Compare Trans-American Adventure by Cosmos vs Rockies Trail by Omega Tours
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| Trip |
4 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 24 days | 10 days |
| Price From | $ 5,020 | $ 3,599 |
| Price Per Day | $ 209 | $ 360 |
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| Trip Style | Group tour | Group tour |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Premium |
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| Cities and Attractions |
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| Flights & Transport | Airfare included | Ground transport included |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description | Take a trip across America from sea to shining sea on a 24-day adventure to discover many of the iconic destinations of the United States. This affordable U.S. vacation begins in the Big Apple, New York City. Enjoy guided sightseeing of NYC’s famous attractions—Broadway, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and more. From New York, travel to the birthplace of Independence—Philadelphia, then to Washington DC, the nation’s capital. Your expert Local Guide will show you the historic sites, featuring the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, WWII Memorial, and Ford’s Theatre where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. Stop for photos at the White House and Capitol Hill. Head north through the home of Little League Baseball in Williamsport, and onto the Rainbow Bridge to Canada for a stay at awe-inspiring Niagara Falls. Explore the falls via a sightseeing cruise and drive along Niagara Parkway, then cross the farmlands and vineyards of Ontario to arrive in Dearborn, Michigan. Visit the Henry Ford Museum in this Detroit suburb to learn about the history of the American automobile. Next, travel to Chicago, Illinois, for sightseeing in Lake Michigan’s “Windy City,” then on to Minneapolis, Minnesota—“Land of 10,000 Lakes.” Visit the largest shopping mall in the country, Mall of America, then venture through the farmlands of South Dakota and home of the Sioux Indian Nation. Visit Badlands National Park, with its dramatic landscape carved by wind and water into steep canyons and towering rock spires amid its vast grasslands. In the Black Hills of South Dakota, visit Mount Rushmore to see the granite monument to four American presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt. Traverse the legendary cattle ranchland and the Bighorn Mountains to Cody, Wyoming—home of Buffalo Bill. Visit Yellowstone National Park with stunning views of Yellowstone Canyon and magnificent Lower Falls in America’s first National Park. Take in the spectacular wilderness in Yellowstone, abundant wildlife, and amazing thermal features, including the famed Old Faithful geyser. Visit the Wild West town of Jackson at the foot of the Grand Tetons, then continue into Utah to visit Salt Lake City. Continue into breathtaking Bryce Canyon and Zion national parks, with sandstone and limestone cliffs of ever-changing colors. Experience one of the Natural Wonders of the World at Grand Canyon National Park in Arizona. Take in the views from the canyon rim, then travel on to Las Vegas, Nevada, for an exciting visit to the “Vegas Strip”—lined with bright lights and casinos. Try your luck at blackjack or the “one-armed bandit” slot machines, then drive through the Mojave Desert and over the San Gabriel Mountains to Los Angeles, California. Enjoy sightseeing in the “The City of Angels,” with an included sightseeing tour of Tinseltown’s famous sites in Hollywood and Beverly Hills. From New York to L.A., and the historic frontiers in between, this affordable U.S. vacation is a trip for the history books! | Experience hot springs, glacial ice fields, and breathtaking views of soaring peaks in Canada's Rocky Mountains. Journey over rolling foothills and through interior canyons to discover the frontier legends of homesteaders, cowboys, and gold seekers. The spectacular mountain park settings of Banff, Jasper, and Whistler give way to the port cities of Vancouver and Victoria. Revel in the Pacific experience from awesome coastal scenery to boat cruises across blue-water straits where whales travel and bald eagles soar |
Day 1: NEW YORK CITY
Welcome to the “Big Apple!” Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.
Day 2: NEW YORK CITY
New York City is one of the world’s most exciting cities, buzzing with atmosphere and packed with fascinating sights. On today’s guided sightseeing tour, see the major attractions—Broadway, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the 9/11 Memorial. Your afternoon is free.
Day 3: NEW YORK CITY–PHILADELPHIA– WASHINGTON DC AREA
Head south through New Jersey to Philadelphia, the birthplace of the United States. During your free time, perhaps see Independence Hall and visit the Liberty Bell. On to Washington DC.
Day 4: WASHINGTON DC AREA
The nation’s capital is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your half-day tour with a Local Guide features Capitol Hill, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, National WWII Memorial, and other well-known sights. Stop for photos at the White House and Capitol Hill. As the remainder of the day is free, perhaps visit one of the many Smithsonian museums. (Breakfast)
Day 5: WASHINGTON DC–NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA
A scenic day as you head north through Pennsylvania Dutch Country, home of the Amish and Mennonite religious sects. Then, along the Susquehanna River to Williamsport, the birthplace of Little League baseball and site of the league’s annual “World Series.” Later, cross the Rainbow Bridge to Canada and arrive at Niagara Falls, Ontario, for your overnight stay. (Breakfast)
Day 6: NIAGARA FALLS, CANADA–DEARBORN
This morning, board your Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise for amazing close-up views from the base of the falls. Then, travel the Niagara Parkway, admiring the sweeping landscapes of this scenic countryside. Head southwest and cross the farmlands and vineyards of Ontario, to Dearborn, a suburb of Detroit.
NOTE:Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. If unfavorable conditions exist, a walking tour of the scenic tunnels will be substituted.
Day 7: DEARBORN–CHICAGO
Begin the day with a visit to the Henry Ford Museum. Reach Chicago, America’s third-largest city, in the late afternoon. City sightseeing includes all the major landmarks of the “Windy City.” (Breakfast)
Day 8: CHICAGO
Today is free for independent activities. Perhaps take an optional cruise on Lake Michigan and through the locks of the Chicago River.
Day 9: CHICAGO–MADISON–MINNEAPOLIS
First stop today is Madison, a vibrant city situated between two sparkling lakes. A photo stop at the capitol before making our way to Minnesota—the “Land of 10,000 Lakes.”
Day 10: MINNEAPOLIS. EXCURSION TO THE MALL OF AMERICA
Enjoy an orientation tour of the bustling downtown area of Minneapolis before reaching the Mall of America, the largest shopping mall in the United States, featuring an extensive range of retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment.
Day 11: MINNEAPOLIS–MITCHELL–OACOMA
Into the rich farmlands of South Dakota, homeland of the great Sioux Indian Nation. Stop in Mitchell to see the Corn Palace, a remarkable Moorish-style building where the interior and exterior are covered with designs of corn outlined with grasses and grain. Stay overnight on the shores of the Missouri River in Oacoma.
Day 12: OACOMA–BADLANDS NATIONAL PARK–MOUNT RUSHMORE–CUSTER
First, a drive through the prairie as it once was when only buffalo and the Sioux Indians occupied the land. Next is Badlands National Park, where 37 million years of wind and water have carved a remarkably colorful sight. Then, head into the Black Hills and behold the granite faces of Mount Rushmore, a giant monument to four American presidents—Washington, Jefferson, Lincoln, and Roosevelt.
Day 13: CUSTER–CODY
Head through the rich, mountainous country where open-range cattle kings made war on the sheep ranchers of the 1880s. See Sheridan and then ascend into the alpine region of the Bighorn Mountains, and site of the Battle of Tongue River. Overnight in Buffalo Bill’s frontier town of Cody. (CBreakfast)
Day 14: CODY–YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK–WEST YELLOWSTONE
Travel through Shoshone National Forest to splendid Yellowstone National Park. Follow Grand Loop Road to Artist Point with magnificent views of Yellowstone Canyon and the stupendous Lower Falls, nearly twice the height of Niagara. Yellowstone’s abundant and diverse wildlife are as famous as its geysers. It’s home to hundreds of animal species, including bears, wolves, bison, elk, and antelope. As a visitor to the world’s first national park, you may be lucky enough to encounter some of these amazing creatures in their natural habitat. Overnight in West Yellowstone, gateway to the geysers of Yellowstone National Park.
Day 15: WEST YELLOWSTONE. DAY EXCURSION TO YELLOWSTONE NATIONAL PARK
This morning, return to Yellowstone National Park and visit the bubbling mud paint pots, the reliable “blow” of Old Faithful, Yellowstone’s great geyser, and West Thumb Geyser Basin. Return to West Yellowstone and explore on your own. (CBreakfast)
Day 16: WEST YELLOWSTONE–JACKSON
Travel south through Idaho and into the Wild West town of Jackson. The afternoon and evening are free to explore the shops and art galleries of historic downtown. Be sure not to miss Town Square, flanked by massive arches made of elk antlers on each corner! (CBreakfast)
Day 17: JACKSON–SALT LAKE CITY
Today, drive to Salt Lake City, Utah’s vibrant capital. Set on the edge of Great Salt Lake Desert, this center of the Mormon religion is where Brigham Young declared to his followers, “This is the place.” An included orientation tour shows you the Capitol Building, the Tabernacle, and other city highlights.
Day 18: SALT LAKE CITY–BRYCE CANYON NATIONAL PARK–CEDAR CITY
Travel through the sagebrush landscape of southern Utah to Bryce Canyon National Park with its breathtaking sandstone and limestone cliffs, unique formations called hoodoos, and ever-changing colors. Head west through Dixie National Forest to Cedar City for your overnight. (Breakfast)
Day 19: CEDAR CITY–ZION NATIONAL PARK–GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK
First stop is Zion National Park, a landscape that was carved out by rushing streams over a period of a million years. Through Kaibab National Forest to the less visited North Rim of Grand Canyon National Park, where you’ll marvel at the stunning views of the flame-colored walls plunging 4,800 feet into the Colorado River. The evening is free. (Breakfast,Lunch)
Day 20: GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK–LAS VEGAS
Head to the unique phenomenon of Las Vegas, where today’s fortune hunters try their luck at the 24-hour gambling tables and slots. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the colorful “Strip.” Tonight, perhaps take a walk down the Strip and be amazed by the flashing lights and variety of nightlife.
Day 21: LAS VEGAS
A free day to explore Las Vegas. Your Tour Director can arrange an optional excursion to the Hoover Dam and will have suggestions for the best shows to see this evening.
Day 22: LAS VEGAS–LOS ANGELES
Travel through the Mojave Desert and over the San Gabriel Mountains to America’s second largest city, Los Angeles.
Day 23: LOS ANGELES
Start the day with a sightseeing tour of Tinseltown. You’ll drive to Hollywood and see the footprints of the glamourous stars at the TCL Chinese Theatre, and famous Dolby Theater, home of the Oscars. Then, on to elegant Beverly Hills followed by a drive down the Sunset Strip. The rest of your afternoon and evening are free. Perhaps take an optional excursion to Warner Brothers Studio for a behind-the-scenes look at movie making.
Day 24: LOS ANGELES
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation with extra nights and explore L.A. further.
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN CALGARY
Arrive at Calgary International Airport. Individual transfer to your centrally located hotel. After check-in the remainder of the day is free. The tour director will contact you in the late afternoon to give details about joining the tour. Explore the Old West at the Glenbow Museum or Fort Calgary on your own, browse through the Eau Claire Market, ride up the Calgary Tower for a great view and savor the great restaurants and dynamic nightlife. Overnight in Calgary.
Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott, Calgary, or similar
DAY 2: CALGARY TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK
We begin the day with a city tour of Calgary. Leaving the city, we travel west on the Trans-Canada Highway into the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies soon fill the horizon as we approach Banff National Park, our first of several in the Canadian national parks system. We soon arrive in the charming resort town of Banff. Overnight in Banff. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel or Banff Aspen Lodge, Banff, or similar
DAY 3: BANFF NATIONAL PARK
Today we will enjoy a tour of the region around Banff. The area became Canada’s first national park in 1885 to protect its natural hot springs. An optional Helicopter Sightseeing Tour will give you the chance to see the eastern ranges of the Rocky Mountains. Alternatively, you can take an optional gondola ride to spectacular Sulphur Mountain. Bring your camera! The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the surroundings of Banff, stroll along Banff Avenue, or relax and enjoy the scenery. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel or Banff Aspen Lodge, Banff, or similar
DAY 4: BANFF NATIONAL PARK TO JASPER NATIONAL PARK
Today’s journey through Banff and Jasper national parks promises to be a highlight of our Rockies Trail program. Shortly after leaving Banff, we visit the famous scenery of Lake Louise, one of the most photographed lakes in Canada. Afterward, we travel north on the famed Icefields Parkway through a rugged wilderness flanked by dramatic mountain ranges. At the Columbia Icefield, we board a specially constructed Ice Explorer to ride on the surface of the ancient Athabasca Glacier. Close to Jasper, you have the chance to go on an optional raft trip on the Athabasca River. Your experienced guide will point out the natural and human history as you raft through short rapids and stretches of calm waters. Overnight in Jasper. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Lobstick Lodge, Jasper, or similar
DAY 5: JASPER NATIONAL PARK TO SUN PEAKS
Before leaving Jasper National Park this morning, you can take part in an optional Spirit Island Cruise on Maligne Lake, the most picturesque and largest glacier-fed lake in the park. You may alternately take an optional motorcycle tour of Jasper, riding in the comfortable sidecar with an unmatched view of the forests and mountains. Then, we travel west along the Yellowhead Highway and into the heartland of British Columbia. Breathtaking, unspoiled vistas await visitors in every season of the year. The route takes us along the Thompson River through the picturesque Shuswap Highlands. Overnight in Sun Peaks. Meals: B
Accommodation at Sun Peaks Grand, Sun Peaks, or similar
DAY 6: SUN PEAKS TO WHISTLER
We can expect a day of dramatic scenery changes when we drive through the ranch lands and head for the coastal mountains. A journey along the Duffey Lake Road exposes new vistas at every turn. An optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over Garibaldi Park gives you an inspiring view of a natural preserve of volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and meadows. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Whistler. Meals: B
Accommodation at Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, or similar
DAY 7: WHISTLER TO VICTORIA
The Sea-to-Sky Highway leads us south through spectacular coastal scenery today. You will visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge suspended high above a magnificent canyon. From Horseshoe Bay, we cruise by ferry across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island and continue by coach to Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city. Arriving in Victoria, we embark on a city tour of this former British enclave. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar
DAY 8: VICTORIA
Proud of her maritime heritage, Victoria has retained a quaint, colonial demeanor evident in the many 19th-century landmarks throughout the city. Today we treat ourselves to a tour of the world-famous Butchart Gardens, one of the world’s great floral displays set in a reclaimed stone quarry. Time will be allocated here for browsing through the regal gardens. You can take part in an optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over downtown Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. You can also go on an optional Whalewatching Excursion aboard a Zodiac or a regular vessel. Watch for the magnificent orcas and the abundance of marine wildlife. The remainder of the day is at leisurely exploring the city’s delights. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B
Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar
DAY 9: VICTORIA TO VANCOUVER
We continue through the resort region of the Gulf Islands to the oceanside city of Vancouver. Upon arrival in Vancouver, we enjoy an interesting tour of the city, including Stanley Park, English Bay, Gastown, Chinatown, and much more. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration or simple relaxation. This evening features our farewell dinner. Meals: B, D
Accommodation at the Sutton Place Hotel, Vancouver, or similar
DAY 10: VANCOUVER DEPARTURE
A time for last-minute shopping and sad farewells. Individual transfer to Vancouver International Airport in time to check in for your return flight. Meals: B
