14 Day USA Cross Country Tour: LA to NYC via Yellowstone

Exploring the USA in 14 Days: Cross-Country from Los Angeles to New York via Yellowstone

Imagine a journey that takes you from the glitz and glamour of Los Angeles to the bustling streets of New York City, with some of America’s most stunning natural wonders and iconic landmarks in between. This 14-day USA Cross Country Tour offers a whirlwind experience packed with incredible scenery, historic sites, and city highlights. For around $2,693 per person, you’ll travel with a knowledgeable guide, stay in comfortable hotels, and visit places you’ve probably only seen in photos.

What we really love about this tour is how it balances nature and city life — from the geysers and wildlife of Yellowstone to the architectural marvels of Chicago and the historic charm of Philadelphia. Plus, the included night tours in Las Vegas and Chicago help you enjoy these vibrant spots after hours, giving a different perspective. The tour’s flexibility to customize at certain points is a bonus, allowing you to explore on your own if desired.

One consideration is that the itinerary is quite full, which means early mornings and long days. If you prefer slow-paced travel or want more time at each site, this might feel rushed. Still, for those craving a comprehensive cross-country experience without the hassle of planning, this tour hits many high notes.

This adventure suits travelers who want an immersive, guided experience covering the US’s most famous parks and cities. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a mix of sightseeing, learning, and a little bit of adventure — all in a manageable, well-organized package.

Key Points

• Balanced itinerary with natural wonders and urban highlights
• Expert guides providing insights and smooth transportation
• Inclusion of night tours adds extra fun and local flavor
• Comfortable hotel stays for rest after busy days
• Flexible sightseeing options, especially in major cities
• Value-packed with many major sights included in the price

A Deep Dive into the 14-Day Journey

This tour is designed to cover a broad swath of the U.S., from California’s coast to the East Coast, with some of the most celebrated landmarks and parks. It’s a journey for those who want to see a lot but prefer having a guide handle the logistics.

Starting in Los Angeles and Santa Monica

Your adventure begins with airport pick-up in LA, where you’ll get to explore the iconic Santa Monica Pier and the lively beach scene. The first day sets the tone with a relaxed start and the option to enjoy a free day exploring LA on your own or joining a guided tour. This flexibility is helpful if you want to dive into Hollywood sights or just soak up the California vibe.

From California to the Mojave Desert and Nevada

Early on, you’ll head north along Highway 15, passing through the San Bernardino Forest and into the Mojave Desert — a landscape peppered with Joshua trees and endless horizons. The visit to Calico Ghost Town offers a glimpse into the Old West, with its charming reconstructed buildings and dusty streets. It’s a fun stop that feels like stepping back in time.

Las Vegas then appears as you approach, offering a night tour that showcases the city’s famous lights, fountains, and entertainment. From the Bellagio Fountains to the Mirage Volcano, this is a chance to see Vegas’ over-the-top side without spending a fortune.

Utah’s Natural Wonders

Moving into Utah, the tour hits the Great Salt Lake, a vast, saline body of water with a surreal landscape that’s unlike anywhere else in the US. The Utah State Capitol and Temple Square provide a mix of political history and spiritual architecture, both worth exploring.

The highlight here is Jackson Hole and the Grand Teton National Park. The scenic drive reveals towering mountains and shimmering lakes, perfect for photography or just soaking in the views. Then it’s onto Yellowstone, America’s first national park, where geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife create a landscape full of surprises.

Yellowstone: The Crown Jewel

Spending a full day in Yellowstone lets you see Old Faithful erupting predictably, the vibrant colors of Grand Prismatic Spring, and the geothermal activity at Norris Geyser Basin. The park’s diverse landscape, from bubbling mud pots to sweeping valleys, makes it a must-see. We loved the way the guide kept the group moving efficiently, allowing us to experience as much as possible within the limited time.

South Dakota and the Iconic Landmarks

Crossing into South Dakota, you’ll visit Devil’s Tower, a striking igneous formation famous from movies and Native American legends. It’s a short but memorable stop that adds a touch of continental grandeur.

Next is Mount Rushmore, where the carved faces of four presidents gaze down over the Black Hills. It’s a patriotic and impressive sight, especially when paired with a walk through the Badlands National Park, known for its sharply eroded buttes and pinnacles.

The Midwest: Cities and Cultural Stops

Traveling east, the tour spends time in Chicago, where you’ll enjoy sights like Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and a Chicago Architecture Cruise, which offers a unique perspective of the city’s skyline. The 360 Chicago Observation Deck provides sweeping views, making it clear why Chicago’s architecture is so celebrated.

Next, Detroit showcases its historic automotive roots at the Henry Ford Museum. Then it’s on to Cleveland for the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, a must for music lovers, and a ride up the Duquesne Incline for fantastic views of Pittsburgh.

Pennsylvania and the East Coast

The final days take you to Harrisburg and the Hershey’s Chocolate World, offering sweet relief after days of sightseeing. A visit to the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia completes the historic experiences, with its blend of academia and Revolutionary War sites.

Finally, ending in New York City, you’ll have the option to explore on your own or join optional tours, letting you soak in the city’s endless energy.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour offers good value with included hotel stays, most breakfasts, transportation, and many major attractions. The night tours in Las Vegas and Chicago are great extras that deepen your experience. The guided transportation ensures smooth travel across vast distances, and the professional guides are praised for their knowledge and friendly manner.

However, not everything is included. Gratuities, some attraction admissions, and personal expenses are extra. If you’re a foodie, be aware that meals beyond breakfast are on you, though the tour often includes lunch. You might also want to budget for optional activities like the Chicago architectural cruise or the night tour in Chicago if you’re interested.

How the Experience Shapes Up

One reviewer noted that the guides are very knowledgeable, making the long days more engaging. The stunning views at Yellowstone and Mount Rushmore receive high praise, with travelers mentioning the “breathtaking scenery” and “fantastic photo opportunities.” The organized nature of the tour helps keep things moving without feeling too rushed, although some may find the schedule tight.

The hotels generally meet expectations for comfort and location, providing a restful base after busy days. The optional self-guided days allow for some personal exploration if preferred.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for first-timers eager to see the highlights of the US without the stress of planning. It’s perfect for adventure seekers and city lovers alike, as it offers a good balance of natural parks, historic landmarks, and vibrant urban environments. If you appreciate guided travel for convenience and like seeing many sights in a compact trip, you’ll find this package enriches your understanding of America’s diverse landscape and culture.

It’s also well-suited for those who don’t mind early mornings and long days—this is a busy schedule that packs a lot into two weeks. If you prefer a more leisurely pace or traveling with a small group, you might consider this a good option for a comprehensive introduction rather than a relaxed vacation.

Final Thoughts

The 14-Day USA Cross Country Tour offers remarkable value, blending breathtaking scenery with fascinating cities. You’ll come away with a well-rounded impression of America’s natural beauty and urban architecture, guided by experts who keep the journey lively and informative. It’s a great way to check off many bucket-list destinations in one trip, especially if you’re looking for a guided, hassle-free experience.

This tour is best suited for active travelers eager to see a lot without the fuss of logistics. It’s ideal if you want an intimate look at national parks and major landmarks with the comfort of guided transportation and hotels, making it suitable for families, couples, or groups of friends.

Ultimately, you’ll enjoy the sense of achievement after covering vast distances and experiencing the diversity that makes the USA such a fascinating country.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
Yes, children over 6 can join, especially since booster seats are required for kids under 6. The busy schedule may be better suited for older children who can handle long days.

Are meals included beyond breakfast?
No, meals beyond breakfast are not included, giving you the freedom to explore local dining options in each city.

What kind of transportation is used?
The tour uses professional vehicles suited to the group size, ensuring comfortable travel across long distances.

Can I customize my sightseeing in major cities?
Yes, in some destinations you can explore independently or join optional activities, like the Chicago architecture cruise.

Are hotel rooms shared or single?
Rooms are based on two full/double beds or one king/queen, with a maximum of four travelers per room. Separate bookings are recommended for larger groups.

What if attractions are closed or weather is bad?
The itinerary may be adjusted to substitute attractions if closures occur, and refunds are available if the tour is canceled due to weather.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is approximately $2,693 per person, which includes hotels, most attractions, and guided transportation—good value considering the breadth of sights.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations up to six days in advance qualify for a full refund, though shorter notice may result in partial or no refunds.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, but keep in mind the rooms are shared; solo travelers may want to request a single room for extra comfort, if available.

Whether you’re after the raw beauty of Yellowstone, the historic allure of Mount Rushmore, or the vibrant energy of New York, this tour offers a balanced and memorable way to cross the US in two weeks. It’s a practical choice for those who want expert-guided convenience and a thorough overview of America’s most iconic sights.