Western Discovery Escorted Tour

14 Nights

Los Angeles, CA

After passing Palm Springs, the next State, Arizona, Phoenix is known for its immaculate golf courses. The natural landscape is the major reason for heading this way; the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley and Bryce Canyon are all magnificent. There is a break from nature to see the entertainment capital of the world, Las Vegas, a city built in the middle of the Mojave Desert. It is then off through Death Valley with Yosemite now the major attraction as you head towards San Francisco. The National Park is a true wonder. An early start the next day allows you to reach San Francisco with time for a sightseeing tour the same day. The next full day offers a variety of things to do and see. The trip south back to Los Angeles follows the Pacific Coast with Monterey and Carmel among the places you will see before your holiday finishes back where you began in LA.

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Highlights

  • Visit Hollywood and the home of the stars who live there while in LA. The Walk of Fame and Studio visits are very popular but the Pacific coastline and its resorts are a 'must' as well.
  • Travel to San Diego, another large City that displays its economic strength. Its deep natural harbour makes it an important naval port with USS Midway now a museum open to the public
  • Take in Phoenix, Arizona, the centre of the Valley of the Sun, named because of its climate, home to great golf courses, Desert Botanical Garden, vibrant nightlife and healthy spa resorts.
  • See what the Colorado River has created over time; the Grand Canyon. The different rock colours show the layers of development and if you want a closer look, jump into a tourist helicopter.
  • Wonder at Las Vegas, a gambling centre in the Mojave Desert. The project had its detractors but today, it is certainly a great success story; casinos, hotels, world class entertainment.
  • Look up at the Sequoia Trees in Yosemite National Park in the Sierra Nevada. The Park has a museum and good tourist facilities as well as a Gallery of Ansel Adams’ black and white photographs.
  • Make sure you see San Francisco’s many famous landmarks ranging from the Golden Gate and Fisherman’s Wharf to Union Square and Alcatraz Prison, now a museum after closing in the 60s.
  • Travel the California Coastal Highway running parallel to the Ocean, covering 400 miles between San Francisco and Los Angeles. The views are spectacular with Monterey a popular stopping off place.
  • Day 1 - Los Angeles Arrival
  • Day 2 - Los Angeles - The O.C. - San Diego - Los Angeles
  • Day 3 - Los Angeles - Palm Springs - Phoenix
  • Day 4 - Phoenix - Sedona - Grand Canyon
  • Day 5 - Grand Canyon - Monument Valley - Page/Lake Powell
  • Day 6 - Page/Lake Powell - Kanab - Bryce Canyon
  • Day 7 - Bryce Canyon - Zion - Las Vegas
  • Day 8 - Las Vegas
  • Day 9 - Las Vegas - Death Valley - Mammoth Lakes
  • Day 10 - Mammoth Lakes - Yosemite - Sacramento
  • Day 11 - Sacramento - San Francisco
  • Day 12 - San Francisco
  • Day 13 - San Francisco - Monterey/Carmel - Central Coast
  • Day 14 - Central Coast - Santa Barbara - Santa Monica - Los Angeles
  • Day 15 - Los Angeles Departure
  • Additional Information

Arrive Los Angeles International Airport and transfer independently to the hotel where you will meet your Tour Director.

Holiday Inn Anaheim - Fullerton

Property Location With a stay at Holiday Inn Anaheim - Fullerton in Fullerton (Fullerton - North Orange County), you'll be minutes from Hope International University and California State University Fullerton. This hotel is within close proximity of Fullerton Arboretum and Fullerton College.

Travel south through San Juan Capistrano and San Clemente to San Diego, the second largest city in California, renowned for its year round mild weather. Following a city tour, visit picturesque Seaport Village and San Diego’s relaxing bayfront marketplace. Perhaps enjoy the opportunity for shopping. Return to Los Angeles for the evening.

Holiday Inn Anaheim - Fullerton

Property Location With a stay at Holiday Inn Anaheim - Fullerton in Fullerton (Fullerton - North Orange County), you'll be minutes from Hope International University and California State University Fullerton. This hotel is within close proximity of Fullerton Arboretum and Fullerton College.

Today your journey takes you through Palm Springs, the winter playground for Hollywood royalty, with its lively downtown and immaculately kept golf courses at the base of the rugged San Jacinto Mountains. A sea of wind turbines mark the entrance to this desert oasis. Afterwards you will pass through Indio, home to the Int’l Date Festival in the Coachella Valley.

We Ko Pa Resort and Conference Center

Discover the beauty, tranquility and culture of Arizona’s captivating Sonoran Desert at the AAA Four Diamond We-Ko-Pa Resort & Conference Center!

Travel through the Sonoran Desert, the richest, most biologically diverse desert ecosystem in the Americas. Continue to Sedona, a city situated in a unique geological area and encircled by distinctive red-rock monoliths with such names as Cathedral and Coffee Pot. Then drive through the breathtaking Oak Creek Canyon before arriving at Grand Canyon National Park. Majestic Grand Canyon National Park is one of the 7 great natural wonders of the world. Stop at the rim to fully experience this mile-deep colorful canyon’s plunging gorges, and rising spires formed by the mighty Colorado River.

Yavapai West Lodge

Yavapai Lodge is the Grand Canyon National Park's largest lodging facility, nestled within the pinyon and juniper woodlands and about a quarter mile from the South Rim. The rooms have either one king or two queen sized beds, refrigerator, and coffee maker. With modern newly renovated rooms and many services within walking distance, this is a convenient place for families.

As you journey further today, you will enter the Navajo Indian Reservation, passing the trading post of Cameron. Continue through the Painted Desert and the region of Monument Valley, an area that embodies perhaps the most iconic images of the American West. In the afternoon, enter the town of Page, situated on a mesa above the Colorado River. Evening at leisure.

Best Western Plus Lake Powell

The Best Western Plus at Lake Powell hotel in downtown Page, AZ offers charming, clean accommodations and exceptional service. It is walking distance to many local restaurants, bars, and grocery stores. Hotel is a short distance from Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Glen Canyon Dam, Horseshoe Bend, and Monument Valley.

Visit the mighty Glen Canyon Dam, the second highest concrete-arch dam in America. From here you’ll enjoy views of stunning Lake Powell, where crystal blue water laps against towering red-rock canyon walls. Enter Utah, known for the Mormon Community, pass through the town of Kanab before visiting spectacular Bryce Canyon, where a tour through a multi-colored world of sandstone spires and pinnacles will dazzle the eye. This evening, weather permitting, be sure to gaze upon the spectacular night sky filled with sparkling stars and brilliant constellations.

Best Western Plus Ruby's Inn

Ruby’s Inn is the closest lodging to Bryce Canyon National Park, Utah and is the perfect place to base your exploration of this beautiful area. We offer the finest in Accommodations, RV Park/Campground and amenities in the Bryce Canyon region. Ruby’s Inn at Bryce Canyon is also a destination in and of itself. You’ll enjoy Horseback Riding, Mountain Biking, Guided ATV Rides and Helicopter Tours, along with western experiences such as Rodeos and more.    

Travel today to Zion National Park and see the massive rock formations carved by wind, time, and the Virgin River. This afternoon experience the contrast of Las Vegas, the dazzling “Entertainment Capital of the World,” where round-the-clock shopping, nightly shows, and of course gambling are available. As we stop at the iconic Las Vegas Welcome sign, you may wish to capture a photo memory there.

Luxor Hotel & Casino Las Vegas

Known for its iconic pyramid shape, Luxor is located on the Las Vegas Strip and features a casino and live entertainment. It provides a full-service spa, 4 large pools and a hot tub.

Today is at leisure for you to enjoy the many attractions that Las Vegas has to offer. In addition to world-class shopping, bustling casinos, and Broadway-caliber shows, you might simply stroll the famous Strip to take in its amazing sights, or “shop ‘til you drop” at designer outlets.

Luxor Hotel & Casino Las Vegas

Known for its iconic pyramid shape, Luxor is located on the Las Vegas Strip and features a casino and live entertainment. It provides a full-service spa, 4 large pools and a hot tub.

Having enjoyed glamorous Las Vegas, it will be a sharp contrast this afternoon to enter the quiet and extreme environment of Death Valley. Stop at Zabriskie Point and Furnace Creek Ranch / Visitors Centre before continuing across the valley and ascending the Sierra Nevada Mountains to the alpine resort town of Mammoth Lakes*. The area gained prominence as a gold mining town in the 19th century and today is renown for the superior skiing terrain and staggeringly beautiful mountain vistas. *(If Tioga pass closed routing will be done via Fresno).

Mammoth Mountain Inn

The Mammoth Mountain Inn is part of the Mammoth Mountain Lodging Collection, distinctive properties that make up the largest collection of year-round accommodations available in Mammoth Lakes, California.

Your journey today brings you to the Tioga Pass** into the scenic wonderland of Yosemite National Park. Here, you will experience the valley floor and its splendours including the glacial-shaped granite formations of El Capitan, Half Dome, the magnificent Bridal Falls and Yosemite Falls. Overnight in nearby Sacramento.

Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Airport Natomas

Property Location With a stay at Courtyard by Marriott Sacramento Airport Natomas in Sacramento, you'll be near the airport and convenient to American River Bike Trail and Golden1Center. This hotel is within close proximity of Discovery Park and Sacramento History Museum.

Depart early this morning to arrive in San Francisco, one of the most beloved cities in America. Enjoy a comprehensive sightseeing tour before arriving at your hotel. This evening take a memorable City by Night Tour (optional).

Hilton San Francisco Union Square

This hotel is situated where everyone wants to be. Only about an hour or less from the airports, this San Francisco hotel is close to shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. It's only 14 miles from San Francisco International Airport, 20 miles from Metropolitan Oakland International and 46 miles from San Jose International Airport.

Day at leisure! Your Tour Director is on hand to assist with making your plans for the day: perhaps a cable car ride to Fisherman’s Wharf where you may enjoy a “Taste of San Francisco”: local seafood, famous sourdough breads or decadent Ghiradelli’s Chocolate. Or take a stroll by Sea Lions’ Marina to watch them frolic. Be sure to gaze across the bay to Alcatraz island where “America’s Most Wanted” such as Al Capone and ”Machine Gun” Kelly were incarcerated. Or visit Union Square for a shopping stop at Macy’s Department Store. You also may choose to embark on a wine tasting tour to Napa Valley, world renowned for its fine wineries and beautiful scenery (optional).

Hilton San Francisco Union Square

This hotel is situated where everyone wants to be. Only about an hour or less from the airports, this San Francisco hotel is close to shops, restaurants and entertainment venues. It's only 14 miles from San Francisco International Airport, 20 miles from Metropolitan Oakland International and 46 miles from San Jose International Airport.

Depart San Francisco this morning for the drive to the Monterey Peninsula, known for its magnificent homes and lovely beaches. In Monterey, visit Fisherman’s Wharf and famous Cannery Row. Then tour charming Carmel-bythe-Sea, noted for its quaint houses, upscale art galleries and unique stores. In the afternoon your tour continues through Paso Robles, home of fine wineries. Overnight in a quaint Central California Coast town.

Radisson Hotel Santa Maria

Welcome to beautiful Santa Barbara Wine Country! Radisson Hotel Santa Maria provides guests with a convenient location adjacent to Santa Maria Public Airport (SMX) and just half a mile from SR-135. Our pet-friendly Santa Maria, CA hotel also offers convenient access to nearby golf courses, Vandenberg Air Force Base and the Santa Maria Airport Business Park. Ask our knowledgeable front desk staff for tips on visiting nearby wineries like Cambria Estate Vineyards & Winery or Cottonwood Canyon Vineyard & Winery.

Journey south through the Santa Ynez valley into Santa Barbara where palm–lined walkways border white sandy beaches. Upon arrival in Los Angeles an orientation tour commences to include Hollywood, portions of Beverly Hills and Century City before arriving in Santa Monica, home to the finish line of Historic Route 66, where you may enjoy an optional lunch on the pier before arriving at your hotel.

Hilton Los Angeles Airport

Property Location With a stay at Hilton Los Angeles Airport in Los Angeles (LAX Area), you'll be close to Loyola Marymount University. This 4-star hotel is within the vicinity of Sony Pictures Studios and Venice Beach.

Your tour ends upon check out from your hotel.

Tour Inclusions:

  • Enjoy a welcome reception where you will meet your fellow travellers
  • Experience the low key coastal vibes of San Diego during day long sightseeing tour of the city
  • Discover the famed mid-century architecture of “Hollywood’s desert retreat” during a visit to Palm Springs
  • Gaze at the majesty of the Grand Canyon
  • Relive American western film history, witnessing the iconic western landscapes of Monument Valley
  • Capture the unique rock formations of  Bryce Canyon National Park
  • Enjoy leisure time for shopping, gambling,  eating, or all of the above in glitzy Las Vegas
  • Post an Instagram of yourself at the iconic  “Welcome to Las Vegas” sign
  • Traverse the lowest and driest spot within the  western hemisphere: Death Valley National Park
  • Explore the magnificent falls during a visit to majestic Yosemite National Park  (weather permitting)
  • Take in the sites of the City by the Bay, San Francisco, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Union Square and Fisherman’s Wharf
  • Journey through America’s capital of technology innovation, Silicon Valley
  • Experience the charming sites and sounds of Monterey including Cannery Row, inspiration for American author John Steinbeck
  • Discover through the picturesque scenery of California’s central coast and its rich agricultural plains
  • Enjoy a touch of Europe in the new world while visiting the Danish community of Solvang
  • Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame and find your favorite celebrity’s star
  • Get a glimpse of all the glamour Los Angeles has to offer with stops at some of its most famous spots

Optional Excursions:

  • Hop on a harbour cruise of San Diego Bay
  • Take flight over the magnificent Grand Canyon for unforgettable experience
  • Jump into a Jeep and taking an in depth tour of Monument Valley
  • Capture the intense colours and ethereal light of Antelope Canyon
  • How about a boot stompin’ dinner with country music fun at Ebenezer’s Barn in Bryce Canyon
  • Experience the glitz and glam of Las Vegas during an extensive evening tour
  • Hop on board a cable car during an extensive night tour of San Francisco and enjoy dinner tonight in the “City by the Bay”
  • Ride a bike across the Golden Gate Bridge with vast views of the San Francisco Bay
  • Enjoy a traditional lunch at world famous Bubba Gump at Santa Monica Pier the finishing line of famed route 66