The Ultimate 5-day US Adventure on a Shoestring Budget

  • Day 1: Statue of Liberty
    25 minutes (8.5 miles) from JFK Airport

    Start your US adventure in one of the most iconic landmarks, the Statue of Liberty. Take a ferry ride to visit the statue and enjoy the stunning views of the New York skyline. You can also explore Ellis Island to learn about American immigration history.

  • Day 2: The Metropolitan Museum of Art
    17 minutes (3 miles) from Central Park

    The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a must-see for art lovers. With 2 million works of art, it is one of the largest museums in the world. The museum offers a pay-what-you-wish admission, so you can fit this visit into your shoestring budget.

  • Day 3: The Grand Canyon
    2 hours and 20 minutes flight from Newark Airport to Phoenix, then 3 hours and 10 minutes (230 miles) drive from Phoenix to Grand Canyon National Park

    The Grand Canyon is one of the most breathtaking natural wonders in the US. You can either drive or take a bus to explore the South Rim, which offers some of the best panoramic views. Don't miss the sunrise or sunset at the canyon for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

  • Day 4: Disneyland Resort
    20 minutes (15 miles) from Los Angeles

    The Disneyland Resort offers a magical experience for travelers of all ages. Get your adrenaline pumping on the exciting rides, meet your favorite Disney characters, and enjoy the delicious food and drinks. You can save on admission by purchasing tickets in advance online.

  • Day 5: Golden Gate Park
    16 minutes (6 miles) from Fisherman's Wharf

    Head to San Francisco’s famous Golden Gate Park to enjoy the fresh air and stunning views. Explore the Japanese Tea Garden, take a stroll through the Botanical Garden, and visit the de Young Museum for contemporary art exhibitions. End your trip with the unforgettable sight of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Statue of Liberty (3 hours, $18)
  • The Metropolitan Museum of Art (3 hours, pay-what-you-wish)
  • The Grand Canyon (full day, $35 per car for a 7-day pass)
  • Disneyland Resort (full day, $104 for a 1-day ticket per person)
  • Golden Gate Park (half day, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $157 per person (excluding flights and transportation)

Transportation

Consider public transportation options such as the subway, buses, or trains to save on travel costs. You can also rent a car for day trips outside of the city. Flights can be booked in advance to save money, and consider using ride-sharing apps such as Uber or Lyft to get around.

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other US destinations such as Miami, Chicago, or the national parks out west. For those on a tighter budget, consider camping or staying in Airbnb accommodations. Subtract Disneyland Resort from the itinerary to save on expenses for a trip that focuses more on nature and art.

Airports

The main international airports in the US include JFK Airport in New York City, LAX Airport in Los Angeles, and O'Hare International Airport in Chicago. JFK Airport is located in the southeastern part of Queens, New York City and is approximately 16 miles from the city center.

0