Elevated park walk with art and city views, then Chelsea Market for food stalls and local shops; High Line open typically 7:00am–10:00pm, Chelsea Market ~10:00am–9:00pm.
Choose Top of the Rock (opens ~10:00am) for great Central Park views or Empire State (opens ~11:00am) for Midtown skyline; book tickets in advance to avoid queues.
Ferry from Battery Park to Liberty Island and Ellis Island to visit the statue and immigration museum; first ferries usually around 8:30am and last returns mid‑afternoon so book the early slot (allow 3–4 hours).
See window displays and the Rockefeller Christmas tree; Rockefeller Plaza skating rink often open (hours vary), and Top of the Rock can be revisited for skyline views.
If you plan Times Square, be aware of long security queues and early arrival; rooftop bars and private parties are a safer, warmer alternative — check closing times (NYE events vary greatly).
Arrive and settle at a Strip hotel (Bellagio, Caesars, Wynn or similar) — take time to walk the casino floors and see the Bellagio fountains (shows evening every 15–30 minutes).
Early departure for a Grand Canyon West or South Rim experience; helicopter tours depart early (check operator times) and last ~4–6 hours, bus/coach tours take longer (10+ hours).
If you choose to detour south via 62, visit Joshua Tree for short hikes and unique Joshua trees; visitor centre hours typically 8:00am–5:00pm — allow 1–3 hours.
Settle into an LA neighbourhood (Hollywood, West Hollywood, Santa Monica) depending on your priorities; evening traffic can add time, so plan arrival accordingly.
Hike up to Griffith Observatory for iconic views of the Hollywood Sign and Los Angeles; Observatory hours typically 12:00pm–10:00pm on weekdays (check weekend hours) and grounds are open earlier for hikes.
Guided tours of the Capitol require advance passes for access; exterior and visitor centre open daily with varying hours (book ahead if you want the interior tour).
Photo stop and short walk; public tours of the interior require advance security requests well in advance, but the exterior and nearby parks are open to the public.
Pick a museum you missed on Day 16 — Smithsonian museums are free and open typically until 5:30pm; National Gallery hours may extend later (check ahead).