Family Reunion Road Trip: Las Vegas → Palm Springs → Los Angeles (Last Week of December)

Day 1: Arrival in Las Vegas & Welcome

Morning: The group lands at McCarran International Airport, collects a 10‑person rental van, and checks into a centrally‑located hotel. After settling, enjoy a casual brunch at Eggslut on the Strip.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant Neon Museum, where iconic Las Vegas signs are displayed in an outdoor gallery—perfect for family photos. Afterwards, wander the artsy Fremont East District featuring street murals and boutique shops.

Evening: Gather for a welcome dinner at the family‑friendly Hash House A Go Go, followed by a relaxed stroll through the illuminated Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens.

Day 2: Nature & Engineering Highlights

Morning: Head out to Red Rock Canyon for easy hiking trails and panoramic desert vistas; the group can enjoy a guided nature walk.

Afternoon: Drive to the historic Hoover Dam, take the dam tour, and snap photos from the observation deck overlooking Lake Mead.

Evening: Return to Las Vegas for a group dinner at The Buffet at Wynn, then enjoy a family‑friendly magic show at the Mac King Comedy Magic Show.

Day 3: Drive to Palm Springs & City Exploration

Morning: Depart Las Vegas early; the scenic 4‑hour drive brings you to sunny Palm Springs. Check into a comfortable resort with a pool.

Afternoon: Ride the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to the San Jacinto Mountains for breathtaking views and a short nature walk at the top.

Evening: Explore downtown Palm Springs, stopping at the historic VillageFest market for local crafts and a casual dinner at Sherman's Deli.

Day 4: Joshua Tree National Park Adventure

Morning: Drive 45 minutes to Joshua Tree National Park; hike the Hidden Valley Trail and admire the iconic Joshua trees.

Afternoon: Continue exploring the park’s rock formations at Keys View for sweeping desert panoramas; picnic lunch in the park.

Evening: Return to Palm Springs for a relaxed evening by the resort pool and a group dinner at El Jefe featuring Mexican cuisine.

Day 5: Drive to Los Angeles & Iconic Views

Morning: Depart Palm Springs and enjoy the 2‑hour drive to Los Angeles; check into a hotel near Hollywood.

Afternoon: Visit the Griffith Observatory for spectacular city views and a short planetarium show; explore the nearby hiking trails.

Evening: Dine at the beachfront The Albright on Santa Monica Pier, then take a sunset walk along the pier and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Day 6: Culture & Hollywood Highlights

Morning: Tour the world‑class Getty Center, admiring art collections and stunning gardens; take advantage of the family audio guide.

Day 6 Continued

Afternoon: Stroll the Hollywood Walk of Fame, see the TCL Chinese Theatre’s handprints, and snap photos at the iconic Hollywood Sign viewpoint.

Evening: Conclude with a private family movie screening at the historic El Capitan Theatre followed by dessert at Pink’s Hot Dogs.

Day 7: Departure & Farewell

Morning: Spend a relaxed morning at Venice Beach, exploring the boardwalk, skate park, and Muscle Beach; optional bike ride along the beach path.

Afternoon: Return the rental van and head to LAX for flights back to NYC, with plenty of time for check‑in and farewells.

Evening: Arrive home with memories of a fun, non‑gaming family reunion.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Neon Museum – 2 hrs – $20 per person
• Red Rock Canyon – 3 hrs – $15 per vehicle
• Hoover Dam Tour – 2 hrs – $25 per person
• Bellagio Conservatory – 1 hr – Free
• Palm Springs Aerial Tramway – 2 hrs – $35 per person
• Joshua Tree National Park – 5 hrs – $30 per vehicle
• Griffith Observatory – 2 hrs – Free (parking $10)
• Getty Center – 3 hrs – Free (parking $20)
• Hollywood Walk of Fame – 2 hrs – Free
• El Capitan Theatre – 3 hrs – $30 per person (ticket)
• Venice Beach – 2 hrs – Free
• Rental Van (7 days) – 7 days – $1,200 total
• Accommodation (6 nights, 2 rooms) – $250 per night – $3,000 total
• Meals (average $40 per person per day) – 10 people × 7 days × $40 – $2,800 total

Total Estimated Cost: $10,485

Tips

To shorten the trip, consider skipping the Joshua Tree day and spending more time in Los Angeles, which reduces driving time and accommodation costs. For a longer stay, add an extra day in Palm Springs to explore the nearby desert art installations and enjoy a spa day at your resort, or extend into San Diego for beaches and the world‑renowned zoo.