13-Day USA Cross-Country Tour: NYC to LA via Chicago and Vegas

Traveling across the United States in just over two weeks sounds ambitious—and it definitely is. This 13-day USA cross-country tour promises a whirlwind adventure from the skyscrapers of New York City to the glitz of LA, with plenty of iconic stops in between. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on what’s included and honest feedback from previous travelers, it’s a solid choice for those wanting to see a broad swath of America without the hassle of planning every detail.

What we particularly like about this tour is how it mixes big city highlights with natural wonders. The carefully curated stops at Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, Badlands, and Devils Tower mean you’re not just glued to urban environments. Also, the inclusion of guided transportation, some key attractions, and hotel stays definitely adds to the convenience—especially for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace while still seeing a lot.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is the pace. It’s a fast-moving itinerary, which means long driving days and packed schedules. If you’re someone who prefers slow, in-depth explorations, this might feel rushed. Also, prices are given upfront, but some attractions and meals are optional, so you might end up spending more if you want to do everything.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers craving a comprehensive cross-country experience, those comfortable with group travel, and anyone eager to tick off major American landmarks in a set timeframe.

Key Points

• Ideal for travelers wanting a broad overview of American cities and natural landmarks in one trip.
• Includes guided transportation and some key attractions, providing convenience and a touch of local insight.
• Long days and packed schedules mean you’ll need stamina and patience.
• Price offers good value for the number of destinations covered, especially if you opt for the included tours and breakfast.
• Great for those who appreciate a mix of city vibes, cultural sites, and national parks.
• Not the best choice if you prefer in-depth visits or flexible schedules.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

Day 1 & 2: Starting in New York and Moving Through the East Coast

The tour kicks off with a free airport pickup at JFK or LGA, which is a nice touch, especially after a long flight. From there, the guide takes you on a morning tour of New York City Hall and Brooklyn Bridge, giving a quick but meaningful glimpse of Manhattan’s iconic skyline and historic boroughs. If you’re lucky and can meet the guide before 9 am, you’ll also get to enjoy the City Night Tour with highlights like Times Square—an excellent way to see the city that never sleeps lit up at night.

On Day 2, the group heads to Philadelphia, a city bursting with American history. The visit includes the University of Pennsylvania, with a campus tour and museum visit, plus Independence Hall and Liberty Bell. The stops here are a good balance of education and sightseeing, though bear in mind the four-hour campus tour might feel a bit rushed for some.

Days 3 & 4: From Hershey’s Chocolate to Cleveland

Hershey’s Chocolate World on Day 3 is a definite highlight for those with a sweet tooth. The free 10-minute ride through the chocolate-making process is a fun, light-hearted experience. Afterward, a quick visit to Harrisburg’s Pennsylvania State Capitol adds a bit of local flavor.

The journey then takes you to Cleveland on Day 4, home to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. While this museum is a must-see for music fans, it’s not included in the tour price. The short visit means you’ll get a taste of Cleveland’s musical roots but might wish for more time here.

Days 5 & 6: Chicago, the Architectural Gem

A major highlight is Chicago, where the tour includes Millennium Park, Grant Park, and an optional architecture cruise**. The city’s bold skyline, seen from the 360 Chicago Observation Deck, offers some of the best vistas in the nation. The city is vibrant, and the mix of free outdoor parks and art museums makes Chicago a favorite for many travelers. We loved the chance to see the city from above and the iconic Buckingham Fountain, especially at dusk when the city lights start to sparkle.

Days 7 & 8: Small Town Charm and the Badlands

The trip shifts gears with a visit to Galena, a lovely little town with European-style architecture, and the Ulysses S. Grant Home—perfect for history buffs or those interested in presidential history.

Then it’s on to the Badlands and Mount Rushmore, two of South Dakota’s most famous sights. These natural and sculptural marvels are breathtaking, especially as the sun hits the rugged terrain and carved faces. The tour does a good job of balancing these highlights with time for photos and brief exploration.

Days 9 & 10: Devils Tower and Yellowstone

The dramatic Devil’s Tower is a fantastic stop, especially for anyone interested in geology or Native American history. The guided visit provides a solid overview, though you might find the hour and a half time somewhat tight if you want to explore more.

Yellowstone is undeniably the star of this part of the trip. With around 8 hours allocated, you’re seeing geysers, hot springs, and the iconic Old Faithful eruption. The guide takes you through Norris Geyser Basin, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Fountain Paint Pot, giving a good overview of this geothermal wonderland. Be prepared for lots of walking and some weather variability—layers are your friends here.

Days 11 & 12: Grand Teton, Salt Lake City, and Beyond

The journey continues through Grand Teton National Park, with stunning mountain vistas and lakes, perfect for photos and just soaking it all in. Then it’s a quick visit to Salt Lake City, including the Utah State Capitol and Temple Square. The Great Salt Lake’s salty expanses are also on the list, offering a fascinating natural contrast to the parks.

Day 13: Ending in Las Vegas

The final day takes you into Las Vegas, where you’ll enjoy a night tour with sights like the Bellagio Fountains. It’s a lively way to wrap up your adventure, experiencing the city’s bright lights and entertainment.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Group Experience

The tour uses professional vehicles, and the accommodations include 12 nights in hotels. The group is limited to around 55 travelers, which strikes a good balance between social interaction and personal space. The transportation options and guided day trips make it easier for travelers to navigate the extensive distances and complex logistics.

What about the value?

At around $2,575 per person, this price includes a lot: guided transport, some major attractions, and hotel stays. The optional tours—like the Chicago Architecture Cruise or the Art Institute—are not included in the base price but offer nice add-ons for those interested. Meals are mostly not included, except breakfast, so keep that in mind when budgeting.

Pros and cons based on feedback and features:

Pros:
– Covers a wide range of iconic sights across the US in a manageable timeframe.
– Well-organized with professional guides and transportation.
– Opportunities for stunning views and memorable photo stops.
– Includes some famous attractions and parks with the option for additional tours.

Cons:
– The schedule is quite tight, with long driving days and limited free time.
– Some attractions are optional and can add to costs if you want to experience more.
– The pace might be too rushed for those wanting deep dives into each location.

Who is this tour best suited for?

This cross-country adventure is perfect for travelers who want a rundown of America’s highlights without the stress of planning every detail. It suits those comfortable with group tours and long days on the road. If you love seeing big landscapes, big cities, and iconic monuments in a relatively short time, this tour offers a good balance. However, if you prefer relaxing, in-depth exploration or traveling at your own pace, you might find the schedule a little full.

Final Thoughts

The 13-Day USA Cross-Country Tour offers an efficient way to see many of the country’s most famous sights—both natural and urban. While it moves swiftly, it packs in a lot of value for those eager to get a taste of America’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture. The tour’s guided nature means less stress about logistics, and the inclusion of key attractions makes it a convenient choice.

For travelers who want the thrill of a broad, South-to-North, East-to-West journey, this tour hits a lot of marks. It’s especially appealing for first-timers or those with limited time but big travel dreams. Just remember, the rhythm is fast—so pack your energy and a good pair of walking shoes.

FAQ

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, free airport pickup is available on Day 1 at JFK or LGA, making your first day a little easier after arriving in New York.

Are meals included in the tour?
Only breakfast is included; most lunches and dinners are on your own. That gives you flexibility to explore local flavors or stick to familiar options.

Can I join the night tours?
Yes, if your schedule allows, you can join special night tours like the Chicago Night Tour or Las Vegas Night Tour, though some are optional and not included in the base price.

What attractions are included in the tour price?
The tour includes guided visits to places like New York City Hall, Hershey’s Chocolate World, the Ulysses S. Grant Home, Devils Tower, Yellowstone, and Grand Teton National Parks, among others.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as family-friendly, older children and teenagers who enjoy sightseeing and nature should find it engaging. Keep in mind the long driving hours and busy schedule.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, sun protection, and some cash for extras. A camera or smartphone for photos is a must.

This tour is a solid choice if you’re looking to tick off some of America’s most iconic landscapes and cities in one go, with the convenience of guided logistics. It’s best for those who want to see a lot, move quickly, and enjoy a mix of urban culture and breathtaking nature.