Start your journey at Wellington International Airport, where you'll clear security and admire the iconic Gollum sculpture before boarding your trans-Pacific flight. Settle into your seat and catch a final glimpse of the Cook Strait from the air as you begin the first leg of your North American adventure.
After touching down at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), you'll clear customs and catch a glimpse of the iconic mid-century Theme Building while heading toward the city center. Once settled at your hotel, shake off the jet lag with a visit to the OUE Skyspace LA to enjoy sweeping views of the California coastline and downtown skyline from 1,000 feet up.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through Grand Park to admire the illuminated Arthur J. Will Memorial Fountain before heading to the historic Grand Central Market for a diverse culinary dinner. Cap off your first night with a quick ride on the iconic [Angels Flight Railway](https://www.angelsflight.org/) to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of downtown Los Angeles under the city lights.
Kick off your second day in the City of Angels by strolling along the legendary [Hollywood Walk of Fame](https://walkoffame.com/), where you can search for the brass stars of your favorite entertainers. Continue to the historic TCL Chinese Theatre to marvel at the concrete handprints and footprints of film legends before heading up the hill to capture the perfect photo of the Hollywood Sign from the viewing decks at Ovation Hollywood.
Head west toward the coast to experience the nostalgic charm of the [Santa Monica Pier](https://www.santamonicapier.org/), where you can ride the iconic solar-powered Ferris wheel at Pacific Park. Afterward, enjoy a refreshing sea breeze while walking along the scenic bluff at Palisades Park or browse the trendy boutiques and street performer displays at the lively [Third Street Promenade](https://www.downtownsm.com/).
As twilight settles, ascend to the Griffith Observatory to witness the city's sprawl transform into a glittering carpet of lights and gaze through the historic Zeiss Telescope. Conclude your evening with a stroll through the enchanting Urban Light sculpture at LACMA, where over two hundred glowing vintage streetlamps provide a quintessential Los Angeles nightcap.
Begin your morning by riding the electric tram up to [The Getty Center](https://www.getty.edu/visit/center/), where you can explore a world-class collection of European paintings and decorative arts within its stunning travertine architecture. Wander through the meticulously designed Central Garden, a living work of art featuring a floating maze of azaleas and seasonal blooms. Don't miss the sweeping panoramic views of the Los Angeles basin stretching toward the Pacific Ocean from the museum's scenic outdoor sculptures and balconies.
Continue your cultural exploration at the [Academy Museum of Motion Pictures](https://www.academymuseum.org/en/tickets), where you can immerse yourself in the magic of filmmaking through interactive exhibits and iconic movie memorabilia. Just a short walk away, discover the unique prehistoric landscape of the [La Brea Tar Pits](https://www.google.com/search?q=La+Brea+Tar+Pits+Leave+Wellington+nz.++Must+visit+Montr%C3%A9al+and+Toronto+with+a+top+over+somewhere+in+America+for+a+few+days+official+site), where you can see active excavation sites and learn about the ancient creatures that once roamed the Los Angeles Basin.
Spend your final Los Angeles evening marveling at the undulating stainless steel of the [Walt Disney Concert Hall](https://www.google.com/search?q=Walt+Disney+Concert+Hall+Leave+Wellington+nz.++Must+visit+Montr%C3%A9al+and+Toronto+with+a+top+over+somewhere+in+America+for+a+few+days+official+site) before visiting the contemporary art exhibits at [The Broad](https://www.google.com/search?q=The+Broad+Leave+Wellington+nz.++Must+visit+Montr%C3%A9al+and+Toronto+with+a+top+over+somewhere+in+America+for+a+few+days+official+site). Afterward, immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Little Tokyo to explore the glowing Japanese Village Plaza and enjoy an authentic Japanese dinner to toast the end of your California stay.
Start your travel day by heading to the bustling Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to board your flight across the continent toward the French-speaking heart of Canada. As you soar over the landscape of North America, enjoy the anticipation of swapping the California sun for the wintry charm of Quebec, perhaps grabbing a final specialty coffee in the Tom Bradley International Terminal before departure.
Upon landing at Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport, make your way to the city center to settle into your accommodations and soak in the distinct French-Canadian atmosphere. Shake off the long flight with a visit to the [Place des Festivals](https://www.google.com/search?q=Place+des+Festivals+Leave+Wellington+nz.++Must+visit+Montr%C3%A9al+and+Toronto+with+a+top+over+somewhere+in+America+for+a+few+days+official+site), the cultural heart of the Quartier des Spectacles, which features interactive winter art installations and a vibrant urban energy.
As the evening sets in, wander through the historic cobblestone streets of Old Montréal to admire the stunning neo-Gothic facade of the [Notre-Dame Basilica of Montréal](https://www.basiliquenotredame.ca/en/plan-your-visit) illuminated against the night sky. Continue your walk toward the Old Port of Montréal, where you can take a ride on [La Grande Roue de Montréal](https://www.lagranderouedemontreal.com/en/tickets) for breathtaking views of the frozen Saint Lawrence River and the city's sparkling winter lights.
Begin your morning with a brisk ascent of Mount Royal Park, trekking through the snow-dusted trails designed by Frederick Law Olmsted to reach the famous Kondiaronk Lookout for a panoramic view of the Montreal skyline. Afterward, head into the trendy Plateau Mont-Royal neighborhood to experience a local culinary institution by sampling iconic wood-fired bagels at [St-Viateur Bagel Shop](https://www.google.com/search?q=St-Viateur+Bagel+Shop+Leave+Wellington+nz.++Must+visit+Montr%C3%A9al+and+Toronto+with+a+top+over+somewhere+in+America+for+a+few+days+official+site). Conclude your walk by admiring the colorful Victorian houses and frozen fountains of the picturesque Square Saint-Louis before the afternoon chill sets in.
After your morning trek, head to the world-famous [Schwartz's Deli](https://www.google.com/search?q=Schwartz%27s+Deli+Leave+Wellington+nz.++Must+visit+Montr%C3%A9al+and+Toronto+with+a+top+over+somewhere+in+America+for+a+few+days+official+site) to experience a quintessential Montreal lunch featuring their legendary spice-rubbed smoked meat stacked high on rye. Continue your culinary exploration at the [Jean-Talon Market](https://www.marchespublics-mtl.com/en/marches/jean-talon-market/) in the heart of Little Italy, where you can wander through aisles of local Quebecois cheeses, fresh regional produce, and artisanal maple products while soaking in the vibrant market atmosphere.
Spend your final full evening in Montreal experiencing the high-end culinary artistry of Toqué! in the International District, a pioneer of modern Quebecois gastronomy. Afterward, head to the top of the Place Ville Marie skyscraper for a nightcap at Les Enfants Terribles, where you can toast to your journey while enjoying 360-degree views of the city's glittering winter skyline.
Start the day by exploring the extensive galleries of the [Montreal Museum of Fine Arts](https://www.mbam.qc.ca/en/ticket-office/), world-renowned for its encyclopedic collection housed in a stunning mix of classical and modern pavilions. Afterward, descend into the RÉSO (Underground City) to navigate the world's largest subterranean pedestrian network, perfect for staying warm while grabbing a coffee before making your way to Gare Centrale to catch the VIA Rail train bound for Toronto.
After arriving at the grand Union Station, take a short stroll to the [Distillery District](https://www.thedistillerydistrict.com/) to explore the charming cobblestone streets and converted Victorian-era warehouses. Pause for a warm drink and artisanal treats at [Soma Chocolatemaker](https://www.somachocolate.com/) while browsing the various independent galleries and boutiques that make this historic neighborhood so unique.
Spend your first night in the provincial capital by ice skating under the illuminated arches of Nathan Phillips Square, right next to the iconic glowing Toronto Sign. Afterward, head into the vibrant Entertainment District for a sophisticated dinner before wandering through the neon-lit dazzle of [Yonge-Dundas Square](https://www.ydsquare.ca/) to experience the city's electric urban atmosphere.
Start your final morning with a breathtaking ascent up the [CN Tower](https://www.cntower.ca/plan-your-visit/tickets), where you can stand on the glass floor and look down upon the city from over 1,100 feet. Afterwards, head next door to navigate the mesmerizing underwater tunnels of [Ripley's Aquarium of Canada](https://www.ripleyaquariums.com/canada/tickets/) to see sharks and sea turtles gliding overhead. Conclude your morning with a brisk walk along the [Harbourfront Centre](https://harbourfrontcentre.com/), enjoying the crisp winter air and the scenic views of the frozen Lake Ontario shoreline.
Head to the historic [St. Lawrence Market](http://www.stlawrencemarket.com/) to sample a world-famous peameal bacon sandwich at Carousel Bakery while browsing the diverse stalls of artisanal foods and local crafts. Afterward, delve into Canadian sports history at the [Hockey Hall of Fame](https://www.google.com/search?q=Hockey+Hall+of+Fame+Leave+Wellington+nz.++Must+visit+Montr%C3%A9al+and+Toronto+with+a+top+over+somewhere+in+America+for+a+few+days+official+site), where you can stand within the grand Esso Great Hall to marvel at the legendary Stanley Cup.
Wrap up your Canadian journey with an eclectic dinner in the vibrant streets of Kensington Market, where you can savor diverse global flavors within its famous bohemian atmosphere. Afterward, enjoy a final stroll past the boutique shops of Queen Street West before concluding your adventure with a celebratory cocktail at the historic Fairmont Royal York as you prepare for your return flight home.