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USA Holiday Loop: New York City → Las Vegas → Los Angeles Road Trip → Washington DC (29 Dec 2025 – 14 Jan 2026)

Viewed by 141 travelers

Day 1: Arrival & Orientation

New York City, USA on December 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Balthazar (SoHo)

Classic French bistro breakfast to recover from travel; excellent pastries and eggs in a bustling SoHo setting. Good for people-watching and energising for a full day of sightseeing.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Walk through Central Park & Bethesda Terrace

Stroll the famous park paths, see Bow Bridge and Bethesda Terrace — peaceful and iconic; great introduction to NYC's outdoor heart. Park open daily, sunrise–sunset (check seasonal sunset times).
USD0, 1h30m

11:30am

Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art

One of the world’s largest art museums; see Egyptian, European and American highlights. Typical hours 10:00am–5:00pm (check for holiday hours on 29 Dec).
USD30, 2h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Katz's Delicatessen (Lower East Side)

Iconic pastrami sandwich shop—big portions and NYC deli culture. Expect queues but fast turnover; open 24/7 historically but check seasonal hours.
USD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Empire State Building or Top of the Rock (choose one)

Panoramic skyline views—Empire State open 8:00am–2:00am; Top of the Rock open ~9:00am–11:00pm; Top of the Rock gives great Central Park views, Empire State is classic.
USD44, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Keens Steakhouse

Historic NYC steakhouse with strong holiday atmosphere — excellent for a hearty welcome dinner and famous mutton chop. Reservations recommended.
USD60, 1h30m

9:30pm

Times Square & Night Walk

Bright lights, street performers and big-city energy; open 24/7 and perfect for a late evening introduction to NYC nightlife.
USD0, 1h0m

Day 2: Museum & Midtown

New York City, USA on December 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Ess-a-Bagel

A classic New York bagel with schmear—a fast, local-feel breakfast to fuel a busy museum day.
USD8, 30m

9:30am

American Museum of Natural History

Dinosaur halls, planetarium (Rose Center) and cultural exhibitions; great for curiosity and immersive displays. Typically open 10:00am–5:30pm (check holiday hours).
USD23, 2h30m

12:30pm

Lunch at Shake Shack (Upper West Side)

Modern American burgers and shakes; quick, reliably tasty and close to the museum.
USD18, 1h0m

2:00pm

Stroll Fifth Avenue & Rockefeller Centre

Window shopping, holiday displays and the Rockefeller Christmas tree if still illuminated; skating rink available seasonally (rink hours vary).
USD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

MoMA (Museum of Modern Art)

Modern and contemporary art highlights including Van Gogh and Warhol; opens ~10:30am–5:30pm (check for holiday extensions).
USD25, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner & Jazz at Blue Note (Greenwich Village)

Combine dinner with a live jazz set in an iconic club — book tickets in advance; doors usually evening onward.
USD70, 2h0m

10:30pm

Late drinks in the West Village

Explore neighbourhood bars for craft cocktails and the NYC night vibe; many bars open until late.
USD20, 1h30m

Day 3: NYC New Year's Eve

New York City, USA on December 31, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Clinton St. Baking Company

Famous pancakes and brunch classics—arrive early for shorter waits; great for a relaxed morning before big-night plans.
USD18, 1h0m

10:00am

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island (ferry)

Iconic American landmarks; ferries typically run from 9:00am to mid-afternoon—book tickets early as holiday slots sell fast.
USD24, 3h0m

2:00pm

Lunch at Eataly NYC Flatiron

Italian marketplaces with many counters—good mid-afternoon stop with high-quality, diverse options.
USD25, 1h0m

4:00pm

Return to hotel & rest

Recharge for New Year’s Eve festivities and freshen up; many hotels will offer concierge tips for tonight.
USD0, 2h0m

8:00pm

New Year’s Eve Dinner at The Modern or Reservation-only event

Fine dining with special NYE menus—expect set menus and advance reservations; many restaurants have late seating and parties that continue past midnight.
USD150, 3h0m

11:00pm

Times Square Ball Drop (or rooftop party)

Times Square is the classic NYE experience (very crowded and often closed to new arrivals by late evening) — alternative is a paid rooftop party with views and fewer crowds.
USD0, 2h0m

Day 4: Recovery & Highlights

New York City, USA on January 1, 2026

9:00am

Brunch at Sarabeth's

Popular brunch spot ideal for a New Year's Day late start; reservations recommended as it’s busy on holidays.
USD30, 1h30m

11:00am

Walk the High Line & Chelsea Market

Elevated urban park with skyline and Hudson River views; Chelsea Market is an indoor food hall great for sampling local foods. High Line open 7:00am–11:00pm; Chelsea Market hours vary (typically 10:00am–8:00pm).
USD0, 1h30m

1:30pm

Lunch at Los Tacos No.1 (Chelsea)

Authentic, quick tacos—perfect for a casual afternoon bite in the market.
USD12, 45m

3:00pm

One World Observatory & 9/11 Memorial

Panoramic city views and a sobering memorial experience; Observatory usually open 9:00am–9:00pm (check holiday hours).
USD43, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Carmine's (theatre district, family-style)

Family-style Italian dining—great for groups and hearty portions after a day of walking.
USD45, 1h30m

9:00pm

Broadway Show (book in advance)

Catch a top show in the Theatre District—matinee/ evening schedules vary, check exact performance times and holiday runs.
USD90, 2h30m

Day 5: Fly to Las Vegas

New York City → Las Vegas, USA on January 2, 2026

7:00am

Early breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Quick breakfast and airport transfer; aim to arrive 2 hours before domestic flights. Many NYC cafés open early.
USD12, 45m

9:00am

Flight JFK/LGA/EWR → LAS

Non-stop flights take ~5–6 hours; you'll cross time zones and arrive same day local time. Book a mid-morning flight to land in Vegas afternoon.
USD200, 6h0m

3:00pm

Check in & relax on the Las Vegas Strip

Arrive at your Strip hotel, explore iconic casinos and resorts; casinos and many attractions operate 24/7, though check show times.
USD0, 1h30m

5:00pm

High Roller Observation Wheel (LINQ)

360-degree views over the Strip; open typically 11:30am–2:00am but seasonal hours vary—book sunset rotation for best photos.
USD28, 30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Hell's Kitchen (Caesars Palace)

Gordon Ramsay’s Hell's Kitchen delivers theatre and high-energy dining on the Strip—book ahead for peak nights.
USD60, 1h30m

10:00pm

Casino time & nightlife (Omnia or XS)

Play slots or table games and then head to a major nightclub—clubs open late and often have headline DJs; check event schedules and cover charges.
USD50, 3h0m

Day 6: Vegas Shows & Adventure

Las Vegas, USA on January 3, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at The Henry (Cosmopolitan)

All-day diner with quality breakfasts—great pre-activity meal before outdoor excursions.
USD18, 1h0m

10:00am

Red Rock Canyon Scenic Drive

Short drive west of the Strip with striking sandstone formations and hiking opportunities; visitor centre typically 8:00am–4:30pm (park open sunrise–sunset).
USD15, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Esther's Kitchen (Downtown/Arts District)

Popular modern Italian with seasonal produce—good relaxed midday option away from the Strip.
USD30, 1h0m

3:30pm

Fremont Street Experience

Historic downtown Vegas with LED canopy shows, zipline (SlotZilla) and street performers — SlotZilla runs daytime/evening; canopy shows nightly.
USD0, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner buffet at Bellagio or Wynn

Iconic Vegas buffets offer variety and quality—perfect for sampling many flavours in one meal. Check hours; many close around 8–10pm on weekdays.
USD55, 1h30m

9:30pm

Cirque du Soleil show (e.g., O, Mystère)

World-class production unique to Vegas—advance tickets essential. Typical showtime 7:00–10:00pm depending on performance.
USD120, 1h45m

Day 7: Vegas Adventure

Las Vegas, USA on January 4, 2026

7:30am

Helicopter Tour of the Grand Canyon (optional)

Half-day aerial tour departs early from Vegas to the Grand Canyon West—the ultimate adventure; tours run morning and afternoon, check operator times and weather.
USD300, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Mon Ami Gabi (Paris Las Vegas)

Terrace dining with views of the Bellagio fountains; good for a relaxed midday meal.
USD35, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore The Venetian & Gondola Ride

Stroll canals and take a gondola for a classic Vegas romantic experience; gondolas run all day—book a slot for the afternoon or evening.
USD34, 30m

4:00pm

Shopping at Forum Shops (Caesars) or Fashion Show Mall

High-end and outlet shopping across the Strip for souvenirs and designer finds.
USD0, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Momofuku (The Cosmopolitan)

Trendy Asian-inspired tasting menu and small plates—great for adventurous foodies.
USD65, 1h30m

10:00pm

Nightclub or Late Casino Play

Return to the casino floor or experience a Strip club night—Vegas nightlife peaks late; check guest lists and door policies.
USD50, 3h0m

Day 8: Final Vegas Day

Las Vegas, USA on January 5, 2026

9:00am

Breakfast at The Buffet or local café

Fuel up for a day of leisure or last-minute shows; many hotel cafés open early.
USD25, 1h0m

10:30am

Visit Neon Museum (Boneyard)

Collections of historic Las Vegas signs—guided tours typically run throughout the day; book ahead as slots fill on busy dates.
USD22, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Carson Kitchen (Downtown)

Trendy local spot with creative American dishes—good stop for a final local taste before a road trip.
USD25, 1h0m

3:00pm

Spa or pool time at your resort

Relax and prepare for the road trip — many resorts have excellent spas and heated pools even in winter; check spa hours and openings.
USD80, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at Top of the World (Stratosphere) or upscale Strip restaurant

Dinner with panoramic views to close out your Vegas stay—reserve a window table for the best experience.
USD70, 1h30m

Day 9: Prep for Road Trip

Las Vegas, USA on January 6, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast and final shopping on the Strip

Quick breakfast and pick up any last supplies or snacks for the drive—many convenience stores and delis available.
USD15, 45m

9:30am

Seven Magic Mountains photo stop

Large-scale colourful desert art installation south of Las Vegas—open outdoors, great quick photo op before leaving Nevada.
USD0, 45m

11:00am

Drive briefing & car pickup

Collect your rental car (prefer AWD for winter desert roads if needed), check navigation, and stock water—aim to depart mid-day the following day.
USD0, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at In-N-Out or local burger spot

A fast and distinctly West Coast burger experience—quick, tasty and cheap before travel.
USD12, 45m

3:00pm

Optional helicopter/experience or relax

Use remaining time for any missed attractions or final casino time; keep evening light to rest for the road trip start tomorrow.
USD0, 3h0m

7:00pm

Early dinner and pack

Dinner near hotel and early night; check car pick-up location and road conditions for tomorrow’s drive to Joshua Tree / Palm Springs.
USD30, 1h0m

Day 10: Drive to Joshua Tree

Las Vegas → Joshua Tree NP → Palm Springs, USA on January 7, 2026

7:00am

Early breakfast & depart Las Vegas

Fuel up and leave the Strip north-south via I-15 and CA-62 toward Joshua Tree; the drive takes ~3–4 hours depending on stops.
USD15, 1h0m

11:00am

Explore Joshua Tree National Park

Unique desert ecosystem with famous twisted Joshua trees and climbing boulders; park open sunrise–sunset with a vehicle entrance fee—great for hikes and photo ops.
USD30, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch in Joshua Tree village (Pappy & Harriet's if open)

Local favourite with live music nights and hearty fare—check seasonal hours (Pappy & Harriet's often closed Mon/Tue).
USD25, 1h0m

4:00pm

Drive to Palm Springs & check-in

Short drive to Palm Springs for mid-century modern architecture, poolside downtime and desert resort ambience.
USD0, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Workshop Kitchen + Bar (Palm Springs)

Seasonal, farm-driven menu in a stylish setting—great for a quality evening meal after a day outdoors.
USD55, 1h30m

9:30pm

Optional evening at local casino (Agua Caliente)

Casino located in Palm Springs with gaming and nightlife options—open late; good to sample desert casino culture outside Vegas.
USD20, 2h0m

Day 11: Palm Springs → Temecula → LA

Palm Springs → Temecula → Los Angeles, USA on January 8, 2026

8:00am

Palm Springs Aerial Tramway

Ride up to cooler mountain trails and dramatic views; tram hours often start ~10:00am in low season—check exact opening time before you go.
USD28, 2h0m

11:30am

Drive to Temecula Wine Country

Scenic drive west to Temecula for wine tastings and vineyards—many tasting rooms open 11:00am–5:00pm (check individual wineries).
USD20, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch & wine tasting at a Temecula vineyard

Combine a tasting flight with a vineyard lunch; reservations recommended for weekend/hotel-season dates.
USD45, 1h30m

3:30pm

Drive to Los Angeles & check in

Finish the drive into Los Angeles, traffic permitting—aim to arrive before evening to enjoy nightlife in West Hollywood or Santa Monica.
USD0, 2h0m

7:30pm

Dinner in Santa Monica (The Misfit or The Bungalow)

Seaside dining and lively nightlife on the coast—enjoy seafood or Californian small plates with ocean breezes.
USD50, 1h30m

10:00pm

Evening walk on Santa Monica Pier

Iconic pier with lights and the Ferris wheel—relaxed evening vibe and photogenic views. Pier open into the night; ride hours vary.
USD0, 1h0m

Day 12: Los Angeles Highlights

Los Angeles, USA on January 9, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at Republique

Trendy French-inspired breakfast in a striking space—great start for a full day exploring LA.
USD22, 1h0m

9:30am

Griffith Observatory & Griffith Park

View of the Hollywood sign, great skyline panoramas and space exhibits; Observatory typically open 10:00am–10:00pm but grounds are accessible earlier.
USD0, 1h30m

11:30am

Walk Hollywood Walk of Fame & TCL Chinese Theatre

Classic Hollywood tourist stops—handprints at the Chinese Theatre and the Walk of Fame are free to view.
USD0, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at In-N-Out (or a healthy LA spot like Gracias Madre)

Sample a West Coast fast-food staple or choose a healthy vegan Californian lunch—LA covers both extremes superbly.
USD15, 1h0m

2:30pm

Venice Beach Boardwalk & Abbot Kinney

Eclectic street performers, muscle beach and boutique shopping on Abbot Kinney—open all day and lively in the afternoon.
USD0, 1h30m

6:30pm

Dinner in West Hollywood (Saddle Peak Lodge or Catch LA)

Fancy evening meal with LA celebrity dining vibes—book ahead for prime tables.
USD75, 1h30m

9:30pm

Hollywood nightlife—bar hop or comedy show

Choose rooftop bars, live music, or a comedy club for late-night entertainment; shows often start 9:00–10:30pm.
USD30, 2h0m

Day 13: Theme Park & Culture

Los Angeles, USA on January 10, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or local café

Quick morning meal before a full day at Universal Studios or Disneyland; park days are long so start early.
USD12, 30m

9:00am

Universal Studios Hollywood (or Disneyland)

Major theme-park adventure with rides, shows and film-studio tours; gates usually open around 9:00am—buy express or park-hopper passes to save queue time.
USD139, 8h0m

1:00pm

Lunch inside the park (various options)

Quick-service and themed restaurants inside the park—midday dining keeps you on the go between attractions.
USD20, 45m

6:30pm

Return to hotel & freshen up

Relax after a long park day — evening free for light dining or a rooftop drink.
USD0, 1h0m

8:00pm

Dinner at Koreatown (KBBQ) or LA rooftop bar

LA’s Koreatown is lively with 24-hour options and great late-night barbecue—perfect after a full day; rooftop bars offer scenic city views.
USD40, 1h30m

Day 14: LA Culture & Departure Prep

Los Angeles, USA on January 11, 2026

8:30am

Breakfast at Sqirl or local favourite

Popular LA breakfast spot known for inventive toasts and preserves—expect a short queue but excellent food.
USD18, 1h0m

10:00am

Visit The Getty Center

Art, architecture and gardens with spectacular city views—museum hours usually 10:00am–5:30pm; the tram ride and hilltop setting are highlights.
USD0, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Malibu Farm (if driving the coast) or local LA seafood

If you choose a scenic Pacific Coast drive, stop for beachfront dining; otherwise enjoy fresh local seafood within the city.
USD35, 1h0m

3:00pm

Beverly Hills walk & Rodeo Drive window shopping

Glamorous shopping district and celebrity-spotting potential; good for strolling and photos.
USD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Providence or local LA hotspot

Finish your LA stay with a memorable dinner—fine dining reservations recommended to cap the road trip.
USD90, 1h45m

9:30pm

Pack & rest for next-day flight to New York

Final check of documents, car return arrangements and a good night’s sleep before your cross-country flight.
USD0, 1h0m

Day 15: Fly to New York

Los Angeles → New York City, USA on January 12, 2026

7:00am

Early breakfast & hotel check-out

Light breakfast and airport transfer; allow 2–3 hours for domestic check-in and security for busy cross-country flights.
USD15, 45m

9:30am

Flight LAX → JFK/LGA/EWR

Non-stop flight ~5–6 hours across time zones—arrive in NYC by late afternoon/evening local time; evening arrival gives time to settle in.
USD200, 6h0m

5:00pm

Arrive & check into NYC hotel

Relax and get a feel for your old/new neighbourhood—you'll be based in NYC for the following DC trip.
USD0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner at a neighbourhood favourite (e.g., Peter Luger or Le Bernardin if special)

Re-immerse yourself in NYC food culture with steakhouse or high-end seafood; book in advance for busy restaurants.
USD120, 1h30m

10:00pm

Evening walk or rooftop drink

Quiet night to rest before the Washington DC rail trip; rooftop bars around Midtown or Lower Manhattan offer night views.
USD25, 1h0m

Day 16: Train to Washington DC

New York City → Washington DC, USA on January 13, 2026

7:30am

Breakfast & transfer to Penn Station

Grab coffee and breakfast then head to Penn Station for the Amtrak Acela/Northeast Regional—book early for best fares and reserved seats.
USD15, 45m

9:00am

Amtrak to Washington DC (Union Station)

Comfortable 3–3.5 hour trip on Amtrak Northeast Regional or faster Acela; trains run frequently throughout the day.
USD130, 3h30m

12:30pm

Lunch near the National Mall

Many cafes and kiosks around the Mall and Smithsonian museums—quick options let you maximise museum time.
USD18, 1h0m

1:30pm

Smithsonian Museums (Air & Space and National Museum of American History)

World-class free museums; typical hours 10:00am–5:30pm (check special holiday hours). Great for culture, science and US history enthusiasts.
USD0, 3h0m

5:00pm

Walk the National Mall & Monument views at dusk

View Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool—especially atmospheric at sunset.
USD0, 1h0m

7:30pm

Dinner in Penn Quarter (Zaytinya or Clyde’s)

Vibrant dining district with reliable options and contemporary menus—good for a comfortable evening meal.
USD45, 1h30m

9:30pm

Nightcap in Georgetown

Walk historic Georgetown for riverside bars and late-night cafés; good relaxed end to day one in DC.
USD20, 1h0m

Day 17: DC Sights & Return

Washington DC → New York City, USA on January 14, 2026

8:00am

Breakfast near hotel

Quick local breakfast before a packed day of memorials and Capitol visits.
USD12, 45m

9:00am

U.S. Capitol & Supreme Court (exterior) and Library of Congress

View the seat of US government; public tours of the Capitol require advance passes—Library of Congress open 8:30am–4:30pm typically.
USD0, 1h30m

11:00am

Arlington National Cemetery

Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and JFK grave—open daily with visitor centre hours approx 8:00am–5:00pm; check seasonal times.
USD0, 1h30m

1:00pm

Lunch in Capitol Hill or Eastern Market

Local eateries and market stalls offering fresh, seasonal fare—good for sampling DC neighbourhood food culture.
USD20, 1h0m

2:30pm

National Portrait Gallery or International Spy Museum

Portrait Gallery offers American portraiture; Spy Museum (paid) is interactive and fun—both open into the evening, check hours.
USD25, 1h30m

5:00pm

Amtrak return to New York

Evening train back to NYC—book a comfortable departure to arrive in New York late evening. Northeast Regional takes ~3–3.5 hours.
USD130, 3h30m

9:30pm

Arrive NYC & end of DC loop

Return to your New York hotel; final night to reflect on a packed cross-country holiday and prepare for onward plans.
USD0, 0h30m
0
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