3 week tour of america

Kate Abroad

Ultimate 3 Week East Coast USA Itinerary (+ 2 and 4 week options)

The USA is not a small country so if you’re planning a trip it’s best to focus on one region and this 3 week East Coast USA itinerary is a great place to start.

This itinerary is really the highlights of the East Coast as it’s impossible to see the whole place in only 3 weeks. However, if you have a bit more time, there’s a 4 week East Coast variation that squeezes more in.

The itinerary is designed to start in New York, which is the easiest place to fly into and ends in Miami so you can choose to fly home from there or return via New York. If you have more time you could continue on cross country to Los Angeles (I did this in reverse on my second USA trip). 

3 week east coast road trip map

How to get around the East Coast on this itinerary

Even though the great American road trip is an iconic experience, and definitely the most flexible way to get around, this East Coast itinerary is designed to be doable by train using Amtrak. I’ve travelled the East Coast by both train and road and both options have their advantages. 

On the whole, trains are a lot cheaper and the rail infrastructure is really good on the East Coast so you won’t find the train schedule particularly limiting. However, if you decide to travel by train you will need to plan ahead as tickets increase in price closer to departure.

If you’re driving, I would recommend picking up your vehicle on the morning of day 4 when you leave New York. You won’t need a vehicle to get around New York and you can save money by not paying for those days, plus you’ll avoid the hassle of parking. 

Where to stay on your 3 week East Coast road trip or train trip

This itinerary doesn’t work very well for campervanning/taking an RV as it includes several big cities without central campsites so you’ll need to book accommodation for each night.

Unfortunately, accommodation on the East Coast of the USA is far from cheap but I have included hostel options where available. 

Affordable independent hotels can also be hard to find so you may want to commit to using one chain of hotels (Marriott or Hilton are the most widely available I found) throughout your trip so you at least end with some loyalty benefits. 

The 3 week East Coast USA road/train trip itinerary

Days 1-3: new york.

There’s no better place to start a USA road trip than the Big Apple, the concrete jungle where dreams are made of…. While you can (and I have) easily spend a week or more in NYC, 3 days is a good amount of time to see the highlights and get a taste.

I recommend structuring this first part of the East Coast itinerary as follows:

• Day 1 – Mid-town Manhattan
• Day 2 – Downtown Manhattan 
• Day 3 – Brooklyn and Uptown

On Day 1 you’ll knock off the big ticket items including Times Square and the Empire State Building . Take a walk around Central Park and window shop on Fifth Avenue.

Start the next day at the bottom of the island with a ferry trip to the Statue of Liberty, either the free Staten Island Ferry or the paid Statue Cruises (I’ve done both and the paid version is worth the money). Then stroll down Wall Street, touch the bull, visit the 9/11 Memorial and grab some noodles in Chinatown.

Finally, make your way across the Brooklyn Bridge, get your photos in DUMBO and eat your way through Time Out Market. Then spend the afternoon taking in thousands of years of art at The Met and seeing how the other half live on the Upper East Side.

To help save money on attractions, try a Go City pass . They have 2 and 3 day all-inclusive passes that would be perfect for this itinerary – click here to see how you can save .

Don’t forget to make time for plenty of pizza slices, lox bagels, pretzels and hot dogs!

• Luxury: Kixby
• Mid-range: Hotel Indigo Downtown
• Budget: HI USA Hostel

Click here to compare NYC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Day 4-5: Boston

Drive: 220 miles – approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Moynihan Train Hall – approx. 4 hours

After the craziness of New York, head up north for a dose of history in Boston. Take your time exploring Boston on foot, the city is super walkable and there are historical monuments almost on every corner. 

There are plenty of walking tours available but I’d recommend just downloading an audio guide for the Freedom Trail and going at your own pace. And don’t miss the Boston Public Library, it might not be on the Freedom Trail but it was my favourite spot.

Boston is no less a foodie city than New York. While you’re there make sure to try a lobster roll, chowder, Boston Cream Pie and of course some Italian food in the North End including one of the famous cannoli from Mike’s or Modern Pastry.

On your second day in Boston, head out to Cambridge to see the Harvard campus (students run walking tours ) and try some of the fun student bars.

If you have extra time, you can take the train out to Salem to explore the witchy museums and filming locations. It’s only a short ride from Boston’s North Station or you can take a day tour from Boston . 

• Luxury: The Liberty Hotel
• Mid-range: Revolution Hotel
• Budget: Found Boston Common

Click here to compare Boston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 6-7: Providence/Newport

Drive: 50 miles – approx. 1 hour

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Back Bay or South Boston – approx. 1 hour

Rhode Island, the smallest state in the USA, might not be on every East Coast road trip plan but it’s very much worth a visit.  

Providence itself is quite a small town with a very compact city centre. The main things to do are to explore the Rhode Island State Capitol – unlike the one in DC, here you’re allowed to just wander around at will and see all the rooms – and the Brown University campus.

The number one reason for coming to Providence however is because it’s the gateway to Newport, which you’ll want to dedicate at least one whole day to seeing. 

Newport is a beautiful seaside town full of cute boutiques and restaurants, but its biggest draw is the Gilded Age mansions.  These homes are straight out of The Great Gatsby and it’s 100% worth spending a few hours touring 2-3 of the mansions, you’ll feel like you’re in a European palace! 

While you’re in Newport check out the Cliff Walk, a stunning (but windy) hike along the ocean. Warm up afterwards with a hot chocolate or some of the famous New England clam chowder.

• Luxury: The Beatrice
• Mid-range: Graduate Providence
• Budget: Courtyard by Marriott Providence Downtown

Click here to compare Providence accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 8-9: Philadelphia 

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Providence – approx. 5.5 hours

If you didn’t get enough American history in Boston then don’t worry, there’s plenty more to find in Philadelphia. 

Historic Philadelphia is quite pretty with its open squares and occasional cobblestone streets. The main attraction here is Independence Hall which you’ll have to be organised to get into as it books out well in advance (despite visiting Philly twice I haven’t managed to go inside yet). 

Even if you miss out on tickets though you can still line up to go see the Liberty Bell across the street and wander through the remains of George Washington’s house. We also really loved the Museum of the American Revolution which is full of Revolutionary memorabilia and well worth a few hours.

One of the best places to go during your Philly stay is Reading Terminal Market. It’s a foodie paradise full of stalls churning out the best local dishes. And if you want to try an infamous Philly Cheese Steak then there are some great ones sold here (just look for the queues).

For a different side of Philly, go tour the Eastern State Penitentiary , once the biggest prison in the US and now incredibly haunting.

• Luxury: The Franklin on Rittenhouse
• Mid-range: The Warwick Hotel Rittenhouse Square
• Budget: Apple Hostels of Philadelphia

Click here to compare Philly accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 10-11: Washington DC

Drive: 150 miles – approx. 2.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Northeast Regional from Philadelphia 30 th  Street – approx. 2 hours

By Day 10 it’s time for a trip to the nation’s capital. One of the best parts of visiting DC is how much you can do there for free. There are so many museums, galleries, monuments and historic buildings to see it’s hard to know where to start.

One piece of advice, make sure to plan and book ahead because many places will book out months in advance or require anyone without an advance booking to queue, sometimes for hours in the full sun. 

If you want to go inside the White House it’s a whole process and to my understanding, you have to be a USA resident (the website says foreigners can book through their embassy but our embassy said they weren’t taking bookings post-COVID).

Some must-dos in DC include a walk along the National Mall, taking in the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial, a tour of The Capitol and seeing the Da Vinci painting in the National Gallery.

• Luxury: Eaton DC
• Mid-range: Lyle DC
• Budget: Hotel Harrington

Click here to compare DC accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 12-13: Charleston

Drive: 600 miles – approx. 9.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Washington Union Station– approx. 10 hours (can be overnight)

After DC it’s time to head south and there are few cities in America’s South prettier than Charleston. This coastal town is famous for it’s stunning antebellum architecture, especially the “Rainbow Row” of colourful mansions.

While you probably don’t need a full two days to see Charleston, the atmosphere of the South is to take things a bit slower, so enjoy having the time to stroll along the oceanfront and take in the views.

Charleston is also great for foodies so this stage of your 3 week East Coast vacation is a great point to try some popular Southern foods including barbecue, grits, biscuits and pies. If you’re wondering where to find these, the Charleston City market is a good place to start with both food and trinket stalls so you can do your souvenir shopping at the same time.

• Luxury: The Palmetto Hotel
• Mid-range: Francis Marion Hotel
• Budget: Holiday Inn Express DWTN

Click here to compare Charleston accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 14-15: Savannah

Drive: 120 miles – approx. 2 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Charleston – approx. 2 hours

If there’s one city that’s more beautiful than Charleston its Savannah, known for its countless squares lined with overhanging Spanish moss and full of graceful fountains and historic statues. 

Savannah is very walkable and the best way to discover it is on foot, popping into the cute boutiques down by the river (don’t miss River Street Sweets) and taking lots of photos. The classic Savannah photo is sitting on the bench from Forrest Gump where Forrest waits for his bus.

While it’s quite cliché and touristy, some fun Savannah activities include a river cruise or a trolley tour of the historic centre. 

You can also take day tours out to the surrounding plantations for a dose of history. Wormslow is the most popular for its photogenic tree-lined drive.

• Luxury: The Gastonian, Historic Inns of Savannah Collection
• Mid-range: Foley House Inn
• Budget: Springhill Suites by Marriott Savannah Downtown Historic District

Click here to compare Savannah accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 16-17: Orlando

Drive: 300 miles – approx. 4 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Star or Silver Meteor from Savannah – approx. 6 hours

It’s theme park time! You’re not on an American vacation without a bit of Disney (or Universal Studios) magic. Orlando is really all about the parks, so pick two and spend a day at each or go all out on one park and work your way around as many rides as you can.

I’ve done Disney World and Universal Studios in Orlando and loved them both, but if you’ve done Disneyland in California then maybe go for something different like SeaWorld.

Personally, I went for the budget accommodation and spent all my cash on park tickets but there are some very fancy resorts in town so you could take the opportunity to stay somewhere nice. You’ll definitely appreciate a nice pool in the Florida heat!

• Luxury: Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
• Mid-range: Hilton Grand Vacations Club Las Palmeras  
• Budget: The Delaney Hotel

Click here to compare Orlando accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 18-19: Miami

Drive: 240 miles- approx. 3.5 hours

Train: Amtrak Silver Meteor from Orlando – approx. 6 hours

Miami is such a unique place, it feels like a mix of Las Vegas and the Caribbean, it’s definitely somewhere you must experience on any East Coast vacation itinerary.

There are so many different sides to the city and you won’t get to see them all in two days but you can make a good start. I’d suggest staying in South Beach to immerse yourself in the beachy, glamorous side of the city but still be close to Downtown and Little Havana.

If you can tear yourself away from the beach, make sure to visit the Wynwood Walls with their famous collection of murals and leave time to explore the greater Wynwood area as there is so much street art around that you don’t have to pay to see. 

Also on the arty side, there are some very cool digital art exhibits in Miami. We went to Artechouse in Miami Beach, which is free to visit with a Go City pass , but Superblue in Downtown Miami is also meant to be amazing.

While you’re in the mainland part of Miami, head to Little Havana for a taste of Cuban-American food and culture. Calle Ocho, the main street of Little Havana, is definitely touristy but it’s still fun to explore, whether you’re keen on joining a game in Domino Park or a dance in one of the Cuban bars.

Finally, Miami is built on the water, so you’ve got to get out in a boat of some kind to see it properly. I’ve tried both the sightseeing cruise option and the speedboat option and they’re both fun experiences in different ways, depending on whether you want an adrenalin-fuelled ride, or you’d rather take it slow and get more commentary on the sights you pass. Both will let you see some of the insane celebrity mansions lining the shores of Miami’s island.

• Luxury: The Betsy Hotel
• Mid-range: Avalon Hotel
• Budget: Freehand Hostel Miami Beach

Click here to compare Miami accommodation prices on Booking.com

Days 20-21: Florida Keys

Drive:  170 miles – approx. 3 hours

Bus (no train option): Grayline or Flix

Even though this East Coast in 3 weeks itinerary didn’t start at the top of the East Coast, it ends at the bottom, at the southernmost point of the USA in the Florida Keys.

While basically all of the Florida Keys are worth visiting, Key West is the best place to base yourself as it has the most accommodation and activity options. It’s a very fun place with a unique mix of chill beachy vibes and party atmosphere.

The drive there from Miami is incredibly scenic, so if you can take it slow and get heaps of photos. If you’re doing this East Coast trip without a car then you can book either a day trip or return transfers with several tour companies including Grayline who I’ve used in the past and can recommend.

While in the Keys, some of the fun things to do include snorkelling, diving, boat cruises and of course eating key lime pie!

• Luxury: Pier House Resort & Spa
• Mid-range: Opal Key Resort & Marina
• Budget: Southwinds Motel

Click here to compare Key West accommodation prices on Booking.com

Alternative: 2 week East Coast itinerary 

This shortened itinerary is very action-packed, suited to fast-paced travellers and those who want to see as much as possible in one trip. 

This is basically what I did on my first East Coast trip (but in reverse) and it definitely left me wanting to return and spend more time. 

• Philadelphia
• Washington DC

Alternative: 4 week East Coast itinerary 

This extended itinerary fits even more in, while also allowing some extra time in the top destinations for those who prefer to take things at a slower pace. 

• Providence/Newport
• Williamsburg
• Florida Keys

In Short: 3 Weeks on the East Coast of the USA

It’s hard to narrow down the best parts of the East Coast to a short itinerary as there’s so much to see and do and there’s no wrong way to see the USA. Hopefully, these East Coast itineraries give you some inspiration to get started.

P.S. Click here to find all of my USA trip-planning guides

Happy travelling!

USA Travel Resources

• Find the best prices on hotels with flexible cancellation at Booking.com
• Find tickets for attractions and awesome day tours on Viator
• Save $$$ on attractions in NYC, LA, Miami and more with a Go City Pass
• Compare prices on cars and campervans at RentalCars.com
• Sort your US dollars with a Wise currency card

Kate is the founder of Kate Abroad. She has travelled to nearly 40 countries from Austria to Vanuatu, and lived in 3. She's on a mission to empower other Gen Zs and Millenials travel affordably by sharing helpful travel guides, stories and tips to over 200,000 readers.

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The following itineraries span the entire length of this incredibly diverse country, from the historic cities of the east, to the deserts of the Southwest and the jaw-dropping Rocky Mountains. Given the vast distances involved, you may not be able to cover everything, but even picking a few highlights will give you a deeper insight into America’s natural and historic wonders.

Recommended USA itineraries

If you are planning your travel to the USA yourself, use these itineraries created by our travel writers as a starting point for inspiration.

USA Itinerary 1 - The National Parks Loop

Only when you traverse the American West will you begin to grasp just how big – and rich in natural beauty – this nation is. Come in summer to enjoy the sunshine and take three to four weeks to complete this trip, making a loop from San Francisco by car.

• Yosemite National Park, CA - Just a 3hr 30min drive from San Francisco, you won’t forget your first tantalizing glimpse of the rocky domes, peaks and waterfalls of Yosemite Valley.
• Death Valley, CA - Leave the snowy Sierras for the lowest, hottest and driest area in North America, with vast dunes and flaming red rocks.
• Zion National Park, UT - Cross over into Utah to explore this spectacular park, with a fifteen-mile canyon hemmed in by reddish walls of sandstone.
• Grand Canyon, AZ - Dip south into Arizona to take in the less crowded northern rim of the Grand Canyon, America’s most awe-inspiring natural wonder.
• Monument Valley, AZ/UT - The iconic Western landscape, with giant fingers of rock soaring up from the dusty desert floor like ancient cathedrals on the Arizona–Utah state line.
• Arches/Canyonlands national parks, UT - Back in Utah, make time for the delicate sandstone arches and myriads canyons, mesas and buttes of these two neighbouring parks.
• Grand Teton National Park, WY - It’s a winding 500 miles north to Jackson and Grand Teton in Wyoming from Arches; from the desert to high alpine Rockies, with the jaw-dropping, jagged Teton ridge at the forefront.
• Yellowstone National Park, WY - Grand Teton merges into Yellowstone, the granddaddy of the national parks, crammed with wildlife, bubbling geysers, lakes and wild, untrammelled scenery.
• Craters of the Moon, ID - Break the long journey back to the West Coast with a stop at Idaho’s Craters of the Moon, a stark landscape of lava fields and sagebrush steppe grasslands.

USA Itinerary 2 - The Deep South and Florida

Hot, sultry, rich in history, culture and some of the greatest music made in America, the Deep South is perhaps the most beguiling part of the USA. Take two or three weeks to see the highlights, travelling by car or by bus, and end up on the beaches of south Florida.

• New Orleans, LA - It’s impossible not to fall in love with this gorgeous city, with its romantic French Quarter, indulgent food, jazz heritage and famously ebullient citizens.
• Mississippi Delta - Soak up the blues heritage in Clarksdale, Mississippi, a five-hour drive north of New Orleans, before leaving the state via Tupelo, the home of Elvis.
• Montgomery, AL - Continue east to the fascinating capital of Alabama, laced with monuments to Martin Luther King, Civil Rights and Hank Williams.
• Atlanta, GA - Make the short journey northeast to the buzzing capital of the South, birthplace of Martin Luther King and home to US icons CNN and Coca-Cola.
• Charleston, SC - Over in South Carolina, this is perhaps the finest old town in all America, enriched by the culture of the nearby Sea Islands.
• Savannah, GA - Cut back into Georgia to absorb the charms of Charleston’s raffish but equally ravishing cousin, a city of moss-tangled squares and historic homes.
• St Augustine, FL - Drop south into Florida to see the oldest town in America, founded by the Spanish in 1565.
• Miami, FL - The Florida coast is studded with great beaches and attractions such as the Kennedy Space Center, but it’s hard to top Miami and fabulous, Art Deco South Beach.
• Key West, FL - End up travelling spectacular US-1 across the Keys to America’s party-hard Caribbean outpost.

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA

USA Itinerary 3 - Classic coast-to-coast

This three-week tour gives a taster of the USA’s iconic landscapes and cities from the East to West coasts, travelling from New York to Los Angeles along sections of historic Rte-66.

• New York, NY - America’s biggest city is home to Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, the Met, Madison Square Garden, the Empire State, Harlem, Brooklyn Bridge and Jay-Z.
• Chicago, IL - America’s third city boasts some serious skyscrapers, top museums, live blues, the Cubs and the Bears, and those deep-dish pizzas.
• Springfield, IL - Immerse yourself in all things Abraham Lincoln at the Illinois state capital, now a virtual shrine to the great American president.
• St Louis, MO - Head south to this old city on the Mississippi, and take the train to the top of the Gateway Arch, a momentous feat of engineering.
• Route 66 - Travelling southwest from St Louis to Oklahoma City be sure to take the Americana-rich remaining stretches of the most iconic US highway.
• Santa Fe, NM - As you continue west on I-40 across New Mexico, detour to the state capital, a glorious ensemble of Spanish adobe and baroque.
• Grand Canyon - I-40 cuts across Arizona via Flagstaff, gateway to one of the grandest, most mind-blowing natural wonders in the world.
• Las Vegas, NV - Around four hours’ drive west of the Grand Canyon lies America’s playground, a confection of mega-casinos and pool parties in the middle of the desert.
• Los Angeles, CA - You’ve made it: watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean at Santa Monica Pier or wacky Venice Beach before soaking up the sights in Hollywood.

USA Itinerary 4 - The Northeast

The northeast and especially New England is rich in history, stunning scenery and invariably empty roads the further north you get. This two- to three-week tour is best experienced by car, but buses are a possible alternative.

• Washington DC - The nation’s capital is crammed with world-class museums and monuments, from the Capitol to the White House.
• Philadelphia, PA - The city of Benjamin Franklin is home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the cheesesteak and Rocky.
• New York, NY - The largest city in the USA drips with global icons, from the Empire State and Brooklyn Bridge to the Statue of Liberty and Broadway theatres.
• Hartford, CT - Visit the Connecticut capital to pay homage to Mark Twain, Harriet Beecher Stowe and the astonishing art at Wadsworth Atheneum.
• Nantucket, MA - Take the ferry to the “Little Gray Lady”, a once great whaling community still redolent of the era of Moby-Dick.
• Provincetown and Cape Cod, MA - Take a day or two to explore the historic towns, tranquil beaches and fish shacks of this hook-shaped peninsula.
• Boston, MA - New England’s lively capital drips with colonial history, but also boasts enticing restaurants, top art museums and some of the USA’s best sports teams.
• White Mountains, NH - Across into New Hampshire the mountains become bigger and wilder, perfect for hiking and biking, and culminating in mighty Mount Washington.
• Acadia National Park, ME - Maine’s coastline of wooded bays and small villages snakes northeast to this pristine section of rolling, mist-shrouded hills, fir forests and lobster pounds.

Sunrise on Half Dome in the Forest, Yosemite National Park, California - Stephen Moehle

USA Itinerary 5 - The West Coast

The north–south journey along the Pacific starts in the rainy, forested northwest and ends at the southern deserts of California (with extensions to Tijuana and Vancouver at either end). You could travel by trains and buses as well as by car.

• Seattle, WA - The home of grunge, Microsoft and Starbucks is now a booming city, with Pike Place Market, the stunning Chihuly Garden, huge salmon and gourmet coffee.
• The Cascades, WA & OR - Travel inland through the Cascade Mountains, where the giant, snow-capped volcanic cones of Mount Rainier, Mount St Helens and Mount Hood loom over the horizon.
• Portland, OR - Rent a bike and cycle Oregon’s hippest city, soaking up the art, organic food, microbrews and kooky shows.
• Crater Lake, OR - Achingly beautiful national park, a vast, waterlogged crater surrounded by a spectacular snowy rim.
• Redwood National Park, CA - Travel south along the Californian coastline, taking in these giant natural beauties.
• San Francisco, CA - One of America’s most appealing cities: historic, progressive, beautifully sited and home to the Golden Gate and Alcatraz.
• Big Sur and Hwy-1, CA - The coastal road between San Francisco and Los Angeles is a scenic, surprisingly wild route of misty cliffs and untouched beaches.
• Los Angeles, CA - Take your pick of iconic ’hoods: Hollywood, Beverly Hills, Malibu, Santa Monica and Venice Beach – or just hit Disneyland and Magic Mountain.
• San Diego, CA - Visit the zoo, SeaWorld or simply hang out at the beach at California’s laidback southern capital, the gateway to Baja.

USA Itinerary 6 - The Great Northern Crossing

Cross the country on the lesser travelled – but blissfully untouched – northern route, taking at least two weeks to drive between Chicago and Seattle.

• Madison, WI - The capital of Wisconsin also happens to be the most attractive college town in the USA, just 2hr 30min drive northwest of Chicago.
• Badlands National Park, SD - It’s a long day of driving across the Great Plains to the Badlands, a truly desolate, magical place, especially at sunrise.
• Black Hills, SD - Forested mountain plateau rising above the plains, home to Mount Rushmore and the equally monumental Crazy Horse Mountain.
• Theodore Roosevelt National Park, ND - Drive into North Dakota to explore the wild, untouched and multicoloured badlands created by the Little Missouri.
• Little Bighorn, MT - Cross into Montana to visit one of America’s most poignant battlefields, where Custer’s 7th Cavalry were trounced by Sitting Bull and Crazy Horse.
• Butte, MT - This shabby old mining town in central Montana is a treasure trove of once grand architecture, old diners and even Cornish pasties.
• Glacier National Park, MT - Northern Montana is dominated by this sensational preserve of glaciers, snowy peaks, alpine lakes and historic lodges.
• Idaho Panhandle - I-90 cuts across this narrow section of Idaho, laced with inviting hiking and biking trails and home to the genuine Western town of Wallace.
• Cascade Loop, WA - End up in Washington, touring the peaks and valleys of the mighty Cascade Mountains before arriving at Seattle and the Pacific Ocean.

With 52 states to explore, you can easily visit the USA for a two-week holiday or spend a few months travelling the country at length. Whatever your timescale or budget, here are some sample itineraries to whet your appetite for travel. Find one you like? Speak to a local USA expert to book your trip today.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 28.04.2021

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3 weeks road trip in USA West Coast: An Epic 20-21 days itinerary

Usa west coast itinerary 3 weeks: the perfect 20-21 days road trip.

You’re planning to spend 3 weeks in the West coast of the USA  and you’re looking for  the best itinerary?

You’re at the right place!

In order  to help you plan your stay , I have prepared for you this 3 weeks itinerary in USA West Coast.

During your  20-21 days trip starting from Los Angeles , you will discover some of  the country’s best places to visit such as the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon and Bryce Canyon.

Then,  you will head to Las Vegas , Yosemite, San Francisco and the California Coast.

In this guide, in addition to the best things to do and must-see attractions, I will also give you all my best tips  as well as my list of the best accommodations  depending on your budget.

So,  how to spend 3 weeks in USA West Coast? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

Renting a car for your 3-week road trip in the USA (West Coast)

Accommodation in los angeles, accommodation in kingman, where to stay around the grand canyon, day 6 – explore the grand canyon’s south rim, where to stay in monument valley, where to stay around lake powell, where to stay in bryce canyon, where to stay in zion national park, where to stay in las vegas, where to stay around death valley, where to stay in mammoth lakes, where to stay in the yosemite, where to stay in san francisco, day 16 – san francisco, day 17 – san francisco, accommodation in monterey, accommodation in pismo beach, day 20 – santa barbara and malibu, day 21 – end of your 3 weeks-itinerary in the american west, 20 or 22 days west coast itinerary, get your esta (electronic system for travel authorization), travel insurance, map of your 3 weeks itinerary in usa west coast, you’re traveling in the us these articles will help you.

To visit the west coast of the United States for 3 weeks, you’ll need a car. Don’t even think about doing this road trip by public transport, it’s impossible!

To rent a car , you should use Rentalcars.com website.

It’s the one I use for all my trips, as it’s super convenient: it allows you to compare all the rental companies’ rates in just one click and book your car rental at the best price!

And if you don’t have an insurance with your credit card, you can opt for the  “Full Protection Insurance” , to be fully refunded in case of accident or theft.  Tested and approved! (They refunded me more than 1200€ to date)

For this itinerary, you will need to rent a car in Los Angeles.

If you already know your travel dates to the American West, symply click on the button below to compare prices and rent your car: 

To rent a car in the United States, you need to:

• Be over 21 years old
• Have a valid license from your country of residence (you must have your driver’s license for at least 12 months)
• Have an international license: it’s not mandatory, but more and more rental companies require it, so it’s better to have it (especially if your driver’s licence is not in English)
• Provide a credit card in the name of the main driver
• Present your passport.

Day 1 / Day 2 / Day 3 – Los Angeles

To visit the USA West coast in 20 or 21 days , you will arrive in Los Angeles (if you prefer to do the same road trip from San Francisco that’s also possible).

When you arrive, pick-up your car in Los Angeles’ airport and go to your hotel.

Once at your hotel, take a good rest to recover from jet lag so you can be at 100% to start your 3-week itinerary in USA the next day.

After a good night’s sleep, let’s visit the city of Los Angeles!

For your 1st full day in Los Angeles, you should visit (in order):

• Hollywood Sign : catch a glimpse of the world-famous Hollywood Sign, an iconic symbol of Los Angeles. You can take the best pictures of the sign from Lake Hollywood Park’s viewpoint . But you can also opt for a walk if you want to go closer. Click here for information and to book!
• Griffith Observatory offers panoramic views of the city and a closer look at the Hollywood sign. If you are interested in space and stars, you can also visit the observatory for free.
• Walk of Fame : Stroll along the Walk of Fame, spotting stars dedicated to celebrities from the world of entertainment. And you can even get your own star (more information here!) .
• Sunset Boulevard : Drive through Sunset Boulevard, known for its lively nightlife and historic music venues.
• Rodeo Drive/Beverly Hills : Experience luxury as you pass by high-end shops on Rodeo Drive in Beverly Hills.
• Do a minibus guided tour of celebrities homes in Beverly Hills.  You need to book it in advance by clicking on the green button below:
• Santa Monica Pier/Pacific Park : Head to Santa Monica Pier to enjoy the Pacific Park amusement park and watch the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.
• Venice Beach : End your day with a relaxed stroll on Venice Beach, famous for its bohemian vibes and Muscle Beach gym. There, you will also find many shops and restaurants, so it’s a great place to have dinner and spend a nice evening!

Spend the night in Los Angeles.

If you don’t want to bother with transport, you should book this guided bus tour , which includes all the stops of my itinerary . It’s super convenient!

Click here to book your full-day guided tour of LA!

On your 2nd day in Los Angeles, it’s time to experience one of the most famous places: let’s go to Universal Studios Hollywood!

This iconic theme park offers thrilling rides, shows, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your favorite films and TV shows.

You can experience the magic of Harry Potter at the Wizarding World, face dinosaurs in Jurassic World , or go on a Studio Tour to witness how movies are made.

And let’s not forget the all-new open world: Super Nintendo Word!

You should dedicate the entire day to the visit, as there’s so much to see and do.

As this is one of the most famous theme parks in the USA, you really need to book your tickets in advance to avoid long waiting times.

You can choose between the “Normal” or “Express” (the best choice if you want to do as many rides as possible!) ticket upon booking:

I can assure you that this day will be one of the best memories of your 3 weeks road trip itinerary on the USA West Coast .

Spend another night in Los Angeles.

To learn more about the best places to visit in Los Angeles, you should read my dedicated article: The 45 best things to do in LA .

As you probably know, hotels are quite expensive in Los Angeles, and the hotels offering the best value for money are fully booked very quickly.

To get the best rate, you should really book your accommodation in L.A as soon as you have your travel dates!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Los Angeles:

• HI Los Angeles – Santa Monica Hostel: Located 200 meters from Santa Monica beach. Dormitory beds from €50. Strong points: cleanliness, location next to the ocean. The perfect hostel if you’re looking for a cheap accommodation in Los Angeles.
• El Royale Hotel – Near Universal Studios Hollywood: Located close to Universal Studios, comfortable and spacious double room from €190, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, free parking, comfortable beds.
• Park Plaza Lodge: Located close to LACMA and Farmers market. Modern and comfortable double room from €190. Benefits: swimming pool, parking, convenient location for sightseeing.
• citizenM Los Angeles Downtown: Located in Downtown Los Angeles, 400 metres from City Hall. Brightly decorated contemporary double room with large window overlooking the city, from €260, breakfast €19. Strong points: design, friendly staff, panoramic view of LA.
• Loews Hollywood Hotel: Located next to the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Beautiful double rooms, some with views of the Hollywood sign, from €255, breakfast €33. Strong points: heated swimming pool, geographical location, direct access to the shopping centre with lots of restaurants and a casino. My favorite hotel in LA for its excellent value for money!
• Pendry West Hollywood: This 5-star hotel on Sunset Boulevard offers sublime, elegantly decorated rooms with large picture windows. From €620 per night, breakfast €56. Strong points: the rooftop pool, the view over Los Angeles, the design of the hotel.
• Shutters On The Beach: Magnificent 5-star hotel located directly on Santa Monica beach. Rooms with balcony and some with ocean views from €880, breakfast €46. Strong points: the view, the good restaurant, the style of the hotel, the swimming pool, the attentive staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Los Angeles!

Day 4 – Route 66 from LA to Kingman

Moving on from Los Angeles, the next part of your 3 weeks road trip itinerary on the West coast leads you to the iconic The Route 66.

This legendary highway, also known as the “Main Street of America”, allows you to discover quirky roadside attractions and beautiful landscapes.

From Los Angeles to Kingman , given the distance (5 hours by car without stops), you should plan one full day for the journey.

Here are the best places to see on the Route 66:

• Elmer’s Bottle Tree Ranch : A unique art installation, where you’ll find hundreds of colorful bottles placed on metal rods, creating a forest of bottle trees.
• Calico Ghost Town : Step back in time in this restored silver mining town from the 1880s. It offers a glimpse of the Wild West with its old buildings and history.
• Bagdad Cafe : Made famous by the movie of the same name, this cafe is a perfect spot for a meal break and some Route 66 souvenirs.
• Amboy Crater : An ancient volcanic cinder cone, where you can take a hike to the top for a panoramic desert view.
• Oatman : A gold mining town, known for its wild donkeys that roam the streets. Don’t forget to catch a staged gunfight, a popular attraction here.
• Kingman : Your stop for the night.
• Arizona Inn: Old-fashioned but clean and comfortable double room, from 76€.
• Baymont by Wyndham Kingman: Double room from €95, breakfast included. The pluses: clean and comfortable, fridge and microwave in the room, good breakfast.
• Best Western Plus King’s Inn and Suites: Double room from €135, breakfast included. Strong points: copious and varied breakfast, large room, swimming pool.
• Best Western Plus A Wayfarer’s Inn & Suites: Double room from €150. Strong points: good bedding, pleasant staff, parking, well-equipped room with fridge.
• La Quinta by Wyndham Kingman: Double room from €190, breakfast at €6. Strong points: swimming pool, Jacuzzi, free parking, recent and modern hotel, spacious rooms.

Day 5 – Route 66 from Kingman to Grand Canyon

Today, the journey on Route 66 continues towards one of the world’s most iconic landmarks, the Grand Canyon.

Before leaving Kingman you should visit the Route 66 Museum. Here, you can learn about the history  of this famed highway.

Then, take the route from Kingman to the Grand Canyon , with plenty of fun stops along the way.

For example, I suggest you stop off at:

• Hackberry General Store : A classic Route 66 roadside stop, this store offers a mix of antiques and photo opportunities with old cars and gas pumps.
• Seligman: A picturesque town on Route 66. It’s a real throwback to simpler times with its retro vibe and vintage cars.
• Williams : Known as the “Gateway to the Grand Canyon”, this charming town offers a slice of Route 66 history with its vintage diners and neon signs.
• Bearizona Wildlife Park : Before reaching the Grand Canyon, make a detour to this drive-through wildlife park. It’s a chance to see North American animals like black bears, bison, and wolves in a natural setting.

Spend the night around the Grand Canyon.

You have 3 different options for sleeping near the Grand Canyon:

• Grand Canyon Village, right on the edge of the Canyon
• The town of Tusayan , 15 minutes from the Grand Canyon
• The town of Williams , an hour from the Grand Canyon

At the Grand Canyon Village, you could sleep at:

• Yavapai Lodge: Double room from €265. Strong points: free parking, the setting, close to the shops.
• Maswick Lodge: Double room from 320€. Strong points: free parking, very big bedroom, close to the best sites and shuttles.

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Tusayan:

• Squire Resort at the Grand Canyon, BW Signature Collection : Double room from 250€. Strong points: indoor and outdoor swimming pool, arcade, friendly staff, perfect location.
• Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel : Double room from 260€. Strong points: free parking, very clean, swimming pool, proximity to the Grand Canyon.
• The Grand Hotel at the Grand Canyon: Double room from 290€. Strong points: the friendliness of the staff, the decoration of the hotel, very comfortable, the peace and quiet.
• Holiday Inn Express Grand Canyon, an IHG Hotel : Double room from 300€. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, close to restaurants, clean, spacious.

Here is my selection of the best hotels in Williams:

• Travelodge by Wyndham Williams Grand Canyon : Double room from 80€, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, free parking, close to shops, fridge and coffee maker in room.
• Ramada by Wyndham Williams/Grand Canyon Area : Double room from 100€. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, clean.
• Comfort Inn near Grand Canyon: Double room from 130€, breakfast included. Strong points: indoor swimming pool, comfort of beds, size of rooms, good breakfast, excellent value for money.
• Quality Inn Near Grand Canyon : Double room from 135€, breakfast included. Strong points: spacious, clean and comfortable room.
• La Quinta by Wyndham Williams-Grand Canyon Area : Double room from 175€, breakfast included. Strong points: new, modern hotel, lovely pool, free parking.

Let’s continue your 3-week road trip itinerary on the USA West Coast : today, you will visit the Grand Canyon!

One of the most celebrated natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon offers breathtaking views, challenging hikes, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

In particular, the South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the most visited and is known for its iconic viewpoints and trails.

Let’s dive into what you should absolutely not miss:

• Yavapai Point : This is one of the best places to get a panoramic view of the Grand Canyon . From here, you can see the Colorado River winding its way through the canyon floor. It’s particularly striking during sunrise or sunset.
• Free Shuttle : The National Park Service provides a free shuttle bus system in the Grand Canyon Village. It’s a convenient way to visit multiple viewpoints and landmarks.  Take the shuttle which runs alongside Hermit Road and stop at the different viewpoints: Mather Point / Trail View Overlook / Powell Point / Hopi Point / Mohave Point / Pima Point.
• Desert View Drive : This is a scenic 25-mile road that takes you from Grand Canyon Village to the Desert View Watchtower. Along the way, there are several viewpoints and pull-offs where you can admire the ever-changing vistas of the canyon. You will need to take your car for this road as there is no shuttle service.
• Bright Angel Trail : If you’re up for some hiking, this is one of the most popular trails. It descends from the rim to the Colorado River, but this is a very difficult hike with a steep gradient (allow between 9 and 12 hours).
• Guided Hummer Tour : For a more adventurous experience, consider taking a guided Hummer tour. These off-road excursions can take you to less-visited viewpoints and offer a thrilling ride along the way. Click here to book it!

A special mention should be given to the Helicopter Tour over the Grand Canyon .

There are few experiences in the world that can compare to flying above the Grand Canyon in a helicopter.

This aerial view gives you a unique perspective of the canyon’s vastness, depth, and the intricate play of light and shadow.

The flight usually lasts around 45 minutes, and you’ll be provided with headsets to hear the pilot’s commentary on the geological wonders and history of the Grand Canyon.

You need to book your helicopter flight by clicking on the button below:

If there is no more availability , you can also book with this other company (click here!) , it’s exactly the same thing.

Spend another night near the Grand Canyon.

There’s an entrance fee for all the national park in USA, which is approximately $30 / 35$ per park.

To save money, I’d recommend buying the “America the Beautiful Pass” , which costs $80 and gives you unlimited access to all the US national parks for 1 year. As long as you visit 3 parks during your stay, you’ll get your money’s worth!

The pass is valid for all occupants of the same vehicle.

You can buy the pass at the ticket booths at the park entrances or at the Visitor Center. 

Day 7 – Monument Valley

On Day 7 of your 3 weeks West Coast itinerary , it’s time to discover the red sands and stunning mesas of Monument Valley.

From Grand Canyon Village to Monument Valley Welcome center, it takes about 3 hours by car.

This landscape has been the backdrop to countless films, advertisements, and television shows.

Situated on the Arizona-Utah state line, Monument Valley is managed by the Navajo Nation .

Here are some of the best things to see:

• The View Hotel : Before visiting the valley itself, start with a visit to The View Hotel. As the name suggests, it offers one of the most breathtaking views of the valley. Even if you’re not staying here, the terrace is open to visitors, and it’s the perfect spot for photography.
• John Ford’s Point : Named after the famous director who shot many Western films here, this viewpoint provides a panoramic vista of the valley’s buttes and mesas.
• Artist’s Point : Another popular viewpoint, Artist’s Point offers varied perspectives of the East and West Mittens and Merrick Butte.
• Three Sisters : These are a trio of thin, towering rock formations that resemble nuns, hence the name. It’s one of the many unique formations in the valley.
• Ear of the Wind : A picturesque arch that’s perfect for a photo op. You should ideally go there in the morning, when the sunlight shines directly through the arch.

When it comes to exploring Monument Valley, you have 2 options:

1) If you’re on a tight budget or prefer to explore at your own pace, you can drive through Monument Valley using the 27 kilometer Valley Drive .

It’s a dirt road that takes you to many of the park’s main viewpoints and formations. A SUV or 4×4 is recommend, as the road can be a bit rough . Always check the weather before going, as the road can become challenging after rainfall.

You will also have to purchase a permit at the Visitor Center.

2) A guided tour is arguably the best way to experience Monument Valley.

These tours are conducted by Navajo guides who provide deeper insights into the history, geology, and culture of the region.

Not only will they take you to the most iconic spots , but they can also guide you to lesser-known areas that are off-limits to general visitors.

Opting for a tour also supports the local Navajo community.

You need to book this guided tour in advance by clicking here:

This excursion is also available in the late afternoon to enjoy the sunset. You can book it here!

Spend the night around Monument Valley.

• Wetherill Inn : Located in the city of Kayenta. Double room from 140€. Strong points: clean, spacious bedroom, good breakfast.
• Goulding’s Lodge : Located in Monument Valley. Double room from 190€. Strong points: the view over Monument Valley, comfortable room, good restaurant, location.
• Hampton Inn Kayenta Monument Valley : Located in Kayenta. Double room from 230€, breakfast included. Strong points: swimming pool, typical Navajo cuisine, excellent breakfast, peace and quiet.

Day 8 – Antelope Canyon / Horseshoe Bend / Lake Powell

Today, you’ll discover 3 other famous landmarks : Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and Lake Powell.

Located on Navajo land, 1.5 hours by car from the town of Kayenta, Antelope Canyon is a slot canyon made up of two parts: Upper Antelope Canyon (also called ‘The Crack’) and Lower Antelope Canyon (known as ‘The Corkscrew’).

The way sunlight dances through the cracks and crevices of these canyons creates a mesmerizing display of colors and shadows.

Visiting Antelope Canyon requires joining a guided tour (you need to book it by clicking on the green buttons below ).

The Navajo guides not only ensure the safety of visitors but also share fascinating stories and insights about the canyon’s formation and cultural significance.

• Upper Antelope Canyon : This section is famous for its light beams, which are best viewed between March and October. As it’s level-ground, it’s more accessible for all visitors. It’s in my opinion the best choice with you do only 1.
• Lower Antelope Canyon : Though it involves some climbing, the effort is rewarded with incredible rock formations and fewer crowds.

A mere 15 minutes away from Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend is where the Colorado River takes a 270-degree turn.

The view from the overlook, standing 1,000 feet above the bend , is nothing short of breathtaking.

Next and last stop of the day: Lake Powell.

A man-made reservoir on the Colorado River, it offers a lot of recreational activities like boating, fishing or simply relaxing by its shores:

• Rent a boat or go on a kayak tour : You can hire a boat or join a kayak tour to visit some of the lake’s famous spots, such as Rainbow Bridge, the largest natural bridge in the world.
• Swim : Designated swimming areas provide relief from the desert heat.

That was another great day of visits! Tonight, you will stay near Lake Powell. Have a good rest and get ready for the next day of your 3-week road trip in the American West!

All the hotels I’ve selected are in the town of Page, close to Lake Powell:

• Rodeway Inn at Lake Powell : Double room from 100€, breakfast included. Strong points: spacious room, clean, comfortable bedding.
• Baymont by Wyndham Page Lake Powell : Double room from 100€, breakfast included. Strong points: free parking, good breakfast, swimming pool and jacuzzi.
• Days Inn & Suites by Wyndham Page Lake Powell : Double room from 140€, breakfast included. Strong points: nice outdoor area with the swimming pool and jacuzzi, bedroom with sitting area and kitchenette, close to bars and restaurants.
• Best Western View of Lake Powell Hotel : Double room from 160€, breakfast included. Strong points: superb views from the terrace, ideal location, comfortable and spacious room.
• Country Inn & Suites by Radisson, Page, AZ : Double room from 170€, breakfast included. Strong points: friendly staff, modern rooms, swimming pool, jacuzzi, gym.

Day 9 – Bryce Canyon

On Day 9, you will discover the otherworldly landscape of Bryce Canyon (a 2h40-minute drive from Lake Powell).

Known for its hundreds of fairy chimneys (also called “Hoodos”) , this national park is unlike any other.

The myriad viewpoints, scenic drives, and breathtaking trails make it a must-visit on any American west coast 3-week road trip.

As mentioned above, the most iconic features of Bryce Canyon are the hoodoos – peculiar rock pillars shaped by centuries of erosion. These spire-like formations range in size and color, creating a visual spectacle that captivates visitors from around the world.

Stretching for 29 kilometers, the Bryce Canyon Scenic Drive offers some of the park’s best panoramic views.

If time allows, you should drive the entire route, but if you’re in a hurry, you should focus on these viewpoints:

• Bryce Point : This viewpoint provides a sweeping look at the Bryce Amphitheater and its numerous hoodoos.
• Inspiration Point : Offering three levels of viewpoints, this spot gives visitors different perspectives of the main amphitheater.
• Sunset Point : As the name suggests, it’s a prime location to witness the sunset over the canyon.

Bryce Canyon also boasts a variety of trails tailored to different fitness levels.

Two of the most popular are:

• Navajo Loop Trail + Queen’s Garden Trail : Combining these trails forms a loop. Starting from Sunset Point, the Navajo Loop descends into the amphitheater, passing the Two Bridges and Thor’s Hammer. Connecting with the Queen’s Garden Trail, you’ll meander through the floor of the canyon, reaching a rock formation that resembles Queen Victoria.
• Peek-A-Boo Loop : This 9 kilometers trail offers a close-up view of the park’s hoodoos and is best suited for experienced hikers. Starting at Bryce Point, the loop takes you deeper into the park, showcasing some of its most intricate rock formations.

If you don’t fancy taking your car to explore the park or if you want to add a fun activity during the day, there are several other ways to discover Bryce Canyon:

• Free shuttle buses
• A minivan tour with a local guide
• A quad bike tour
• Hiking with a guide
• Horse riding
• Guided E-bike tour
• A horse-drawn wagon ride.

All the hotels are located in Bryce Canyon City, just before the entrance to the national park.

• Bryce Canyon Pines : Double room from 160€. Strong points: clean, good restaurant, swimming pool.
• Bryce View Lodge Part of the Ruby’s Inn Resort : Double room from 185€, breakfast included. Strong points: big parking, quiet, indoor swimming pool.
• Best Western PLUS Ruby’s Inn : Double room from 200€, breakfast included. Strong points: good breakfast and restaurant, big indoor swimming pool, spacious and comfortable bedroom.
• Best Western PLUS Bryce Canyon Grand Hotel : Double room from 300€, breakfast included. Strong points: pleasant staff, heated swimming pool, free parking.

Day 10 – Zion National Park: The Red Rock Wonderland

Zion National Park is a 1h45 drive from Bryce Canyon. 

Renowned for its colossal red cliffs, emerald pools, and narrow canyons , Zion is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

You will for sure love its massive sandstone cliffs painted in hues of cream, pink, and red, standing tall against the blue sky.

While you can drive into Zion National Park, some areas are accessible only by the park’s shuttle bus during the high-visitation months.

Here’s what you should know:

• Own Car : Having your vehicle allows flexibility, especially for areas outside the main canyon. However, parking can be challenging to find during peak times.
• Shuttle Bus : Zion’s free shuttle service is not just eco-friendly but also convenient. Running frequently, the shuttles stop at major viewpoints and trailheads. Plus, you won’t have to worry about finding a parking spot. If you’re targeting popular trails like the Narrows or Angel’s Landing, the shuttle is your best bet.

Given the park’s popularity, using the shuttle system can save you a lot of time.

Talking about the trails:

• The Narrows : As one of the most famous hikes in the park, The Narrows has you wading through the Virgin River.

The river serves as your trail, and the hike can be as short as a few hours or an all-day affair. Ensure you have the right footwear as the riverbed is rocky.

The cool water and the towering walls on either side provide an experience unlike any other.

• Angel’s Landing : This hike is not for the faint-hearted.

While the initial segments are pretty straightforward, the final half-mile requires you to navigate a narrow ridge with steep drop-offs.

However, your efforts are rewarded with a panoramic view of the Zion Canyon. If you have a fear of heights (like me!), this might be a challenge.

The park also offers several activities (click on the orange links for more info and to book):

• Visit on horseback
• Sunset jeep tour
• Star-gazing with a guide
• Helicopter flight

All the hotels are located in Springdale, just before the entrance to the national park.

• Zion Park Motel : Double room from 130€. Strong points: free parking, heated swimming pool, fridge and microwave in the room, shuttle bus to the park stops right outside.
• La Quinta by Wyndham at Zion Park/Springdale : Double room from 190€,breakfast included. Strong points: nice area with swimming pool, clean and spacious room, view over the mountain
• Holiday Inn Express Springdale – Zion National Park Area, an IHG Hotel : Double room from 270€. Strong points: hearty breakfast, nice swimming pool with view, great welcome.
• Best Western Plus Zion Canyon Inn & Suites : Double room from 350€. Strong points: well-maintained, clean and well-tended complex, top-notch breakfast, beautiful swimming pool.
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott Springdale Zion National Park : Double room from 400€, breakfast included. Strong points: magnificent hotel decorated with great taste, beautiful room and large bathroom, magnificent setting, excellent breakfast.

Day 11 – Las Vegas

Next stop on your 3-week USA West Coast trip itinerary is Las Vegas , nestled in the heart of the Nevada desert.

It takes over 2h45 to drive from Zion to Las Vegas, often referred to as “The Entertainment Capital of the World”.

Even if you’re not into gambling , there’s plenty to keep you entertained on the bustling Strip.

The Las Vegas Strip is a 6.5 km stretch of Las Vegas Boulevard lined with mega-resorts, casinos, restaurants, shops, and performance venues.

If it’s your first time in Vegas or you’re just looking for the best highlights, here’s a route you can follow:

• Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas Sign : Kick off your Vegas journey with a photo-op at this iconic sign.
• New York New York : Experience a slice of the Big Apple in Vegas. Marvel at the replica of the Statue of Liberty and for the thrill-seekers, take a ride on the Big Apple Coaster .
• MGM Grand : One of the largest hotels in the world, you can spot the MGM Grand by its signature emerald green. Step inside for a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
• Bellagio and Fountain Show : A must-see, the Bellagio fountains put on a mesmerizing water show choreographed to music. Time your visit for the evening when the show is at its most magical.
• Paris and Eiffel Tower : Fancy a trip to Paris? Visit the half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy panoramic views of the city:

• Caesars Palace : Dive into Roman opulence at Caesars Palace. Wander its sprawling grounds, try your hand at the casino, or simply soak in its grandeur.
• The Venetian : End your strip tour in Venice – or at least, Vegas’s version of it. With gondola rides and its recreation of Venice’s landmarks, The Venetian offers a unique blend of gaming and romantic escapism.

While the Strip gets all the attention, I’d also recommend a visit to downtown Las Vegas and the Fremont Street Experience in particular.

A five-block entertainment district, this area is famed for its LED canopy, free concerts, street performers, and historic casinos.

It offers a different, more vintage Vegas vibe compared to the Strip.

Spend one night in Las Vegas.

Don’t hesitate to read my article about the city to learn more about the best places to visit: The 30 best things to do in Las Vegas.

When the sun sets, Las Vegas truly comes alive. Here are some nighttime activities you should consider:

• Try the Fly Linq Zipline Las Vegas (book it here!) .
• Ascend the STRAT observation platform (book your tickets here!) at sunset for breathtaking views of the city.
• Experience the city’s from the Ferris wheel (click here to book!) .
• Attend a show! Whether it’s a magic act , a comedy show , or a grand performance like Cirque du Soleil , Las Vegas’s offers some of the best shows in the world.
• Embark on an helicopter tour to fly over the iconic Las Vegas strip!

There are a lot of hotels in Las Vegas, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you  the best hotels in Las Vegas depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should  book your hotel as early as possible*!

*And a little clarification: in Las Vegas prices can explode for weekends or if there is a special event during a the day of the week. For example, you can have a night at Caesars Palace for €140 and the next day it will be €1,600.

Please note that prices “start from”, they can vary greatly (and I’ve got nothing to do with that 😅).

In any case, I can always help you find a hotel within your budget if you ask me in the comments.

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay at on the Strip:

• Excalibur: With its castle-themed structure, it’s a hit among families and offers affordable rates starting at 70€ per night. Strong points: comfortable beds, size of rooms, price. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation on the Las Vegas Strip!
• Luxor: Have you ever dreamt of sleeping in a pyramid? Well, in Las Vegas you can! Double room from €80. Strong points: helpful staff, big bedroom, connected to Excalibur and Mandalay hotels.
• Caesars Palace Hotel & Casino: This famous 5-star hotel on the Strip offers rooms from €140. Strong points: its architecture, beautiful pools, nice and clean rooms.
• Treasure Island Hotel & Casino: Double room from 170€. Plus points: spacious room, fridge in the room, great location on the strip, self check-in so you don’t have to wait, self parking.
• Paris Las Vegas Hotel & Casino: Hotel located opposite the Eiffel Tower. Double room from 225€. Strong points: good restaurants, room and hotel decor, very comfortable.
• Las Vegas Hilton at Resorts World : Double room from 290€. Strong points: room and facilities are new, great pool area, super comfy bed, super clean. This is my recommendation for a top-of-the-range stay in Las Vegas!
• Bellagio: I can’t forget to mention the Bellagio in my selection of the most beautiful hotels in Las Vegas! The hotel offers sumptuous rooms from €480. Strong points: very luxurious, perfect location for exploring the Strip, fountain view. This is my recommendation for a deluxe stay in Las Vegas!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay in Downtown Las Vegas / Fremont Street:

• The D Las Vegas: Double room from 75€. Strong points: the price, friendly staff, clean, free parking.
• Downtown Grand Hotel & Casino: Nice and clean double room from 85€. Strong points: pool terrace, comfortable bed, great location, big room.
• Golden Nugget Hotel & Casino Las Vegas: Double room from 110€. Strong points: free parking, huge room.
• Circa Resort & Casino – Adults only: Double room from 180€. Strong points: rooftop bar, swimming pool area, new and modern.

Day 12 – Death Valley

Today, you will head to one of the most popular landscapes in the USA: Death Valley.

Allow around 2 hours 15 minutes’ drive from Las Vegas.

Often referred to as the “hottest place on Earth”, Death Valley holds the record for the highest air temperature ever recorded on Earth , a scorching 134°F (56.7°C).

Death Valley is also renowned for its landscapes, ranging from towering mountain peaks to vast salt flats, and from sand dunes to unique rock formations.

For your visit, you should take the Badwater Road is a scenic drive that showcases some of the most iconic spots in Death Valley.

Here are the essential stops:

• Badwater Basin : This is the lowest point in North America, sitting at 86 meters below sea level. The salt flats here give the area its surreal, otherworldly feel.
• Dante’s View : For a panoramic view of the valley, especially during sunrise or sunset, Dante’s View is the place to be. At 1,669 meters, it provides an elevated vantage point over the park.
• Devil’s Golf Course : This vast expanse of jagged salt formations got its name from the saying that “only the devil could play golf on such a surface”.
• Artists Palette : This is a spot where minerals have colored the rocks in hues of pink, green, and purple.
• Golden Canyon : A popular hiking spot, this canyon offers trails that lead to the Red Cathedral and the Gower Gulch, with beautiful vistas all along the way.

While driving along Badwater Road, always remember to carry plenty of water, keep your car’s AC working, and avoid hiking during peak afternoon hours.

• El Portal Motel : Located in Beatty. Double room from 90€. Strong points: free parking, outdoor swimming pool, clean.
• The Ranch At Death Valley : Located in Furnace Creek. Double room from 150€. Strong points: comfortable, nice swimming pool and outdoor area, ideal location.
• The Inn at Death Valley : Located in Death Valley. Double room from 320€. Strong points: the garden, the setting, the pool, provision of buggies to get around.

Day 13 – Mammoth Lakes

From Death Valley, allow 4 hours’ drive to get to Mammoth Lakes.

Nestled in California’s Eastern Sierra , this alpine haven is a gem that beckons travelers with its shimmering lakes, mountains, and dense forests.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation or adventure , Mammoth Lakes has something for you.

Known primarily for its world-class ski resorts in winter, Mammoth Lakes transforms into a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts during the warmer months.

Here’s what you can expect:

• Crystal Clear Lakes : As the name suggests, the area boasts numerous lakes. You should consider visiting Twin Lakes, Lake Mary, Lake George, and Horseshoe Lake, each offering unique vistas and recreational activities like fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
• Scenic Drives and Viewpoints : The drive to Minaret Summit offers panoramic views of the Ritter Range, while the June Lake Loop provides glimpses of lush meadows, aspen groves, and beautiful alpine lakes.
• Hiking Trails : the area around Mammoth Lakes is dotted with hiking trails ranging from easy walks to challenging treks. Trails like the Mammoth Crest, Crystal Lake, and the trail to Rainbow Falls come highly recommended.
• Hot Springs : After a day of exploring, you can unwind at one of the natural hot springs in the vicinity. Wild Willy’s Hot Springs and the Hot Creek Geothermal Area are among the favorites.

The town of Mammoth Lakes itself has a charm of its own.

With its cozy eateries, local boutiques, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, it’s the perfect place to relax before the next leg of your USA West Coast trip itinerary in 3 weeks .

• Alpenhof Lodge : Double room from 145€. Strong points: close to the lakes and the town centre, quiet, very comfortable.
• Cinnamon Bear Inn : Double room from 170€, breakfast included. Strong points: very warm welcome, good breakfast.
• Empeiria High Sierra Hotel : Double room from 190€. Strong points: modern, pleasant, very clean, laundry and swimming pool.
• Juniper Springs Resort : Flat for up to 6 people from €250.Strong points: real kitchen well equipped for cooking, spacious, friendly staff, barbecue.
• The Village Lodge : Studios and flats from 260€. Strong points: facilities, swimming pool, Netflix, size of accommodation, terrace with views, free parking.

Day 14 – Yosemite

From Mammoth Lakes, it will take you around 2 and a half hours to get to the Yosemite.

While it’s impossible to cover all the attractions of the National Park in a day, here’s how to make the most of your time:

• Yosemite Valley

The heart of the park, this seven-mile-long canyon is home to some of Yosemite’s most famous landmarks.

You can start your day early with a visit to Tunnel View, offering panoramic vistas of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and the distant Half Dome.

Yosemite National Park is home to some of the tallest waterfalls in North America .

Don’t miss the Yosemite Falls, the tallest of them all, cascading from a height of 739 meters. Bridalveil Fall and Vernal Fall are also worth a look. The waterfalls are even more impressive during Spring season, as it’s at that time that the water flow is the strongest.

• Glacier Point

For an unparalleled view of the park, you should drive up to Glacier Point. Gazing at the vast expanse of the park with Half Dome standing proudly in the center is a great experience.

Note: The road to Glacier Point is usually open from late May to November, depending on snow conditions.

• Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias: Home to over 500 mature giant sequoias .

Walking amid these ancient trees, some of which are over 3,000 years old , will make you feel really small!

Considering the vastness of Yosemite, you can either explore the park in your own vehicle or opt for the park’s shuttle service. The shuttle service is an excellent choice as it reduces traffic inside the park and is environmentally friendly.

Also, remember that some areas in Yosemite require day-use reservations, so plan ahead and don’t forget to check the official website.

You should end your day by admiring the sunset at Valley View.

• Yosemite View Lodge : Double room from 300€. Strong points: nice view, quiet, 4 pools, room with kitchenette.

Day 15 – From Yosemite to San Francisco

Day 15 of your west coast America road trip in 3 weeks takes you towards the buzzing city of San Francisco.

But before you get there, there are a few stops to make.

As you approach San Francisco, take a slight detour to visit Muir Woods National Monument. Home to towering coast redwood trees, some of which have been standing for over 800 years, this forest is perfect for a walk.

Allocate a few hours to explore the main trail, which is easily accessible. If time allows, you can venture onto the Dipsea Trail or the Ben Johnson Trail for more extensive hikes.

Please note that parking reservations are mandatory here, so make sure to book your parking space on the official website before going.

Next, you will go to the coastal town of Sausalito.

Perched on the northern end of the Golden Gate Bridge , this town is a delightful blend of Mediterranean ambiance and Californian charm.

Wander along the waterfront, dotted with unique boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants. The floating homes , typical of Sausalito, are worth a look!

For a panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge , the bay, Angel Island, and San Francisco in the background, you should head to Vista Point and Battery Spencer viewpoint.

Of course, you can’t go to San Francisco without crossing the iconic Golden Gate Bridge,  that’s what I suggest you do now.

This art deco suspension bridge is more than just a roadway: the symbol of San Francisco offers unparalleled views of the bay, Alcatraz Island, and the city skyline.

After these pit stops, San Francisco awaits!

There are a lot of hotels in San Francisco, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you  the best hotels in San Francisco, depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should  book your hotel as early as possible!

• HI San Francisco Downtown Hostel: Youth hostel located in Union Square. Beds in dormitories from €50. Strong points: location, warm welcome, friendly atmosphere. An excellent choice for cheap accomodation in San Francisco!
• Grant Hotel: Located 5 minutes’ walk from Union Square. Rooms are decorated in a slightly old-fashioned style but are spacious and clean from €105 per night. Strong points: location, free coffee and biscuits, friendly staff.
• Greenwich Inn: Located between Presidio Park and Fisherman’s Wharf. Double room from €150 per night. Strong points: free parking, warm welcome, spacious room, plenty of restaurants in the area.
• Handlery Union Square Hotel: Located in Union Square. Very spacious and comfortable double room with large windows from €210. Strong points: outdoor swimming pool, perfect for visiting San Francisco, comfortable beds.
• Riu Plaza Fisherman’s Wharf: Located in Fisherman’s wharf. Modern, comfortable double room from €270, breakfast included. Strong points: outdoor swimming pool, location, good breakfast, very helpful staff.
• Hotel Nikko San Francisco: Located in Union Square, this 5-star hotel offers tastefully decorated rooms from €500. Strong points: indoor pool, spa, attentive staff, design, valet parking.

Here are the best things to do on your first day in San Francisco:

1) The Presidio and viewpoints over the Golden Gate

Start your day at the Presidio, a former military post turned national park. Here, you’ll find multiple vantage points offering spectacular views of the Golden Gate Bridge, especially from Fort Point, Golden Gate Overlook , or Crissy Field.

2) Walt Disney Family Museum  

Nestled within the Presidio, this museum is a must-visit for Disney fans. Walk through galleries filled with early drawings and cartoons that trace Walt Disney’s life and innovations. The miniature model of Disneyland is a particular highlight.

3) Palace of Fine Arts: A short drive from the Presidio, the Palace of Fine Arts, with its Greco-Roman architecture, is the perfect place to snap a few nice pictures.

4) Alcatraz or San Francisco Bay Cruise

Head to Pier 33 and embark on a journey to t he infamous Alcatraz Island.

To visit Alcatraz, you need to book your tickets in advance by clicking on the green button below:

If prisons aren’t your thing, opt for a Bay Cruise , where you can enjoy views of the city, the Golden Gate, and the surrounding islands.

5) Fisherman’s Wharf + sea lions at Pier 39

A bustling hub of activity, Fisherman’s Wharf is full of seafood restaurants, quirky shops, and street performers.  This is the perfect place to have your lunch.

And don’t forget to go to Pier 39 to witness the playful antics of the resident sea lions.

6) Lombard Street

Known as the “crookedest” street in the world, this steep hill with eight hairpin turns is both a driving challenge and a tourist favorite.

Whether you take it by car or on foot, this street, lined with classic San Francisco houses, is well worth a visit.

7) Coit Tower: For a panoramic view of San Francisco, head to Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill. The frescoes inside the tower, painted during the Great Depression, add a touch of history to your visit.

8) Chinatown: Dive into the rich culture and history of the oldest and one of the largest Chinatowns in North America .

9) Ferry Building Marketplace: End your day at this historic building turned gourmet marketplace. With a range of artisanal shops and cafes, it’s the perfect spot to grab a bite and relax by the bay.

Spend a second night in San Francisco.

You can find all the details about the best things to do in San Francisco in my dedicated article: The 27 Best Things to Do in San Francisco.

To visit San Francisco and save money , you should buy the San Francisco All-inclusive pass by Go City. 

The pass is valid for 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 days and give access to more than 30 tourist attractions .

Here are some of the activities included:

• San Francisco Bay Cruise
• Aquarium of the Bay
• Fisherman’s wharf walking tour
• Entrance to all the museums
• Chinatown walking tour
• Mission district tour.

For more information about this pass and the activities included, click on the button below :

Has you had a glimpse of San Francisco’s best places to visit yesterday, it’s now time to explore the most beautiful districts of the city.

Start with the Golden Gate Park.

Wander along the tranquil pathways, relax by the lakes, or visit the picturesque Japanese Tea Garden.

For those with a penchant for the arts and sciences, you have the choice between:

• de Young Museum : This fine arts museum houses a collection ranging from American art to African and Oceanic artifacts.
• California Academy of Sciences : A natural history museum, aquarium and planetarium rolled into one, the perfect visit for the curious minds.

Then, head to  The Haight Ashbury district.  Once the heart of the 1960s counterculture Hippie movement , today it’s a neighborhood filled with vintage stores, quirky boutiques, and a rich musical history.

Not far away, you will find the Painted Ladies.

These Victorian and Edwardian houses , painted in multiple colors, are an iconic sight. You will get a great view over the Painted Ladies from Alamo Square .

Next, I’d like to recommend 2 other areas to walk around in San Francisco:

• Mission District: Home of Hispanic culture in San Francisco, it’s the place to taste authentic tacos and burritos. It’s also home to a lot of murals, which depict the district’s history and cultural diversity.
• Castro District: Known as the gay district, the Castro brims with history. The Castro Theatre, a city landmark, often hosts classic movie screenings or drag queen show.

And if you like modern art, you should visit the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art.

As the evening approaches, head to Union Square.

It’s the city’s main shopping, dining, and entertainment hub. Whether you’re looking to shop high-end brands, dine at a local bistro, or simply watch the world go by, Union Square is the perfect spot.

Spend a third night in San Francisco.

Day 18 – Monterey and Carmel by the sea

Today, you will head south from San Francisco to disocver the Pacific Coast .

On the Road from San Francisco to Monterey, you can make a few stops at:

• Half Moon Bay: This quaint town is known for its sandy beaches and eateries. Perfect for a short break and to have your morning coffee!
• Pescadero: Here, you can visit the Pigeon Point Lighthouse and perhaps spot some seals lounging around.
• Santa Cruz: With its iconic boardwalk and lively surf culture, it’s an essential stop for beach enthusiasts.

Upon arrival in Monterey, you can visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

Then, take a stroll on Cannery Row. Once the center for sardine-packing factories, it’s now a bustling waterfront street with shops, eateries, and historical buildings. 

You should also pass by the Fisherman’s Wharf. Here, you can indulge in seafood delicacies, shop for souvenirs, or embark on a whale watching tour.

Monterey Bay is famous for being home to many species of whales. Whatever the time of year , you’re guaranteed to see them!

The boat trip is also commented by a biologist who will teach you more about these extraordinary marine mammals.

Book your whale-watching cruise in Monterey by clicking here:

A short drive from Monterey, Carmel by the sea offers a different vibe.

With its pretty cottages and art galleries , it has a charm that’s hard to resist.. Here are some things to do:

• Carmel Beach: Known for its soft white sands and cypress trees, it’s an idyllic spot for a leisurely walk
• Downtown Carmel: Meander through the cobblestone streets, visit the boutiques, and enjoy the artistic aura of the town. If you’re an art enthusiast, there are numerous galleries showcasing local talents.
• Carmel Mission: A historic Spanish mission founded in 1770, it stands as a testament to California’s early history.
• Arbor Inn Monterey: Double room from 110€. Strong points: cleanliness, location, peace and quiet.
• Casa Munras Garden Hotel & Spa: Double room from €180. Strong points: swimming pool, a warm welcome, comfortable beds.
• Svendsgaard’s Inn: Double room from €200. Strong points: free parking, close to the sea, quiet.
• Carmel Bay View Inn: Double room from €240. Strong points: room with sea view, free parking, spacious, close to shops, restaurants and beach.
• Carmel Beach Hotel: Double room from €440, breakfast included. Strong points: on the seafront, very comfortable bed, very friendly staff.

Day 19 – Discover California coast on Highway 1

Let’s continue your 20-21 days itinerary in western USA.

Today, you will experience one of the most scenic routes in the USA: Highway 1.

This stretch, from Carmel to Pismo Beach , offers magnificent ocean views and plenty of stops.

With the Pacific Ocean on one side and the rugged California coastline on the other, Highway 1 is the perfect road for a road trip!

On the road, you shouldn’t miss:

• Big Sur with the Bixby Creek Bridge , a symbol of the California coast and Pfeiffer Big Sur State Park, where you can wander among the redwoods and even see a waterfall or two.
• San Simeon, where you can visit the Hearst Castle and go to Elephant Seal Vista Point to witness the spectacle of elephant seals in their habitat.
• Cambria, a picturesque coastal town
• Harmony: this tiny town boasts a rich history of dairy farming. You can visit Harmony Glassworks to see glass blowing in action or Harmony Pottery for beautiful handcrafted goods.
• Harmony Cellars: A little outside the town, it’s a spot where you can enjoy wine tasting with views of the rolling countryside.
• Morro Bay and Morro Rock: This imposing volcanic plug is the centerpiece of Morro Bay and offers a perfect backdrop for photos.
• San Luis Obispo: Often termed as the happiest city in America, you should stroll through its downtown and visit the historic Mission San Luis Obispo.

The town of Pismo Beach is your final destination for the day. It’s known for its large sandy beaches.

• Edgewater Inn and Suites: Double room from €140. Strong points: by the ocean, heated swimming pool, close to shops.
• The Grove at Pismo Beach: Double room from €150. Strong points: clean, perfect for an overnight stay.
• Cottage Inn by the Sea: Double room from €260. Strong points: heated outdoor swimming pool, the magnificent view, the waterside location.
• SeaCrest Oceanfront Hotel: Double room from €320, breakfast included. Strong points: the design of the hotel, facing the beach and ocean, good breakfast, elegant rooms.
• Inn at the Cove: Double room from €350, breakfast included. Strong points: beautiful, modern and spacious rooms with superb sea views, jacuzzi and heated swimming pool.

Today, you will continue on Highway 1 towards Los Angeles.

On the way, I suggest you first stop off to visit Solvang Danish Village.

As you stroll around Solvang, you’ll discover windmills and traditional Danish buildings . It’s for sure very different that what you’ve seen in California so far!

After your visit, get back in your car and drive to Santa Barbara.

The main place to visit there is State Street. Lined with shops, restaurants, and galleries , it’s the heart of the city.

You can also visit the Santa Barbara Courthouse whic offers panoramic views of the city from its clock tower and Santa Barbara Mission for a peek into California’s colonial past.

From Santa Barbara, it will take 1h30 by car to reach Malibu.

There are 2 famous beaches in Malibu:

• Zuma Beach: Known for its wide sandy stretches, Zuma is ideal for sunbathing, surfing, or simply enjoying the ocean views.
• El Matador Beach: this beach is renowned for its sea caves and rock formations.

Reach Los Angeles for the last night of your 3-week stay in the American West.

And that’s it, you have discovered the best of Western USA in 3 weeks!

Head to Los Angeles airport  to catch your return flight.

If you only have 20 days to visit the West coast , you should remove a day in San Francisco or Los Angeles.

On the contrary, if you’ve got 22 days for your West coast road trip , you can add a day in one of the National parks , depending on your preferences.

Tips before setting off on your road trip in the USA

Here are some tips to consider before embarking on a road trip in the USA.

If you don’t live in the US, it’s mandatory. You can’t enter the country without it. 

• What is it? It’s an online application system introduced by the U.S. government to pre-screen travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries.
• Before You Apply: Ensure your country is a member of the VWP.
• Duration: It’s typically valid for two years or until the traveler’s passport expires, whichever comes first.

Apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your travel.

Use only the official website to avoid scams.

• Why is it Important? Medical care in the U.S. is extremely expensive. Having insurance is the only way to avoid unexpected medical bills and other travel-related mishaps.
• Coverage: The basic insurances cover medical emergencies, and more expensive ones also cover trip cancellations and lost luggage.

On my side, I always opt for ACS: it’s a great deal and they are very reliable. You can check their price and purchase your travel insurance by clicking here.

I already talked about that at the beginning at this article but here is a quick reminder. To drive in the US, here are the important things to know:

• International Driving Permit (IDP): If your driver’s license is not in English, or if you’re planning to rent a car, it’s a good idea to get an IDP from your home country.
• American cars are usually automatic. If you’re not used to it, learn the basic functions and controls before hitting the road.
• Stay Updated: Download navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates.

To help you visualize your itinerary a bit better, I’ve created a map of all the best places to visit during your 3 weeks in the USA.

You can display the map legend by clicking the button with a small arrow located in the top left corner.

Don’t hesitate to ask me your question if you need help to plan your 3-week itinerary in the USA!

Discover all my articles about USA : All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• Itinerary: 2 weeks USA West coast – The perfect 14-15 days road trip!
• Las Vegas: Top 30 Best things to do and must-see attractions
• Los Angeles: The 45 best places to visit
• New York: The 57 best things to do
• San Francisco: The 27 best things to do and must-see attractions
• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary
• 4 Days in New York – The perfect itinerary for your visit
• One Week in New York – The perfect 7-day itinerary

You’re using Pinterest? Here is the picture to pin!

Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

Related Stories

2 days in Los Angeles: the Epic Itinerary + tips

3 days in Los Angeles: the perfect Itinerary + tips

Where to stay in New York? The best areas and places to stay

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The Ultimate 3-Week Road Trip Across North America 2024

Are you embarking on the ultimate 3-week road trip across north america in 2023.

After a long few years of on and off travel restrictions, this 3-week road trip across North America is the ultimate way to break out of your comfort zone and start seeing the world again.

You’ll be exposed to some amazing sights, get the opportunity to meet interesting people, and possibly even get the chance to capture some amazing wildlife on film!

You’ve likely traveled by plane, train, boat, and scooter before, but, perhaps it’s time for a new adventure… say, a car or van, perhaps?

Before you hit the open road, there are a few things you need to do to make sure your trip goes smoothly, however, which is exactly where I come in.

In this article, I have provided you with a detailed 3-week North American itinerary, all the information you need to know about planning a road trip, important safety tips, and much more.

My goal for you is after reading this article, you’ll be ready to pack your bags and embark on the journey of your lifetime. So, let’s get to it!

Table of Contents

Week 1: massachusetts to colorado, week 2: colorado to british columbia, week 3: british columbia to prudhoe bay, alaska (the arctic circle), map of this 3 week road trip across north america, the best time to visit the u.s., how to get around the u.s., where to stay in the u.s. on a road trip, what to eat on a 3-week road trip across america, what to pack for a 21-day usa road trip, tips for planning a u.s. road trip, safety tips for going on a 3-week road trip across america, faq: 3-week road trip across america, the ultimate 3-week road trip across north america itinerary.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We also earn from other affiliate programs. This means we may receive a small commission on products purchased through our links at no extra cost to you.

This 21-day USA itinerary marks its beginning on the East Coast in the iconic city of Boston, Massachusetts.

From this popular South Shore city, you’ll make your way through the central United States, heading northwest from Colorado through Canada’s territories, and finally ending in the Arctic Circle where you’ll step foot in one of the northernmost cities in the world!

Of course, there will be plenty of national park stops along the way for the avid nature enthusiast, like myself.

The goal of this itinerary is to get from as far East Coast to as far West Coast as you possibly can in just 3 weeks.

It’s the ultimate guide for relocating to Alaska or the West Coast of the U.S. and perfect if you want to be one of the few people in the world who can say they drove one of the longest distances across North America (6,000+ miles to be exact!)

Following the itinerary, keep reading for tips on planning a 3-week road trip across America, safety information, where to stay, how to get around, when to visit each region, and more.

In week one of this itinerary, we’ll be visiting 6 different locations, but don’t stress! 3 of them are all within an hour of each other in Colorado.

You’ll have plenty of time to do some sightseeing and not stress yourself out with too much driving as you start acclimating to life on the road.

Niagara Falls, New York

No 3-week road trip across America would be complete without a quick visit to Niagara Falls! A 7-hour drive from the city of Boston will take you through New York’s capital of Albany and straight onto the Canadian border from Syracuse.

Niagara Falls is a staggering 2,200 feet wide and 188 feet high in certain places making it one of the most impressive waterfalls in North America.

During your visit, you can take a walk along the 3-mile Niagara Parkway and enjoy the rushing rapids before the falls drop, or view them up close with a boat ride on the Maid of the Mist .

Now, you’ve probably heard that there are two sides to Niagara Falls – the New York side and the Canadian side. And if you have heard of this, then it’s likely that you’ve also heard that the Canadian side is better.

While I really enjoyed my time visiting the New York side which came equipped with dozens of food trucks, a beautiful green park, and plenty of viewing areas, these rumors are true.

The Canadian side offers a far better perspective for viewing the width and depth of the falls, so if you’re looking for some prime photo opportunities, then it will be in your best interest to spend some time in line at the Canadian border.

Just be sure to remember your passport and consider practicing your French speaking skills before you go!

✅ If you want a really special experience then consider booking a helicopter ride over the Niagra Falls. It’s a once in a lifetime experience. This 4.5 star review helicopter ride is the best out there.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park, OH

From Niagara Falls, it’s time to head toward the Midwest, where you’ll be spending a day in the beautiful Cuyahoga Valley National Park!

Depending on which side of Niagara Falls you visited, you can either continue your journey south from the New York side through Buffalo and down towards Cleveland, Ohio which takes about 3.5 hours, or you can continue your drive through Canada and pass through Detroit.

I don’t typically recommend the latter of the two since it would take nearly 7 hours of driving, and the journey would include some eastward backtracking which isn’t what we want when trying to be efficient.

Cuyahoga Valley National Park is the perfect road trip stop for nature lovers, as it’s a beautiful oasis right in the middle of Central America.

This park is set along the Cuyahoga River and features pristine hiking trails (my favorites were the Kendall Lake Loop and Deer Run trails), over 100 miles of scenic biking paths, and plenty of outdoor activities.

If you’re looking to get up close with some wildlife, don’t forget to visit the Beaver Marsh and see if you can spot any beavers or migrant birds!

Pro Tip: After exploring Cuyahoga Valley National Park and kicking off your journey on the east coast, it’s important to remember that as you make your way westward, there aren’t going to be an insane amount of stops worth checking out for more than a few hours, unless you decide to drive south towards Tennessee and the surrounding states where there are several beautiful national forests.

Indiana Dunes National Park, IN

From Cuyahoga, head directly west about 4.5 hours to the beautiful Indiana Dunes National Park!

Known for its expansive beaches on the southern shore of Lake Michigan, Indiana Dunes will blow you away with its pristine landscape and stunning views.

This national park is one of America’s lesser-known gems and is home to 50 miles of hiking trails and 15 miles of sandy beachfront making it the perfect spot to spend a night on your long drive.

If you enjoy sleeping under the stars, be sure to check out Dunewood Campground which is located inside the national park and is nearby Lake Michigan and some great hiking trails including Cowles Bog Trail as well as Glenwood Dunes Trail.

They have clean and well-run facilities, as well as perfectly groomed camping pads so you shower and sleep in peace following your day’s hike.

Rocky Mountain National Park, CO

Keeping on the national park theme, we’re off to Colorado! Now, you’re probably thinking, “what about Illinois, Iowa, and Nebraska?”, and the truth is, there really isn’t much to do near your driving route in these states.

I would, however, recommend stopping at the world’s largest truck stop on I-80 in Iowa!

But, as far as scenic stops go, you’re better off grabbing a campsite or bnb in Lincoln , Nebraska (about halfway on this 15-hour stretch), and continuing on to Colorado where you’ll be spoiled for choice with things to do.

✅ Take a look at Graduate Lincoln for an awesome night of luxury.

Don’t worry, there will be endless corn and hay fields which are actually quite beautiful along the way, but don’t expect anything too crazy to happen at this point in the journey.

Once you enter the breathtaking state of Colorado, don’t be surprised if you have to drive for an extra hour or two before you start seeing the mountains. This surprised me on my first visit when I drove along I-76, so I wanted to give you a fair warning.

But, once you start seeing the city, you’ll be so close to the absolutely incredible Rocky Mountain National Park!

Known for its expansive peaks, miles of hiking trails, and clear alpine lakes, this is one national park you don’t want to miss on your 3-week road trip across North America.

Check out Bear Lake Trailhead which offers stunning views of the pristine lake and endless mountains in the background. Or if you’re feeling adventurous, approach Nymph Lake and Dream Lake for a full day of hiking that you won’t soon forget.

✅ Book a sunrise hot air balloon ride over the Rocky Mountains (but book in advance, they sell out quickly)

Rocky Mountain National Park is also covered in wildlife, so make sure to keep an eye out for deer, elk, moose, wolves, and even bears! Just don’t forget your bear spray if you plan on hiking through the park.

You could spend weeks in this park without seeing everything there is to see and do, but since we’re trying to be efficient, 2 nights or so will definitely do the trick.

Pro Tip: To limit the number of people in the park before 3:00 PM every day, you may need to reserve your timed entry spot online in the 2023 season. This can be done weeks in advance, but if you don’t then you may be forced to wait until later in the day or come back on a different day entirely. You can check the rules and regulations for entry into the park on the National Park Service website as well as reserve your spot when the timeslots become available.

When in Colorado, you do as the Coloradans do! Walk around downtown Golden and you’ll immediately get a feel for the laid-back, friendly culture of this state.

Shop local stores on the iconic 12th Street and enjoy some craft beers on one of the many patios around town (my favorite brewery is The Golden Mill because of its rooftop bar with self-serve brew stations).

Be sure to make some time for a brewery tour around the world-famous Coors Brewery , and if you’re hungry, there’s no better place in Golden than The Post.

End your night in Golden with ice cream from Ben & Jerry’s and consider staying at the Table Mountain Inn for its close proximity to downtown and beautiful balconies overlooking the Rocky Mountains.

You can also combine your trip to Golden with a stop in Denver if you would like, though we have found Denver to be much more of a city that lacks the true Colorado feel.

✅ Book a stay at Table Mountain Inn here

Boulder, CO

As you make your way north towards Wyoming, be sure to stop in Boulder! Shadowed by the Flatirons on its western border, the city is known for its breathtaking views and epic outdoor activities.

Check out Chautauqua Park for a picnic lunch on the tables outside, or head to the Pearl Street Mall to do some shopping.

✅ Why not explore Chautauqua Park and more on an eBike tour. It’s one of the best ways to experience this beautiful place in a short amount of time.

Boulder is the perfect place to stock up on some craft beers and local snacks before hitting the road again, especially since you’ll be just an hour away from the gorgeous Estes Park.

In week 2, we have another six different locations, with four of them being national parks! If you would prefer to have more time in each of these places, you can always extend your trip by a few days if you want.

This is what I decided to do and it allowed me to stay in both Banff and Jasper National park for 2 nights each instead of one which made all the difference in my journey.

You also have the option of sticking to the major cities if you prefer, in which case Jackson Hole, WY is a fantastic place to consider.

Grand Tetons National Park, WY

Wyoming is often recognized for one thing: Yellowstone National Park . And don’t worry! We’ll get there (literally – it’s the next stop down on this itinerary), but it’s important to enjoy as much of the road trip as possible because let’s be honest… the journey is more than half of the fun.

If you haven’t heard of Grand Teton National Park before, you’re in for a real treat. Boasting some of the highest peaks in North America, the park is a sight to behold.

At an 8-hour drive from Boulder, it’s a good idea to either leave early in the morning if you’re open to a full day in the car, or plan to book an accommodation of sorts near the Medicine Bow-Routt National Forest.

✅ Step back in time with a stay at the Elk Mountain Hotel

I stayed at Dugway Campground which is a free dispersed camping site with just an outhouse and first-come-first-serve campsites.

Be sure to hike around Jenny Lake which has plenty of spots for fishing and check out the National Elk Refuge near Jackson Hole.

Just keep in mind that a large influx of native Spanish speakers have moved into the area in recent years, so it’s not a bad idea to brush up on your Spanish if you will be staying in Jackson Hole for a couple of nights since many of the locals speak Spanish as their first language.

Yellowstone National Park, WY

Ah, Yellowstone. Home to some of the most incredible wildlife in North America, you’re sure to be able to spot everything from bison and elk to bears and wolves as you make your way through this iconic park.

There are plenty of different hikes throughout the park and tons of outdoor activities, but what makes Yellowstone unique is its geothermal features like geysers and hot springs.

✅ Book the best geyser and hot springs tour here

The park is also home to the world-famous Old Faithful so be sure to check that out too! If you are interested in some popular day hikes , check out Bunsen Peak or the Mystic Falls Trails Loop which begins in Biscuit Basin.

Pro Tip: This is definitely one of those places on this itinerary where you should stop at the visitor center first so they can give you an overview of where all the animals are likely to be. This is also true at Grand Tetons National Park, where they have rangers consistently driving the park’s main roads and borders to keep track of where herds of elk, bison, and other wildlife are moving.

Canmore, AB, Canada

About 11 hours north of Yellowstone sits the largest city in Alberta, Canada… Calgary! But, just like most cities, Calgary has a lot of fast food spots and major highways, so it’s not exactly the place I recommend spending the night.

If you have a little more driving left in you for the day, head west about 75 minutes to the city of Canmore.

Nestled under the Canadian Rockies, this ski town perfectly represents the iconic town of Chamonix, France known for its craggy, snow-capped mountain peaks and European-style architecture and lodging!

You’ll find wooden chalets , quaint cafes (my favorite is The Summit Cafe on Cougar Creek Dr.) and nearby sits the beautiful Grassi Lakes.

✅ Stay at the beautiful Stoneridge Mountain Resort

It’s the perfect place to stop in for the night for amazing alpine views and good food before you continue your drive north to the iconic Banff and Jasper national parks.

Pro Tip: 11 hours is a long drive. Split it up by stopping in the town of St. Mary which serves as a hopping-off point for the very popular Glacier National Park! I didn’t end up including this stop on my way to Canada because I would’ve had to rush through it, but it’s definitely worth a visit if you want to make the time to stop in.

Columbia Falls on the west side of the park is where you’ll be the closest to the major sites and hiking trails if you find yourself with the time to reach it, but it is a good bit more off the direct route through Canada.

Banff National Park, AB, Canada

I don’t know about you, but I’ve been looking at pictures of the iconic Lake Moraine for years! And trust me when I say it is everything that you could hope for and more.

Be sure to stay the night right in the park (I really enjoyed Lake Louis Campground because it had a bear fence surrounding the whole campground, meaning it was much safer for myself and my dog), since you’ll be within a 20-minute drive of all the major sites in the park.

I recommend taking a drive up to Lake Louise early in the morning to beat the 9:00 AM crowds and then heading back down through the Bow Valley Parkway which is full of sweeping mountain views and tons of wildlife!

Banff National Park is full of incredible hikes, but my favorites were the Lake Agnes Teahouse (shown above) and Bow Glacier Falls Trail for their incredibly scenic routes and moderately challenging difficulty levels.

Again, just be sure you have an air horn, a bear bell, and bear spray if you are planning on making your way through the Canadian wilderness.

Wildlife sightings are very common, so it’s best to be well prepared and to make plenty of noise during your hike so you don’t startle any animals that may be in your path.

✅ Book a tour of all the best sights listed here if you’re short on time

Jasper National Park, AB, Canada

About a 3-hour drive along I-93 north will bring you to the jaw-dropping Jasper National Park.

Often overlooked by tourists starstruck by Banff, listen to me when I tell you that many of the people we met said they liked Jasper even more than Banff!

Fantastic for wildlife viewing and endless beautiful hiking trails with a fraction of the tourists of Banff, you’ll be so glad you decided to include this lesser-known national park in Canada.

Spend a day exploring the trails surrounding the Valley of the Five Lakes, where you can go swimming in crystal clear, turquoise-colored lakes, or pop into the center of town and try the nachos at the Jasper Brewing Company.

✅ One of the most popular things to do here is the Glacier Skywalk and the Athabasca Glacier. Book now through Viator

It’s the perfect place to wrap up your evening before taking to the road the next morning.

Pro Tip: While you don’t have as many native French speakers as Quebec in this region of Canada, the city of Canmore and regions surrounding the national parks do have quite a bit of French speakers. So, it’s a great opportunity to practice your French if you’re looking for a way to connect with the locals!

Dawson Creek, BC, Canada

Welcome to British Columbia!

5 hours northwest of Jasper National Park is the small town of Dawson Creek. Seems simple enough… but, there’s actually something quite amazing about this small town and a huge reason why you should include it on your 3-week road trip across North America.

It marks the beginning of the Alaska State Highway!

World famous for its rugged mountainous terrain, the Alaska Highway is a 1,390-mile stretch of road that connects the cities of Dawson Creek and Fairbanks in Alaska.

It’s full of small towns along the way where you can stop for gas and/or food, but it’s also full of absolutely stunning views from start to finish!

Dawson Creek itself doesn’t quite live up to its name, but it’s a great stopping point en route to Alaska if you’re in need of supplies. Plus, you’re likely going to want to break up the drive to Muncho Lake.

Muncho Lake, BC, Canada

From Dawson Creek, you’ll have a 7.5-hour drive up to Muncho Lake where you’ll be able to explore one of the most beautiful regions in British Columbia.

Muncho Lake is a breathtaking alpine lake with amazing hiking trails (particularly Stone’s Sheep Trail) that wind through alpine meadows and by glacier-fed rivers.

This region is also known for its incredible wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled for animals like elk, moose, and even bears!

You’ll want to set up camp right on the shores of the lake for the best views of the sunset and sunrise, but keep in mind that you need to get there early as there are only about 10 spots, or so. It’s first-come first-serve, and an environmentalist will come around at some point in the evening to collect $20 from you for the spot.

In return, you’ll receive a small pass that gets clipped to your campsite board for the duration of your stay.

Pro Tip: Drive slowly around Muncho Lake and keep a careful eye out for wildlife. This is where I spotted a pack of 5 wolves, a massive herd of Bison, a bald eagle, and a fox all within a few miles of each other!

On the third week of this North American road trip, you might start to feel like you wished you allotted more time for the drive, or perhaps the opposite, you are ready to kick it into high gear and complete your drive to the Arctic Circle.

Whatever the case may be, this is why it’s best to keep your schedule as flexible as possible while you’re road-tripping.

If you’re camping, this is quite simple since you can just book as you go, but if you’re staying in hotels or Airbnb’s for example, then it will be in your best interest to only book accommodations with free cancelation.

I ended up increasing my 3-week trip to a 4-week trip, and I was so glad I did! Consider how much time you have for traveling and if you have any time constraints limiting your flexibility before you start the drive, so you know exactly how much wiggle room you have with your itinerary.

Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada

But, to kick off our third and final week of this itinerary, we’ll be making the 8-hour drive up to the Yukon! Whitehorse, specifically.

Similar to Dawson Creek in the sense that it really is just one big city, it’s a good stopping point to get you that much closer to Alaska and it’s a great spot to pick up any supplies you may need.

Pro Tip: If you have yet to get an oil change and check your tire pressure on your road trip across North America so far, then Whitehorse is a great place to do it! There are plenty of mechanics and chain shops such as Jiffy Lube around that can take care of those simple fixes for you.

Tok, Alaska

If you can make it this far, you should be really proud of yourself. Driving cross-country is no easy feat and is definitely something to be celebrated! When we crossed the border into Alaska, it was a fun and exciting moment that I truly hope you get to experience for yourself.

It’s about 5.5 hours to the Alcan Border from Whitehorse, but I don’t really recommend stopping there. The border doesn’t really have much going on, except that you’ll cross this awesome “Welcome to Alaska” sign.

There really isn’t anywhere to stay either, so continue 1.5 hours to the small town of Tok, where you’ll find a small, but well-supplied town with a gas station, a couple of shops and stores, and a great self-serve campground called the Alaska Stoves Camp.

It’s on an honor system, so you can simply drop the money in a camp stove out front of the main building.

Pro Tip: You will cross into a different time zone once you enter Alaska, so be sure to keep this in mind if you’re counting the hours left in your drive using your car’s clock. You’ll also have the opportunity to drive south from Tok if you want to tack on some time in the stunning Wrangell-St. Elias National Park !

Fairbanks, AK

Once you’ve had a chance to refuel, hop back on Route 2 through Delta Junction and onto Fairbanks. It’s just a mere 3.5-hour drive from here which will feel like a breeze at this point in your 3-week North American road trip.

Fairbanks is a great city to stop for a night or two (I actually ended up staying 3 nights because my husband, dog, and I simply needed a break from the car) to catch up on some much-needed rest, particularly if you’ve been camping your way through the majority of this trip like we did.

✅ We recommend a stay the The Adamina. You can book here.

I should also mention that this is your last stop for about 13 hours of driving minimum (one-way, so 26 hours round-trip), so it is vital that you stock up on plenty of food and dry goods. If you have a jet-boil, you’ll be happy to have it!

Coldfoot, AK

Just shy of 6 hours north of Fairbanks will bring you to the tiny, dare I even say the word town, called Coldfoot.

There is one gas pump outside of a wooden building that serves some buffet-style food to truckers and the rare tourist making their way up the Dalton Highway to Prudhoe Bay.

It was surprisingly tasty considering its remoteness, but you may want to consider other means, especially if you have anyone in your group with a food restriction or allergy.

In terms of accommodations, well… we slept in our car, as did most of the people in the parking lot.

There is the Coldfoot Camp, but be prepared to pay a hefty fee for mediocre lodging at best. If you’re wondering why I would include Coldfoot as a stop on this 3-week road trip across North America, it’s because it’s actually the only stop en route to the Arctic Circle from Fairbanks.

You won’t find any gas stations or supermarkets between Fairbanks and Coldfoot, or between Coldfoot and Prudhoe Bay, so you’ll want to be sure you have a full tank of gas and plenty of food and water before departing for Coldfoot.

It’s the unfortunate reality of driving to one of the most remote places in the entire world.

But, if you have it in you to drive this far, I promise you can make it the rest of the way.

Prudhoe Bay, Alaska

Wake up bright and early, toss your blanket in the trunk of your car, and continue north on the Dalton Highway for an additional 5.5 hours on the last day of your road trip.

Please bear in mind that the Dalton Highway is often rated as one of the most dangerous highways in the entire world owing to its lack of cell service, extremely poor road conditions, and lack of emergency services, and it is not to be taken lightly.

You’ll want to ensure you have plenty of provisions to keep you warm and fed for at least a few days’ time, and it isn’t a bad idea to have a satellite phone on hand.

A spare tire and all of the associated parts should be kept on hand, as well, as popped tires are all too common here.

Keep your eye out for wildlife along the drive and keep your camera handy at all times.

This is one of the few places in North America where you can see arctic foxes, Dall sheep, caribou, grizzly bears, moose, and a myriad of other species native to the Alaskan north that you just won’t find anywhere else.

We loved seeing the tundra swans and tundra loons, plus we got to see muskoxen which were much larger than we expected.

Once you’ve reached Prudhoe Bay, be sure to book an Arctic Ocean Shuttle as it’s the only way to reach the Arctic Ocean. Since the ocean lies on the other side of private oil fields, you’ll need to provide your personal information and have a background check performed before you will be allowed to cross the oil fields with a guide.

It costs about $75 per person, but is well worth the money when you can say you stepped foot (or even taken a dip) in the Arctic Ocean!

Going up to my knees was plenty for me as there were mini glaciers floating all around and the water temperatures ranged in the high 30s Fahrenheit (around 3-4 degrees Celsius).

Pro Tip: Be prepared for chilly weather and cloudy skies, even in the summer months. The Dalton Highway is nearly impassable for 18-wheelers once the snow hits, so be sure to plan your visit during the early summer months if you want to cross into the Arctic Circle with little to no issues.

Now that you have the itinerary, let’s see it all mapped out! Here is the route that we took to cross from the East Coast of the U.S. to the West Coast all the way through Canada and ending in northernmost Alaska.

I want to ensure that I mention that this route would have been far more efficient had we crossed into Canada in North Dakota, but we had family in Colorado that we wanted to see anyway, plus we got to see so many more U.S. national parks this way.

You can arrange the journey however you please, but this route worked very well for us on our way to Alaska.

There is no one perfect time to visit the U.S., as every part of the country offers very different experiences throughout the year.

However, if you’re looking to do a U.S. road trip, I would recommend either early summer ( May-June ) or early fall ( late August-September ) when the weather is milder and the roads are less likely to be blocked by snow and endless flocks of tourists.

If you want to go skiing or see the Northern Lights, head to the mountains in winter (December-February), and if you want to visit theme parks or enjoy some warm weather and beaches, then visit during the summer months (June-August).

Just be sure to research what you want to do and where you want to go before making any final plans, as there can be some pretty big temperature swings from one part of the country to another!

For this 3-week U.S. road trip in particular, I would recommend not leaving any later than late July since you’ll want enough time to reach the Arctic Circle without worrying about getting hit with snow while driving the Dalton Highway.

U.S. road trips start with, you guessed it… a vehicle! Whether that be a suburban-style car or a converted sprinter van, you’ll need something with at least two wheels, but practically speaking, four would be much more convenient.

Of course, you always have the option of flying between your destinations, but you’ll miss out on everything along the way, and there are some really incredible sights to see.

Plus, it’s typically far more expensive to fly (unless you are staying in hotels the entire trip) since flights cost far more than gas, particularly in the mid-western states.

🏆 We highly recommend Escape Campervans 🏆 These campervans have everything you need to travel the country safely, comfortably, cheaply, and uniquely (seriously, go check out the designs on these vans!) They have excellent customer support and are now the largest campervan rental in North America, with over 90,000 happy customers. Head to their website and you’ll see why.

However, the general rule of thumb for the best way to get around the U.S. stems from your goals.

If you’re planning to visit multiple national parks or do more extensive sightseeing along your 3-week U.S. itinerary, then driving between destinations is the best choice.

But, if you want to be as efficient as possible and know exactly where you want to go and don’t need the flexibility in your schedule, then you should definitely fly between places to save time.

When it comes to figuring out where to stay on a U.S. road trip, you really are spoiled for choice. These days, you have endless high-end campgrounds, Airbnb’s, VRBO rentals, hotels, and even tree houses you can stay in.

But, it really all depends on what your comfort level is and what your budget is. So, let’s jump into some details on these topics.

Over our 4-week U.S. road trip, we decided to camp for 3.5 out of the 4 weeks. Why? We love camping and we also had a dog with us which made finding hotels and accommodations just a bit harder.

We also travel full-time, so this wasn’t as much of a vacation for us as it was just another trip where we were working on the road. So, we needed the experience to be both budget-friendly and pet-friendly.

It doesn’t really matter what your situation is, if you find yourself with similar limitations, then camping is a great option.

All across America, you can find endless options for campgrounds. From the more manicured camping option at the KOA Campgrounds to free dispersed camping in the national forests of Wyoming with nothing but an outhouse, you’re never without a spot to sleep.

This is a great way to keep your costs low and keep your schedule and U.S. road trip itinerary flexible in the event that you decide you want to spend an extra night somewhere or even leave a day or two early from a specific place.

In my opinion, campgrounds are the best place to stay when going on a cross-country road trip since you can set up your “home for the night” pretty much anywhere.

There are some downsides, of course, including the fact that you’ll be susceptible to the weather and safety can be a concern for some, particularly in regions with a lot of wildlife.

You’ll also notice that finding campgrounds with Wifi and free showers can be challenging, so you’ll need to be prepared for these practical limitations if you find them to be crucial to your daily routine.

Hotels and Accommodation Rentals

If money isn’t of much concern, then hotels and accommodation rental companies can be a very comfortable and luxurious way to make your journey cross country, as well.

There are hotels, bed and breakfasts, Airbnb’s, VRBO properties, and everything in between all over the U.S. so you’ll never be without a comfortable bed and clean shower.

Plus, these days most hotels offer free continental breakfasts at a minimum, so you’ll be well taken care of during your trip.

The only downside of living almost exclusively in hotels is the lack of a kitchen, which means you’ll likely find yourself eating at restaurants a lot more often which can really rack up your bills.

If you don’t want to sacrifice comfort and cleanliness but don’t want to break the bank either, then I highly recommend considering Airbnb or apartments on Booking.com.

It’s a great way to find reasonably priced accommodations that have everything you’re looking for. Also, if you’re traveling with a pet, I have found self-hosted to be a fantastic option, and in fact, it’s what we use every time we travel with our dog.

Renting a campervan is another fantastic option for heading out on a U.S. road trip. For starters, it can save you tons of money on lodging, as you can simply drive to your next destination and sleep right there in your vehicle.

You’ll just need to make sure to check if overnight parking is allowed at each place you stay.

Plus, you can often cook light meals right inside which saves you a ton of money on eating out! But, the real perk that is no matter what the weather looks like, you’ll be nice and dry come morning and bears are going to have a very hard time opening your van door.

The downside to van life is the initial outfitting of the van itself… it can be very expensive. Even renting a pre-outfitted van can cost upwards of hundreds of dollars per week, so you’ll want to get a quote for your rental period if this is something you’re considering.

If you decide to outfit your own van you can save a lot of money, but the van itself usually starts around $30k for a decent model.

Similar to camping, however, a van allows you to keep your schedule totally flexible since you can sleep practically anywhere that doesn’t have “no overnight parking” posted nearby making it a top contender when considering where to stay on a 3-week North American road trip.

✅ Book with Escape Campervans for the best price and experience

Last, but definitely not least, is RV life.

The stereotypical perspective of this option is that it’s primarily for the older generation, but that simply isn’t true. If you’re traveling with a larger group or simply want to do your U.S. road trip on the slower side, an RV is a great option.

It offers everything that a typical hotel can offer you, with the perks of a kitchen and being close to nature. It’s practically camping, van life, and hotels all wrapped up into one!

There are a few downsides to this option, however, including that RVs, like outfitted vans, can be outrageously expensive.

If you want to buy one, it’s almost like buying a small house without a yard. If you want to rent one, well… you might as well buy one!

But, as I said, if you have a big group that can split the cost, this is a great way to go cross-country road-tripping in the U.S. You may have some trouble finding a spot for everyone to sleep, but it will be well worth your efforts if you are hoping to live comfortably and casually.

This will almost entirely depend on what you’re hoping to eat on your trip and where you plan to stay.

If you’re camping, you’ll be more limited to whatever you can keep cold in your cooler and how many pots and pans you want to bring back and forth to the one dish sink at the campground. I will say that buying ice gets old very quickly, especially if you’re traveling in the summer months, so this is something to keep in mind if you almost always cook all of your meals from scratch.

If you’re living it up in a van or RV, it depends on how many dishes you want to do and how big your fresh gallon tank is. If you’re constantly having to find places to fill your water tank up, you may get used to a sandwich for lunch instead of something that creates a lot of dishes.

You’ll notice at the beginning of your trip that you’re far more excited and motivated to cook fun meals over a campfire and pull out pans for whatever you need. But, once you start week two and especially week three of this U.S. road trip, there’s a good chance you’ll start finding easier meals that you enjoy that don’t require a lot of clean up.

For us, we found sandwiches, soup, fruit, and beans to make up the bulk of our diet over the course of those 4 weeks. I primarily picked up pre-made food at the local supermarkets and we would eat that while we drove.

It doesn’t sound great, and I agree it wasn’t, but it got the job done and it saved us a ton of money.

At first, I was so excited to create these elaborate meals and after just one week, we decided that all of the extra work after a full day in the car simply wasn’t worth it.

You may find you agree or disagree, but I will say that over time you’ll want something that you can make for yourself.

If you try to stick to mainly fast food and restaurants, you’re going to eventually get tired of the pre-made food and especially the bill.

It’s a good idea to keep a healthy mix between making your own food and eating out so you don’t get too tired of one before the journey is over.

21 days may seem like a long time to pack for, but luckily pretty much everywhere you go will have plenty of opportunities for laundry services.

I found it extremely helpful when we were camping to book an Airbnb with a washer and dryer twice during our trip, so we only had to pack for about 10 days worth of clothing.

This kept our load light and prevented us from spending a lot of money on multiple washing sessions.

Pro Tip: If you’re trying to travel light with nothing but a backpack and a couple of pairs of shoes, then be sure to check out this minimalist packing list before your trip!

If this sounds like a good fit for you or something you would like to try, then try out the 10-day packing list below that works wonders for any 21-day USA road trip.

It includes everything you’ll need no matter the weather, so if you’re traveling in the harsher seasons of winter or spring you may need to add or take away some clothing.

I have also included the basic necessities you’ll need for camping, so feel free to omit those if you plan on outfitting a van, staying in an RV, or getting other accommodation rentals.

• Tent ( 2-4 person tents usually work well )
• 2 Tarps and Rope (one to tie above your tent and one to put below your tent when it rains)
• Sleeping Bags ( ensure they’re rated for cold weather )
• Headtorch (handy for just about everything!)
• Air pads (great if you’ll be camping for long periods of time)
• Camping Chairs (nothing too fancy, you don’t want them to take up a lot of room)
• Cooler (preferably one that holds ice for at least 24 hours)
• Portable Grill ( I use the one-burner Coleman propane stove )
• Pots/Pans/Plates/Cups/Utensils (use metal! It can go over an open flame and saves a lot of wasted single-use plastic. Most campgrounds across the U.S. have very limited recycling capabilities)
• Instant Coffee (perfect for when you’re trying to pack up and go)
• Sunscreen (SPF 30+) & Hat for sun protection
• Waterproof Boots
• Basic Hygiene Items (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, face wash, moisturizer, hairbrush, toothbrush & paste, floss, razor, tweezers, deodorant, etc.)
• Rain Jacket ( This Helly Hanson jacket is perfect )
• Hooded Sweatshirt or Fleece
• 1 Winter Jacket (if applicable)
• 1-2 Sweaters
• 2-3 Long Sleeves
• 2-3 T-Shirts
• 1-2 Pairs of Shorts
• 1-2 Pairs of Leggings
• 1 Pair of Jeans
• 1 Sleep Outfit
• 10 Pairs of Underwear
• 5-7 Pairs of Socks

When it comes to planning a 3-week road trip across the U.S., there are some things you’ll need to know ahead of time that may not be as obvious as you would hope.

Over the next two sections, I’m going to provide you with tips on how to plan your road trip itinerary as well as some safety tips that I learned along my route.

Don’t book anything until you’re 100% satisfied with your route and plans. It can be tempting to jump right in and secure your dates for Lake Louis Campground in Banff, but just ensure that your itinerary is exactly how you want it and everything that you’ve planned has availability before doing so.

Don’t take the itinerary I provided and assume it’s perfect for you. You may want to travel further south or north, increase or decrease your time in different areas, or skip somewhere altogether.

We used this route to relocate to Alaska for a few months, but we’ll be taking an entirely different route back to New England on the return trip to see the southern half of the country.

Do your research. I can’t emphasize this one enough!

Had we not researched the flooding that occurred in Yellowstone National Park in early 2022, we never would have known that the northern side of the park road was still closed to traffic which would add an extra 2 hours to our drive when we were heading north to Montana.

Always research current road conditions and keep up to date with events that could potentially interrupt your route or schedule.

Think about your interests first and your itinerary second. What do you want to do? What do you actually want to see? If you have no interest in being in the mountains and prefer big cities, then you can probably skip several of the national parks on this list.

Once you know what you want to do during your road trip, you can start thinking about your itinerary.

Have a general schedule in mind. Are you using this 21-day U.S. road trip to relocate to the West Coast, or are you hoping to return to the East Coast in as little as 3 weeks? This will majorly dictate how far you can go and how much time you spend in each place.

Don’t try to fit too much in. The U.S. is massive! Zigzagging your way north to south to hit the entire lower 48 before you go to Alaska will take months, not weeks.

Keep this in mind and don’t try to squeeze an extra city or two in if it’s going to take away from the rest of the places you really want to see.

Think about your budget ahead of time. This isn’t something you should start considering on week two after you’ve already spent far more than you were hoping for.

Make a spreadsheet and start considering your overall budget for food, gas, lodging, souvenirs, oil changes and car maintenance, and other incidentals that could occur (you lose your phone, perhaps) well before you depart.

Have your roles. If you’re traveling with a partner or friend, decide who will set up the tent while the other gets dinner going. This will make your life go far smoother after a 12-hour day in the car.

Get excited about the little things. There are parts of the U.S. that are just plain boring. And that’s okay! Embrace it.

Instead of getting caught up in the idea that every minute of this road trip has to be beautiful and exciting, enjoy the fact that you have no idea what may happen tomorrow and every new day is an adventure at this point in your life.

Don’t argue and have fun! This one seems obvious, but you’re going to take the wrong on-ramp at some point and have to backtrack a little.

This is a very normal part of road-tripping across the U.S. and there’s no point in wasting your time arguing about who was supposed to be looking at the map.

Next up, the safety tips! You may know how to change a tire (and you should before departing for this road trip), but there are some less obvious tips I have for you too.

Be prepared for inclement weather.

I left for my road trip at the end of July and it took me through August to reach Prudhoe Bay. When I was camping in Yellowstone National Park in mid-August, it dropped to about 45 degrees Fahrenheit at night.

The further north I went, the faster it dropped to as low as 30 degrees at night. It doesn’t matter when you’re traveling, nighttime temperatures are a whole new ball game that you need to be prepared for if you’re sleeping outside.

Don’t speed.

This is for your safety and others. It can be exciting, overwhelming, and scary all at the same time to go on a U.S. road trip, but it’s not worth getting in an accident. Take your time and enjoy the scenery.

Have a GPS that works without an internet connection.

No, your phone is not good enough. I can’t tell you how many times we didn’t have service on any of our phones (we have T-Mobile, Verizon, and AT&T), but our GPS still got us where we were going. It’s also a good idea to have an updated paper map or atlas in your car, as well.

Keep your car well stocked with supplies at all times.

You never know what may happen. You could blow a tire in the middle of the Dalton Highway with no services for 300 miles or you could break down in the middle of the Montana desert with no cell service.

Always ensure you have warm blankets, food, and water for at least 3 days in your car.

Ensure you have tires with good treads.

We figured out about 3 weeks into our drive when the rainy season began in Canada that our treads were no good and we were sliding all over the road.

We had to stop and get new tires as soon as we entered Alaska which not only cost more money than it should have, but it also took several hours of our time.

Do yourself a favor and ensure that everything on your vehicle is operating the way it should before you depart!

Below are some of your most-asked questions that I’ve provided some unique answers to based on my personal experiences and what I believe may be a good fit for other people.

3 Week Road Trip across America Cost

Now for the question that you’ve likely wanted to know the answer to this entire time… “how much did this U.S. road trip cost you?” Well, here’s the breakdown for our 4-week itinerary:

Campgrounds and Airbnb’s – $1,580 Food & Alcohol – $150-$200 per week ($700 total) Gas – $55 per tank (about $1100 total)

We also had a dog with us which increased our costs slightly in terms of the Airbnbs that we had to rent, her food, etc. In terms of gas, this is when gas prices were at an all-time high practically, so we were spending far more on gas than we normally would with our Subaru Forester.

We anticipated the trip to cost around $800 for gas and tolls, and it likely added up to around $1200-$1300 with tolls in the long run due to the $5+ per gallon gas prices.

The learning curve with this is always to anticipate your road trip to cost more and be pleasantly surprised if it costs less but comfortable if it costs what you expected.

How Long Does it Take to Road Trip around America?

This entirely depends on where you’re starting and ending your road trip, but typically 6-8 weeks is a good amount of time to see the major sights across the whole country while still having some time to enjoy yourself.

This is, of course, if you’re hoping to get across most of the states in the country.

If you want to spend more time in certain places, it may take several months or even longer is recommended depending on how much ground you would like to cover and how much you want to drive each day.

Along our U.S. road trip, we met someone who was visiting Alaska as their 49th state, and they had left in March! That means they had been road-tripping for over 4 months to see almost all of the U.S.

Keep this in mind if you’re hoping to check out numerous states and want to spend a good amount of time in each.

If you just want to drive between the major sites in each state and don’t mind skipping popular hiking trails and sights along the way, then 3-4 weeks will suffice.

Where Should I Go in the U.S. for 3 Weeks?

If you only have 3 weeks for a North American road trip, then it’s best to keep your route somewhat limited. Particularly, if you plan on returning to where you started in 3 weeks’ time.

If you are leaving from the East Coast and are planning on being home within 3 weeks, then I wouldn’t go further west than Colorado.

But, if you have 3 weeks to go in one direction, then you could definitely reach California or even Alaska in that time.

Where you go will entirely depend on your preferences, but you can use the itinerary I provided to get some ideas on where may work best for you!

Pro Tip: It’s going to be warmer the further south you go and cooler the fourth north you go, regardless of when you leave.

The Wrap-Up: 3-Week North American Road Trips

Overall, U.S. road trips are one of the best ways to break out of your comfort zone and start traveling again.

Whether you’re planning this trip for just yourself, you and a partner, you and a friend, or even your entire extended family, this 3-week road trip across North America certainly has some new adventures in store for you.

Author Bio Contributed by Emily of Emily Embarks .

If you enjoyed this guide then check out more of our U.S. content.

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Destinations | NORTH America

West coast road trip itinerary – 3 weeks.

13 Jul 2021 | California , Destinations , North America

Planning a West Coast road trip itinerary can be overwhelming. You’re spoilt for choice when visiting this part of the United States – natural beauty, poetic endless roads, and stunning romantic sunsets are sure to make your heart beat faster (or even skip a beat once in a while!). 

A trip along the West Coast of the United States will constantly impress you – more often than not at moments, you don’t expect. This guide will help so you can simply look forward to exploring all of these breathtaking locations without the stress of planning a route. 

Our suggested West Coast USA itinerary begins in San Francisco , travels through several National Parks in the most beautiful state in the USA , winds through Las Vegas, and ends in Los Angeles. We have also included some additional information to extend your trip!

** Disclaimer: This post contains affiliated links which means that purchases made through these links reward Bey of Travel a small commission without any additional charge for the purchaser.** 

West Coast Road Trip Itinerary: Planning your trip

The US West Coast comprises California, Oregon, and Washington. In this post, we will dive deeper into the California destinations along the Pacific Coast, and also explore Nevada along the way. 

• If flying from overseas, you can fly to cities like San Francisco, Los Angeles, or Las Vegas and then pick up a car rental to start your road trip
• Don’t forget your passport and tourist visa (if it applies to you)

This West Coast road trip is beautiful throughout the year. However, try to figure out in advance which parks you definitely want to visit. The weather can sometimes cause trouble, and not all parks are (completely) open all four seasons. 

From May to September good weather is more or less guaranteed – but winter, when the national parks are hidden under a beautiful blanket of snow, also has its advantages.

Packing Tips for West Coast or the Pacific Coast Highway Trip

Here are some packing tips for your west coast USA road trip

• Don’t forget your universal adapter!
• Ensure there’s a high enough limit on your credit card(s). More often than not, hotels will ask for a deposit.
• You need a universal driver’s license in America. Also, gas up wherever you can. Sometimes you won’t come across a gas station for hours!
• There are water fountains in the National Parks, so be sure to bring your reusable water bottle.
• Invest in an Annual National Park Pass . Valid for 12 months from the month of purchase, this pass covers admission to all 59 U.S. National Parks. At just $80 USD for the whole year, the pass practically pays for itself.

It is important to note that renting a car is unavoidable. Try to select the comfiest and trustworthy car your budget allows. 

You’ll often find yourself on the road for hours on end without coming across another living soul, let alone a train or bus station.

read next | 7 things you need to know before planning a west usa road trip

How much time to spend on the pacific coast highway road trip.

We did our West Coast USA tour in three weeks. We crossed three state lines, drove just under 3200 kilometers, and walked on average 18,000 steps per day. Honestly, our schedule was firm but remained doable. 

We could easily have stayed a few weeks longer, though! Being blown off your socks every single day certainly helps to keep the trip enjoyable.

Ultimate 3 weeks in West Coast Road Trip itinerary

In order to kick start your Pacific Coast Highway road trip, fly or travel to San Francisco in Northern California. You can pick up a car rental from the airport and then buy road trip essentials. 

• Day 1-3 : San Francisco
• Day 4-5 : Yosemite National Park
• Day 6 : Sequoia National Park 
• Day 7-8: Death Valley National Park
• Day 9-12 : Las Vegas
• Day 13-14 : Zion National Park
• Day 15-17 : Palm Springs
• Day 18 : Day trip to Joshua Tree National Park
• Day 19-20 : Los Angeles
• Day 21 : Flyout

Stop 1: Arrive in San Francisco, and explore the diverse city (Day 1-3)

San Francisco should be the first stop on your West Coast road trip. The land of the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, fantastic food, and diverse population, this marvelous city earns a blogpost for itself – read everything about the City by the Bay here . 

We stayed at Palihotel San Francisco .

There’s something for everyone with intriguing islands, plenty of hiking trails, fascinating museums, and famous landmarks in San Francisco.

It’s impossible to explore all that San Francisco has to offer in one trip – so plan a stay of 3 nights, and I guarantee you won’t get bored for a second.

Things to do in San Francisco

• Check off the iconic Golden Gate Bridge park : Visit the landmark bridge in San Francisco on your 3-day trip. Although it is completely free to view the bridge, you can opt for a sightseeing tour or bike across the bridge for a unique experience. Note that this is also an amazing photo location.
• Crissy Field, Palace of Fine Arts and Japanese Gardens: Spend an afternoon exploring Crissy Field and sit down with a picnic spread.   Explore the Palace of Arts which was originally built for the 1915 Panama-Pacific Exposition – it is a stunning piece of art. In the late afternoon, explore the Japanese Gardens!
• Fisherman’s Wharf, Alcatraz: Spend a day at the Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can check out Pier 39, eat and admire the lovely marina. This area is super touristy, so expect food and souvenirs to be expensive. From the Pier, take a cruise to Alcatraz Island to explore one of the toughest military prisons. It is no longer functioning, but there are guided day tours where you can learn about the prison’s history and prisoner stories.
• Visit SFMOMA: San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is a great stop for art lovers. The complex is home to a vast collection of modern and contemporary artworks from most renowned artists all over the world.  Here is an entry ticket .
• Half Moon Bay and/or Sausalito: You can take a day trip to Half Moon Bay or spend half a day in Sausalito, followed by a sunset cruise in the evening (from the Angel Island State Park).

Mist trail : This hike is the signature trail of Yosemite, and it’s the perfect walk to do with children. Not only will you spot beautiful waterfalls, you’re also treated to an astonishing view over the Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap, and The Half Dome.

Depending on how far you’re willing to go, the average hike takes between 2 and 5 hours, with a distance of between 4.8 and 11 kilometers.

If you want to make it a round trip, you need to add on 2.4 kilometers

Yosemite Falls Trail: This is one of Yosemite’s oldest historic trails, built-in 1873 to 1877. The Yosemite Falls Trail winds its way up to the top of the highest waterfall in North America. 

With a distance of 11.6 kilometers, the hike will take around 7 hours. When there’s been a heatwave, almost no water nor waterfall will be seen – so always double-check at the information point so you aren’t disappointed when hiking this trail.

North Dome Hike : If you’re in a bit of a rush and you haven’t got the time or courage to attempt the Half Dome hike, the North Dome hike is the perfect alternative! 

The starting point of the route is an hour’s drive from the park entrance. The hike is 14.2 kilometers and takes about 4 hours. 

During this trail you get a mind-blowing close-up view of the Half Dome – make sure you walk to the very edge of the rocks at the end of the path. 

Try to start the trail early in the morning. You’ll end up walking under the naked sun for quite some while, so take enough water and sunscreen with you. 

The track itself is not that challenging, with the exception of some sturdy and steep parts in the middle.

Best Viewpoints in Yosemite National Park

Glacier Point is the most popular viewpoint in Yosemite National Park. From here, you can see incredible views of Yosemite Valley, Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, and other impressive Yosemite landmarks. 

Though you can actually hike up to Glacier Point, it’s easily accessible by car as long as the Glacier Point Road is open. 

The road is open from late May to sometime in October or November, depending on the weather conditions.

Tunnel View is another popular viewpoint known for its spectacular views of El Capitan, Half Dome, and Bridalveil Fall. The scene is truly amazing; the views of Yosemite look like a dream.

You’ll find this viewpoint at the east end of the Wawona Tunnel – make sure you bring your camera!

Yosemite is full of spectacular waterfalls – and Yosemite Falls and Bridalveil Fall are two of the best.

There are many different places throughout the park where you can view Yosemite Falls, but if you’re looking for an up-close look you can follow a one-mile loop that will take you to the Lower Fall. 

The Upper Falls is accessible but only via a strenuous hike.

El Capitan is one of the most iconic landmarks in Yosemite National Park. As rock climbing is a popular activity in Yosemite, El Capitan Meadow is a great place for watching climbers.

When driving out of Yosemite National Park, tears rolled down my cheeks. I was overwhelmed by the great hikes in this beautiful park. 

Nature always triggers something in me, but I have to admit that this park left an unprecedented impression.

Stop 5: Travel to Las Vegas and explore (Day 9-12)

While approaching the Nevada border during our USA West Coast road trip itinerary, our excitement level rose. Especially when out of the barren desert, we see Las Vegas appear in the distance out of nowhere.

All the skyscraper hotels, limousines, advertising signs, naked women, the world-famous strip… we’ve never been bombarded with so much instant chaos upon arriving somewhere new.

We stayed for four nights at the Virgin hotels Las Vegas . 

We also stayed in Sin City a little longer because we’d set aside a day for our Las Vegas wedding.  Read everything about our wedding here ! 

With two nights in Las Vegas, you’ll have more than enough time. We weren’t the biggest fan of this artificial Gambling Capital of the World, but you simply have to check it out for yourselves.

Things to do in Las Vegas

There are so many interesting things to do in Las Vegas. It’s the largest city in Nevada and unsurprisingly receives millions of visitors every year. 

With a wide variety of leisure options – like music, theater, circus, magic, gambling, betting, weddings, family fun, excursions, and much more – it’s one of the largest entertainment centers in the world. 

As for the nightlife, you can enjoy it with the discreet complicity of those who are willing to offer you anything you want. I’m sure you know the saying – ‘what happens in Las Vegas, stays in Las Vegas.

Gambling: Have a gamble, no matter how cliché it may sound. You can’t escape the gambling madness here. 

Every hotel is full of slot machines and poker tables that just scream for your attention… and your money!

Las Vegas Strip : The Las Vegas Strip is without a doubt one of the main places to visit in Vegas. 

On this boulevard, you’ll find the best-known hotels and casinos in the city, in addition to the famous Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas sign (one of the most photographed places in the city). 

As it is bloody hot in the city, it’s better to avoid the main strip during the day. It’s also much more impressive at night with all the lights on… Try to visit the old strip as well, as gambling here is much cheaper among the locals.

Visit Red Canyon State Park: If you don’t know what to visit near Vegas, the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area is a beautiful place where you can appreciate the splendor of the desert. 

This beautiful natural space is made up of impressive peaks and reddish walls, and it’s much appreciated by hikers and climbers. 

Red Rock Canyon State Park is a nice day trip idea from Las Vegas. Set aside 4-5 hours for this trip so that you can explore the state, and also head out for some day hikes. 

This is also the location where we shot our wedding pictures!

Fly over the Grand Canyon: The best way to see the Grand Canyon is by flying over and through it by helicopter or airplane . That way, you can get the best views of the Canyon and the Colorado River from up above – an experience that you absolutely cannot miss out on during your West Coast road trip. The beauty and majesty of the place will leave you speechless. 

READ NEXT | HOW TO GET MARRIED IN LAS VEGAS

Stop 6: hike your way through zion national park (day 13-14).

Zion National Park is a 2.5-hour drive from Las Vegas, and we stayed at La Quinta by Wyndham La Verkin – Gateway to Zion . Zion is a haven of trails with incredible, jaw-dropping views. This park simply must be on your West Coast road trip itinerary – get ready to be blown away. 

Try to stay here at least for two nights. Since Zion gets extremely crowded in the spring and summer, and the most popular trails are very busy in the middle of the day, we recommend hitting the trail as early as you can.

Most hiking points in the park can only be reached by the shuttle bus. There are several parking places in the park at the shuttle stop – but come early if you want to ensure your spot. During summer the shuttle runs from 6 am to 10 pm, and from 7 am to 8 pm in the winter.

READ NEXT |  BEST HIKES IN THE EVERGLADES

Check out the best stops for your day trip to Joshua Tree below – and remember to pack plenty of food and water, as there won’t be anywhere to stock up on supplies once you’re in the park.

• Barker Dam Trail: An easy 1.8-kilometer walking loop with the most interesting rock formations.
• Keys View: The second stop on your one-day trip to Joshua Tree National Park is Keys View. At this overlook, you’ll be able to admire the Coachella Valley and spot the San Andreas Fault. The elevation is over 1500 meters, so this is one of the first places to get snow each season.
• Cholla Cactus Garden: The best place to watch the sunset during your day trip in Joshua Tree National Park is the Cholla Cactus Garden.  The cholla cactus fills this 10-acre garden near the park’s north entrance. There’s a parking lot located at the trailhead, so make a quick stop and walk along the trail through the garden.  Remember that you’re in the desert, so these hikes are not recommended during the summer months. Temperatures drop significantly when the sun goes down in the desert. Be prepared.

More West Coast Road Trips 

You can tweak this West Coast road trip route and instead add the following places:

San Juan Islands: The San Juan Islands are an archipelago in the state of Washington. These islands are known for orca sightseeing, and it is home to the Lime Kiln Point State Park which is an orca-whale lookout. If traveling from Las Vegas you will have to fly there to make good use of time. 

Oregon Coast Highway: Another epic West Coast Road trip idea is from travel from California to the Washington state and Oregon aka Oregon Coast Highway (US Route 101). It runs through the state along the coastline near the Pacific Ocean. You can stop at amazing areas such as coastal towns in California, Cannon Beach and explore parks such as Olympic National Park and Crater Lake National Park. 

San Diego: Speaking of the coast, San Diego is a great place to stop. Located in southern California San Diego has nice warm weather, great beaches, and parks, which is a nice destination for art, shopping, and nature lovers. 

There is a deep harbor with a large naval fleet, with a museum. You can visit San Diego from Los Angeles. San Diego to Los Angeles about 2-3 hours away along with a few stops (and moderate traffic). 

Bryce Canyon National Park : Bryce Canyon National Park is a stunning park in Utah with crimson-colored hoodoos and rock formations. 

There are amazing hiking trails and overlook points located inside the park such as Sunrise Point and Bryce Point. You can visit Bryce Canyon from Las Vegas. 

Bryce Canyon National Park is about 265 miles from Vegas and it will take you about four hours. You can cut a day from Palm Springs and instead visit this park from Vegas.

During our road trip, unfortunately, we did not have time to visit Bryce Canyon, my friends from ‘Along came an elephant’ wrote a nice blog about it. You can read it here .

We hope you enjoyed this post on the West Coast Road Trip guide useful in planning yours! Have more questions, let us know in the comments below.

Pin: 3 weeks in West Coast America Road trip

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Even though I am from the US, I’ve never been farther west than Colorado. I would love to see more of the south west part especially. Thanks for all the of the useful tips!

Tank you so much Maria! I hope you will have the opportunity to travel to the West Coast one day, you will love it!

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Home > Road Trip Itineraries > West Coast > Southwest > 3-Week West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary: Cities and Parks

3-Week West Coast USA Road Trip Itinerary: Cities and Parks

This site may contain affiliate links. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.

Why Choose This Itinerary?

If you have 3 weeks and want to explore all the most famous destinations on the West Coast , then this itinerary is for you . In fact, we have selected all the classic attractions of California , Arizona , and Utah , including both the must-see parks (the Grand Canyon , Monument Valley, Bryce Canyon , etc…) and the main cities ( San Francisco , Las Vegas , Los Angeles , and San Diego ). This is a winning combination that will result in an unforgettable road trip!

Travel Info

• Best period : Spring and Summer
• Duration : 20 days
• Distance to cover : About 1,990 miles
• Total driving hours : Approximately 32 hours
• Average daily driving time : About 90 minutes
• Start : San Francisco
• End : Los Angeles

How do you book this tour?

This is a “do-it-yourself” road trip, and you can plan it step-by-step by following all the directions and resources entered for each stop.

* Please Note: Some parts of this route are not accessible at certain times of the year due to weather conditions in certain seasons ( Tioga Road is usually closed from November to April making it impossible to cross Yosemite in the winter ). In such cases, we recommend modifying the route by including Morro Bay (via Big Sur ) and Sequoia National Park (and from there return to Death Valley following the original route).

If you’re looking for a shorter “do-it-yourself trip”, you can check out our 2 Week National Park Road Trip , which is suitable for all seasons and passes through cities in California , national parks, Indian reservations, Route 66 and a ghost town.

• Road Trip Map
• Travel stops
• Travel calendar and resources

3 Weeks West Coast USA Road Trip: Map

Here is a list of the individual stops and tips and resources to make the most of them.

How to use this list?

Each place represents a stop on the trip. To better understand the order of the stops, see the list below. For every single destination, there are various links that refer to tips for organizing the visit, resources for booking various activities or hotels, and other recommendations. The overview of days and distances of the entire itinerary can be found under “Travel Calendar”. Have a great trip!

Travel Stops

San Francisco

Stop in the most fascinating city in California . You will have a few days to visit it and you will soon realize that San Francisco is a city full of surprises and activities.

• Things to do
• Where to stay
• Where to eat
• San Francisco passes: Which one to choose?
• San Francisco Guided Tours

Resources :

• Cheap hotels in San Francisco
• All the activities to do in the city
• All the articles on our website about San Francisco

Yosemite National Park

The beautiful Yosemite National Park is characterized by imposing monoliths, vertical cliffs, and roaring waterfalls. We will explore it by entering from the west (Arch Rock Entrance) and exiting from the opposite end (Tioga Pass). It’s really worth exploring this natural wonder by driving through the park or perhaps by going on some hikes!

• Points of interest in Yosemite National Park
• Where to stay in Yosemite National Park
• Tours, excursions, and activities at Yosemite Park
• The page on our website dedicated to Yosemite

Death Valley National Park

Visiting Death Valley’s arid and desert landscape that seems like another planet is a unique experience. There you will see ancient lakes that have evaporated in which there are reflections of iridescent rainbows, as well as undulating mountains with unusual shapes, stunning rock formations, and so much more.

• Points of interest in Death Valley National Park
• Where to stay in Death Valley

Sin City, the city of gambling and unbridled excess. You should stop here at least for one day!

• Attractions in Las Vegas
• Where to stay in Las Vegas
• Recommended hotels in town
• Luxury hotels
• Las Vegas City Passes

Excursions and tours:

• Tours of parks departing from Las Vegas
• Helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon
• All articles about Las Vegas
• All the activities to do in Las Vegas

Bryce Canyon National Park

An impressive natural amphitheater, with unique rocky pinnacles known as hoodoos, that offers breathtaking views.

• Points of interest at Bryce Canyon
• Where to stay at Bryce Canyon
• Tours from Las Vegas

Antelope Canyon

The most famous slot canyon in the world. You can enter the winding canyon and see wonderful light effects. It is the ideal place to take unforgettable photos!

• Antelope Canyon Guide
• Where to stay in Page

Monument Valley

The three large red sand monoliths that stand out on the horizon have now become one of the most representative symbols of the American Far West. This wonderful valley is one of the must-see destinations for a Southwest road trip!

• How to visit Monument Valley
• Where to stay in Monument Valley

Grand Canyon

This is the largest and most famous canyon in the world. A vacation in the Southwest is not complete without visiting the Grand Canyon. Here are our tips to make the most of your visit!

• How to visit the Grand Canyon in 1 day
• Where to find accommodations in the area
• Excursions and activities at the Grand Canyon
• The page on our website dedicated to the Grand Canyon

A strategic stop between the Grand Canyon and California, located right on the legendary Route 66 , America’s most famous road.

• Where to stay and what to do in Kingman

Palm Springs

Palm Springs is an oasis in an unlikely place in the desert. It is dotted with palm trees and full of charm and it is the ideal base to visit the nearby Joshua Tree National Park (a 40-minute drive away).

• Tips for visiting Joshua Tree National Park
• Tips for visiting Palm Springs
• Where to stay in Palm Springs
• All the activities to do in Palm Springs and in the surrounding area

Welcome to one of the most beautiful and vibrant cities in all of California. There are beautiful beaches, charming parks, many events, and elegant neighborhoods … in short, it is a city where it is really hard to get bored!

• Things to do in San Diego
• Where to stay in San Diego
• Cheap hotels in San Diego
• All the activities to do in San Diego
• San Diego Pass and Card: Free access to 45 activities or tours :

Los Angeles

It is one of the great American cities and is known worldwide for Hollywood, beautiful beaches, and events. Below you’ll find some tips to make the most of the time spent in Los Angeles.

• Things to do in Los Angeles
• Guided Tours
• Los Angeles Passes: The best passes to visit the city

Theme Parks:

• Universal Studios
• Search for a hotel in Los Angeles
• Los Angeles travel guide

Travel Calendar and Resources

• Day 1 : Arrival in San Francisco
• Days 2-3 : Visit San Francisco
• Day 4 : San Francisco – Yosemite Park (Arch Rock Entrance) (3 1/2 hours)
• Day 5 : Yosemite (Tioga Pass) – Death Valley (4 hours)
• Day 6 : Death Valley – Las Vegas (2 hours 20)
• Days 7-8 : Las Vegas – Bryce Canyon (4 hours)
• Day 9 : Bryce Canyon – Antelope Canyon (2 1/2 hours)
• Day 10 : Antelope Canyon – Monument Valley (2 hours)
• Day 11 : Monument Valley – Grand Canyon (3 hours)
• Day 12 : Grand Canyon – Kingman (2 hours 40)
• Day 13 : Kingman – Palm Springs (3 hours 40)
• Day 14 : Palm Springs – San Diego (2 hours)
• Days 15-16 : San Diego
• Day 17 : San Diego – Los Angeles (2 hours)
• Days 18-20 : Visit Los Angeles

Recommended Accommodations

Argonaut Hotels

Located in the Fisherman’s Wharf area, this hotel allows you to experience life at the harbor firsthand and has charming nautical-style decor.

Yosemite Park

Double Eagle Resort & Spa, June Lake

Located in a strategic area, just 35 minutes from the Tioga Pass, you can have a comfortable stay here after crossing the park from West to East, just as it was outlined in the itinerary above. It is a mountain resort set in nature. While it is rustic, it offers guests all amenities, including a spa, a restaurant, a gym, and a conference center.

Death Valley

The Inn at Death Valley

This is the most beautiful hotel in Death Valley. It is made of adobe and is built in a 1920’s retro style with palm trees, springs, gardens, and much more. The Inn has a truly unique atmosphere.

The Venetian

There are some unique hotels in Las Vegas, but how about a magnificent structure where you can relive the splendor of the Republic of Venice? Here, in addition to providing all kinds of amenities, you will also find reconstructions of the most important monuments in Venice.

Bryce Canyon

A hotel with a Southwest atmosphere. Excellent for the proximity to the park (about 10 minutes), amenities (with many rooms with Jacuzzi attached), and the many Far West attractions nearby that can be kitsch but still fun.

Lake Powell Resort

This hotel is the ideal choice for those who love to be in nature and want to stay at a hotel overlooking one of the most famous lakes in the Southwest. Guests will enjoy the view of the lake from their rooms or from the beautiful restaurant.

Just like in the case of the Lake Powell Resort, it’s the view that makes all the difference. Have you always wanted to spend the night right in front of the famous red monoliths of Monument Valley? Then this is the hotel you’re looking for.

Another hotel where you can enjoy a unique panorama, in this case, that of the Grand Canyon. This lodge has rustic and elegant rooms and is the ideal place to stay in the area.

Best Western Plus King’s Inn and Suites

Kingman is best known for being on Route 66 and, in fact, in this beautiful hotel, you will see many references to the legendary road in the main rooms.

L’Horizon Resort & Spa

This resort is characterized by a refined interior design, a luxurious spa, and all the services and amenities you may need during  your stay in this quirky oasis.

The Pearl Hotel

A lively hotel with a sea-inspired theme. Its design is inspired by the 1950s and contemporary influences. At the Pearl Hotel, there are 2 swimming pools, a restaurant, and many other amenities.

Oceana Santa Monica

A high-class hotel in Santa Monica. Some suites have  ocean views: the best way to rest at the end of an on the road like this!

Recommended Activities

• Disneyland in Los Angeles
• Universal Studios in Los Angeles
• Grand Canyon helicopter tour
• SeaWorld San Diego
• Car rental from San Francisco to Los Angeles

Warning: Operating hours can change and closures for extraordinary events can occur, so we strongly suggest to check the venues official websites.

Bernardo Pacini

I am an enthusiastic traveler. I have also published some poetry. Besides traveling, my interests include literature, prog music and good food,.

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3 Week USA Holidays

Enjoy a great American adventure at any time of the year. Three weeks means time for touring and exploring with perhaps a few days to relax in a National Park or beach resort.

Consider a car, motorhome, coach tour or even a rail holiday – we can advise on what’s most suitable for you. Or visit some of America’s great cities, where you will find plenty to see and do.

Check out the holiday ideas below, then ask your Freedom Expert to design the perfect holiday for you.

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3 Weeks South America Itinerary

DISCLAIMER: This post might have links to travel services and products that we enjoy. We might make a commission from it at no extra cost to you.

South America is such a massive continent; to be honest, 3 weeks here can be challenging. On the other hand, knowing what you want to do, see, and enjoy in South America will make your travel itinerary much easier to visualise and create .

3 weeks in South America, if you are coming from Europe, North America, or Asia, should be decided based on what you want to do. Remember, being in the southern hemisphere. The climate timeline is different here . For example, if you want to enjoy the stunning beaches of Brazil, you should come from December to April. If you want to go skiing, come visit from June to August.

In this guide about a 3 weeks South America itinerary, I will show you different options depending on the things you want to do and places you want to enjoy , from beach bumming to exploring the famous and so beautiful Andes Mountains.

ALSO READ: Smart packing for 3 weeks holiday trip

THINGS TO REMEMBER KNOW BEFORE GOING TO SOUTH AMERICA

To plan your trip better and assemble a more feasible itinerary, it’s vital that you know this basic information. Below are useful tips about when to go to South America, how to get around, cost, and more:

Best time to go to South America

Before diving in, let’s discuss a little about when to go to South America. As I mentioned before, you should know what you want to do here. Officially, s ummer starts in December and ends in March ; winter begins in June and ends in September . This continent is massive, so the seasons varies per country.

The best time to go to South America for summer is around November to avoid the big crowds and the heat or late March . If you don’t mind the crowd, plan your trip from December to February.

The best time to visit South America for winter activities such as skiing is between July and August . If you want to avoid that but still enjoy bearable winter, plan your trip around June or the end of September.

Are 20 days enough for South America

The simple answer is no. South America is a huge continent, and 20 days won’t cover it. But, you can maximise your 3 weeks in South America if you plan well. Choose to cover 2-3 countries for this trip . When deciding, consider countries that are next to each other or has a direct flight for easier access.

This will save you time and make travelling more comfortable . Another thing that can help you make the most out of your trip is deciding how you plan to move around, which I will discuss on the next section below.

How to get around South America

There are various ways to get around in this region. This includes planes, buses, trains, boats, cars, and even horses. The buses are the most affordable mode of transportation . Trains can only be seen in limited areas.

Renting a car can be a good idea , but not 100%, since more than half of the region sits on the Andes Mountains, and the terrain can be challenging. In this way, taking a domestic flight or the train will be a better choice .

Average cost of 3 weeks South America trip

The cost of a 20-day trip in South America can be hard to predict. This is because the cost of living in each place varies a lot. But to give you some ideas, on average, around $2,000 will be a decent mid-range budget for 3 weeks South America vacation . You can stay in a private room, eat out once or twice a day, and book some mid-range tours.

On the other hand, if you are on a tight budget, you can go with $1,300 for three weeks in South America if you don’t mind staying in hostel dorm rooms , eating street food most of the time, and booking a more affordable group tour.

For those who plan to travel a bit in luxury, $4,000 will go a long way . You can book a few nights in a 5-star hotel, dine at nicer restaurants, and taxi/uber your way around. You could even sign up for private ground tours here and there.

These prices are for a single person and don’t include flights to and from South America.

Other basic travel tips

The travel websites below are my favourite places to book my travel arrangements. Most of these offers flexible cancellation and a wide selection depending on my budget. I highly recommend you book the accommodations first, especially if you plan to go during peak season. You can always cancel it later if you change your mind.

PINNED MAP OF THINGS TO SEE IN SOUTH AMERICA

The pins are colour-coded to help you identify each itinerary or trail. To enlarge the map, click the top right corner icon. Credit: Map data: Google

3 WEEKS SOUTH AMERICA ITINERARY

Now to the fun part! I made four different itineraries for 3 weeks South America trip depending on the places and activities you want to do. Check out which one you prefer below. I also added tips on visiting each place or country.

Every tourist, traveller, and holidaymaker is different. Some like to stay in one place for a longer time and explore as much as possible, Others don’t mind airports and like to see as many countries and cities as possible during their time off from work.

So me people also want to relax during a vacation , sit on the beach, read a book, or enjoy a cold drink. Some want to learn history, visit museums, and talk to the locals.

Others are the ones who find the outdoors more enjoyable . And, of course, the people who love to enjoy each country through its cousin.

I will try my best to accommodate all kinds of travellers. I hope you will find a thing or two to add to your 3 weeks South America itinerary.

Package Tours

Most people who want to do a DIY 20-day South America trip are often backpackers and younger people since they have the patience, energy, and looking to spend as little as possible. However, there are people who prefer a more relaxing and hassle-free trip.

If you’re this kind of traveller or simply looking to just pack your bags and show up at the airport, booking a package tour might be more suitable for you.

The tour company will handle all the booking from accommodation, transportation, food, activities, tour guides, and porters. All you have to do is not miss your flight from your home to the first destination. Here are a few package tours for 3 weeks in South America.

The Gringo Trail

The Gringo Trail is the counterpart of the famous Banana Pancake Trail in Southeast Asia. It’s a famous backpacker’s trail because it highlights the top attractions of the countries in this region, but also attracts those looking for affordability .

This trail in Latin America involves up to 13 countries, from Mexico all the way down to Chile. There’s no specific trail though . What happens is each traveller would create their own itinerary featuring the countries on this trail and handpick the locations based on their budget, time frame, and style of travelling.

The countries along the Gringo Trail are Mexico, Belize, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, El Salvador, Costa Rica , Panama, Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and also Brazil. If you look at the map, it’s basically the countries in the western part of Latin America.

When I did my first backpacking in South America, my Gringo Trail includes Brazil, Colombia, then Peru. This allows me to see the top sites in this region such as Rio, Medellin, and Machu Picchu.

Itinerary #1: Summer Trail (Ecuador, Peru, Chile)

If you want to escape the northern hemisphere’s winter and head down to South America, this beach trail for a 3-week trip is perfect . As you can see, I’ve listed three countries, but it doesn’t mean you should visit all of them.

You can either stay in one country and enjoy it or hop on planes if you have the energy and curiosity because you are visiting major summer destinations in South America.

I believe beaches in the west of South America are not as remarkable as the Caribbean, Brazil, or Southeast Asia, except for the Galapagos Islands. However, it has its own unique charm that will take your breath away not to mention these are affordable destinations .

Plus, there is less crowd here, meaning you can enjoy your peace and quiet during your vacation. If you prefer to explore the Caribbean, here’s our Central America 3 weeks itinerary .

As a country sitting right on top of the Andes Mountains, there are only a few places to go for some Vitamin Sea. Most tourists and locals head to the northwest part of Colombia. These beach spots face the stunning Caribbean Sea.

Barranquilla and Cartagena are the two most popular beach towns in Colombia . What I love the most about these places is how you enjoy the unbelievable beauty of the Caribbean without paying the price.

Compared to St. Lucia, Barbados, and Aruba – Barranquilla and Cartagena are much more affordable. Check out our 3 weeks in Colombia itinerary or do a combo of Ecuador and Colombia 3-week trip .

During your visit, the must-see places in Colombia for the summer holiday are Islas Del Rosario Catamaran for a snorkelling trip , La Boquilla and the Mangroves, Playa Blanca , Isla Grande, and Totumo mud volcano .

Many of the islands can be reached through a booked boat tour. Make sure to enjoy a sunset Cartagena sunset cruise , and experience a bioluminescent plankton night tour .

If we are talking about beaches in Ecuador, one place that will come to mind right away is the Galapagos Island, which is not only famous for its stunning beaches but for its marine animals such as marine iguanas, tortoises, penguins, and sea lions .

Another beach area you should add to your list is Salinas . It is an excellent spot for the surfer and other wind and water sports. If you are landing at Olmeda International Airport in Guayaquil, Salina is just an easy 144-kilometre (90 mi) drive.

If you want to avoid the crowd, just an hour north of Salina is Ayangue . It’s much quieter and more relaxing. Here, you can enjoy some small hiking trails, jump off the cliffs, or simply enjoy a book and a cold drink.

You can visit Puerto Cayo, Mompiche, General Villamil, and Playa Los Frailes for summer in Ecuador. We also have an itinerary for three weeks in Ecuador .

Peru has it all. The beauty of the Andes, great glacier lakes, bustling cities, old towns, and the cost. When I visited this country, I could literally go from freezing weather to a hot and perfect day for surfing on the same day. I flew from Cusco to Lima and experienced just that.

But let’s talk about the beach for now. Lima has so much to offer you if you enjoy the wind and water sports combo. You can visit Miraflores, where you can head out and catch some wind by windsurfing or paragliding or swimming with the wild sea lions at Palomino Islands .

You can also simply take a nice walk along the beach or by the boardwalk if you don’t like sand on your feet.

This area is very developed, you can find many restaurants to eat at, malls for shopping, and lots of little cafes by the shore.

If you prefer to be on your own and away from the crowd, head to Cabo Blanco, Los Organos, Huanchaco, and Las Pocitas. Where you can either go surfing or read a book at peace, these are the areas that are popular with the locals too.

Itinerary #2: Winter or Climbing Trip (Chile and Argentina)

Some people, especially children, get their long vacation off from work during summer to match the school break. If you are looking for some winter fun during the summer in Europe or Northern America, check out this 3 weeks South America itinerary for winter.

Because of the precious Andes Mountains, the countries of Chile and Argentina are all perfect for all winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding. Ski resorts here are a bit cheaper than in North America or Europe, but nonetheless, magnificent.

The most popular ski resort in Chile is Valle Nevado , just outside Santiago. Sitting in the heart of Nevado mountain, you know you will get the best winter in Chile here. You can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and heli-skiing.

If you are a beginner, don’t worry, you can get classes here as well. Valle Nevado also offers to lodge and hosts lots of events, but if you prefer to just stop by for one-day visit, you can do that as well.

If you want fewer crowds, La Parva , literally next to Valle Nevado, is probably more suitable for you. It is sitting in the middle of three valleys, giving you a handful of options for places to explore. They offer vast choices of winter activities, lodging, and other fun events to enjoy, from young children to adults.

The best time to go skiing in Chile is from July until mid-September . I recommend it towards the end since the crowd will be slimmer or in early July. You can also spend an entire 3 weeks in Chile itinerary .

Personally, I think Argentina is the best winter spot in South America . There are many options, whether you are looking for a fancy one, affordable, great for beginners, or a place for some challenging slopes.

Catedral Alta Patagonia is the most popular place for skiing , located near the border to Chile, southwest of Buenos Aires; it’s worth the travel, though. With 1,480 acres of fine snow, there is so much you can do here. No wonder they also host international skiing competitions and their own local matches.

Apart from skiing, you can go snowboarding, and bring your young children to the snow park, and play park . If you are a pro skier or looking for some challenges, there are many spots that expert skiers are only allowed to use.

You can definitely experiment and test your skills. They have accommodation, restaurants, and other activities. You can easily spend a week here.

If you don’t want to go too far from Buenos Aires, Las Lenas ski resort might be better for you . It’s also located near Santiago, just right at the border. However, this is a smaller ski resort and more suitable for beginners. They offer classes and courses for beginners at different levels.

The ski season in Argentina is from mid-June until later October , but I recommend you go between July and September. If you only want to see Argentina, we have a 3-week itinerary for Argentina .

Itinerary #3: The Andes (Peru, Bolivia, Chile)

The Andes or Andean is definitely my favourite part of South America. It’s beautiful like no other, massive, and offers such diverse places to see. A large portion of South America sits on the top of the Andes , you can’t visit this continent and not explore a bit of it.

In this part of the 3 weeks in South America itinerary, I will show you the places that you must not miss that feature the Andes region.

Both Peru and Chile are huge countries with so much to offer – from beaches, and old cities, to mountains. I won’t even blame you if you decide just to stay put and explore in either country instead of hopping off to another country.

Below are three itineraries – only Peru, only Chile, and a combination of Peru, Chile, and Bolivia.

You can enjoy many activities here whenever you decide to come. For example, if you are looking for beach time, Lima offers surfing or a simple lay on the beach, book on hand. There are literally dozens of mountains to climb and hundreds of hiking trails for hiking.

And for a historical visit, well, Peru has so much to tell you. If you want to hike to Machu Picchu, keep in mind to check different options for Inca Trail Hike depending on your preference. We also have an extensive 3 weeks in Peru itinerary .

• Day 1-7: Cusco – Spend 2 days acclimating yourself before heading to Machu Picchu. While in the city, you can enjoy some pico sour, traditional Peruvian meals such as ceviche, and visit many places and mountains around the city, such as Rainbow Mountain and Maras (for salt mine exploration, quad biking).
• Remember that for visiting Machu Picchu, for a short trip , you can do a day trip, if you want to hike, you can choose between 2 days to 4 days. What I did was I took a train, stayed for the night, hiked up to the citadel of Machu Picchu (where you can see the famous view), then hiked to the top of the mountain, and finally, hiked down to the town and took the train next day back to Cusco.
• Day 8-12 : Arequipa – For history lovers, this part of Peru will blow your mind. Arequipa will show you Peru during the colonial era. It is also surrounded by 3 volcanoes, built with baroque-style buildings, and with a cherry on top, 17th-century neoclassical Basilica Cathedral.
• Make sure to visit the historic centre of Plaza de Armas, Iglesia de la Compania, and get out of the city to visit Colca Canyon, Peru’s version of the Grand Canyon.
• Day 13-15 : Fly to Huascarán National Park (connect in Lima) – If you want to see some pretty impressive glacier lakes of South America courtesy of the Andes Mountains, then get yourself to Huascarán National Park.
• It is over 400 km (249 mi) north of Lima, and while it has an airport, you will have to connect to Lima. Huascarán National Park has so many glacier lakes, but the best is Lake 69 , Laguna Cancaragá, and Laguna Paron .
• Day 15-21: Lima – Peru’s capital also has a lot to offer. From its fantastic beach where you can enjoy surfing and other water + wind sports combo, to fantastic outdoor activities such as repelling, canyoning, and sandboarding. Don’t forget to explore Malecon Miraflores, Barranco, and Huaca Pucllana. Get yourself a ticket for a hop-on, hop-off bus, which will make your city sightseeing much more convenient.

Chile’s most popular regions are the Patagonia and Atacama deserts. They are the opposite of each other, both in location and in things to offer. When you look at the map of Chile, you can easily say where the Atacama Desert is, the entire north of Chile is part of this desert . Santiago, the capital, is sitting at the border between these two regions.

REMEMBER : Direct flights to Chile are almost non-existent unless you are already in the region (coming from Argentina, Peru, etc). But if you are coming all the way from the US, Europe, or Asia, you might have to connect somewhere in between.

In a 3 weeks South America itinerary, you can cover both areas with plenty of time to enjoy both. I will start in the Atacama desert but if you want to start in the South, simply reverse the itinerary. Here is our recommended itinerary for 3 weeks in Chile only:

• Day 1-5 : Arrive at Aeropuerto Andrés Sabella (ANF) and base yourself in a small town called San Pedro de Atacama. Even though it’s a small area, there are plenty of accommodations to choose from. I recommend you spend the first day acclimatising your body until you are ready to explore.
• From here, you can visit Valle de la Luna, the smoking and active Geysers del Tatio, and Lagunas Escondidas to cool off if you are feeling hot. It’s best if you book a tour to avoid some hassles. Don’t forget to visit the famous Los Flamencos National Reserve.
• Day 6-9 : Make your way to Santiago , where you can explore the urban city and meet the old city. While Santiago is highly developed with lots of high-rise buildings, exploring the area long enough, you will come across the undisturbed part of the city.
• Visit the tallest skyscraper in Santiago called Costanera Centre, which also functions as a mall, especially floors 61 & 62. Explore Museo de Arte Pre-colombino, and join a delicious wine-tasting tour . You can also take a day trip from Santiago to Valparaiso, Vina del Mar, and Casablanca Valley .
• Day 10-15 : Now, off to the Patagonia region. Head to Coyhaique, from here, you can visit El Fraile if you want to ski, but this place is mainly for young children and beginners.
• About 100 km away is the magnificent Marble Cages located in Rio Ibanez. Don’t miss the Reserva Nacional Cerro Castillo for beautiful glacier lakes, hiking, and boating.
• Day 16-21 : The last bit of your trip, we must make the most out of it. Make your way to Punta Arenas, also known as the gateway to Antarctica. This is where tourists and researchers leave to head to Antarctica.
• From here, you can enjoy a magnificent area filled with penguins at Isla Magdalena. A little bit up north, from Puerto Natales, you can hop into a Patagonian Fjords tour and, of course, visit Torres del Paine National Park .

Now, for our airport lovers, you can visit all these three countries in 3 weeks. However, remember that you will have to choose just one place in each country. Personally, I don’t recommend this because the distance is too much and you will spend so much time at the airport, connecting flights and buses.

If you really want to, the places I recommend you to combine are:

• Peru, Bolivia, Chile
• Brazil, Paraguay, Argentina
• Peru, Chile, Argentina

Itinerary #4: Southern Trail (Chile, Argentina, Uruguay)

If you are eager to enjoy the Southern part of this continent and, perhaps, reach the southernmost point, this 3 weeks in South America itinerary will be perfect for you. Maybe you are even considering getting on a boat and exploring stunning Antarctica .

The only thing I want you to remember about this trail is:

Fo r Chile, choose between the Atacama Desert and Patagonia. If you have already visited Patagonian on the Chilean side, you can skip the Argentinian side and head to the north instead.

Then, stick to the coast in Uruguay and don’t miss Montevideo, Playa Balconada, and Uruguay National Park.

Itinerary #5: Exploring Brazil (Sao Paulo, Rio De Janeiro, Amazon River)

Of course, I easily can’t justify 3 weeks in South America without talking about Brazil. It’s such a massive country that I can only recommend it if you decide to spend the entire 20-day holiday here because there is just so much to see. From world-class beaches to the gateway of the Amazon River.

Brazil is such a vast country that you can only visit these three significant places by taking flights . Regardless, you can definitely spend 3 weeks in Brazil. I recommend you spend about one week in each place and then take a flight to the next.

Remember that in the Amazon River, you must take a tour for your safety and ensure you have a fun time.

When visiting, don’t miss out on seeing Christ the Redeemer in Rio, Copacabana Beach, Ipanema, and Sugarloaf Mountain. Rocinha Favela, Escadaria Selaron, and the annual Carnival Festival .

You can also head to Sao Paulo, not so far from Rio. In this city, you can visit the famous Museo de Futbol, and explore the areas of Santos, Sao Vicenta, and Guaruja . Make sure to book a city tou r to make the most of your time there.

FINAL WORDS

South America is a huge continent, and travelling here for 3 weeks is challenging. It’s best to focus on just 1-2 countries and then come back for another time. It’s not like Europe, where you can simply hop on an hour-long flight or a quick bus ride or train journey. The flights here take longer and are more expensive.

Instead of trying to visit more places, be present and enjoy each region you will be exploring. I hope you found this 3 weeks South America itinerary helpful.

SAVE THIS ITINERARY ON YOUR PINTEREST:

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Grand Tour America

Visit NYC, Philadelphia, Washington DC, BRP, GSM NP, Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, Texas, Route 66, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon NP, Zion NP, Las Vegas, Yosemite NP, San Fran, PCH & LA

Home > Find A Road Trip > Coast to Coast > Grand Tour America

at six weeks, this is our longest and most epic road trip across the USA!

Span the whole of the USA on our fantastic Grand Tour America road trip.  Experience many of America’s bucket list places over six or more amazing weeks as you cross the country from New York to Los Angeles. Start in New York City, and then cruise west, visiting three major East Coast cities, The Deep South, Texas, National Parks and finally, California along this 4,500-mile route.

Key road trip highlights:

• Start by visiting three of the East Coast’s best cities – New York, Philadelphia and Washington DC.
• Drive along many of America’s very best roads, including Skyline Drive, The Blue Ridge Parkway, Pacific Coast Highway and a section of old Route 66.
• Discover America’s Deep South’s music, food, and warm welcome by visiting Nashville, Memphis, historic Natchez, and laid-back New Orleans.
• Cruise clean across Texas, stopping in Houston, Austin, Dallas and Forth Worth. Want to add San Antonio or a stop on a ranch? Then just let us know.
• Witness the outstanding natural beauty of Monument Valley and the National Parks of Shenandoah, Great Smoky Mountains, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Zion, Death Valley and Yosemite.
• Finish off this ultimate cross-country adventure with a week or more in the West Coast’s three premier cities – Las Vegas, San Francisco and Los Angeles.
• What’s included? Direct flights with a premier carrier, accommodation, car rental and a detailed road trip pack.
• Please Note:  This particular road trip takes a day and a half to quote for, so unfortunately, we have to charge a fee of £199 to provide a full, detailed quote. Should you book, this cost is removed from the trip’s price. However, if you’re just looking for rough guidance on price, let us know, and we can happily provide this without any cost.

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Our Favourite Hotels

We’ll suggest properties to match your preferred budget, be it low-cost, mid-range or high-end luxury that you’re looking for. We can also mix it up so you’ll experience a range of standards and experiences along your road trip.

The Civilian

New York City

Evergreen Lodge

Yosemite National Park

The View Hotel & Cabins

Monument Valley

The Garland

Los Angeles

Thompson Hotel

Virgin Hotel

New Orleans

Bellagio Hotel

Road Trip Itinerary

All of our American road trips can be tailored to meet your requirements. Do you have more or less than 42 days for your road trip? No problem, we can bolt on extra nights to allow more time to explore or shorten the number of destinations as required.

Arguably, the world's greatest city - new york city

Enjoy four unforgettable days exploring arguably the world’s premier city. An epicentre for the arts and America’s dining, theatre and shopping capital – New York City wears many crowns. Suppose you still have the energy after your flight and you arrive early enough. In that case, we recommend you start your adventure with an open-top bus tour of the city. This will help you familiarise yourself with the Big Apple’s layout and tick off many of its famous sights. Your Road Trip Pack will be full of recommendations of where to eat and what to see and do during your stay.

New York, NY

New York City offers so much to see and do

Explore Midtown Manhattan today, highlights include shopping on 5th Avenue, Grand Central Station, the New York Public Library, Bryant Park, Times Square, Broadway and the Rockefeller Centre – just make sure you leave time to visit either the Top of The Rock or The Empire State Building as the sunsets, to witness the city’s lights come alive across the Big Apple.

discover downtown on your third day in new york

A third day to explore New York, go downtown to the business district or the uber-cool neighbourhoods like Greenwich or Soho. Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty can be visited by catching a boat from Battery Park on the southern tip of Manhattan. The Financial District is also located downtown and is anchored by Wall St, home to the New York Stock Exchange, and the National September 11 Memorial and Museum.

a fourth and final day to enjoy New York City

Manhattan’s Central Park offers a break from the stresses of city life, watch joggers and dog walkers stretch their legs amongst more than 800 acres of well-maintained lawns, boating ponds and even a castle and a zoo. While in uptown Manhattan, you can visit the world-renowned Natural History Museum on the Upper West Side, or if art is more your thing, head to the Upper East Side’s Met and Guggenheim Museums.

collect your car and drive south to Philadelphia

Start your road trip by heading south to the “Birthplace of America”, Philadelphia. Known as Philly to locals, you’ll have two nights to get familiar with the capital of Pennsylvania. In the evening, you may want to take a riverside stroll and head to Race Street Pier for an incredible sunset and nighttime view of the Benjamin Franklin Bridge.

Philadelphia, PA

a second day to enjoy Philadelphia's highlights

Any visit to Philadelphia will only be complete by consuming an authentic and delicious ‘Philly Cheese Steak’ sandwich. You can enjoy these guilty pleasures in the foodie heaven that is Reading Market and at establishments all over the city. To burn off those calories, recreate the famous scene from the film ‘Rocky’ by climbing the 72 steps outside the Philadelphia Museum of Art (pictured).

cruise south from philadelphia to washington, dc

Your detailed Road Trip Pack will be the perfect companion to explore Washington, DC and all the other destinations along this route. You may want to begin by taking a self-guided tour of some of Washington’s iconic buildings. The White House, Capitol Hill and the Lincoln Memorial are just some of the key buildings that can be visited. Arlington lies across the Potomac River, a must-see for history and military enthusiasts.

Washington, DC

a full day to discover more of washington's attractions

You may want to dip into some of the famous Smithsonian Museums today, and there are many to choose from. The most notable, the Air & Space Museum and the Museum of Natural History, are on the National Mall, in the city’s heart. Best of all, they’re free to visit. Our favourite is the Newseum, which has impressive artefacts chronicling how ‘news’ has changed over the last 100 years.

Leave washington, dc for shenandoah national park

Front Royal marks the start of the legendary Skyline Drive, which cuts through the heart of Shenandoah National Park. Stunning surroundings, abundant wildlife and a 35 mph speed limit mean you’ll easily spend the day meandering this 105-mile leg of your journey. Why not pull into one of the scenic lay-bys and stretch your legs on one of the many trails.

Shenandoah NP

The superb blue ridge parkway awaits...

The best way to explore the Blue Ridge Mountains area is to drive Skyline Drive through the middle of Shenandoah National Park and then the famous Blue Ridge Parkway down to Great Smoky Mountain National Park. These are two of America’s truly great roads, making the most of the stunning mountain views with the famous blue haze.

Blue Ridge Parkway

another day enjoying the blue ridge parkway

The world-famous Blue Ridge Parkway and Appalachian Trail roll across this picturesque mountain region. As you cruise south, you’ll witness outstanding scenery around every corner. Old-time mountain music can be heard regularly, and wineries and craft breweries offer tastings in small towns and on mountain slopes.

Final stop on the blue ridge parkway... asheville, nc

Our route will continue south along the Blue Ridge Parkway to Asheville, North Carolina. Some of today’s drive’s primary points of interest will include Lynn Cove, Grandfather Mountain and Linville Falls. Asheville has numerous farmers’ markets to try, and the restaurant scene takes advantage of the seasonal produce sold there. Take advantage of the microbreweries too!

Asheville, NC

Asheville to Great Smoky Mountains National Park

You’ll complete the Blue Ridge Parkway on your way to Great Smoky Mountains National Park today, where you’ll find ridge upon ridge of forest, which straddles the border between North Carolina and Tennessee. Great Smoky Mountains is America’s most visited National Park, so a second day to scour its gorgeous landscape for wildlife is essential. Look out for furry residents roaming the region; these include black bears, bobcats, racoons and elk. Great Smoky Mountains National Park is a fantastic place to visit at any time of year; however, during autumn, the trees put on a dazzling show of colour for hikers and road-trippers to enjoy.

Great Smoky Mountains NP

return to city life again, welcome to nashville

Nashville is the home of Country Music, and it’s so very proud of it. Music City boasts about its musical heritage at every turn, no more so than in the fantastic Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s not all about country music, though, this fast-growing city also has a rich blues history, along with singers and songwriters from every other musical genre who call ‘Music City’ their home.

Nashville, TN

a second day to enjoy the sights and sounds of nashville

Enjoy a full day in Nashville. Head to the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge (colloquially known in Nashville as the ‘Pedestrian Bridge’), which spans the Cumberland River. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a better view of the expanding Nashville skyline anywhere. Tonight, for the complete tourist experience, head down to lively Broadway and stop by a honky tonk or two for a one-of-a-kind night on the town.

drive west from nashville to soulful memphis

Continue west through Tennessee to find Memphis. Second only to The White House, Elvis Presley’s Graceland is arguably the most iconic home in America. Memphis has plenty more to offer visitors, including the legendary Sun Records Studios and the moving National Civil Rights Museum.

Memphis, TN

a second day to enjoy the food and music of memphis

Spend a second day visiting the sights of Memphis and enjoying the delicious soul food on offer. Memphis is arguably the Barbecue Capital of America, so if you’re not a vegetarian, make sure you try a rib joint or two whilst in town. Lastly, Beale Street is an amazing place to socialise with locals and other visitors from around the US and beyond.

drive through the mississippi delta to historic natchez

Natchez lies on a bluff overlooking the Mississippi River, with former plantation homes and a few small towns, which gave birth to “The Blues,” dotted along this route through the Mississippi Delta. Depending on your arrival time in Natchez, try to include a visit to Emerald Mound and Grand Village to learn more about the area’s rich Native American heritage.

Natchez, MS

new orleans and all that jazz!

Follow the Great River Road south to New Orleans, or ‘The Big Easy’ as it’s also known. Along the way, Oak Alley Plantation is a must-visit for anyone interested in the region’s dark history. After arriving at your New Orleans hotel, which sits at the mouth of the mighty Mississippi River, you can step out into the lively French Quarter, which will be waiting to offer you dinner, drinks, and a grand finale in a unique style that only “The Big Easy” can offer.

New Orleans, LA

enjoy a second day in 'the big easy'

New Orleans is a vibrant, sultry city. This will be your final full day to explore New Orleans’ must-see attractions. Take a ride on a Streetcar, taste a sugary beignet and enjoy a stroll around the Garden District. Whether you call it NOLA, The Big Easy or just plain old New Orleans, we’re confident this vibrant city will stay with you for many years.

cruise through cajun country to houston

Leave New Orleans early and spend the morning driving through Cajun Country to Houston in Texas. As you approach Houston, you can visit the NASA Johnson Space Center, where you can witness the thrills of being an astronaut, gape at gigantic space rockets, or stand in the location that oversaw the moon landings and Apollo 13. The sprawling city of Houston has excellent museums, dining and shopping options, and it’s a truly cosmopolitan metropolis. The fourth largest city in the US, with towering skyscrapers dominating downtown Magnolia City.

Houston, TX

drive from Houston to cool and trendy Austin

Onto the Capital City of Texas. Austin is also the self-proclaimed live music capital of the world; it also has an excellent food scene and loves anything that’s a little offbeat – its unofficial motto is “Keep Austin Weird”. How about a refreshing swim to cool off? Then, dive into the Barton Springs Pool in Zilker Park. Finish your day off in the bustling bars, restaurants and entertainment venues found on Sixth Street after checking out the nightly flights of the free-tailed bats that call Congress Avenue Bridge home.

depart austin for dallas & fort worth

Arrive in the neighbouring cities of Dallas and Fort Worth today. Today, you’ll start by exploring Dallas, with a past and present rich in what American legends are made of. The ‘Big D’ is famous for its contributions to popular culture – notably the Cowboys and their cheerleaders, and Dallas, the TV series that once was a worldwide symbol of the USA. Check out the Reunion Tower, which gives you a 360-degree view of the city from its observation deck. Further highlights include The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, chronicling JFK’s assassination and its aftermath. Check out Deep Ellum; this former warehouse district is home to live music, brewpubs and restaurants with incredible barbecue and Tex-Mex.

Dallas & Fort Worth, TX

a full day to absorb fort worth's cowboy culture

Put on your cowboy hat and spend a while discovering Fort Worth’s Wild West heritage and highlights. Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is the primary draw here, where you can watch a cattle parade and maybe even a live rodeo. Finish the day (or night) off with a visit to the iconic watering hole that is Billy Bob’s Texas, the largest Honky Tonk on the planet. Be sure to practice your line dancing and even bull riding before you arrive.

time to join The Mother Road - Route 66

We’ll show you the way to Amarillo today; as always, your meticulous Road Trip Pack will detail a recommended route along with all the things you can see and do along today’s route. Finish the day’s drive by joining historic Route 66 in the heart of the Texas Panhandle. Cadillac Ranch, just outside Amarillo, is a classic, fun Route 66 stop that’s not to be missed.

Amarillo, TX

take route 66 to beautiful sante fe, new mexico

Cruise west along an old section of the original “Mother Road” to find the Spa Town of Santa Fe. Art lovers should visit The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum whilst in town. It’s a beautiful celebration of her life’s work and her love for the State of New Mexico.

Santa Fe, NM

drive from santa fe to majestic monument valley

More Wild West scenery today as you continue west to the magical landscape of Monument Valley, which sits on the border between Arizona and Utah. It’s a long drive today, but it’s a scenic cruise for most of the route. At its conclusion, you’ll be rewarded with an awe-inspiring sight as you witness the sunset over the proud and majestic “Mittens” of Monument Valley. This is another chance to prove your photography skills, as the landscape and sky turn to every shade of orange and red.

by amazed by the size and beauty of the grand canyon

The world’s biggest and most famous geological wonder is just staggering. Two billion years in the making, the Colorado River has forged a mile deep, 18 miles wide and 277 mile long gouge into northern Arizona. Tonight, you’ll stay in the heart of this incredible National Park, close to the canyon’s rim. Our Road Trip Experts will help you decide whether the North or South Rim of the Grand Canyon is the best overnight stop for your party.

Grand Canyon NP

The Grand Canyon to bryce canyon national park

Drive west to Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its unique geology consisting of horseshoe-shaped amphitheatres carved from the eastern edge of the Paunsaugunt Plateau. The erosional force of frost-wedging and the dissolving power of rainwater have shaped the colourful limestone rock into bizarre shapes, including slot canyons, windows, fins, and spires called “hoodoos”.

Bryce Canyon NP

bryce canyon national park to zion national park

Zion National Park is stunningly beautiful. Emerald-coloured pools, lush green trees, and rust-red canyon walls are all on show in this picturesque valley. This combination of colours is a visual delight, and the Park’s trails offer the chance to explore nature at its best. The brave and athletic among you may wish to tackle the epic Angel’s Landing trail, culminating at a lofty perch boasting magnificent 360-degree views over the valley below. Alternatively, walk the famous ‘Narrows’, often knee-deep in water. Tonight, enjoy a meal at Zion Lodge or in the neighbouring town of Springdale, which has plenty of local restaurants.

It's time to head to Vegas baby!

Today, you’ll leave the National Parks of Utah and Arizona and head to the bright lights of Las Vegas. However, your detailed Road Trip Pack will advise you to take in one last area of outstanding beauty en route. Valley of Fire State Park offers a super scenic loop drive off the I-15 interstate, so if you can cope with yet more beautiful landscapes, then this is well worth the detour on your way to Las Vegas. Try to arrive in Vegas after the sun has set, and the lights of the world-famous Strip are turned on. This will be a break-taking moment after the numerous dark-sky places you’ve visited over the last few days.

Las Vegas, NV

wake up in the splendid luxury of las vegas

It’s glitzy, tacky and wrong on so many levels… but we love it! Firstly, it’s unique, and secondly, it’s indulgence at its very finest. First-class hotels, classy restaurants and show-stopping entertainment are all located in the middle of a desert landscape, miles from anywhere. Oh, and if you like to gamble, then Las Vegas is the place to be. If your head hurts from the night before, relax by one of the giant pools that adorn every hotel. If not, then walk the legendary Strip, book tickets to one of the world-class shows or shop till you drop – the choice is yours. As for food, we recommend visiting one of the mega buffets available. Just make sure you are hungry when you visit.

leave las vegas for death valley national park

Death Valley has an extreme climate and geology. The roads here are superb, dipping and leaning around curves before straightening out as you fall to 85m below sea level in the salt flats of Badwater. You’ll finish your drive on the snow-capped mountains of the Sierra Nevada. It’s one of the longer driving days but carries with it three awesome experiences.

Death Valley NP

arguably ameriica's best national park - yosemite

Drive north on the super scenic Highway 395. You’ll cruise between sparse desert to the east and massive mountains to the west, passing movie locations and farmland as you drive. Once you reach the weird and wonderful Mono Lake, turn west over the Tioga Pass (open June-October) and enter the majestic Yosemite National Park.

Yosemite NP

a second day to enjoy Yosemite's epic wilderness

Yosemite National Park is over 1,000 square kilometres of awe-inspiring nature. The most popular part of the park is the Valley Floor, where you’ll find vast rock faces, abundant wildlife, staggering views and stunning waterfalls. In the afternoon, drive down to Mariposa Grove to walk amongst giant redwood trees. At sunset, head up to Glacier Point, which offers the very best views in all of Yosemite.

time to hit the pacific coast and san francisco

Spanning the headlands between Marin County and San Francisco, one of the world’s most beautiful bridges, is a delightful experience whether you walk, bike or drive across. Before crossing, you can enjoy stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco beyond it by driving up Conzelman Road on the north side of the Bay. Once you hit town, you can explore San Francisco’s iconic visitor spots for the next two or more days.

San Francisco, CA

a second day in wonderful san francisco

Once the famous San Francisco fog lifts, one of America’s favourite cities will be revealed. Ride a cable car, climb the steep streets and get into the vibe that only San Fran can offer. Full of Victorian charm, famous movie locations and world-leading tech companies, this city has something for everyone. Attractions include Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf, Union Square and curvy Lombard Street, to name just a few.

whale watching and more in monterey bay

Monterey was once California’s capital of the whaling and sardine industry; however, today, it’s best known for the world-class Monterey Bay Aquarium that presides on Cannery Row. Want to experience Monterey Bay first-hand? Then take a whale watching trip during your stay. In the early evening, cruise along the famous “17-Mile Drive” to pretty Carmel-by-the-Sea. Carmel offers two world-class beaches backed by a gorgeous small town with beautiful homes, quality restaurants and quaint streets.

drive the pacific coast highway to santa barbara

Big Sur is arguably the best driving experience in all of America. Cruise down the curvy roads, stopping at State Parks and vista points as you go. One optional stop is Hearst Castle, which perches on “The Enchanted Hill” and overlooks the Pacific Ocean in the distance. Next up is Santa Barbara, which was built in a charming Mediterranean style, thus making it one of the Central Coast’s very best highlights. If this drive is too long for your taste, then we’ll be happy to add an extra stop to cut this drive in half.

Santa Barbara, CA

continue along the pacific coast highway to los angeles

Spend the morning in sunny Santa Barbara. After lunch, you’ll continue driving south along the Pacific Coast Highway, passing Malibu’s beaches and coastal homes until you reach Santa Monica in Los Angeles. Santa Monica, with its “Baywatch” beaches and old-fashioned Pier, is a worthy finish to the day. Hire a bike and cruise the boardwalk to Venice Beach or shop your heart out on 3rd Street Promenade.

Los Angeles, CA

spend the day enjoying hollywood's attractions

Tinseltown is synonymous with glitz and glamour, and although many of the studios have now moved on to other parts of the city, it’s still fun to visit the home of the Oscars and walk Hollywood Boulevard looking for the handprints of your favourite movie stars. The Griffith Observatory is just a short drive northeast of here, perched high on a hill overlooking the city. The landmark is well worth a visit and offers excellent views of the legendary Hollywood sign.

a third day in the city of angels

Beverly Hills offers the chance to see movie star homes on palm tree-lined streets and Rodeo Drive, where you can shop with the rich and famous. The next day, you’ll complete your grand tour of America by spending the morning by the pool or finishing any remaining sightseeing before flying home to the UK from LAX.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can find the solutions to your queries right here. Do you still require assistance? Feel free to get in touch!

Not a problem. If you are lucky enough to have extra time to explore more places or add more rest days, then just let us know and we’ll adjust your trip to match your preferred timescale.

We strongly advise that you purchase travel insurance for your holiday to cover you against medical expenses, theft and other financial costs. Should you need to cancel before travelling, some insurance policies may pay out for any loss of funds that have been paid to us and which cannot be refunded under our cancellation policy.

Many of our trips have a different end destination than the starting point, so this is not a problem. Please note a fee sometimes applies for one-way rentals between other regions or states, which will be paid to the supplier directly when collecting the vehicle. We’ll endeavour to inform you of this charge within your quote.

No, far from it. We work with a range of properties from 3* to 5*, so we can adapt the trip to match most budgets. We have access to rooms in more than 800 hotels, motels, lodges and B&Bs across North America.

The minimum age to rent a car is 21 in the United States or Canada, although, in addition, any drivers under 25 years of age will generally incur a surcharge.

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• South America Tours
• South America 3-Week Itinerary And Tours

South America 3-Week Tours and Itineraries

Discover the best 3-Week multi-day tours in South America with Bookmundi. We offer a total of 18 South America 3-Week tours and itineraries with 72 customer reviews.

• South America Travel Guide

18 South America 3-weeks itineraries and tours

• Starts Lima, Peru
• Ends Santiago, Chile

Southern Divide

• Best price guaranteed
• No booking fees
• Tour Type Small Group Tour
• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer
• Accommodation Hotel, Guest House & Resort
• Transport Train, Flight, Boat, Bus, 4WD Jeep & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 12-95 yrs
• Operated in English
• Brochure Price: US$ 4,699
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 940
• Total Price from: US$ 3,759
• May 17 Only 1 seat left
• Jun 14 Only 6 seats left
• View More Jan 1, 2019 Jan 2, 2019 Jan 3, 2019

• Starts Ushuaia, Argentina
• Ends Ushuaia, Argentina

Spirit of Shackleton

• Tour Type Group Tour
• Activities Photography tours & Wildlife Photography tours , Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer , Sailing, yachting and motor boating , Adventure & Safari 'data-more-tripid='5318'>+6 more
• Accommodation Hotel & Ship Cabin
• Transport Bus, Private Vehicle & Cruise Ship
• Jan 11 Only 2 seats left

• Ends Lima, Peru

Absolute Peru

• Activities Wildlife & Trekking and Hiking Wildlife , Trekking and Hiking , Cultural, religious and historic sites , Explorer & Safari 'data-more-tripid='5125'>+3 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Home-stay, Guest House & Camping
• Transport Flight, Bus, Boat, Train, Private Vehicle & Minibus
• May 01 Only 8 seats left
• May 04 Only 3 seats left

• Ends La Paz, Bolivia

Lima to La Paz: Sandboarding & Sunsets

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Cultural, religious and historic sites Trekking and Hiking , Cultural, religious and historic sites & Explorer 'data-more-tripid='5034'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Hostel, Home-stay, Camping & Lodge
• Transport Train, Bus, Flight, Boat & Private Vehicle
• Age Range 18-39 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,449
• Special Deal (20%): - US$ 690
• Total Price from: US$ 2,759
• May 03 Only 8 seats left
• May 10 10+ seats left

Peru Essentials

• Activities Trekking and Hiking & Walking tours
• Accommodation Hotel, Camping & Home-stay
• Transport Bus, Train, Private Vehicle, Boat & Minibus
• Age Range 15-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 3,055
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 458
• Total Price from: US$ 2,597
• May 18 Only 4 seats left
• Jul 13 Only 2 seats left

• Ends Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Best of Peru, Argentina & Brazil

• Activities Cultural, religious and historic sites
• Accommodation Hotel
• Transport Boat, Train, Bus, Private Vehicle, Flight & Minibus
• Brochure Price: US$ 8,655
• Special Deal (10%): - US$ 865
• Total Price from: US$ 7,790
• Jul 06 Only 4 seats left
• Jul 20 Only 4 seats left

Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica - M/V Greg Mortimer

• Activities Cruise & Polar expeditions and cruise
• Accommodation Hotel, Hut, Ship Cabin & Tent
• Transport Boat & Cruise Ship
• Age Range 16-79 yrs
• Nov 19 10+ seats left
• Dec 18 10+ seats left

• Starts Rio De Janeiro, Brazil

Highlights of South America - 21 days

• Activities Wildlife
• Accommodation Hotel & Luxury Hotel
• Transport Flight, Private Vehicle, Train, Boat & Bus
• Age Range 18-80 yrs
• Jul 29 Only 8 seats left
• Sep 02 Only 8 seats left

The Amazing Peru

• Trip customizable
• Activities Adventure & Trekking and Hiking Adventure , Trekking and Hiking , Cultural, religious and historic sites , City sightseeing , Sightseeing Tours , Natural landmarks sightseeing & National parks 'data-more-tripid='38536'>+5 more
• Accommodation Guest House, Home-stay, Hotel & Sleeper Bus
• Transport Boat, Bus, Flight, Private Vehicle & Train
• Age Range 18-60 yrs

Rio de Janeiro to Santiago Travel Pass

• Activities Natural landmarks sightseeing & Beach Natural landmarks sightseeing , Beach , Waterfalls , Local boat rides & City sightseeing 'data-more-tripid='25755'>+3 more
• Transport Bus, Ferry, Boat & Train
• Age Range 18-99 yrs
• Apr 30 10+ seats left
• May 02 10+ seats left

• Starts San Jose, Costa Rica
• Ends Antigua, Guatemala

San Jose to Antigua Travel Pass

• Activities Adventure & Natural landmarks sightseeing Adventure , Natural landmarks sightseeing & Active and outdoor 'data-more-tripid='36685'>+1 more
• Accommodation Home-stay & Hostel
• Transport 4WD Jeep, Boat & Ferry
• May 01 10+ seats left

Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica - Expedition

• Activities Polar expeditions and cruise & Active and outdoor Polar expeditions and cruise , Active and outdoor & Cruise 'data-more-tripid='35971'>+1 more
• Accommodation Hotel, Resort & Ship Cabin
• Jan 11 10+ seats left

• Starts Puerto Madryn, Argentina

Shackleton's Falklands, South Georgia and Antarctica Expedition (Ocean Endeavour)

• Activities Polar expeditions and cruise & Wildlife
• Accommodation Camping, Hotel & Ship Cabin
• Transport Cruise Ship
• Age Range 8-99 yrs
• Brochure Price: US$ 14,700
• Special Deal (15%): - US$ 2,205
• Total Price from: US$ 12,495
• Oct 30 Only 8 seats left

Falklands, South Georgia & Antarctica

• Activities Cruise & River cruise Cruise , River cruise , Kayaking and canoeing & Wildlife safaris and game drives 'data-more-tripid='43646'>+2 more

South America 3-Weeks Tour Reviews

• Danielle Chaney
• South America budget tours
• Eco tours in South America
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• South America small group tours
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• December 4, 2021
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4 Expertly Curated Three-Week South America Travel Itineraries & Routes

What’s the best travel route for three weeks in south america.

We think visiting two countries in South America is a great idea over three weeks . That gives you around 10 days in each country, which is more than enough to see the best sights.

Here are all the different options we think fit well with three weeks in South America:

• Ecuador & Peru – travelling south through Mainland Ecuador and finishing in Cusco/Machu Picchu
• Peru & Bolivia – starting with the best bits of Peru and ending with the Salt Flats in Bolivia
• Bolivia & Chile – Epic adventure with the Amazon and Salt Flats in Bolivia, and lots of trekking and nature in Chile
• Chile & Argentina – following the wine route through Chile and into the north of Argentina

#1 Three Week South America Itinerary: Ecuador & Peru

• Pros: Cheaper, short easy journeys in Ecuador as it’s mostly buses overland
• Cons: one flight which will add to the cost, No visit to the Galapagos Islands included

Here’s the complete three-week South America itinerary that includes Ecuador, Peru, and Machu Picchu:

• Day 1-2 – Quito
• Day 3-4 – Cotopaxi
• Day 5- 6 – Quilotoa
• Day 7-8 – Banos
• Day 9 – Guayaquil
• Day 10 – Lima

Day 11-12 – Paracas

Day 13-14 – huacachina.

• Day 15 – 16 – Arequipa
• Day 17-21 – Cusco & Machu Picchu

Day 1 – Quito

We are starting this three-week South America itinerary in Ecuador’s capital – Quito.

Whilst there you can explore the UNESCO historical centre, visit the equator line at Mitad Del Mundo , and have a night out on the town. If you are feeling brave you can also attempt your first hike at altitude and climb Volcano Pichincha which looms over the city.  

For more information on what to do in the capital, check out our guides below:

• The 19 Best Things To Do In Quito As A Backpacker
• The 10 Best Backpacker Hostels In Quito

Day 3-4 – Cotopaxi National Park

Now it’s time to spend 2 days at Ecuador’s best hostel – Secret Garden Cotopaxi. The hostel is set in the middle of the national park and has one of the best views in the world, directly opposite Cotopaxi Volcano.

From the hostel, you can plan hikes into the park, go horse-riding across the Andean planes, and even summit Cotopaxi if you are brave enough.

Read our review for all the reasons you need to stay at this hostel:

• Secret Garden Cotopaxi Hostel Review & What To Expect 

Day 5-6 – Quilotoa

After a lovely stay at Cotopaxi is time for more trekking. A short journey will take you to the town of Latacunga. From here you can get a bus to the town of Quilotoa .

The town of Quilotoa is tiny but the main attraction is the huge water-filled crater created by a volcanic eruption around 800 years ago. You can walk to the crater in 5 minutes for incredible views but seeing as you have a full day, aim for the full trek around the crater which can take 4-5 hours.

Day 7-8 - Baños

Baños is the adventure capital of Ecuador.

There’s so much to do here including white-water rafting, hiking, and riding bicycles along a 16km stretch of road known as the ‘Route of Waterfalls’ to the insanely powerful waterfall ‘Pailon del Diablo’,

Banos is also the perfect place to relax! Massage and treatments are cheap here and there are several bath houses with thermal baths fuelled by the volcanoes surrounding the town.

Check out our Baños guide for more information:

• The Essential 4-Day Baños Itinerary 

Day 9 – Guayaquil

After this, you will need a full day to travel to Guayaquil (7-8 hour by bus). Rest up for the night before flying to your next country on this incredible three-week South America itinerary – Peru!

Just 4 hours away from Guayaquil is Ecuador’s west coast. We haven’t included it on this itinerary as it doesn’t quite fit, the surf and party down of Montanita is definitely worth checking out if you are spending longer in Ecuador.

Check out our list of more of the best party beaches in South America if you are interested:

• The Best Party Beaches In South America

Day 10 - Lima

One day in the capital of Peru is more than enough to explore the bohemian district of Barranco and try some amazing regional dishes like ceviche. But there isn’t much here for backpackers so best to move on after a day and use your limited days in the more exciting places.

For more on Lima:

• The Backpackers Guide To Lima
• Lima Vs Cusco: Which Is Better If You Are Short On Time?

Paracas National Park is an untouched natural desert perfect for exploration and adventure. You can navigate the park by tour, bicycle , ATV, or dune buggy. Checking out the park at sunset is a must!

Check out our guides for more info:

• Paracas City Guide & 3 Day Itinerary 
• 4 Ways to Visit Paracas National Reserve

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Then after Paracas, it’s time to swap one desert for another with a visit to the famous oasis at Huacachina.

You’ll get another chance to fly across the giant dunes in sand buggies as well as sandboard down to the tallest of them, watch the epic sunset, and party the night away in the crazy Wild Rover backpacker hostel.

For more information on this unique place:

• Huacachina Backpacker Guide & 2-Day Itinerary

Wild Rover in Huacachina is also one of our favourite hostels in South America . For the full list of backpacker hostels, follow the link below:

• The Best Party Hostels In South America

Day 14-16 - Arequipa

Arequipa is an amazing city for backpackers, but the real wonder here is a visit to Colca Canyon – the second deepest canyon in the world.

Unfortunately, you won’t have enough time to trek down into it on this itinerary but you can visit for the day:

• 5 Ways To Visit Colca Canyon From Arequipa

Arequipa is also full of great backpacker hostels, restaurants, and bars to enjoy. Our favourite thing to do there is to find a rooftop bar and watch as the sun sets on all volcanoes surrounding the city.

Check out our itinerary below if you want to stay a bit longer: 

• 3-Day vs 4-Day Arequipa Itinerary

Day 17-21 – Cusco & Machu Picchu

The ancient capital of the Inca Empire , known for a wealth of archaeological remains and beautiful Spanish colonial-era architecture, is now one of the most popular backpacker hubs in all of South America.

Spend your first day here before preparing to travel to Machu Picchu.

There’s so much to do in Cusco though, so you may wish to extend this part of the itinerary and cut off days from somewhere else. I would recommend visiting Rainbow Mountain in Cusco if you can.

For more information on backpacker hostels and things to do in Cusco, head to the guides below:

• The 10 Best Backpacker Hostels In Cusco
• The Best Things To Do In Cusco as a Backpacker

Machu Picchu is the ultimate highlight of many people’s trips to South America. Visiting the marvellous citadel of the Incas, hidden amongst misty valleys, and set high above the clouds, truly feels like you are walking back through time.

The best way to do this is to take the train to Aguas Calientes on the morning of Day 18. Aguas Calientes is the town closest to Machu Picchu and the hub for travellers before they start their trek up to the mountain.

The train is a bit more expensive than the bus, but the journey is packed full of beautiful sights along the way as the train goes through the Sacred Valley.

For more information on how to book the train and prices:

• How To Take The Train To Machu Picchu

If you want to save money and take the bus, then we’ve outlined that here as well, but it does take a lot longer (8 hours compared to three):

• The 3 Best Ways To Get To Machu Picchu (Bus, Train or Trek)

On your final day, you will return to Cusco from Aguas Calientes and your three weeks in South America are over. If you would prefer longer in Cusco (as it’s one of the best cities in all of South America) we recommend cutting out Arequipa and maybe just visiting Huacachina for a night. This will give you three extra days.

If you have three weeks in South America and prefer to visit just a single country , then check out these alternative itineraries which may work better for you:

• Ecuador Three-Week Backpacking Itinerary
• Peru Three-Week Backpacking Itinerary

Or if you prefer the Galapagos Islands over the mainland then check out this 10-day planned itinerary that will get you to both:

• Galapagos Islands & Machu Picchu 10-Day Itinerary

#2 Three Week South America Itinerary: Peru & Bolivia

• Pros: All over land so no expensive flights
• Cons: Some long bus journeys

Here is the complete three-week south America itinerary that includes Peru, Machu Picchu, and Bolivia:

• Day 1 – Lima
• Day 2-3 – Paracas
• Day 4-5 – Huacachina
• Day 6-8 – Arequipa
• Day 9-12 – Cusco & Machu Picchu
• Day 13-14 – Copacabana
• Day 15-17 – La Paz
• Day 18-21 – Uyuni & the Salt Flats

Day 1-12 - Lima to Cusco/Machu Picchu

Follow the same itinerary as laid out above with a couple of changes.

You can take an extra day in Arequipa which will allow you to visit Colca Canyon . All trips to Colca Canyon start from Arequipa and take 2 days in total.

Trekking down into the second deepest canyon in the world is an experience like no other. You’ll spend most of your time picking your jaw up off the floor as you walk around in awe of the canyon’s vastness.

For more information on the guided trek:

• Colca Canyon: Guided Trek Vs Without a Guide

Also, if you prefer, you can spend longer in Cusco as it’s one of the best cities in South America. We recommend, either skipping over Paracas/Huacachina or just visiting each for a day if you wish to do this.

For more Cusco guides:

• The Best Restaurants In Cusco
• The Backpackers Guide To Nightlife in Cusco

After Cusco, you can then get the bus to Bolivia and straight to Copacabana which takes around 8 hours.

Day 13-14 – Copacabana

Lake Titicaca is the highest navigable lake in the world at 3,810 metres above sea level.

Half of it sits in Peru, the other half in Bolivia. The town of Copacabana on the Bolivian side is a small but pretty place filled with local markets and artisan restaurants, but it’s the lake itself that is the must-see.

Fun activities include walking up to the summit of Cerro Calvario to get beautiful views of the lake and taking a boat tour to Isla del Sol , the largest island on the lake.

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I love the Osprey Farpoint 50-70L.

It’s reasonably priced and perfect for first timers visiting South America.

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Day 15-17 – La Paz

Once you reach La Paz you have an endless list of things to choose from such as biking down Death Road, trekking in the Valley of the Moon, or climbing Huayna Potosi.

3 days is a good amount of time to cover it all. We recommend riding down Death Road one day and then using the others to explore in and outside of the city.

Follow our La Paz guides to help you plan:

• Is Death Road Worth It?
• The 13 Best Things To Do In La Paz As A Backpacker

Day 18-21 – Uyuni & La Paz

You can either fly or overnight bus down to Uyuni. Once you arrive in Uyuni, it’s time to end this epic three-week South America trip with probably one of the best tours on the whole continent.

The 3-day Salar De Uyuni tour will take you from one unique landscape to the next, starting with the white expanse of the salt flat on day 1, to the high-altitude desert of the Andes on the next.

Your mind will be blown by all the incredible scenery and you will leave on a high. The perfect way to end an incredible 3 weeks in South America!

Our Uyuni guides have all the information you need:

• The Ultimate Uyuni Salt Flats Guide
• When To Visit Uyuni For The Mirror Effect

Or if you prefer to stick to one country like Bolivia and visit the Amazon instead of more places in Peru, then check out our Bolivia itinerary to see how it can work:

• Bolivia Three-Week Backpacking Itinerary

Preparing for your first trip to South America? 

Here are 22 FAQ’s to help you prepare for the trip of a lifetime: 

• How To Prepare For A Trip To South America: 31 FAQs Answered

How do you prepare for a trip to South America? Here are 31 commonly asked questions, answered an expert (me) so you can have the trip of a lifetime!

#3 Three Week South America Itinerary: Bolivia & Chile

• Pros: Lots of nature, fewer places visited so you get longer in each town
• Cons: Costs more compared to the other itineraries as Chile is more expensive and there are more flights included

Here’s the complete three-week South America itinerary that includes Bolivia & Chile:

• Day 1-2 – La Paz
• Day 3-6 – Amazon
• Day 7 – La Paz
• Day 8-11 – Uyuni & Salt Flat Tour
• Day 12-14 – Atacama
• Day 15-16 – Santiago

Day 17-20 – Pucon

• Day 21 – Santiago

Day 1-2 - La Paz

La Paz is the thriving capital of Bolivia and your first stop on this three-week South America itinerary.

For your day in the city, book onto a Red Cap walking tour to explore the sprawl that is La Paz, ride the cable cars around to some incredible viewpoints and then spend the evening enjoying the lively bar and club scene.

You also have one full day of adrenaline-fuelled fun on the Death Road tour . Your heart will be in your mouth as you bike down one of the most dangerous roads in the world.

Our 3 day La Paz itinerary can be found in full here for more information:

• La Paz 3-Day Itinerary
• The 10 Best Backpacker Hostels In La Paz, Bolivia

Day 3-6 - The Amazon

Visiting the Amazon in Bolivia is much cheaper and easier compared to other countries in South America. Most Amazon tours are 3 days and two nights.

The Pampas tour is the most popular among backpackers. On the tour, your days will be spent on a longboat winding through the tributaries of the Amazon searching for caimans, anacondas, and exotic birds. You can even go swimming with pink river dolphins!

This is one of the best tours in South America and a fraction of the price it would cost in countries like Brazil or Colombia.

Our complete guide to getting to Rurrenabaque and finding and booking an amazon tour can be found here:

• How To Visit The Amazon In Bolivia

Day 7 - La Paz

If you prefer to break your journeys up, then take an extra day in La Paz here.

The flight back from the Amazon is only 20 minutes so if you prefer to save the day then you can either hop on another flight down to Uyuni or take the overnight bus which takes 8-9 hours.

As this is a three-week itinerary, we recommend either enjoying the extra day in La Paz or flying; long bus journeys are cutting into the limited time you have.

Day 8-11 – Uyuni and the Salt Flats Tour

Your next stop is the town of Uyuni, most famous for the 

The three-day/two-night tour will take you exploring one of the most surreal landscapes in the world. This is one of the best tours in the whole of South America and shouldn’t be missed.

Day 1 is spent on the actual salt flat taking the all-important perspective and reflection photos before spending a night in the famous salt hotel. Day 2 takes you out across the high-altitude desert to see even wilder landscapes such as volcanoes, geysers, and beautiful high-altitude lakes full of flamingos.

The salt flats tour then drops you off at the Chilean border where you can take a bus to the town of San Pedro De Atacama. Nice and easy!

For more on the Uyuni Salt Flat Tour including the best companies to book with, head to the post below:

• Is The Salt Flats Tour Worth It? 6 Reasons Why You Can’t Miss It
• Uyuni Salt Flats Packing List

Day 12-14 - Atacama Desert

Your mind may have just been blown with volcanoes, high-altitude lagoons, and surreal landscapes on the salt flats tour, but it doesn’t stop there.

Just across the border, the Atacama Desert still has some incredible landscapes worth checking out.

Why not rent a car and explore it yourself this time? You can head to the ‘Valle de la Luna’ to see strange rock formations eroded over millions of years or float in the tranquil salt lagoons of the desert surrounded by mountains and volcanoes.

Check out our Atacama Desert itinerary for more information on the best places to visit:

• An Adventure-Filled Atacama Desert 4-Day Itinerary

Day 14-16 - Santiago

Santiago is a long drive from Atacama so best to take a short 1-hour flight. Once in the capital, you can start with the walking tour to get your bearings and then visit one of the several museums Santiago has to offer.

For any extra days you wish to stay, you can take day trips outside of the city to Valparaiso , go trekking in the mountains or head to one of the many vineyards to try the best of Chilean wine.

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Pucón is the adventure capital of Chile, and there are so many great activities on offer in this city including horse riding, kayaking, volcano trekking and much more.

You won’t be disappointed ending an epic three-weeks in South America here.

One of the best hostels in the country is here – Chili Kiwi Hostel which won HostelWorld’s Best Hostel in Latin America in both 2017 and 2018.

This hostel is in an unbeatable location on the shore of Villarrica lake, directly opposite the majestic Villarrica Volcano and only a short walk from downtown Pucón. The hostel has a nice garden with swings, hammocks, and treehouses where you can catch sunsets over the lake and volcano.

For more on our favourite hostels in South America, check out the post below:

• The 14 Best Backpacker Hostels In South America

Day 21 - Santiago

Fly back to Santiago to take your flight home. If this itinerary contains too many flights and long journeys for you then we have some other options.

From Santiago, you can take a bus across the border to Argentina into wine country. Keep reading as it’s the next three-week South America itinerary on this list.

Want to see three countries instead of two? Extend your trip to a month and you will have more than enough time. See the post below for how to do it:

• The Ideal 1-Month Backpacking Itinerary For Peru, Bolivia & Chile

#4 Three Week South America Itinerary: Chile & Argentina

• Pros: All over land so no expensive flights, off the beaten track
• Cons: Second part of the route is better with a car which can be expensive

Here is the complete three-week South America itinerary that includes Chile & Argentina:

• Day 1 – Santiago
• Day 2-3 – Valparaiso
• Day 4 – Santiago
• Day 5-8 – Mendoza
• Day 9-11 – Cafayate
• Day 12 – Cachi
• Day 13 –15 – Salta
• Day 16 – Humahuaca
• Day 17 – Tilcara / Purmamarca
• Day 18-21 – Salta / Buenos Aires

Day 1-3 – Santiago / Valparaiso

Santiago is a beautiful place and there will be some great restaurants in the city for tasting wines, or you could head outside of the city to the Maipo valley to start your wine tasting journey.

With snow-covered Andean peaks forming the visual backdrop, the Maipo Valley ranks as one of Chile’s most picturesque spots. It’s also home to some of the country’s top wines. 

Another great city to check out is Valparaiso on the coast known as the “Pacific Jewel”. 45km away is the Casablanca valley, another great place full of bodegas and vineyards.

Do you want to do more than three weeks? To see how you can fit Chile into a longer South America itinerary, check out the post below that summarises six of the best itineraries I’ve put together:

• How Many Days Do You Need In South America – 6 Great Itineraries That Work For Every Traveller

Day 5-8 - Mendoza

It’s a short hop across the border from Santiago to reach Mendoza , Argentina’s best wine-producing region. Whilst here, one of the best things to do is head out to the vineyards, rent a bike, and hit up all the different bodegas on a self-guided tour.

You can pay a small amount for a tasting at each bodega, and you will end the day rather tipsy. Lots of backpackers do this and everyone else biking around ends up back at Maipu Bikes for a final round of drinks.

Other activities include trekking around Cerro Aconcagua the highest peak in the Western Hemisphere or escaping to Lake Potrerillos – a 7-mile- (12-kilometer-) long lake, fed by the Mendoza River. You can take a relaxing stroll around the lake’s edge for breath-taking views of the rugged landscape or for adventure travellers, go rafting or river boarding down the rapids of the Mendoza River.

Check out our North Argentina backpacking itinerary for more great ideas on some extra stops you can add into this part of the itinerary:

• North Argentina Backpacking Itinerary & Route

Day 9-11 - Cafayate

Cafayate is a must for wine lovers and follows on perfectly from a stay in Mendoza.

The town is the wine-producing region of the northwest of Argentina and is one of the world’s highest suitable locations for growing grapes. It’s second only to Mendoza as one of the best wine-producing regions in the country.

Check out our full guide to the town including the best bodegas and vineyards to visit here:

• Cafayate Best Things To Do & Town Guide

Day 12 - Cachi

Cachi is a small wine town in between Cafayate and Salta. It’s the perfect one night stop to break up the journey, enjoy more beautiful views of the valley and try some more wine.

Day 13-15 - Salta

Salta is the biggest city in the northwest of Argentina. It’s full of interesting sights such as the Museum of High-Altitude Archaeology (MAAM) which contains a perfectly preserved mummified corpse of an Andean child, thought to be sacrificed by her tribe hundreds of ago.

Make sure you rent a car here as the next part of the journey is heading right into the north of the country to check out three small towns that are off the beaten tourist track.

For everything you need to know about Salta:

• The 13 Best Things To Do In Salta As A Backpacker

Day 16-18 – Humahuaca, Tilcara and Purmamarca

Humahuaca is the first of three small towns along Route 9 which runs through the beautiful northern countryside all the way down to the city of Salta.

Here you can find Argentina’s very own Rainbow Mountain (and depending on who you ask, better than the more famous one in Peru). Everything else you need to know about Humahuaca from our favourite hostels to the best restaurants is here in our guide to the town:

• The Best Things To Do In Humahuaca
• How To Visit El Hornocal, Argentina’s Rainbow Mountain

Tilcara is the second town you come to along Route 9. It has the same laidback vibe of Humahuaca and is filled with artisan cafes, shops, and restaurants.

In the summer, it gets livelier with Argentinian tourists escaping the big cities and filling up the peñas (communal gatherings with traditional music from the region) and bars.

For more information on Tilcara:

• Tilcara Town Guide & 10 Best Things To Do

Spend one night here before driving back to Salta to drop off the car. On the way back if you want to stop off at a few places you can.

Another short journey south is the third town on Route 9 which includes Argentina’s second Rainbow Mountain – the Hill of 7 Colours.

Whilst it doesn’t sound as impressive as the 14 Coloured Mountain, the hill is just as colourful and impressive, and you don’t need to take a tour to see this one. You can see it from anywhere in town, but the best way is to walk along the Paseo de los Colorados, a 1.5 mile (3 km) easy trail for great views of this multi-coloured hill.

Purmamarca is also a good base for a trip to Salinas Grandes – Argentina’s spectacular salt flat.

27-30 - Buenos Aires

End an incredible three weeks in South America in one of its greatest capitals – Buenos Aires.

Known as the “Paris of South America” , Buenos Aires boasts renowned architecture, world-class cuisine, and fantastic nightlife. You’ll be ending the trip on a high!

For some alternative, one-month long itineraries in this region, check out the post below:

• 1 Month Chile, Bolivia, and Argentina Itinerary

Popular South America Itineraries

If you have more than two-weeks to spare then why not check out our other South America itineraries ranging from three weeks to three months:

• 5 Expertly Curated Three-Week South America Itineraries
• The Comprehensive Six-Week South America Backpacking Itinerary
• 4 Epic 1-Month South America Backpacking Itineraries
• The Perfect 2-Month South America Itinerary For Budget Backpackers
• The Ideal 3-Month South America Backpacking Itinerary
• The Perfect 1-Month Peru and Bolivia Itinerary
• The 8 Best Digital Nomad Cities In South America
• 4 Perfectly Planned 10-Day Itineraries For South America 
• 4 Fast-Paced One Week Backpacking Itineraries For South America
• A Flashpacker Five-Week South America Itinerary
• From North to South: The Complete 10-Week South America Itinerary
• Colombia, Ecuador & Peru Itinerary: From Two Weeks To Two Months
• Suitcase Or Backpack? Which Is Best For South America?
• Author Profile
• Posts by the Author
• The 22 All-Round Best Backpacker Hostels In South America [2024]
• The 18 Best Party Hostels In South America
• The 10 Wildest Party Beaches In South America
• How Many Days In Santa Marta? 3 Great Itinerary Options
• Is Santa Marta Worth Visiting? 12 Great Reasons to Go

Joe Bayfield

Hi I'm Joe Bayfield, Bayf for short. I love South America and want people to visit this incredible continent. I’ve travelled through Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, Bolivia, Chile and Argentina and also lived in Lima, Medellin and Buenos Aires. I write detailed South America itineraries to help you plan your next adventure!

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3 Week South America Tours & Trips

Filter for departure dates and price to find the right 3 week South America tour with TourRadar. Choose from 327 trips with 1,608 customer reviews, that range from 15 up to 21 days.

250+ South America 3 week tour packages with 1,608 reviews

• Christmas & New Year

21 Days Adventure and Nature Trip in Ecuador & Peru

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Perú, Bolivia & Chile - 21 days

Absolute Peru

In general this was an amazing trip that took us to many different places in the southern part part of Peru, from coastal area to the Andes mountains and the Amazon jungle. This tour gives a good understanding of both rural and modern lifestyle, as well as cultural and historical insight. Our tourleader (Manuel) did a great job. Accommodation was good as well as meals. (we paid most of them ourselves) Overnight busrides should be avoided if possible as most people don't sleep well on a bus ! Tipping to many drivers and local guides adds a big amount to the cost of the trip. We suggest that G Adventures pay a decent salary to their employees and partners instead of constantly asking for tips, which at times can be quite annoying. Or simply include tipping in the tour price.

• Hiking & Trekking

Full Argentina Adventure – Route 40 (20 Nights)

Female traveling alone from Salta>Ushuaia. All but 2 hostels (Ushuaia, Mendoza) were excellent, all the buses were incredibly comfortable (considering all night and long), and all the day tours were wonderful. I utterly enjoyed the trip. The help that I received from the tour company was great and they were very accommodating. I can only recommend this tour.

Highlights of South America - 21 days

• In-depth Cultural

Peru Essentials

That was an impressive tour with a lot of new experiences. Overall, I had a great time, even though there are surely ways to improve the schedule a little (and the breakfast^^)

Best of Peru, Argentina & Brazil (15 destinations)

Argentina for True Explorers

We have just returned from 2 weeks in Patagonia (both Chile and Argentina organised by Say Hueque travel. I cannot recommend this company highly enough, everything from the flights, buses, accommodation, restaurants recommend was excellent. I would give them 20/10 for their professionalism, from our very first e mail enquiry until we arrived back in South Africa. Say Hueque you are possibly the best tour operator in the world

• Local Living

Southern Divide

My trip through Peru, Bolivia, Chile, and Argentina with G Adventures was absolutely amazing. Eduardo Tello was the most amazing guide we could've had, we went above and beyond as a guide and made a special effort to make a true friendship with everyone on the tour. Even with a couple of difficult people on the tour he always stayed professional and the trio just so amazing. This was the first time leaving my home country and Eddy just made everything so easy, we didnt even have to think. The tour was so good, saw all the big sights plus even more I hadn't even thought of. Will definitely recommend G Adventures to everyone.

• Coach / Bus

The Big South American Roundtrip

• Wildlife & Nature Photography
• Ocean Cruise

The Great Journey

21 Days Ecuador 360

Rio de Janeiro to Santiago Travel Pass

• 10% deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Mysteries of the Inca Empire with Peru's Amazon & Galapagos Cruise

La Paz to Santiago via Uyuni (21 Days/ 20 Nights)

What people love about 3 week south america tours.

great guide, great sites to visit topped with Inka trail

Female traveling alone from Salta>Ushuaia. All but 2 hostels (Ushuaia, Mendoza) were excellent, all the buses were incredibly comfortable (considering all night and long), and all the day tours were wonderful. I utterly enjoyed the trip. The help that I received from the tour company was great and they were very accommodating. I can only recommend this tour.

Fantastic tour! Perfect mix of activities and down time. All must do’s included with great optionales. Very well organised by G Adventures with the best tour guide! Absolutely recommend.

• 10 Best South America Backpacking Tours & Trips 2024/2025
• 10 Best Adventure Trips for Couples 2024/2025
• 10 Best South America Honeymoon Packages & Tours 2024/2025
• 10 Best South America Travel Specialists (with Reviews)

• Travel Planning Guide

The Best 3-Week (21-Day) Tours in Central America

Are you craving an unforgettable 3-week trip to Central America that strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and adventure? Look no further than this carefully curated selection of 21-day guided tours that are perfect for a three week getaway. We've analyzed these tours based on key criteria such as price, comfort, service, guest ratings, and activities in order to find the absolute best three week tours in Central America for your next trip. Whether you're yearning for thrilling excursions, mouthwatering cuisine, or simply a chance to unwind, these tours offer the perfect amount of time to immerse yourself into the local culture and activites. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary journey that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

• Contrasts of Mexico + Yucatan Peninsula Extension 21 Days, $5060.00
• Contrasts of Mexico + Yucatan Peninsula Extension (Day Of The Dead) 21 Days, $6110.00
• Contrasts of Mexico + Yucatan Peninsula Extension (Festival Premium) 21 Days, $6890.00

Which 21-day tour options are available in Central America?

Here are the important factors:

• 3 trip options analyzed
• $287 average price per day (USD)
• 4 of 5 average rating
• 16 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of tours lasting 3 weeks? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 16 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 3 tours lasting 3 weeks, you can rest assured that Central America has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 3 Best 3-Week Tours in Central America

Contrasts of mexico + yucatan peninsula extension.

• Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for tours lasting 3 weeks.

This exceptional trip offering by Explore! has received a 4 out of 5 rating. On this 21-day journey, visiting Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, you can unwind while also making new memories. Experience a trip that takes you to 23 remarkable destinations, including Tehuantepec, Canon del Sumidero, San Cristobel de Las Casas, and Agua Azul Waterfalls. Mexico City will mark the start of your journey, while Merida will serve as its final destination. With a group size of 18 people, it's suitable for travelers from 16 to 85 years old. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $241 per day.

• Coach / Bus
• In-depth Cultural

Contrasts of Mexico + Yucatan Peninsula Extension (Day Of The Dead)

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 4 out of 5 rating, visiting Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize. Explore 26 incredible locations on this trip, including Monte Alban, San Pablo Villa de Mitla, Tehuantepec, and Chiapa de Corzo. Mexico City marks the starting point, while Merida stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. Spanning across 21 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 14 participants, and it's great for travelers from 16 to 85 years old. Brought to you by the renowned Explore! , this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $291 per day - an unbeatable value.

Contrasts of Mexico + Yucatan Peninsula Extension (Festival Premium)

This 21-day journey, visiting Mexico, Guatemala, and Belize, is ideal for travelers from 16 to 85 years old. And priced at only $328 per day, it's a great value, too. Discover a journey that spans 23 destinations, with notable stops in San Cristobel de Las Casas, Agua Azul Waterfalls, Palenque, and Frontera Corozal. Beginning in beautiful Mexico City, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Merida. It's offered by Explore! , a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Central America , The Best Wildlife Tours to Central America , The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Central America , The Best Historical Tours in Central America , The Best 10-Day Tours in Central America , The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Central America , The Best 3-Day Tours in Central America , The Best 2-Week Tours in Central America , The Best Bicycle Tours in Central America , Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Central America , The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Central America , The Best Coach Bus Tours in Central America , The Best Adventure Tours to Central America , The Best Eco Tours in Central America , The Best Thrill-Seeking Tours in Central America , The Best Sightseeing Tours in Central America , The Best Cultural Tours in Central America , The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Central America , The Best Self Drive Tours in Central America , The Best Safaris in Central America , The Best Jungle Trekking Tours in Central America , The Best Tours Under $1000 in Central America , The Best Luxury Tours to Central America , The Best Budget Tours to Central America , The Best Tours for Seniors to Central America , or The Best G Adventures Tours to Central America for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

How much do 21-day tours to Central America cost?

After analyzing 3 tours lasting 3 weeks in Central America, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $287 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for tours lasting 3 weeks with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Central America .

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2024 RBC Heritage live stream, TV schedule, how to watch online, channel, tee times, radio, golf coverage

There was no rest for the weary with a signature event on tap one week after the masters.

Players have made the short trip from Augusta, Georgia, to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, for the 2024 RBC Heritage. In total, 69 golfers teed it up on Harbour Town Golf Links as yet another signature event on the PGA Tour's playing calendar rolls on.

Unlike the Genesis Invitational or Arnold Palmer Invitational, the RBC Heritage does not feature a 36-hole cut, meaning the entirety of the field will be around for the weekend. That is music to the ears to those who missed out on the weekend action at the Masters, including the likes of Jordan Spieth, Justin Thomas, Wyndham Clark and Brian Harman.

Spieth, the 2022 champion, looks to kickstart his season after a disappointing showing at Augusta National. He is no stranger to bouncing back at the RBC Heritage, following a missed cut at the year's first major championship with a win a week later in Hilton Head. He's not in contention to win this tournament, but he's certainly playing better than he did last week.

This tournament, like the rest on the PGA Tour these days, goes through Scottie Scheffler. The world No. 1 aims to collect his fourth trophy in his last five tournaments, and he holds the 54-hole lead entering the final day of play. Fresh off slipping on his second green jacket, Scheffler has widened the gap between him and the rest of the world and shows no signs of slowing down. Collin Morikawa and Ludvig Åberg -- just as they did at the Masters -- are breathing down Scheffler's neck on Sunday.

All times Eastern; streaming start times approximated   

Round 4 - Sunday

Round starts:  7:15 a.m.

PGA Tour Live:  7:15 a.m. -  6 p.m. --  PGA Tour Live

Early TV coverage:  1-3 p.m. on Golf Channel,  fubo  (Try for free) Live streaming:  1-3 p.m. on Peacock

Live TV coverage:  3-6 p.m. on CBS Live simulcast:  3-6 p.m. on  CBSSports.com  and the  CBS Sports App

Radio:  1-6 p.m. --  PGA Tour Radio  

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RBC Heritage

Harbour Town Golf Links

Hilton Head Island, South Carolina • USA

Apr 18 - 21, 2024

The Kid Laroi Is Bringing ‘The First Time' Tour to North America

The Kid Laroi's The First Time tour is heading to North America. On Monday, the musician announced a slate of tour dates scheduled for May, June, and July 2024 in support of his debut album, The First Time , released in November 2023.

Following the completion of the tour's previously announced European leg in April, Laroi will head stateside with an opening performance in Vancouver on May 18. The rapper and singer will make stops in Seattle, San Diego, Los Angeles, Denver, Houston, Atlanta, Miami, Boston, New York, Toronto, Cincinnati, Detroit, and more. The tour will wrap with a closing show in Omaha on July 10.

Glaive and Chase Shakur will provide support across the North American dates. General sale for The First Time tour will begin on Friday, March 29 at 10 a.m. local time via Live Nation. Pre-sales will run throughout the week beginning Tuesday, March 26, at 10 a.m. local time.

Laroi chronicled the creation of The First Time , as well as some time he spent on the road, in the recently released Prime Video documentary Kids Are Growing Up: A Story About a Kid Named Laroi . The film explored the 20-year-old's experience with lingering grief, adjusting to fame, and finding support and mentorship in the music industry.

"Money, fame, dreams coming true - that doesn't resolve problems. It doesn't stop them from happening. If anything, they just come on a bigger scale," he explains in the film. "But I do tell myself every day, ‘Be grateful. Look at what you've got. Be Happy.'"

The Kid Laroi The First Time Tour North American Dates: May 18 – Vancouver, BC @ UBC – Doug Mitchell Thunderbird Sports Centre

May 22 – Seattle, WA @ Showbox SoDo

May 25 – Napa, CA @ Bottlerock Festival

May 26 – San Diego, CA @ SOMA

May 28 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Torch at LA Coliseum

May 29 – Phoenix, AZ @ Arizona Financial Theatre

May 31 – Denver, CO @ Fillmore Auditorium

June 02 – Irving, TX @ The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory

June 03 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Criterion

June 04 – Houston, TX @ 713 Music Hall

June 07 – Atlanta, GA @ Coca-Cola Roxy

June 09 – Tampa, FL @ Yuengling Center

June 11 – Miami, FL @ The Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater

June 13 – Charlotte, NC @ Skyla Credit Union Amphitheatre

June 15 – Washington, DC @ The Anthem

June 16 – Boston, MA @ MGM Music Hall at Fenway

June 17 – New York, NY @ Radio City Music Hall

June 20 – Philadelphia, PA @ The Met Presented by Highmark

June 22 – Laval, QC @ Place Bell

June 23 – Toronto, ON @ HISTORY

June 25 – Chicago, IL @ Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom

June 26 – Nashville, TN @ Nashville Municipal Auditorium

June 28 – Cincinnati, OH @ The Andrew J Brady Music Center

July 01 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Stage AE

July 02 – Indianapolis, IN @ Everwise Amphitheater at White River State Park

July 03 – Detroit, MI @ The Fillmore Detroit

July 05 – Minneapolis, MN @ Armory

July 06 – Milwaukee, WI @ Eagles Ballroom

July 07 – Waukee, IA @ Vibrant Music Hall

July 09 – St. Louis, MO @ The Factory

July 10 – Omaha, NE @ Steelhouse Omaha

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