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Arrive at the airport and proceed to your hotel. Los Angeles is the entertainment capital of the United States. Home to famous movie stars and the infamous landmark, the Hollywood sign, it is a city brimming with culture and happenings. This big metropolis has many regions with distinct flavors and communities.
Accommodations:
(STD) Hacienda Hotel Los Angeles Airport or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Hilton LAX or similar (1 night).
Drive toward the fashionable resort community of Palm Springs. Here date palms grow wild and natural springs have attracted visitors for years. Today, Palm Springs is known for its golf, upscale lifestyle, and the many celebrities who enjoy the luxurious amenities. Take a ride on the Aerial Tramway, a popular attraction that takes you from the desert to snow-capped mountains. This cable car ride ascends Mt. San Jacitno. At the top, there are hiking trails, mule rides, a cocktail bar and a restaurant. Moorten Botanical Garden is another interesting place to visit, proclaiming itself the “World’s First Cactarium.” The garden includes 3,000 fine examples of desert cacti and other desert plants, in a quirky Wild West setting sometimes used as a film backdrop. The Village area has a variety of restaurants, trendy shops, historic sites and annual festivals.
Accommodations:
(STD) Red Roof Inn Palm Springs or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Renaissance Esmeralda Resort or similar (1night).
Depart Palm Springs and drive toward Scottsdale. Visit Desert Botanical Garden, this garden features the world’s largest outdoor desert plant collection. Vast arrays of colorful wildflowers have been strategically placed to create a spectacular display. One of the main highlights, an informative ethno-botanical walking trail, meanders through the grounds. The trail explains the many vital ways in which plants were integrated into Native American tribal life, thus illustrating the importance of plants beyond their natural beauty. This evening visit the “Old Town” area of Scottsdale. In addition to multiple galleries and exclusive shops, here you will find excellent collection of Southwestern and Native American art and handicrafts for sale. Enjoy the regional flavors of the southwest cooking style at one of the multiple restaurants in this area.
Accommodations:
(STD) Sleep Inn Phoenix or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Scottsdale Cottonwoods Resort or similar (1 night).
Leave the Valley of the Sun behind this morning and journey toward Sedona. Begin the scenic drive through Oak Creek Canyon. See the natural water slide called Sliding Rock where visitors glide down a smooth rock surface into the water. Red rock formations surround the town of Sedona. Make a photo stop at Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock, large red sandstone formations that tower around the town. Sedona is known for its strong artistic community, eclectic shops and galleries and fantastic places to eat. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the main avenue or take a jeep tour out into the natural landscape. Continue on to Williams today and check into the Grand Canyon Railway Hotel. The hotel is situated across from the train depot and is operated by the Railway. Have a drink at Spencer’s Lounge which has a 19th century mahogany bar with a storied history. Enjoy a complimentary dinner at Max & Thelma’s Restaurant as you spend your evening in rustic Williams. Take a stroll down Route 66, which is just two blocks south of the depot. Enjoy the fresh mountain air at the 6,800 feet of elevation.
Accommodations:
(STD) & (SUP) Grand Canyon Railway Hotel or similar (2 nights).
Enjoy a buffest style breakfast at Max & Thelma’s Restaurant. Keep your eyes open, the Cataract Creek Gang has been known to frequent the restaurant in the morning. After breakfast, it it’s time for an old fashioned showdown between the Cataract Creek Gang and the Marshal. Make sure to see the other entertainment just west of the depot. All aboard! The train departs Williams for the Grand Canyon. You’ll travel the same 65-mile rail line that passengers first did more than a century ago. Enjoy the scenery as the elevation changes during the two hour journey. You will arrive at the South Rim and disembark the train. You have the option of taking a scenic motorcoach rim tour that includes lunch. If you opt not to take the rim tour, you will have three hours of leisure time to explore historic Grand Canyon Village. Most of the buildings that grace the South Rim were built by the railroad, including the El Tovar Hotel, built in 1905. Along the rim, you’ll find historic sites, places to eat and shop, and of course, breathtaking views. Relax in the comfort of your train car after seeing the Grand Canyon. The train will travel back to Williams where you will enjoy your second dinner at Max & Thelma’s Restaurant.
Enjoy breakfast at Max & Thelma’s Restaurant before departing for Lake Powell. For thousands of years, the Colorado River ran through Glen Canyon carving a tremendous canyon through the sandstone. In 1963 the Glen Canyon dam was constructed and took possession of the Colorado River, turning the natural beauty of Glen Canyon into popular Lake Powell, a body of deep blue water surrounded by red cliff walls. Guided tours are offered of the dam. You can travel to the very bottom and observe the magnitude of this structure. The guide will explain the fascinating history of the dam construction. You may wish to visit the magnificent Rainbow Bridge, the largest natural bridge in the world. The bridge has formed from erosion of the sandstone by water flowing from Navajo Mountain toward the Colorado River. Cruises on Lake Powell are also available.
Accommodations:
(STD) Best Western Lake Powell or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Lake Powell Resort or similar (1night).
Bid farewell to the panoramic views of Lake Powell and travel toward Bryce Canyon National Park. Bryce contains “amphitheatres” of colorful eroded rock formations. These spires of rock are called hoodoos. It is their uniqueness that sets Bryce apart from anywhere else. Light reflecting on the hoodoos at different times of day change the colorful scene of the park. Consider a drive to Rainbow Point. From some of the overlooks, you can see more than 100 miles on a clear day. There are a variety of walking trails in the park. Horseback riding is another popular way to see the highlights of this park.
Accommodations:
(STD) Bryce View Lodge or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Best Western Plus Bryce Canyon or similar (1night).
This morning drive through Zion National Park on the way to Las Vegas. You will be greeted by gigantic sandstone monoliths and hear the soft rush of the Virgin River. The Narrows are Zion’s famous slot canyons. These are narrow stone crevices formed with colorful stripes caused by years of water and wind erosion, the result is a hiker’s paradise. In the park and along the river there are a variety of trails and paved pathways for explorers of all skill levels. In addition, there is a complimentary shuttle system that runs throughout the park. By utilizing this, you can visit Zion’s other major attractions such as the Emerald Pools, Weeping Rock and Angels Landing. Stop at the Visitor Center for information on guided tours and park history. Continue on to Las Vegas for an overnight stay. Las Vegas has something to offer everyone. From the outrageous live shows to the excitement of casinos, the action never stops from morning to night. Stroll down Las Vegas Boulevard, also known as “the strip.” Each hotel and casino has a distinctly different theme and all are wondrous displays. Take a trip up to the top of the Stratosphere hotel tower, the tallest building west of the Mississippi River. Enjoy dinner at the Top of the World, or simply admire the view from the observation deck. Visit any of the premier hotels including Caesars Palace, The Venetian and Paris for luxury shopping. Make sure not to miss the nightly fountain show at the Bellagio Hotel.
Accommodations:
(STD) Best Western Mardi Grass or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Tropicana Hotel or similar (1night).
Leave Las Vegas behind and drive toward Death Valley. Here you will find raw and barren earth as carved by the elements. The visitor center is located at Furnace Creek and is a good starting point for seeing the park. Visit Harmony Borax Works. From 1883 to 1888 more than 20 million pounds of borax, which is used to make laundry detergent, were transported from the Harmony Borax Works. Mining continued in the area until 1928. A short trail with interpretive signs leads past the ruins of the old borax refinery and some outlying buildings. Drive along Artist Drive and stop to climb one of the many hills. From the highway, you can’t see the myriad of colors splashed on the rocks behind the foothills. At Artist Palette, interpretive signs explain the source of this splendid rainbow of colors. An overnight stay has been arranged in the area.
Accommodations:
(STD) Stove Pipe Wells or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Furnace Creek Ranch Resort or similar (1night).
Travel today toward Yosemite National Park. The striking beauty of Yosemite is due in part to the Yosemite Valley whose flat floor contrasts with nearly vertical granite walls. The granite cliffs, including the El Capitan monolith, Glacier Point, and Half Dome all tower as major waterfalls tumble over them. In addition to the Valley, Yosemite includes an extensive high-mountain wilderness of peaks, rivers, meadows, and groves of giant sequoia trees. Extensive visitor activities, facilities, and services are available. At Yosemite Village, you can visit the Valley Visitor Center and see its orientation film, publications, theater programs, and exhibits highlighting the natural and human history. Self-guiding trails are nearby. Elsewhere in Yosemite Valley, you can gaze up at the waterfalls; visit Mirror Lake/Meadow in the East Valley and the famous “Tunnel View” of Yosemite Valley at Wawona Tunnel. Continue on to Fresno for an overnight stay.
Accommodations:
(STD) Best Western Village Inn or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Yosemite View Lodge or similar (1 night).
Drive toward San Francisco this morning for a three-night stay. San Francisco is home of majestic wine country and the Golden Gate Bridge. The term “melting pot” is used to describe many American cities and towns. It is very appropriate for San Francisco. Rows of elegant houses, the famous cable cars, clusters of ethnic neighborhoods, and the colorful waterfront all add to the distinctive international flavor of the city. Today, you are free to enjoy one of the many sights and sounds of San Francisco. Visit the landmark bridge, the Golden Gate; it spans 6450 feet and links San Francisco to Marin County. Completed in 1937 at a cost of $35 million, the “Bridge That Could Not Be Built” is now a San Francisco signature visible from many points around the Bay. A visitor center, including a gift shop, is located on the San Francisco side. This evening dine in one of San Francisco’s many distinctive neighborhoods. From Union Square to the very Italian flavored North Beach, each offers its own distinctive culture and cuisine.
Accommodations:
(STD) Whitcomb Hotel or similar (3 nights).
(SUP) Pickwick Hotel or similar (3 nights).
Board the famous cable cars and visit the dramatic curves of Lombard Street, one of San Francisco’s most photographed sites. The beautifully landscaped, one-block descent from Hyde Street to Leavenworth Street, has given Lombard the title of “crookedest street in the world.” At the intersection of Hyde and Lombard, a cable car route provides spectacular views of Alcatraz, Angel Island, Coit Tower, Yerba Buena Island and the Bay Bridge. Spend some time in Golden Gate Park which offers dozens of fun things to do. Top sights are the Conservatory of Flowers and the Japanese Tea Garden. Be sure not to miss the local resident buffalo herd. This evening, explore Chinatown. Along its streets, exotic ingredients are sold, silks and jade are tendered, and wonderful native food can be found at the many restaurants.
Visit Alcatraz, a small island located in the middle of San Francisco Bay. It served as lighthouse, a military fortification, and finally as a federal prison until 1963. The rangers give excellent guided tours detailing the history and legends surrounding “The Rock.” Consider a visit to Muir Woods National Monument. This grove of coast redwoods has been protected for a century, and the amazing specimens rank among the tallest trees in the world. Some reach 252 feet, are 14 feet across, and are more than 1000 years old. Paved trails make for easy exploration and unpaved trails offer more of a challenge for a hiking enthusiast.
Depart San Francisco this morning for the luxurious drive down the Pacific Coast toward Monterey. After being swept away by the stunning Pacific coast views, spend the afternoon enjoying Monterey. Settled in 1770 as one of the first European outposts on the west coast, many of the early American Colonial buildings still stand. Monterey eventually became the sardine capital of the Western Hemisphere when the first packing plant was built in 1900. Today, the old sardine factories have been converted into quaint restaurants and boutique shops. This area called “Cannery Row” was made famous by the author John Steinbeck and still remains an amusing place to explore. Monterey Bay is a fantastic place to whale watch and tours are offered locally. Consider taking the scenic and famous 17-Mile drive up the coast. Stop at the famous Pebble Beach and enjoy the sights of luxury mansions along the coast Continue on to Santa Maria for an overnight stay.
Accommodations:
(STD) Candlewood Suites or similar (1 night).
(SUP) Marriott Fairfield Inn & Suites or similar (1 night).
Before departing Santa Maria this morning, visit one of the area’s winery. Santa Maria, along with neighboring areas, combines to create one of the nation’s largest wine-producing regions. Enjoy a tasting or a tour at one of the many wineries. Continue toward Los Angeles for the two final nights of your journey. Visit Santa Monica Pier, built in 1916, it was once known as the “finish line” of legendary Route 66. It features an aquarium, an amusement park and the famous Hippodrome building, a mix of California, Byzantine and Moorish architecture that has been featured in many films. Or, for a behind the scenes look at movie making, visit Universal Studios. Tour the sets and cast yourself in the thrilling rides, shows and attractions that bring the movies to life. In the evening, enjoy Universal City Walk, filled with restaurants and nightclubs.
Accommodations:
(STD) Figueroa Hotel or similar (2 night).
(SUP) Angeleno Hotel or similar (2 nights).
Today, explore the City of Angels. Visit the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Take a stroll along the Walk of Fame and see the names of celebrities commemorated in pink stars along the sidewalk. Visit Mann’s Chinese Theater, the best-preserved of the movie palaces from Hollywood’s golden era. Known for its celebrity hand and footprints in the forecourt, over 200 impressions are yours to discover. Drive through Beverly Hills, the most famous neighborhood in the United States and glimpse exclusive homes of celebrities. Shop the famous Rodeo Drive, where luxury retail commands the street. Have lunch in Venice Beach, home to famous Muscle Beach, where the sand and surf are secondary to the lively scene of people that inhabit the sidewalk. Or, make your way to Anaheim and visit the “Happiest place on earth.” Disneyland is home to your favorite characters like Mickey Mouse. Here you will find entertainment for the young and the young at heart. In the evening have dinner at one of the many ethnic neighborhoods and experience the distinct flavors of authentic dishes.
Depart at leisure to the Los Angeles International Airport.
Enjoy a scenic tour through the Southwest cities and National Parks including a unique train ride through the Grand Canyon. Explore Bryce, Zion, Death Valley, and Yosemite National Parks. Tour through upscale Palm Springs, historic Scottsdale and exciting Las Vegas. Visit San Francisco and have extra time here before driving through the Pacific Coast to end your journey in Los Angeles.
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