Western Wonders - 12 Days
12 days from Los Angeles to San Francisco
Tour: 8510
Countries: United States
Meals: Continental Breakfast (1) / Breakfast (2)
Tour Director: John Ploszaj
From the gorgeous national parks to the exciting cities, this western U.S. tour through California, Arizona, and Nevada features natural wonders, scenic drives, deep canyons, and sparkling waterfalls—not to mention experiencing some of the world’s most famous cities. You’ll begin in Los Angeles with guided sightseeing in the “City of Angels.” Take a drive through Hollywood and see the legendary TCL Chinese Theater, the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards, and the Walk of Fame along Hollywood Boulevard. Stroll through the historic Farmers Market, with more than 80 shops and eateries followed by a visit to Santa Monica Pier. Travel through the California desert to Palm Springs and spend the night in this desert oasis. Continue to Scottsdale in the arid Arizona climate and visit Old Town where Western storefronts create an aura of the past. Visit Sedona with its massive red-rock formations and drive through scenic Oak Creek Canyon and the San Francisco Mountains before arriving at the glorious Grand Canyon, one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World. Stroll the Grand Canyon’s South Rim and stand in awe as you look out at the stunning vistas. Cross the Mojave Desert for the bright lights of Las Vegas with free time for a show, shopping, or trying your luck in the casinos. Continue to majestic Yosemite National Park to marvel at its giant granite domes, cascading waterfalls, and lush forests. Then on to the “City by the Bay” to take in San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill, and Fisherman’s Wharf. Have free time to ride San Francisco’s iconic cable cars, visit Alcatraz Prison, the federal penitentiary that once housed Al Capone and other notorious criminals, or take an optional excursion to walk through the soaring 600-year-old redwoods of Muir Woods —the choice is yours! Breathtaking scenery, exciting cities, scenic drives, and more…this western U.S. tour is a perfect vacation for savvy, value-minded travelers.
Notes:
- On vacations that include an overnight stay in Las Vegas, at least one member of the traveling party must be 21 years of age or older.
- If you have more time, consider the 8500 which continues to Los Angeles.
Inclusions
Your Tour Includes:
• Guided city sightseeing of Los Angeles and San Francisco
• Orientation tours of Palm Springs and Las Vegas
• Entrance fees and guided sightseeing in Grand Canyon National Park & Yosemite National Park
Itinerary
DAY 1
LOS ANGELES
Welcome to Los Angeles! Your Tour Director is available from 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. to answer any questions.
After settling into your hotel, enjoy time to explore on your own. Visit nearby art museums such as The Broad or the Museum of Contemporary Art, sample the city's diverse dining scene, or simply relax by the hotel pool before your adventure begins.
DAY 2
LOS ANGELES
Begin the day with a sightseeing tour of Hollywood. See the world-famous TCL Chinese Theatre, one of the most iconic movie palaces in the United States, and the Dolby Theatre, home of the Academy Awards. Continue along Hollywood Boulevard to view the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, where thousands of stars honor achievements in film, television, music, radio, and live performance.
Visit The Original Farmers Market, a Los Angeles landmark featuring dozens of shops and eateries, then head to Santa Monica to enjoy the historic pier and views of the Pacific coastline.
The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. Your Tour Director will be happy to offer suggestions for making the most of your time in Los Angeles.
DAY 3
LOS ANGELES–PALM SPRINGS
Travel to Palm Springs, a desert resort city known for its year-round sunshine, mountain scenery, and distinctive mid-century architecture. Once a favorite retreat for Hollywood celebrities seeking relaxation away from Los Angeles, Palm Springs remains one of Southern California's most popular vacation destinations.
Enjoy time to explore the area or choose an optional ride aboard the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway. Featuring the world's largest rotating tramcar, the journey climbs more than 8,000 feet into the San Jacinto Mountains offering spectacular views of Chico Canyon and the Coachella Valley below.
DAY 4
PALM SPRINGS–SCOTTSDALE-PHOENIX
Travel through the Sonoran Desert to Old Town Scottsdale, where historic storefronts, western-inspired architecture, art galleries, and local boutiques reflect the city's blend of Old West heritage and modern Southwestern culture.
Enjoy free time to explore the unique shops, relax at a sidewalk café, discover local art, or soak up the atmosphere of one of Arizona's most popular destinations.
DAY 5
PHOENIX–SEDONA–GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK–WILLIAMS
Begin the day in Sedona, renowned for its striking red-rock formations, vibrant arts community, and spectacular desert scenery. Then travel through scenic Oak Creek Canyon, where towering cliffs and colorful rock formations line the winding route.
Continue north past the San Francisco Peaks and through ponderosa pine forests before arriving at the South Rim of Grand Canyon National Park. Take in sweeping views of one of North America's most iconic landscapes, carved by the Colorado River over millions of years.
For a different perspective, consider an optional helicopter flightseeing excursion above the canyon. Later, continue to Williams, a historic Route 66 town, for an overnight stay.
DAY 6
WILLIAMS–LAS VEGAS (Cont. B)
Travel across the vast landscapes of the Mojave Desert, passing rugged terrain dotted with Joshua trees and remnants of historic mining communities. Along the way, experience the dramatic scenery that defines the American Southwest.
Arrive in Las Vegas, the “Entertainment Capital of the World.” An orientation tour introduces the city's famous resorts, themed hotels, and iconic Las Vegas Strip.
This evening is yours to enjoy. Perhaps try your luck at the casinos, explore the city's renowned dining scene, or consider an optional evening excursion that includes dinner and Vegas! The Show, celebrating the entertainers who helped make Las Vegas famous.
DAY 7
LAS VEGAS
Enjoy a full day at leisure to experience Las Vegas your way. Explore the city's famous resorts, shop, relax by the pool, or discover the over-the-top hotels and attractions found along the Strip.
You may also choose from a variety of optional excursions, including a visit to Hoover Dam, one of America's greatest engineering achievements, or a rafting adventure through Black Canyon on the Colorado River.
DAY 8
LAS VEGAS–SELMA
Leave the bright lights of Las Vegas behind as you travel across the wide-open desert landscapes of Nevada and into California. Pass through the vast Mojave Desert before entering the fertile San Joaquin Valley, one of the most productive agricultural regions in the United States.
Continue to Selma for an overnight stay in California's Central Valley.
DAY 9
SELMA–YOSEMITE NATIONAL PARK–SONORA
This morning, enter Yosemite National Park, one of America's most celebrated natural treasures. Discover a landscape of towering granite cliffs, waterfalls, forests, and mountain valleys shaped by glaciers over millions of years.
View some of Yosemite's most iconic landmarks, including Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls, while taking in the spectacular scenery that has inspired visitors for generations.
Later, continue to Sonora for an overnight stay.
DAY 10
SONORA–SAN FRANCISCO (B)
Travel west to San Francisco, the "City by the Bay" and one of America's most iconic destinations. Famous for its hills, waterfront setting, and historic cable cars, San Francisco offers a unique blend of history, culture, and scenery.
This afternoon, enjoy included sightseeing featuring the Golden Gate Bridge, Nob Hill, and lively Fisherman's Wharf.
The evening is free to explore. Perhaps discover one of the city's distinctive neighborhoods or enjoy the innovative culinary scene that has helped make San Francisco a world-renowned food destination.
DAY 11
SAN FRANCISCO
Enjoy a full day at leisure to explore San Francisco. Visit legendary Alcatraz Island, stroll through the colorful streets of Chinatown, or ride one of the city's historic cable cars.
You may also choose from a variety of optional excursions. Walk among the towering redwoods of Muir Woods, enjoy a scenic cruise on San Francisco Bay for views of the city's skyline and waterfront, or take an e-bike ride across the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
NOTE:
Advance ticket purchases are recommended for Alcatraz Island through the National Park Service.
DAY 12
SAN FRANCISCO
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation with extra nights and explore San Francisco further.
Highlights
World Heritage Sites are designated by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for having cultural, historical, scientific or other form of significance. The sites are judged to contain cultural and natural heritage around the world considered to be of outstanding value to humanity.
The following UNESCO World Heritage Sites can be seen or visited on this vacation:
- Grand Canyon National Park
- Yosemite National Park
Hotels
Los Angeles
Westin Bonaventure
404 S. Figueroa Street Los Angeles United States
- WiFi
-
SuperiorFirst-Class
Stunning downtown hotel comprising 5 glass towers and a 6 story atrium lobby with fountains. Facilities include an outdoor pool, health club, spa and on site shopping mall. Dining faciilities include a lobby bar and bistro restaurant - The Lakeview Bistro - and a famous steakhouse on the 35th floor - LA Prime - which offers spectacular views of the downtown area. On the 34th floor is a revolving lounge and restaurant - the Bona Vista Lounge
HOTEL AMENITIES
Business Center, Fitness Room, ATM, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Luggage Storage, Pool, Gift Shop, Bar/Lounge
ROOM FEATURES
Coffee Maker, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Iron/Ironing Board, Room Service, Internet Access, Cable/SatelliteClimate Control, Complimentary Toiletries, Air Conditioning
Palm Springs
Palm Springs Courtyard
1300 Tahquitz Canyon Way Palm Springs United States
- WiFi
-
First-Class
Rid yourself of travel worries when you book at Courtyard Palm Springs, offering an oasis of comfort and convenience. With our location just a mile from Palm Springs International Airport, you can travel from your gate to guest room in a breeze. Unwind in our spacious hotel rooms and suites offering plush bedding and complimentary Wi-Fi to keep you comfortable and connected.
HOTEL AMENITIES
Business Center, Fitness Room, ATM, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Pool, Hot Tub
ROOM FEATURES
Coffee Maker, Phone, Television, Mini-bar, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Air Conditioning
Phoenix
Holiday Inn & Suites Phoenix Airport North
1515 N 44TH Street Phoenix United States
- WiFi
-
First-Class
Conveniently located within minutes from the Metro Light Rail, downtown Phoenix, Tempe and Scottsdale. Rooms feature luxurious new bedding, free Wi-Fi, Microwaves and a mini refrigerator in all rooms.
HOTEL AMENITIES
Business Center, Fitness Room, Elevator, Laundry Available, Pool, Hot Tub
ROOM FEATURES
Coffee Maker, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Iron/Ironing Board, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Air Conditioning
Williams
La Quinta Inn and Suites-Grand Canyon Area
1100 Cataract Lake Road Williams United States
- WiFi
-
SuperiorTourist-Class
Nestled in breathtaking views of the pines, this hotel features comfortable guestrooms with pillow-top mattresses, free Wi-Fi, and cable TV, outdoor pool and Jacuzzi, and fitness center.
HOTEL AMENITIES
Business Center, Fitness Room, Free WiFi, Pool, Hot Tub
ROOM FEATURES
Coffee Maker, Non-smoking Rooms, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Iron/Ironing Board, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Complimentary Toiletries, Air Conditioning
Las Vegas
Sahara Las Vegas
2535 Las Vegas Blvd South Las Vegas United States
- WiFi
-
ModerateDeluxe
HOTEL AMENITIES
Spa Services, Business Center, Fitness Room, ATM, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Pool, Gift Shop, Bar/Lounge, Hot Tub
ROOM FEATURES
Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Iron/Ironing Board, Room Service, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Climate Control, Complimentary Toiletries, Air Conditioning
Selma
Holiday Inn Selma Swan-Court
2950 Pea Soup Andersen Blvd Selma United States
- WiFi
-
SuperiorTourist-Class
HOTEL AMENITIES
Business Center, Fitness Room, ATM, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Pool, Gift Shop, Bar/Lounge, Hot Tub
ROOM FEATURES
Coffee Maker, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Iron/Ironing Board, Room Service, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Air Conditioning
Sonora
Heritage Inn Yosemite-Sonora
350 S. Washington Street Sonora United States
- WiFi
-
TouristClass
HOTEL AMENITIES
Free WiFi, Pool
ROOM FEATURES
Coffee Maker, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Mini-bar, Iron/Ironing Board, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Air Conditioning
San Francisco
Parc 55 San Francisco
55 Cyril Magnin Street San Francisco United States
- WiFi
-
SuperiorFirst-Class
HOTEL AMENITIES
Business Center, Fitness Room, ATM, Elevator, Laundry Available, Concierge desk, Restaurant On-Site, Free WiFi, Luggage Storage, Pool, Gift Shop, Bar/Lounge
ROOM FEATURES
Coffee Maker, Desk, Phone, Television, Hair Dryer, Mini-bar, Iron/Ironing Board, In-Room Safe, Room Service, Internet Access, Cable/Satellite, Climate Control, Complimentary Toiletries, Air Conditioning
Tour Cost
From US$ 2,499
*prices per person, based on double occupancy for 24 July 2026 departure