13 Days USA Cross Country Tour LA to NYC via Yellowstone

If you’ve been dreaming of covering the vast landscapes and iconic sights of the USA in one sweeping journey, this 13-day LA to NYC cross-country tour might just be what you’re looking for. Offered by Jupiter Legend Corporation, this adventure promises an immersive experience that combines stunning national parks, bustling cities, and famous landmarks.

We haven’t personally taken this tour, but from the detailed breakdown and traveler reviews, we can say it offers a well-rounded taste of America’s highlights. Two features that stand out are the variety of stops, from natural wonders to cultural hotspots, and the knowledgeable guides that are frequently praised. It’s also clear that the tour provides a comfortable way to see a lot without the hassle of planning every detail yourself.

However, a potential downside is the tight schedule — with so many stops packed into just over a week, there’s limited time at each location, especially in cities like Chicago or Philadelphia. This tour suits travelers who enjoy an action-packed itinerary and don’t mind rushing through some sights for the sake of covering as much ground as possible.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers eager to see diverse American landscapes and cityscapes in one go. If you prefer a slower pace or traveling with very young children, it might not be the perfect fit. But for those wanting a straightforward, guided experience that hits the major highlights, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Diverse Destinations: From Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders to New York City’s vibrant streets, the tour offers a broad spectrum of experiences.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Most major attractions and national parks are included, reducing the hassle of ticketing and planning.
• Group Dynamics: The tour features group discounts and typically involves a moderate-sized group, which can be great for socializing but might mean less flexibility.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation is provided, and hotel stays are organized, making the logistics manageable.
• Value for Price: At $1,319, it covers many major sights, but keep in mind extras like meals, tips, and optional activities are not included.
• Expert Guides: Travelers mention that guides are knowledgeable, offering insights that enrich each stop.

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Los Angeles and Santa Monica

The tour kicks off with airport pick-up in LA, and you’ll get a taste of the city with a visit to Santa Monica. While this is a brief introduction, it’s a good way to ease into the trip and enjoy some California vibes before hitting the road.

Journey Through the Southwest: Calico Ghost Town & Las Vegas

Traveling north along Highway 15, you’ll pass through the Mojave Desert, spotting iconic Joshua trees. The stop at Calico Ghost Town is a neat introduction to California’s old mining towns — it’s small but full of Western charm, and the fact that admission is free makes it a nice budget-friendly stop.

In Las Vegas, the tour includes a night tour with sights like the Mirage Volcano and Bellagio Fountains. While the tour doesn’t include admission to some attractions, the night lights of Vegas are best experienced in the evening anyway. If you’re into bright lights and lively atmospheres, Vegas won’t disappoint, but it’s worth noting that this part is more about viewing cityscapes than delving into shows or casinos.

Utah’s Natural Beauty and Salt Lake City

Heading into Utah, you’ll visit the Great Salt Lake, a surreal, saline inland sea that’s unlike anything else. The tour includes a 20-minute stop, which is enough to get a feel for its size and stark beauty.

Salt Lake City’s Capitol and Temple Square give a sense of local history and culture. Both are free and easy to explore, making them valuable stops for understanding Utah’s heritage.

Wyoming’s Iconic Landscapes: Jackson and Grand Teton

Jackson offers a Western vibe, with its famous Elk Antler Arches in the town square, a quick but memorable photo spot. Then, you’ll drive through the Grand Teton National Park, known for its breathtaking mountain views and shimmering lakes. An hour-long scenic loop gives you a snapshot of the park’s grandeur.

Yellowstone National Park: The Highlight

Spending a full day in Yellowstone, you’ll visit several key geothermal features. The tour includes Old Faithful, Grand Prismatic Spring, and Norris Geyser Basin, among others. The 8-hour day allows a good overview, but as one reviewer points out, “the attractions will be adjusted according to the actual situation of the day,” which means flexibility is key.

Yellowstone is often praised for its spectacular geysers and colorful hot springs, which are unlike anything else in the world. The tour covers the main highlights, but prepare for a lot of walking and moving around in sometimes crowded areas.

South Dakota’s Mount Rushmore & Badlands

The iconic Mount Rushmore is a must-see, and the tour dedicates about 90 minutes there, which is enough to snap some photos and learn about its history. Nearby, the Badlands National Park offers rugged, eroded landscapes perfect for photos and short walks.

Crossing into the Midwest: Illinois and Beyond

Stops in Galena highlight its historic buildings and European feel, giving a break from the grandeur of nature with a touch of Americana. From there, we move into Chicago, where the itinerary includes Millennium Park, the Art Institute, and optional sightseeing like a Chicago Architecture Cruise and 360 Chicago Observation Deck.

Chicago’s architecture is world-famous, and these stops give you a chance to appreciate the skyline from different perspectives. The Art Institute is particularly notable for its extensive collection, and the city cruise offers a fun, relaxed way to see the city’s landmarks.

Moving East: Detroit and Cleveland

In Detroit, the focus is on the Henry Ford Museum, celebrating American innovation, and the GM Renaissance Center adds a modern touch. In Cleveland, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame is a highlight, especially if you love music history.

The Final Stretch to the East Coast

Stops in Harrisburg, Hershey’s Chocolate World, and finally Philadelphia round out the trip. Philadelphia’s Independence Hall and Freedom Trail are perfect for history buffs, and the university visit in Penn offers an educational finish to your adventure.

What Travelers Say

While we don’t have many reviews, those available frequently mention the guides’ knowledge as a standout feature. One reviewer notes that the guides make the journey informative and engaging, which is reassuring when covering so much ground.

The scenic stops, especially Yellowstone and the Grand Tetons, get high praise for their breathtaking views. A traveler shared that the food and tapas during the tour were delicious, adding to the overall experience.

Some travelers have pointed out that the schedule can be hectic, with long days and limited time at each site. If you prefer lazier days or more time at each attraction, this might feel rushed, but others see it as a fair trade-off for seeing so much.

Practical Details & Tips

• Transportation: The tour uses different vehicles based on group size, which keeps things comfortable but be prepared for a fair amount of bus time.
• Price & Value: The $1,319 price covers most major attractions and includes hotel stays, but meals, tips, and optional activities are extra. It’s a good value for a comprehensive trip, especially considering the inclusion of national parks.
• What to Bring: Comfortable shoes are a must, given the amount of walking. Sun protection and hydration are also key.
• Family-Friendly? This tour is generally suitable for most adults and older teens who are comfortable with long days and travel. Kids under 6 need booster seats, so check your arrangements if traveling with young children.

The Sum Up

For travelers eager to experience the breadth of the USA without the stress of planning, this 13-day cross-country tour offers a solid, guided solution. It hits the highlights — Yellowstone’s geothermal marvels, Mount Rushmore, Chicago’s skyline, and vibrant eastern cities — all in a manageable package.

The tour’s strength lies in its diversity and the knowledge of guides who can bring each stop to life. While the schedule is packed and days are long, the payoff is a rundown of what makes America special: its landscapes, history, and urban energy.

If you’re someone who loves adventure, doesn’t mind a busy itinerary, and wants to tick off major sights without navigating logistics solo, this trip could be a perfect fit. Just be prepared for the fast pace and ensure you’re good with a lot of group travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airport pick-up included?
Yes, the tour provides free pick-up on the first day between 10:00 am and 10:00 pm. You’ll need to specify your flight details at booking or at least three days before departure.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals are not included, but breakfast is optional and available. You should plan for additional expenses for food and beverages during the trip.

How big are the groups?
The tour has a maximum of 55 travelers, which makes for a comfortable group size but still lively and social.

Can children join this tour?
Children under 6 need booster seats, and most travelers are adults or older teens. It’s not specifically marketed as family-friendly, so consider your kids’ stamina for long days of sightseeing.

What if I want to leave the tour early?
You should inform the guide and sign a departure form if you want to exit early. No refunds are given for unused portions.

Are the attractions flexible?
Yes, the itinerary can be adjusted based on weather, traffic, or other considerations. If a site is closed, an alternative will be provided.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, water, and cash for optional expenses are recommended. Dress in layers for varying weather conditions.

What if I book late or have flight delays?
You’ll need to provide your flight info when booking or at least three days before. Delays might affect your transfer or participation, so communicate promptly.

This tour offers a hearty slice of America for those ready for an energetic, guided journey through some of its most iconic sights. With the right mindset and prepared for the pace, you’ll come away with unforgettable memories and a new appreciation for this vast, diverse country.