Best of the US Express image
Operated by G Adventures

Best of the US Express

From
Price on request
Duration
18 days
Countries
United States
Activity
moderate

The adventure

This whirlwind 18-day camping trip throughout the United States covers nearly every major cultural touchstone of this massive (and hugely exciting) destination. Experience the lights of NYC's Times Square, discover the Elvis fan in you at Graceland, mosey down noisy Bourbon Street in New Orleans, peer across the majesty of the Grand Canyon, and then walk down the crookedest street in the world in San Francisco, all the while camping out beneath a night sky that has had countless songs written about it. Come along and see the best of the USA the way it was meant to be seen.

At a glance

Duration
18 days
Route
New York → San Francisco
Countries
United States
Activity level
moderate
Style
Beach & Islands, Culture & History, Food & Drink, National Parks & Wilderness, Rail Journeys, Trekking & Hiking
Group size
Ask
Flights
Not included
Solo travellers
Welcome

Where you'll go

Best of the US Express image

Day by day

Explore the breathtaking rock formations and winding river of Smith Rock State Park on a sunny summer day.
Your journey through

United States

Day 1Arrival dayArrivalArrive at any time. Towering skyscrapers, flashing lights, and a pulsing energy you can’t quite escape from. First impressions matter so get to know New York City the right way; after dark with your CEO and group. Roam through the crowds, take in the sounds, the smells, and gear up for a good time in the Big Apple. Journey through the Hamilton Heights neighbourhood in Brooklyn in search of the perfect enclave to sip a cocktail, maybe two, and have some laughs with your newest adventure pals.
Arrive at any time. Towering skyscrapers, flashing lights, and a pulsing energy you can’t quite escape from. First impressions matter so get to know New York City the right way; after dark with your CEO and group. Roam through the crowds, take in the sounds, the smells, and gear up for a good time in the Big Apple. Journey through the Hamilton Heights neighbourhood in Brooklyn in search of the perfect enclave to sip a cocktail, maybe two, and have some laughs with your newest adventure pals.
Day 2Travel to the Finger Lakes regionTake a hike to explore this beautiful Finger Lakes region on foot, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or just relax by the lake. Opt to taste wine from one of the local vineyards.
Take a hike to explore this beautiful Finger Lakes region on foot, rent a kayak or paddleboard, or just relax by the lake. Opt to taste wine from one of the local vineyards.
Day 3Visit towering Taughannock FallsAn exciting adventure awaits in Niagara Falls. Feel the rushing waters of the falls taking the famous "Maid of the Mist Boat Tour." Return after darkness settles over the Niagara region and witness the Falls illuminated in a rainbow of colour!
An exciting adventure awaits in Niagara Falls. Feel the rushing waters of the falls taking the famous "Maid of the Mist Boat Tour." Return after darkness settles over the Niagara region and witness the Falls illuminated in a rainbow of colour!
Day 4Drive along Lake Erie
Drive along Lake Erie, through the city of Cleveland before continuing on to Detroit. Detroit is having a resurgence and is quickly transforming with new markets, distilleries, art galleries, and restaurants popping up. Enjoy a free evening to explore this up-and-coming destination.
Day 5Continue west to Chicago
Continue west to Chicago. There's tons to do in the Windy City – walk along the river to Millennium Park, enjoy dazzling music, and stroll the boardwalk of the Navy Pier. Opt to ride to the top of the Willis Tower, or hit the town for a night out with the group.
Day 6Enjoy a free day to explore Chicago
Enjoy a free day to explore Chicago.
Day 7Follow the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to Louisville
Follow the Kentucky Bourbon Trail to Louisville. Home of the Kentucky Derby, this city is a foodie haven filled with lively bars and farm-to-table restaurants. Enjoy a free afternoon to explore, and don't forget to indulge in some BBQ and bourbon.
Day 8Travel to the country music capital of the world
Travel to the country music capital of the world. Head out for live music, line dancing, and cowboy nightlife tonight. Keep your eyes peeled for some of country music's biggest stars.
Day 9Enjoy a free day in NashvilleNashville has so much unique culture to experience while visiting. No stay would be complete without trying some of the cities famous hot fried chicken, or visiting one of its many country bars or music museums.
Nashville has so much unique culture to experience while visiting. No stay would be complete without trying some of the cities famous hot fried chicken, or visiting one of its many country bars or music museums.
Day 10Explore the vibrant cultural and musical melting pot…In the afternoon, opt to walk in the footsteps of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll at Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland. See how the legend lived and discover videos, pictures, stage costumes, and much more. Then hear the music in Memphis, Tennessee! Explore the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, Home of Blues, and the starting point of soul. Music legends, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King, made their marks on Memphis. Opt to check out the National Civil Rights Museum, located where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated.
In the afternoon, opt to walk in the footsteps of the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll at Elvis Presley’s home, Graceland. See how the legend lived and discover videos, pictures, stage costumes, and much more. Then hear the music in Memphis, Tennessee! Explore the birthplace of Rock 'n' Roll, Home of Blues, and the starting point of soul. Music legends, including Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and B.B. King, made their marks on Memphis. Opt to check out the National Civil Rights Museum, located where Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated.
Day 11Crank up the jazz and drive…
Crank up the jazz and drive into the home of Mardi Gras. Explore the French Quarter, and join the revellers on Bourbon Street 'til the early hours.
Day 12Hop on a flight to LA
Hop on a flight to LA, and get ready to explore the highlights of the West.
Day 13Wake up in the “City of Angels” before…
Wake up in the “City of Angels” before heading inland to the desert. Don't forget to watch for celebrities on the way out of California's most glamorous city. Gear up for your visit to Joshua Tree National Park. It might be short and sweet but no less impactful. Trek amongst the boulders and famous Joshua trees and find the unexpected beauty and serenity of such a barren landscape. Then cool off with some of your buddies in the crystal-clear waters off Lake Havasu.
Day 14Start your day by visiting London Bridge (an…Grand Canyon
Stunning aerial view of Tarn Gorge with cliffs and river in La Malène, France.Grand Canyon
Start your day by visiting London Bridge (an exact 1800s replica shipped to Arizona from London) before heading off to Grand Canyon National Park. Grab a buddy or set off on your own into one of the deepest canyons in the world. Flip a coin to decide if you should hike along the rim or down into the canyon itself (just remember if you hike down you must hike up). All that effort will be worth it because guess what? You will get to enjoy a pizza dinner at the rim while watching sun set before you. The South Rim might end up being the best spot you have ever eaten a slice of 'za!
Map showing Grand Canyon
Day 15Another dayGrand Canyon
Beautiful landscape of Verdon Gorge featuring boats in turquoise river, Provence-Alpes-Côte d'Azur.Grand Canyon
Another day, another adventure! Not feeling a hike this morning? That's cool, you have the option to splurge on an unforgettable helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon. Get ready to feel incredibly small as the world opens up at your feet. Then cruise along historic Route 66 en route to... Vegas baby! Discover ghost towns and funky roadside attractions and bask in the fading sun as you head into “Sin City”. Explore the Las Vegas strip for a truly unforgettable evening of fun with your fellow trip mates. If you decide you want to cruise Vegas in style head out on an optional VIP party limo ride.
Map showing Grand Canyon
Day 16Experience a land of extremes in Death Valley…
Experience a land of extremes in Death Valley National Park. Visit the driest, the hottest, and the lowest places in the U.S. From Badwater Basin to Zabriskie Point and Dante's View to Furnace Creek – it is easy to fall in love with this desolate landscape. The adventure doesn't stop here you'll continue on to Bishop for a night of campfires, stories, and don't forget s'mores!
Day 17Yosemite can best be described as out…
Yosemite can best be described as out of this world. Catch a glimpse of the beauty on the drive from Bishop through the Sierra Nevadas along Tioga Pass. Once in the park itself let your mind wander as you hike past roaring waterfalls and giant sequoias. Gaze in wonder at Yosemite's magnificent peaks and granite domes before turning your attention to the tranquil nature of the valley floor. Snap photos or simply take in the splendour of one of the country's most beautiful national parks.
Day 18Catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge…San Francisco
Captivating view of San Francisco's famous Victorian houses with city skyline in the background.San Francisco
Catch a glimpse of the Golden Gate Bridge on the way into one of America's most popular cities. Even though the trip ends on arrival the fun doesn’t have to stop just yet. Ride a cable car, walk down winding Lombard Street, indulge in some erotic shaped treats in the Castro District, get lost at the botanical garden, chill out at Baker's Beach, and simply enjoy being in the moment.
Map showing San Francisco

Discover United States

A glimpse of the destination you'll explore.

Breathtaking view of Delicate Arch in Arches National Park at sunset, showcasing vibrant skies and rugged landscape.
Explore the majestic granite spires of Custer State Park in South Dakota's Black Hills.
Breathtaking view of Monument Valley's iconic rock formations at sunset, showcasing vivid desert landscape.
A tranquil road through a lush forest in Flagstaff, AZ, under a dramatic, cloudy sky.
Stunning view of the rugged terrain in Moapa Valley, Nevada under a clear sky.
Operated by G Adventures

A TripFinder-trusted operator. We compare the trip and handle your booking with a real advisor — you travel under the operator's terms.

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