, as well as Lombard Street  , the "crookedest street in the world".

Afterwards, why not watch the sea lions and do a bit of shopping on Fisherman's Wharf  . And if you're feeling peckish, you're also in the right place to sample the local cuisine .

For a perfect ending to the day, and to soak up the city's atmosphere, take a walk across the Golden Gate bridge . This majestic bridge is even more magical at sunset!

All good things must come to an end... this is the last day of your adventure in the Land of Uncle Sam.

If your flight is in the evening, I recommend a quick tour of the Mission District  , a colourful Latino neighbourhood.

Then it's time to head to the San Francisco airport for your flight home, your head and heart filled with lasting memories !

You're now ready to conquer the American West in 2 weeks ! If you have questions or comments, be sure to write in the comments section below . 

An enthusiast of both our vibrant cities & great oudoors, my life revolves around travel & adventure. It's a no brainer that I have to share the wonders & secrets of my neck of the woods with other travelling souls. Enjoy the journey!

LEAVE A COMMENT

Répondre à: -.

Your e-mail address will not be shared

Free travel guide

Most-read articles, most recent articles, quiz on the american west, where to go in the american west, the ultimate rv road trip in florida, all-inclusive usa tour: book with locals, 5 (almost) unknown places to visit in the american west, best road trip from seattle to san francisco, top 5 california state parks, the best 7-day california road trip, top 5 winter landscapes in the western united states, 5 good reasons to rent a campervan for your usa road trip.

USA itineraries

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• North America
• itineraries
• Travel guide
• Itineraries
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

The following itineraries span the entire length of this incredibly diverse country, from the historic cities of the east, to the deserts of the Southwest and the jaw-dropping Rocky Mountains. Given the vast distances involved, you may not be able to cover everything, but even picking a few highlights will give you a deeper insight into America’s natural and historic wonders.

Recommended USA itineraries

If you are planning your travel to the USA yourself, use these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration.

USA Itinerary 1 - The National Parks Loop

Only when you traverse the American West will you begin to grasp just how big – and rich in natural beauty – this nation is. Come in summer to enjoy the sunshine and take three to four weeks to complete this trip, making a loop from San Francisco by car.

• Yosemite National Park, CA - Just a 3hr 30min drive from San Francisco, you won’t forget your first tantalizing glimpse of the rocky domes, peaks and waterfalls of Yosemite Valley.
• Death Valley, CA - Leave the snowy Sierras for the lowest, hottest and driest area in North America, with vast dunes and flaming red rocks.
• Zion National Park, UT - Cross over into Utah to explore this spectacular park, with a fifteen-mile canyon hemmed in by reddish walls of sandstone.
• Grand Canyon, AZ - Dip south into Arizona to take in the less crowded northern rim of the Grand Canyon, America’s most awe-inspiring natural wonder.
• Monument Valley, AZ/UT - The iconic Western landscape, with giant fingers of rock soaring up from the dusty desert floor like ancient cathedrals on the Arizona–Utah state line.
• Arches/Canyonlands national parks, UT - Back in Utah, make time for the delicate sandstone arches and myriads canyons, mesas and buttes of these two neighbouring parks.
• Grand Teton National Park, WY - It’s a winding 500 miles north to Jackson and Grand Teton in Wyoming from Arches; from the desert to high alpine Rockies, with the jaw-dropping, jagged Teton ridge at the forefront.
• Yellowstone National Park, WY - Grand Teton merges into Yellowstone, the granddaddy of the national parks, crammed with wildlife, bubbling geysers, lakes and wild, untrammelled scenery.
• Craters of the Moon, ID - Break the long journey back to the West Coast with a stop at Idaho’s Craters of the Moon, a stark landscape of lava fields and sagebrush steppe grasslands.

USA Itinerary 2 - The Deep South and Florida

Hot, sultry, rich in history, culture and some of the greatest music made in America, the Deep South is perhaps the most beguiling part of the USA. Take two or three weeks to see the highlights, travelling by car or by bus, and end up on the beaches of south Florida.

• New Orleans, LA - It’s impossible not to fall in love with this gorgeous city, with its romantic French Quarter, indulgent food, jazz heritage and famously ebullient citizens.
• Mississippi Delta - Soak up the blues heritage in Clarksdale, Mississippi, a five-hour drive north of New Orleans, before leaving the state via Tupelo, the home of Elvis.
• Montgomery, AL - Continue east to the fascinating capital of Alabama, laced with monuments to Martin Luther King, Civil Rights and Hank Williams.
• Atlanta, GA - Make the short journey northeast to the buzzing capital of the South, birthplace of Martin Luther King and home to US icons CNN and Coca-Cola.
• Charleston, SC - Over in South Carolina, this is perhaps the finest old town in all America, enriched by the culture of the nearby Sea Islands.
• Savannah, GA - Cut back into Georgia to absorb the charms of Charleston’s raffish but equally ravishing cousin, a city of moss-tangled squares and historic homes.
• St Augustine, FL - Drop south into Florida to see the oldest town in America, founded by the Spanish in 1565.
• Miami, FL - The Florida coast is studded with great beaches and attractions such as the Kennedy Space Center, but it’s hard to top Miami and fabulous, Art Deco South Beach.
• Key West, FL - End up travelling spectacular US-1 across the Keys to America’s party-hard Caribbean outpost.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

USA Itinerary 3 - Classic coast-to-coast

This three-week tour gives a taster of the USA’s iconic landscapes and cities from the East to West coasts, travelling from New York to Los Angeles along sections of historic Rte-66.

• New York, NY - America’s biggest city is home to Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Met, Madison Square Garden, the Empire State, Harlem, Brooklyn Bridge and Jay-Z.
• Chicago, IL - America’s third city boasts some serious skyscrapers, top museums, live blues, the Cubs and the Bears, and those deep-dish pizzas.
• Springfield, IL - Immerse yourself in all things Abraham Lincoln at the Illinois state capital, now a virtual shrine to the great American president.
• St Louis, MO - Head south to this old city on the Mississippi, and take the train to the top of the Gateway Arch, a momentous feat of engineering.
• Route 66 - Travelling southwest from St Louis to Oklahoma City be sure to take the Americana-rich remaining stretches of the most iconic US highway.
• Santa Fe, NM - As you continue west on I-40 across New Mexico, detour to the state capital, a glorious ensemble of Spanish adobe and baroque.
• Grand Canyon - I-40 cuts across Arizona via Flagstaff, gateway to one of the grandest, most mind-blowing natural wonders in the world.
• Las Vegas, NV - Around four hours’ drive west of the Grand Canyon lies America’s playground, a confection of mega-casinos and pool parties in the middle of the desert.
• Los Angeles, CA - You’ve made it: watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at Santa Monica Pier or wacky Venice Beach before soaking up the sights in Hollywood.

USA Itinerary 4 - The Northeast

The northeast and especially New England is rich in history, stunning scenery and invariably empty roads the further north you get. This two- to three-week tour is best experienced by car, but buses are a possible alternative.

• Washington DC - The nation’s capital is crammed with world-class museums and monuments, from the Capitol to the White House.
• Philadelphia, PA - The city of Benjamin Franklin is home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the cheesesteak and Rocky.
• New York, NY - The largest city in the USA drips with global icons, from the Empire State and Brooklyn Bridge to the Statue of Liberty and Broadway theatres.
• Hartford, CT - Visit the Connecticut capital to pay homage to Mark Twain, Harriet Beecher Stowe and the astonishing art at Wadsworth Atheneum.
• Nantucket, MA - Take the ferry to the “Little Gray Lady”, a once great whaling community still redolent of the era of Moby-Dick.
• Provincetown and Cape Cod, MA - Take a day or two to explore the historic towns, tranquil beaches and fish shacks of this hook-shaped peninsula.
• Boston, MA - New England’s lively capital drips with colonial history, but also boasts enticing restaurants, top art museums and some of the USA’s best sports teams.
• White Mountains, NH - Across into New Hampshire the mountains become bigger and wilder, perfect for hiking and biking, and culminating in mighty Mount Washington.
• Acadia National Park, ME - Maine’s coastline of wooded bays and small villages snakes northeast to this pristine section of rolling, mist-shrouded hills, fir forests and lobster pounds.

Sunrise on Half Dome in the Forest, Yosemite National Park, California - Stephen Moehle

USA Itinerary 5 - The West Coast

The north–south journey along the Pacific starts in the rainy, forested northwest and ends at the southern deserts of California (with extensions to Tijuana and Vancouver at either end). You could travel by trains and buses as well as by car.

• Seattle, WA - The home of grunge, Microsoft and Starbucks is now a booming city, with Pike Place Market, the stunning Chihuly Garden, huge salmon and gourmet coffee.
• The Cascades, WA & OR - Travel inland through the Cascade Mountains, where the giant, snow-capped volcanic cones of Mount Rainier, Mount St Helens and Mount Hood loom over the horizon.
• Portland, OR - Rent a bike and cycle Oregon’s hippest city, soaking up the art, organic food, microbrews and kooky shows.
• Crater Lake, OR - Achingly beautiful national park, a vast, waterlogged crater surrounded by a spectacular snowy rim.
• Redwood National Park, CA - Travel south along the Californian coastline, taking in these giant natural beauties.
• San Francisco, CA - One of America’s most appealing cities: historic, progressive, beautifully sited and home to the Golden Gate and Alcatraz.
• Big Sur and Hwy-1, CA - The coastal road between San Francisco and Los Angeles is a scenic, surprisingly wild route of misty cliffs and untouched beaches.
• Los Angeles, CA - Take your pick of iconic ’hoods: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica and Venice Beach – or just hit Disneyland and Magic Mountain.
• San Diego, CA - Visit the zoo, SeaWorld or simply hang out at the beach at California’s laidback southern capital, the gateway to Baja.

USA Itinerary 6 - The Great Northern Crossing

Cross the country on the lesser travelled – but blissfully untouched – northern route, taking at least two weeks to drive between Chicago and Seattle.

• Madison, WI - The capital of Wisconsin also happens to be the most attractive college town in the USA, just 2hr 30min drive northwest of Chicago.
• Badlands National Park, SD - It’s a long day of driving across the Great Plains to the Badlands, a truly desolate, magical place, especially at sunrise.
• Black Hills, SD - Forested mountain plateau rising above the plains, home to Mount Rushmore and the equally monumental Crazy Horse Mountain.
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND - Drive into North Dakota to explore the wild, untouched and multicoloured badlands created by the Little Missouri.
• Little Bighorn, MT - Cross into Montana to visit one of America’s most poignant battlefields, where Custer’s 7th Cavalry were trounced by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse.
• Butte, MT - This shabby old mining town in central Montana is a treasure trove of once grand architecture, old diners and even Cornish pasties.
• Glacier National Park, MT - Northern Montana is dominated by this sensational preserve of glaciers, snowy peaks, alpine lakes and historic lodges.
• Idaho Panhandle - I-90 cuts across this narrow section of Idaho, laced with inviting hiking and biking trails and home to the genuine Western town of Wallace.
• Cascade Loop, WA - End up in Washington, touring the peaks and valleys of the mighty Cascade Mountains before arriving at Seattle and the Pacific Ocean.

With 52 states to explore, you can easily visit the USA for a two-week holiday or spend a few months travelling the country at length. Whatever your timescale or budget, here are some sample itineraries to whet your appetite for travel. Find one you like? Speak to a local USA expert to book your trip today.

The Rough Guides to USA and related travel guides

In-depth, easy-to-use travel guides filled with expert advice.

Travel advice for USA

From travel safety to visa requirements, discover the best tips for traveling to USA

• Eating and drinking in USA
• How to get to USA
• Getting around USA: Transportation Tips
• Travel Tips USA for planning and on the go
• Best time to visit USA

Find even more inspiration here

written by Andy Turner

updated 28.04.2021

Ready to travel and discover USA?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

• Where to stay
• Travel advice

A 2 week West Coast USA Itinerary (with map) – everything you need to know to plan the perfect trip

If you have ever been to, or wanted to plan a trip to the USA, you will understand just how big the country is. And it can be so hard trying to just narrow down what you want to see and where you want to go. Put a time cap on top of it and it can be a bit overwhelming. That is exactly why we have put together this 2 week West Coast USA itinerary.

If you only have a limited time to visit, you are best off trying to focus on one section such as the East Coast or the West Coast. In this article we explore some of the must see places along the West Coast including Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Big Bear, and Las Vegas, in order to help you come up with a 2 week West Coast USA itinerary. We explore the best things to do in each of the places, as well as providing you with tips on where to stay, how to get around and what to eat and drink. So let’s start.

Disclaimer : This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn a commission, at no cost to you. Thank you for your support.

Before you leave on your 2 week West Coast USA itinerary

Why should i visit the west coast in america, what to expect in this west coast usa itinerary for 2 weeks, usa west coast itinerary 2 weeks, tips for planning a 2 week usa west coast itinerary, 2 week west coast usa itinerary- day by day, highlights on this west coast usa itinerary for 2 weeks, 2 week west coast usa itinerary day 1-3 seattle, 2 week west coast usa itinerary days 4-6 san francisco, 2 week west coast usa itinerary days 7-9 los angeles, 2 week west coast usa itinerary day 10 big bear lake, 2 week west coast usa itinerary days 11-14 las vegas, 2 week west coast usa itinerary – map, is a 2 week west coast usa itinerary enough time, getting around during your 2 week west coast usa trip, usa 2 week west coast itinerary – money matters, 2 week west coast usa itinerary in summer, 2 week west coast usa itinerary in winter, 2 week west coast usa itinerary the rest of the year, so should i plan a 2 week west coast usa itinerary.

Before you leave on your 2 week West Coast USA itinerary you need to make sure you  apply for your ESTA . That is of course if you aren’t a US Citizen. If you are then you can skip this bit.

The ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorisation which allows entry to the USA under the Visa Waiver Programme. But this is only for certain countries such as Australia, UK and, Ireland. You will need to fill in a few questions online including your contact details, employment details, and passport information.

You also need to pay the $14 (approx) fee. Most often you will get a quick response as to whether this has been approved but sometimes it can take a few days. Mine took longer because I am a dual national so had to input two lots of passport details that needed to be checked. The ESTA is then valid for a series of multiple trips over a 2 year period. It also only allows you to stay in the USA for 90 days or less.

When you arrive in the USA for your 2 week West Coast trip, you will probably get asked questions in the airport such as ‘purpose of your visit’ and ‘where are you staying’. You might also get asked about budget and things like that. The USA has a strict immigration policy so these questions are normal when entering the country.

Ok before we get into the nitty gritty of an itinerary, you might be wondering why you should visit the West Coast in America?

The West Coast of America is known for its gorgeous stretch of beaches, particularly in California. So if you love spending time in the great outdoors then a 2 week west coast USA itinerary might just be for you. On top of that you have iconic cities like LA on the West Coast, so if you are a film lover this is a must.

The weather is slightly milder on the West Coast compared to the East Coast. LA for example has decent weather all year round, unlike NYC and Boston that experience super hot summers and icy cold winters. Because of the warmer weather you will find that people are a little bit more laid back on the West Coast as well.

Here is what you can expect to find in this west coast USA itinerary for 2 weeks:

• Day by day west coast USA itinerary
• Tried and tested tips for booking your west coast USA trip
• Car rental tips
• Accommodation suggestions
• Budget recommendations

The more time you have to spend on the West Coast the better, but for the purposes of this article we have come up with a 2 week West Coast USA itinerary. This gives you a decent amount of time to get a taste for life on the West Coast. We have also included Las Vegas which technically isn’t West Coast but a quick trip to Vegas is a great way to blow off some steam so we have added it anyway.

When planning you USA west coast itinerary here are a couple of things to keep in mind:

• Check for any major events happening in a city before you visit. You don’t want to arrive somewhere and realise that a marathon is on for example (Chicago I’m looking at you!), which means road closures and expensive hotels.
• This guide is based on flying, so if you are driving you might need more time to get between cities. The USA is huge!
• If you are arriving from a different country make sure you look at visa requirements before you get to the USA and apply for your ESTA.
• Get to grips with tipping in the US. For those arriving from places like the UK or Australia we don’t tend to tip as much because servers are paid really well (Australia especially), but in the US tips are required to prop up low wages.
• Also get used to tax, just because something is advertised as being a certain price this more than likely won’t include tax.
• Laws tend to differ state by state so just be aware when travelling between them.
• Make sure that you have travel insurance as a hospital visit will cost you a lot!
• The USA is quite divided when it comes to politics, so it might be best to think or gauge your audience before you start rubbishing politicians.
• Really do your research on the cities you are visiting, and know which areas are good and which are best avoided. LA I’m looking at you in particular.
• Also, each US state can often feel like a different country, for instance California and New York State are not only geographically different but can often feel worlds apart in terms of culture and lifestyle.

Day 1- Seattle

Day 2- Seattle

Day 3- Seattle

Day 4- San Francisco

Day 5- San Francisco

Day 6- San Francisco

Day 7- Los Angeles

Day 8- Los Angeles

Day 9- Los Angeles

Day 10- Big Bear Lake

Day 11- Las Vegas

Day 12-Las Vegas

Day 13- Grand Canyon

Day 14- Las Vegas

• In this west coast USA 2 week itinerary we cover 4 states and 4 cities
• You will get to experience coffee shops, and all things quirky in Seattle
• You can visit historical sights like Alcatraz
• Experience the beaches of LA
• Relax in the beautiful mountain surrounds of Big Bear
• Party in Las Vegas
• And enjoy one of the 7 natural wonders of the world at the Grand Canyon.

Where to begin on your 2 week West Coast USA Itinerary

When planning where to start on your 2 week West Coast USA itinerary you are either going to want to start in the North (Seattle) or the South (LA/Vegas). That way you can travel in a straight line making it easier to plan.

We recommend starting your 2 week West Coast USA itinerary in Seattle. It is an incredible city surrounded by mountains, water, and forests. It’s also incredibly quirky so a must on any west coast itinerary.

Things to do in Seattle

For more information on things to do in Seattle here is a comprehensive guide. But for an overview read on.

☞ Space Needle

To get a view of the expansive terrain surrounding the city you should head up the Space Needle. From the observation deck you get 360 degree views of Seattle from 520 ft in the air. You can purchase your tickets on the day or online in advance .

☞ Museum of Pop Culture

Just a short walk from the Space Needle is the Museum of Pop Culture. It is an immersive museum that contains some rare artefacts including lyrics written by Nirvana and Jimi Hendrix, both prominent acts born in Seattle.

One of the quirkier areas of Seattle, Freemont is a fun place to explore with lots of vintage shops and supercool cafes. It is also home to the famous Freemont Troll located under the George Washington Memorial Bridge.

☞ Harbour Cruise

Another must do in Seattle is to do a harbour cruise . You get to enjoy an impressive view of the skyline, as well as visiting one of the world’s busiest shipping harbours.

Only a city as quirky as Seattle can get away with having a wall literally filled with gum as a tourist attraction.

☞ Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour

One of our favourite things to do in a new city is to do a Hop on Hop off bus tour . It’s great when you only have a limited time in a city because it gets you oriented with it very quickly.

☞ Pike Place Market

This is one of the best markets we have been to. The seafood here is incredible and it is a great place to get all your Seattle souvenirs too. If you want to do a food tour we highly recommend it. We have included some of the best food tours you can book onto.

For more information on the best Pike Place food tours you can read this post.

Why visit Seattle

While Seattle is definitely an underrated city, it is an eclectic city and with so much natural beauty too, it is certainly worth a visit. It is also the place the first Starbucks opened and the birthplace of grunge music.

Getting from the Airport

The cheapest and easiest way to get from the airport in Seattle is by Light Link Rail. It takes approximately 40 minutes to get from the airport to downtown Seattle, and will set you back a little over $3. You could also get a shuttle bus which will cost a bit more but takes you straight to your hotel door.

Where to stay in Seattle

The most convenient place to stay in Seattle is the downtown core and whilst it may be a little more expensive it makes it so much easier to visit all the must see tourist spots. It also means you are close to public transport and close to a lot of the action.

Eating and drinking in Seattle

We highly recommend visiting the original Starbucks located at Pike Place Market. It is interesting to see the first store, particularly as you practically get them on every street corner now. Coffee is a pretty big deal in the city, so we also recommend a coffee culture walking tour .

Stop 2 on our West Coast USA itinerary is non other than San Francisco. It is a city filled with laid back vibes, great food, and even better weather.

The flight time from Seattle to San Francisco is just over 2 hours. There are regular flights everyday with a variety of airlines. For a more comprehensive guide of things to do in San Francisco checkout our post, otherwise read on for a brief guide of things to do.

And if you are tossing up between Los Angeles and San Francisco for your next trip you should read this post.

Things to do in San Francisco

☞Postcard Row

To get those postcard perfect shots of San Francisco you have to checkout Postcard Row. It is famous for the row of houses referred to as the ‘Painted Ladies’ with the city skyline in the background. You will probably recognise these houses from TV shows. And if TV is your thing,  there is a tour  you can do that takes you to all the famous San Francisco filming locations including Postcard Row.

☞Golden Gate Park

If you want to explore some of California’s natural beauty, then the Golden Gate Park is the perfect place to go. One of the highlights of the park has to be the Japanese Tea Garden which is a great place to sit and reflect if you have the time.

☞ Golden Gate Bridge

One of the must do’s in San Francisco is walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the city’s most iconic structures.

☞ Haight Ashbury

Haight Ashbury is a great place to go if you are a fan of the unusual. There are a number of quirky shops and cafes, and it is an area synonymous with the hippie movement in the 1960’s.

Probably one of the most touristy places in San Francisco has to be Pier 39. But don’t let that put you off. It is a great place to explore, and you get some amazing views of Alcatraz from here. The sea lions are also pretty amazing to see and have been drawing tourists in for years.

☞  Historic Cable Cars

You can’t say you have been to San Francisco if you haven’t hung off the edge of a cable car as it whizzes down one of the city’s incredibly steep hills. There are two lines; one that takes you from near Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square, and one that goes past Lombard Street.

☞ Lombard Street

One of the steepest and most beautiful streets in San Francisco is Lombard Street. It is mostly tourists who drive down, although you do see the occasional resident too.

☞  Alcatraz

One of the most notorious prisons in US history has to be Alcatraz. If you choose to do a tour make sure you book your tickets in advance as if you don’t, there is a high chance you will miss out! You can read our top tips for visiting Alcatraz here. And below are some bundle tours that include Alcatraz that you can book onto in advance.

The easiest and cheapest way to get to downtown San Francisco is via the BART. Although you are limited in the stops you can get off within the city. If you are staying near Union Square then this option is perfect, but if you are staying near Fisherman’s Wharf for example you will need to disembark and change onto another form of public transport. You can also get the airport shuttle which will usually drop you straight off at your hotel.

Where to stay in San Francisco

We stayed pretty close to Union Square which was really handy. It was a short walk to Chinatown and a number of restaurants and bars. It was also close to the BART station as well as the MUNI metro.

Eating and drinking in San Francisco

Our top tip in terms of food has to be Chinatown. You have so much choice and the food is really good including Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese food.  It is also relatively cheap. If you are a fan of seafood we recommend heading down to Fisherman’s Wharf. They do some pretty good clam chowder bowls and quick bites.

LA is one of those places you either love or hate. But you definitely need to see it for yourself and make up your own mind about it. A lot of people brush LA off but if you plan ahead and stay in the right areas then it really is a fun place to visit.

There are regular flights between San Francisco and Los Angeles and the total flight time is under an hour. For more information on LA you can read our guide .

Things to do in Los Angeles

☞ Griffith Observatory

For some great views of the Hollywood sign and LA in general, the Griffith Observatory is a must. You can also learn all about the cosmos and look through some powerful telescopes.

☞ Hollywood

You cannot go to LA without visiting Hollywood. Contrary to popular belief it is not swarming with celebrities, instead you will find your typical tourist activities and wax museums. Some must see parts are the walk of fame as well as the handprints at the TLC Chinese theatre.

You can also book onto one of those celebrity homes tours, and most of these originate from the Hollywood area.

☞ Hike the Hollywood Hills

If you want to get a bit closer to the Hollywood Sign you can  do a guided tour . You will learn all about Hollywood and the surrounding areas, and the views are incredible too.

☞ Beverly Hills

Full of fancy shops, fancy cars, and fancy people, Beverly Hills is where you come to be seen. It isn’t everybody’s cup of tea though!

☞ Universal Studios

You cannot visit LA without a  trip to Universal Studios . It’s not only rides and gimmicks, here you can tour a real working studio, and learn more about filmmaking. You do need a good day here, especially if you are into rides so give yourself a good amount of time.

☞ Warner Brothers Studio Tour

Another studio you can visit is  Warner Brothers , which includes getting your picture taken at a replica Central Perk set.

Because LA is so big a Hop on Hop Off Bus tour is a good way to cover quite a bit of ground in the city and see some of the key attractions. There are different routes you can book onto and this can all be done online in advance.

☞ Santa Monica

A great place to go shopping or ride some rollercoasters by the sea, Santa Monica is always a fun day out. It is also very different to Downtown LA or Hollywood so do venture out if you get the chance.

☞ Venice Beach

One of the true gems in LA is Venice Beach. It is one of the best places for people watching and is about as far removed from the Hollywood glitz and glamour as possible. If you do get the time we highly recommend visiting. Here are our suggestions on the best things to do in Venice Beach .

Also a top tip, Venice has some of the best sunsets we have ever seen, so if you get the chance to visit during sunset take it.  Here is a walking tour you can do at sunset for good measure .

LA is absolutely huge and so the best way to get to your hotel is via the airport shuttle. It is actually relatively cheap compared to airport shuttles in other cities, and you get dropped off right at your hotel door. You can book the shuttle at the designated booth in the arrivals section of LAX.

Where to stay in Los Angeles

There are so many different parts of LA to explore but one of the best areas to stay has to be Hollywood. There is a lot going on in terms of nightlife and it is much nicer than say Downtown LA. We actually ended up staying in Downtown LA at a nice hotel. The only issue was we didn’t really feel comfortable exploring at night.

Eating and drinking in Los Angeles

Hollywood is a great place to go for a mix of food. Our favourite place though was Mel’s Drive In . It is a great place to go for milkshakes and apple pie, which is pretty much all I wanted since we landed in the US.

This is the part of our 2 week West Coast USA itinerary that is perfect if you want to relax. So if you are wanting a break from the hustle and bustle of cities, and want to be at one with nature we recommend a trip to Big Bear Lake . It’s better to rent a car in order to get there, and if you are looking for tips you can checkout this post .

Things to do in Big Bear Lake

Big Bear Lake is great all year round. In the winter it is popular amongst skiers and snowboarders, and in the summer months it is an ideal place for boat trips and hikes.

Getting here from LA

We hired a car in LA and did the drive to Big Bear Lake. It takes around 2-3 hours depending on traffic and the views along the way are absolutely stunning.

Where to stay in Big Bear Lake

We highly recommend booking lakeside accommodation. We stayed in a resort right on the lake where the rooms had a cabin feel. It was perfect especially in the evening as we had a fireplace which made everything feel that much cosier.

Eating and drinking in Big Bear Lake

If you make your way into the village there are a number of places to eat and drink. Our favourite though had to be the Peppercorn Grille . They serve food including staples such as pizzas, burgers, and steak. They also rustle up a pretty decent cocktail.

I know that technically it isn’t on the West Coast per se but nothing beats that incredible feeling of driving through the desert into Las Vegas . The drive from Big Bear Lake is about 3-4 hours depending on traffic and whether you stop off anywhere. And as you see Vegas in the distance growing ever larger, the excitement hits you.

Things to do in Las Vegas

These are some of the top things to do in Las Vegas, but if you want more info and our Las Vegas bucket list suggestions checkout this post.

☞ Hotel Hopping & Gambling

Let’s face it, the number one thing to do in Vegas is to hotel/casino hop. The hotels are incredible here and walking into each one is like walking into a different world.

Highlights include:

Floating around on a gondola at the Venetian and/or visiting Madame Tussauds.

Riding a rollercoaster at New York New York.

 Gazing out from the top of the Eiffel Tower at Paris.

Riding the High Roller at the LINQ.

☞ Vegas Sign

No trip to Las Vegas is complete without a selfie in front of the Vegas sign. Located at the top of the strip near Mandalay Bay, you will find queues of people lining up to get a picture of the famous sign.

☞ Freemont Street/ Old Las Vegas

Old Las Vegas comes alive around Freemont Street. There are a number of things to do here from the zip line that whizzes you across Freemont Street at speed, to the Neon Sign Museum. Also worth a visit is the Mob Museum which shows you the fascinating history of the mob in Las Vegas.

Grand Canyon Day Trip

There are a number of day trips you can do from Vegas, including the Hoover Dam and the Grand Canyon .  You can book these tours through your hotel concierge and if you have the time they are a nice break away from the craziness that is Las Vegas. If you plan on visiting the Grand Canyon, just be aware that it is a full day trip leaving early morning back late at night (unless you have struck it lucky and can treat yourself to the helicopter tour), but if you do have the time it really is worth it!

Here are a couple of tours that you can do to give you a bit of inspiration.

The easiest and quickest way to get from the airport to the Vegas Strip is via shuttle bus. You may have to wait a while depending on what time you fly in, but the service is great and you get driven straight to your hotel door.

Where to stay in Las Vegas

Ideally you want to stay on the Vegas Strip as this is where most of the action is. We stayed at Paris, and it was centrally located and in the middle of all the hustle and bustle. Hotels in Vegas range in price and also standard so whatever your budget, there is a lot of choice.

Eating and drinking in Las Vegas

You will be spoilt for choice for food and drink in Vegas, from the elaborate hotel buffets to the restaurants owned by celebrity chefs. There are way too many places to choose from and something to cater for all tastes.

Wondering is Las Vegas worth visiting read this post. 

Here is our map of all the places mentioned in our 2 week West Coast USA itinerary. Most of our recommendations cover flying (with a small section of driving in the middle), but as you can see it is also pretty drivable, with the largest stint being from Seattle to San Francisco. If you do drive though you might want to add a couple of extra days to your West Coast itinerary as there are so many more stops that you will want to make.

One of the questions you might be wondering is, is a 2 week West Coast USA itinerary enough? Well, yes and no. For starters 2 weeks on the West Coast gives you ample time to explore a few major cities, enjoy a bit of nature, and get to grips with the culture and way of life.

But you have to remember that the USA is big. Really big. Travelling between cities and states can take quite a bit of time. Whether you choose to fly or drive, you have to factor travel time into your itinerary. In an ideal world we felt like we could have spent a good 3-4 weeks alone just exploring the West Coast USA. There are so many places we felt we missed out on, which I guess just means we will have to plan another trip!

With this itinerary we wanted to focus on flying predominately. Unlike other parts of the world flying is really affordable in the US. Apart from your standard airlines like Delta, American Airlines, and United, you also have a large range of budget carries such as Spirit, Frontier, Southwest and JetBlue. Flights between major cities are frequent, and there are often several flights a day.

Also for my European friends, if you are used to flying RyanAir or Easyjet then the US budget Airlines are similar if not slightly more spacious. To get the best deals book your flights in advance.

In this itinerary there is also a small section that involves driving. So if you intend to rent a car in the USA here are some key points to remember.

• You have to be 25 or over to rent a car.
• If you are from the UK or Australia remember that you need to drive on the opposite side in the USA.
• The roads and therefore the cars tend to be much bigger than in the UK for example, so be prepared to drive on multilane highways.
• Get a SatNav especially if you are driving out of LA.
• Always get the full insurance when renting a car.
• Buy a phone charger for the car.

One thing that we get asked quite a bit is how much will this trip cost. It is hard to give you a definitive answer because it all depends on what kind of hotel you want to stay in, where you want to eat, and what you want to see.

For example, hotels are quite pricey in the US (compared to Europe) and ideally you will want to stay in the city centre, so you need to factor this in. It also depends on the time of year you visit, as hotels are more expensive in peak season. We probably spent around $1800 on accommodation alone on our trip, which was mid range accommodation, but always in a central location. We also had about $2000 spending money between the two of us for this time, as we did pay for a lot of tours and attractions.

While hotels are expensive, food tends to be quite a bit cheaper than in Australia or the UK. Portion sizes are also a lot bigger so you do get more bang for your buck. Overall the US isn’t massively expensive, but again it depends on where you are going and what you are doing.

When is the best time to plan your 2 week West Coast USA trip?

A trip to the West Coast USA is doable at any time of the year, but there are probably some factors that you need to consider. Also keep in mind it will be a completely different style trip depending what time of year you visit.

Summer will obviously be peak in terms of accommodation and tourism, so things will be a bit more expensive. Also, if you are planning to visit California, but LA more specifically you are looking at temperatures in the 30’s (Celsius) or 87 (Fahrenheit).

Las Vegas is also pretty warm in the summer months. And when I say pretty warm, I mean hot and humid. Even days spent by the pool can be a little unbearable.

If you are planning your 2 week west coast USA itinerary for the summer months make sure you book accommodation and tours well in advance. And pack weather appropriate clothes, and suncream!

Winter tends to be more of the off season on the west coast. In my opinion the cities, particularly LA, Vegas, and San Fran are made for warmer weather, so they can feel slightly disappointing in the winter months. Seattle tends to get colder, whilst LA and Las Vegas are slightly more mild.

If you can we would recommend visiting during the shoulder season. For example in September and October temperatures are more mild. April and are also good times to visit because things are warming up slightly and the spring time is exceptionally beautiful in places like Big Bear.

There are less tourists at these times of year, and accommodation is much cheaper than the summer.

If you are on the fence about whether you should plan a 2 week West Coast USA itinerary, then hopefully this will persuade you to go. The West Coast is a truly amazing part of the USA especially if you like sunshine, beaches, and much more.

Hopefully this 2 week West Coast USA itinerary will help you plan your next trip. Please do pin this post for later if you found it useful.

Wanderlust and Life is a blog for those that love to travel.

Similar Posts

The best San Francisco weekend itinerary for first time visitors

When we first arrived in San Francisco we had one of those, we’re not in Kansas anymore, kind of moments. The vibe was instantly different to anywhere else we had been in the US. It is way more laid back and for a big city people certainly were a lot more friendly. San Francisco is…

6 New York City Neighbourhoods You Have To Explore

When you visit New York it is easy to become overwhelmed. There is literally so much to see and every time we visit we always feel like there is not enough time to do it all. You have your tourist attractions like the Empire State or Top of the Rock, your chic restaurants, and of…

10 must eat foods in New York City and why you have to try them all

New York is a foodie’s paradise! You can pretty much walk down any block in the city and stumble upon a trendy restaurant or a super cool bakery. But some food go beyond trends and are just intrinsically good like your pizza slices or your hot dogs. And yes these are just some of the…

Is Chicago worth visiting? Is Chicago safe? And everything else you have wanted to know

Are you planning a trip to the US and wondering is Chicago worth visiting? In this article we answer all the important questions like, is Chicago expensive, is Chicago safe, and what is there to do in Chicago, to help you decide if you should go. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, so if you use…

53 awesome ideas for your Toronto bucket list

Toronto is a pretty awesome destination, with fascinating buildings, natural beauty, and some pretty awesome bars. If you are planning to visit Toronto here are 53 of the most awesome ideas to add to your Toronto bucket list. Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links, so if you use these links to buy something we may earn…

Is Las Vegas worth visiting? And everything else you have wanted to know

Are you planning a trip to Sin City and want to know if it is worth the hype? In this guide we answer the question is Las Vegas worth visiting as well as all the other important things like is Las Vegas expensive, and what is there to do in Las Vegas. And hopefully by…

One Comment

• Pingback: Fun cheap and FREE things to do in San Francisco · Boarding Call

Comments are closed.

Ultimate USA West Coast Itinerary 2 Weeks

From the sunny skies and the big city feel of California to the scenic views in Washington, a road trip along the Pacific West Coast of the United States makes for an excellent family vacation idea. 

As you travel through the three Pacific states along the West Coast, you will have the chance to experience everything from amusement parks, rainforests, beautiful beaches, natural wonders, national parks, and more.

If you’re looking for the perfect summer vacation with the family and only have 2 weeks to explore the west coast, pack your bags and get ready for a road trip your family will never forget!

LAX to Los Angeles, California

Los angeles to yosemite national park , yosemite national park to bend, oregon, bend, oregon to yakima, washington, yakima, washington to seattle, washington, seattle, washington to portland, oregon, portland, oregon to sacramento, california, sacramento, california to los angeles, california, suggested alternate 3 week us west coast itinerary.

Driving the Great Alpine Road Victoria

Perth to Exmouth Road Itinerary: 2024 Driving Guide

Epic Eyre Peninsula Road Trip Itinerary Exploring South…

We’ve put together the best route and itinerary that will take you along the Pacific coast, with stops in California and Oregon and completing your travels in Washington.

With travel time and time to enjoy the attractions and sights along the way, we estimate that you will need approximately two weeks for this epic family road trip – though you could easily spend a month adding some of our further suggestions along the way (we share an alternate 3 week itinerary at the end!)

• Distance: 14 miles
• Travel Time: 1 Hour

If you’re starting your travels from LAX Airport, it’s best to kick off your adventure in Los Angeles and visit some of its most iconic sights and attractions. While spending time in the city, you’ll get to experience its vibrant energy and check out popular landmarks and must-see spots.

How Long Should I Stay in Los Angeles?

LA is a great place to have a good time, and there is no shortage of fun activities and sights for your family to enjoy, but with so much travel ahead of you, we recommend spending no more than a couple of days in the city before continuing on your trip. 

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

Los Angeles is an extremely busy city, and hundreds of hotels are available to you, ranging from value options to more luxury choices. If you are traveling by RV or motorhome, there are a couple of great RV Parks nearby, including Hollywood RV Park . 

Things to Do in Los Angeles

Hollywood walk of fame.

One of the most famous aspects of the city of Los Angeles is the Hollywood Walk of Fame . It is such a fun experience walking along Hollywood Boulevard and seeing the stars of some of the most famous celebrities, and snagging a picture with some of your personal favorites. 

The Hollywood Sign

The Hollywood Sign is probably one of the most famous and recognizable landmarks in the United States, so you do not want to miss the chance to see it in person. While you are not able to travel up to the actual sign, there are a number of spots that will allow you to get a great view of this famous sign. 

Pro tip: Griffith Observatory is one of the best spots to catch a good view of the sign. Not only will you have a great view, but parking at Griffith Observatory is free, making it an affordable option for a great experience. 

Universal Studios Hollywood

If your family is a fan of theme parks, you won’t want to miss out on a visit to Universal Studios Hollywood.

A visit to the park gives your family a chance for a fun day of theme park rides, good eats, and references to some of the most famous blockbuster hits in history. While we love to spend a few days at Universal Studios to fully enjoy the experience, you can certainly enjoy the park and see a lot of it in just a single day. 

• Distance: 313 Miles
• Travel Time: 6 hours 

Yosemite National Park is one of the most recognizable national parks in the United States and truly is a can’t-miss experience when traveling through California. 

• See our Los Angeles to Yosemite Road Trip itinerary for interesting stops you can make along the way – heading inland or taking the Pacific Coast Highway route.

How Long Should I Stay in Yosemite National Park? 

Yosemite is a pretty large park, and in order to get a full experience, we recommend a minimum of two days in the park. You could easily spread your time across four days if you have extra time. 

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

There are several great lodging options in Yosemite, including tents and cabins at the High Sierra Camps or White Wolf Lodge. If you prefer a hotel-style stay, consider a stay at Yosemite Valley Lodge or The Ahwahnee for a luxury-style room. 

Things to Do in Yosemite National Park

The Grand Tour is a guided tour offered to visitors of Yosemite. This 8-hour-long tour will take you through some of the most notable sights in Yosemite, including Yosemite Valley, Glacier Point, and the Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias. 

Birdwatching

The Yosemite area hosts over 165 species of birds, offering a unique and interesting experience if you choose to view and observe them. 

With over 750 miles of trails throughout Yosemite National Park , hitting the hiking trails is a must. No matter your level of expertise, there are a variety of trails that will fit all levels of difficulty and makes for a fun activity that the whole family will enjoy. 

• Bonus stops: Because of the limited time of two weeks traveling between three states, making as many stops as you may like is hard. If you have extra time, additional stops to consider adding to your itinerary on your way to Yosemite include Death Valley National Park and Kings Canyon Sequoia National Park. We cover these stops in more detail in our Yosemite to Death Valley itinerary .
• Distance: 577 Miles
• Travel Time: 10 Hours

Our next destination is a long stretch, but it brings us into our next state as we travel to Bend, Oregon. Bend offers its visitors a number of activities to enjoy, including natural sights, art, and history. 

How Long Should I Stay in Bend?

After a 10-hour drive, you will likely want to take the rest of the day to relax and recuperate before getting into any activities. After your travel day, we recommend spending an additional 1.5 days, with the second half of your second day being used to head to our next destination. 

• With more time, we’d recommend adding stops at two of the best national parks on the west coast, Lassen Volcanic National Park, CA , and Crater Lake National Park, OR. Although you’d be rushed, you could fit in both with an extra 24 hours, stopping overnight at Redding or Klamath Falls.

Where to Stay in Bend

The city of Bend offers several lodging options for the family. Some of the best kid-friendly hotels offer swimming pools, playgrounds, game rooms, and more. If you are looking for a hotel to book, try the Best Western Premier or the Doubletree by Hilton. If you prefer to stay in an RV park or campground, a few great options in the area include Little Fawn Campground and the Bend/Sisters Garden RV Resort. 

Things to Do in Bend 

High desert museum .

The High Desert Museum shows the history and culture of the West High Desert. During your visit to the museum, you will get the opportunity to see a variety of animals, including otters, raptors, reptiles, and more, as well as beautiful art exhibits and pieces of High Desert history. 

The Ultimate Scavenger Bend 

What better way to see a city than to participate in a scavenger hunt that will have you traveling through the city and stopping at some of the most important landmarks and stops throughout the city of Bend? The Ultimate Scavenger Bend does just that; throughout your hunt, you will see notable sites, including murals, statues, and more. 

Deschutes National Forest

The Deschutes National Forest is nearly 1.6 million acres and makes for a perfect day outdoors with the family. There are a number of beautiful sights to see and outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, biking, horseback riding, and ATV riding.

During this visit, you can also see the Newberry National Volcanic Monument , a natural sight featuring lakes, lava flows, and beautiful rock formations. 

• Check out this detailed guide to all the best family-friendly activities in Bend
• Distance: 218 miles
• Travel Time: 4 hours

Yakima is a city in Central Washington that offers beautiful scenery, quiet and peaceful surroundings, and its plentiful bounty of quality agriculture products. Yakima is known for the many beautiful apple orchards and wineries featuring fresh barrelled wine in the area. The city is also rich in Native American history and is named after the Yakima Indians who resided nearby. 

How Long Should I Stay in Yakima?

While Yakima is absolutely beautiful, it is not a city that you need to spend a whole lot of time in. We would recommend spending the day there and then moving on to your next destination. 

Where to Stay in Yakima

The Yakima area offers a number of sleeping accommodations to fit any style/budget that you may be looking for. Some options include the Oxford Suites Yakima, the Cozy Rose Inn Bed & Breakfast, and Yakima Sportsman State Park, where you will find camping and RV accommodations. 

Things to Do in Yakima

Yakima valley museum.

This museum offers a look into the history and culture of Yakima Valley. With everything from wooden wagons, Indiana arts & artifacts, natural history exhibits, and even a fully operational soda fountain from the 1930s!

Yakima Valley U-Pick Farms

As we mentioned above, Yakima is known for its plentiful and quality produce so it is only right that you see what we’re talking about and even have the chance to try some fruits and vegetables to taste the quality. At Yakima Valley U-Pick Farms , you will be able to pick a variety of produce, including berries, apricots, and eggplant, plus get the chance to see and pet the farm animals. 

Outdoor Activities

There are a number of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy including hiking and biking trails, water sports such as fishing and paddle boating, and horseback riding adventures. 

• Distance: 142 miles
• Travel Time: 2 hours and 15 minutes

As we continue to travel through Washington state , our next stop is one of the most recognizable cities in both the state and the United States, Seattle, and is the largest city in the state of Washington. Seattle is a beautiful city, surrounded by water, mountains, and forests. 

How Long Should I Stay in Seattle? 

Seattle is a beautiful city, and there is so much to see and do . If time allows it, we recommend spending at least two full days in the city to get a full experience during your stay. 

Where to Stay in Seattle

There are a variety of lodging options in Seattle, varying from family-friendly hotels, luxury resorts, and even private cabins and campgrounds. Some popular choices for lodging in the area include Courtyard by Marriott Seattle/Northgate, Crystal Mountain Hotels, and Lake Pleasant RV Park. 

Things to Do in Seattle

Space needle.

The Seattle Space Needle is the most recognizable landmark in Seattle. The Space Needle stands at 605 feet tall and is definitely a sight you don’t want to miss when visiting Seattle. Hop on the elevator and ride up to the observation level, where you will experience the sights of Seattle from up above; the views are breathtaking!

Pike Place Market 

Pike Place Market is another can’t-miss attraction in Seattle. As you walk through the market, you will enjoy live music, street performers, art, and of course, a variety of fresh market foods. If you can stand the ick factor, seek out the nearby ‘gum wall’. Fun fact: Did you know that the original Starbucks cafe is located at Pike Place Market? If you are a coffee drinker, this is a can’t-miss experience for you!

Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)

If you or your kids are a fan of pop culture , this is an attraction you will want to have on your agenda. As you walk through the museum, you will have the chance to see exhibits on some of the most famous concepts, people, and movies throughout pop culture history. Outside you’ll also find one of the best playgrounds in Seattle!

Pro tip: Seattle is known for its rainy weather conditions. If you are visiting the area, you can expect rain at least part of the time you are there, be sure to pack your rain gear essentials!

• More time on your itinerary? Drive the complete Olympic Peninsula and explore Olympic National Park, one of the most diverse and fascinating parks to explore with kids on the west coast.
• Distance: 174 miles
• Travel Time: 2 hours and 43 minutes

As we head back down the coast, our next destination is Portland, Oregon. Portland is the largest city in Oregon and a stop you don’t want to miss when traveling through the state. Portland is known as an eco-friendly city due to the number of parks, bridges, and bicycle paths there are in the city to encourage gas-less travel. 

How Long Should I Stay in Portland?

The good news is that Portland is just a short drive from Seattle, giving you plenty of time to explore the city. We recommend spending at least a day and a half in the city to ensure you see the can’t-miss stops; however, there is plenty to see if you choose to dedicate more time to your stay. 

Where to Stay in Portland

The area that you choose to stay in Portland will determine the types of lodging available. For example, if you stay in Downtown Portland, you may consider Residence Inn by Marriott Portland Downtown/Riverplace. Other popular areas in the city include the Pearl District and Rose City Park.

If you are traveling by RV, you may want to check out Jantzen Beach RV Park for accommodations. 

Things to Do in Portland

Powell’s city of books.

If you are a fan of books and reading, you cannot miss a chance to see Powell’s, the largest new and used bookstore in the world. There are over a million books in the store, and simply traveling through the 10 rooms is a great way to spend a few hours. The store has quickly become a popular Portland landmark and tourist stop for visitors, covering an entire city block. 

Local zoos are always a family favorite attraction for us. It seems to be an activity that every member of the family equally enjoys. The Oregon Zoo ranks in the top 20 in the US, featuring nearly 1,800 animals spanning over 200 unique species. 

International Rose Test Garden

As soon as you walk up toward the International Rose Garden , the smell of fresh roses will hit you. Walking through the garden creates a sense of relaxation and freshness that your family will love, particularly with the stress of travel! It is free to enter the garden, making it a great affordable activity for the family to enjoy. 

Bonus tip (Adults Only!): Portland is known for having some of the greatest wineries, coffee shops, and microbreweries in the US. If you are looking for an adult beverage you may consider checking out some local options. 

• Catch our complete family guide to Portland with kids
• Distance: 579 miles
• Travel Time: 9 hours and 22 minutes

Traveling from Portland to Sacramento will be another long stretch of travel time that may be tiring and long, but this will bring us full circle back into the state of California and heading back to our origin point of LA.

Being the capital of California, we thought Sacramento would be a great final stop on our road trip. There is plenty to see and do in Sacramento that will make for your family vacation’s perfect ending. 

• For the alternate route along Highway 101 and the beautiful Oregon Coast , follow along with this Portland to San Francisco itinerary – you need at least an extra day to capture even the highlights, including the coastal Redwoods National & State Parks

How Long Should I Stay in Sacramento?

Because of your long travel time, you will likely want to spend your arrival day resting and recharging to hit the city the following day. You can wrap up your trip heading back to LA in just a few hours, so we would recommend spending whatever days you have left to spare in Sacramento exploring the area, at least one full day, but there is room for additional days if you have them. 

Where to Stay in Sacramento

There are a couple of areas we recommend staying in Sacramento, depending on the type of stay you are looking for. If you would prefer to be in the heart of the city, we recommend finding lodging in Downtown Sacramento.

Comparatively, if you prefer a more low-key, family-friendly environment, you will want to look for something on the west side of the city near Davis, about 20 miles away from downtown. 

Things to Do in Sacramento

California state capitol museum.

The California State Capitol Museum showcases the state’s history in a variety of exhibits. As you make your way through the museum, you will learn so much about California and how it has evolved over the years.

Exhibits do rotate regularly, so you never know what you may learn during your visit. Popular exhibits in the past have included Iconic California: The State Symbols that Represent California and The Road Ahead: The Automobiles Impact on California.  

Fairytale Town

If you’re looking for a day of fun, a visit to Fairytale Town is highly recommended. Fairytale Town is a non-profit amusement park dedicated to bringing kids joy.

The park hosts attractions that feature some of the most famous storybook characters through time. Plus, kiddos will get the chance to learn during their visit and pet real-life animals. 

Old Sacramento Waterfront

If you want to enjoy all that Sacramento has to offer in one spot, spending the day at Old Sacramento Waterfront is the perfect way to do so. This historic district features attractions, entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences that embody the culture and vibe of Sacramento. There is something for everyone at the waterfront, and your family will be sure to have a great time!

• Distance: 386 miles
• Travel Time: 6 hours

As our trip comes to a close, we will travel from Sacramento back to Los Angeles, and it is safe to say that you will be worn out and tired of traveling! Your route back to LA opens a great opportunity to make quick stops and travel through popular cities in California, including San Francisco and San Jose, if you have any additional time to spare.

You will add an additional hour and a half taking the more scenic Higwhay 101 back to LA. Or, if you’re prepared for the dramatic winds and bends of Highway 1, your journey will take closer to 10 hours (but will encompass Big Sur and some of the most epic coastal scenery in North America!).

We have summarised for you here our highlights tour of the US West Coast in 2 weeks.

However, if you can extend your west coast vacation to 3 weeks, there are so many more highlights you can fit in. Remembering just how long driving distances can be with kids in the car, these additional stops will break up your daily drives and encompass more of the natural beauty the west coast has to offer :

© Family Road Trip

Sensational South Coast NSW Road Trip Itinerary

Epic Christchurch to Queenstown Road Trip Itinerary

2 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary – Australia’s Spectacular Coastal Drive

How To Plan The Perfect Red Centre Way Itinerary Through Outback Australia

2 Day Great Ocean Road Itinerary – Australia’s…

Finding the Universe

Travel tales, photography and a dash of humor

2 Week USA Road Trip Itinerary: California, Las Vegas & the Grand Canyon

Last updated: March 6, 2024 . Written by Laurence Norah - 13 Comments

We’ve taken a lot of road trips in the USA, and it is our favorite country for taking road trips. From Route 66 to the Oregon Trail to the Pacific Coast Highway to the Deep South , we’ve had some amazing adventures by road across the states.

One of our most popular road trip itineraries for the USA is our two week California road trip itinerary . However, I’m often asked by readers how to adapt it to include some other popular destinations in the USA, specifically Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon .

In response to this request, I’ve put together this detailed two week USA road trip itinerary through parts of the southwest and western USA.

This itinerary includes highlights of California, such as Yosemite and Death Valley national parks, as well as the Pacific Coast Highway, San Francisco and Los Angeles. It also has you driving some iconic stretches of Route 66, spending time in Las Vegas, and taking a visit to the incredible Grand Canyon.

This is an extension to the popular “Golden Triangle” road trip, which usually features Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and San Francisco. Our road trip itinerary takes you across three states – California, Arizona and Nevada, and would suit trips of two to three weeks.

Obviously, as you are trying to see a fair bit in this itinerary, it does require quite a bit of driving, and you won’t be able to see absolutely everything on offer. We’d suggest a minimum of two weeks for this trip, but if you have a little longer, then you could easily stretch it out to three weeks or more, and have a few more stops along the way.

For now though, let’s take a look at this itinerary on a day by day basis to see what it looks like. As always, please just use this itinerary as a guide, and feel free to adjust it to your particular interests!

USA Road Trip Itinerary

I’ve designed this itinerary to be circular, so you start and finish at the same place. This makes things like car hire easier, as often there’s a one-way fee if you rent a car in one place and leave it somewhere else. However, this isn’t always the case, for example, we’ve rented in Las Vegas and dropped off in San Francisco and not been charged a fee.

Of course, if you are wanting to avoid driving in the USA, then you can also take tours that follow a very similar route to this one, such as this one . You can check out a list of tour options later in the post.

A circular route also means that you can start and finish at any point on the route, and you can do it in either direction. If you’re flying to the start, cities with major airports include Las Vegas, San Francisco and Los Angeles. For now, we’ll assume you’re going to start in Las Vegas.

Days 1 & 2 – Las Vegas

We recommend starting your US road trip in Las Vegas. The city is world famous as basically an adults playground, with gambling, shows, restaurants and bars aplenty. It’s an easy place to spend a lot of money very quickly!

However, there is definitely a lot more to Las Vegas than the famous Las Vegas Strip, both in town, and in the nearby area. The stunning Valley of Fire state park is a short drive away, and you can also visit the impressive Hoover Dam very easily. So whether you are into natural wonders or man-made delights, you should find something to do.

Our recommendation would be to spend your two days in Las Vegas. There is a lot to do in the city, and if you arriving from a different time zone, these two days will give you time to adjust and acclimatize. However, if you do want to head out of the city, we have included a couple of suggested trips to popular nearby attractions as well.

Things to do in Las Vegas

With around two days to explore, depending on when you arrive in the city, you should be able to see a good amount in Las Vegas.

Some of our personal highlights we recommend include the views from the top of the Stratosphere Tower, visiting the famous Welcome to Las Vegas sign for a photo opportunity, walking the Strip at night, watching the famous Bellagio fountains display and taking in the Mob Museum.

You will also likely want to take in one of the shows that are hosted every evening at venues across the city. There’s a huge number of shows to choose from, you can see the options and book them online in advance here . Other popular activities in Vegas include dining. The city is home to a number of truly world class restaurants, as well as quite spectacular buffets.

There’s also no shortage of shopping if you want to indulge in a bit of retail therapy. We’d also suggest taking a bit of down time and relaxing by your hotel pool as part of your acclimatization strategy. There’s going to be a lot of driving and sight-seeing in the days ahead, so a bit time relaxing by the pool with a beer or cocktail will start your trip off on the right foot. Alternatively, there are also a number of fun rides you can take in the city, if you’re more of a thrill seeker.

Finally, you will probably want to take part in the pastime that Vegas is most well-known for – gambling. There’s a huge number of casinos to choose from, with many of the hotels also running huge casino operations. Even if you don’t wish to gamble, it is worth visiting a few of the casinos as the buildings themselves are so iconic.

In terms of getting around Las Vegas, the city has a lot of options. It’s also relatively spread out, so whilst you can walk, it will likely take you longer than you think to get around on foot. The temperatures in summer also make walking very uncomfortable.

Instead, you might consider one of the popular rideshare services, taxis, or the monorail, which connects many of the key points of the city together. We would advise against driving in the Las Vegas – parking fees are high, and the roads are busy.

If you’d prefer to head out of the city for either part of all of one of your days in the city, we’d recommend visiting either the Hoover Dam and taking the tour there or heading out to the Valley of Fire State Park . If you head out early and have your own vehicle you can fit both into one day out.

The Hoover Dam is an incredible feat of modern engineering and is regarded as one of the seven wonders of the industrial world .

The Valley of Fire State Park is home to spectacular landscapes, made up from wonderfully colored rocks which give the park its name

The Hoover Dam is a ticketed attraction, with different tours available. Some of these tours can be purchased in advance online, whilst others are only available in person. If you choose to take a tour that requires an in person ticket purchase you will want to arrive early as slots are limited and this is a popular attraction. See more on ticket types and prices on the official website here .

The Valley of Fire State Park also has a fee, which is charged per vehicle rather than per person, and you can see details of that here . There are a number of short hikes you can take to explore the park, or you can just drive to observation points and enjoy the views.

Note that if you are doing this road trip in the summer, hiking is generally not recommended as it gets very hot, often in excess of 100F / 37C. Visiting the Valley of Fire at this time of year is not as pleasant an experience as in the cooler months.

You can either take a tour to reach our suggested sites or you can drive yourself. If you don’t want to pick up your rental car yet, or would just prefer the convenience of a tour, here are some options to consider:

• A three hour mini tour of the Hoover Dam, where you will see the main exterior highlights but not the interior parts
• A 4-6 hour guided hiking tour of the Valley of Fire from Las Vegas, with varying levels of hike available depending on your fitness

Whether you decide to spend all your time in Las Vegas or take in some of the surrounding attractions, we’re sure you won’t run out of things to do here.

For more inspiration, see our guide to things to do in Las Vegas which has lots more ideas as well as tips on saving money.

Where to Stay in Las Vegas

There’s no shortage of places to stay in Las Vegas. Our suggestion would be to try and stay on or near the Strip if possible, as this will make it easier to get to many of the sights. We’d also suggest staying in one of the casinos because that’s part of the Vegas experience! Here are some suggested options to get you started across a range of budgets.

• Travelodge by Wyndham Las Vegas Airport – if you’re looking for a budget hotel and don’t mind not being on the strip or having an on-site casino, this 2* Travelodge offers comfortable rooms, free parking and a breakfast bag.
• The D Las Vegas – found in the older part of Las Vegas, amongst the famous neon of Fremont Street, this hotel offers good value accommodation as well as on-site casino.
• Luxor – if you ever wanted to sleep in a pyramid, without the associated hassle of becoming an Egyptian pharaoh and dying, the Luxor is for you. This 3* hotel is famous for its iconic pyramid shape, and is handily located near the Welcome to Las Vegas sign. Naturally there’s a casino, range of dining options and usually some kind of show or entertainment to enjoy.
• New York, New York – another well known Vegas hotel, this property was constructed to resemble the New York skyline, complete with a 150 feet Statue of Liberty. There’s an on-site rollercoaster, casino, range of restaurants, and live shows.
• Flamingo Las Vegas – this is the oldest resort hotel on the Strip, although don’t let that put you off as it’s been refurbished a number of times. It offers colourful rooms, a huge on-site casino, and good prices for the central location. Another of our favourites in Vegas.
• Bellagio – found behind the famous fountains, this is one of the most iconic five star hotels in Las Vegas. Many rooms offer spectacular strip views, and there’s an on site casino, multiple dining options, and on site entertainment. A great option for those with a larger budget, or just looking to start the trip in style. We loved our stay here.

Day 3 – Grand Canyon

It’s time to start the real road trip part of your adventure! If you’re picking up your rental car, now is the time to do that if you haven’t already.

For your third day you’ll want to get an early start as you’ve got around 300 miles to go, or just under a five hour drive.

It’s worth it though, for what is arguably one of mother nature’s most spectacular sights in the world – the Grand Canyon.

You have a couple of options for your drive. First, you can drop down to Kingman, Arizona, and then take the I-40 all the way to Williams, Arizona, before turning north.

However, you might prefer to take the more scenic route along a stretch of the legendary Route 66 driving route . This runs from Kingman, Arizona, up to Peach Springs and back down to Seligman, where you join the I-40. This won’t add much to your journey (around 20 minutes extra driving time), but will give you the opportunity to follow just over 80 miles of Route 66.

There are a few notable highlights along this stretch of the route which are worth stopping at, even if just for a quick photo opportunity. These include Hackberry General Store, a Route 66 era gas station in Truxton, and the Grand Canyon Caverns . You can see more options for this stretch of the route in this part of our 2 week Route 66 guide .

Now, onto the main attraction of the day – the Grand Canyon! This is a National Park with entry fees, which are charged per vehicle. You can see information on prices, opening times and concessions here .

You are basically going to have most of the afternoon, the evening, and the following morning to visit the park. Obviously, more time would be best, but we’re on a schedule for this itinerary. If you do want to do more activities here though, including lengthier hikes, you will definitely want to extend your stay here.

Let’s assume you are following this itinerary though, and have around 1.5 days at the Grand Canyon. I would recommend spending this as follows.

Things to do at the Grand Canyon

First, I suggest visiting the main Grand Canyon Visitor Centre in Grand Canyon Village. This has detailed information on the park, with exhibits on a range of subjects including the geology, geography, and wildlife of the park. There’s also a 20 minute video you can watch to get acquainted with the park.

You can also talk to the rangers based here who can give you advice for everything related to your visit, from shuttle timetables through to great spots to watch the sunset and sunrise, and suggested short hikes that you can take to match your specific fitness.

From the visitor centre, it’s a short walk to Mather Point which offers incredible views across the Canyon. You can also walk along the trail which follows the rim in both directions, for more views (and fewer crowds).

At this point you’ll probably want to head to your accommodation and check-in, after which, depending on how much time you have, you may want to take the shuttle bus to one of the viewpoints along the rim. I’d definitely recommend ensuring you have a good spot to watch the sunset – I have a guide to the best places to watch the sunset and sunrise at the Grand Canyon here .

Finally, after a long day it’s time to turn in. On the morning of your fourth day I suggest taking another short hike if that interests you, or driving to some of the many viewpoints along the rim as you exit the park.

Where to Stay at the Grand Canyon

You have a few options for staying at the Grand Canyon. My recommendation is to stay on-site at the south rim in Grand Canyon Village. There are five hotels to choose from, plus two campgrounds. They cover a range of budgets, but be aware you do pay a bit of a premium for the location. You can see all the options available here .

If you want to stay at any of these, you will definitely need to book online in advance as they are all very popular and do sell out.

The hotels are all operated by Grand Canyon Lodges, and can be booked online here .

The two campgrounds are Mather Campground (no RV hookups) and Trailer Village (full hook-ups available).

Mather Campground is operated by the National Parks Service, and can be booked online here . Trailer Village is a concession, which can be booked online here .

Day 4 – Route 66 to Joshua Tree National Park

Your fourth day of this itinerary has you heading to California, with your destination being the Joshua Tree National Park .

You have a decent amount of driving today, and again we’re going to suggest you take the opportunity to take in stretches of iconic Route 66. Doing so will result in around a 6.5 hour drive, or around 375 miles of driving. If you would prefer a more direct route, it’s around 5.5 hours / 361 miles.

We think the scenic route is worth it though, as this drive across the wild and rugged back country of California and parts of Arizona Is truly spectacular, and one we always enjoy. Specifically, you will follow I-40 to Kingman, then take the 10 out to Oatman. This town maintains the feel of a former wild west frontier town, and burros still roam the streets. There are even regular “gunfights” here, staged for the benefit of visiting tourists.

Just note, the traffic around Oatman can be quite slow (and even stop sometimes) as a result of the daily shows. In addition, the road up to Oatman is quite curvy, so you will want to take your time.

From Oatman, you’ll head on to Needles, one of the hottest places in the USA, follow the I-40 for a short while longer, and then rejoin Route 66 to pass through Amboy. A photo stop and a purchase of Route 66 Route beer is essential at Roy’s Motel in Amboy!

From Amboy, it’s due south until you reach Twentynine Palms. This is where you can access the Joshua Tree National Park, which we suggest you leave until the following day.

Once you consider various stops for photo opportunities, dining and so on, you will likely have used up all your useful daylight by now, so we suggest stopping overnight in Twentynine Palms, and continuing your adventures tomorrow. Of course, if you’re a fan of astrophotography , you might want to pop into the park, which has some excellent star gazing and astrophotography opportunities. But it’s up to you.

Where to Stay Near Joshua Tree National Park

There are no hotels within the park grounds, although there are nine campgrounds to choose from if you plan on camping. You can book these campgrounds online here . I’ve camped at the Jumbo Rocks campground and it was an amazing experience.

Otherwise, we would suggest staying in a property in Twentynine Palms. There is a good choice of 2 and 3 star properties to choose from, such as:

• 9 Palms Inn – this budget 2* property gets good reviews, and rooms come with a coffee machine, microwave and refrigerator. There’s also free parking on site.
• El Rancho Dolores – this is a great value 3* property with a seasonal pool. Rooms have microwaves and refrigerator, and free parking is included.
• Sunnyvale Garden Suites – a very well rated 2* hotel offering a range of suites, each of which comes with a BBQ as well as a full kitchen. There’s a hot tub and gym on site, and free parking is available.
• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites – this 3* chain hotel offers comfortable and well reviewed accommodation, with an outdoor heated pool and fitness centre. Rooms have coffee making facilities, microwave and small fridge, and there are BBQ facilities available for guest use.
• Flying Point Homestead – if you want something a little bit different, check out this property. It’s actually a holiday home rather than a hotel, but one of the options is a beautiful silver streak trailer!

If you want a higher end experience, you would need to head on to Palm Springs, where there are a number of spa resorts and high end 4* hotels to choose from, such as The Palm Springs Hotel or the Alcazar Palm Springs .

Day 5 – San Diego or Joshua Tree

You have a couple of options for your fifth day, depending on whether you prefer nature or cities. You can spend the day exploring the Joshua Tree National Park , where there are plentiful hiking and wilderness activities. Or, you can press on to San Diego, where there are plentiful city and cultural attractions to choose from.

If you choose to spend the day exploring and hiking at Joshua Tree National park, we’d suggest visiting the Oasis Visitor Centre in Twentynine Palms, where you can learn about the park and get advice and information on your visit. Conditions can vary in the park depending on the weather and time of year, so obtaining up to date information is useful.

There’s also an entry fee for the park, which covers one vehicle for a week.

If you decide to spend the day exploring Joshua tree, then we recommend spending another night near the park, and then heading to Los Angeles the next morning after breakfast, just under 3 hours drive away.

If you choose to spend the day exploring San Diego, it is about a 3 hour drive to San Diego from Twentynine Palms. If you wanted to, you could spend a few hours in the morning at Joshua Tree and then head into the city. We’d suggest you spend the afternoon of Day 5 and morning of Day 6 in San Diego, and you won’t run out of things to do.

Here are some ideas:

Things to do in San Diego for a Day

We can recommend visiting the excellent USS Midway Museum , which is a fantastic museum ship found on what was, for a long time, the largest ship in the world. Built just as the second world war ended, this aircraft carrier saw service in the Vietnam War as well as the first Gulf War.

You can easily spend your whole afternoon here, and lovers of military or aviation history will definitely want to come here. There’s also the nearby  San Diego Air and Space Museum .

There are lots of other sights to choose from in San Diego. Don’t miss a wander through the historical gaslamp district, and a visit to San Diego Zoo is a popular option especially with families. If you would prefer to visit the beach, Coronado Beach is well worth visiting.

See our complete guide to things to do in San Diego for more ideas!

Where to Stay in San Diego

San Diego is a major city and as such there is no shortage of excellent accommodation options to choose from. Of course, the flip side being that budget accommodations are a little harder to come by, although there are still some options. Here are our picks for your time in San Diego.

• HI San Diego Downtown Hostel – this is a great value centrally located hostel, although be aware you’ll have to pay for parking. Private and shared accommodation is available and guests can use an on-site kitchen.
• Berkshire Motor Hotel  – this budget 3* motel offers free parking, a little way north of the city centre. Rooms are en-suite and have a refrigerator. A good budget option.
• Coronado Inn – a well priced 3* inn on Coronado Island with free parking and breakfast included. All rooms are en-suite, and free bicycle hire is available.
• Moxy San Diego Gaslamp Quarter – a great value and very well reviewed 4* hotel in the Gaslamp quarter. All rooms are en-suite and breakfast is available. Note that parking in this area is expensive.
• The Westgate Hotel – another well reviewed and centrally located 4* San Diego hotel. There’s a rooftop pool, full spa, on-site gym and a full service restaurant. Paid parking is possible on site.
• 1906 Lodge – We loved our stay at this historic bed and breakfast just near Coronado Beach. Rooms are very comfortable and uniquely decorated, and each features a microwave and fridge.The included breakfast was excellent, and the free parking was appreciated.
• Pendry San Diego – if you want five star city centre luxury, this is a great option. You get an outdoor pool, beautiful rooms, and breakfast is available. On-site parking is also possible for a fee.

Days 6 & 7 – Los Angeles

From San Diego, it’s time to turn north, and visit the sprawling city of Los Angeles, the largest city in California and the second most populous city in the USA. From San Diego, it’s around a 2 hour drive up the coast to LA.

There is a huge amount to see and do in Los Angeles, and the city is quite spread out, so we feel you will want to spend a couple of days here to do it justice. Of course, if you aren’t a city person, you can adjust this itinerary to spend more time at the outdoor attractions along the route instead.

Based on our itinerary though, you’ll have one full day in Los Angeles (Day 7) and then half a day on Day 6, depending on what time you leave San Diego. Here are some ideas of how to fill that time.

Things to do in Los Angeles

There is a huge amount to do in Los Angeles, so you will need to pick and choose depending on your particular interests.

We think most visitors will enjoy visiting the Hollywood part of town, where you can see the Hollywood Walk of Fame. There’s also a good view of the famous Hollywood Sign from the north-east corner of the Hollywood & Highland retail centre. Other attractions in this area include Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! and The Hollywood Museum.

Another popular activity is to get a behind the scenes tour of a movie studio. A couple of popular options are the Paramount Pictures Studio Tour , and Universal Studios . Both are active movie studios where you can take tours of the working movie lots, with Universal Studios also home to a number of rides and other attractions.

Art lovers will want to take the time to visit the Getty Center . This free art museum is famous for its spectacular views, lovely gardens, architecture, and of course, art collection! The latter focuses primarily on pre 20th century European art, as well as photographs and sculpture. Note that whilst the Getty Center is free, there is a fee to park here if you visit by car.

If you are planning on seeing a sporting event or concert, or for the famous LA nightlife, you might want to stay in the LA Live area, where there are many venues for entertainment.

If you love the beach, then you’ll want to head out to the coast and visit Venice Beach and Santa Monica, where a stroll along the pier is a must. Naturally there’s plenty more to see and do in Los Angeles, and we’re sure you won’t run out of things to do. Just be aware the city is vast, and sprawls across a large area, so you will want to carefully plan your time so as to see everything you want.

In terms of getting around LA, the most popular option is to drive, although the traffic is legendary. If you would prefer not to drive, you have other options. We’ve use the ridesharing options, but also found the Hop on Hop off bus was a great option, as it took us all around the main sights we wanted to see, and even went all the way out to the beach.

There are also public transport options in LA, including an extensive bus network and a metro.

Where to Stay in Los Angeles

As the second largest city in the USA, there are a lot of places to stay in Los Angeles. One thing to bear in mind though is that the city sprawls across a vast area and is known for its heavy traffic. It can take a long time to get from one end of the city to the other, so do keep this in mind.

We’d suggest picking a hotel near the attractions you are most interested in. We tend to stay either in Santa Monica or the Hollywood area, both of which made for a good base for local exploration of those areas. Here are some of our recommended hotels in the city.

• Santa Monica Motel – this basic 2* motel offers a good location for Santa Monica and is around a 10 minute walk from Santa Monica Pier. There’s free morning coffee and free parking, and rooms come with coffee makers and in-room refrigerators. It’s definitely a good value location and we’ve stayed here. Just be aware there is no A/C, although we visited in the summer and the provided fan unit worked fine.
• Banana Bungalow – this hostel offers shared and private accommodation, around a mile from the downtown Hollywood area. There’s free parking on-site, and reviews are positive.
• Orange Drive Hostel – a short walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, this is a well-reviewed hostel offering shared and private rooms, with on-site kitchen and laundry facilities. Breakfast is included, and parking is available for a good price.
• Magic Castle Hotel – this 3* hotel is a short walk from the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and you get a pool, unlimited free snacks, free continental breakfast and reasonably priced parking. It’s also a short walk to the Hollywood Bowl, and only three miles from Universal Studios. We really enjoyed staying here, and it is particularly popular with families
• Best Western Plus Hollywood Hills – this 3* well rated hotel just a few minutes walk from the Hollywood walk of fame offers spacious rooms with microwaves and coffee makers, as well as on on-site diner. On-site parking is also available
• Villa Delle Stelle – this boutique hotel in central Hollywood gets excellent reviews and will make you feel like a celebrity. Each suite is designed after a specific old Hollywood Celebrity, and guests can avail of celebrity style services such as in-room massages, private chefs and a personal trainer. Free parking is also included.
• JW Marriott Los Angeles L.A. LIVE – we’ve stayed at this 4* hotel in the LA Live area, which is perfect if you plan to take in a show in the nearby area. Rooms are luxurious and feature mini-fridges and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also a rooftop pool and six restaurants to choose from. Parking is available on-site for a fee.
• The Georgian Hotel – this beautiful 1933 4* Art Deco hotel is a short walk from Santa Monica pier, and offers ocean views and on-site dining. Breakfast is available, and parking is available on-site for a fee.

Days 8 & 9 – Pacific Coast Highway

Now it’s time to head north on one of the world’s most beautiful road trips – the Pacific Coast Highway . You’ll follow this coastal route from Los Angeles all the way to San Francisco. The total drive is around 450 miles, which would take you about 9 hours if you drove it straight in one go.

Of course, we’re not going to recommend you do it all in one go. We suggest you take two days and two nights to drive the route. We’d suggest stopping somewhere like San Luis Obispo, Morro Bay or Cambria for your first night on the route, and then in Monterey, Carmel, or Pacific Grove for your second night. You will then arrive into San Francisco in the morning of your 10th day.

There is a huge amount to see and do along the route, as well as just taking in the spectacular vistas as you do so. We have a complete guide to driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which should give you lots of ideas. However, some suggested stops along the route would be as follows, in order from south to north.

Highlights of the Pacific Coast Highway

Soon after you leave Los Angeles you’ll drive through Malibu, which is famous for its beach, and the home of many celebrities. There’s also a pier you can walk along. As you continue along the coast you’ll pass through numerous towns, many of which also have lovely beaches.

We can recommend visiting Santa Barbara and the Mission here. Founded in 1786, there’s a museum for those interested.

Onwards again, you may want to detour off the 101 and heading to Solvang. This town is famous for its Danish-style architecture, and there are numerous sights and attractions here, including a motorcycle museum, Christmas store, and early 19th century Franciscan church.

It’s also a lovely town to just wander around, and there are plenty of eateries here as well. You’ll also find Pea Soup Andersen’s in nearby Buellton, famous (as the name suggests) for their pea soup.

From Solvang, continue north to San Luis Obispo. You can choose to spend the night here, or you can head a little further along to Morro Bay or Cambria . All three make good stopping points.

On your second day on the Pacific Coast Highway, we’d suggest spending a little time exploring Cambria – we have a complete guide to things to do in Cambria for tips.

From Cambria, we suggest your next stop should be Hearst Castle . This sprawling hilltop castle estate was the home of William Randolph Hearst, an early 20th century media tycoon. The castle has an incredible location, offers amazing views up and down the coast, and is well worth a few hours of your time to visit.

Just be aware that visits are by guided tour only, and it’s best to book in advance to guarantee a time. See more on visiting in our complete guide to visiting Hearst Castle .

A little further north from Hearst Castle is the Elephant Seal vista point . Here, if you visit between November and March, you will see thousands of elephants seals on the beach, as they come to mate and give birth. If you visit outside these months, there will still likely be seals on the beach, but not in quite the same volumes.

You’ll now start to drive along some of the most rugged and beautiful parts of the route, as you drive through the Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park . The views along this stretch of the route are really lovely, and there are plenty of pull outs so you can stop and enjoy the view.

Don’t miss stopping at McWay Cove, where you can see a waterfall plunging onto the beach below. Finally, you’ll finish your day at Carmel By the Sea or Monterey, where you can spend the night. If you have time, you might enjoy taking a drive along the famous 17 mile drive in Pebble Beach .

Where to Stay Along the Pacific Coast Highway

These recommendations are listed from south to north along your route, covering a number of locations we suggest you consider stopping. We love the smaller B&B style accommodation on this stretch of the route, and there are some really nice guesthouse style properties to choose from.

For your first night, we recommend one of the following:

• Apple Farm Inn , San Luis Obispo – we really enjoyed our stay here on one of our Pacific Coast Highway road trips. The rooms are spacious and comfortable, the breakfast was fantastic, and the on-site bakery has some delicious food. There are also two pools on site, and free parking.
• Madonna Inn , San Luis Obispo – this four star family-owned motel just to the south of SLO is a truly quirky destination, and a landmark of the central coast. Each of the 110 rooms is uniquely decorated, with pink being a key theme throughout. We didn’t stay here, but we did have dinner at the Gold Rush steak house on-site, which was fantastic.
• Seaside Inn , Morro Bay – this 2* budget inn is one block from the waterfront. Rooms have a microwave and refrigerator, and there’s free on site parking and coffee.
• Beach Bungalow Inn and Suites , Morro Bay – five minutes walk from the aquarium, this three star inn is very well reviewed. Comfortable rooms have fireplaces, refrigerators and coffee machines, and a hot breakfast is included as is parking.
• Estero Inn , Morro Bay – this exceptionally well reviewed property is found on the beachfront. Rooms all have microwaves, and breakfast is included. A popular option in Morro Bay.
• Cambria Palms Motel , Cambria – this 2* motel is a couple of blocks from downtown, and offers comfortable rooms at a good price. Rooms have refrigerator and coffee machine, and free parking is available on site.
• Bluebird Inn , Cambria -this well rated 2* inn is found on Cambria’s main street. Rooms have microwaves, refrigerators and coffee makers, and there’s free on-site parking
• El Colibri Hotel & Spa , Cambria – on one of our visit to Cambria we stayed here for a couple of nights and really enjoyed it. The rooms are lovely, with fireplaces, and some have spa tubs. There’s an on-site spa, outdoor hot tub, and breakfast is available. Free parking on-site.
• J Patrick House B&B , Cambria – this five star Irish themed inn was Cambria’s first B&B. There’s a a free wine hour, evening cookies and a full breakfast included with your stay. Each room is individually designed, and there’s free parking on site. A great pick in Cambria.

For your second night, we recommend one of the following:

• If you like to camp, then there are camping options in the national parks along the route here, including the Pfeiffer Big Sur Campground . I’ve camped here and it’s lovely to be surrounded by the massive redwoods. Just be aware that it is popular, and booking in advance is a must.
• Sandpiper Inn , Carmel – we stayed here when we visited Carmel. We enjoyed the comfortable rooms, inclusive breakfast, and proximity to the beach. Free parking is available.
• Sea View Inn , Carmel – a quiet, 3* inn just moments from Carmel Beach. Rooms are individually decorated and free parking is available.
• Coachman’s Inn , Carmel – we’ve stayed at a number of the boutique hotels which are in the Four Sisters Inn collection, and they’ve all been excellent. This inn, found in the heart of Carmel Village, gets good reviews. Rooms include coffee makers and free popcorn, wine with hors d’oeuvres is served in the evenings, and breakfast is included.
• HI Monterey Hostel , Monterey – for budget travellers, or those who just prefer a hostel, this is a very centrally located option just minutes from Cannery Row. There’s free parking on site, and a selection of dormitory rooms to choose from.
• The Inn at 1252 , Monterey – a good value inn on the way into Monterey. Rooms feature coffee makers, and a heated pool is available year round. There’s also a fitness room, free parking and free coffee.
• The Jabberwock B&B , Monterey – just a few blocks from Cannery Row, this very well reviewed B&B offers seven lovely guest rooms, some of which have fireplaces and hot tubs. Free parking, and breakfast is included.

Days 10 & 11 – San Francisco

On your 10th and 11th days you’re going to head to San Francisco, where you will have one full day, and one partial day, depending on what time you arrive.

From Monterey it’s around a 2.5 hour drive along the coast to San Francisco. If you are not in a hurry, there are few sights to take in along the way. First, Monterey itself is home to the fantastic Monterey Bay Aquarium . This is an amazing attraction, but it is quite large and relatively expensive, so you will probably want to spend at least a few hours here to get value for money.

Next, Santa Cruz is well worth a stop. There’s a lovely pier and beach, the surf here is legendary, and there are nearby redwood forests for a nice hike. See our guide to things to do in Santa Cruz for some ideas.

Ok, let’s move on, and assume you’re going to arrive into San Francisco in the early afternoon. There’s a huge amount to see and do in the city, but here are some suggestions to fill your 1.5 days.

Things to do in San Francisco

First, on the afternoon you arrive we can recommend visiting Alcatraz. This island was home to one of the world’s most famous prisons, commonly referred to “The Rock”. For almost thirty years this was home to some of the most notorious criminals in the USA.

Today, Alcatraz is open for tours. These are very popular so you will want to be sure to book in advance as they often sell out. Make sure you only book from the official Alcatraz Cruises website , as these are the only ones that land on the island and let you tour the prison. Other sightseeing tours just take you around the island. For more on visiting Alcatraz, see our guide to visiting Alcatraz .

For your full day in San Francisco, we suggest starting off by taking in a view of one of the cities most iconic landmarks – the Golden Gate Bridge. Joining a bike tour  or hiring a bicycle to cycle out to and over the bridge is a popular option. Although you can get also good views of the bridge from the city, particularly around the Maritime Museum area.

You’ll also want to visit Fisherman’s Wharf. It’s spectacularly tacky, in a way that only seems to work in the USA.

You’ll find no shortage of dining options here – we can recommend the famous Clam Chowder filled sourdough bread bowls at the Boudin Bakery . You can also learn about their bread making process at the free museum, and watch the bakers making bread.

While you are at Fisherman’s Wharf, don’t forget to say hello to the sea lions who pass the time lazing in the sun on floats just by the pier.

Other unmissable highlights of the city include the famous curvy Lombard Street , said to be the most crooked street in the world. You should also try to ride the famous street cars, visit the Chinatown and Union Square area, wander around Golden Gate Park , and peer up at the Transamerica Pyramid.

There’s loads more to do in San Francisco of course, from museums to art exhibits to cultural attractions, but hopefully we’ve given you some ideas to get you started. We have a guide to some great photo spots in San Francisco if you are looking for inspiration.

Where to Stay in San Francisco

San Francisco is another large city with a lot of accommodation options, however in our experience it’s also one of the more expensive cities for accommodation in the USA. Parking is also at a premium, and hotels with free parking are fairly rare.

We’ve stayed at a number of hotels in the city, and here are our recommendation for your time in San Francisco.

• HI San Francisco Fisherman’s Wharf Hotel – found right on Fisherman’s Wharf, this budget hostel offers both dormitory and private accommodation options. There’s free breakfast and free parking, making this an excellent option for the location.
• Marines’ Memorial Club & Hotel – found in the popular Union Square district, this great value 3-star hotel has a rooftop restaurant, library, and on-site theatre. Rooms have private bathrooms and coffee makers, and breakfast is included. A paid parking garage is available nearby.
• Parker Guest House – found in the old Mission district just behind the San Francisco mission building, this is a well reviewed and good value guesthouse offering private rooms. Free breakfast is available, and parking is available on site for a reasonable (by San Francisco standards) fee.
• Columbus Inn – Just a few hundred yards from Lombardy Street and Fisherman’s Wharf in the North Beach district,  this 3* inn offers great value for the location. Private rooms offer en-suite and tea/coffee making facilities. There’s also free parking on site.
• Golden Gate Hotel – a very well reviewed 3* hotel just minutes from Union Square. Continental breakfast and afternoon tea are included. Rooms are definitely on the cosy side, and some have shared bathrooms, but the price is great for the location. Paid parking available nearby.
• Staypineapple Union Square – we stayed at this restored historic 4* 1913 hotel on a recent trip to San Francisco, and loved the mix of the old and the new. We loved the rooms, the colorful pineapple theme, and the free pineapple flavoured cupcakes certainly helped! Parking is available nearby for a fee.
• Four Seasons Hotel – if you are after five star luxury, then consider the Four Seasons hotel. Also found in Union Square, rooms are huge, there’s an on-site restaurant, fitness centre, and many rooms have city views.

Days 12 & 13 – Yosemite National Park

You’re into the final few days of your US road trip now, and it’s time to visit some more of the spectacular scenery that the state is so well known for.

The plan is to spend your next couple of days visiting Yosemite National Park , which is home to some gorgeous natural scenery, including epic waterfalls and towering mountains.

From San Francisco it’s around a four hour drive to Yosemite. We’d suggest planning to arrive in the early afternoon, checking into your accommodation where you’ll stay for two nights, and then going sightseeing.

With a full afternoon on day 12, and all of day 13 to visit the park, you should be able to visit many of the highlights. On the afternoon you arrive, we would suggest visiting some of the highlights near the Yosemite Valley Visitor Centre to start with, including Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Falls.

A visit to the visitor centre itself is also recommended, as here you’ll be able to get up to date information on the park, as well as talk to the rangers about suggested walking routes.

For your full day in the park, you have a few options. First, you might want to take advantage of the free Yosemite shuttle , and visit the highlights that it goes to.

I would also consider a drive up to Tunnel View and then on to Glacier Point, where you’ll be able to get amazing views across the park. These can also be done as part of a tour offered by the park if you’d rather not drive.You then might consider a shorter afternoon hike, such as that up to Vernal Falls.

Alternatively, if you love hiking, you might consider tackling one of the longer or more strenuous day hikes. There are plenty of these, such as the Yosemite Falls hike .

Just note that some hikes, like the popular Half Dome Hike , do require an advance purchase permit. These are distributed via a lottery system as they are so popular so are difficult to obtain. If you plan to explore the backcountry areas of the park, you will also need a permit.

For more inspiration for your visit to Yosemite, see our guides to what to do in Yosemite for a day , as well as our guide to photography locations in Yosemite .

Important –  As of 2022, Yosemite has introduced a reservation system for park entry. If you are visiting between late May and the end of September and planning on driving into or through the park between 6am and 4pm you will need to have a reservation. You can find out more and make your reservations online here .

Where to Stay in Yosemite National Park

There are a range of accommodation options in Yosemite National Park, ranging from campsites to canvas-sided tent cabins, through to luxury hotels.

There are 13 campsites available in the park , with a number of these available for reservation, and the rest operated on a first come first serve basis. If you want to camp, we highly recommend booking well in advance, which you can do here .

There are also nine lodging options operated by Yosemite Hospitality inside the park, which are the only other accommodation options available in the park itself. These can be reserved up to a year in advance, and range from simple canvas cabins through to a high-end luxury hotel. These can all be reserved online in advance here .

We would definitely recommend staying in the park if possible, as this will put you close to the sights. However, if you struggle to find an option that works for you, some recommended lodging just outside the park is as follows. As a general rule, the closer to the park, the more expensive the property is likely to be.

• Yosemite Bug Rustic Mountain Resort – At just over 26 miles outside Yosemite, this property is quite far out compared to others, but the price reflects that. So if you are on a tighter budget this is a good option to consider. Think glamping and rustic style accommodation, with an on-site spa, restaurant, and kitchen for use. Dormitory accommodation is also available.
• Narrow Gauge Inn – found just four miles from Yosemite, this is a great value 3* motel offering comfortable en-suite rooms. All rooms feature coffe machines, and there’s a seasonal restaurant, a seasonal outdoor pool and a hot tub
• Yosemite View Lodge – Just under nine miles from Yosemite National Park, this 3* lodge has 4 pools, a hot tub and a restaurant. It has lovely views, gets positive reviews, and there’s free parking on-site. Breakfast is available.
• Tenaya Lodge at Yosemite – this 4* lodge is found just two miles from Yosemite National Park, and offers comfortable and well-reviewed lodging. There’s a on-site fitness centre and spa as well as two pools. Free parking is available, and breakfast is an option.

Day 14 – Death Valley & Las Vegas

It’s the final day of your road trip! Today you have a fair old drive ahead of you – around 6 hours in total. However, we’re going to break it up a bit with some sights.

Before we begin, it’s worth mentioning that this route has you exiting Yosemite on the east side of the park, which requires you to take Highway 120, also known as the Tioga Road. Due to its elevation and exposure to snow, this road is closed over winter, usually from November to late May. You can see the latest road conditions here .

If this road is closed, then you are looking at a significant detour to get to Death Valley, requiring you to exit the park to the south or west, and then to loop a long way south via Bakersfield to get around the Sierra Nevada Mountains. As such, you may prefer instead to skip Death Valley, or to visit it earlier in your trip as a day trip from Las Vegas (it’s a 4 hour round trip). In this case, instead of driving all the way back to Las Vegas, you might prefer just to return to San Francisco.

Assuming you visit when the Tioga Road is open though, you will leave Yosemite and come to California’s Highway 395, often referred to as California’s backbone. We suggest taking a left onto the 395, and driving to the Mono Lake Tufa State Natural Reserve, a couple of miles up the road.

Mono Lake is a saline soda lake is home to many limestone columns, known as tufa towers, which are a popular visitor attraction. Definitely worth a photo stop.

You’ll now head south on Highway 395, driving parallel to the incredible Sierra Nevada mountain range. You’ll pass through lovely towns like Mammoth Lakes, and the views will definitely require you to stop for a few photos as you drive.

We suggest following Highway 395 until Lone Pine, and then heading on Highway 136 into the last National Park of the trip – the infamous Death Valley National Park .

This is home to over 3 million acres of desert and mountains, and was named during the California Gold Rush. During this time, a group of 100 wagons became lost in the valley, and though they eventually found their way out, it was only after they gave up their wagons and ate their oxen.

Today, Death Valley is a popular place for visitors to experience an extreme desert environment. There’s plenty to see and do here as you pass through. We’d suggest stopping at the visitor centre and visiting Badwater Basin, which is the lowest point in the USA, at 279 feet below sea level.

One thing to note – if you visit California in the summer months, particularly late June to early September, it can be incredibly hot in Death Valley. Hiking is not recommended in these months due to the temperature, and you’ll want to be sure the A/C in your car is working well!

Finally, you’re going to arrive back in Las Vegas, complete the circuit, and finish your US road trip. We hope you had a great time! Now you can either fly home, or spend some more time in Vegas. Now, onto some practicalities for your trip.

2 Week USA Road Trip Itinerary Map

Here’s a map of the route to help you visualise it. You can also see this on Google Maps here .

When Is The Best Time of Year to Road Trip the USA?

We would suggest that for this itinerary, the best time of year would be May through June, or September and October. At these times of year the weather will be warm but not too hot (although Las Vegas will definitely be hot in late May and June), and it won’t be as busy as the summer months.

You could also do this trip in winter of course, but it will be a lot cooler. In addition, some of the national parks, and especially Yosemite, can have restricted access in winter if there is a lot of snow. In particular, the east exit from Yosemite, the Tioga road, is usually closed from November through May. In this scenario you would be looking at a lengthy detour to travel to Death Valley, and might instead prefer to return to San Francisco.

If you choose to visit in the hotter summer months, such as July and August, then you’d definitely want to avoid any sort of longer hikes in places like the Valley of Fire and Death Valley. Instead, maybe plan more time along the coast, at higher altitudes, and exploring city attractions.

Western USA Tour Options

This is a road trip itinerary, and as such there’s quite a lot of driving involved. However, I appreciate not everyone will want to drive. The good news is that there are a number of tours which follow a fairly similar route to our itinerary. The advantage of a tour is that you can let someone else handle all the logistics, from booking hotels to handling the transport, and you can just relax and enjoy the experience.

Here are some tours which follow a fairly similar route to our itinerary for your consideration.

• This 11 day budget tour includes the Pacific Coast Highway, as well as Los Angeles, San Diego, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley and Yosemite. A good value option, aimed at the budget travellers wanting to see a lot in a fairly short amount of time
• If you’re on a tighter timescale, consider this 8 day express tour with G Adventures. It goes from LA to San Francisco, calling at Joshua Tree, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley and Yosemite. You don’t get to see San Diego or the Pacific Coast Highway, but otherwise you will cover a lot and see plenty!
• If you would prefer to see more national parks, consider this 15 day G Adventures tour in partnership with National Geographic. As well as most of the national parks on our list, you will also visit such spectacular locations as Bryce Canyon and Zion. One for those of you who prefer nature to cities.
• This 11 day tour from Las Vegas to San Francisco includes Death Valley, Yosemite the Grand Canyon, Zion, Arches, Canyonlands and Bryce National Parks, as well as Monument Valley and time in San Francisco.

Practicalities for Planning a USA Road Trip

If you are visiting from outside the USA, we wanted to share some tips that should help make planning and preparing for you US road trip a little easier.

Driving in the USA

In the USA , you drive on the right hand side of the road, and the majority of vehicles are automatic. Compared to Europe, fuel prices are low.

If you’re coming from overseas, you’ll likely be renting a car. To do so, you will need a valid drivers license, and many rental car companies also have a minimum age for renters, which can start as high as 25. Some visitors may also need an International Drivers Permit from to drive in the USA, which needs to be arranged in advance from your home country.

We have a complete guide to driving in the USA , which you might want to read if this is your first time driving in the United States.

Renting a Car or Motorhome for your Trip

If you are coming from overseas, then you’ll need a vehicle in which to do this road trip. You have two main options – you can rent a car, or you can rent an RV/motorhome.

For this itinerary specifically we’d generally recommend a car as there are quite a few city stops which wouldn’t be practical for a motorhome. However, if you decide to skip the cities and focus on the great outdoors, then a motorhome might be more practical.

For car rental in the US, we usually use either Discover Cars or Enterprise . For one-way trips, we’ve found Enterprise often has the lowest one-way fees, but it is always worth comparing on a site like Discover Cars.

For RV rental, we recommend checking out Motorhome Republic . They compare prices across all the major suppliers so you can find the right rental for you. You can see their USA listings here .

We can also recommend checking out  RVShare , who offer peer to peer campervan rental – a bit like the AirBnB of RV rental! Similar options include Outdoorsy and RVEzy .

Money in the USA

The USA uses the US dollar, with notes available in denominations ranging from 1 up to 100. Coins are also widely used, which range from a cent to a dollar. There are ATM machines available throughout the country.

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, however it is worth keeping some bills to hand for tipping. In addition, the 25 cent coin, known as a quarter, is widely used for short stay parking meters, so you will want to have some of these handy as well.

If you’ve not visited the USA before, and in particular if you are from a country where tipping is not normal, you might find the tipping culture a bit of a shock. Tips are expected for a great many service based roles, from restaurant service through to valet parking.

The percentage you tip will obviously depend on your personal preference, but tips in the region of 10 – 20% for restaurant service is common, whilst one to three dollars for bar service or valet parking is also expected.

Electricity in the USA

The USA uses a 110v electrical system. If you are coming from a country that uses a 220v to 240v system, this means that some of your electrical items might not work.

In our experience, the majority of smaller electronics, like laptops and cell phone chargers, are compatible with 110v – 240v and will work in the USA. You can check on the charger, it should tell you.

However, higher powered devices like hair dryers, flat irons, and electric kettles are unlikely to work, unless you have a dual voltage model specifically designed for international travel or have a voltage converter.

In addition, if you are visiting from outside the USA, you will likely need a travel adaptor like this . See our comprehensive guide to travel adaptors for recommendations.

Accommodation in the USA

There is a huge range of accommodation options in the USA across a wide range of budgets. From budget motels near highway intersections to five star luxury hotels, to campsites and apartment rentals – we’re sure you’ll find something to suit.

For this itinerary we’ve suggested a few options for each stopping point, across a range of budgets. As this is a road trip, we can recommend trying to find places which include free parking where possible, although in the major cities you are likely going to have to pay for a parking service.

In terms of whether or not you need to book in advance, we’d suggest that this is a good idea for the most part to ensure you get your choice of accommodation. This is definitely the case in and around popular national parks like Yosemite and the Grand Canyon, where even campsites can book out months in advance.

We generally use booking.com for our travel booking needs, they have a huge range of options, and most properties offer free cancellation in case your plans change.

Safety in the USA

For the most part, the USA is a safe destination to travel in, and we have never had any problems travelling here.

Violent crime against tourists is quite unusual, and the most common types of crime are opportunistic ones like pickpocketing, theft, and auto break-ins.

Of course, every country has crime, and areas where you would be wiser to avoid, however if you practice basic safety precautions, keep your valuables out of sight, and behave with some caution, you should be fine!

Internet Access in the USA

Internet access is widely available across the USA in the form of WiFi, which can be found for free at most hotels, cafes, bars and restaurants. There are also a number of free WiFi hotspots in some of the cities on our list.

If your phone is unlocked you can pick up a pay as you go SIM in the USA. One of the better options is from  Straight Talk , which you can buy in Walmart stores.

For more options on getting online when travelling, check out our  guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options.

Water across the USA is safe to drink, unless otherwise indicated. There are drinking fountains in the majority of public locations, and we recommend you travel with a  re-usable water bottle  so you can just fill it up as you go.

One thing we always love about travelling in the USA is how drinking water is typically brought to your table at a restaurant – something we wish was standard around the world!

Further Reading

That’s it for our two week USA road trip itinerary, which features some of our favourite destinations in this part of the USA. Before you head off though, I just wanted to share some more resources we’ve put together to help you plan your trip.

• We have a two week California road trip itinerary , in case you wanted to cover a little less ground on your trip
• I’ve written a guide featuring some of my  top tips for driving in the USA  to help get you going on the road!
• We have a guide to things to do in Las Vegas to give you some ideas for your time in the city, as well as a guied to things to do in San Diego
• Wondering how much a California road trip will cost? Check out our  guide to how much it costs to travel in the USA  to help you plan your trip budget.
• Jess has a guide to  driving the Pacific Coast Highway , which will give you lots of ideas for that section of the road
• If you’re interested in California’s wine country, see our  guide to visiting Napa Valley
• Route 66 ends in California, so take a look at our  guide to planning a route 66 trip , as well as our detailed  2 week Route 66 itinerary  and  1 week Route 66 itinerary
• Fodor’s  Guide to California , which also includes details on a number of fantastic road trips
• The  Lonely Planet California Guide , which is great for finding things to do, places to eat and places to stay
• A  US road atlas , because sometimes you don’t want to rely on GPS!
• If you’re planning on hiring an RV or camping, this  guide to free and super cheap campgrounds  will quickly pay for itself
• The official  Visit California  page, which will give you more advice on what to see and when to visit
• My guide to  things to do in Redding California , if you decide to head to northern California
• Getting online when travelling in a foreign country can be daunting – check out our  guide to getting online when travelling  to help you figure out the best options for your trip
• And if you’re looking for inspiration for the rest of the USA, check out our  USA section , which includes a  Deep south itinerary , tips for  New Orleans during Mardi Gras  – and lots more!

We hope you found this itinerary useful for your trip planning. As always, we’re happy to answer any questions you might have, just pop them in the comments below and we’ll get back to you as soon as we can.

Enjoyed this post? Why not share it!

There are 13 comments on this post

Please scroll to the end to leave a comment

akhilash says

13th March 2024 at 8:17 pm

I think this itinerary is a great starting point for planning your own 2-week road trip through the southwestern and western United States. With a little bit of planning and customization, you can create a trip that is perfect for you.

Laurence Norah says

19th March 2024 at 4:15 pm

Thanks very much Akhilash, have a great trip through the USA 🙂

Joanna Madej says

10th May 2023 at 7:41 pm

I am a mum from Poland planning a trip this August with 3 kids (16,13 and 10- just girls) starting/ending from LA for appr 3 weeks. I really like your plan and if there was a digital version I could paly with it would be great!

do you have any tips not to rush and also find time to spend in the beach?

11th May 2023 at 3:35 pm

So you can get a printable version of the post from the print button on the bottom of the page. Then you can edit it to suit you own needs 🙂 If you’d rather not rush then my recommendation is to have fewer stops and spend longer in each stop. For beaches, along the coast around Los Angeles will be your best bet, there are a lot of beaches in that area!

Have an amazing time and let me know if I can offer any more advice!

19th April 2023 at 9:07 am

Thank you for writing this itinerary. We are coming from Australia and will be spending close to 3 weeks following this itinerary give and take. We are planning to arrive on mid-Jan 2024. Do you know whether some parks will be closed during that time ?

19th April 2023 at 10:14 am

It’s my pleasure. So the main park that will likely pose difficulties in January is going to be Yosemite. It can occasionally close in Winter if there is a lot of snow which can block access road. Additionally, the road that links the east side of the valley to the road to Death Valley is normally closed in winter so you would have to backtrack and drive around. The other stretch of road to always check before setting out is the Pacific Coast Highway around Big Sur especially, as this can be affected by landslips.

Other than that I think you would be fine! Have a great trip and let me know if you have any more questions.

Norine says

3rd March 2022 at 1:51 pm

Hi Laurence and Jessica!

Thank you for such a detailed itinerary! Most of the places you’ve listed are exactly where I’d like to visit during my trip in end May’22 – early Jun’22 (Total of 15 full days). But instead of Las Vegas, I’ll be flying to San Francisco and starting from there instead. Was thinking of doing this circular road trip in the other direction, meaning from SF > Pacific Coast > LA > LV > Grand Canyon > LV > Death Valley > Yosemite > SF. I’m pushing Yosemite to the end, hoping that Tioga pass will be open by early Jun.

Would you recommend this itinerary? Or do you have any other tips/suggestions?

Thanks a lot in advance! 🙂

4th March 2022 at 10:13 am

It’s our pleasure! Sounds like you have a great trip planned. Your trip is definitely do-able and it sounds like a good itinerary to me! The main thing is of course whether or not Tioga pass will be open. It should be open by early June but that’s not guaranteed. Other than that, it sounds like an awesome road trip! Let me know how it goes and do let me know if you have any specific questions we can help with 🙂

23rd March 2022 at 4:25 pm

I just wanted to quickly add to this that this year Yosemite are requiring visitors to make a reservation for park entry. The system is going online today. You can find out more and reserve online here:

https://www.nps.gov/yose/planyourvisit/reservations.htm

I’ve updated the post but as you indicated you were visiting this year I wanted to be sure you were aware of this new requirement so you don’t miss out!

Have a great trip,

Janice says

8th February 2022 at 1:49 pm

I want to thank both of you for this awesome road trip circuit. I have a question, I would love to go to Sequoia National & Kings Canyon after Yosemite. Would you recommend that? Which route will be the best from Yosemite and how many extra days that will add to my trip? After that, I will go to Death Valley and then back to Vegas. Any suggestions?

10th February 2022 at 12:27 pm

Glad you found this guide useful! So you can definitely do this trip and add in Sequoia National Park and Kings Canyon to your trip. From Yosemite it’s around a 3 hour drive down, and then it’s another 5-6 hours after that on to Death Valley. How long you want to spend here will definitely depend on you, but personally I’d allocate at least two full days in the parks and a day for the driving, so three extra days onto the trip as a minimum. But there is always more to see and do!

I hope this was helpful, let me know if I can offer any more advice 🙂

Have a great trip!

7th May 2020 at 6:10 pm

Your pictures are always great, but the the one of the Grand Canyon with the sunlight streaming is spectacular!

7th May 2020 at 6:19 pm

Thanks so much Toni! That was quite a morning – I got up at 4am for the sunrise, which seemed like it was going to be a total washout. I persevered though, and it was all worth it. Truly a spectacular experience 😀

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Let me know when there's a reply to my comment (just replies to your comment, no other e-mails, we promise!)

Subscribe to our monthly Newsletter where we share our latest travel news and tips. This also makes you eligible to enter our monthly giveaways!

We only ask for your e-mail so we can verify you are human and if requested notify you of a reply. To do this, we store your data as outlined in our privacy policy . Your e-mail will not be published or used for any other reason other than those outlined above.

• Tours  > 
• Destinations  > 
• North America Tours  > 
• United States Tours  > 
• U.S. National Parks Tours

Click to send a new magic link to your inbox.

Welcome back!

By signing in, you agree to our Privacy Policy  and  Terms of Use

• Bookmark trips you like
• Share with your travel companions
• Track price changes
• Access private discounts on trips you save

TripFinder is a member-only feature. Don’t worry, it’s free!

With a membership you:

• Save up to $700 per person!*
• Access private deals and offers
• See personalized trip recommendations
• Save favorite trips

Just use the email address and password provided in the email we sent.

With your free membership you:

Your travel guide dog

Searching thousands of trips by hundreds of tour companies...

Fetching your trip.

Just a moment, Rover is fetching your perfect trip.

2 weeks road trip in USA West Coast: the ultimate itinerary

Usa west coast itinerary 2 weeks: the perfect 14-15 days road trip.

You’re planning to spend 2 weeks in the American West  for your next trip?

Excellent idea!

In order to help you plan your trip, I have prepared for you a 2 weeks road trip itinerary in USA West Coast . During your trip, you will discover all the best places to visit on this part of the United States!

In this travel guide, in addition to the must-see attractions, I will also give you all my best tips as well as my list of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do during your 14-15 day trip to USA West Coast?

Let’s discover Los Angeles , Las Vegas , the Grand Canyon, Death Valley, Yosemite, San Francisco and a lot more!

Renting a car for your 2 weeks road trip in the USA (West Coast)

Where to stay in los angeles, where to stay in las vegas, where to stay around the grand canyon, day 5 – grand canyon, where to stay in monument valley, where to stay around lake powell, where to stay in bryce canyon, where to stay in zion national park, where to stay around death valley, where to stay in mammoth lakes, where to stay in the yosemite, where to stay in san francisco, day 14 – san francisco, day 15 – san francisco, 14 or 16 days west coast itinerary, get your esta (electronic system for travel authorization), travel insurance, driving in the us, map of your 2 weeks itinerary in usa west coast, you’re traveling in the us these articles will help you.

To visit the west coast of the United States for 2 weeks, you’ll need a car. Don’t even think about doing this road trip by public transport, it’s impossible!

To rent a car , you should use Rentalcars.com website.

It’s the one I use for all my trips, as it’s super convenient: it allows you to compare all the rental companies’ rates in just one click and to book your car rental at the best price!

And if you don’t have an insurance with your credit card, you can opt for the  “Full Protection Insurance” , to be fully refunded in case of accident or theft.  Tested and approved! (They refunded me more than 1200€ to date!)

For this itinerary, you will need to rent a car in Los Angeles and return it in San Francisco.

If you already know your travel dates to the American West, symply click on the button below to compare prices and rent your car: 

To rent a car in the United States, you need to:

• Be over 21 years old
• Have a valid license from your country of residence (you must have your driver’s license for at least 12 months)
• Have an international license: it’s not mandatory but more and more rental companies require it, so it’s better to have it (especially if your driver’s licence is not in English)
• Provide a credit card in the name of the main driver
• Present your passport.

Day 1 and day 2 – Los Angeles

So, pick-up your car in Los Angeles’ airport and let’s start your 2 weeks road trip across the USA West Coast  by visiting LA!

Begin your journey with the iconic Hollywood Sign .

Located atop Mount Lee, this global emblem of the entertainment industry offers an excellent photo-op, especially if you go to Lake Hollywood Park’s viewpoint .

But don’t just stop at the bottom!

There are various hiking trails leading up to the sign that offer panoramic views of the city .

You can also opt for a walk with a guide, who will help you take superb photos. Click here for information and to book!

Your next stop should be the Griffith Observatory .

Not only does it offer breathtaking views of the city and the Hollywood sign, but the observatory itself is a very interesting visit if you’re interested in everything space related.

And if you’re traveling with kids, it’s a great educational spot and the entrance is free!

Then, head down to the Walk of Fame .

Stretching for more than a mile on Hollywood Boulevard, this famed sidewalk is home to over 2,600 brass stars embedded in the sidewalks. You can spot your favorite celebrities’ stars and take a picture of them.

And you know what? You can even have your own star with your name on it! It will be a great souvenir of your 2-week USA West Coast road trip itinerary.

You need to book the “Get your own Star” activity in advance by clicking here.

During your first day in Los Angeles, you should also take a drive through Sunset Boulevard. This legendary boulevard boasts historic landmarks and is soaked in Hollywood history.

For some upscale sights, drive to Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills . Even if high-end shopping isn’t on your agenda, the luxurious ambiance and the chance of a celebrity sighting make it worth a visit.

If celebrity spotting is high on your list, you should opt for a guide tour of celebrities homes in Beverly Hills.

Simply click on the green button below for more info and to book:

In the afternoon, make your way to Santa Monica Pier and Pacific Park . The cool ocean breeze, the sunset, and the bustling activities make it the perfect spot to relax at the end of the day.

You can enjoy the rides, try local delicacies, or simply spend some time on the beach.

To conlude the first day of your USA West Coast trip itinerary, with a visit to Venice Beach . Known for its bohemian spirit, Muscle Beach, and vibrant boardwalk, it’s a lively place to people-watch.

There are also a lot of shops and restaurants.

Spend your first night in Los Angeles.

If you don’t want to bother with transport, I recommend booking this guided bus tour , which includes all the stops of my itinerary . It’s super convenient!

Click here to book your full-day guided tour of LA!

For the 2nd day of  your 14, 15 or 16 days USA West Coast itinerary, you should spend the day at Universal Studios Hollywood. 

This theme park is one of the oldest and most famous Hollywood studios in use.

Given the popularity of Universal Studios, you really need to book your skip the line ticket in advance . This way, you can make the most of your time at the park without spending hours in queues.

You need to book your ticket by clicking on the green button below. You can choose between the “Normal” or “Express” (the best choice if you want to do as many rides as possible!) ticket upon booking.

Inside the park, you’ll find a combination of thrilling rides, shows, and real working movie studios.

Some must-visit attractions include the Wizarding World of Harry Potter , Despicable Me Minion Mayhem , and the Studio Tour that offers a behind-the-scenes look at famous movie sets. And let’s not forget the all-new open world: Super Nintendo World!

This is really a must-visit during your west coast road trip, but if you’re not a fan of theme parks , you can also continue your visit to the city.

For more information about Los Angeles , you should read my detailed article: The best things to do in LA .

Spend another night in Los Angeles.

As you probably know, hotels are quite expensive in Los Angeles, and the hotels offering the best value for money are fully booked very quickly.

To get the best rate, you should really book your accommodation in L.A as soon as you have your travel dates!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Los Angeles:

• HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel: Located 200 meters from Santa Monica beach. Dormitory beds from €50. Strong points: cleanliness, location next to the ocean. The perfect hostel if you’re looking for a cheap accommodation in Los Angeles.
• El Royale Hotel – Near Universal Studios Hollywood: Located close to Universal Studios, comfortable and spacious double room from €190, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, free parking, comfortable beds.
• Park Plaza Lodge: Located close to LACMA and Farmers market. Modern and comfortable double room from €190. Benefits: swimming pool, parking, convenient location for sightseeing.
• citizenM Los Angeles Downtown: Located in Downtown Los Angeles, 400 metres from City Hall. Brightly decorated contemporary double room with large window overlooking the city, from €260, breakfast €19. Strong points: design, friendly staff, panoramic view of LA.
• Loews Hollywood Hotel: Located next to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Beautiful double rooms, some with views of the Hollywood sign, from €255, breakfast €33. Strong points: heated swimming pool, geographical location, direct access to the shopping centre with lots of restaurants and a casino. My favorite hotel in LA for its excellent value for money!
• Pendry West Hollywood: This 5-star hotel on Sunset Boulevard offers sublime, elegantly decorated rooms with large picture windows. From €620 per night, breakfast €56. Strong points: the rooftop pool, the view over Los Angeles, the design of the hotel.
• Shutters On The Beach: Magnificent 5-star hotel located directly on Santa Monica beach. Rooms with balcony and some with ocean views from €880, breakfast €46. Strong points: the view, the good restaurant, the style of the hotel, the swimming pool, the attentive staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Los Angeles!

Day 3 – Las Vegas

Next stop on your 2-week USA West Coast trip itinerary is Las Vegas , nestled in the heart of the Nevada desert.

It takes just over 4 hours to drive from Los Angeles to Las Vegas.

I will give a typical itinerary for one day in Las Vegas, but don’t worry if you can’t do everything on day 3, you will have a bit more time to visit the city on the next morning. 

Let’s start with a quick visit to the iconic Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign . Snap a picture here; it’s a rite of passage for any Las Vegas visitor and a fitting start to your day in Sin City.

Then, get your adrenaline pumping next at New York – New York with the Big Apple Roller coaster . The twists, turns, and loops, combined with the fantastic views of the Vegas Strip, make this a must-do activity for thrill-seekers.

Your next stop should be the MGM Grand . Known for its casino and top-notch restaurants , you can easily spend a few hours exploring this huge iconic hotel.

A little bit further, don’t miss the Bellagio Hotel and its world-renowned fountain show . This water performance, set to light and music, is a visual treat and a hallmark of Las Vegas luxury.

Continue your journey down the strip to the Eiffel Tower at Paris Las Vegas. While it’s only half the size of the real thing, the views from the top are spectacular, offering a panoramic view over the bustling strip below.

It’s now time to go to the grand Caesars Palace. With high-end shops, top-tier entertainment, and bustling casinos , it encapsulates the essence of Las Vegas luxury.

Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth walking through to admire its grand interior!

For an adrenaline rush, you can also try the Fly Linq Zipline Las Vegas (book it here!) .

Next, head to the Venetian , which features many architectural details directly inspired by the Italian city of Venice. You’ll even find canals and gondolas!

To end you day in style, you can head to Downtown Las Vegas and the Freemont Street Experience . This five-block entertainment district offers free nightly shows and live concerts, encapsulating the spirit of old-school Vegas.

Spend the night in Las Vegas in one of the hotels I selected for you.

For more details on the places you shouldn’t miss in Las Vegas, you should read my dedicated article here: The 30 best things to do in Las Vegas.

When the sun sets, Las Vegas truly comes alive. Here are some nighttime activities you should consider:

• Ascend the STRAT observation platform (book your tickets here!) at sunset for breathtaking views of the city.
• Experience the city’s from the Ferris wheel (click here to book!) .
• Attend a show! Whether it’s a magic act , a comedy show , or a grand performance like Cirque du Soleil , Las Vegas’s offers some of the best shows in the world.
• Embark on an helicopter tour to fly over the iconic Las Vegas strip!

There are a lot of hotels in Las Vegas, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you  the best hotels in Las Vegas depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should  book your hotel as early as possible*!

*And a little clarification: in Las Vegas prices can explode for weekends or if there is a special event during a the day of the week. For example, you can have a night at Caesars Palace for €140 and the next day it will be €1,600.

Please note that prices “start from”, they can vary greatly (and I’ve got nothing to do with that 😅).

In any case, I can always help you find a hotel within your budget if you ask me in the comments.

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay at on the Strip:

• Excalibur: With its castle-themed structure, it’s a hit among families and offers affordable rates starting at 70€ per night. Strong points: comfortable beds, size of rooms, price. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation on the Las Vegas Strip!
• Luxor: Have you ever dreamt of sleeping in a pyramid? Well, in Las Vegas you can! Double room from €80. Strong points: helpful staff, big bedroom, connected to Excalibur and Mandalay hotels.
• Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino: This famous 5-star hotel on the Strip offers rooms from €140. Strong points: its architecture, beautiful pools, nice and clean rooms.
• Treasure Island Hotel & Casino: Double room from 170€. Plus points: spacious room, fridge in the room, great location on the strip, self check-in so you don’t have to wait, self parking.
• Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino: Hotel located opposite the Eiffel Tower. Double room from 225€. Strong points: good restaurants, room and hotel decor, very comfortable.
• Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World : Double room from 290€. Strong points: room and facilities are new, great pool area, super comfy bed, super clean. This is my recommendation for a top-of-the-range stay in Las Vegas!
• Bellagio: I can’t forget to mention the Bellagio in my selection of the most beautiful hotels in Las Vegas! The hotel offers sumptuous rooms from €480. Strong points: very luxurious, perfect location for exploring the Strip, fountain view. This is my recommendation for a deluxe stay in Las Vegas!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Downtown Las Vegas / Fremont Street:

• The D Las Vegas: Double room from 75€. Strong points: the price, friendly staff, clean, free parking.
• Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino: Nice and clean double room from 85€. Strong points: pool terrace, comfortable bed, great location, big room.
• Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino Las Vegas: Double room from 110€. Strong points: free parking, huge room.
• Circa Resort & Casino – Adults only: Double room from 180€. Strong points: rooftop bar, swimming pool area, new and modern.

Day 4 – From Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon – Route 66

On Day 4 of your 2-week USA West Coast itinerary , let’s go for a scenic drive from Vegas to  the Grand Canyon.

But first, if there were attractions in Las Vegas you didn’t manage to squeeze into Day 3, now is your chance. Whether it’s another round at the casinos or more shopping , take the morning to enjoy Vegas a bit more.

By midday , get ready for the road ahead. It will take you about 4.5 hour to drive from Las Vegas to the Grand Canyon.

Here are the iconic places you shouldn’t miss along the way:

1. Hoover Dam: Just about 40 minutes from Las Vegas, this engineering marvel stands tall on the Colorado River. It’s worth making a quick stop to snap a few pictures!

2. Historic Route 66: During your 2 weeks road trip on the west coast , take the opporunity to drive a stretch of the iconic Route 66. This historic highway, also known as the Main Street of America , offers a slice of classic America with its vintage shops, old-school diners, and picturesque landscapes.

3. Seligman: This picturesque town on Route 66 is a throwback to simpler times. With its charming retro vibe, diners, and vintage cars, it’s a delightful place for a short break.

As you approach the Grand Canyon, you can see vast desert vistas, red rock formations, and eventually, the first glimpses of the Grand Canyon’s majestic rim.

On arrival, check into your accommodation , rest a bit, and prepare for a full day of exploration tomorrow.

The Grand Canyon’s vastness and beauty deserve an entire day of your USA West Coast 2-week itinerary.

You have 3 different options for sleeping near the Grand Canyon:

• Grand Canyon Village, right on the edge of the Canyon
• The town of Tusayan , 15 minutes from the Grand Canyon
• The town of Williams , an hour from the Grand Canyon

At the Grand Canyon Village, you could sleep at:

• Yavapai Lodge: Double room from €265. Strong points: free parking, the setting, close to the shops.
• Maswick Lodge: Double room from 320€. Strong points: free parking, very big bedroom, close to the best sites and shuttles.

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Tusayan:

• Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection : Double room from 250€. Strong points: indoor and outdoor swimming pool, arcade, friendly staff, perfect location.
• Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel : Double room from 260€. Strong points: free parking, very clean, swimming pool, proximity to the Grand Canyon.
• The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon: Double room from 290€. Strong points: the friendliness of the staff, the decoration of the hotel, very comfortable, the peace and quiet.
• Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon, an IHG Hotel : Double room from 300€. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, close to restaurants, clean, spacious.

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Williams:

• Travelodge by Wyndham Williams Grand Canyon : Double room from 80€, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, free parking, close to shops, fridge and coffee maker in room.
• Ramada by Wyndham Williams/Grand Canyon Area : Double room from 100€. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, clean.
• Comfort Inn near Grand Canyon: Double room from 130€, breakfast included. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, comfort of beds, size of rooms, good breakfast. This is my favorite hotel for its excellent value for money!
• Quality Inn Near Grand Canyon : Double room from 135€, breakfast included. Strong points: spacious, clean and comfortable room.
• La Quinta by Wyndham Williams-Grand Canyon Area : Double room from 175€, breakfast included. Strong points: new, modern hotel, lovely pool, free parking.

For the 5th day of your west coast road trip in 2 weeks , you will have the chance to see the Grand Canyon , one of the most famous landscape in the world, carved over millions of years by the Colorado River.

On this day, you’ll explore South Rim, the most accessible and popular part of the Grand Canyon where you’ll find numerous viewpoints, each offering a different perspective of the canyon.

Here’s a quick list of the best activity to do:

• Take the shuttle which runs alongside Hermit Road and stop at the different viewpoints: Mather Point / Trail View Overlook / Powell Point / Hopi Point / Mohave Point / Pima Point.
• Desert View Drive: A scenic route with various viewpoints, including Grandview Point and the Desert View Watchtower , offering panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River. You will need to take your car for this road as there is no shuttle service.
• Bright Angel Trail: For those looking to hike, this is one of the most popular trails, leading you down into the heart of the canyon. But this is a very difficult hike with a steep gradient, which has to be descended and then climbed! As the signs along the trail say “Down is optional / Up is mandatory”.  Allow between 9 and 12 hours for the hike.
• Yavapai Point and Museum: Offers one of the best panoramic views of the canyon’s depth and breadth.
• Go on an guided Hummer tour at sunset and stop at the best viewpoints. Book it here!

As the sun begins to set, take a moment to sit by the canyon’s edge, soak in its beauty, and bring back a few beautiful pictures home!

And of course, if you want to take in the most splendid views , there’s one activity you absolutely must do: a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon! 

From the sky, the Grand Canyon is particularly impressive. It will for sure remain one of the best memories of your 2 week trip to the American West!

You need to book your helicopter flight by clicking on the button below:

If there is no more availability , you can also book with this other company (click here!) , it’s exactly the same thing.

Spend another night near the Grand Canyon.

There’s an entrance fee for all the national park in USA, which is approximately $30 / 35$ per park.

To save money, I’d recommend buying the “America the Beautiful Pass” , which costs $80 and gives you unlimited access to all the US national parks for 1 year. As long as you visit 3 parks during your stay, you’ll get your money’s worth!

The pass is valid for all occupants of the same vehicle.

You can buy the pass at the ticket booths at the park entrances or at the Visitor Center. 

Day 6 – Monument Valley

Moving forward in your 2 weeks in USA West Coast itinerary , Day 6 takes you to an iconic landscape that’s been the backdrop for countless movies and commercials: Monument Valley.

From Grand Canyon Village to Monument Valley Welcome center, it takes about 3 hours by car.

Located on the Arizona-Utah border , Monument Valley is famous for its red mesas and vast sandstone buttes, some reaching heights of more than 300m.

As Monument Valley is on Navajo Nation Land, the entrance isn’t included with the “America the Beautiful Pass”. It costs around 20$ per vehicle. 

You have 2 options to cover the 27-kilometer Monument Valley Scenic drive, which takes you around some of the most famous landmarks:

1) Make the journey in your own vehicle but the road can be a bit rough and bumpy, so a SUV or 4×4 is recommended, especially if it has rained in the days preceding your visit . You will also have to purchase a permit at the Visitor Center.

2) Taking a guided tour, one of the best ways to explore Monument Valley  and clearly the easiest solution!

Navajo guides offer unique insights into the history, legends, and the significance of the formations you see around. And they’ll be able to take you to places that are only accessible with them.

The tour I recommend takes in all the iconic sites of Monument Valley: West and East Mitten, 3 Sisters, John Ford Point, Moccasin Arch, Big Hogan, Sun’s Eye, North Window and Sleeping Dragon.

You will also visit the Navajo Tribal Park where you can learn more about the Navajo way of life and their deep connection to the land. You can also enjoy a traditional music show .

You need to book this guided tour in advance by clicking here:

This excursion is also available in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset. You need to book it here!

Spend the night around Monument Valley. Tomorrow, on Day 7 of your 2-week west coast USA road trip , you will have many more of beautiful places to discover.

• Wetherill Inn : Located in the city of Kayenta. Double room from 140€. Strong points: clean, spacious bedroom, good breakfast.
• Goulding’s Lodge : Located in Monument Valley. Double room from 190€. Strong points: the view over Monument Valley, comfortable room, good restaurant, location.
• Hampton Inn Kayenta Monument Valley : Located in Kayenta. Double room from 230€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, typical Navajo cuisine, excellent breakfast, peace and quiet.

Day 7 – Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend / Lake Powell

On Day 7 of your 2-week road trip in the USA , your itinerary takes you from the iconic mesas of Monument Valley to the twisted corridors of Antelope Canyon , and finally, to the tranquil waters of Lake Powell .

Start your day by heading towards Antelope Canyon, 1.5 hours by car from the town of Kayenta .

This slot canyon , shaped by erosion, is a photographer’s paradise. The way sunlight filters down the narrow, wave-like walls of the canyon creates a surreal environment.

There are two parts to Antelope Canyon: Upper and Lower. Both sections offer unique perspectives, so choose according to your interest (If you ask me, I would recommend the Upper Canyon!)

No matter which you choose, Guided tours are mandatory, and you need to book in advance by clicking on the green buttons below.

• The Upper Canyon is more accessible and famous for its splendid shades of orange and red:
• The Lower Canyon is deeper and narrower:

After the mesmerizing experience at Antelope Canyon, head over to the famous Horseshoe Bend, only 15 minutes by car from Antelope.

A short hike from the parking lot will bring you to this must-see site during your 2-week stay in the American West. The spectacle of the Colorado River winding around this massive rock formation is breathtaking.

After taking as many photos as you like, your next stop is Lake Powell .

This man-made reservoir offers a stark contrast to the desert landscapes you’ve been traversing. Here, the Colorado River has carved out canyons that are now submerged, creating the perfect place for water-based activities.

You can choose to relax on its shores or or set off on a boat or kayak tour. Tours often cover the main attractions like Rainbow Bridge , one of the world’s largest natural bridges.

To end the day in style, admire the sunset over Lake Powell, and get back to your hotel for a good night’s sleep, as there is a lot more to explore on the next day of your USA West Coast trip itinerary in 2 weeks .

All the hotels I’ve selected are in the town of Page, close to Lake Powell:

• Rodeway Inn at Lake Powell : Double room from 100€, breakfast included. Strong points: spacious room, clean, comfortable bedding. The perfect choice if you’re on a budget.
• Baymont by Wyndham Page Lake Powell : Double room from 100€, breakfast included. Strong points: free parking, good breakfast, swimming pool and jacuzzi.
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page Lake Powell : Double room from 140€, breakfast included. Strong points: nice outdoor area with the swimming pool and jacuzzi, bedroom with sitting area and kitchenette, close to bars and restaurants.
• Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel : Double room from 160€, breakfast included. Strong points: superb views from the terrace, ideal location, comfortable and spacious room.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Page, AZ : Double room from 170€, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, modern rooms, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym. It’s the best option for a more high end stay!

Day 8 – Bryce Canyon

Today, you will discover the unique landscapes of Bryce Canyon.

Bryce Canyon is a 2h40-minute drive from Lake Powell.

Bryce is renowned for its unique geology. It’s not a canyon in the traditional sense, but a collection of giant natural amphitheaters. Here you can discover hundreds of fairy chimneys, known as “Hoodos”. 

To get to the best viewpoints of the park , you should take the 29 kilometers scenic drive . The most famous viewpoints along the way Fairyland Point, Sunrise Point , Inspiration Point, Bryce Point Sunset Point, Natural Bridge and Agua Canyon.

They all offer unique perspectives of Bryce’s canyon impressive landscapes!

And if you are up for a hike, you should opt for the Navajo Loop Trail and Queen’s Garden Trail combination (around 2h30 total) , in my opinion the best option. It will take you right into the heart of the main amphitheater. 

And if you’re looking for a more extensive hike, the Peek-A-Boo Loop (3h30) offers a close encounter with the park’s main attractions.

If you don’t fancy taking your car to explore the park or if you want to add a fun activity during the day, there are several other ways to discover Bryce Canyon:

• Free shuttle buses
• A minivan tour with a local guide
• A quad bike tour (Awesome!)
• Hiking with a guide
• Horse riding
• Guided E-bike tour
• A horse-drawn wagon ride.

All the hotels are located in Bryce Canyon City, just before the entrance to the national park.

• Bryce Canyon Pines : Double room from 160€. Strong points: clean, good restaurant, swimming pool.
• Bryce View Lodge Part of the Ruby’s Inn Resort : Double room from 185€, breakfast included. Strong points: big parking, quiet, indoor swimming pool.
• Best Western PLUS Ruby’s Inn : Double room from 200€, breakfast included. Strong points: good breakfast and restaurant, big indoor swimming pool, spacious and comfortable bedroom.
• Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel : Double room from 300€, breakfast included. Strong points: pleasant staff, heated swimming pool, free parking. The best choice for a more upscale stay!

Day 9 – Zion National Park

On Day 9, head to one of the most iconic national parks in the US., Zion National Park, 1h45 drive from Bryce Canyon. 

Zion National Park , a part of the Greater Zion area , is renowned for its massive sandstone cliffs, narrow canyons, and a range of unique biodiversity.

To get a deeper understanding of the park’s geology and history, you should visit the Zion Canyon Visitor Center and the Zion Human History Museum.

After that you can take the Zion Canyon Scenic Drive.

It’s the best way to discover some of the most picturesque landscapes in the park. While private vehicles have limited access during peak seasons , the park shuttle service operates frequently.

In Zion, you will also find trails for every skill level:

• The Narrows, one of the park’s most renowned hikes, takes you through the narrowest sections of Zion Canyon.
• For adrenalin-seekers , Angel’s Landing offers incomparable views. But beware if you are afraid of heights : this hike is very difficult , especially in the final section where the path is barely a metre wide and bordered by a 300 metre drop…

The park also offers several great activities (click on the orange links fore more info and to book):

• Horseback riding in Zion
• Sunset jeep tour
• Star-gazing with a guide
• Helicopter flight

With Zion’s imposing cliffs behind you, you’d have experienced some of the best that a west coast road trip in 2 weeks can offer.

All the hotels are located in Springdale, the best place to stay close the entrance to the national park.

• Zion Park Motel : Double room from 130€. Strong points: free parking, heated swimming pool, fridge and microwave in the room, shuttle bus to the park stops right outside.
• La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale : Double room from 190€,breakfast included. Strong points: nice area with swimming pool, clean and spacious room, view over the mountain
• Holiday Inn Express Springdale – Zion National Park Area, an IHG Hotel : Double room from 270€. Strong points: hearty breakfast, nice swimming pool with view, great welcome. It’s my favorite hotel for its excellent value for money in the area.
• Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites : Double room from 350€. Strong points: well-maintained, clean and well-tended complex, top-notch breakfast, beautiful swimming pool.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park : Double room from 400€, breakfast included. Strong points: magnificent hotel decorated with great taste, beautiful room and large bathroom, magnificent setting, excellent breakfast. It’s the best choice for a luxury stay near Zion National park!

Day 10 – Death Valley

Your 2 weeks USA West Coast road trip itinerary will now take you to the Death Valley , no less than 5 hours from Zion by car.

Death Valley is known as the hottest and driest national park in the U.S.

Contrary to its ominous name, Death Valley bursts with life and beauty, and is renowned for its remarkable geological features.

First, drop by Furnace Creek Visitor Center to get essential information, and watch a short film about the park to learn more about its geology and history.

Then, to see the main attractions, you have to take the Badwater Road (Highway 178): 

1. Badwater Basin: Starting off, you should head to the lowest point in North America, sitting at 86m below sea level. The salt flats here are a surreal sight, especially during sunrise or sunset when they shimmer in the golden hue.

2. Dante’s View: For a panoramic view of the valley. On a clear day, you can even see the highest point of the U.S. (except in Alaska), Mount Whitney.

3. Devil’s Golf Course:  An expansive salt pan dotted with jagged spires, this terrain is so rough that it’s humorously said, “only the devil could play golf here.”

4. Artist’s Palette:  A kaleidoscope of colors on the Black Mountains, this area showcases mineral deposits causing a blend of blues, purples, and greens, resembling an artist’s color palette.

5. Zabriskie Point: This viewpoint is famous for its eroded landscape. It’s also the perfect place to watch sunrise or sunset.

In the North of Death Valley, you can also go to Ubehebe Crater.  Resulting from a volcanic explosion, this massive crater is another testament to the geological diversity of the valley.

• El Portal Motel : Located in Beatty. Double room from 90€. Strong points: free parking, outdoor swimming pool, clean.
• The Ranch At Death Valley : Located in Furnace Creek. Double room from 150€. Strong points: comfortable, nice swimming pool and outdoor area, ideal location.
• The Inn at Death Valley : Located in Death Valley. Double room from 320€. Strong points: the garden, the setting, the pool, provision of buggies to get around. For sure the best hotel in the area!

Day 11 – Mammoth Lakes

From the arid landscapes of Death Valley, you will now go to the green mountainous region of Mammoth Lakes , about 4 hour drive away.

Known for its ski slopes, mountain biking trails, and lakes, Mammoth Lakes is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, no matter the season!

If you’re visiting during winter, the slopes of Mammoth Mountain await you. In summer, you can take the gondola to the summit for panoramic views or go mountain biking.

At the Hot Creek Geological Site, you can see the boiling water bubbles up from the creek bed , a stark contrast to the snowy peaks in the backdrop during winter.

You should also pass by the Devils Postpile National Monument to witness the unique basalt rock formations . Don’t miss the Rainbow Falls waterfall, a short hike away.

Mammoth Lakes is a also hiker’s paradise with many trails. For the full list, you should head to the official website.

• Alpenhof Lodge : Double room from 145€. Strong points: close to the lakes and the town centre, quiet, very comfortable. If you’re on a budget, this hotel is the best choice!
• Cinnamon Bear Inn : Double room from 170€, breakfast included. Strong points: very warm welcome, good breakfast.
• Empeiria High Sierra Hotel : Double room from 190€. Strong points: modern, pleasant, very clean, laundry and swimming pool.
• Juniper Springs Resort : Flat for up to 6 people from €250. Strong points: real kitchen well equipped for cooking, spacious, friendly staff, barbecue.
• The Village Lodge : Studios and flats from 260€. Strong points: facilities, swimming pool, Netflix, size of accommodation, terrace with views, free parking. Perfect for a luxury stay!

Day 12 – Yosemite

Let’s continue your 2-week itinerary on the West Coast and explore one of the most iconic national parks in the U.S.: Yosemite!

From Mammoth Lakes, it will take you around 2h30 to get there.

The Yosemite National Park is famous for its granite cliffs, breathtaking waterfalls, and ancient sequoias. 

If it’s open (usually during the warmer months), you will drive the Tioga Pass, a scenic route which offers some of the most splendid views in the entire park. Don’t forget to stop at Olmsted Point for a unique view of Half Dome and the surrounding peaks.

And if you’re up for a bit of hiking, you should opt for one of the many trails starting from Tuolumne Meadows.

If you don’t want to go hiking, continue along the road to the the heart of the park in Yosemite Valley and go to the iconic viewpoint of Tunnel View.

Here, you can marvel at landmarks like El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall and Half Dome .

For a panoramic view of the entire Yosemite Valley, you should head to Glacier Point . This overlook offers clear views of Half Dome, Yosemite Falls, and Yosemite’s high country.

If you’re up for a walk, I would suggest you to do the Valley Loop Trail . It offers up-close views of some of the valley’s most famous sights. 

• Yosemite View Lodge : Double room from 300€. Strong points: nice view, quiet, 4 pools, room with kitchenette.

Day 13 – From Yosemite to San Francisco

Today, you will head to the final leg of your road trip: the iconic city of San Francisco.

But before immersing yourself in the city vibes, there are a couple of scenic spots you can enjoy along the way!

1) Muir Woods National Monument

Renowned for its towering old-growth redwood trees , the park offers a peaceful escape. The shaded trails are perfect for a hike in the woods.

You can find information about entrance fees and parking reservations (which are required) on the official website.  

2) Sausalito: this picturesque waterfront town offers a Mediterranean-like ambiance.

Stroll around its boutique shops , enjoy a coffee by the harbor, or try the delicious fresh seafood.

3) Golden Gate Bridge

The grand finale of the day is the crossing of the Golden Gate Bridge, the iconic red suspension bridge, during the late afternoon.

But before that, you should stop at Vista Point and Battery Spencer viewpoint to take a photo of the Golden Gate!

Spend the night in San Francisco.

There are a lot of hotels in San Francisco, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you  the best hotels in San Francisco, depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should  book your hotel as early as possible!

• HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel: Youth hostel located in Union Square. Beds in dormitories from €50. Strong points: location, warm welcome, friendly atmosphere. An excellent choice for cheap accomodation in San Francisco!
• Grant Hotel: Located 5 minutes’ walk from Union Square. Rooms are decorated in a slightly old-fashioned style but are spacious and clean from €105 per night. Strong points: location, free coffee and biscuits, friendly staff.
• Greenwich Inn: Located between Presidio Park and Fisherman’s Wharf. Double room from €150 per night. Strong points: free parking, warm welcome, spacious room, plenty of restaurants in the area.
• Handlery Union Square Hotel: Located in Union Square. Very spacious and comfortable double room with large windows from €210. Strong points: outdoor swimming pool, perfect for visiting San Francisco, comfortable beds.
• Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf: Located in Fisherman’s wharf. Modern, comfortable double room from €270, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor swimming pool, location, good breakfast, very helpful staff.
• Hotel Nikko San Francisco: Located in Union Square, this 5-star hotel offers tastefully decorated rooms from €500. Strong points: indoor pool, spa, attentive staff, design, valet parking.

On the 14th day of your 2-week road trip in the USA , you’re going to visit San Francisco.

Here is the itinerary you should follow to see the major highlights of the city.

You should start your day at the Presidio , to enjoy the beautiful viewpoints over the Golden Gate Bridge. The best ones are Fort Point, Golden Gate Overlook, and Crissy Field.

Optionally , if you’re a fan of Disney animated, you can visit the Walt Disney Family Museum (tickets here!) located nearby. Dive into the magical world of Disney and understand the genius behind it all.

Next, make a quick stop at the Palace of Fine Arts . This neo-classical monument is surrounded by a small lake and offers a perfect backdrop for photos.

Of course, while in San Francisco, you should go see the Alcatraz island!

Take the ferry, explore the infamous prison island and learn more about its captivating history.

To visit Alcatraz, you need to book your ticket in advance by clicking on the green button below:

If you’re not interested in visiting Alcatraz, you can for example opt for a San Francisco Bay Cruise instead. Experience the bay, the islands, and of course, the breathtaking views of the Golden Gate from the sea.

You need to book your boat trip by clicking here:

Around lunch time, you can go to the bustling Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39 .

Try the fresh seafood or the famous clam chowder in a sourdough bowl (a San Francisco classic), watch the sea lions , and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Once you’ve rested a bit, you can start your afternoon by visiting Madame Tussauds museum or the Aquarium of the Bay .

Then, stroll up and down the famous winding Lombard Street , dubbed as the crookedest street in the world.

Next, you can go to the top of Coit Tower . The panoramic view of the city from up there is really beautiful.

In the late afternoon , you should immerse yourself in the culture of Chinatown. Dive into its alleyways, shops, and eateries.

For dinner , you can eat there or go the Ferry Building Marketplace: It’s the ideal place if you want to sample a whole host of delicacies.

Spend another night in San Francisco.

You can find more details about visiting San Francisco in my other article: The 27 best things to do in San Francisco.

To visit San Francisco and save money ,you should buy the San Francisco All-inclusive pass by Go City. 

The pass is valid for 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days and give access to more than 30 tourist attractions .

Here are some of the activities included:

• San Francisco Bay Cruise
• Aquarium of the Bay
• Fisherman’s wharf walking tour
• Entrance to all the museums
• Chinatown walking tour
• Mission district tour.

For more information about this pass and the activities included, click on the button below :

This is the final day of your west coast America road trip in 2 weeks itinerary, and you will have some time to discover a bit more of San Francisco.

Begin with Golden Gate Park , a vast urban oasis. Wander its paths, gardens, and landmarks.

If you want to visit a museum, you can opt for de Young Museum (art museum) or the California Academy of Sciences (the perfect choice if you’re traveling with kids).

Take a nostalgic journey through the Haight-Ashbury district , the birthplace of America’s counterculture. The colorful streets and vintage stores evoke memories of the 1960s hippie movement.

No visit is complete without seeing the iconic Painted Ladies near Alamo Square. These Victorian houses are the most famous in the city!

You can then head to the vibrant Mission District . Admire its murals , and perhaps, grab a burrito, as you will find great Mexican food in the neighborhood.

Next, explore the historic Castro District , the epicenter of the LGBTQ+ community. Its colorful streets, historic theaters, and lively ambiance are not to be missed.

And if you like Modern art, you can visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

To end your trip in style, why not go for a bit of shopping and dining at Union Square, the city’s maincommercial hub.

That’s it, you now know how to plan your 2 weeks road trip across the west coast!

If you have only 14 days to visit the West coast , you should remove a day in San Francisco or Los Angeles.

On the contrary, if you’ve got 16 days for your West coast road trip , you have 2 options:

• If you enjoy hiking, add a day in one of the National parks
• You can also add 1 day in Los Angeles , to have the time to explore Malibu or Newport Beach.

Tips before starting your road trip on the USA West Coast

Here are some tips to consider before embarking on a road trip in the USA.

If you’re not living in the USA, it’s mandatory. You can’t enter the United States without it. 

• What is it? It’s an online application system introduced by the U.S. government to pre-screen travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries.
• Before You Apply: Ensure your country is a member of the VWP.
• Duration: It’s typically valid for 2 years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

Apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your trip.

Of course, use only the official website to avoid scams.

• Why is it Important? Medical care in the U.S. is extremely expensive. Having insurance is the only way to avoid unexpected medical bills and other travel-related mishaps.
• Coverage: The basic insurances cover medical emergencies, and more expensive ones also cover trip cancellations and lost luggage.

On my side, I always opt for ACS: it’s a great deal and they are very reliable. You can check their price and purchase your travel insurance by clicking here.

I already talked about that at the beginning at this article but here is a quick reminder. To drive in the US, here are the important things to know:

• International Driving Permit (IDP): If your driver’s license is not in English, or if you’re planning to rent a car, it’s a good idea to get an IDP from your home country.
• American cars are usually automatic. If you’re not used to it, learn the basic functions and controls before hitting the road.
• Stay Updated: Download navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates.

To help you visualize your itinerary a bit better, I’ve created a map of all the best places to visit during your 2 weeks in the USA.

You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

And if you need any help to plan your 2-week road trip on the West coast, don’t hesitate to ask me your questions in the comments section below!

Discover all my articles about USA : All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• Las Vegas: Top 30 Best things to do and must-see attractions
• Los Angeles: The 45 best places to visit
• New York: The 57 best things to do
• San Francisco: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary
• 4 Days in New York – The perfect itinerary for your visit
• One Week in New York – The perfect 7-day itinerary

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

4 Days in Los Angeles: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

5 Days in Los Angeles: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

One week in Los Angeles: the best 7 days itinerary

Discussion 2 comments.

How much does it cost, to do the trip like you explained?

As I often explain, it’s not possible to give you an overall budget for this 2-week itinerary in the Western USA. It depends on the season you go, how far in advance you book, the type of hotel, the activities you do or don’t do and the cost of car hire. It can range from one to four times.

You’ll find all the price information in the article, so don’t hesitate to click on the orange links or green button for the prices of the activities. For hotels, just click on any hotel name in orange in the article to see the rates for your travel dates. For car hire, it’s the same: just click on the green button in the article “I checked the rental car prices in USA”. So you can calculate quite easily depending on what you want to do.

Enjoy your 2-week road trip in the USA!

Leave A Reply Cancel Reply

Your Name (required)

Your Email (required)

Your Website (optional)

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Middle East
• North America
• Cheap car rentals: my best advice
• Back to Homepage

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best Two Week (14-Day) Tours from Las Vegas

Looking for the perfect two-week packaged tour departing from Las Vegas ? We've carefully analyzed all of the possible 14 and 15 day tour options from Las Vegas in the USA based on price, service, guest ratings, comfort, cuisine, and activities in order to find the absolute best organized tour options available. Whether you're seeking a relaxing getaway or an action-packed expedition, these two-week guided tours offer the perfect amount of time to indulge in the best of both worlds. From captivating excursions to tantalizing meals, get ready to experience the ultimate escape that will leave you with unforgettable memories and a renewed sense of wanderlust. Great for museums & attractions, food, nightlife, and music, the USA is a terrific destination. So, check out our curated list of tours departing from Las Vegas to get started with your next trip.

• Exploring America's Great Parks 15 Days, $5499.00
• Utah, Nevada & California 14 Days, $3805.00
• Exploring America's National Parks 15 Days, $3279.00

What are the two-week tours from Las Vegas like?

Here are the important factors:

• 16 trip options analyzed
• $289 average price per day (USD)
• 13 to 15 days in length
• 4.62 of 5 average rating
• 35 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of two-week tours from Las Vegas? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.62 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 35 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 13 days, while the longest is 15 days. Looking at physical activity , the tours are moderate, easy, and relaxing, with the most as moderate. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 16 two-week tours from Las Vegas, you can rest assured that the USA has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best 2-Week Tours from Las Vegas in the USA

Exploring america's great parks.

• High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.

This exceptional trip offering by Globus has received a 5 out of 5 rating. On this 15-day voyage you can unwind while also making new memories. Uncover the beauty of 18 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Arches National Park, Grand Junction, Denver, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. Your adventure starts and ends in Las Vegas. With a group size of 46 people, it's suitable for travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. With an emphasis on wildlife, local culture, and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $357 per day.

• In-depth Cultural

Utah, Nevada & California

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for two-week tours from Las Vegas.

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating. Traverse through 8 enchanting destinations, with Moab, Bryce Canyon National Park, Bishop, and Yosemite National Park among the must-see stops along the route. Las Vegas marks the starting point, while San Francisco stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. Spanning across 14 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 12 participants, and it's great for travelers aged 15 or older. Brought to you by the renowned Intrepid Travel , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $258 per day - an unbeatable value.

Exploring America's National Parks

This 15-day journey is ideal for travelers aged 5 or older. And priced at only $219 per day, it's a great value, too. Rest assured, this trip is all about local culture and family-friendly activities, guaranteeing an unforgettable adventure. This trip visits 13 destinations, including Bryce Canyon National Park, Williams, Grand Canyon National Park, and Monument Valley along the way. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Las Vegas. It's offered by Cosmos , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

• Coach / Bus

Scenic Parks Explorer (15 Days)

• On Sale: 10% Off See Prices

Priced at just $407 per day, this terrific 15-day voyage is ideal for travelers aged 5 or older. Experience a trip that takes you to 20 remarkable destinations, including Jackson, Grand Teton National Park, Yellowstone National Park, and Cody. You'll start and end your journey in beautiful Las Vegas. Organized by the reputable Trafalgar , this is one of the best tours on this list. Act quickly to seize the current limited-time sale and reserve your spot now.

Zion to San Francisco Adventure

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 4.5 out of 5 rating from previous guests. With a duration of 14 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 13 people, and is good for travelers aged 12 to 90 years old. Explore 13 incredible locations on this trip, including Bryce Canyon National Park, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, and Page. Las Vegas marks the starting point, while San Francisco stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. This fantastic option, organized by G Adventures , presents an unbeatable value at just $332 per day.

• Hiking & Trekking

Spectacular Canyons and National Parks (End Rapid City, 13 Days, Keystone To Rapid City Airport Coach Drop)

• On Sale: 20% Off See Prices

Spanning over 13 days, this journey has a maximum size of 52 individuals. Welcoming travelers aged 5 to 80 years old, it is organized by Costsaver , a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Discover a journey that spans 17 destinations, with notable stops in Yellowstone National Park, Cody, Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, and Sheridan. Beginning in beautiful Las Vegas, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Rapid City. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on wildlife and family-friendly activities. Available at an unbeatable price of only $187 per day, this option also has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from previous guests. Act now to take advantage of the special sale price!

Spectacular Canyons and National Parks (End Denver, 13 Days, Denver Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer) (19 destinations)

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional voyage that has garnered a 4.4 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 13 days, this jouney will have 52 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. You'll love the emphasis on wildlife and family-friendly activities, too. Expertly organized by Costsaver , this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $187 per day. It's currently on a special discounted offer.

Canyons, Cities & National Parks: 14-Day West Coast Adventure featuring Grand Canyon, LA, Yosemite & San Fran

This memorable voyage is offered by The Coyote Trip which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $239 per day. With 5 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Grand Canyon National Park, Los Angeles, and Yosemite National Park, and more. Las Vegas marks the starting point, while San Francisco stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. The maximum group size is 20 people, welcoming travelers aged 18 to 35 years old.

Spectacular Canyons and National Parks (End Rapid City, 13 Days)

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 4.4 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 13 days, this journey offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 52 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. Along the way, this journey encompasses 18 destinations, including West Yellowstone, Cody, Sheridan, and Keystone. Beginning in beautiful Las Vegas, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Rapid City. Brought to you by Costsaver , this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $247 per day.

Spectacular Canyons and National Parks (End Denver, 13 Days)

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 13 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 52 participants at most. This itinerary covers 17 captivating destinations, with stops in Keystone, Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Grand Canyon National Park, and Flagstaff, among others. Las Vegas will mark the start of your journey, while Denver will serve as its final destination. Costsaver , the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers aged 5 to 80 years old. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $247 per day.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to the USA , The Best Wildlife Tours to the USA , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in the USA , The Best Historical Tours in the USA , The Best 10-Day Tours in the USA , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in the USA , The Best 3-Day Tours in the USA , The Best 2-Week Tours in the USA , The Best 3-Week Tours in the USA , The Best Bicycle Tours in the USA , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in the USA , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in the USA , The Best Coach Bus Tours in the USA , The Best Adventure Tours to the USA , The Best Eco Tours in the USA , The Best Train & Rail Tours in the USA , The Best Cruise Tours and Packages in the USA , The Best Sightseeing Tours in the USA , The Best Cultural Tours in the USA , The Best Photography Tours in the USA , The Best Camping Tours in the USA , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in the USA , The Best Polar Tours & Cruises in the USA , The Best Walking Tours in the USA , The Best Tours Under $1000 in the USA , The Best Luxury Tours to the USA , The Best Tours for Seniors to the USA , The Best Contiki Tours to the USA , or The Best G Adventures Tours to the USA for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Las Vegas , The Best 3-Day Tours from Asheville , The Best 3-Day Tours from Los Angeles , The Best 3-Day Tours from New York City , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Las Vegas , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Los Angeles , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Anchorage , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Jackson , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Boston , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Nashville , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Seattle , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from San Francisco , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from New York City , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Chicago , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Phoenix , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Washington DC , The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Honolulu , The Best 10-Day Tours from Las Vegas , The Best 10-Day Tours from Anchorage , The Best 10-Day Tours from Boston , The Best 10-Day Tours from Nashville , The Best 10-Day Tours from Honolulu , The Best 2-Week Tours from Anchorage , The Best 2-Week Tours from New York City , The Best 2-Week Tours from San Francisco , The Best 2-Week Tours from Los Angeles , The Best 2-Week Tours from Nashville , The Best 2-Week Tours from Atlanta , or The Best 2-Week Tours from Honolulu for more package tour options.

How much do two-week tours from Las Vegas cost?

After analyzing 16 two-week tours from Las Vegas in the USA, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $289 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for two-week tours from Las Vegas with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in the USA .

And for more information on United States of America, see United States of America Travel Costs and United States of America Hotel Costs .

Subscribe to our Newsletter

By signing up for our email newsletter, you will receive occasional updates from us with sales and discounts from major travel companies , plus tips and advice from experienced budget travelers!

Budget Your Trip

Some of the links on this website are sponsored or affiliate links which help to financially support this site. By clicking the link and making a purchase, we may receive a small commission, but this does not affect the price of your purchase.

• Privacy / Terms of Use
• Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

2 Week South America Itinerary: Six Awesome Itineraries to Inspire Your Travels

You’re not going to be able to see all of South America in 2 weeks –  but we’ve got everything you need to plan your travels with our pick of two week South America Itineraries. Inspiration for your next Latin American adventure.

By Sophie Ritchie and Julianna Barnaby

Going to South America ? Read my step-by-step South America guide. Everything you need to know to plan your trip.

South America is such a large continent that it can be difficult to know where to start and how much to see on a shorter trip. Into beaches, jungle or mind-blowing landscapes? 

Whichever way, there’s an itinerary for you.

Routes Featured in This Guide

• Explore Patagonia: El Chaltén, Perito Moreno Glacier, El Chalten, Torres del Paine
• Exploring the Incan Empire and Lake Titicaca: La Paz, Lake Titicaca, Cusco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu
• Incredible Landscapes in the Altiplano: Atacama Desert, Bolivian Altiplano, Salar de Uyuni
• An Amazon Adventure: Manaus, Tabatinga, Leticia, Iquitos
• Beach Hopping Break in Brazil: Ilhabela, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Fernando de NoronhaIt’s little wonder that the vast landscape of the Salar de Uyuni (Bolivia Salt Flats) is a bucket list spot. Plan your trip with this guide.
• Explore Ecuador and the Galapagos: Quito, Cloud Forest of Mindo, Otavalo & Cotacachi, Antisana Reserve, Avenue of the Volcanoes, Galapagos Islands inc. Darwin Bay

Exploring South America’s Crazy Landscapes

Destinations: Santiago, Atacama Desert, Bolivian Altiplano, Salar de Uyuni.

Countries: Bolivia and Chile

Two weeks in South America is not enough time to see everything that the continent has to offer.

This trip will take you to the very best of the continent’s incredible landscapes so you can decide on your own personal favourite.

Make sure you have a trusty travel camera for this one… you’re going to need it.

Day 1: Santiago

Where better to arrive than in Santiago , Chile’s capital city. Santiago rivals La Paz for its dramatic setting: it sits in a valley surrounded by the towering Andes mountains.

It’s a cool city,  with lots of options for sightseeing, restaurants, nightlife and lots of accommodation. If you have a bit more time, spend a couple of days exploring Santiago, but you can see a reasonable chunk of the city in one day . 

I recommend hiking to the top of Cerro San Cristobal for epic views over the city, as well as visiting the impressive Templo Bahai and spending a morning wandering around Bicentenary Park.

You also cannot visit Santiago without admiring the old colonial architecture – Cerro Santa Lucia, in particular, is stunning.

Suggested Stay: The Singular Santiago

Day 2: San Pedro de Atacama

Fly to Calama, and journey to San Pedro de Atacama , where you will lodge for the night. San Pedro is pretty tiny and congested (to be honest, it’s not our favourite place) but it makes a good base for exploring the Atacama Desert by taking tours.

If you want a completely unique experience, hire a campervan or a car to explore the Atacama at your own pace.

If you have the money, another (much pricier but also fabulous) alternative to staying in San Pedro is basing yourself in one of the high-end lodges dotted around the area such as Explora Atacama and Nayara Alto Atacama .

Perfect if you’re looking for a touch of luxe for the trip.

Nayara Alto Atacama – Read My Full Review Here

Days 3-7: The Atacama Desert

Spend a few days taking tours or driving yourself around the Atacama Desert .

Be sure to see the highlights such as El Tatio Geyser Field and the Valle de la Luna . The Laguna Cejar , where you can float in the salt water, is another must-see.

Get off the beaten track in the Atacama Desert and you’ll be well rewarded… High altitude lakes such as the Salar de Quisquiro and Salar de Capur look like they’re straight off of another planet.

Don’t forget to bring your binoculars – the Atacama has some of the clearest night skies in the world and the stargazing is unrivalled .

The Perfect 3-Day Atacama Itinerary

Days 8-12: The Bolivian Altiplano

Hop over the border to Bolivia to the small Bolivian town of Tupiza to start a four-day adventure across the Bolivian Altiplano .

Visitors tend to take tours along this route, though it is possible to drive a rental vehicle (this will need to be a 4×4 – the terrain is very rough).

Either way, you’ll see thrilling Bolivian landscapes such as the Laguna Verde (Green Lake), the Quebrada de Palala and the surreal Laguna Colorada (Red Lake).

Day 13: The Salar de Uyuni

Carry on to explore the Salar to Uyuni (Bolivian Salt Flats) , the world’s largest salt flat (a place we love so much, we’ve written a whole guide on it: when to visit the Bolivian salt flats ).

Having met with the locals at the village of San Cristobal, walk up the Valle de las Rocas, and see unparalleled views of the Ollagües Stratovolcano and the flamingo-lined Hedionda shores.

Spend the night at the luxurious Salt Palace, the world’s first salt hotel.

Palacio del Sal

Day 14: Calama and Home

Your two weeks in South America are almost over.

The last day of this South America itinerary consists of walking along the never-ending salt-flats, and stopping at Incahuasi Island to see the remains of the once-submerged volcano.

You’ll return to Calama and then take a flight to Santiago for your journey home.

2 Weeks in Patagonia

Destinations: El Chaltén, Mount Fitzroy, Lago Argentino, Perito Moreno Glacier, El Calafate, Puerto Natales, Torres del Paine

Countries: Chile and Argentina

Patagonia needs no introduction –  tucked away in the southernmost region of South America, its vast landscapes and barren seascapes are like something out of your imagination. Except this is definitely real life and you can go there.  

Once, Patagonia was only inhabited by glaciers and wildlife – something that’s difficult to forget when you look out at empty sceneries and wide-open views.

You could reasonably spend a lot longer in Patagonia but we’ve created the perfect Patagonia 2 week itinerary to showcase the region’s highlights.

Day 1: El Chaltén

Kick off your South America two week itinerary in Patagonia in the small but thriving backpacking town of El Chaltén in Argentina.

This tiny hamlet has expanded over recent years and now boasts some good hotels and cool restaurants and bars – make sure to check out La Tapera and Mathilda.

Travel to El Chalten and recover from your journey: you’ll need your energy for tomorrow.

Don Los Cerros Boutique Hotel & Spa

Days 2 + 3: Mount Fitz Roy

Time to roll out the big hiking legs to head on a two-day trip to Mount Fitz Roy, which takes about 4 hours hiking each way, setting camp at Campamento Poincenot overnight.

Mount Fitz Roy is on the border between Argentina and Chile and was first climbed in 1952 by Frenchmen Lionel Terray and Guido Magnone. 

Expect to see stunning rocky outcrops giving way to gorgeous blue covered lagoons and snow-capped peaks in the near distance. 

After your camp, you’ll head back to El Chaltén for another night before you move on.

Campamento Poincenot

Days 4 + 5: Lago Argentino

Stunning as El Chalten and its surroundings are, you’ve barely scratched the surface. It’s time to transfer to Lago Argentino, partly via Ruta 40, Argentina’s most famous highway. Once there, keep driving to the Lago Roca campsite (in the Parque Nacional Glaciares) on Route 15 for the night.

The next day you will then hike to the breathtaking Perito Moreno Glacier , one of the most beautiful glaciers in the world, before heading to Puerto Bandera for a boat ride to the glacier’s edge.

Have your cameras at the ready as you’ll see sights you’ve never seen before on this incredible cruise.

Day 6: El Calafate

Take a road trip to El Calafate , 51 km east of Puerto Bandera. El Calafate is well connected – making it the perfect overnight stop.

The town also has a range of accommodation, from luxury hotels such as Esplendor El Calafate , to more budget hostels and campsites depending on your budget ( Hostel America Del Sur is a fabulous choice and puts on an incredible Asado feast once every few days).

While you’re in town, take some time to walk out to the spectacular Reserva Natural Laguna Nimez – it’s a great place for spotting flamingos and other birdlife.

Esplendor El Calafate or Hostel America Del Sur

Day 7: Puerto Natales

Hop on a minibus across to the Chile border at Rio Turbio and stop in the lively port city of Puerto Natales, where you will stay overnight.

Hostel-wise The Singing Lamb gets our vote – if you’re looking for something a little more upmarket, go to Hotel Indigo or The Singular for a high-end option.

There’s not a huge amount to do in Puerto Natales – it’s a relatively quiet spot with a nice atmosphere. If you get there early enough, the talk at Erratic Rock about the W Trek is worth attending as they’ll talk you through the conditions in Torres Del Paine and what to expect on the hike.

Otherwise, attractions such as the Municipal Historical Museum lie in the city, which displays artefacts from the region’s indigenous population.

The Singular Patagonia Hotel

Days 8-13: W Trek, Torres del Paine National Park

Eep – if you’ve always dreamt of hiking in Torres del Paine National Park, today’s the day that dream becomes a reality. Take a transfer to the park, where you will then take on the 5 day hike on the W Circuit .

The hike is often quoted as one of South America’s best, thanks to a range of mountain, glacier and lake views, ending with the spectacular Torres del Paine themselves.

If you have a little more than two weeks in South America, you can do the 8-day O Trek, which extends the route to a quieter section of the park.

You can camp or book the basic but pleasant refugios on the W Trek, if you opt for the O, you’ll have to camp.

Either way, you’ll want to check out this Torres del Paine packing list . 

Day 14: El Calafate

On the last day of your two weeks in Patagonia, head back to El Calafate to have a rest and perhaps a night in a luxury hotel to unwind and relax (with some steak, of course) before going back to reality.

Exploring the Incan Empire and Lake Titicaca

Destinations: La Paz, Copacabana, Lake Titicaca, Puno, Cuzco, Inca Trail, Machu Picchu

Countries: Peru and Bolivia

Our second itinerary for two weeks in South America takes you through the inner parts of the Incan Empire, witnessing the relics of the Quechua and Aymara nations of Bolivia and Peru .

This route not only gives you an insight into the culture of the Incan peoples, but also some incredible landscapes including Machu Picchu and Lake Titicaca, neither of which should be missed.

Days 1 + 2: La Paz

Arrive in La Paz , your base for the next 2 nights of your South America trip itinerary. La Paz sits on top of the Andes’ Altiplano plateau, more than 3,500m above sea level, and boasts Mount Illimani as its dramatic backdrop. 

It is also home to the world’s longest and highest cable car system, named the ‘Subway in the Sky’. With fabulous local cuisine, Andean music, and a range of accommodation, La Paz is a great place to stop before you begin your big adventure.

Casa Grande

Day 3: Copacabana, Lake Titicaca

From La Paz, hop on a bus trip to Lake Titicaca , which passes through Copacabana, a lakeside resort where you will stay for the night.

Take a day trip out on the lake, which also happens to be the highest navigable body of water recorded on Earth, to the Isla del Sol, which inhabits many pre-Columbian ruins.

Interestingly, Lake Titicaca is said to be home to the birthplace of the Incas and there are plenty of ruins to explore, as well as Titicaca National Reserve which protects rare aquatic wildlife, including giant frogs.

Hotel Onkel Torres

Day 4: Puno, Lake Titicaca

Take a boat ride to Puno. From here, you can take boat trips to the totora-reed islands, man-made islands built by the indigenous Uros using totora reeds.

Then head back to Puno to see the sights; we recommend the beautiful Cathedral Basilica of St. Charles Borromeo. If you’re lucky and in town at the right time, you can enjoy one of the city’s traditional festivals featuring Peruvian music and dancing to celebrate its label as Peru’s “folk capital.”

Hotel Lago Titicaca

Days 5 + 6: Cusco

Puno to Cusco! Known for its architecture and history, and named Inca’s ‘navel of the world’, Cusco is home to the region’s best hotels, along with exciting bars, restaurants and museums.

We think that staying here for two nights is best, as there’s a lot to see. Check out our pick of the best things to do in Cusco .

You’ll be 4,000 metres above sea level here, so don’t be surprised if you feel a little out of breath at first. It takes a little while to fully acclimatise to the altitude.

Antigua Casona San Blas

Days 7-10: The Inca Trail

You will be picked up from your hotel early in the morning, and taken on a 3 hour trip to Kilometre 82, the start of the 4-day Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Rated one of the 5 best treks in the world, this is a 100% must for your bucket list.

The Inca Trail trek has to be booked well in advance – if you don’t nab a space, alternative treks such as Salkantay and Lares are worth looking into.

If you don’t fancy those, explore more of Cusco and its surrounds before heading to Machu Picchu Pueblo (also called Aguas Calientes) to go directly to Machu Picchu.

Salkantay vs Inca Trail: Which is Better?

Day 10: Aguas Calientes/Machu Picchu Pueblo

After having explored Machu Picchu, hike down to Aguas Calientes, where there are a number of hotels to wind down at for the night.

Aguas Calientes isn’t the most relaxing of towns, so unless you have a burning desire to head out and sample the nightlife, take some time to decompress and relax after your strenuous hike.

Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo

Day 11: Poroy to Lima

Take a train from Aguas Calientes to Poroy, marvelling at the Sacred Valley on the Vistadome Train or the more luxurious Hiram Bingham train. After a 25 minute transfer, you’re back in Cusco. Fly to Lima.

The Lot Boutique Hotel

Days 12-14: Lima + Home

Take a whirlwind tour around Lima, the Peruvian capital. Stroll along the Malecon, visit the old town with its majestic cathedral and the striking Monasterio de San Francisco.

Street art lovers should head to Barranco – the centrepoint of Lima’s street art scene.   

Don’t forget to try a few pisco sours and hunt out the best ceviche in Lima along the way.

Unmissable Things to do in Peru

Amazon Adventure  

Destinations: Manaus, Tabatinga, Leticia, Iquitos

Countries: Brazil, Colombia, Peru

In my humble opinion, this is the best South American itinerary. People visit the Amazon for the mosaic of different plants and wildlife that can’t be seen anywhere else.

This two week South America itinerary gives you time to explore the world’s most famous rainforest and plenty of time to relax on slow boats as the time and the views pass by.

Bring plenty of insect repellent, you’ll regret it if you don’t.

Days 1-2 Manaus

Start in the opulent city of Manaus, the capital of the Amazonas state.

The city was built at the height of the rubber boom at the end of the 19th century and is a testament to the riches the industry brought to the region at that time.

Broad roads, spacious piazzas and the famous Teatro Amazonas opera house are just a few of the relics dating back to that time.  We highly recommend taking a one day river trip on the Amazon to spot some wildlife and the meeting of the waters.  

Other brilliant things to do in Manaus include learning about the history of the region at the  Palácio Rio Negro, and visiting the CIG Zoo to spot Harpy Eagles and Jaguars, before picking up traditional, hand-crafted souvenirs in Taberna do Chef Procópio market.

Hotel Adrianopolis

Days 3-7 Boat journey from Manaus to Tabatinga

Book yourself onto the mammoth seven-day journey up the Amazon river to Tabatinga at the Brazilian/ Colombian/ Peruvian border. You can either book to sleep in a hammock on deck, or reserve a private cabin.

Take some time to relax, catch up on your travel reading and generally marvel as you float through the jungle.

Make sure you have your cameras at the ready, you’ll find yourself wanting to take plenty of photos as you cruise of the local wildlife and scenery.

Days 7-9 Leticia and surrounds

Boats from Manaus generally terminate at Tabatinga, a slightly shabby border town. Leticia is just over on the Colombian side and a better choice of base for the next few days.

Take a jungle tour to the Parque Nacional Amacayacu where you can spy pink river dolphins and over 500 species of bird among many other things.

We’d recommend spending the night in a hammock in the parque before returning to Leticia for your onward journey – this is where your insect repellent will come in extra-handy.

Decameron Decalodge

Days 10-13 Slow boat from Leticia to Iquitos

Time for the second slow boat, this time from Leticia to Iquitos in Peru.

You could take a speedboat, which will do the journey in 12 hours – but where’s the fun in that?  

Instead, book a space on one of the barges that crawl their way along the Peruvian Amazon to the large city of Iquitos. Lay back, relax, and once again, drink in the astonishing views of this world-famous waterways at a leisurely pace that will help you relax.

Day 14 Iquitos and Home

Disembark at Iquitos, another city that benefited hugely from the late 19th century rubber boom.

Check out the elegant architecture and intricate decor in buildings such as The Casa de Fierro, Iglesia Matriz and Casa Khan.

Decompress in one of the laid-back bars and savour the excellent local cuisine before heading home. You can’t leave without trying the Sopa de Motelo (turtle soup) or Tecina con Tacacho (salted pork with mashed fried green banana).

Época Iquitos

You can also explore the Ecuadorian  Amazon – read one traveller’s account of his Ecuador Amazon tour.

Beach Lovers’ Itinerary 

Destinations – Santos, Guarujá, Ilhabela, Ubatuba, Catuçuba, Paraty, Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, Fernando de Noronha, Recife

Countries: Brazil

Calling all beach lovers! You think you’ve seen it all? Well, you’re in for a big shock. Just wait until you see the beautiful beaches of Brazil.

You’ll spend two weeks exploring the best beaches in a country that certainly isn’t lacking in sandy spots to flop and drop.

Day 1: Santos

Arrive in Santos, Southern Brazil, home to Brazil’s biggest port. 

Spend your first night in Guarujá, a coastal town near São Paolo, and travel on the old latin-style street cars before settling down with shrimp in pumpkin sauce and a refreshing dip in the sea. 

Best beach: Iporanga Beach, 25km from the city centre. If you want to extend your trip, there are plenty of things to do in Sao Paolo .

Casa Grande Hotel & Spa

Day 2: Ilhabela

Travel up to the BR101 by car, and take a ferry to the island of Ilhabela, where you’ll spend the night. Portuguese for ‘beautiful island’, Ilhabela is a city 4km off the coast.

It boasts the perfect combination of untouched tropical jungle (protected by UNESCO) and pristine beaches where the young and beautiful are known to party. 

Best beach: Bonete.

Hotel Mercedes

Days 3 + 4: Paraty

Take the ferry back, and drive up to Ubatuba, where the road climbs up through the mountains of the Serra do Mar to Catuçuba. You’ll be able to grab some stunning shots here for your Insta feed.

Relax at the local ranch, and even horse-ride in the hills if you fancy. Before it gets dark, carry on your drive to Paraty, where you’ll stay 2 nights.

Paraty is Southern Brazil’s most picturesque city, with a quaint colonial centre combined with beautiful beaches. There’s none of the modern high-rise architecture that you’ll find in Rio or Sao Paulo, instead this UNESCO city centre remains a step back in time to a quieter age.

Head to one of the local distilleries and try Cachaca, a distilled spirit made from fermented sugarcane juice, island hop through some of the 62 islands and 200 beaches around the city, or simply just sit back and chill on Lula or Vermelha beach with a good book.

The hotels and dining are also terrific. 

Best beaches: Lula beach and Vermelha beach.

Pousada do Ouro

Day 5: Ilha Grande

Drive to Angra dos Reis, and catch a ferry to Ilha Grande , a lush green island full of beautiful beaches and forests.

Beach hop or hike around the island; we love Parrot Peak, a hike in the forest that leads to the top of a parrot-shaped rock formation – it’s tough but well worth it for the views.

Best beach: Lopes Mendes.

Hotel Riacho dos Cambucas

Days 6 + 7: Rio de Janeiro

Make your way to Rio de Janeiro . Having arrived in Rio, head to the stunning beaches on its coast. Our favourites are Copacabana, the true city beach, and Ipanema.

We recommend spending 2 nights in Rio to visit both of these beaches and explore the rest of the city.

For something a little different, the stunning beaches of the Barra da Tijuca neighbourhood wind their way along miles and miles of coastline, fringed with some of the city’s most upmarket bars and restaurants.

If you want to get out of the city, head to Buzios, a Riviera-esque beach only a day trip from Rio, which has been famed for its St Tropez chic ever since a bikini-clad Brigitte Bardot visited here in 1964.

Vila Santa Teresa Hotel & Spa

Days 8 + 9: Salvador

Catch a flight to Salvador , and spend a day exploring Bahia’s vibrant and exciting capital.

While Salvador’s beaches aren’t the best in Bahia, take the two hour boat ride to the island of Morro de São Paulo for a slice of the beach life.

There are so many things to do in Salvador, from exploring the Museum of Modern Art which highlights Salvador’s history through modern artwork to scoffing pupusas in the main bustling market in town (delicious fried pancakes filled with meat, cheese, or beans and served with cabbage).

The island’s enchanting beaches and laid-back attitude captures the heart of many a traveller – we wouldn’t blame you if you spent an extra few days here.

Zank Boutique Hotel

Days 10 – 13 Fernando de Noronha

Return to Salvador and fly up to Recife, further north. From Recife, take a flight to Fernando de Noronha, a small island archipelago that’s often named as home to Brazil’s best beaches.

If you’re feeling active, take some time to explore the rich underwater life surrounding the islands – the diving is first-class. Alternatively, take a Catamaran tour around the archipelago and see some of the stunning sea life without getting wet.  

Sample the nightlife at Vila dos Remedios and the Forst Nossa Senhora dos Remedios to capture some of the most stunning sunsets you’ll find anywhere. 

Dolphin Hotel

Day 14: Recife and Home

Return to Recife. If you have a few extra days, make your way to the UNESCO Heritage town of Olinda, one of the prettiest in the country. 

Olinda is known as an artist’s town, and so it’s no surprise it boasts plenty of tiny art galleries and gorgeous buildings. Make sure to check out the Saint Benedict Church and its magnificent (that’s truly the only word to describe it) main altar.

Otherwise, it’s time to go home.

Ecuador & The Galapagos

Destinations: Quito, Mindo, Otavalo, Cotopaxi, Santa Cruz Island, Darwin Bay, Santiago Island, Fernandina Island, Isabela Island

Countries: Ecuador

Ecuador is one of the most underrated jewels in the South American crown, often overlooked, yet, in my opinion, one of the most beautiful and interesting countries in South America.

This cool 2 week itinerary allows you to spend a week exploring the mainland before heading out to sea and explore the incomparable natural climes of the Galapagos Islands. Come away truly understanding why this incredible archipelago so wowed Charles Darwin, just as it will wow you.

Days 1 & 2: Quito

Arrive in Quito, the Ecuadorian capital and spend a couple of days exploring this beautiful city. 

Independence Square is home to the city’s Cathedral, yet it’s the Church of San Francisco dating back to the 16th century and its stunning golden interior that will really charm you, while the 17th-century chapel of La Iglesia de El Sagrario is a more muted, but equally beautiful spot.

Be sure to check out the awesome street art dotted around the city, and experience a walking tour complete with culinary highlights.

Vista del Angel Hotel Boutique

Day 3: Mindo

Make your way out to the western slopes of the Andes to visit the eco-diversity of Mindo, home to thousands of plants and animals.

Although it’s only a couple of hours out of Quito, you’ll feel as though you’ve been dropped in the middle of a tropical jungle paradise, with flora, fauna, and birds of all conceivable colours.

Head to the stunning Cloud Forest to get the best of the natural surroundings, and make sure you grab a glass of the spicy boozy drink Canelazo while you’re in town.

Tarrabambu Lodge

Day 4: Otavalo

Otavalo is the next stop, a few hours north of Quito and near the active Cotacachi volcano. If you can wangle it to visit here on a Saturday, you can enjoy the sights, sounds, and colours of the Otavalo market which is an unmissable cultural experience.

Then, spend a couple of hours visiting the stunning Cuicocha Lake , which sits in a crater of the Cotacachi volcano. This gorgeous natural spot is sacred to locals and there are annual celebrations of traditional rituals taking place here every year.

Hotel El Geranio

Days 5 & 6: Cotopaxi and the Avenue of the Volcanoes

Heading south towards the Cotopaxi province, stop off at the Antisana Ecological Reserve . This enormous protected area spans a whopping 460 square miles and is home to a diverse range of awesome wildlife.

In addition, you can marvel at, and photograph the wonderful landscape around the Antisana volcano and beautiful Mica Lake. 

Then, head 12,000 feet above sea level to Cotopaxi for your overnight stay ahead of the treats that lay ahead.

On day six, head to the Avenue of the Volcanoes, home to some of the most diverse scenery you’ll meet on this itinerary, with wild grasses intermingling with volcanoes, including the world’s highest active volcano, Cotopaxi. Trust me, this is the experience of a lifetime, especially if you’re on horseback !

Chilcabamba Lodge

Day 7: Santa Cruz Island

Fly out to Baltra, around 150 metres from the northern part of Santa Cruz Island and take the ferry across the small channel. If you’re lucky, you may end up travelling aboard The Beagle , named after Darwin’s famous ship.

Here, you’ll meet your first of the famous animals of the Galapagos, with flamingos, iguanas and the famous bright red Sally light-foot crabs. Take some time to relax on the gorgeous white-sandy beaches ahead of your island-hopping adventures.

El Arco de Darwin

Day 8: Darwin Bay

Take a day trip across to Genovesa Island and head to Prince Philip’s steps. Try and get up as early as you can to make the most of the visit, since you can see a stunning array of birds as you walk here, from black frigate birds recognisable with their inflated bright red pouches, to short-eared owls.

If you enjoy going underwater, take a snorkel trip where you may come face to face with dolphins and sharks, before heading to Darwin Bay after lunch when the local wildlife is at its most plentiful. 

Day 9: Santiago Island

Santiago Island is the next stop on this island-hopping part of the itinerary. Originally called James Island in honour of King James II of England, the island’s name has changed, but one of its main attractions, James Bay, hasn’t.

This black-sand beach forced from volcanic ash has some incredible tidal pools to witness, along with a plethora of sea birds and jet black iguanas the like of which I’ve never seen before. This is the best spot to watch sea lions as well, just a few yards from where you stand – yet another awesome addition to your Insta feed.

Day 10: Fernandina Island

Leave your Santiago Island base to head across to the island of Fernandina Island and its lava-based landscape that’s dotted with marine iguanas in their dozens. You may have to squint to see them as they blend in nicely with the ground, suntanning themselves.

Then go climbing over the gorgeous lava flows at Punta Moreno to go birdwatching.

Once you’re ready to leave, head to Isabela Island, your base for the next few days.

Day 11 to 13: Isabela Island

You have three full days to explore the glorious surroundings of Isabela Island, and believe us, you’ll need every minute.

Punta Vincente Roca are stunning rocky outcrops home to penguins, seals, and the blue-footed booby, then head out for a snorkel to see the sea lions and penguins too. Then wander and check out graffiti left by whalers, pirates, and other explorers.

Then check out the giant tortoise breeding centre that preserves some of the most famous residents in the Galapagos before visiting the Sierra Negra volcano, and the second largest volcanic crater in the world.

The town of Puerto Ayora is a great spot to go souvenir shopping and experience some excellent Galapagos food.

Hotel Galapagos by Bar de Beto

Day 14: Quito and home

On your final day, head back to Quito and spend time ticking off anything you missed out on from your first couple of days on this itinerary before travelling to the airport and returning home.

Which is your favourite 2 week South America itinerary?

Discover More South America Guides

• Things to do in South America – The Ultimate South America Bucket List
• Torres del Paine W Trek Patagonia: A Step by Step Guide
• 12 Extraordinary Things to Do in Chile
• Stunning Places to Visit in South America

Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest

I’m Julianna Barnaby - a professional travel writer and geek extraordinaire. I started The Discoveries Of to help you to discover the best of new destinations from around the world.

Discovering new places is a thrill - whether it’s close to home, a new country or continent, I write to help you explore more and explore differently.

Related Posts

Best Places to Visit in South America: 30 Unmissable Destinations

15 Best Hotels in Chile: Luxury and Boutique Stays for Your Trip

Cerro Toco Hike: How to Summit a (Dormant) Volcano in the Atacama Desert

8 Brilliant National Parks in Patagonia: Must-Visit Parks in South America

24 comments.

Amazing itineraries for South America. I still haven’t been anywhere yet in SA so this will be super helpful when I finally get there! I think the Patagonia trip may be towards the top of my list! Thanks for taking the time to write these.

Thanks Mike. Just can’t get enough of South America – you’ll be totally blown away by Patagonia. Always happy to help with tips and advice!

I have only visited Chile on the list but I absolutely fell in love and I can’t wait to visit the other countries on your list. What was your favorite?

I think it’s a close call between Chile and Argentina. The hiking and sceneries in both are just astounding!

I can’t wait to see South America! Has always been a passion of mine (and I’ve never even been there haha!) Thanks for the awesome tips and plans, your photos are amazing!

So glad we’ve helped inspire your travels! Totally should go!

Amazing itineraries! I would love to visit Brazil soon, will definitely reach out the next time I plan a South American trip — you know your stuff! x

Please do – always more than happy to help!

Omg your pictures are ridiculous! Need to go to this part of the world. Saving this post for later as reference!

Hate to pick favourites but it’s totally my favourite travel destination overall. Enjoy if you do go!

These pictures are giving me some serious wanderlust! I’ve never been to South America but some of these places have been on my radar for ages e.g. Patagonia. Loved these sample itineraries, great post!

Thank you so much Helena – hope you find them useful when you do go!

Incredible photos! I will be travelling to South America for the first time in early 2018 so this is a great resource! Bookmarked for later 🙂

Thanks Melissa – you are going to have such a great time – I’ve been so many times and can’t stop going back. Shout up if you have any questions or need tips – plus we’ve written loads of South America articles too.

Great post! I love how you have group different areas according to specific interests. South America is such and vast and rich continent that sometimes it’s hard to choose where to go first. In my case, I still have not been to the Amazon; so that would definitely be my next adventure.

Thanks – I’ve always found it really difficult to pick where to go on shorter trips so thought doing it that way would help people out! Always more adventures to have.

Great article,I love it.Thanks for sharing this article with us.

Really glad you enjoyed it – hope that you find it useful.

Thank you, Julianna! My husband and I would love to visit Patagonia, Machu Picchu, and have a couple of beach and historic city days. I’d love your thoughts to see if that could be doable in 2.5 weeks, while still being relaxing?

Hi Kate – really glad that you liked the article. You’re going to have such a great time! I would say that 2.5 weeks is going to be relatively tight to head to Patagonia, Machu Picchu, explore both and still have time to head to the beach (are you thinking a beach in Chile/ Peru?) and any city other than Cusco. You can do it if you take flights, but I don’t think that it will be that relaxing. Perhaps you could spend a week and a half exploring Patagonia, fly up to Cusco and spend a few days there before going to Machu Picchu on the train (spending a night in Machu Pichu Pueblo)? I’m actually starting to do one-off custom itineraries for South America – drop me an email on [email protected] if you’re interested.

I read your 2 week itinerary article and loved so many of your suggestions. You had mentioned that you are now doing one-off for a custom plan. I would be interested in this! My son will be in Buenos Aires attending school and I plan to meet him on July 10th. We will then travel for the next 2 1/2 weeks. I have been studying our options but honestly on overload with all the choices and the distances. I am really what to make the most of out time.

We love nature, hiking, kayaking, beaching, adventure and sight seeing. For sure…. I would like to include Machu Picchu and the Galapagos….and possibly the Iguarza falls.

Please let me know if you are available? Where are you located? I am in Dallas Texas.

Thanks Carol Stone

Hi Carol, Thanks for getting in touch – very glad to hear that you found the itineraries useful. Unfortunately, I’m no longer doing custom South America itineraries but here are a few tips to help you along the way. I think most importantly, you want to focus on a few destinations that preferably are quite easy to travel between – the distances are far and even when you fly, it can take a lot of transit time getting from a to b (Machu Picchu being the perfect example). I’d say if you go to Machu Picchu and the Galapagos you will probably have to skip Iguazu and instead focus on Peru/ Ecuador. The first time I travelled in South America, I tried to cram way too much into a short period and ended up spending a lot of time in transit – I’d always recommend going to fewer places and seeing more in each of them. I hope that you have a wonderful trip. All the best,

In 2011 I visited Colombia with my two children. We enjoyed visiting the Caribbean coastline and old town of Cartagena. Then in 2012 we went back to South America for a longer trip. We had time in Argentina, Chile, Brazil and Uruguay. One of the best things was seeing the tropical birds.

So glad to hear it Maxine – there’s so much biodiversity across the continent – absolutely incredible to see.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Follow me on Instagram for travel inspiration, tips, and guides.

Deals of the Week   European Long Weekends   Up to 50% OFF

2 Week Central America Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 2 week Central America tour with TourRadar. Choose from 85 trips with 578 customer reviews, that range from 11 up to 14 days.

Filters applied

85 central america 14 days tour packages with 578 reviews.

• Christmas & New Year

Costa Rica Wildlife Exploration

Great communication, professional high quality on-time transfers, good selection of activities and locations to visit, all accommodations were quality except for one (Rancho Corcovado Hotel was terrible). All guided activities were excellent except for one (Night Walk - Monteverde Cloud Forest).The company that provided the service was not professional. Overall I would highly recommend Green World Adventures to manage my wildlife adventure holiday - specify all rooms must have AC and plan on arranging some of your own local activities. Accommodations, guided activities and transportation were clean, safe, professional and enjoyable. The people of Costa Rica are friendly and welcoming and their country is beautiful - go have your own adventure!

• In-depth Cultural
• Volunteering

Volunteer in Costa Rica

Cycle Nicaragua to the Panama Canal

As mentioned previously this was an ambitious itinerary. Chris the leader made it work, so I feel very grateful to him for this. It was just brilliant to see 3 very different countries in Central America on 2 wheels on a two week trip.

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

San Jose San Salvador Antigua

Basic Costa Rica: Coastlines & Cloud Forests

It was one of the best trip I ever done so amazing I recommend it to everyone you have some free time to do what you feel like doing , my guide was a sweet heart! Costa Rica is so [expletives removed] amazing

Costa Rica Coast to Coast Ride

Mexico, Belize & Guatemala Adventure 14D/13N (from Cancun)

Some transport & accommodation issues, but the Bamba Travel team responded & actioned quickly.

Customized Honduras Adventure with Daily Departure & Private Guide

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

• Jungle Trekking

Family Costa Rica Rainforest and Wildlife Adventure

All good, everyone had a great time and the whole package was great. One minor comment, and perhaps this is actually about CR itself, but none of the places we ate at seemed to do much in the way of kids portions. So, we seemed to waste a lot of food!

Explore Costa Rica National Geographic Journeys

Esteban Rojes was a very good tour guide. I appreciate getting to see 4 different areas. The home visist was wonderful.

Family Belize Wildlife Adventure

Guatemala, Belize & Mexico Adventure 14D/13N (from Guatemala City)

Honduras Exploration 14Days/13Nights

Cycle Costa Rica

• Sightseeing

Full Costa Rica Explorer 14D/13N

What people love about 2 week central america tours.

Great group of people on the tour. Josie was the best CEO!! Thank you!

• 10 Best Solo Adventure Holidays 2024/2025
• 10 Best Luxury Honeymoon Tours & Packages 2024/2025

• Manage Account

Maggie Rogers Announces North American Arena Tour Dates

The run will support her third studio album, 'Don't Forget Me.'

By Rania Aniftos

Rania Aniftos

• Share this article on Facebook
• Share this article on Twitter
• Share this article on Flipboard
• Share this article on Pinit
• + additional share options added
• Share this article on Reddit
• Share this article on Linkedin
• Share this article on Whatsapp
• Share this article on Email
• Print this article
• Share this article on Comment
• Share this article on Tumblr

Maggie Rogers is heading back on the road, this time in arenas.

The star announced on Thursday (April 11) her first-ever arena tour , dubbed the Don’t Forget Me Tour Part II, to celebrate the release of her third studio album, Don’t Forget Me . The Live Nation-produced outing will kick off on Oct. 9 at Moody Center in Austin, Texas, before it hits cities like Philadelphia, Boston, New York City, Chicago, Seattle and more before wrapping up on November 2 in Los Angeles, Calif. Ryan Beatty will join Rogers as the opening act on her fall tour dates.

Enrique Iglesias' 'Final, Vol. 2' Debuts in Top 10 on Latin Pop Albums Chart

Maggie rogers.

See latest videos, charts and news

Trending on Billboard

“On the last album,  Surrender , I decided to go old school and sell tickets in-person in an effort to reduce fees, combat bots and get tickets directly into the hands of fans,” the singer explained in a press statement. “That process was so fun, this year I’m hosting ‘Box Office Week,’ where I’ve set some special prices for fans who want to come purchase tickets in person.”

See the full list of Box Office shows and Don’t Forget Me Tour Part II dates below. For ticket purchasing information, refer to Rogers’ website here .

Box Office Week/Release Shows 04-13 New York, NY – Irving Plaza         04-14 Philadelphia, PA – Theatre of Living Arts/The Fillmore      04-16 Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club 04-19 Chicago, IL – House of Blues                        

Don’t Forget Me Tour Part II 10-09 Austin, TX – Moody Center 10-15 Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center 10-17 Boston, MA – TD Garden 10-19 New York, NY – Madison Square Garden 10-22 Toronto, Ontario – Coca-Cola Coliseum 10-24 Chicago, IL – United Center 10-25 Minneapolis, MN – Target Center 10-29 Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena 10-30 Portland, OR – Moda Center 11-01 San Francisco, CA – Chase Center 11-02 Inglewood, CA – Kia Forum

Get weekly rundowns straight to your inbox

Want to know what everyone in the music business is talking about?

Get in the know on.

Billboard is a part of Penske Media Corporation. © 2024 Billboard Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.

optional screen reader

Charts expand charts menu.

• Billboard Hot 100™
• Billboard 200™
• Hits Of The World™
• TikTok Billboard Top 50
• Song Breaker
• Year-End Charts
• Decade-End Charts

Music Expand music menu

• R&B/Hip-Hop

Culture Expand culture menu

Media expand media menu, business expand business menu.

• Business News
• Record Labels
• View All Pro

Pro Tools Expand pro-tools menu

• Songwriters & Producers
• Artist Index
• Royalty Calculator
• Market Watch
• Industry Events Calendar

Billboard Español Expand billboard-espanol menu

• Cultura y Entretenimiento

Honda Music Expand honda-music menu

When is the next total solar eclipse in the US after 2024 and what is its path? What to know

The highly anticipated 2024 total solar eclipse will cross North America on Monday , giving millions of sky-gazers the chance to see a rare cosmic event that won't be viewable again for 20 years.

The eclipse's  path of totality  will travel over a portion of northern Mexico before entering the U.S. It then it will cross 13 states  from Texas to Maine, where the spectacle is expected to attract huge crowds.

If you aren't lucky enough to be in the path of totality this time around, you will have another chance - you'll just have to wait until the 2040s.

Here's what we know about the next total solar eclipse to cross over the U.S.

Eclipse playlist: Fans return to Bonnie Tyler's 'Total Eclipse of the Heart' ahead of total solar eclipse

When is the next total solar eclipse visible from the U.S.?

It will be 20 years before there's a chance to  witness a total solar eclipse  in the United States again.

According to NASA, after Monday's total solar  eclipse , the next one viewable from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

2044 total solar eclipse path of totality

Unfortunately, the 2044 total  solar eclipse  won't have the broad reach across the U.S. as the 2024 eclipse.

The path of totality during the 2044 eclipse will only touch three states, according to the Planetary Society, a nonprofit involved in research, public outreach, and political space advocacy.

The eclipse will begin in Greenland, sweep through Canada and end around sunset in Montana, North Dakota and South Dakota.

Pets and the eclipse: Will my pets be safe during the April 2024 solar eclipse? What experts say.

2045 solar eclipse

While the 2044 total eclipse will only touch three states, a 2045 eclipse will have a more robust path across the U.S.

Expected to occur on Saturday, Aug. 12, 2045, this solar eclipse will trace a path of totality over California, Nevada, Utah, Colorado, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Kansas, Texas, Arkansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia.

A partial solar eclipse will also be viewable in 35 other states, according to National Eclipse.com

What is a total solar eclipse?

Any celestial object like a moon or a planet that passes between two other bodies can create  an eclipse  by obscuring the view of objects like the sun.

In the event of a solar eclipse, the moon comes in between the Earth and the sun, blocking its light from reaching a small part of our planet. Partial eclipses, when some part of the sun remains visible, are the most common, making total eclipses a rare sight to behold.

Total eclipses can lead to a period of darkness lasting for several minutes, during which time nocturnal animals stir while confused birds and insects may fall silent, NASA says.

When a solar eclipse reaches totality, people are able to see the sun’s outer atmosphere called the corona, which is usually obscured by the sun's bright surface. This offers scientists an uncommon opportunity  to study the corona .

Totality also offers spectators a chance to gaze upon the spectacular sight with the naked eye, though  proper  safety  glasses  are still required for the rest of the time.

What states are on the 2024 eclipse path of totality?

Mexico's Pacific coast will be the first location in continental North America to experience totality, which is expected to occur at about 11:07 a.m. PDT,  according to NASA .

As the moon's shadow will northeast, totality in the U.S. will begin in Texas at 1:27 p.m. CDT. The path will then cut diagonally across the country, traveling through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont and New Hampshire.

The eclipse's path is expected to end in Maine at 3:35 p.m. EDT before visiting the maritime provinces of Canada, according to estimates.

See  interactive maps of the 2024 path .

Contributing: Doyle Rice, Ramon Padilla & Janet Loehrke, USA TODAY

Charging elephant kills an American woman on 'bucket list trip' in Zambia

An American woman who was on what she had called her "last big trip" was killed when a charging elephant flipped over the car she was traveling in at a national park in Zambia .

The “aggressive” creature buffeted the vehicle carrying six tourists and a guide, tour operator Wilderness said in a statement Tuesday. It said the 79-year-old victim died after Saturday's incident on a game drive at the Kafue National Park in western Zambia.

The company did not name the victim but Rona Wells, her daughter, identified her as Gail Mattson in a post on Facebook. She said her mother died in a “tragic accident while on her dream adventure.”

A video circulating on social media apparently showing the incident shows a large elephant running toward a car, which slows down as the animal approaches its left side. The elephant then flips the vehicle over and the passengers can be heard gasping as the car rolls over.

NBC News does not know the condition or identity of the person who filmed the video.

Photos shared online of the car, which is emblazoned with the logo of the tour operator, show it tipped onto its side after the incident, with a deep dent in two of its side doors.

Wilderness, which describes itself as a “leading conservation and hospitality company” operating in eight African countries, including Zambia, did not respond to NBC News when asked to confirm the authenticity of the video and the photos.

But the tour operator’s CEO, Keith Vincent, said in the statement that the company’s “guides are all extremely well trained and experienced.”

"Sadly in this instance the terrain and vegetation was such that the guide’s route became blocked and he could not move the vehicle out of harm’s way quickly enough,” he added.

Another woman was also injured in the incident and taken to a medical facility in South Africa, the Wilderness statement said, adding that four others were treated for minor injuries.

“It’s extremely rare to see an elephant that irate,” Marlon du Toit, a wildlife photographer and safari guide, told the “TODAY” show Thursday. “Across Africa, there are thousands and thousands of guests on safari on a daily basis with no negative consequences.”

The exact cause of Mattson’s death was unclear, but the company said her body would be repatriated to her family in the United States with the support of local Zambian authorities and the U.S. Embassy in the capital, Lusaka.

“This is a tragic event and we extend our deepest condolences to the family of the guest who died,” the statement added.

NBC News has reached out to Mattson's family for further comment.

Kafue National Park is Zambia’s largest and oldest national park, according to its website, and spans an area of more than 8,000 square miles. Vast regions of the park remain unexplored and the website says it is home to a variety of untamed wildlife.

A 'bucket list trip'

Mattson spent her winters in Sun City West, Arizona, playing bridge and cards, but during the rest of the year, she "travels all over the world," her friend Brenda Biggs told NBC News. Biggs and her husband, John Longabauth, became friends with Mattson when they moved to the area 6 ½ years ago.

Longabauth said Mattson spoke to the couple about her upcoming safari trip about two weeks ago, and called it "one of her bucket list trips." He said she was very excited for the adventure.

Before she left, she gave the couple concert tickets for a show that would happen while she was traveling, telling them to enjoy the concert and "I'll see you when I get back," Longabauth recalled of the conversation.

Biggs said Mattson, who was almost 80 years old, told her that the African safari was her "my last big trip." She said Mattson was "super excited because it was like the culmination of all the trips that she had gone on."

An avid traveler, Mattson took to trips to Europe and Asia, Longabauth recalled, noting that she might have been to South America, too.

Biggs called her friend "flamboyant," "friendly" and "fabulous" and said she loved bright colors. Mattson had taken over Biggs’ job as the event planner for their 200-member bridge club, she said.

"Gail was one of the more up people you'd ever want to meet," Longabauth said. "She was always up. She was always optimistic. She was always seeing the good side of everybody."

Yuliya Talmazan is a reporter for NBC News Digital, based in London.

Rebecca Cohen is a breaking news reporter for NBC News.

Before Luke Combs plays in front of the 'best fans' for his Milwaukee concerts this week, he tours Miller Brewery and even shotguns a beer

Before Luke Combs kicks off his "Growin' Up and Gettin' Old" tour in Milwaukee this week, he went on another kind of tour. One that is quintessentially Brew City.

Combs, one of country music's biggest stars, is playing two shows at American Family Field : One Friday and another Saturday. But ahead of that, he took a tour of the Miller Brewery . And, we got to tag along.

Yes, he was every bit as kindhearted, down-to-earth and genuine as he seems. And yes, he shotgunned a beer just like he does on stage. Except this time, he was hanging out on a brewhouse rooftop with the iconic giant red Miller sign and the Milwaukee Brewers' ballpark as his backdrop.

Not only did Combs — a longtime Miller Lite fan and years-long partner — see where the magic happens, he also checked out the specialty packaging on cases and cans that's coming out in honor of his blockbuster tour.

"It's just surreal, you know?" Combs told the Journal Sentinel. "I feel like I get to live so many amazing, surreal moments. And, I'm really thankful for that for sure. It's crazy. It's crazy."

Here's what we learned about Combs' tour and what he got into on the Miller tour. And, how about his eight Academy of Country Music Awards nominations that were announced earlier this week? We asked him about those, too.

Luke Combs talks about his 'Growin' Up and Gettin' Old' tour and why he's kicking it off in the Midwest

A or A+ shows don't cut it for Combs. He's shooting for A++.

"I try to do everything I can do to take care of my voice, take care of myself, make sure that we're doing everything we can," Combs said. "People that come are the only reason we get to do what we do. Putting on an A++ show is really important to me."

About to embark on his 25-date stadium tour, he's excited — and "a little nervous."

"You feel like you're standing at the bottom of a mountain and you're looking at the top a little bit," he said.

But after last year's "Luke Combs World Tour," he said he feels more prepared for what's ahead of him.

"We've played everywhere all over the world," Combs said. "But, the Midwest, it feels like home to me. So, good place to start it."

Combs, who grew up in North Carolina, hadn't been anywhere close to Milwaukee when he started his music career — his first plane ride came at age 25. But, he remembers his earlier stops up here fondly.

He opened for Blake Shelton at Summerfest in 2018 and made an appearance at Farm Aid at Alpine Valley Music Theatre in 2019.

"The Midwest is like the best fans in the world," Combs said. "I mean, honestly. People probably say that all the time."

But, that doesn't mean pulling out of the driveway Tuesday night wasn't hard after the "amazing" time he spent with his "awesome" wife Nicole and their two sons — Tex and Beau — these past few months. Fortunately, he won't have to miss his other half too long. She'll be headed up this way this weekend.

What will always make it onto Combs' setlist this time around? "The songs that people would expect," Combs shared.

"Playing all the hits," he said. "That's why people are there, and I want to give them what they want."

But, each night of the tour will have a different vibe.

Combs' opening acts Friday — in the order they'll hit the stage — are the Wilder Blue, Charles Wesley Godwin and Cody Jinks.

"Friday's more in the Americana, singer-songwriter world," Combs said. "So, our set reflects that a little bit. But, obviously, still playing all the hits."

Saturday's openers will be Colby Acuff, Drew Parker, Mitchell Tenpenny and Jordan Davis.

"Saturday night is more mainstream, Top 40 country stuff, which is what I do, really," Combs said.

Combs loves watching Jinks and Davis perform — they keep him honest, he said — and he knows they're going to kick some you know what.

The first opener will start at 5:45 p.m. Friday and Saturday, with gates opening at 5 p.m.

The parking lots will open at 3 p.m. Friday and 2:30 p.m. Saturday. Tailgating will be permitted. Give yourself plenty of time to drive in and get through security.

There also will be a "Bootleggers Tailgate Party" at 3 p.m. Saturday with two up-and-comers picked by Combs and Nashville-based concert series Whiskey Jam: Ryan Larkins and Graham Barham. It'll take place at Am Fam Field's Third Base Plaza, and will be free to attend for Combs concert ticketholders, with food and drinks available to purchase.

Luke Combs' love for Miller Lite and his visit to Miller Brewery

After getting into Milwaukee Wednesday morning, Combs hung out at the Brewers stadium for a couple of hours, worked out, then was off to the Miller Brewery.

How long has Combs been a fan of Miller Lite? "Forever, probably."

"My dad's been drinking it for a long time," Combs said. "It was always around the house."

If his music career never worked out, he said, he would still be sporting a Columbia fishing shirt and drinking a Miller Lite somewhere in the world.

"That's what I would be doing anyways," he said. "So, I really wanted to go after things that I was already passionate about that felt natural and authentic to me. So, I'm very thankful for (Molson Coors) being receptive to have me on board. I feel super lucky."

Sporting a Brewers Barrelman hat, Combs and his team walked into a conference room on the brewery's complex Wednesday. He was met by a small group of longtime brewery employees and other Molson Coors staffers. The beer cases and cans with his new specialty packaging were displayed on tables.

The design features a ribbon that says "Beer Never Broke My Heart" wrapped in between the tuning pegs of a guitar. Combs' name is at the top of the headstock.

After everyone went around the room introducing themselves, they were instructed to suit up in PPE — yellow safety vests, glasses, hard hats, toe caps and headsets.

On Combs' VIP tour of the brewery, he got a first-hand — and at times, hands-on — look at the operations with facts and history lessons along the way.

The first stop was a packaging plant, where Combs met machinist Jeff Malecki who has "But they ain't seen us together" from Combs' song "Forever After All" tattooed across his arm.

The two shook hands and got a picture together. That would become a reoccurring scene throughout Combs' visit.

It seemed like every employee who crossed paths with Combs received a handshake. And, if they wanted a photo or autograph, they got those, too, without any hesitation.

In the warehouse, Combs saw cases with the specialty packaging sliding out of a machine — he pulled his phone out to document that — and stacks of those cases getting carried off on a pallet via forklift.

At one point, Combs stood in front of what looked like a mountain of the cases. "Get this one," he said to a photographer as he hugged the cases as far as his arms would stretch.

Later, he'd get to snag one of the cans right off of a quick-moving line.

He got a taste of that and a few different brewery roles, including one that involved flipping a cardboard box filled with unconstructed cases into place. A few cases snuck out the back, but not too shabby for a first-timer.

"Thanks for letting me do that," Combs said to the workers as he shook their hands. "Thanks for letting me be in the way."

Combs also tried his hand at adding hops, one of which was liquid. "Have y'all seen 'Superbad'?" Combs asked with a bucket of hops in hand.

It reminded him of the scene when McLovin was trying to buy booze at a liquor store and said to the cashier: "You know, I heard they recently decided to add more hops to it."

Toward the conclusion of the tour, Combs said he had a "truly amazing" time. But, his favorite part had to be the grand finale.

He got to go up on a brewhouse rooftop with striking views of the city, the home of the Brewers and that big red Miller sign.

Up there is where he shotgunned a beer in under 5 seconds, and had the honor of sampling an exclusive maturation stock that not many get to try.

"To be standing up here is really a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity," Combs said.

How about those eight ACM Awards nominations

The 59th Academy of Country Music Awards nominations were announced earlier this week. Combs leads the nominations with eight , including entertainer of the year, male artist of the year, album of the year, song of the year, single of the year and music event of the year.

"It's really awesome," he said. "Always surprising, I think ... In a lot of ways, it feels like I've been doing this a lifetime. And, in a lot of ways, I feel like I've been doing it for six months. So, I feel like sometimes I'm so conflicted with knowing what to feel or think ... It's an honor. It's my wildest dreams coming true. So, I'm a very lucky guy every day."

A 2024 win via Combs nomination for entertainer of the year would clinch the coveted triple crown award, which consists of an entertainer of the year win plus wins in an act's respective new artist (male, female, duo, or group) and artist (male, female, duo or group) categories, a USA TODAY report said.

The event will air on Prime Video and the Amazon Music channel on Twitch live from Ford Center at The Star in Frisco, Texas, on May 16.

Piet Levy of the Journal Sentinel staff and USA TODAY contributed to this report.

Three key takeaways from rookie Jake Knapp and PGA Coach John Ortega's Masters prep

Jake Knapp will make his Masters debut at the 2024 tournament. (Logan Riely/Getty Images)

Change Text Size

PGA TOUR winner Jake Knapp has worked with John Ortega, the PGA of America golf professional at Costa Mesa Country Club in California, since he was just eight years old.

That swing that took social media by storm earlier this year as Knapp captured the Mexico Open at Vidanta – long, powerful, elegant – was constructed by Ortega. The duo has had a few ups and downs, but as the 29-year-old visits Augusta National Golf Club for his first Masters, Ortega will be there as his PGA Coach. How could he not be?

“I never had any kids,” Ortega says, “but he and his brother Ryan are like my kids.

A picture of Coach John Ortega (left) and Jake Knapp (right) who will be at the 2024 Masters Tournament. (PGA of America/Instagram)

“I’m no schlub when it comes to teaching the swing. I’ve been doing it for 40 years. I’ll stay in the wings (at Augusta) and make sure everything looks like it should. The swing is insane. It’s a joke. It’s just so good already.”

Knapp’s story has been well-told. He won multiple times on PGA TOUR Canada but struggled in his first attempt to gain a PGA TOUR card via the Korn Ferry Tour. He went all the way back down golf’s ladder to the start, and even worked as a bouncer at a restaurant-turned-nightclub back home for a stretch so he could play and practice during the day and make some extra money at night.

Knapp has had a break-out season in 2024, finishing tied for third at the Farmers Insurance Open two weeks prior to winning in Mexico . He backed that up with a tie for fourth the next week at the Cognizant Classic in The Palm Beaches.

Alas, Masters week will mark a special one for Knapp and his team, including Ortega and his family.

Jake Knapp won the Mexico Open at Vidanta earlier this spring, with help from longtime coach Ortega.

“All I can think about is the Masters,” Knapp said in Palm Beach. “Between that place and Pebble Beach, I’ve always said I have no interest in playing the golf course or going there unless I’m playing.

“I’ve been in this game a long time, so the money (from his win in Mexico) side is great but getting into the Masters and the PGA Championship and things like that mean a lot more to me than what the winner’s check was.”

Ortega says Knapp has played four practice rounds at Augusta National already and arrived on site on Saturday. He and Knapp have worked on a strategy for certain holes so when he arrives he can get to the grounds Saturday and use the facility for “whatever extent” he is allowed. Sunday he’ll do chipping and putting.

Ortega has known Knapp for years and is excited to see him take on Augusta National.

“I’ll do as much snake-charming and suggesting as I can,” Ortega says with a smile. “I try to get him into the right frame of mind and get his chipping and putting right.

“I consider myself more of a spiritual guide.”

Knapp said after his win in Mexico that stepping on the grounds of Augusta National is going to be “surreal,” but now the week is upon him. Knapp has had to prepare for a golf course that he knows of but hasn’t competed on before.

And even though we can’t all tee it up at Augusta National, there may be some fresh venues where golfers across the U.S. are competing on this summer – whether it’s a top-tier event or a fun championship alongside some friends.

Ortega has three tips for golfers who, like Knapp, are set to tee it up at a non-familiar facility and are looking for their own success:

1. A little research goes a long way

“For the most part, look at the places (on the course) you don’t want to miss it," says Ortega. "Hit it to the spots that are more prudent. If you’re not sure of the lines you can take aggressively, be a bit more prudent and be aware of the high side and the low side of the green – you want to miss it on the low side, so when you’re chipping you’re chipping uphill and not short-siding yourself on hard chips.”

2. Know your miss

“Know what your pre-disposed miss is and minimize the impact of that miss," says Ortega. "If there is water left and the pin is cut left, you better not be aiming anywhere near the flagstick. Depending on your skill level you can move your (aiming) spot closer to the hole. You have to know about your miss and how much it’s expressing itself on any particular day either through the round or during the warmup.”

3. Short game success

On maximizing short-game scoring, Ortega says: “Before you play, practice your chipping and putting a ton because you’re going to be scrambling and you’re going to need to be making par putts or take advantage of birdies when you happen to hit it close. In your warm-up, hit a lot of drives and see which way it’s going so you know what to expect. Know the safety so you can put it in play. And then work on your chipping and putting because you’re going to be doing a lot of it. If you can get up and down, that’d be the best advice I could give.”

• Today's news
• Reviews and deals
• Climate change
• 2024 election
• Fall allergies
• Health news
• Mental health
• Sexual health
• Family health
• So mini ways
• Unapologetically
• Buying guides

Entertainment

• How to Watch
• My watchlist
• Stock market
• Biden economy
• Personal finance
• Stocks: most active
• Stocks: gainers
• Stocks: losers
• Trending tickers
• World indices
• US Treasury bonds
• Top mutual funds
• Highest open interest
• Highest implied volatility
• Currency converter
• Basic materials
• Communication services
• Consumer cyclical
• Consumer defensive
• Financial services
• Industrials
• Real estate
• Mutual funds
• Credit cards
• Credit card rates
• Balance transfer credit cards
• Business credit cards
• Cash back credit cards
• Rewards credit cards
• Travel credit cards
• Checking accounts
• Online checking accounts
• High-yield savings accounts
• Money market accounts
• Personal loans
• Student loans
• Car insurance
• Home buying
• Options pit
• Investment ideas
• Research reports
• Fantasy football
• Pro Pick 'Em
• College Pick 'Em
• Fantasy baseball
• Fantasy hockey
• Fantasy basketball
• Download the app
• Daily fantasy
• Scores and schedules
• GameChannel
• World Baseball Classic
• Premier League
• CONCACAF League
• Champions League
• Motorsports
• Horse racing
• Newsletters

New on Yahoo

• Privacy Dashboard

Aerosmith Announce 2024-2025 North American Farewell Tour

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

The post Aerosmith Announce 2024-2025 North American Farewell Tour appeared first on Consequence .

Aerosmith have unveiled the dates for their rescheduled North American farewell tour, taking place from September 2024 through February 2025. As was the case with the original itinerary, the “Peace Out” tour will feature support from The Black Crowes .

The legendary rock act had kicked off the tour in September 2023, but the outing only lasted three shows before singer Steven Tyler experienced a serious vocal injury. The band was forced to postpone the remaining dates indefinitely.

Get Aerosmith Tickets Here

Now, Aerosmith have announced that the rescheduled tour will launch September 20th in Pittsburgh, and run through a February 26th show in Buffalo, New York. Along the way, they’ll play Los Angeles on December 7th; a hometown New Year’s Eve show in Boston on December 31st; and New York City’s Madison Square Garden on February 23rd, among dozens of other cities.

All previously purchased tickets will be honored for the rescheduled shows, while tickets for the new dates go on sale Friday (April 12th) at 10 a.m. local time via Ticketmaster .

Fans can also check for deals or pick up tickets to sold-out Aerosmith shows via StubHub , where your purchase is 100% guaranteed through StubHub’s Fan Protect program.

The kickoff show in Pittsburgh on September 20th and the next one in Philadelphia on September 23rd are being made up despite those being two of the cities Aerosmith did get to play in 2023, perhaps acknowledging that Tyler’s voice wasn’t up to par at those concerts.

When the tour originally launched last September, Aerosmith featured a lineup of original members Tyler, guitarists Joe Perry and Brad Whitford, and bassist Tom Hamilton, along with drummer John Douglas (who’s been filling in for Joey Kramer the past few years) and keyboardist Buck Johnson. While no announcement has been made, it is assumed that the same lineup will set out this coming September.

Tyler had recently been embroiled in a lawsuit alleging the sexual assault of a minor in the 1970s, but that suit was tossed out by a judge in February.

The Black Crowes, meanwhile, recently released Happiness Bastards , their first new album in 15 years. They will be on board for all of the dates except the kickoff show in Pittsburgh, where Teddy Swims will have the honor of opening for Aerosmith.

See Aerosmith’s rescheduled farewell tour dates below.

Aerosmith 2024-2025 Tour Dates: 09/20 – Pittsburgh, PA @ PPG Paints Arena ^ 09/23 – Philadelphia, PA @ Wells Fargo Center * 09/26 – Louisville, KY @ KFC Yum! Center * 09/29 – Cleveland, OH @ Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse * 10/02 – Charlotte, NC @ Spectrum Center * 10/05 – Knoxville, TN @ Thompson Boling Arena * 10/08 – Washington, DC @ Capitol One Arena * 10/11 – Atlanta, GA @ State Farm Arena * 10/14 – St. Louis, MO @ Enterprise Center * 10/17 – Cincinnati, OH @ Heritage Bank Center * 10/20 – Nashville, TN @ Bridgestone Arena * 10/31 – Phoenix, AZ @ Footprint Center * 11/03 – San Antonio, TX @ Frost Bank Center * 11/06 – Austin, TX @ Moody Center * 11/09 – Dallas, TX @ American Airlines Center * 11/12 – Tulsa, OK @ BOK Center * 11/15 – Omaha, NE @ CHI Health Center * 11/18 – Denver, CO @ Ball Arena * 11/21 – Portland, OR @ Moda Center * 11/24 – Seattle, WA @ Climate Pledge Arena * 11/27 – Salt Lake City @ Delta Center * 11/30 – San Francisco, CA @ Chase Center * 12/04 – San Jose, CA @ SAP Center * 12/07 – Los Angeles, CA @ Kia Forum * 12/28 – Newark, NJ @ Prudential Center * 12/31 – Boston, MA @ TD Garden * 01/04 – Detroit, MI @ Little Caesars Arena * 01/07 – Toronto, ON @ ScotiaBank Arena * 01/10 – Montreal, QC @ Bell Centre * 01/13 – Columbus, OH @ Schottenstein Center * 01/16 – Indianapolis, IN @ Gainbridge Fieldhouse * 01/19 – Chicago, IL @ United Center * 01/22 – St. Paul, MN @ Xcel Energy Center * 01/25 – Kansas City, MO @ T-Mobile Center * 02/11 – Orlando, FL @ Kia Center * 02/14 – Tampa, FL @ Amalie Arena * 02/17 – Sunrise, FL @ Amerant Bank Arena * 02/20 – Raleigh, NC @ PNC Arena * 02/23 – New York, NY @ Madison Square Garden * 02/26 – Buffalo, NY @ KeyBank Center *

^ = w/ Teddy Swims * = w/ The Black Crowes

Aerosmith Announce 2024-2025 North American Farewell Tour Spencer Kaufman

Popular Posts

System of a Down and Deftones to Headline Concert in Golden Gate Park

Madonna Calls Out Production Staff at Miami Concert For Blasting AC

100 Greatest Bassists of All Time

J. Cole Comes Out as a Transphobic Loser on New Song “Pi”

Heart Perform "Barracuda" on Fallon: Watch

Orville Peck Gets Together with Willie Nelson for "Cowboys Are Frequently Secretly Fond of Each Other": Stream

Subscribe to Consequence’s email digest and get the latest breaking news in music, film, and television, tour updates, access to exclusive giveaways, and more straight to your inbox.

Recommended Stories

Tom brady cracks open door to possible return from retirement: 'i'm not opposed to it'.

Would Tom Brady really come back again?

SMU suspends CB Teddy Knox as he faces felony charges from multi-vehicle crash involving Chiefs' Rashee Rice

Knox is facing the same charges as Rice, who turned himself into police Thursday.

2025 GMC Yukon AT4 teased, will likely follow 2025 Suburban template

2025 GMC Yukon AT4 teased, the SUV will likely follow 2025 Chevy Suburban template. GMC could add special treats for the Denali and AT4 anniversaries.

Chiefs WR Rashee Rice reportedly turns himself into police 9 days after multi-vehicle crash in Dallas

Rice turned himself in nearly two weeks after the crash.

'Sasquatch Sunset' is so relentlessly gross that people are walking out of screenings. Star Jesse Eisenberg says the film was a ‘labor of love.’

“There are so many movies made for people who like typical things. This is not that," the film's star told Yahoo Entertainment.

Space Force tees up new 'responsive space' mission from Rocket Lab and True Anomaly

Rocket Lab and True Anomaly will attempt to deliver and operate space hardware for the military under intentionally tight time frames, as part of the Space Force’s push to solicit "tactically responsive" space capabilities from commercial companies. Each company will design and build a satellite capable of rendezvousing with other spacecraft in orbit at close proximity, as well as command and control centers for the mission. As part of Rocket Lab’s $32 million contract, it will also launch the satellite with its Electron rocket.

2024 NBA Awards: Official picks for MVP, Rookie of the Year and every individual honor

With the 2023-24 NBA season coming to an end, here's one voter's award ballot, breaking down the top candidates — and declaring the winners.

Big bank profits likely fell in first quarter but investors don't seem worried

Profits at big banks are not expected to dazzle when first-quarter results are released in coming days, but investors are more focused on the rest of 2024.

Virtual physical therapist Hinge Health lays off 10% of its workforce

Hinge Health, a nine-year-old company that offers a digital solution to treat chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, cut approximately 10% of its workforce on Thursday, TechCrunch has exclusively learned. The company said people who were laid off worked across various functions; according to employees posting on LinkedIn, some were engineers. Before the layoffs, Hinge had more than 1,700 employees, according to a LinkedIn estimate.

Here's what to do with your retirement savings when markets are shaky

Should you rebalance your portfolio in a down market? It can be tempting to make big moves when the markets get shaky. But experts advise caution.