Road trip West USA 3-week

You dream about the Western American national parks, the canyons and exceptional sceneries? You have 3 weeks of vacation you don’t know what to do with? This road trip West USA itinerary is perfect for you!

Go on a proper road trip across 4 states and discover landscapes from cow-boy territory to seaside cities.

Here is a glimpse of the beautiful experiences awaiting in 3-week road trip in Western USA:

• Ride a bike in Venice Beach when in Los Angeles
• Hike along the beautiful Rim Trail to discover Grand Canyon in a different way
• Go on a visit of Monument Valley with a Navajo guide to discover the history of the valley
• Marvel at the unbelievable beauty of the Lower Antelope Canyon
• Admire the thousands of fairy chimneys from Inspiration Point in Bryce Canyon
• Discover the unknown Las Vegas when visiting Old Vegas District
• Drive on the superb Artists Drive in Death Valley
• Feel very small surrounded by the giant trees of Sequoia Park
• Walk to see the great waterfalls in Yosemite National Park
• Visit San Francisco and its various districts

To travel safely and without any worry on your mind, we recommend Chapka Insurance!

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 3-week road trip West USA

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Some practical information before your road trip to the US

 

For this itinerary, we recommend renting a car from Sixt. It’s possible to rent it in one city and return it in another without exorbitant prices and limiting hidden costs.

You want to buy a paper travel guide? We recommend this one! In our opinion, it’s the most complete, the most visual and the most up to date!

Need a road map to prepare your itinerary? We recommend this one, the most detailed and the most pleasant to read!

The best period for this 3-week road trip in Western USA is from April to October. This country is worth a visit year-round, but during these months, it is when the weather is at its best. Except from July and August, when temperatures can get pretty high and there are more tourists. See more details here.

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Contents: 3-week road trip West USA

1- Los Angeles – Stop 1 of the 3-week road trip in Western USA
2- Grand Canyon – Stop 2 of the 3-week road trip in West USA
3- Monument Valley – Stop 3 of the 3-week road trip in Western USA
4- Lake Powell / Antelope Canyon – Stop 4 of the 3-week road trip in West USA
5- Bryce Canyon – Stop 5 of the 3-week road trip in Western USA
6- Las Vegas – Stop 6 of the 3-week road trip in West USA
7- Death Valley – Stop 7 of the 3-week road trip in Western USA
8- Sequoia National Park – Stop 8 of the 3-week road trip in West USA
9- Yosemite National Park – Stop 9 of the 3-week road trip in Western USA
10- San Francisco – Stop 10 of the 3-week road trip in West USA

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3-week itinerary in West USA: step by step

 

What to do in Los Angeles?

Discover the “City of Angels”, full of contrasts, but a nice way to start your 3-week road trip in Western USA.

•  Hollywood Walk of Fame. Walk on the famous celebrity stars and spot your idol’s to take a pic! There are over 2000 stars!
• Santa Monica beach, located North of L.A with a blend of resort and city atmosphere. Go to the pier and enjoy the ferris wheel and many rides.
• Grammy Museum, is a music museum. Discover interactive exhibitions about American music history. Feel like a singer or DJ!
• The Griffith Observatory was built in 1935. There, you can discover its modern planetarium and cinema. At night, with a clear sky, observe stars and planets through a telescope.
• We have a good deal for you : buy the Go City Pass for Los Angeles, and you will save money when visiting of all of the must-see of the city!

 

What else can you do in L.A?

 

• Studios Universal, are open to the public since 1915. Get a tour of your favorite movies’ sets, outdoor decors and special effects studios!
• Warner Bros Studios are another great way to discover your favorite TV shows’ sets, such as the Friends’ one for example!

 

Where to sleep in Los Angeles?

 

• Mid-range: Located in Venice Beach area, The Kinney hotel welcomes you in a colourful establishment. You’ll love the courtyard and the style of the hotel! You can even rent a bike for the day (at a good price) to ride along the waterfront.
• High-end: Book one of the magnificent suites at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills and enjoy the ultimate in comfort in the heart of Beverly Hills district. The breakfasts are great and the rooftop pool, even more!

 

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What to do in Grand Canyon National Park?

One of our planet’s most beautiful natural wonders, you will surely feel quite small while facing it. 

South Rim, open year-round.

• Take Hermit Rd, a scenic road following the canyon on 11 km / 6.8 miles. We also recommend Desert View Road, about 42 km / 26 miles long. Make sure to stop at the view points to get the most outstanding views.  
• Rim Trail is an easy 20 km / 12.5 mile trail. Hike through the small pine trees of Kaibab National Forest and get to see historic sites and extraordinary panoramas. 
• Admire this natural wonder from above during a helicopter flight. It’s a truly magical and timeless experience that is sure to be a highlight of your 3-week road trip in Western USA!

North Rim, closed during winter.

• North Kebab Trail, is a well-maintained trail connecting the river to the South Rim. Hike up to Roaring Springs.
• Go down Colorado‘s rapids and discover Grand Canyon from the bottom, where life took place. Admire the ruins, ship wrecks and rock art. 

 

Where to sleep in Grand Canyon’s surroundings?

 

• Mid-range: Stay at the Grand Canyon Plaza Hotel during your stopover and enjoy a great location for visiting the park. We especially like the hot tub and pool (open during high season only), the location (close to the Grand Canyon) and the cleanliness.
• High-end: Choose The Grand Hotel if you want to get into the park atmosphere. Whether it’s the comfort and cleanliness of the rooms, the gym, the indoor pool or the location near the park, nothing is left to chance. In short, go for it!

 

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What to do in Monument Valley?

A western movie set on Native American territory.

• Go to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park and take the 27 km /16.7 mile long trail in an outstanding setting. Take your own car or take part in an organized tour.  
• After exploring this splendid park, you’ll understand where the inspiration for this Navajo quote came from, “May I walk in beauty”. 

 

Which activities in Monument Valley?

 

• Enjoy the third stop of this 3-week road trip in Western USA by exploring the valley’s backcountry with a Navajo guide. This is the perfect activity for those who want to learn more about the culture and history of the area.
• Experience the breathtaking beauty of a sunset tour of the valley. The orange colours of the sky reflected on the rock formations create a unique atmosphere.

 

Where to sleep in Monument Valley’s surroundings?

 

• Mid-range: Experience the iconic US travel experience by staying at the Mokee Motel. Although you won’t be sleeping in the valley, this accommodation promises comfort, authenticity and a beautiful night sky.
• High-end: Take in the stunning views from Goulding’s Lodge and enjoy cosy, individual accommodations. We recommend the suite with a kitchenette, perfect to cook your meals. You’ll be minutes away from the Monument Valley site (you can see it from there). Ideal for your stopover in this dream landscape!

 

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What to do in Lake Powell and Antelope Canyon?

Breathtaking nature, you will surely feel speechless when facing such natural beauty during this stop of your 3-week road trip in Western USA. 

• Discover Lake Powell, winding through beautiful white cliffs. Rent a kayak or go on a cruise on these translucent waters. A beautiful scenery! 
• Upper Antelope Canyon, is more accessible but also busier. Sign up for a guided tour and discover different sandstones highlighted by sun light. 
• If you’d rather like a more quiet place, go to Lower Antelope Canyon.
• A few kilometers / miles away, take a 2.4 km / 1.5 mile long trail and discover Horseshoe Bend, where the river is shaped like a perfect U. A must-see. If you want to take the experience a little further, you can even fly over it in a helicopter! 

 

Where to sleep in Lake Powell’s surroundings?

 

• Mid-range: In the middle of nowhere, discover Lee’s Ferry Lodge, a motel with an original decoration which will plunge you into the universe of the Californian desert. The staff will give you a great welcome.
• High-end: For more comfort, the Hyatt Place Page Lake Powell welcomes you in the middle of the desert in a modern and comfortable complex. What we like: the pool, the terrace and the gym.

 

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What to do in Bryce Canyon?

Red rock landscape also called “Hoodoos”. 

• Drive on the Rim Road Scenic Drive and follow the canyon on 29 km / 18 miles. Make sure to stop at the many view points like Inspiration Point and get an astonishing view over the canyon. 
• Take a walk on one of the many trails between thousands of colorful rock formations, you’ll be amazed by these outstanding sceneries. 
• To learn more about the history of this stop of your 3-week road trip in Western USA, we recommend a guided hike that will take you to the most beautiful corners of the canyon!

 

Where to sleep in Bryce Canyon’s surroundings?

 

• Mid-range: Enjoy a great experience at Bryce Pioneer Village, a motel that doubles as a café and theatre! In addition to the comfort of the rooms, and the proximity to the canyon, you can also attend concerts or other shows. All this for a reasonable price in the area!
• High-end: You can have fun in this wonderful accommodation! Imagine a great house surrounded by a river and canyons… Welcome to Sevier River Retreat. The house is just incredible and we love the “lost in the middle of nowhere” aspect!

 

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What to do in Las Vegas?

Before getting to Las Vegas, go through Zion National Park. Drive through this national park and appreciate its red roads and unique mountains! A must-see!

Las Vegas, also known as « America’s playground» in the middle of the desert. Enjoy this mythical stop of your 3-week road trip in Western USA.

• Explore Las Vegas Boulevard, aka « the Strip », the 6km / 3.7 mile long city’s main artery and discover the many casinos, restaurants, hotels and shops.
• The Cosmopolitan, is a dream place. Sip on a cocktail while admiring the impressive 3-story high chandelier or get in the two giant high-heels designed by Roark Gourley.
• The Bellagio, a hotel and a casino with a beautiful Tuscany-architecture. You’ll be amazed by its artificial 3.5 ha lake and its magical dancing water jets. Inside, discover a remarkable sculpture and its 2000 hand-blown glass flowers.
• Mob Museum, the new mafia museum. Explore a 3-story museum about organized crime in the United States and its history in Las Vegas. Learn more about money laundering, listen to a tapped conversation and have your mugshot taken! You can buy your ticket here. 
• At night, take your chance in one of the many casinos or go see an amazing Cirque du Soleil show. We personally recommend the “O” show, which is truly unforgettable.  

 

Where to sleep in Las Vegas?

 

• Mid-range: Back in town, choose the Wyndham Grand Desert, a resort just a 5-minute walk from the Las Vegas Strip. The hotel offers, in addition to the impeccable comfort of the rooms, 3 swimming pools, 4 Jacuzzis, a gym and even a games room.
• High-end: For the ultimate luxury at a price that’s more reasonable than anywhere else in the country, check into The Venetian and settle into a spacious, luxurious suite with a view of the Vegas Strip! More than a hotel, it’s a real place to live. Everything is done so that you don’t leave the place! For example, there is a crazy number of swimming pools (more than 4800m2…).

 

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What to do in Death Valley?

This stop of your 3-week road trip in Western USA will give you  feel like you left Earth during a few hours with these lunar landscapes.

A national park sculpted by water with shredded mountains, sand dunes and shaded oases : drive through the canyon and marvel at the unique landscapes before you.  

• Zabriskie Point : enjoy a spectacular view at sunset. 
• Badwater : lowest point in the USA, 86 m / 282 ft below sea-level at Dante’s View.
• Golden Canyon & Natural Bridge : explore these sites during a short walk from the road. 
• Artists Drive : drive on this 15 km / 9 mile road winding through a narrow canyon. 
• Mesquite Flate : feel like you’re the last person on Earth while exploring the sand dunes. Come and see the view during a full moon, a unique show!
• Mozaic Canyon : climb on these smooth colourful marble walls. 

 

Where to sleep in Death Valley’s surroundings?

 

• Mid-range: Only 13km from the park entrance, the Death Valley Inn rooms are clean and comfortable in the heart of a typical town. The swimming pool and jacuzzi are a big bonuses with the heat it can reach in the summer!
• High-end: In the heart of Death Valley Park, The Inn will enhance your stay in this stop! Not only the rooms are top but the associated services are even nicer (swimming pool, sauna, gym…). No hesitation to have, you should book it!

 

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What to do in Sequoia National Park?

We could really call this place the “Giant forest”, as you won’t be able to look down during your visit of this stop of your 3-week road trip in Western USA. 

• Generals Highway (Hwy 198) : take this legendary road through the giant sequoias. 
• Giant Forest, 8 km2/ 3 square miles of forest protecting its tallest sequoias. Walk through this large network of trails and discover General Sherman Tree, the biggest tree in the world.
• Crystal Cave, a cave discovered in 1918. Explore the 10 000-year-old marble formations. 
• Mineral King : explore this 19th century digger and logger camp by taking a beautiful 40 km / 24 mile long twisty road.

 

Where to sleep in Sequoia National Park’s surroundings?

 

• Mid-range: Located directly inside the park, the Silver City Moutain Resort is a small haven of peace where you will enjoy yourself. The resort is a cabin lost in the forest from which you can go on an adventure.
• High-end: Rent the Shady Knoll house to explore the park and enjoy breathtaking views. The patio offers a great view! The little extra: the grill for a good American-style barbecue!

 

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What to do in Yosemite?

Spectacular valley. 

• Yosemite Falls, tallest falls in North America, 739m / 2424 ft tall! It is a must see of your 3-week road trip in Western USA.
• Go up Vernal Fall by taking granit stairs and get a vertical view of the fall and beautiful rainbows created by the sun reflection on the mist.
• Do not miss the huge El Capitan (2300 m / 7545 ft) and Half Dame (2695m / 8841ft).
  
• At Tunnel View on Hwy 41, take a a panoramic picture of the valley.
• Hike, camp, sky, swim and so much more in this gorgeous national park.

 

Where to sleep near Yosemite National Park?

 

• Mid-range: The Evergreen Lodge is a cocooning space perfect to relax after a day of hiking in the park. The advantages: the swimming pool, the games room, the bar/restaurant and the hot tub. We advise you to opt for the packed lunch!
• High-end: If it is still available, enjoy the Sunny Pines Cottage holiday home near the park entrance. The owners are very friendly and the cottage is beautiful. The added-bonus is the kitchen, which makes it easy to cook for yourself.

 

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What to do in San Francisco?

The city of 43-hill, 80-art-gallery, thousands of colours and astonishing views, is the perfect way to end your 3-week road trip in Western USA.

• Visit the Alcatraz, the iconic old prison. Take the ferry at Pier 33 and spend a few hours on the island, back in time. Get an audio-guide and explore the prison at your own pace. Tip 1: get your tickets before-hand and skip the line!  Tip 2: even if you are not a native english speaker, get the english audio-guide, narrators are real previous guards and inmates! 
• Castro, San Francisco’s gay district. Walk around this hype and colorful neighbourhood. Have a coffee while enjoying the sun and stop in one of the community gardens. 
• Mission District / Balmy Alley, hispanic and LGBTQ distric. Walk though this busy neighbourhood and appreciate the beautiful wall or garage door paintings in Balmy Alley.
• Dolores Park, historic place and meeting point. Have a pic-nic in the sun, play tennis or simply watch people passing by. A nice relaxing moment. 
• Fisherman’s Wharf, a long wharf along the city. Observe the sunbathing seals at Pier 39, eat a delicious burger from In&Out or attend an open-air concert. 
• Haight & Ashbury, 60s hippy neighbourhood. Explore the colorful shops selling weird objects and take a pic of Janis Joplin‘s famous pink house.
• Lombard Street : the iconic street with its 8 hairpin turns, beautiful flowers and brick houses.

 

More activities in San Francisco:

 

• Golden Gate Park, world’s largest urban park (over 400 ha!). Get lost in the huge forest in the middle of the city. Take a walk on Lands Ends to get to see ship wrecks and the Golden Gate Bridge.
• Baker Beach, previously a beach used by the army. Get a beautiful view of the Golden Gate. Treat yourself to a cruise in the bay for a chance to see the bridge up close! 
• Here as well we have a good deal for you: buy the Go City Pass to discover the best tourist attractions of the city for less money.

 

What to do in San Francisco’s surroundings?

 

• Wine lovers, you will be delighted! San Francisco is right next to wine country, so take the opportunity to spend a day in Napa and Sonoma Valley. You might even end up taking a bottle home with you!
• Up North of the city is the beautiful Muir Woods Park and its sequoias. A day-trip there is a perfect way to get away from the city for a few hours.
• A 1h15 drive South, go spend some time in Santa Cruz and its Capitola Village District. There, you will be able to enjoy the authentic Californian surf spirit.

 

Where to sleep in San Francisco?

 

• Mid-range: End your trip in style by choosing The Suites hotel right next to a cable car stop and right in the wharf district.  The rooms are great. The benefit is the roof-top perfect to enjoy a drink at sunset.
• High-end: In the heart of San Francisco, the Four Seasons Hotel is a luxurious establishment that will allow you to discover the city in the best conditions. The hotel offers a spa, indoor pool and even a restaurant. The beds are very comfortable and the rooms are spacious. The perfect way to end your trip!

 

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Learn more about your road trip to the US…

 

• You want to know all the information about the country? It’s here.
• To rent a car at the best price, we advise you this website.
• To book a flight at the best price, we advise you this website.
• You are looking for a great travel insurance for your 3-week road trip in Western USA? We recommend this one!

 

Do not hesitate to share your trip with us, we can’t wait to hear all about your adventures!

 

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If you have more information, good deals, or any advice to share about this itinerary, leave a comment below! Our team will be happy to hear about your experiences!