Essential East & West Coast Explorer - 13 Days

Welcome to the USA. Your group adventure begins in Boston. If you arrive early, you may choose to head out on an optional whale-watching trip off Cape Cod, where humpback whales and other marine life feed in rich Atlantic waters.

This afternoon, we meet our Adventure Leader and travel crew for a brief orientation before heading out together. We cross the Charles River into Cambridge to explore Harvard University, the oldest university in the United States. We wander the historic campus, browse independent bookshops, and may pop into the art museum before treating ourselves to a famous Mike’s Pastry cannoli.

Back in Boston, we walk a section of the Freedom Trail, ticking off key Revolutionary landmarks, before dinner at Quincy Market or in the North End. The evening is yours. You might catch a Red Sox game at Fenway Park, join a ghost tour, or enjoy live comedy at one of Boston’s well-known clubs.

Please Note:Optional activities must be pre booked

Boston - New York. This morning, we travel to New York City. After arriving, you can grab lunch near Madison Square Garden, dining beneath the Empire State Building like a local. We then take the subway to our accommodation to drop bags before heading downtown.

We explore the Financial District, stopping by Wall Street icons like the Charging Bull and Fearless Girl, and pausing at the moving 9-11 Memorial. Next comes an adrenaline boost as we board The Beast speedboat, racing along the Hudson with incredible views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan skyline.

Crossing the river, we explore Brooklyn Heights and DUMBO, two of New York’s most photogenic neighbourhoods. We relax in Brooklyn Bridge Park and sample a slice of classic New York pizza. Tonight is free for you to explore SoHo, Chinatown, Little Italy, or dive into the bright lights of Times Square.

We start the day in Central Park, discovering one of the most filmed locations in the world, filled with famous bridges, lakes, and movie backdrops. From here, we stroll along Fifth Avenue, passing landmarks such as the Plaza Hotel and St Patrick’s Cathedral.

Next, we head up to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Centre. From the 70th floor, the 360-degree views stretch across Manhattan and beyond. As it’s Taco Tuesday, we enjoy a fun group lunch at a local taqueria.

Later, we stop by Grand Central Terminal, whether for a Magnolia Bakery cupcake or simply to admire the iconic ceiling. In the afternoon, we visit Bushwick, known for bold street art, vintage shops, and creative energy. The evening is free. You may explore Williamsburg or opt for a last-minute Broadway show.

New York - Washington DC. We travel to Washington DC, arriving in time for lunch at the legendary Ben’s Chili Bowl, a long-time local favourite. Our afternoon begins at Arlington National Cemetery, where we visit significant sites including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, JFK’s eternal flame, and Arlington House with sweeping city views.

Next, we stop at Lafayette Park for photos of the White House from the iconic viewpoint on Pennsylvania Avenue. We then detour to Georgetown to see the famous Exorcist Stairs before enjoying free time. You can explore historic streets, stroll the waterfront, shop along M Street, or take part in seasonal activities such as kayaking or ice skating.

Today we take in Washington DC’s most important landmarks on the Washington Revelations tour. Highlights include the US Capitol, Library of Congress, Washington Monument, and memorials dedicated to Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. We also visit world-class Smithsonian museums, including Air and Space, Natural History, and African American History.

For our final night on the East Coast, we celebrate together with an evening out on U Street or in the lively neighbourhood of Adams Morgan.

Washington DC - Las Vegas. This morning, we fly west to Las Vegas. After landing, you transfer to your hotel on the Strip before meeting your Adventure Leader and group at the Luxor Hotel’s Aurora Bar. We go through the plan for the days ahead and share essential tips for enjoying Vegas safely.

We then head out to experience the Strip, soaking up neon lights and high-energy atmosphere. We enjoy a group dinner at Café Hollywood before ending the evening with the iconic Bellagio Fountain Show. Later, you can explore Vegas nightlife with recommendations from our local leaders.

Las Vegas - Wiliams/Grand Canyon. We hit the road this morning, starting with a photo stop at the classic Welcome to Las Vegas sign. We then stop at Trader Joe’s to stock up on snacks before heading onto Route 66.

For lunch, you can choose a picnic at Locomotive Park in Kingman, home to historic Steam Engine 3759, or dine at the retro Mr D’z Route 66 Diner. Later, we visit Seligman, the birthplace of Route 66 and inspiration for Pixar’s Cars, soaking up its retro Americana charm.

This evening, we check into our glamping site in Williams. After a BBQ dinner at Cruiser’s Route 66 Café, we gather around the campfire for s’mores under the Arizona sky.

This morning, we visit one of the world’s great natural wonders, the Grand Canyon. We explore the South Rim, taking in the immense scale of the canyon and enjoying time on scenic walking trails. The Rim Trail is a popular option if you want a relaxed walk with unforgettable views.

In the afternoon, we regroup at Hopi House near the historic El Tovar Hotel before returning to Las Vegas. Tonight is free, with options including the Arts District, Fremont Street, museums, or unique Vegas experiences, all bookable with help from your Adventure Leader.

Las Vegas - Los Angeles. We travel by bus to Los Angeles, arriving in Santa Monica early afternoon. After checking into our hostel, you have time to explore the Third Street Promenade at your own pace. Dinner is at your choice, with local tips from your Adventure Leader.

In the evening, we regroup for a sunset walk along Santa Monica Beach, followed by a fun arcade challenge on the famous Santa Monica Pier.

We head into the heart of LA this morning, travelling to Sunset Boulevard and walking along the Hollywood Walk of Fame. After a group lunch at In-N-Out Burger, you have free time to explore museums or shop for souvenirs.

In the early evening, we hike from Griffith Park up to Griffith Observatory. Along the way, we enjoy views of the Hollywood Sign and arrive in time for sunset over the city. We return to Santa Monica as the city lights come alive.

Los Angeles - San Francisco - Yosemite. This morning, we take part in a beach volleyball lesson on Santa Monica Beach, learning the basics with a local coach. Afterwards, we head to the airport for a short flight to San Francisco.

On arrival, we travel straight to Yosemite country and settle into the Yosemite Bug Mountain Resort. This evening, we enjoy dinner together before heading outside for stargazing beneath clear mountain skies.

Yosemite - San Francisco. We travel into Yosemite National Park by YARTS bus for a full day of exploration. With our guide, we hike to Columbia Rock on the Yosemite Falls Trail, rewarded with sweeping views of the Sierra Nevada.

We stop for a picnic lunch before cooling off with a refreshing dip in the Merced River. Later, we return to the resort, collect our bags, and travel to San Francisco, stopping for dinner before checking into our hostel.

We begin our final day with a bike ride across the Golden Gate Bridge, taking in some of San Francisco’s most iconic views before returning to Pier 39.

Your tour officially ends here. If you wish, you can opt to visit Alcatraz Island for a fascinating look inside the former prison. Staying on in the city? You might ride a cable car, catch a Giants baseball game, or enjoy one last night out in San Francisco.