13-Day New York, Washington DC, Niagara Falls, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and San Francisco Itinerary

Late Morning in Central Park

After checking in, start with Central Park and make your way to Bethesda Terrace and The Mall. This is an easy first taste of Manhattan: broad pedestrian paths, musicians, horse-carriage traffic, and classic skyline glimpses without committing to a packed schedule. Allow about 1½ hours, and wear comfortable shoes—the park is larger and hillier than it looks on a map. The nearest convenient subway access is around 59th Street–Columbus Circle or 72nd Street, depending on your hotel.

Afternoon at The Metropolitan Museum of Art

From the park, walk north and east toward The Metropolitan Museum of Art on Fifth Avenue—roughly 25–35 minutes from Bethesda Terrace—or take the M1, M2, M3, or M4 bus uptown. Spend about 2½ hours choosing a few galleries rather than trying to cover everything; the Egyptian, European painting, American Wing, and rooftop areas are especially rewarding. The museum is generally open 10:30am–5pm, with extended evening hours on some days, but confirm the November schedule and admission policy before going. Standard admission for visitors is typically around $30, with reduced rates for some guests.

Late Afternoon and Evening in Times Square

Walk south along Fifth Avenue or take the M1/M4 bus back toward the Upper East Side for Levain Bakery, where a warm, oversized chocolate-chip walnut cookie makes an excellent snack—expect about $6–10 and a short queue. Then continue downtown by subway or taxi to Times Square; allow roughly 25–35 minutes depending on traffic. Visit after dark, when the illuminated billboards are at their most dramatic, but keep bags zipped and step into a side street if the crowds become tiring. Finish with a classic slice at Joe’s Pizza Broadway in the Theater District, usually about $10–20 per person. It is casual, busy, and best treated as a quick standing or counter meal rather than a long dinner; check closing hours on the day, as they can vary.

Morning

Start at Brooklyn Bridge Park in DUMBO, ideally around 8:30–9:00am while the waterfront is still calm. Walk along the piers for some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and Jane’s Carousel; allow about an hour. The park is free and open early, and the easiest subway access is via York Street on the F train or High Street–Brooklyn Bridge on the A/C. From the park, walk uphill toward the Brooklyn side of the Brooklyn Bridge and cross to Lower Manhattan, taking roughly 45–60 minutes with photo stops. Stay in the pedestrian lane and keep to one side, as cyclists use the adjacent path.

Midday and Lunch

After reaching Manhattan, continue to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum in the Financial District. The memorial pools are free to visit and generally accessible throughout the day; reserve a timed museum ticket in advance, with admission usually around $30–35 and a visit taking close to two hours. The exhibits are emotionally intense, so leave yourself a little breathing room afterward. Walk a few blocks south to Fraunces Tavern for lunch in one of New York’s oldest surviving buildings. Expect about $30–50 per person, and try to arrive before the main lunch rush; the historic dining rooms and small museum upstairs make this more than a quick meal.

Late Afternoon and Evening

Head to Whitehall Terminal—about a 15-minute walk from Fraunces Tavern—for the free Staten Island Ferry. Boats normally run frequently, with the crossing taking around 25 minutes each way; stay outside on the outbound leg for open views of the harbor and Statue of Liberty, then return on the next boat. There is no ticket charge, but allow roughly 1½ hours for waiting and the round trip. Finish in the Lower East Side at Katz’s Delicatessen, reached by subway or a 20–25-minute walk from the terminal. Order the famous pastrami on rye, expect $25–40 per person, and keep the ticket you receive at the entrance—losing it can mean a charge. Katz’s is typically open late, but evenings are busy, so a slightly later dinner usually means a more manageable queue.

Late Morning at the United States Capitol

After arriving at Washington Union Station, walk about 15 minutes up Massachusetts Avenue NE toward Capitol Hill; rideshares are rarely worth it for this short trip. Aim for your reserved United States Capitol tour around 11:00am or noon, allowing roughly 90 minutes for security, the Visitor Center, the Rotunda, and the National Statuary Hall. Timed entry is strongly recommended and free, though availability can be limited; bring photo ID and avoid large bags. From the Capitol, stroll west along Pennsylvania Avenue SE and the National Mall toward the National Gallery of Art, about 20 minutes on foot.

Afternoon at the National Gallery of Art

Spend a couple of unhurried hours inside the National Gallery of Art, concentrating on the West Building’s European masterpieces and the East Building’s modern collection rather than trying to cover everything. Admission is free, and the galleries are generally open daily from 10:00am to 5:00pm, with later hours on some evenings—check the museum’s schedule before traveling. For lunch or a coffee break, the museum café is convenient, but save your main meal for Old Ebbitt Grill. A 15-minute walk northwest via Pennsylvania Avenue NW and 15th Street NW brings you downtown; if your legs are tired, the Archives–Navy Memorial or Federal Triangle Metro stations make an easy connection.

Late Afternoon and Evening Downtown

Have an early dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill, Washington’s classic, dark-wood downtown institution just south of the White House. Budget about $30–$50 per person before drinks and tip, and expect a wait unless you reserve ahead; oysters, crab cakes, and the burgers are dependable choices. Afterward, walk two minutes to Lafayette Square for the exterior view of the White House—the best unobstructed sightline is from the park’s south side, while the north side gives a quieter perspective toward St. John’s Church. From there, take a taxi or rideshare west along Constitution Avenue NW to the Lincoln Memorial rather than walking the full distance after dark. Allow about 90 minutes to see the memorial and Reflecting Pool illuminated; the monument grounds are open around the clock, and this is one of the city’s most rewarding nighttime views.

Late Afternoon at Niagara Falls State Park

After arriving and dropping your bags, head straight to Niagara Falls State Park on Goat Island. Allow roughly two hours for the main viewpoints: start at American Falls, continue toward Bridal Veil Falls, then follow the paths to Horseshoe Falls. The park is free and open year-round, though parking is typically around $10–$20 for the day; arriving by rideshare is easier than finding a space late in the afternoon. In November, sunset comes early—around 4:45pm—so keep the visit moving if you want daylight at all three falls.

Continue to Cave of the Winds, also on Goat Island, for about an hour. The experience normally involves descending close to Bridal Veil Falls, but seasonal operations can change, and the attraction may close or be modified in cold weather. Check the official schedule before leaving Washington and again after arrival. If it is operating, expect roughly $21–$25 per adult and plan to wear the supplied protective footwear; bring a dry layer because you will get thoroughly sprayed.

Early Evening Dinner and Illumination

Have dinner at Top of the Falls Restaurant, where large windows look toward Horseshoe Falls. It is a convenient choice because you can remain inside the park rather than losing time in transit; budget about $25–$45 per person before drinks and gratuity. Reserve ahead if possible, and confirm the November closing time, as seasonal hours can be shorter. After dinner, walk back toward the falls for the Illumination of Niagara Falls. The lights generally begin after dark and continue late into the night, with the exact schedule varying by season. Allow 45 minutes, and bring gloves and a warm, wind-resistant jacket—the mist and river breeze make the viewing areas feel considerably colder than the town.

Morning at Maid of the Mist

Start early at Niagara Falls State Park for Maid of the Mist, the classic boat ride beneath American Falls and Horseshoe Falls. In November, departures are seasonal and weather-dependent, so check the official schedule before leaving; allow about 1½ hours including boarding and changing into the provided rain gear. Boats can sell out on clear days, and the deck is genuinely wet even with the poncho, so wear warm layers, grippy shoes, and keep phones in a waterproof pouch. Afterward, walk a section of the Niagara Gorge Trail above the river—choose the viewpoints that are open, since ice and wind can lead to temporary closures. The paths are free, while the boat ride is typically about $30–$40 for adults.

Early Afternoon in Downtown Niagara Falls

Head toward Old Falls Street, the pedestrian promenade linking the park with the downtown visitor area. It is quieter in November than in summer, but it is a convenient 45-minute wander for local shops, public art, and a warm-up stop. For lunch, continue to Anchor Bar in downtown Niagara Falls, the local outpost of the Buffalo restaurant credited with inventing Buffalo wings. Expect roughly $20–$35 per person; service can be relaxed, so allow an hour rather than rushing. The restaurant is walkable from the park, but a short rideshare is sensible if the weather is poor.

Afternoon at Whirlpool State Park and Power Vista

After lunch, take a rideshare or taxi north along the Niagara River to Whirlpool State Park—about 15–20 minutes, depending on traffic. The overlook shows the river twisting into its whirlpool and is especially dramatic when the water is fast; stay behind the railings and use caution on damp or icy paths. Continue a few minutes to the New York Power Authority Power Vista in Lewiston, an informative indoor stop with large windows, exhibits, and views explaining how the Niagara River produces hydroelectric power. Check its November hours before setting out, as seasonal schedules can be limited; admission is generally free, and the building is a useful place to warm up before returning to Niagara Falls. Expect a taxi or rideshare back to your hotel to take around 25–35 minutes.

Afternoon Arrival and Check-in

After your morning flight from Buffalo Niagara International Airport, expect to reach Harry Reid International Airport in the afternoon, with the time-zone change giving you a little extra daylight. A taxi or rideshare to a Strip hotel usually takes 15–25 minutes, though traffic can add time; allow longer if you are checking luggage. After checking in, keep the first outing easy and head to the Bellagio Conservatory & Botanical Gardens, an indoor, free attraction just off the Strip. The seasonal display changes throughout the year and takes about an hour to see comfortably. It is open 24 hours, making it a useful stop even if your arrival runs late.

Evening on the Strip

Walk through Bellagio toward the lake for the Fountains of Bellagio after dark. Shows generally run every 30 minutes in the afternoon and early evening, then every 15 minutes later at night, but schedules can change for weather or special events; check the day’s timetable on the official Bellagio website. Arrive 10–15 minutes early for a place along the railing, and remember that the Strip distances look deceptively short—crosswalks and casino entrances can make a 10-minute map walk take closer to 20 minutes.

Dinner and Late Evening

For dinner, continue across to Paris Las Vegas and reserve a table at Mon Ami Gabi, preferably on the terrace or by a window for views toward the fountains. Allow about 90 minutes, with dinner typically costing $50–80 per person before drinks and gratuity. Afterwards, walk north along the Strip, or take a rideshare if your legs are tired, to The Venetian Grand Canal Shoppes. The indoor canals, painted ceilings, and elaborate Italianate architecture are especially pleasant at night, and most shops are open until around 9–10pm. Keep the evening unhurried—after a cross-country travel day, browsing the mall and returning to your hotel is more enjoyable than trying to add another show.

Morning

Begin in Downtown Las Vegas around 9:30am at The Mob Museum, housed in the former federal courthouse and post office on Stewart Avenue. Give it about two hours; the exhibits on Prohibition, organized crime, and law enforcement are unusually engaging, with plenty of interactive displays. General admission is typically around $35–$45, and opening times can vary, so reserve a timed entry online. From here, walk roughly 10 minutes west to the Fremont Street Experience. Spend an hour wandering beneath the enormous LED canopy, taking in the old casino façades and street performers; daytime is quieter than the evening, but it lets you appreciate the architecture without the crowds.

Lunch and Afternoon

For lunch, stop at Evel Knievel’s Bar at the Golden Nugget, just off Fremont Street. It is a compact, characterful place for a drink and casual food inside the historic casino complex; allow about an hour and budget roughly $20–$40 per person. Then take a short rideshare—about 10 minutes, depending on traffic—to the Arts District, centered around Main Street and Charleston Boulevard. Browse murals, small galleries, vintage shops, and independent businesses for about 90 minutes. This is a good stretch of the day to wander rather than chase a checklist; many shops open around 11am or noon, while galleries may keep shorter hours.

Late Afternoon and Evening

Head to Wynn Las Vegas by rideshare, allowing 15–20 minutes from the Arts District. Spend an hour exploring the resort’s public gardens, floral displays, and polished interiors; there is no admission charge, though the casino floor is adults-only. Allow extra time to cross the Strip and find the theater at Bellagio, where “O” by Cirque du Soleil begins in the evening. Arrive at least 30–45 minutes early for security, seating, and a drink—the production lasts about 2.5 hours, and tickets commonly range from $130 to $250 or more depending on date and section. Afterward, use a rideshare rather than trying to walk the full Strip at night; Las Vegas distances are deceptive, and resort entrances often add several minutes to every transfer.

Morning at Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area

Pick up a rental car or arrange a rideshare with a return plan, and leave the Strip around 7:30–8:00am for Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area—about 25–35 minutes west, depending on traffic. Reserve the timed entry required for the scenic drive in advance through the official recreation website; November mornings are cool, often around 45–60°F, so bring a light layer and water. Spend roughly three hours driving the 13-mile scenic loop, stopping at viewpoints such as High Point Overlook and taking a short walk near Calico Hills. Stay on marked trails and allow extra time for photographs; the red sandstone is especially beautiful in the low morning light.

Lunch at Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge

Return toward the Strip and have lunch at Peppermill Restaurant and Fireside Lounge on Las Vegas Boulevard, usually about 25–35 minutes from Red Rock Canyon. This is a classic, generous Las Vegas diner: omelets, burgers, sandwiches, and large salads generally run about $20–40 per person. Leave time to sit in the famous Fireside Lounge, where the glowing firepit, neon, and blue-colored water make even a quick drink feel very Vegas. After lunch, a taxi or rideshare to AREA15 takes roughly 10–20 minutes, though westbound traffic can be slow in the afternoon.

Afternoon at AREA15 and Las Vegas North Premium Outlets

Spend about two hours at AREA15, an indoor arts and entertainment complex with immersive installations, unusual shops, and ticketed experiences. Book individual attractions ahead—availability and pricing vary, and entry to the complex is not the same as admission to every installation. Comfortable shoes are useful, and the environment is deliberately loud and visually intense. From there, continue to Las Vegas North Premium Outlets, about 10–15 minutes by car or rideshare, for a relaxed late-afternoon browse. It is mostly indoors and air-conditioned, with major brands and frequent discounts; allow around 90 minutes, but skip it if shopping is not a priority.

Evening at High Roller Observation Wheel and The Chandelier

Head to The LINQ Promenade for the High Roller Observation Wheel, ideally around sunset or just after dark. A complete rotation takes about 30 minutes, but allow an hour for walking, boarding, and possible queues; online tickets are often cheaper than walk-up prices, commonly around $25–45 depending on the time and package. Afterward, walk to The Cosmopolitan and finish at The Chandelier, the multi-level cocktail lounge built around a spectacular illuminated crystal curtain. Dress smart-casual, and expect cocktails to cost roughly $20–40; the middle level is the liveliest, while the upper level is better for a quieter final drink.

Morning

Take a morning nonstop flight from Harry Reid International Airport to Hollywood Burbank Airport if possible; it is generally the easier arrival for this plan, though Los Angeles International Airport offers more flight choices. Allow generous time for the airport and traffic, then expect roughly 30–45 minutes by rideshare from Burbank to Santa Monica (considerably longer from LAX). After dropping bags, head straight to Santa Monica Pier for about 1½ hours: walk to the end for the broadest Pacific views, look back toward the Santa Monica Mountains, and take a relaxed stretch along the beach rather than trying to rush through every attraction. The pier is free to enter, although rides and arcade games cost extra.

Late Afternoon and Evening

From the pier, it is a five-minute walk inland to Third Street Promenade, a pedestrian shopping district with cafés, public art, and plenty of people-watching. Give it about an hour, but leave room to wander onto nearby Main Street if the promenade feels too commercial. For an early dinner, reserve a table at The Lobster, directly above the pier; its seafood, harbor-style atmosphere, and sunset-facing windows make it a worthwhile splurge, with dinner typically around $60–$100 per person before drinks and tip. Afterward, allow 25–40 minutes by rideshare to Griffith Observatory—traffic can be unpredictable, and parking near the observatory is limited. Check the official schedule before going: the grounds and exterior views are usually available into the evening, while the building and planetarium have separate hours and ticket costs. Arrive before sunset if possible for the best view over the Los Angeles basin and the illuminated Hollywood Sign; bring a light jacket, as the hill is noticeably cooler after dark.

Morning at The Getty Center

Start around 9:30am with a rideshare from central Los Angeles to The Getty Center in Brentwood; allow 30–45 minutes from Hollywood or Downtown, and longer in weekday traffic. The museum and gardens are typically open Tuesday–Sunday from 10:00am, with free admission, although you must reserve a timed-entry ticket online; parking is paid, usually around $25–$30. Spend about three hours exploring the galleries, central garden, and hilltop terraces. The views over Los Angeles are especially clear in the morning, and the tram from the parking structure is part of the experience. Wear comfortable shoes—the campus is larger and hillier than it looks.

Lunch and Midday Art

Head south to The Original Farmers Market at Third Street and Fairfax Avenue, roughly 25–40 minutes by car depending on traffic. This is a good flexible lunch stop: choose from stalls such as Du-par’s for classic American plates, Monsieur Marcel for French food, or Magee’s Kitchen for sandwiches and prepared dishes. Allow an hour and budget about $15–30 per person. Then walk or take a very short rideshare across Wilshire Boulevard to the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Plan roughly two hours for its broad collection; advance tickets are sensible, and general admission is commonly around $25 for adults, though exhibitions may cost extra. The museum is generally closed Wednesdays, so today’s visit should fit normally—still check the current hours before setting out.

Late Afternoon to Venice

From LACMA, allow 25–40 minutes to reach Randy’s Donuts in Inglewood, longer if traffic builds toward the coast. Pick up one of the shop’s oversized, inexpensive donuts—about $5–10 is plenty—and take a quick photo beneath the giant rooftop donut. Continue to Venice Beach Boardwalk, where early evening brings the best mix of fading light, buskers, murals, skaters, and ocean air. A rideshare is the easiest option; parking near the beach can be expensive and frustrating, so avoid driving unless you are comfortable using a paid garage. Spend around 90 minutes wandering toward the Venice Skatepark and the pier, keeping phones and wallets secure in the busiest stretches.

Dinner on Abbot Kinney Boulevard

Finish at Gjelina, a short walk inland from the boardwalk on Abbot Kinney Boulevard. Reserve ahead—its seasonal small plates and wood-fired dishes make it one of Venice’s most popular dinner addresses, and a meal generally runs $50–80 per person before drinks and gratuity. After dinner, stroll the boutiques and softly lit storefronts along Abbot Kinney rather than returning immediately to the beach. For the smoothest day, use rideshares between neighborhoods; Los Angeles distances are manageable, but traffic can easily add 20–30 minutes to each transfer.

Early Afternoon at Ferry Building Marketplace

After your morning flight from Los Angeles, take BART from San Francisco International Airport to Embarcadero Station—about 30 minutes, with trains every 15–20 minutes. From there, it is a short walk to Ferry Building Marketplace, where you can spend roughly 90 minutes grazing through local vendors. Look for Hog Island Oyster Co., Roli Roti, Gott’s Roadside, or Acme Bread Company, depending on whether you want seafood, something substantial, or a quick snack. The marketplace generally operates Tuesday–Sunday, with individual vendor hours varying; budget about $15–30 per person. Step outside afterward for a stroll along the Embarcadero, where the bay, Bay Bridge, and historic ferry terminal make an easy first impression of the city.

Afternoon at Pier 39 and Boudin at the Wharf

Use a rideshare or take the historic F-Market & Wharves streetcar north along the waterfront toward Fisherman’s Wharf—allow 20–30 minutes, as the service can be slow but scenic. At Pier 39, head to the west marina to see San Francisco’s famously noisy sea lions, then wander the shops and wooden waterfront decks for about an hour. Continue to Boudin at the Wharf, a roughly 10-minute walk away, for clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl or a warm loaf to share; allow an hour and expect around $20–35 per person. It is touristy, but this is one of the occasions when leaning into the classic waterfront experience works well.

Late Afternoon and Evening on Alcatraz Island

From Pier 33, board your reserved ferry to Alcatraz Island. The crossing takes about 15 minutes, but allow roughly three hours overall for the ferry, island walks, and the cellhouse audio tour. Reserve through the official Alcatraz City Cruises website well ahead—especially for the late-afternoon or evening departure—and bring a warm, windproof layer, since the island is noticeably colder than the mainland. After returning, walk or take a short rideshare uphill to Coit Tower on Telegraph Hill. If you still have energy and the tower is open, spend about an hour viewing its 1930s murals and the night skyline; otherwise, enjoy the illuminated views from the surrounding hill instead. The tower’s interior hours are seasonal and can change, so confirm the final entry time before committing to the visit.

Morning at Palace of Fine Arts

Start around 8:30am in the Marina District at the Palace of Fine Arts. The rotunda and lagoon are especially peaceful before the neighborhood fills up, and you only need about 45 minutes to walk the paths, admire the columns, and photograph the reflections. The grounds are generally open from dawn until late evening and are free. From here, take a rideshare or the Muni 30 bus toward the Presidio; allow 10–20 minutes depending on traffic.

Late Morning at the Golden Gate Bridge

Spend roughly 90 minutes at the Golden Gate Bridge, entering from the Presidio side near the visitor area. Walk onto the eastern sidewalk for classic views across the bay, but bring a warm layer—the bridge is often windy even when the city feels mild. Bicycles are available from nearby rental shops, though walking is simpler for a short visit. Avoid lingering in a parked car, and do not leave anything visible; use the official lots or arrive by rideshare. Afterward, continue by rideshare to Legion of Honor in Lincoln Park, usually 15–25 minutes.

Afternoon at Legion of Honor, then Tartine Bakery

Allow about two hours at Legion of Honor, whose grand neoclassical setting is almost as impressive as its European collection. It is typically open Tuesday–Sunday from 9:30am to 5:15pm, with admission commonly around $20; check the museum calendar for current exhibitions and closure days. The galleries overlooking the Pacific make this a slower, quieter stop after the bridge. In the late afternoon, rideshare to Tartine Bakery in the Mission District—roughly 25–35 minutes, traffic permitting—for a pastry, country loaf, or seasonal tart. Budget $10–20, and expect a queue, particularly on weekends.

Evening in Mission Dolores Park and dinner at Zuni Café

Take your pastry to Mission Dolores Park for an hour of people-watching and one of the city’s best urban views, stretching toward the downtown skyline. Stay on the upper eastern side for the panorama, and keep valuables close as the park becomes quieter near sunset. From the park, rideshare or take Muni to Zuni Café in Lower Pacific Heights, allowing about 20–30 minutes. Reserve ahead, especially if you want the celebrated roast chicken for two, which takes about an hour to prepare; dinner generally runs $60–100 per person before drinks and tip. The restaurant is known for a relaxed, lively atmosphere rather than quick service, so settle in for the full evening.

Morning in Golden Gate Park

If your flight is later in the day, leave your hotel around 8:00am and head to San Francisco Botanical Garden by rideshare or Muni. The garden generally opens at 7:30am, though seasonal hours and admission policies can vary; allow about 90 minutes for a peaceful walk through its Californian, Mediterranean, Asian, and cloud-forest collections. November is often cool and damp, so wear layers and shoes with good grip. From the garden, walk a few minutes to the Japanese Tea Garden, usually open from around 9:00am; spend an hour among the pagodas, arched bridges, ponds, and carefully pruned trees. Admission is typically about $15, with some early weekday periods offering free entry—check the official schedule before setting out.

Late Morning and Airport Transfer

Continue on foot to the de Young Museum Observation Tower, where the glass-walled Hamon Observation Tower offers wide views across Golden Gate Park, the Marina, and the Bay. The tower is generally free during museum hours, although the museum itself requires admission; plan on about an hour, and use the nearby café or museum shop only if your airport timing is comfortable. For an international flight, leave the park at least three hours before departure: a rideshare or taxi to San Francisco International Airport can take 35–60 minutes depending on traffic, while Muni to Powell Street followed by BART is usually more predictable and costs roughly $11–$13. On a tight schedule, choose a direct rideshare and allow extra time for airport traffic and check-in.