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20-Day Highlights of the USA: East Coast Cities to Western National Parks (13 Sep–02 Oct 2025)

Viewed by 85 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

New York, USA on September 13, 2025

9:00am

Arrival & Hotel check-in

Arrive JFK or Newark, transfer to Manhattan and check in; drop bags and freshen up to start exploring. Useful to choose Midtown for walkability.
USD0, 1h0m.

10:30am

Breakfast — Ess-a-Bagel

Classic New York bagel deli; quick, filling and locally loved — great first NYC breakfast. Open from around 7:00am; expect queues at peak times.
USD12, 0h45m.

11:30am

Walk Midtown: Bryant Park & New York Public Library

A gentle introduction to Manhattan: outdoor park, seasonal kiosks and the iconic library façade — pleasant and free to stroll.
USD0, 1h0m.

1:00pm

Lunch — Koreatown (Bulgogi or Korean BBQ quick set)

Fast, flavourful lunch options along 32nd Street; many places open by 11:30 and ideal to recharge before sightseeing.
USD20, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Empire State Building (Observatory)

Panoramic city views from the observatory; open typically 8:00am–2:00am — go mid-afternoon to avoid early morning crowds.
USD44, 1h15m.

5:00pm

Evening stroll Times Square & Broadway ticket pickup

Take in the lights, pick up same-day discounted Broadway tickets from the TKTS booth (opens 3:00pm for evening shows).
USD0, 1h0m.

7:00pm

Dinner — Joe's Pizza (slice) or Midtown restaurant

Classic New York pizza slice or sit-down Italian near Broadway — widely open into the evening; quick and convenient before a show.
USD25, 1h0m.

8:00pm

Optional Broadway show

See a Broadway performance (showtimes usually 7:00–8:00pm start); book in advance for popular shows or use TKTS for same-day deals.
USD60, 2h30m.

Day 2: Statues & Museums

New York, USA on September 14, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Blue Bottle Coffee & pastry

Quick specialty coffee and pastry to fuel a full day; many locations open 7:00am–8:00pm.
USD12, 0h30m.

8:30am

Ferry to Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

Ferry departs from Battery Park; first ferries c. 8:30am. Visit Liberty Island and Ellis Island Immigration Museum for US history and skyline views.
USD24, 4h0m.

1:00pm

Lunch — Stone Street (Financial District)

Historic cobbled street with varied eateries; terrace pubs and seafood options open midday—ideal after the ferry return.
USD28, 1h0m.

2:30pm

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Outdoor memorial is open 24/7; the museum usually open 9:00am–5:00pm (check for extended hours). Powerful and important; allow at least 1.5–2 hours.
USD30, 2h0m.

5:30pm

Walk the High Line & Chelsea Market

Elevated park with art and views, ending at Chelsea Market — markets typically open until early evening for snacks and shopping.
USD0, 1h30m.

7:30pm

Dinner — Chelsea Market food stalls (seafood/tacos/ramen)

Wide choice to suit groups; eateries generally open until 9:00pm–10:00pm depending on vendor.
USD30, 1h0m.

Day 3: Culture & Central Park

New York, USA on September 15, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Sarabeth's (Central Park South)

Popular brunch spot with classic American breakfast; opens c. 8:00am — expect a short wait at peak times.
USD25, 0h45m.

9:30am

Central Park: Bethesda Terrace & Rowboat

Stroll through Central Park to Bethesda Terrace; rowboat hire at the Loeb Boathouse typically from 10:00am during good weather.
USD20, 1h30m.

11:30am

Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

One of the world's great museums; typically open 10:00am–5:30pm (check for extended hours). Spend a few hours seeing key galleries.
USD25, 3h0m.

3:00pm

Lunch — Museum cafeteria or Upper East Side café

Quick lunch to continue museum time or more relaxed cafe dining nearby; many options open throughout the afternoon.
USD20, 1h0m.

5:00pm

Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center)

Sunset views recommended; open typically 10:00am–11:00pm — book tickets for sunset slot for best skyline photos.
USD40, 1h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner — Hell's Kitchen international dining

Large area with global cuisine close to Broadway; restaurants remain busy into the evening (open until 10:00pm+).
USD35, 1h15m.

Day 4: Travel to Washington

New York to Washington, USA on September 16, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & check-out

Quick breakfast at hotel or nearby café; finish packing and check out for transfer to Penn Station for Amtrak.
USD12, 0h45m.

9:00am

Amtrak to Washington, DC

Northeast Regional or Acela service from Penn Station to Washington Union Station; journey 3–3.5 hours (book in advance for best fares).
USD100, 3h30m.

1:00pm

Lunch near Union Station

Union Station has many dining options open midday; convenient for arrival and transfer to your hotel.
USD20, 1h0m.

2:30pm

National Mall orientation walk

Visit the Capitol grounds, Washington Monument (grounds open daily) and exterior of the museums; open-air stroll to get bearings.
USD0, 2h0m.

5:30pm

Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum (pending hours)

One of the most popular Smithsonian museums (hours typically 10:00am–5:30pm). If closed for renovation, visit another nearby Smithsonian open that day.
USD0, 1h30m.

7:30pm

Dinner — The Wharf or Penn Quarter

Waterfront dining at The Wharf or lively Penn Quarter restaurants; many venues open until 10:00pm–11:00pm.
USD40, 1h15m.

Day 5: Museums & Monuments

Washington, USA on September 17, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Busboys and Poets

Local cafe with a creative atmosphere; opens early and is a good spot before a full day of museums.
USD18, 0h45m.

9:00am

US Capitol Visitor Center (tour)

Book a guided tour via the visitor centre (typically starts from 9:00am); check ahead for security and booking requirements.
USD0, 1h30m.

11:00am

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

Open usually 10:00am–5:30pm; covers US cultural and political history — great for 1–2 hours.
USD0, 1h30m.

1:00pm

Lunch — Food trucks on the Mall or nearby café

Seasonal food trucks near the Mall offer quick, varied options between museum visits; typically open through afternoon.
USD15, 1h0m.

2:30pm

Lincoln Memorial, Korean & Vietnam Veterans Memorials

Open-air memorials accessible any time; late afternoon light is pleasant for photos and reflection.
USD0, 1h30m.

5:00pm

Dinner — Georgetown waterfront

Historic Georgetown offers waterfront dining and boutiques; restaurants open into the evening, ideal for a relaxed dinner.
USD45, 1h15m.

Day 6: Fly to Charleston

Washington to Charleston, USA on September 18, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & airport transfer

Early breakfast and taxi/Uber to Reagan National or Dulles for a short flight to Charleston (1.5 hours flying time).
USD15, 1h0m.

9:00am

Flight to Charleston, SC

Several carriers operate this route; book a morning flight to maximise afternoon time in Charleston.
USD150, 1h30m.

12:00pm

Lunch — Husk (or local Lowcountry cafe)

Husk showcases Southern cuisine (reservations recommended) or choose a nearby Lowcountry spot for local seafood; many open midday.
USD35, 1h0m.

1:30pm

Walking tour of Charleston Historic District

Guided or self-guided tour of the Battery, Rainbow Row and cobbled streets; historic homes and gardens open mid-morning to late afternoon.
USD20, 2h0m.

4:00pm

Visit to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens (optional)

Plantation gardens typically open 9:00am–5:00pm; expect beautiful landscapes and historic house tours if time allows (check closing times).
USD30, 1h30m.

7:00pm

Dinner — Fleet Landing or local seafood restaurant

Waterfront seafood dinner showcasing Lowcountry cuisine; restaurants generally open into the evening.
USD45, 1h15m.

Day 7: Charleston morning, Fly to Nashville

Charleston to Nashville, USA on September 19, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Callie's Hot Little Biscuit

A Charleston favourite for biscuits and coffee; quick and regional breakfast options available from early morning.
USD10, 0h30m.

9:00am

Carriage Tour or Market Street

Take a historic carriage tour (~1hr) or browse Charleston City Market; most tours run from 9:00am and markets open mid-morning.
USD30, 1h15m.

12:00pm

Lunch — Lowcountry boil or shrimp & grits

Choose a local spot for classic dishes before heading to the airport; many restaurants open at lunchtime.
USD25, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Flight to Nashville, TN

Fly mid-afternoon from Charleston to Nashville (direct flights available); aim for an early evening arrival to experience live music.
USD180, 2h0m.

6:00pm

Check-in & quick refresh

Check into a downtown hotel near Broadway to be in the centre of Nashville's live-music action.
USD0, 0h45m.

7:30pm

Dinner — Broadway Honky Tonks (Hattie B's Hot Chicken)

Try Nashville hot chicken at Hattie B's or grab dinner on Broadway and hop between honky tonks — venues open late into the night.
USD25, 1h0m.

Day 8: Music City

Nashville, USA on September 20, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Pancake Pantry or Biscuit Love

Popular breakfast spots in Nashville; expect queues at weekend/peak times but great Southern breakfasts.
USD18, 0h45m.

9:30am

Country Music Hall of Fame

Core museum for country music history and exhibits; open typically 9:00am–5:00pm — a must for music fans.
USD30, 2h0m.

12:00pm

Lunch — The Gulch (hip restaurants)

Trendy neighbourhood with many lunch options and a lively atmosphere; ideal for a relaxed midday meal.
USD25, 1h0m.

2:00pm

RCA Studio B tour & walk Broadway

Studio B tours by reservation showcase historic recording history; then stroll Broadway for souvenir shops and live music.
USD20, 2h0m.

6:00pm

Dinner & live music — Bluebird Cafe (if available)

Iconic songwriter venue (book months ahead) or choose another music venue on Broadway; restaurants and bars open late.
USD40, 2h0m.

Day 9: Fly to New Orleans

Nashville to New Orleans, USA on September 21, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & check-out

Quick breakfast and transfer to Nashville airport for a mid-morning flight to New Orleans (c. 1.5 hours).
USD12, 0h45m.

10:30am

Flight to New Orleans, LA

Morning or late-morning flights available; arrive at MSY and transfer to the French Quarter.
USD120, 1h45m.

1:00pm

Lunch — Café du Monde

Classic beignets and strong coffee in the French Quarter; perfect arrival treat and open throughout the day and evening.
USD12, 0h45m.

2:30pm

French Quarter walking tour & Jackson Square

Explore historic streets, St Louis Cathedral and local artists; tours run throughout the day and the quarter is lively at all hours.
USD15, 2h0m.

5:30pm

Steamboat Natchez evening cruise (seasonal)

Dinner cruise with jazz (check seasonal schedules — cruises often depart in evening hours); book ahead for best seats.
USD70, 2h0m.

9:30pm

Late-night live jazz on Frenchmen Street

Smaller venues and bars with live music open until late; great way to experience authentic New Orleans jazz.
USD20, 2h0m.

Day 10: New Orleans full day

New Orleans, USA on September 22, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Brennan's or local café

Classic Creole breakfast or a casual café in the French Quarter; many open from 8:00am onwards.
USD25, 0h45m.

9:30am

National WWII Museum

Highly rated museum; open typically 9:00am–5:00pm — allow 2–3 hours to see main exhibits.
USD38, 2h30m.

12:30pm

Lunch — Po'boys or gumbo

Try a classic po'boy sandwich or local gumbo at a well-reviewed spot; many open for lunch until mid-afternoon.
USD20, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Garden District & Lafayette Cemetery walk

Beautiful antebellum homes and famous cemeteries; cemetery hours can be limited—typically open daylight hours with some closures for tours.
USD0, 2h0m.

6:30pm

Dinner — Commander's Palace (reservations advised)

Refined Creole dining in the Garden District; opens for dinner in the evening — reservations strongly recommended.
USD75, 1h30m.

9:30pm

Evening — Live music in the French Quarter

Return to the Quarter for live music and nightlife; clubs and bars generally stay open late.
USD20, 2h0m.

Day 11: Fly to Austin

New Orleans to Austin, USA on September 23, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & pack

Light breakfast and transfer to MSY for a morning flight to Austin (approximately 1.5 hours).
USD12, 0h45m.

10:00am

Flight to Austin, TX

Direct flights typically 1.5–2 hours; arrive at Austin-Bergstrom and transfer to downtown or Sixth Street area.
USD140, 1h45m.

1:00pm

Lunch — Franklin Barbecue or local food trucks

Franklin is legendary (long queue) or enjoy varied local food trucks around downtown — many open from lunch onwards.
USD25, 1h0m.

3:00pm

State Capitol & South Congress

Visit the Texas State Capitol (free tours typically hourly) and stroll South Congress for boutique shops and murals.
USD0, 2h0m.

6:30pm

Dinner — South Congress eateries

Diverse dining options with live music in the evenings; many restaurants and bars open late into the night.
USD35, 1h15m.

9:00pm

Live music on Sixth Street or local venues

Austin is the Live Music Capital — check local listings for evening shows; venues typically open late.
USD20, 2h0m.

Day 12: Austin to San Antonio

Austin & San Antonio, USA on September 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — Jo's Coffee & tacos

Casual Austin breakfast and coffee; plenty of early options before the short drive to San Antonio (c. 1.5 hours).
USD12, 0h45m.

10:00am

Drive or bus to San Antonio

Travel south on I-35 (~1.5–2 hours); aim to arrive before lunchtime to begin exploring the River Walk and Alamo area.
USD30, 1h45m.

12:00pm

Lunch — River Walk riverside café

Lunch on the famous River Walk — many restaurants open at midday with pleasant waterside seating.
USD25, 1h0m.

1:30pm

The Alamo & River Walk boat tour

Visit the Alamo (open typically 9:00am–5:30pm) and take a boat tour along the River Walk for orientation.
USD15, 1h30m.

4:00pm

Explore King William Historic District

Stroll this elegant neighbourhood with galleries and cafes; pleasant late afternoon exploration before dinner.
USD0, 1h0m.

7:00pm

Dinner — Authentic Tex-Mex (Mi Tierra Café open 24/7)

Experience Tex-Mex in a lively, historic setting; Mi Tierra and other favourites stay open late.
USD30, 1h15m.

Day 13: Fly to Phoenix / Sedona

San Antonio to Phoenix, USA on September 25, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & airport transfer

Early breakfast and transfer to SAT for a morning flight to Phoenix Sky Harbor (approx 2.5–3 hours total travel time with connection if needed).
USD15, 0h45m.

9:30am

Flight to Phoenix, AZ

Direct flights available; landing at Phoenix gives access to Sedona and the Grand Canyon region by road (rental car recommended).
USD170, 2h30m.

1:00pm

Drive to Sedona (optional scenic stop)

Drive north ~2 hours to Sedona for red-rock scenery; lunch en route or upon arrival — Sedona restaurants open through afternoon.
USD60, 2h0m.

3:30pm

Sedona viewpoint short hikes (Bell Rock / Cathedral Rock viewpoint)

Short walks with spectacular red rock views; park hours typically sunrise to sunset, trails vary in difficulty.
USD0, 1h30m.

6:30pm

Dinner — Sedona farm-to-table restaurant

Relaxed dinner with local produce; many Sedona restaurants close relatively early (around 9:00pm).
USD40, 1h0m.

8:30pm

Overnight in Sedona or Flagstaff

Stay in Sedona for scenery or drive on to Flagstaff to shorten Grand Canyon drive for the following day (both have evening accommodation options).
USD0, 0h0m.

Day 14: Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon, USA on September 26, 2025

6:30am

Early drive to Grand Canyon South Rim

From Flagstaff/Sedona, drive ~1.5–2.5 hours to the South Rim; arrive early for cooler temperatures and clear morning views.
USD0, 2h0m.

9:00am

Grand Canyon Visitor Centre & Rim Trail walk

Visitor centre open early (typically 8:00am–5:00pm) with exhibits and ranger info; scenic rim walks and viewpoints are accessible all day.
USD35, 2h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch — El Tovar Dining Room or picnic

Historic El Tovar offers sit-down dining (reservations recommended) or enjoy a packed picnic on a rim bench.
USD30, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Scenic drives & viewpoints (Mather Point, Yavapai)

Drive or shuttle to key viewpoints; shuttle services run seasonally and viewpoints are open daylight hours.
USD0, 2h0m.

5:30pm

Sunset at a rim viewpoint

Sunset offers dramatic colours — arrive early to secure a spot; park access available after dark but facilities vary.
USD0, 1h0m.

8:00pm

Overnight near Grand Canyon (Tusayan/Grand Canyon Village)

Stay local to avoid long drives after sunset; lodging available in Grand Canyon Village or nearby Tusayan.
USD0, 0h0m.

Day 15: Drive to Las Vegas

Grand Canyon to Las Vegas, USA on September 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast & depart for Las Vegas

Breakfast near the canyon then begin the scenic drive west toward Las Vegas (approx 4–5 hours depending on route and stops).
USD12, 0h45m.

12:30pm

Lunch en route (Kingman or Hoover Dam area)

Stop for lunch in a roadside town or near Hoover Dam; visitor centre at Hoover Dam open during day for viewing and short tours.
USD20, 1h0m.

3:30pm

Arrive in Las Vegas & hotel check-in

Settle into a Strip hotel; afternoon is good for exploring the resorts and a short rest before evening activities.
USD0, 1h0m.

5:00pm

Explore the Strip: Bellagio Fountains & Conservatory

Fountain shows run regularly in the evening and the conservatory typically open until late; central Vegas attractions open most of the day/evening.
USD0, 1h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner & show (Cirque du Soleil or headline performer)

Book an evening show in advance and enjoy dinner at a renowned Strip restaurant — shows usually start 7:30–8:30pm.
USD120, 3h0m.

Day 16: Las Vegas leisure

Las Vegas, USA on September 28, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast — Mon Ami Gabi (Paris Las Vegas)

Relaxed brunch with Strip views; restaurants begin service by 8:00–9:00am.
USD25, 1h0m.

10:30am

Red Rock Canyon half-day trip (optional)

Short drive west to scenic Red Rock Canyon for hikes and drives; visitor centre open typically 8:00am–5:00pm and a park fee applies.
USD15, 3h30m.

2:30pm

Lunch — Specialty buffet or local cafe

Try a well-known buffet for variety or a neighbourhood restaurant off-Strip for quieter dining; open midday onward.
USD35, 1h0m.

4:00pm

Afternoon pool & casino exploration

Relax at the hotel pool or explore themed casinos; pools typically open during daylight hours and casino floors are 24/7.
USD0, 2h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner — Top-tier steakhouse or celebrity chef restaurant

Reserve in advance for a popular steakhouse or celebrity-chef restaurant on the Strip; most open late into the evening.
USD80, 1h30m.

10:30pm

Evening — Fremont Street or nightclub

For a different vibe, visit Fremont Street in downtown Las Vegas or one of the many nightclubs; nightlife runs late.
USD30, 2h0m.

Day 17: Fly to Los Angeles

Las Vegas to Los Angeles, USA on September 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast & transfer to LAS

Early breakfast then short transfer to McCarran/Harry Reid for a morning flight to LAX (~1 hour).
USD15, 0h45m.

10:00am

Flight to Los Angeles, CA

Frequent flights; arrive into LAX or Burbank and transfer to Hollywood or Santa Monica depending on plan.
USD80, 1h15m.

12:30pm

Lunch — In-N-Out or Santa Monica Pier dining

Try a West Coast fast-food classic or enjoy seafood near Santa Monica Pier; pierside restaurants open midday.
USD15, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Walk Santa Monica Pier & Venice Beach

Iconic beachfront walk with street performers, skateparks and canals; public spaces open throughout the day.
USD0, 2h0m.

5:30pm

Check-in and refresh

Head to your hotel in Hollywood or Santa Monica, check in and rest before an evening out.
USD0, 0h45m.

7:30pm

Dinner — Mexican or seafood in Santa Monica/West Hollywood

LA has excellent Mexican cuisine and coastal dining; many restaurants open late into the evening.
USD40, 1h15m.

Day 18: Los Angeles sights

Los Angeles, USA on September 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast — The Griddle Cafe or local café

Hearty breakfast before a day of sightseeing; popular spots open early but queues are common on weekends.
USD20, 0h45m.

9:30am

Griffith Observatory & Hollywood Sign viewpoint

Observatory open roughly 12:00pm–10:00pm on many days but grounds and viewpoint are accessible earlier for photos; check exact opening hours before planning interior visits.
USD0, 1h30m.

11:30am

Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre

Stroll Hollywood Boulevard and see famous handprints and stars; theatres and shops open through the day.
USD0, 1h0m.

1:00pm

Lunch — Korean BBQ in Koreatown or Sunset Strip café

Koreatown offers excellent lunchtime options; restaurants typically open from midday.
USD25, 1h0m.

3:00pm

The Getty Center

Art, architecture and gardens with scheduled entry times; open usually 10:00am–5:30pm (check for closures and reserve tram times).
USD0, 2h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner — Little Tokyo or Downtown LA dining

Downtown LA and Little Tokyo have varied evening dining options and nightlife; most restaurants open late into the evening.
USD40, 1h15m.

Day 19: Fly to San Francisco

Los Angeles to San Francisco, USA on October 1, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast & transfer to LAX

Early breakfast and transfer to the airport for a morning flight to San Francisco (SFO or Oakland) — flight ~1.25 hours.
USD15, 0h45m.

9:30am

Flight to San Francisco, CA

Short domestic flight arriving mid-morning; transfer to downtown or Fisherman's Wharf depending on plans.
USD80, 1h15m.

11:30am

Lunch — Fisherman's Wharf clam chowder in a sourdough bowl

Classic San Francisco lunch and harbour views; many stands and restaurants open from late morning to evening.
USD20, 1h0m.

1:00pm

Alcatraz Island tour (booked in advance)

Ferries depart from Pier 33; tours run throughout the day but sell out — typical ferry times 9:00am–3:30pm depending on the slot.
USD45, 3h0m.

5:30pm

Walk Pier 39 & Ghirardelli Square

Evening stroll to enjoy sea-lion viewing areas and shops; most venues open until early evening/late evening depending on season.
USD0, 1h0m.

7:30pm

Dinner — North Beach (Italian) or Chinatown

Historic North Beach offers Italian dining and lively neighbourhood atmosphere; open late into the evening.
USD40, 1h15m.

Day 20: San Francisco & Departure

San Francisco, USA on October 2, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast — Tartine Bakery or local café

Famous bakery for excellent pastries and coffee; opens early and is a great start before a half-day of sightseeing or airport transfer.
USD15, 0h45m.

8:30am

Golden Gate Bridge viewpoint & short walk

Visit the bridge viewpoints at Battery Spencer or Fort Point for morning light; public areas open at all hours but visitor centres may open later.
USD0, 1h0m.

10:00am

Exploratorium or SFMOMA (if time permits)

Choose based on preference: science and interactive exhibits at the Exploratorium or modern art at SFMOMA; check opening hours—typically 10:00am.
USD30, 2h0m.

12:30pm

Lunch — Ferry Building Marketplace

Artisan food stalls and scenic views of the Bay; many vendors open midday for a high-quality last lunch in the city.
USD25, 1h0m.

2:00pm

Return to hotel & transfer to SFO for departure

Collect luggage and head to the airport allowing 2–3 hours for international departures; check-in counters may open 3 hours prior to flight time.
USD0, 2h0m.

5:00pm

Departure flight

Board your flight home or onward — confirm terminal and boarding time with your airline and allow time for security.
USD0, 0h0m.
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