Day-by-Day Itinerary
Begin your American adventure in Manhattan, exploring the iconic Midtown landmarks and getting oriented in the city that never sleeps.
Morning
Arrival and Rockefeller Center exploration
After arriving at JFK or
Newark, check into your hotel and head to Rockefeller Center. Explore the iconic plaza, visit the observation deck at Top of the Rock for panoramic city views, and admire the Art Deco architecture. The observation deck offers some of the best views of Manhattan's skyline, including the Empire State Building.
3 hours
$40
Book Top of the Rock tickets online in advance to skip lines and choose sunset time slots
Lunch
A classic New York deli in Midtown
American deli sandwiches
Mid-range
Afternoon
Empire State Building visit
Head to the Empire State Building, one of the world's most famous skyscrapers. Take the elevator to the 86th-floor observation deck for breathtaking 360-degree views of New York City. Learn about the building's construction history and its role in popular culture through interactive exhibits on the second floor.
2-3 hours
$45
Purchase skip-the-line tickets online and visit during late afternoon to avoid peak crowds
Evening
Times Square and Broadway district exploration
Walk through illuminated Times Square, then enjoy dinner at a theater district restaurant. Consider catching a Broadway show if time permits.
Where to Stay Tonight
Midtown Manhattan (Mid-range hotel near Times Square)
Central location provides easy access to major attractions and subway lines for exploring the city
Purchase a MetroCard upon arrival—unlimited weekly passes offer great value if you're staying several days in NYC
Day 1 Budget: $250-350
Explore America's symbols of freedom and the historic financial district, including a ferry ride to see the Statue of Liberty.
Morning
Statue of Liberty and Ellis
IslandTake the early ferry from Battery Park to Liberty
Island to see the Statue of Liberty up close. Explore the grounds, visit the museum, and if you've reserved tickets, climb to the pedestal or crown. Continue to Ellis
Island to learn about America's immigration history through fascinating exhibits and personal stories of millions who entered through this gateway.
4-5 hours
$25
Book ferry tickets at least 2 weeks in advance; crown access requires 2-3 months advance booking
Lunch
A waterfront restaurant in the Financial District
Seafood or contemporary American
Mid-range
Afternoon
Lower Manhattan and 9/11 Memorial exploration
Walk through the historic Financial District, passing Wall Street and the iconic Charging Bull statue. Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum to pay respects and learn about the events of September 11, 2001. Stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning views of the skyline and the East River.
3-4 hours
$30
Reserve 9/11 Museum tickets online to guarantee entry time
Evening
Brooklyn neighborhood dinner
Cross into Brooklyn for dinner in DUMBO or Brooklyn Heights, enjoying views of the Manhattan skyline at sunset
Where to Stay Tonight
Midtown Manhattan (Same hotel as Day 1)
Staying put saves time and allows you to store luggage while exploring different neighborhoods
The Staten
Island Ferry is free and offers excellent views of the Statue of Liberty without the landing fee
Day 2 Budget: $200-280
Fly south to Tennessee and enter America's most visited national park, surrounded by ancient mountains and misty forests.
Morning
Flight to Knoxville and drive to Gatlinburg
Take a morning flight from New York to Knoxville, Tennessee. Rent a car at the airport and drive approximately one hour to Gatlinburg, the gateway to Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Stop at the visitor center to get maps, trail information, and learn about the park's biodiversity. The Smokies are home to more tree species than all of Europe.
5-6 hours including travel
$150 (flight not included)
Book rental car in advance for better rates; consider SUV for mountain driving
Lunch
A mountain lodge restaurant near the park entrance
Southern comfort food
Budget
Afternoon
Great Smoky Mountains National Park introduction
Enter Great Smoky Mountains National Park and drive the scenic Newfound Gap Road, stopping at overlooks for spectacular mountain views. Take a short hike on the Laurel Falls Trail (2.6 miles roundtrip) to see a beautiful waterfall. Explore Cades Cove, a historic valley with preserved homesteads, churches, and abundant wildlife including black bears, deer, and wild turkeys.
4-5 hours
$0 (no entrance fee)
Evening
Gatlinburg town exploration
Explore the mountain town of Gatlinburg, enjoying dinner at a local steakhouse or barbecue restaurant with Appalachian character
Where to Stay Tonight
Gatlinburg or Cherokee (Mountain lodge or cabin rental)
Staying near the park entrance allows early morning wildlife viewing and easy access to trails
Visit Cades Cove before 10am or on Wednesday/Saturday mornings when the loop is closed to vehicles until 10am for cyclists and walkers
Day 3 Budget: $220-300
Spend a full day hiking through old-growth forests, discovering waterfalls, and experiencing the biodiversity of America's most biodiverse national park.
Morning
Alum Cave Trail hike
Tackle the Alum Cave Trail, one of the park's most scenic hikes. This 5-mile roundtrip trail passes through old-growth forest, crosses Arch Rock, and reaches Alum Cave Bluffs with stunning views. The trail showcases the park's incredible plant diversity and offers glimpses of the misty mountains that give the park its name. Watch for salamanders—the Smokies are known as the salamander capital of the world.
4-5 hours
$0
Arrive early as the trailhead parking lot fills quickly, especially on weekends
Lunch
Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy at a scenic overlook
Picnic provisions
Budget
Afternoon
Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail
Drive the one-way Roaring Fork Motor Nature Trail, a scenic loop through pristine forest with several historic log cabins and grist mills. Stop for short walks to Grotto Falls, where you can walk behind the waterfall. The trail offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography, with rushing mountain streams and preserved pioneer structures.
3-4 hours
$0
Evening
Sunset at Clingmans Dome
Drive to Clingmans Dome, the highest point in the park, for sunset views. The observation tower offers 360-degree views of the misty mountains
Where to Stay Tonight
Gatlinburg or Cherokee (Same accommodation as Day 3)
Two nights allows you to fully explore the park without rushing or repacking
Download offline maps before entering the park as cell service is limited throughout most areas
Day 4 Budget: $150-200
Travel to St. Louis to see the iconic Gateway Arch and explore the historic riverfront of this Mississippi River city.
Morning
Travel to St. Louis
Drive from the Smokies to Knoxville airport and fly to St. Louis, Missouri. Upon arrival, head directly to the Gateway Arch National Park along the Mississippi River. This 630-foot stainless steel monument symbolizes America's westward expansion. Take the tram to the top for panoramic views of the city and the mighty Mississippi River below.
5-6 hours including travel
$160 (flight not included)
Book Gateway Arch tram tickets online in advance, especially during summer months
Lunch
A riverfront restaurant near the arch
St. Louis barbecue or American classics
Mid-range
Afternoon
The Gateway Arch experience and museum
Explore the Museum at the Gateway Arch, which tells the story of westward expansion through interactive exhibits and artifacts. Learn about Lewis and Clark's expedition, Native American history, and the pioneers who shaped the American West. Walk along the riverfront park and consider taking a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi for a different perspective of the city.
3 hours
$35
Evening
Downtown St. Louis dining
Explore the historic downtown area, visiting the old courthouse and enjoying dinner in the Soulard or Lafayette Square neighborhoods
Where to Stay Tonight
Downtown St. Louis (Hotel near the Gateway Arch)
Central location provides walkable access to riverfront attractions and nightlife
The best photos of the Gateway Arch are from across the river in East St. Louis, Illinois—drive across for sunset shots
Day 5 Budget: $240-320
Journey north to South Dakota's otherworldly landscape of eroded buttes, pinnacles, and fossil beds.
Morning
Flight to Rapid City and drive to Badlands
Fly from St. Louis to Rapid City, South Dakota. Pick up your rental car and drive east approximately 75 minutes to Badlands National Park. Stop at the Ben Reifel Visitor Center to get oriented, then begin exploring this dramatic landscape of layered rock formations, deep canyons, and towering spires sculpted by wind and water over millions of years.
5 hours including travel
$150 (flight not included)
The park entrance fee is $30 per vehicle, valid for 7 days
Lunch
Pack provisions from Rapid City or eat at the visitor center cafe
Casual American
Budget
Afternoon
Badlands National Park scenic drive and hikes
Drive the 30-mile Badlands Loop Road, stopping at numerous overlooks for spectacular views of the eroded landscape. Hike the Notch Trail (1.5 miles) for adventurous views requiring a ladder climb, or the easier Door Trail and Window Trail for close-up views of the formations. Watch for bighorn sheep, bison, and prairie dogs. The park contains one of the world's richest fossil beds from 37-23 million years ago.
4-5 hours
$30 (park entrance)
Evening
Sunset and stargazing
Stay for sunset when the formations glow golden and red, then experience some of America's darkest skies for incredible stargazing
Where to Stay Tonight
Wall, South Dakota or Interior (Motel or inn near park entrance)
Small towns near the park offer affordable lodging and allow early morning park access for best light and wildlife viewing
The Sage Creek Rim Road offers excellent bison viewing and fewer crowds than the main loop
Day 6 Budget: $220-280
Travel west to America's first national park, home to geysers, hot springs, and abundant wildlife.
Morning
Drive to Yellowstone
Embark on a scenic 6-hour drive from the Badlands to
Yellowstone National Park, entering through the Northeast or East entrance. The drive itself is spectacular, crossing Wyoming's high plains and mountains. Stop in Cody for lunch and to visit the Buffalo Bill Center if time permits. Enter Yellowstone and head toward the
Lamar Valley, known as America's Serengeti for its wildlife viewing opportunities.
7-8 hours including stops
$35 (park entrance)
Purchase the America the Beautiful Annual Pass ($80) if visiting multiple national parks
Lunch
A western-style restaurant in Cody, Wyoming
American steakhouse
Mid-range
Afternoon
Enter
Yellowstone National Park and drive through the
Lamar Valley during prime wildlife viewing hours. Look for bison herds, elk, pronghorn, and with luck, wolves or grizzly bears. Stop at pullouts to scan the landscape with binoculars. The valley offers some of the best wildlife viewing in North America, particularly during dawn and dusk hours when animals are most active.
3-4 hours
$0 (included in park entrance)
Evening
Settle into park accommodations
Check into your lodging and enjoy dinner at a park lodge restaurant, planning the next two days of exploration
Where to Stay Tonight
Mammoth Hot Springs or Canyon Village area (Park lodge or nearby cabin)
Staying inside or near the park allows early morning wildlife viewing and access to thermal features
Always carry bear spray and know how to use it—Yellowstone is prime grizzly and black bear habitat
Day 7 Budget: $280-350
Explore Yellowstone's famous geothermal features, including
Old Faithful and the colorful hot springs of the Upper Geyser Basin.
Morning
Visit the Upper Geyser Basin to see
Old Faithful erupt (approximately every 90 minutes). Walk the boardwalk loop to see dozens of geysers, hot springs, and colorful thermal pools. The area contains the world's largest concentration of geysers. Visit the
Old Faithful Visitor Education Center to learn about the park's geothermal activity and geology. The Morning Glory Pool and Riverside Geyser are highlights along the trail.
4 hours
$0
Check predicted eruption times at the visitor center to plan your visit around
Old Faithful
Lunch
American casual
Mid-range
Afternoon
Drive to Midway Geyser Basin to see the
Grand Prismatic Spring, Yellowstone's largest hot spring and one of the most photographed features in the park. The rainbow colors are created by heat-loving bacteria. Hike to the Grand Prismatic Overlook for aerial-like views. Continue to the Fountain Paint Pot area to see bubbling mud pots and colorful hot springs.
3-4 hours
$0
Evening
Hayden Valley wildlife watching
Drive through Hayden Valley during evening hours for excellent bison and elk viewing, possibly spotting bears along the Yellowstone River
Where to Stay Tonight
Canyon Village or Lake area (Same or nearby park accommodation)
Central location provides access to both northern and southern park attractions
Visit thermal features early morning when steam is most dramatic against cool air, creating magical photography conditions
Day 8 Budget: $180-240
Explore Yellowstone's canyon and waterfalls before heading south to the dramatic peaks of Grand Teton National Park.
Morning
Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone
Visit the Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone to see the spectacular Upper and Lower Falls. Walk to Artist Point for the classic view of the Lower Falls plunging 308 feet into the colorful canyon. Hike partway down Uncle Tom's Trail for close-up views of the falls' power. The canyon walls display beautiful yellow, orange, and red colors from hydrothermal alteration of volcanic rock.
3 hours
$0
Lunch
Pack a lunch for the scenic drive south
Picnic
Budget
Afternoon
Drive to Grand Teton National Park
Drive south through Yellowstone, exiting through the South Entrance directly into Grand Teton National Park. Stop at Colter Bay Visitor Center to get oriented, then drive along the scenic Teton Park Road. The jagged peaks of the Teton Range rise dramatically 7,000 feet above the valley floor. Stop at Jenny Lake and take the short walk to Hidden Falls for stunning mountain views.
4-5 hours
$0 (same park pass)
Evening
Sunset at Schwabacher Landing
Visit Schwabacher Landing for classic sunset reflections of the Tetons in the Snake River, one of the most photographed scenes in the national park system
Where to Stay Tonight
Jackson or Teton Village (Hotel or lodge near park entrance)
Jackson offers more dining options while maintaining easy park access for sunrise photography
Mormon Row's historic barns with the Tetons backdrop are best photographed at sunrise—arrive before dawn
Day 9 Budget: $250-320
Spend a full day exploring the dramatic peaks, pristine lakes, and wildlife-rich valleys of Grand Teton National Park.
Morning
Jenny Lake and Cascade Canyon
Take the boat shuttle across Jenny Lake (or hike around) and trek to Hidden Falls and Inspiration Point. For more adventure, continue into Cascade Canyon, one of the park's most spectacular trails, surrounded by towering peaks. The trail offers excellent chances to see moose, black bears, and marmots. The views of the Cathedral Group peaks are unforgettable.
4-5 hours
$20 (boat shuttle)
The boat shuttle runs May-September; arrive early as it fills quickly in summer
Lunch
Pack a trail lunch to enjoy at Inspiration Point
Picnic provisions
Budget
Afternoon
Scenic drive and Oxbow Bend
Drive the scenic loop through the park, stopping at Oxbow Bend for wildlife viewing and mountain reflections. This is one of the best spots to see moose, beavers, otters, and numerous bird species. Visit the Chapel of the Transfiguration for a unique framed view of the Tetons through the chapel window. Explore the historic Menor's Ferry and the Maud Noble Cabin.
3-4 hours
$0
Evening
Drive into
Jackson for dinner and explore the famous town square with its elk antler arches, western shops, and lively restaurant scene
Where to Stay Tonight
Jackson (Same accommodation as Day 9)
Two nights eliminates packing and allows you to explore both the park and Jackson thoroughly
Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk—drive Antelope Flats Road and Moose-Wilson Road during these times
Day 10 Budget: $220-280
Travel west to California's iconic Yosemite Valley, home to towering granite cliffs and spectacular waterfalls.
Morning
Flight to San Francisco and drive to Yosemite
Fly from
Jackson to San Francisco (via connecting city). Pick up a rental car and begin the 3.5-hour drive east to Yosemite National Park. The drive takes you through California's Central Valley and into the Sierra Nevada mountains. Enter through the Arch Rock entrance and descend into Yosemite Valley, where massive granite walls and waterfalls create one of America's most iconic landscapes.
7-8 hours including travel
$180 (flight not included)
Reserve Yosemite accommodation months in advance; consider staying in Mariposa or El Portal if park lodging is full
Lunch
Stop at a roadside restaurant in the Central Valley
California casual
Budget
Afternoon
Yosemite Valley introduction
Enter Yosemite National Park and drive into the valley. Stop at Valley View for your first panoramic vista of El Capitan, Bridalveil Fall, and Half Dome. Visit Bridalveil Fall for a short walk to the base of this 620-foot waterfall. Drive the valley loop, stopping at iconic viewpoints including Tunnel View, El Capitan Meadow, and Cathedral Beach for sunset views of the granite monoliths.
3-4 hours
$35 (park entrance)
Evening
Valley village area
Settle into your accommodation and have dinner at a valley restaurant, planning your Yosemite explorations for the next two days
Where to Stay Tonight
Yosemite Valley or nearby gateway town (Park lodge or hotel in Mariposa)
Valley location provides easy access to trails and shuttle system; gateway towns offer more affordable options
Use the free valley shuttle system to avoid parking headaches—it runs frequently and stops at all major trailheads
Day 11 Budget: $280-360
Hike to waterfalls and viewpoints, experiencing the majesty of Yosemite's vertical granite landscape and giant sequoias.
Morning
Mist Trail to Vernal Fall
Hike the Mist Trail to Vernal Fall, one of Yosemite's most spectacular trails. The 5.4-mile roundtrip hike climbs alongside the Merced River and up granite steps beside the thundering 317-foot waterfall. Expect to get soaked from the mist, especially in spring and early summer. The views from the top are breathtaking. For more challenge, continue to Nevada Fall for a 7-mile roundtrip adventure.
4-5 hours
$0
Start early to avoid crowds and afternoon heat; bring rain gear for the mist section
Lunch
Pack a lunch to enjoy at the top of Vernal Fall
Trail provisions
Budget
Afternoon
Mariposa Grove of Giant Sequoias
Drive or take the shuttle to Mariposa Grove to walk among giant sequoias, some of the largest living things on Earth. The Grizzly Giant is estimated to be 1,800 years old. Walk the easy grove trails to see dozens of these magnificent trees. The California Tunnel Tree and Bachelor and Three Graces are highlights. These trees can grow over 250 feet tall and 30 feet in diameter.
3 hours
$0
Take the free shuttle from the South Entrance as parking at the grove is limited
Evening
Sunset at Glacier Point
If the road is open, drive to Glacier Point for sunset views of Half Dome, Vernal and Nevada Falls, and the High Sierra—one of the most spectacular viewpoints in any national park
Where to Stay Tonight
Yosemite Valley or gateway town (Same accommodation as Day 11)
Staying put allows you to explore different areas without the hassle of changing hotels
Waterfalls are most impressive in May and June from snowmelt; by late summer, some may be dry
Day 12 Budget: $180-240
Enjoy a final Yosemite morning before driving to San Francisco for your last evening in California.
Morning
Mirror Lake and valley exploration
Take a morning walk to Mirror Lake, a peaceful spot with reflections of Half Dome and surrounding cliffs (best in spring when water levels are high). Alternatively, explore the Ansel Adams Gallery to see iconic photographs of Yosemite, or walk through the Yosemite Village to learn about the park's natural and cultural history at the museum and visitor center.
2-3 hours
$0
Lunch
Final meal at a valley restaurant or café
American casual
Mid-range
Afternoon
Drive to San Francisco
Begin the scenic 4-hour drive from Yosemite to San Francisco. The route takes you through the Sierra foothills and across the Central Valley. Arrive in San Francisco by late afternoon and check into your hotel. Take an evening walk along Fisherman's Wharf or through North Beach to get a feel for the city by the bay.
5-6 hours including stops
$40 (gas and tolls)
Evening
San Francisco waterfront dining
Enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant, watching the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge and bay
Where to Stay Tonight
Fisherman's Wharf or Union Square (Hotel in central San Francisco)
Central location provides easy access to attractions and public transportation for your final day
San Francisco parking is expensive and challenging—consider using public transit or ride-sharing services
Day 13 Budget: $280-360
Explore San Francisco's iconic landmarks before your departure, experiencing the City by the Bay's unique character.
Morning
Golden Gate Bridge and waterfront
Walk or bike across the Golden Gate Bridge, one of the world's most recognizable landmarks. The 1.7-mile span offers spectacular views of the bay, Alcatraz
Island, and the city skyline. Visit Fort Point beneath the bridge or explore Crissy Field beach. Take a cable car ride through the steep streets of San Francisco, experiencing this historic mode of transportation that's become a city icon.
3-4 hours
$30
Bike rentals near Fisherman's Wharf offer a fun way to reach the bridge and explore the waterfront
Lunch
Sourdough bread bowl with clam chowder at a wharf restaurant
San Francisco seafood specialties
Mid-range
Afternoon
Final San Francisco exploration and departure
Depending on your flight time, explore Alcatraz
Island (requires advance booking), ride the historic cable cars to Union Square for shopping, or visit the colorful Victorian houses at Alamo Square. Walk through Chinatown, the oldest in North America, or explore the Mission District's murals and cafes. Head to the airport for your departure flight, carrying memories of America's incredible diversity.
3-4 hours
$40
Alcatraz tickets must be booked weeks or months in advance
Evening
Departure
Head to San Francisco International Airport for your departure flight, or extend your stay to explore more of California
Where to Stay Tonight
Not needed (Departure day)
End of itinerary
Allow extra time to reach SFO airport—traffic can be heavy, and the airport is about 30-45 minutes from downtown
Day 14 Budget: $200-280