After breakfast the choice is yours! Perhaps you’ll choose to take an hour-long cruise on San Francisco Bay featuring an in-depth narration on its history and landmarks including Alcatraz** and the Golden Gate Bridge. Or join a local guide for a sightseeing tour of the city. Hear stories of the city’s past and present as you drive past its famous landmarks including the Twin Peaks, Seal Rocks and the Golden Gate Bridge. Your afternoon is at leisure to explore the shops at either Fisherman’s Wharf or Union Square. Perhaps you’ll take a ride up and down the city’s thrilling hills on a classic cable car.

  Breakfast     High  21 Low  13     Marriott At Fishermans Wharf

Day 3. San Francisco – Yosemite National Park

TToday you wind through the majestic Sierra Nevada Mountains en route to one of Mother Nature’s greatest masterpieces – Yosemite National Park. Whilst camping at the park in 1903, President Theodore Roosevelt called Yosemite “the most beautiful place in the world.” Yosemite’s amazing waterfalls, remarkable rock formations, deep valleys, Alpine meadows and groves of beautiful trees will leave you awestruck as they did Ansel Adams, who lived in the park while taking his famous portfolio of striking photographs. Upon arrival, join your fellow travellers on an open-air tram* to view sites such as Yosemite Falls, Half Dome and El Capitan, as well as learn about the park’s history, geology and wildlife.

  Breakfast      High  29  Low  9     Yosemite Hotel

Day 4. Yosemite National Park – Monterey

Travel to Monterey, the city often called the greatest meeting of land, sea and sky. It’s where California’s statehood began in 1849. Monterey is filled with lovingly restored historic buildings and Spanish adobes, and is home to the famed 17-Mile Drive, also known as one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world. Along the drive you will pass through the Del Monte Forest and see such famous sights as the Lone Cypress Tree, perhaps the most photographed tree in the world; Seal Rock, where the seals may actually bark at you; and the prestigious Pebble Beach Golf Course, where the fairways run along seaside cliffs. Time is available to independently explore charming Monterey and shop at Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck..

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  22  Low  12     Monterey Marriott

Journey 90 miles along the Big Sur coast, flanked by the Santa Lucia Mountains and the sea-sprayed rocky Pacific, for a trip that will surely take your breath away. Upon arrival in San Simeon, visit one of the world’s greatest showplaces, the palatial mountaintop retreat of Hearst Castle, built by newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst. Tour the castle, built on a 40,000 acre ranch that Hearst frequently camped on as a child. Now a National Historic Landmark, Hearst was constantly building and rebuilding what he simply called “the ranch.” As a result, the estate was not completed during Hearst’s lifetime and was later donated to the State of California in 1957. Explore some of its 165 rooms and 127 acres of gardens, terraces, pools and walkways. Later, arrive in enchanting Santa Barbara, famous for its breathtaking setting and natural beauty fused from the dramatic mix of mountains, valleys, beaches, islands and the sea.

  Breakfast & Dinner    High  21  Low  13     Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn

Day 6. Santa Barbara

This morning your Tour Manager will show you some of Santa Barbara’s most historic sites. A quick stop is made at the Old Mission Santa Barbara, established in 1786. It is often referred to as the “Queen of the Missions.” A walk through the Santa Barbara County Courthouse includes a view of the city from atop the clock tower. Some free time allows you to explore the downtown area laced with pedestrian-friendly pavements and paseos, with the Santa Ynez Mountains as a lovely backdrop. You may prefer to grab a pedicab (Santa Barbara’s answer to the rickshaw) or hop aboard an eco-friendly electric shuttle to the waterfront area famous for Stearns Wharf which has been a part of the scene since 1872.

  Breakfast      High  24 Low  13      Best Western Plus Pepper Tree Inn

Day 7. Santa Barbara – Los Angeles – Long Beach

This morning, your coastal journey takes you to glittering Los Angeles, the “City of Angels,” and home to Universal Studios, as well as a host of your favourite musical and film celebrities. A local expert will board our coach to take you on an exciting tour of Los Angeles and the surrounding area. You’ll begin your tour at the Grand Central Market, then continue past Walt Disney Concert Hall and the Staples Centre. A real treat is planned for you with a stop at The Original Farmers Market. Have time on your own to explore. Perhaps you’ll browse the shops or partake in some farm-fresh fare. Continue on to two of the most famous sections of town, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica.

  Breakfast     High  27  Low  16     Renaissance Long Beach

Day 8. Long Beach

The day is yours to enjoy as you wish. Explore the area independently or choose to join an optional tour of Hollywood to learn secrets of the stars and catch a glimpse of their homes and hangouts. Your Tour Manager will help you make the perfect choice. Tonight, gather with your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High 27 Low  16     Renaissance Long Beach

Day 9. Long Beach – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to an end today, but the memories will stay with you forever.

Travel to Rocky Mountain National Park to discover the true meaning of “panoramic.” This celebrated “Roof of the Rockies” offers views of massive peaks and rugged canyons as you experience one of the largest national parks in the United States. En route to Grand Junction, enjoy a glorious ride past Vail, Breckenridge and other famous ski areas in Colorado.

  Breakfast     High  27  Low  10     Doubletree Hotel Grand Junction

Day 3. Grand Junction – Arches – Canyonlands – Grand Junction

One amazing park visit follows another. In Arches National Park, see the world’s largest concentration of natural sandstone arches as well as an astounding variety of geological formations. Next, arrive at Canyonlands National Park and travel to the Island in the Sky mesa which rests on sheer sandstone cliffs over 1,000 feet above the surrounding terrain.

  Breakfast      High  27  Low  10     Doubletree Hotel Grand Junction

Day 4. Grand Junction – Colorado National Monument – Grand Junction

Visit one of the grand landscapes of the American West – Colorado National Monument. Travel along the Rim Rock to see a colourful panorama of deep, sheer-sided canyons and high rock towers. Later, journey to Colorado’s wine country to learn about one of the region’s up-and-coming vineyards and sample the fruits of its labour. At a lovely family-owned vineyard, meet a family member who will take you on a private tour to see the process up-close. Then sit down to a winemaker’s dinner to hear stories of the vineyard, the wine they produce and the life of a winemaker.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  27  Low  10     Doubletree Hotel Grand Junction

Drive south to the small mining town of Silverton, a National Historic Landmark. Hidden high in the San Juan Mountains, this town blends spectacular scenery, Victorian charm and historic architecture. Then it’s “all aboard” the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. This 1881 coal-fired, steam-powered locomotive was built to haul silver and gold ore from the San Juan Mountains…but you will soon realise it is the view that is truly precious. This evening, enjoy an Old West adventure* filled with traditional cowboy food and entertainment.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  24 Low  6      Durango Strater Hotel

Day 6. Durango – Mesa Verde National Park – Durango

An incredible day awaits at Mesa Verde National Park, best known as the home of the ancient and mysterious Ancestral Puebloan civilization. Visit the fascinating Spruce Tree Cliff Dwelling to see one of the largest and best preserved cliff dwellings built between 1211-1278 by this fascinating Native American culture.

  Breakfast      High  24  Low  6      Durango Strater Hotel

Day 7. Durango – Colorado Springs

Enjoy a relaxing ride to Colorado Springs. En route, marvel at the scenery as you depart the San Juan National Forest, cross Wolf Creek Pass over the Continental Divide, and pass through the beautiful Rio Grande National Forest, a vast expanse of wilderness.

  Breakfast     High  23  Low  7     Doubletree Hotel Colorado Springs

Day 8. Colorado Springs – Manitou Springs – Colorado Springs

Depart for Manitou Springs, home of Pikes Peak – the legendary symbol of the 1859 Gold Rush. Embark on a journey aboard the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, the world’s highest cog railroad, for an 8.9 mile trip to the top of Pikes Peak (approx. 14,110 ft.). During the journey you will see magnificent views and perhaps animals in their native habitat. Later, travel to the Garden of the Gods, on the National Register for Historic Places, to see the towering sandstone formations and enjoy a wonderful view of Pikes Peak. Tonight, join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner to celebrate a trip filled with scenic delights and railway adventures.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  23  Low  7     Doubletree Hotel Colorado Springs

Day 9. Colorado Springs – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close in Colorado Springs.

  Breakfast

This morning, delve into the region’s Native American history during a chat with a local tribe member. Learn about the various tribes of the area, their traditions, histories and modern-day life of Native Americans in Arizona. Next, enjoy a tour of Scottsdale and Phoenix. Highlights include downtown Phoenix, Camelback Mountain, Paradise Valley, Old Town Scottsdale and more. The remainder of the day is at leisure to explore Old Town Scottsdale or just relax at your hotel.

  Breakfast     High  37  Low  19     Courtyard By Marriott Scottsdale

Day 3. Scottsdale – Sedona – Grand Canyon

Journey to stunning Sedona. Enjoy time to soak in the atmosphere as you span the colourful vistas while taking time to browse the arts and crafts shops in the marketplace. You will be awed by Oak Creek Canyon, where the rock formations seem to change hue with every turn in the road. Later, travel through the spectacular Kaibab National Forest before reaching the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  29  Low  14     Grand Canyon Hotel

Day 4. Grand Canyon – Lake Powell

This morning you will have ample time to get up-close to nature and explore the Grand Canyon. Behold the breathtaking views of the vast canyon with a drive along East Rim Drive. Theodore Roosevelt, upon visiting the canyon, is quoted as saying, “This is one of the great sights which every American, if he can travel at all, must see.” Later, a short drive brings you to Cameron Trading Post. For nearly a century, the post has been a haven for travellers, traders and explorers who come from all points of the globe to see the wonder of the Grand Canyon and experience the Native American cultures of the Southwest. Continue north through mesa-studded desert scenery before arriving at your home for the next two evenings – a lovely hotel overlooking the stunning blue waters of Lake Powell.

  Breakfast     High  21  Low  9     Lake Powell Resort

Begin your day with an invigorating breakfast cruise along lovely Lake Powell. Today the choice is yours. Perhaps you will travel through the territory of the Navajo nation and arrive in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, a sacred Navajo land featuring colourful sandstone spires that rise hundreds of feet from the valley floor. Enjoy a fascinating tour, narrated by one of the Navajo tribe members. A stop will be made at a Hogan, a traditional Navajo hut. Or, perhaps you’ll choose to take a canyon adventure cruise which passes by Glen Canyon and Antelope Canyon. As you drift along, gaze at majestic sandstone geologic formations. Later today, return to Lake Powell for dinner followed by leisure time.

  Breakfast & Dinner    High  21  Low  9     Lake Powell Resort

Day 6. Lake Powell – Bryce Canyon National Park – Zion National Park

Today, travel to Bryce Canyon National Park, truly one of the most spectacular scenic wonders of the world. The formations within the park, called Hoodoos, are the creation of wind and water erosion over eons of time. Iron oxidising within the rock causes the natural orange and red hues that colour these formations. Your final destination for the day is the red and white sandstone cliffs of Zion National Park. In sheer magnitude and colour, Zion is very likely one of the most awe-inspiring national parks in the world.

  Breakfast      High  25 Low  9     Majestic View Lodge

Day 7. Zion National Park – Las Vegas, Nevada

Climb aboard Zion’s open-air tram to experience spectacular scenery as you wind alongside the Virgin River through the 2,400 foot deep, one-half-mile wide Zion Canyon. Later, leave nature’s beauty behind for the glitz and glamour of the Las Vegas strip. Probably the most famous stretch of road in the world, its four miles of neon-lit resorts with round-the-clock action is like nowhere else on earth. A 2-night stay provides you plenty of time to enjoy the shows, the casinos and all the fun.

  Breakfast     High  27  Low  12     Paris Hotel Las Vegas

Day 8. Las Vegas

Today is yours to do as you please. Lounge by the pool sipping cool drinks, experience an amazing one-of-a-kind show, browse the world-renowned shops or try your luck in the casino. Or, perhaps explore the hotels on the strip with themes that capture your attention as you get swept away by the wonders inside. Take time to visit Mandalay Bay’s Shark Reef aquarium or stop by the Luxor to see the sphinxes and pyramid; New York-New York brings the “Big Apple” to life right on the Vegas strip; see the Eiffel Tower; “ooh” and “ahh” at the Mirage volcano; or take a gondola ride at the Venetian. The Las Vegas strip brings the world to you.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  27 Low  12     Paris Hotel Las Vegas

Day 9. Las Vegas – Tour Ends

Depart for home with amazing memories of your journey.

This morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Providence, “America’s Renaissance City.” Then depart for Newport, the “Yachting Capital of the East.” Return to America’s Gilded Age as you make your way along breathtaking Ocean Drive en route to Bellevue Avenue which is lined with 11 extraordinary mansions. Built in the 1800’s as summer “cottages,” 7 of the 11 mansions have been designated National Historic Landmarks. Tour the Marble House, the gorgeous summer home of Mr. and Mrs. William Vanderbilt. As you explore this architectural marvel you will gain an understanding of why Newport became such a grand destination.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  23 Low  12     Hilton Providence

Day 3. Providence – Boston, Massachusetts – Providence

Depart Providence and travel north to the historic city of Boston. Come to know Boston’s Yankee charm during a tour that highlights Beacon Hill, the Old South Meeting House, Boston Public Garden, the historic North End, Old North Church, the U.S.S. Constitution and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Enjoy some leisure time to stroll along part of the famed Freedom Trail, a 2.5 mile walking path through the streets of Boston that showcases the city’s historical sites; or, perhaps further explore the lively marketplace at Faneuil Hall.

  Breakfast      High  23  Low  12     Hilton Providence

Day 4. Providence – Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Today, delve into a traditional way of life as you tour a New England cranberry bog and learn about dry harvesting from a local grower. Then, step back in time with a stop in the celebrated town of Plymouth, where the Pilgrims landed in 1620. See legendary Plymouth Rock and board a reproduction of the Mayflower, the 102-passenger ship used by the Pilgrims for the 65 day journey from England. Experience the Pilgrim way of life with a visit to Plimoth Plantation, a re-creation of a 17th-century village. Today’s lunch teaches you how to “eat like a Pilgrim.” Sample recipes from that time, learn some Pilgrim etiquette and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast with your fellow travellers. Later, arrive at your beachfront hotel for a relaxing 4-night stay.

  Breakfast & Lunch        Sea Crest Beach Hotel

Your day begins with a panoramic tour of Hyannis. Catch a glimpse of the Camelot era as you travel through Hyannisport, home of the Kennedy compound, and visit the poignant Kennedy Memorial. Next, board the high speed ferry to Nantucket. Upon arrival, set out on a tour exploring this idyllic island. From cobblestone Main Street to its beaches and lighthouses, this is a place that truly lives up to its reputation. During time at leisure you may explore the island’s waterfront where sailboats and yachts sway in the harbour or shop for a famous Nantucket basket. Tonight, enjoy a wonderful dinner featuring a cooking demonstration that highlights a local speciality.

  Breakfast & Dinner        Sea Crest Beach Hotel

Day 6. Cape Cod – Martha’s Vineyard – Cape Cod

A ferry ride transports you to the beautiful island of Martha’s Vineyard. Known for visits by presidents and royalty, this summer home of many artists, writers and celebrities is full of surprises. A local guide will show you all the highlights of “the Vineyard”—as the locals call it—including quaint gingerbread-styled cottages and a once-famous whaling port resplendent with sea captain’s homes and widow’s walks. Later, depart the island and cruise back to Cape Cod. Tonight, explore downtown Falmouth, an interesting and eclectic all-American Main Street that is a wonderful place to visit, shop and dine.

  Breakfast     Sea Crest Beach Hotel

Day 7. Cape Cod – Provincetown – Cape Cod

This morning we travel to Provincetown, located on the tip of the Cape. This lively artist colony remains famous for its crafts and bright seagoing flair. The choice is yours – you may choose to set out on a whale watch cruise* that takes you out to Cape Cod Bay in search of these magnificent creatures; or, perhaps you’d prefer to embark on a scenic adventure through the iconic sand dunes of the Cape. Tonight, complete your New England experience as you indulge in a traditional seafood and lobster feast.

  Breakfast & Dinner      Sea Crest Beach Hotel

Day 8. Cape Cod – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close, leaving you with many fond memories.

  Breakfast

Embark on a sightseeing tour of the “Emerald City,” including the colourful restored waterfront area, historic Pioneer Square, and lively Pike Place Market, a famous fish and vegetable market dotted with restaurants and shops. Departing Seattle, travel south through Olympia and stop at the Mount St. Helens Visitor Centre. Learn about the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens as well as the history and geology of the state park. Continue to Portland, Oregon for a two-night stay in North America’s “Best Big City.”

  Breakfast     High  23  Low  11     Hotel Eastlund

Day 3. Portland – Cascade Mountains – Portland

Drive along the Mt. Hood route to the lush Columbia River Gorge. It’s a day of sightseeing you will never forget. Mt. Hood dominates the horizon as you leave the valley and enter the slopes of the Cascade Mountains. Discover the awe-inspiring landscapes on a tour of the magnificent Columbia River Gorge and the Bonneville Dam, where you will learn about its fascinating hydropower and history. This evening, relax on Portland’s premier dining and sightseeing cruise. Enjoy a vibrant setting enhanced by dazzling city sights and city lights, festive cuisine and live performances. Glide along the Willamette River and Lake Oswego for an unforgettable and delightful evening.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  23 Low  11     Hotel Eastlund

Day 4. Portland – Willamette Valley – Newport – North Bend

Your scenic journey takes you through what was the Promised Land for many pioneers during the days of the Oregon Trail. The Willamette Valley contains some of the most fertile agricultural soils of Oregon and nurtures vegetables, flowers, herbs, nuts and vineyards. Next, head to the coastal town of Newport for a brief stop before travelling along some of the country’s most beautiful coastline and the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area.

  Breakfast & Dinner       The Mill Casino

Begin your day with a drive to Bandon State Natural Area. You will be amazed by the scenery along the striking Beach Loop with sights such as Bandon Rocks and Face Rock, known to many from the American Indian legend. Stop in the picturesque coastal town of Gold Beach, known for amazing wildlife including bald eagles, cormorants, seals and blue heron. Continuing south, enter the redwood country of California. Travel through the famous Redwood National Park, home to some of the world’s tallest trees. Inside the park, get up-close to these trees that rise to nearly 91 metres tall and see for yourself why the sun seldom hits the ground. Arriving in Eureka, enjoy a delightful tour through this historic timber and fishing village and witness the Victorian architecture of Old Town.

  Breakfast    High  16  Low  9     Red Lion Eureka

Day 6. Eureka – San Francisco

Continue your journey through the majestic beauty and splendid grandeur of the Redwood Forest, including the “Avenue of the Giants,” a scenic highway loaded with towering redwoods. Next, drive over the legendary Golden Gate Bridge and arrive in “the City by the Bay,” San Francisco. Tonight, gather for dinner on Pier 39 which offers exceptional views of San Francisco Bay and the Bay Bridge.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High 20 Low  13    San Francisco Marriott Hotel

Day 7. Choice of San Francisco Bay Cruise or City Tour of San Francisco

After breakfast the choice is yours! Perhaps you’ll choose to take an hour-long cruise on San Francisco Bay featuring an in-depth narration on its history and landmarks including Alcatraz* and the Golden Gate Bridge. Or join a local guide for a sightseeing tour of the city…hear stories of the city’s past and present as you drive past its famous landmarks including Fisherman’s Wharf, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the view of the city from the Twin Peaks. The remainder of your day is at leisure to explore San Francisco independently. For a true local experience, ride the famed cable cars up and down San Francisco’s thrilling hills.

  Breakfast     High  20  Low  13    San Francisco Marriott Hotel

Day 8. San Francisco – Tour Ends

Your tour ends today, but the memories will stay with you forever.