14 Day USA Cross Country Tour: LA to NYC via Yellowstone

If you’re dreaming of seeing the vast stretches of America—from the Hollywood glamour of Los Angeles to the bright lights of New York City—this 14-day tour promises just that. It’s a comprehensive, adventure-packed journey that touches on some of the country’s most famous sights, including Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, Chicago, and more. As seasoned travelers, we’ve looked into what makes this trip tick—and what might give you pause.

One thing we love? The diversity packed into just two weeks, from natural wonders to bustling metropolises. The guides seem knowledgeable, and the stops are thoughtfully chosen, giving you a real taste of American culture and scenery. Also, the inclusion of popular attractions like Old Faithful, Mount Rushmore, and the Chicago Architecture Cruise adds genuine value for first-timers wanting a broad overview.

However, a potential drawback? The tour’s pace is quite brisk. You’ll move from one iconic site to the next, which might leave some feeling a bit rushed, especially if you love lingering at spots or savoring local eats. Plus, the cost is around $2,700 per person, which, while inclusive of many highlights, still requires a consideration of whether the value matches your expectations for comfort and flexibility.

Who’s this best suited for? If you’re eager to tick off numerous major sights in a relatively short time—without the hassle of planning all the logistics—this tour might be a great fit. It’s especially good for travelers looking for an immersive overview of the US’s natural landscapes and cityscapes, and who are comfortable with group travel.

Key Points

• Diverse itinerary: From Yellowstone’s geothermal wonders to Chicago’s architecture, the trip covers a lot.
• Guided experience: Knowledgeable guides seem to enhance the trip, making the stops more meaningful.
• All-inclusive options: Several popular tours are bundled in, saving you time and hassle.
• Pace and structure: It’s fast-paced, ideal for those wanting a broad overview rather than deep exploration.
• Cost considerations: At around $2,693, the price is fair for the number of sights, but consider optional extras.
• Group size: The tour can host up to 55 travelers, which can be lively but also means less personal space.

An In-Depth Look at the 14-Day Cross Country Adventure

This tour isn’t just a collection of sights; it’s a well-orchestrated journey through the heart of America, designed to maximize your experience in just over two weeks. We’ll break down what you can expect at each stage, highlighting what makes each stop meaningful—and what might not be for everyone.

Starting in Los Angeles: A Warm Welcome and Santa Monica

Your adventure kicks off with airport pickup and a chance to explore Santa Monica. This is a clever way to ease into the trip, giving you some free time to soak in the beachside vibe or explore the pier. The included hotel night in LA offers a comfortable base before the road trip begins.

One thing to note is that there are two package options for the first day—if you’ve chosen the LA airport pick-up + free travel, you’ll have some flexibility. This is great for those who want a relaxed start rather than a packed schedule.

Journey Through the Desert: Calico Ghost Town and Las Vegas

Day 2 takes you north along Highway 15, through the iconic Mojave Desert. The visit to Calico Ghost Town is a fun, quirky stop—it’s an old, abandoned mining town that feels more like a step back in time than a spooky haunt. For the travelers, it’s free to enter, making it a low-cost highlight.

Later, you’ll get a taste of Las Vegas at night, with a tour showcasing the city’s brightest lights—think fountains, volcanoes, and iconic casinos. There’s an optional sightseeing day if you fancy exploring Vegas on your own at your pace, which can be appealing for those who prefer a bit of independence.

Utah’s Natural and Cultural Gems

Crossing into Utah on Day 3, the tour visits the Great Salt Lake and the Utah State Capitol. Both are quick stops but offer a glimpse into the state’s unique geography and political history. The lake’s saline waters will fascinate you—it’s the largest inland saltwater body in the western hemisphere, and it’s easy to see why it’s a must-see for geography buffs.

Salt Lake City’s Temple Square rounds out the day, giving you a peek into Mormon culture with its impressive grounds. The stops are brief but meaningful, especially if you appreciate understanding the local culture behind the landscape.

The Western Frontier: Jackson and Yellowstone

Day 4 moves into Wyoming, with a stop in Jackson, a town that still exudes cowboy charm. The Elk Antler Arches in Jackson Square are fun photo opportunities, made from thousands of elk antlers—definitely a playful and memorable spot.

Next, you’ll explore Grand Teton National Park, renowned for towering mountain peaks and shimmering lakes. The scenic drive here is a highlight, especially if you’re a fan of mountain vistas.

Yellowstone National Park is the star of Day 5. With an 8-hour exploration, you’ll see Old Faithful, Norris Geyser Basin, and Grand Prismatic Spring among other natural marvels. The guide’s commentary is designed to deepen your understanding of the geothermal activity and wildlife.

Reviews point out that the Yellowstone day is a long one, but the scenery makes up for it. One traveler noted, “Every step you take, you see beautiful scenery everywhere”—a sentiment many share. Just remember, the park’s size means your time is limited, so come prepared for a fast-paced but rewarding experience.

Into the Heart of the West: Devils Tower and Mount Rushmore

Day 6 features Devils Tower, a striking formation that’s become iconic thanks to movies like Close Encounters. The visit is about an hour and a half, giving you enough time for photos and a brief walk.

Day 7’s highlight is Mount Rushmore, where the carved faces of U.S. presidents stand tall. The guide provides insights into the monument’s history, and the stop is around 1.5 hours—adequate to appreciate the sculpture and snap some photos.

Afterward, Badlands National Park offers a rugged landscape of sharply eroded formations. It’s a quick stop but one that leaves many travelers impressed by the raw beauty.

South Dakota to Chicago: Cultural and Historical Stops

The journey continues into South Dakota and beyond. In Chicago, the tour hits several major sites: Millennium Park’s Cloud Gate (the Bean), Grant Park, the Art Institute, and the historic Water Tower District. These spots are perfect for city lovers keen on architecture, art, and skyline views.

The optional Chicago Architecture Cruise is a real treat, providing a different perspective on the city’s skyline—though it’s only available if the tour includes that option. The LIFT at 360 Chicago offers sweeping aerial views—again, optional but highly recommended for those wanting a bird’s-eye perspective.

Moving East: Detroit and Cleveland

The trip then shifts gears, moving to Detroit with stops at the Henry Ford Museum, which showcases American innovation and automotive history. One traveler mentioned that the museum is “one of the coolest,” giving the trip a nostalgic and educational boost.

Next, Cleveland’s Rock & Roll Hall of Fame offers a musical history lesson, and the Duquesne Incline provides scenic city views. These stops are brief but packed with iconic sights.

The Final Stretch: Philadelphia and New York City

Day 12 takes us to Harrisburg and Harrisburg’s Pennsylvania State Capitol, then to Hershey’s Chocolate World, which is as fun as it sounds. A chocolate-themed experience that’s perfect if you’re a sweet tooth.

The last days in Philadelphia include the University of Pennsylvania and Independence Hall, offering a satisfying look at American history and academia. The tour wraps up in New York City, with options for your own sightseeing or joining additional optional activities.

Practical Insights and What Travelers Say

While the tour covers a lot of ground, reviews note that the pace can be quite rapid. One traveler shared, “It’s a whirlwind, but you get a great overview of the country,” which is perfect if you’re eager to see many sights quickly. The guides seem to be regarded as knowledgeable, adding value with their commentary.

Transportation is via professional vehicles, and the group size can be up to 55 travelers—meaning you’ll meet a lot of fellow globetrotters. The hotel stays are included, with rooms designed to accommodate 2-4 guests, which helps keep costs reasonable.

Cost-wise, at about $2,700, the tour offers good value considering the number of major sights included. Many key attractions are bundled, saving you individual ticket stress, and optional extras include guided city tours, night tours, and cruises, which add to the experience.

One potential concern: the itinerary is packed, with early mornings and long days at the parks. If you prefer slow travel or deep dives into specific areas, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, since attractions like Yellowstone have variable opening dates (e.g., the South Gate opening expected around May 10, 2025), some stops may change or be unavailable depending on timing.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a broad overview of the United States without the hassle of planning logistics. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with group travel and enjoy hitting the major highlights in a structured format. The mix of natural wonders and vibrant cities makes it appealing to those interested in both landscapes and urban culture.

It’s especially suited for first-time visitors eager to see the most iconic sites, or those with limited time but a desire to cover a lot of ground. If you’re looking for a leisurely, in-depth exploration of one region, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re excited about a fast-paced, adventure-filled journey, this tour offers plenty of memorable moments.

Final Thoughts

All in all, the 14-day USA cross-country tour offers a comprehensive way to see the country’s highlights in a relatively short period. The value is clearly there, especially with the inclusion of major attractions, scenic drives, and cultural experiences. The guides seem to be a real asset, helping you make sense of the vast landscapes and fascinating cities you’ll visit.

It’s a logical choice for travelers who want to balance sightseeing and comfort, with most worries taken care of—from hotels to transportation. Just keep in mind the pace—if you prefer to soak in each place at leisure, this might feel a bit whirlwind-like.

If your goal is to experience the essence of America’s natural beauty and urban energy without the headache of planning, this tour could be a perfect fit. It’s a trip packed with memories waiting to be made, especially if you’re ready for a journey that covers a lot of ground.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children? The tour doesn’t specifically mention family-friendly accommodations or activities, but it generally caters to travelers comfortable with group travel. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and pregnant women can join if under 24 weeks, making it accessible for families with older kids.

What is included in the tour price? The cost covers hotel stays for 13 nights, breakfast, transportation via professional vehicles, and several key tours (like Yellowstone, Mount Rushmore, and Chicago attractions). Some optional tours are bundled, but extras like food, gratuities, and personal expenses are not included.

How long are the travel days? Days are quite full, with many visits scheduled from morning until evening. Expect early starts and long days, especially at parks like Yellowstone, which can involve a lot of walking and sightseeing.

Can I customize my experience? The tour has optional activities, like city night tours or cruises, which you can choose to join. However, the core itinerary is fixed, and any early departures or changes should be communicated with the tour guide.

Is there free time? Some free time is available, especially in larger cities like Chicago and New York, where you can explore on your own or join additional activities.

What about the pace—will I have time to relax? The schedule is quite packed, so if relaxing and savoring each stop is your priority, this might not be the perfect fit. It’s designed for travelers eager to see a lot in a short window.

Are there any hidden costs? Besides gratuities and personal expenses, optional attraction tickets aren’t included, so budget for those if you plan to visit additional sites.

What is the group size? Up to 55 travelers, which allows for a lively atmosphere but can also mean less flexibility. If you prefer smaller groups, ask the tour operator if smaller variants are available.

This tour offers a hearty slice of America’s best-known sights—perfect for travelers who want a broad, exciting overview with guidance and comfort along the way. Just remember, it’s a fast-paced trip—ideal if you’re eager to pack in as much as possible.