Compare LA to Vegas: Grand National Parks by Intrepid Travel vs Highlights of Route 66 by Cosmos
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 10 days | 16 days |
| Price From | $ 3,906 | $ 3,069 |
| Price Per Day | $ 391 | $ 192 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
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| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
From the City of Angels to Sin City – this 10-day road trip takes you through some of the best national parks in the United States. Explore unique vegetation and landscapes in Joshua Tree National Park, gaze in awe at the immense Grand Canyon, sit by a Navajo campfire in Monument Valley and walk amid the hoodoos of Bryce Canyon and Zion National Park. Finish this desert adventure with a day and night in Vegas, where you can celebrate a path well-travelled. This trip takes you deep into the Utah and Arizona deserts for incredibly diverse scenery, easy-to-moderate hiking trails, expansive views and Indigenous history, giving you lots of free time to explore and many included activities to gain local insights into famed areas around the country. |
Follow legendary Route 66 and see how Americans traveled from the 1920s through the 1960s. This historic route begins in Chicago, travels through eight states, and ends in Los Angeles. On this trip down memory lane, you’ll get the opportunity to travel to the major cities along Route 66, visit many of the Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of the fun. Visit Pontiac’s Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum, which features memorabilia from the heyday of Route 66. In Oklahoma, at the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, antique cars and historic documents help you feel what it was like to travel Route 66. In New Mexico, visit Russell’s Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia. Overnight in Williams Arizona—listed in the National Register for Historic Places and where you’ll see neon signs of the intact circa 1940s “Motel Row.” Before arriving at the end of Route 66 in Santa Monica, California, visit the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, which displays memories in such settings as a 50’s diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford. This tour also deviates from Route 66, so you can see breathtaking scenery at the Grand Canyon and experience the excitement of Las Vegas. In Springfield, visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, and in St. Louis, witness amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River from the top of the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. These are just some of the many highlights of this Route 66 tour designed for value-minded travelers. Sit back, relax, and let Cosmos handle the driving and details while you enjoy! |
Day 1 Los Angeles
Welcome to Los Angeles, California! Spend an afternoon exploring the home of movie stars – stroll Santa Monica Pier, Venice Beach or Rodeo Drive for a bit of people-watching or amp up the culture with a trip to the Getty Centre or a tour of the Beverly Hills mansions. You’re free to explore LA until 6 pm when your group will come together for a welcome meeting at your hotel in Venice. Jump on a leader-led walking tour along the quirky and beautiful Venice canals, and then consider an optional group dinner at one of the many famous restaurants to get to know each other.
Day 2 Joshua Tree National Park / Twentynine Palms
Depart LA after breakfast and take the scenic drive to Palm Springs, famous for its mid-century modern architecture and desert resorts. Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tram to the top of Mt. Jacinto for a refreshingly cool picnic lunch with expansive views over Chino Canyon and Palm Springs. In the afternoon continue to Twentynine Palms to check in to your hotel and relax for a bit. Then rejoin your leader for an exploration of Joshua Tree National Park in the late afternoon. Sitting between the Mojave and Colorado Deserts, Joshua Tree is home to striking rock formations, many species of cacti and varied desert wildlife such as coyotes, lizards and bighorn sheep. This evening is free to relax – maybe sit down for dinner with your group and prepare for the days of exploration ahead.
Day 3 Route 66 / Grand Canyon National Park
This morning, enjoy breakfast and then head on a Route 66 road trip. You’ll spend some time driving the famous Route 66 from California through Nevada and into Arizona, stopping by the eccentric community of Seligman for lunch. There’s even a historic retro diner where you can get an authentic taste of Americana culture and history. Arrive at Grand Canyon National Park in the afternoon, check in to your hotel and then head out for a sunset walk along the rim of the canyon. This perspective offers epic views of the massive network of gorges, rivers and cliffs throughout the park.
Day 4 Grand Canyon National Park
Today, a naturalist guide from the Grand Canyon Conservancy will join your group for a guided tour and hike (approximately 3 hours) on a section of the Bright Angel Trail. Your guide will teach the group about the park’s history, geology and the Indigenous connections – of both past and present – to the land. Expect to see sweeping views, ancient rocks, tell-tale fossils, diverse plant life and even some curious critters along the way. This afternoon is as clear as an Arizona sky. Explore at your own pace and remember to always have a steady water supply and high-energy snacks on hand. Your group leader can brief you on optional activities available
Day 5 Monument Valley / Kayenta
This morning is a perfect chance to get up early and catch the sunrise. Depart Grand Canyon via the eastern entrance, stopping at the Desert View Watchtower. When you reach the town of Cameron, visit the Navajo trading post and take some free time for lunch before continuing to Monument Valley tribal park. Here, you’ll meet a Navajo guide for a sunset jeep tour through the valley – a journey into the spectacular backcountry, where you can explore the natural and historic landmarks, sprawling rock arches and bridges and petroglyph rock art. Witness a vibrant cultural demonstration and then join the locals for a dinner of Navajo tacos around the campfire. Settle in for an evening full of Native American dancing, flute playing, drumming, chanting and storytelling. Afterward, continue to the nearby town of Kayenta and check in to your hotel.
Day 6 Antelope Canyon / Bryce Canyon
Get ready for another day full of incredible desert scenery. After breakfast, you’ll hit the road again, passing through the little city of Page, set on the shores of Lake Powell. You’ll join a Navajo guide as you descend into mystical Lower Antelope Canyon via series of stairways. The towering red walls curve and twist above, making for a great photo opportunity. Learn some local history and fascinating stories about the canyon itself, then continue your journey. Stop for a short hike to view Horseshoe Bend, named for the loop of water that rims the enormous sandstone structure. Enjoy a picnic lunch with your group before continuing into Utah. Drive along scenic roads and onto your destination – Bryce Canyon National Park. Spend the night near the park and rest up for an early start tomorrow.
Day 7 Bryce Canyon National Park / Zion National Park
You’ll wake up early today to catch the best light for your journey into Bryce Canyon National Park, famous for its orange hoodoos – uniquely shaped rock spires rising out of the desert, formed by millions of years of erosion. Drive the park road, stopping at some scenic overlooks, and arrive at a gorgeous spot where your leader will take the group on a walk to the hoodoos. Recharge with some free time for lunch, then continue to Zion National Park, where you'll explore Zion Canyon. If the group is up for it, take a hike at sunset and watch the nightly display of colour to end a beautiful day. Spend the night nearby in Springdale.
Day 8 Zion National Park
After breakfast, visit Zion National Park with your leader. Based on the group's interests and abilities, you might hike the Emerald Pools or Watchman trail. There may also be an option to take on a challenge like The Narrows, which is probably the most popular hike in the park and one of the best slot canyon hikes on Earth! Trek through a gorge surrounded by cliff faces 300 metres high and cool off in a river along the way. This evening is yours to rest, relax and recharge.
Day 9 Las Vegas
You’ll leave Zion National Park today and hit the road again for the last time. Check out Snow Canyon State Park along the way, where many American movies have been filmed, and then continue to Las Vegas, Nevada. Once a western outpost in the desert, Las Vegas is now a gambling and entertainment metropolis. It’s a city of larger-than-life characters, but beyond the glitz and glamour, Vegas is home to diverse urban neighbourhoods and a thriving arts scene. Your leader will take you through local favourites – from Fremont Street to the group’s farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 10 Las Vegas
There are no activities planned today and you’re free to check out and depart at any time. If you want to stay in Las Vegas longer, feel free to speak to your booking agent.
Day 1: CHICAGO
Welcome to Chicago, the start of Route 66! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer questions.
Day 2: CHICAGO
Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is home to one of America’s tallest buildings, legends such as Al Capone and his notorious gang, and countless jazz and blues clubs. Get to know this exciting city on a morning sightseeing tour that includes seeing the sign marking the start of historic Route 66. This afternoon is at leisure. Ride the elevator to the top of the Willis Tower, formally known as the Sears Tower, explore The Magnificent Mile, or stroll along Navy Pier. (CBreakfast)
Day 3: CHICAGO–PONTIAC–SPRINGFIELD
This morning, immerse yourself in Route 66 memorabilia. Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, housed in a historic fire station. See the large maps that will sketch out your Route 66 adventure for the coming days and enjoy the nostalgic photos and postcards from the “Mother Road’s” heyday. On to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, where we will visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. (CBreakfast)
Day 4: SPRINGFIELD–ST. LOUIS
Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes the towering Gateway Arch National Park. Ascend to the top of the 630-foot-tall arch for a panoramic view of the city and river. Then drive along an original stretch of Route 66 and get the chance to savor some of Ted Drewes Frozen Custard.
Day 5: ST. LOUIS–JOPLIN
Today, we travel through the Missouri countryside, exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a town where infamous robbers Bonnie and Clyde once sought refuge. (Breakfast)
Day 6: JOPLIN–TULSA–OKLAHOMA CITY
After a quick drive through Kansas, enter Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory and home to the Cherokee Nation. In Tulsa, see the “East Meets West” sculpture that pays tribute to Cyrus Avery, “The Father of Route 66.” Later today, arrive in Oklahoma City. (Breakfast)
Day 7: OKLAHOMA CITY–ELK CITY–AMARILLO
Start the day with a city sightseeing tour of Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. From here, travel to Elk City and visit the National Route 66 Museum for a journey through each of the eight states through which iconic Route 66 passes through. Continue into the Texas Panhandle en route to Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas. (Breakfast)
Day 8: AMARILLO–TUCUMCARI–ALBUQUERQUE
On the way out of Amarillo, stop at Cadillac Ranch, a quirky art sculpture consisting of a collection of 10 Cadillacs. Before crossing into New Mexico, reach Adrian, the halfway point on Route 66. Across the New Mexico border, visit Russell’s Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia. Next, stop in Tucumcari and shop for souvenirs at Teepee Curios. See the iconic Blue Swallow Motel that has been serving travelers of Route 66 since 1939, along with many original signs from the town’s heyday. Visit Central Avenue in Albuquerque, where many of the original Route 66 buildings and businesses still stand. Afterward, there’s free time to enjoy this old town with its fine parish church and Spanish-style plaza. (CBreakfast)
Day 9: ALBUQUERQUE
This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast or sunbathe in the New Mexico sunshine. Consider an optional Albuquerque Trolley ride or a short walk to Old Town, site of the city’s original settlement. Or visit one of the city’s fine museums, like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, Albuquerque Museum, or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.
Day 10: ALBUQUERQUE–GALLUP–WINSLOW–WILLIAMS
Depart Albuquerque and cross the Continental Divide continuing to Gallup, sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World.” It is the homeland of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and many other tribes who comprise a large percentage of the population. Then we’ll be “Standing on the Corner of Winslow, Arizona”, the sleepy Route 66 town made famous by The Eagles in their hit song “Take It Easy”. The next two nights are in Williams, gateway to the Grand Canyon, and listed in the National Register for Historic Places. The Historic Downtown District covers six square blocks and boasts a rich heritage that features the Old West and Route 66.
Day 11: WILLIAMS. EXCURSION TO GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
Deviate from Route 66 to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park. Wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife with a chance to spot elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. For an unforgettable experience, consider an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an unforgettable bird’s eye view of the canyon. Return to Williams where the evening is free to explore the historic Americana-style shops and restaurants dating back to the early 1900s. Be sure to take note of the neon signs of the preserved circa 1940s “Motel Row.” (CBreakfast)
Day 12: WILLIAMS–SELIGMAN–LAS VEGAS
Depart Williams for Seligman, home to the rebirth of Route 66. Detour once again from Route 66 to visit the bright lights of Las Vegas. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the glittering “Strip.” This evening, join an optional night on the town featuring an extravagant dinner followed by a dazzling live show featuring top Vegas entertainment. (CBreakfast)
Day 13: LAS VEGAS
A day at leisure to relax by the pool or explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Ride the world’s highest rollercoaster, float through a Venetian canal, or test your luck at one of the many world-famous casinos—it’s all possible in Las Vegas! Don’t miss downtown Las Vegas, where you’ll find the Fremont Street Experience, five city blocks enclosed in a glass atrium and filled with dazzling lights, sounds, and action. A variety of optional excursions are available, including a float trip through dramatic Black Canyon on the Colorado River.
Day 14: LAS VEGAS–VICTORVILLE–LOS ANGELES
Today, depart the man-made oasis of Las Vegas, and cross the natural beauty of Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains en route to Los Angeles. Visit the California Route 66 Museum, to see its nostalgic 50’s diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford exhibits. Overnight in Los Angeles, where you’ll visit Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66.
Day 15: LOS ANGELES
Explore the exciting “City of Angels” with a morning tour of legendary Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, and Hollywood, where you’ll walk along the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, and get a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign. Consider an optional Warner Brothers Studio tour, shop for souvenirs, or relax by the pool.
Day 16: LOS ANGELES
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation with extra nights and explore Los Angeles further.
