Flying to the States, renting a car and crossing the entire country is your dream, but you don’t know how to approach it? Start with this article! Our travel expert has put together an amazing itinerary: in 3 weeks you will walk around the Big Apple, admire the Grand Canyon, sunbathe on the beaches of Miami and do much more. Let’s go!
The route is very busy:
New York → Buffalo → Chicago → Denver → National Arch Park → Canyonlands → Monument Valley → Grand Canyon → Brothers Canyon → Zayon → Las Vegas → Death Dolina → Sanchend → Big Big → Big Sur → Los Angeles → Miami
Days 1–5. New York
New York is one of the largest and most populous cities in the United States. The influence of cultures of different nationalities and the dynamic life of the metropolis make the city ultra-diverse. There are a huge number of different attractions and entertainment here.
To get from the airport to Manhattan, the most convenient way is to use the subway. From the airport to the Sutphin Blvd metro station — Archer Av — JFK Airport is served by the AirTrain. The entire journey from the airport to Manhattan (metro Lexington Av/53 St) will take you about 40 minutes.
Ticket prices: AirTrain $5 + Metro $2.75.
You will spend five days in New York. We have selected several accommodation options for you:
- Hyatt Herald Square New York/5th Avenue
- Club Quarters Hotel Midtown — Times Square
- Hotel Hayden New York
Central Park
Photo: depositphotos.com
The famous Central Park is a huge green area in the middle of stony Manhattan, located between the Upper West Side and the Upper East Side. Spend a few hours here, look at the legendary Plaza Hotel and take a break from the noise of the metropolis, walking along the alleys and lawns.
Official website: Central Park NYC
Times Square
The square in the central part of Manhattan is located at the intersection of Broadway and Seventh Avenue between 42nd and 47th streets. Broadway theaters, a huge number of neon signs and a flurry of non-stop activity have made the square one of the symbols of New York.
Official website: Times Square NYC
Rockefeller Center
Photo: pio3/Shutterstock.com
Rockefeller Center is a famous building where the Christmas tree is traditionally displayed every December. In the very center there are restaurants, shops, exhibitions and events. Here you can also go up to the observation deck on the 70th floor, which offers an excellent view of the city.
Ticket cost to the site: $38
Address: 45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York
Official website: Rockfeller Center
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building consists of 103 floors, and the building is 381 meters high. This is the famous symbol of Manhattan. There are two panoramic viewing platforms: on the 86th and 102nd floors. When darkness falls, the top of the building is traditionally illuminated with lights.
Ticket price: from 36 $
Address: 20 W 34th St, New York
Official website: Empire State Building
Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty is another symbol of New York. It stands on the island of the same name in the bay between Manhattan and Staten Island. It can be reached by ferry from Battery Park or Liberty State Park.
Ticket price: $25.5
Official website: Statue of Liberty
Brooklyn Bridge and Brooklyn
The famous Brooklyn Bridge connects two New York boroughs: Manhattan and Brooklyn. Brooklyn is quieter than Manhattan. There are many galleries and creative attractions here. At the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge on the Brooklyn side there is a large park with excellent views of the bridge and Manhattan.
Day 5. Moving to Buffalo
On the morning of the fifth day, move to the city of Buffalo. To get there, we recommend renting a car.
Take I-80 W. Travel time will take approximately 6 hours.
Days 5–7. Buffalo
Buffalo is a city in the state of New York, located on the shores of one of the Great Lakes – Lake Erie. Buffalo is notable for its architecture, galleries, famous Buffalo chicken wings and close location to one of the Wonders of the World – Niagara Falls.
We have selected 3 hotel options in Buffalo:
- The Delavan Hotel
- The Mansion on Delaware Avenue
- The Westin Buffalo
Architecture
Photo: Victoria Lipov/Shutterstock.com
The city has remarkably preserved ancient architecture. In the Allentown area, see Tifft’s Row, the seven buildings on Allen Street, the William Dorsheimer House on Delaware Avenue, and the former Catholic Institute building at the corner of Virginia and Main.
Not far from Delaware Avenue is the city’s richest neighborhood, Bryant. The most expensive houses in the city are located here. See the Butler Mansion, Clement Mansion, Richmond Lockwood House, and the Charles W. Goodyear House. Now many of the houses in this area are given over to offices and belong to companies and organizations.
Parkside is another area worth checking out. It preserves the architecture of houses from the 1890s to the 1920s.
Delaware Park
Photo: Elijah Lovkoff/Shutterstock.com
This is the largest park in the city with lawns, shady alleys and a lake. Here locals walk, have picnics and play sports. See the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden, or visit the Buffalo Zoo.
Niagara Falls
Niagara Falls is a complex of stunning cascades on the Niagara River. The waterfalls reach a height of 53 meters and a width of about 800 meters. The national park in the United States has trails and observation decks with breathtaking views. Explore the islands of Green, Goat and Three Sisters, which are connected by bridges built over the river and its rapids.
The park offers visitors a helicopter flight over the waterfall, a visit to the Cave of the Winds, a boat cruise to the waterfalls and other excursion programs.
Ticket price: admission to the National Park is free. But you can purchase The Discovery Pass, which includes several activities in the park. Cost — 46 $
How to get there: by car, head north. Travel time is about 30 minutes. You can also take bus No. 40.
Official website: Niagara Falls USA
Day 7. Moving to Chicago
On the morning of the seventh day of your trip, go to Chicago. Take I-90 W along Lake Erie. The journey will take approximately 8 hours.
Days 7–9. Chicago
Chicago is a city in Illinois, located on the shores of Lake Michigan. Gone are the days of gangsters, and today the city is safe and very beautiful. Chicago is known for its skyscrapers, world-class museums, and numerous cultural attractions.
We have selected for you 6 accommodation options in Chicago, varying in price:
- The Talbott Hotel
- Freehand Chicago
- DoubleTree by Hilton Chicago Magnificent Mile
- theWit Chicago, A DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
- The Blackstone, Autograph Collection
- Virgin Hotels Chicago
Millennium Park
Photo: elesi/Shutterstock.com
Millennium Park is the main green space in the city with art exhibitions, sculptures and gardens. It hosts a variety of events, including The Bean, Crown Fountain and the amazing Lurie Garden.
Entrance: free
Address: 201 E Randolph St, Chicago
Official website: Millennium Park Foundation
Art Institute of Chicago
Photo: MaxyM/Shutterstock.com
The Art Institute of Chicago is a must-see museum in Chicago. Travel through centuries and countries, observing works of art from different eras. The museum displays works by such great artists as Claude Monet, Vincent Van Gogh, Paul Cezanne, Pierre Auguste Renoir and others.
Ticket price: $25
Address: 111 S Michigan Ave, Chicago
Official website: Art Institute Chicago
Chicago Riverwalk
Stroll along the Chicago River on a paved walking path that stretches for nearly 2 kilometers. Along the way you will see cozy cafes and restaurants, art, bars, monuments and museums. There are stations along the embankment from where you can take a boat trip on the river.
Entrance: free
Getting there: The embankment stretches along E Lower Wacker Drive and is bounded by North State Street and Lake Michigan.
Official website: Chicago Riverwalk
Willis Tower
The observation deck on the 103rd floor allows you to look ahead, up and below your feet. The site offers panoramic views of the entire Chicago.
Ticket price: $25
Address: 233 South Wacker Drive, Chicago
Official website: Willis Tower
Day 9. Flight to Denver
Please return your car at the airport collection point and head to Denver by air. The most convenient way to fly is with Spirit Airlines or American Airlines. The flight is direct, travel time will be 2 hours 40 minutes.
Choose a morning flight to have time to explore the city before the evening.
Find tickets for your dates on OneTwoTrip.
Day 9. Denver
Photo: Oscity/Shutterstock.com
The most convenient way to get to the city from the airport is by train, the final stop of which is the LoDo area. Travel time is about 40 minutes.
The city of Denver, the capital of the state of Colorado, is located at an altitude of 1609 meters above sea level.
In Denver, take a walk through the main district – Capitol Hill, along its central streets: Broadway, Downing Street, Colfax Avenue and Sixth Avenue.
An equally attractive part of the city is the LoDo area, that is, Lower Downtown, with its historical buildings, museums and restaurants. Come to Larimer Square, home to Victorian homes, sidewalk cafes and nightlife.
Denver Botanical Gardens
Denver Botanical Garden is home to 43 gardens featuring plants from around the world. The gardens include: a Japanese garden, greenhouses with flowers and waterfalls, pavilions with orchids, tropical and subtropical zones.
Ticket price: $12.5
Address: 1007 York St, Denver
Official website: Denver Botanical Gardens
Colorado State Capitol
The Capitol is a government building with a nice park nearby. It is located on a hill, so some of its points offer good views of the city of Denver.
The Capitol offers free tours from Monday to Friday from 10.00 to 15.00.
Address: 200 E Colfax Ave, Denver
Official website: Colorado State Capitol
In the evening of the same day, we suggest you move towards the National Parks.
Days 9–12. National parks
To visit multiple national parks, rent a car and buy The U.S. Park Pass. The pass costs $80 and allows free vehicle access to all US national parks for a year.
Leaving Denver, take I-70 W to Moab. Estimated travel time – 5.5 hours.
In Moab we offer the following accommodation options:
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott Moab
- Moab Springs Ranch
- Red Cliffs Lodge
Arches Park, Canyonlands, Monument Valley
On the tenth day of the trip, we suggest driving through the following parks: Arches National Park, Canyonlands National Park and Monument Valley.
Travel time from Moab to Arches Park is approximately 10 minutes. Arches Park is about a 30-minute drive from Canyonlands. From Canyonlands to Monument Valley, the journey will take approximately 2.5 hours. In total, you will spend about 3 hours on the road, and the rest of the time you can spend stopping in parks and contemplating their beauties.
Find all information about the park, maps and navigation on the official websites:
- Arches National Park, Utah
- Canyonlands, Utah
- Monument Valley, Utah and Arizona
In the evening, stop for the night in the city of Page:
- Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell
Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion
On the morning of the eleventh day, go to the Grand Canyon National Park, Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park.
From your hotel to the Grand Canyon Park, the journey by car will take about 2.5 hours. From the Grand Canyon to Bryce Canyon is approximately a 3 hour drive. From Bryce Canyon to Zion is about 1.5 hours. Travel time between parks will be about 7 hours.
Find all information about the park, maps and navigation on the official websites:
In the evening, head to Las Vegas. The journey from Zion Park to the city will take approximately 2 hours and 40 minutes.
In the evening we suggest you stay at one of the following hotels:
- Downtown Grand, an Ascend Hotel
- Renaissance Las Vegas Hotel
- The Signature at MGM
- JW Marriott Las Vegas Resort and Spa
Days 12–13. Death Valley and Yosemite
The next morning, head to California, to Death Valley National Park. The journey from Las Vegas to the park will take about 2 hours.
Death Valley, California
Park information, maps and navigation
After visiting Death Valley, head to Yosemite National Park. Travel time between parks will be approximately 3.5 hours.
Yosemite, California
Park information, maps and navigation
We suggest staying overnight in the picturesque Mammoth Lakes:
- Juniper Springs Resort
- The Westin Monache Resort
On day 13 of your trip, head towards San Francisco. The journey will take about 3.5 hours.
Days 13–14. San Francisco
San Francisco is a city on 43 hills with winding streets, large parks and stunning landscapes.
We have selected 3 accommodation options in San Francisco for different tastes and budgets:
- The Marker San Francisco, a Joie de Vivre Hotel
- Staypineapple at The Alise San Francisco
- Axiom Hotel
Golden Gate Bridge
Golden Gate is the famous red bridge in San Francisco, the total length of which is 2737 meters. Go see panoramic views of the bridge from the left or right side at its base. You can also walk across the bridge.
Official website: Golden Gate Bridge
Alcatraz
Alcatraz is a former island prison for the most dangerous criminals in the United States. Now there are excursions around its territory. The ferry to the island departs from Pier 33. Or you can see Alcatraz from the outside by taking a tour of the bay.
Ticket price: from 39.90 $
How to get there: Pier 33, San Francisco
Official website: Alcatraz Island
Tram
Ride traditional streetcars along the narrow streets of San Francisco. Three streetcars will take you to popular attractions and destinations including North Beach, Chinatown, Union Square and Nob Hill. You can board the tram at one of its stops in the central area of the city. To view a map of stops, visit the official website or download the MuniMobile app.
Ticket cost: $7 for a one-time trip
Official website: Cable Cars
Victorian houses
Victorian houses are famous from films, TV series and postcards, and are one of the most photographed landmarks in San Francisco. The best way to view their colorful facades is from Alamo Square Park, located across the street.
Address: Steiner St &, Hayes St, San Francisco
Days 14–15. Moving from San Francisco to Los Angeles. California Coast
We recommend getting from San Francisco to Los Angeles by car via CA State Route 1. The highway stretches along the coast, which offers stunning views.
McWay Falls
In Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls falls directly onto the sand of the beach of the same name. Scenic paths lead from the highway to the waterfall.
Bixby Bridge
Cross Highway 1’s most famous landmark, the Bixby Bridge. Once you’ve passed it, stop to take photos and admire the impressive scenery.
Nepenthe Restaurant
Photo: nepenthe.com
Stop for lunch at the view restaurant Nepenthe. Try traditional American dishes and pies and relax on the pleasant terrace.
Price level: $$-$$$
Address: 48510 CA-1, Big Sur, CA
Official website: Nepenthe Reastaurant
We have selected 5 hotel options, different in price:
- Monterey Plaza Hotel & Spa
- Portola Hotel & Spa
- La Playa Carmel
- Carriage House Inn
- Hyatt Carmel Highlands, Overlooking Big Sur Coast
Days 15–18. Los Angeles
Los Angeles is a unique city located on the shores of the Pacific Ocean. It is the cinema capital of the world and home to world-famous actors and musicians. The famous Santa Monica and Malibu, Universal Studios and the Walk of Fame, Beverly Hills and Hollywood are located here.
We have selected several accommodation options in Los Angeles, varying in cost:
- Tuck Hotel
- Dream Hollywood
- Kimpton Everly Hotel
- InterContinental — Los Angeles Downtown
- Hotel Indigo — Los Angeles Downtown
Hollywood
Hollywood is the center of the music and film industries. Go see the Walk of Fame and the HOLLYWOOD sign on the hill.
The Walk of Fame is located on Hollywood Blvd, and the famous inscription is located near Griffith Park. The best views of the inscription are from Griffith Observatory, Griffith Park trails, Barnsdall Art Park and Hollywood & Highland.
Universal Studio
Photo: Asif Islam/Shutterstock.com
Universal Studios is where a great many films were filmed. Here you can take a stroll through the studio’s many pavilions, meet characters from famous films, see how special effects are created, and ride on themed rides.
Ticket price: from 109 $
Address: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA
Official website: Universal City
Beverly Hills
Photo: depositphotos.com
This area is one of the most fashionable places in the city. Head here to see Los Angeles’ opulent homes, sophisticated shops and restaurants. It is in Beverly Hills that many Hollywood stars live.
Santa Monica
Santa Monica is an area with a long strip of beach, piers, restaurants and plenty of entertainment.
Here you can go surfing, try the most authentic American cuisine, watch the sunset on the pier and lie on the famous Venice beach.
Official website: Santa Monica
Disneyland
We suggest going to Disneyland for half a day. For fans of Disney products, numerous sets have been built here and many amazing attractions operate here. It will be interesting not only for children, but also for adults.
Ticket price: from 129 $
Address: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA
Official website: Disneyland LA
Day 18. Flight from Los Angeles to Miami
It’s time to go to the airport and return the car. The most convenient way to travel from Los Angeles to Miami is by plane. Direct flights are operated by Alaska Airlines; the flight time will be just over five hours. It is best to choose a flight in the morning so that you have more time to explore Miami.
Find a ticket for the desired dates on the OneTwoTrip website.
Days 18–21. Miami
Miami is a sunny city on the Atlantic Ocean in Florida. There are many long beaches with golden sand, trendy restaurants, bars and fashionable clubs.
The most convenient way to get from Fort Lauderdale Airport to downtown Miami is by bus. Travel time is about 1 hour.
We have selected several accommodation options in Miami:
- InterContinental at Doral Miami
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Miami Downtown/Brickell
- SLS LUX Brickell
Downtown
Downtown Miami is the business and financial center of the city with tall buildings housing offices, shops and restaurants. Stroll its streets and be sure to visit the Biscayne Bay waterfront, where there are pedestrian paths and Bayfront Park.
Miami Beach
Miami Beach is one of the most famous resorts in the USA. This area lies between Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. A wide strip of sand abuts the famous Ocean Drive, where a huge number of people play sports, have fun in bars and restaurants, and conquer the waves in the surf in the waters of the Atlantic Ocean.
Official website: Miami Beach
Little Havana
Photo: Fotoluminate LLC/Shutterstock.com
Little Havana is an area inhabited by immigrants from Cuba, Nicaragua and Honduras. It is attractive with its narrow streets and one-story houses, which create a special atmosphere. The area is considered safe for tourists, but it is better to come here during the daytime.
Little Havana is located near Downtown and you can take a bus or taxi to get there.
Villa Vizcaya
Photo: Mia2you/Shutterstock.com
Villa Vizcaya is an architectural and landscape complex with gardens, forest and exquisite decoration of a villa on the bay.
Ticket price: $20
Address: 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami
Official website: Villa Vizcaya
Coconut Grove
Photo: Felix Mizioznikov/Shutterstock.com
Coconut Grove is a picturesque and green area of Miami on the bay with mangrove forests. Go for a walk around the area along the coast, passing through park areas, past restaurants, bars and the marina.
Expert advice
- To plan your route in and between cities, use the Rome2Rio service.
- Convenient offline maps: Citiwalks.me and Maps.me.
- At restaurants, bars and other establishments in the United States, an additional tax will be charged and included in the bill.
- Please note that some roads in the United States may have tolls.
