USA: LA to Miami | 2024
USA: LA to Miami | 2024
USA: LA to Miami | 2024
21 Days Starting in Los Angeles (CA) and ending in Miami (FL)
Visiting: Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Seligman (AZ), Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Durango, Santa Fe, Amarillo, Fort Worth, Memphis, New Orleans, Panama City Beach, Orlando, Miami
Tour operator:
Tour code:
GSLAA19
Specialist Group:
18-30 Somethings
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
0 - 54
Age range:
18-35
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Grand Southern" tour and experience the best of the USA, from the glitz of Los Angeles to the vibrant culture of Miami. Start your adventure in LA, exploring iconic spots like Beverly Hills and Venice Beach, before heading to the dazzling lights of Las Vegas. Marvel at the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon and Monument Valley, then dive into the rich musical heritage of Memphis and New Orleans. Relax on the pristine beaches of Panama City and get your adrenaline fix at Orlando's Universal Studios. Conclude your journey in Miami, soaking up the Art Deco charm and lively nightlife. This tour promises unforgettable memories and new friendships along the way.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Start Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kawada Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to LA, home to celeb-swamped suburbs, blistering beaches, open-air gyms and of course, all things Hollywood. We’ll start our West Coast adventure with a visit to Beverly Hills, plus Venice Beach and a wander around Santa Monica. Does it get more star-studded than this? We think not.
Day 2: Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Kawada Hotel (or similar)
Today is yours to explore. You can opt to visit Disneyland, see what’s popping at the LA Live entertainment venue, or do some shopping at the garment district. There’s also the Grammy Museum and downtown LA food tour – helping the foodies taste all of the wonders of this true multicultural food Mecca.
Day 3: Los Angeles To Las Vegas
Location: Los Angeles, Las Vegas
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Strat Hotel & Casino (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
We'll kick things off today in the famed City of Angels, where we'll set off through the Mojave Desert, marveling at the majestic Joshua Trees, before reaching the one and only Las Vegas.
On arrival we'll cruise the iconic strip & check out the Vegas sign. Tonight, choose to hang out around Fremont Street or opt for a VIP nightclub experience for the kind of glitzy night out that only Vegas can provide.
Day 4: Las Vegas
Location: Las Vegas
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Strat Hotel & Casino (or similar)
You're in Vegas, baby! And the city's weird & wonderful charm isn't going to uncover itself. Experience the grandeur of the city's opulent casinos as we stroll down the strip and dance the night away, this is the perfect way to bond with your Contiki family, Vegas style.
Day 5: Las Vegas To The Grand Canyon
Location: Las Vegas, Seligman (AZ), Grand Canyon
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Red Feather Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we'll leave the glittering lights of Vegas behind for something even more jaw-dropping.
Cruising the historic route 66, we'll stop for some photo ops before reaching the Grand Canyon National Park (entrance included, naturally).
We've arrived at another one of our jaw-dropping highlights of this trip... The Grand Canyon! And if you’re here during the summer months, you’ll get to set up camp at Under Canvas – a Special Stay where the views and vibes are simply sublime. (Here during the winter? Fear not, we'll bed down at the Red Feather Lodge which is just nearby.)
Day 6: The Grand Canyon
Location: Grand Canyon
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: Red Feather Lodge (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today we’ll have a free day to spend in the Grand Canyon National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). We’ll hike (and bike) through the exposed rock, feel our spines tingle on a unique helicopter ride(!), and then gather in the evening to watch one of the world’s most mesmerizing sunsets.
Day 7: Grand Canyon To Durango
Location: Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Durango
Accommodation Name: Days Inn by Wyndham (or similar)
Meals Included: Dinner
With the beauty of the Grand Canyon imprinted on our brains forever, we'll journey past some Wild Western landscapes towards...
This monumental place has an iconic cluster of sandstone buttes, and we'll get a chance to visit the Monument Valley Tribal park as we wind our way through the Rocky Mountains
We've arrived in our home for the evening, Colorado's adventure capital: Durango
Day 8: Durango To Santa Fe
Location: Durango, Santa Fe
Accommodation: Lodge
Accommodation Name: The Lodge at Santa Fe (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
The great outdoors is a way of life in Durango with adrenaline pumping river rafting on offer to you and your fellow thrill seekers. This afternoon it’s a total change of scenery when we enter New Mexico, where sun-baked earthen brick buildings stand out against the bright blue sky.
Boasting influences from Mexico, Spain, and Native American cultures, historic Santa Fe is a true melting pot of culture. Take a walk around town to see interesting styles of architecture, shop for beautiful turquoise jewelery in the market and sample all of the different types of regional food on offer.
Day 9: Santa Fe To Amarillo
Location: Santa Fe, Amarillo
Accommodation Name: Big Texan Inn (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise and shine! Does anyone know the way to Amarillo? We're headed to this larger than life city this morning.
In true Americana Style, we'll visit Cadillac Ranch – a unique art exhibit celebrating the golden age of Cadillacs. Tonight’s accommodation even has a Texas-shaped pool and a hotel for your horse (you know, just in case you need it). Tonight, you can try the ‘Big Texan Steak Challenge’ for a true ‘Man vs Food’ moment. Eternal glory awaits anyone who can finish this Texas-sized meal in one hour or less.
Day 10: Amarillo To Fort Worth
Location: Amarillo, Fort Worth
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Worth Downtown (or Similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We'll say farewell to Amarillo and sweet Marie today as we head towards a Texan icon.
Here in the land of leather boots & Cadillacs, you'll soon learn that ‘bigger is better' is a way of life. An overnight stay in the cowboy town of Fort Worth will give you the full Texan experience.
Day 11: Dallas/Fort Worth
Location: Fort Worth
Accommodation Name: Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Worth Downtown (or Similar)
Today we'll dive deep into the Texan way of life. We'll see a cattle drive, visit the Dealey Plaza and have the option to see the 6th floor museum.
Day 12: Dallas/Fort Worth To Memphis
Location: Fort Worth, Memphis
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Memphis Downtown (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Swinging past Little Rock High School, a historic site of the Civil Rights movement, we'll head to a place with a big rock 'n roll heritage.
We'll get a city orientation of musical Memphis this afternoon, with a whole day of sightseeing awaiting us tomorrow.
Day 13: Memphis
Location: Memphis
Accommodation Name: Crowne Plaza Memphis Downtown (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Today's the day to get into the history of music your way. We'll start with a visit to Sun Studios where Elvis recorded his very first song. Want more? Why not check out Graceland, the home of the King, or the Rock and Soul Museum.
Day 14: Memphis To New Orleans
Location: Memphis, New Orleans
Accommodation Name: La Quinta Inn and Suites New Orleans Downtown (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
We'll say farewell to Memphis today as we head to somewhere with a meaty musical heritage of its own.
After some free time to explore this hearteningly soulful city, we’ll turn up the volume and hit Bourbon Street to sample the live music and lively bar culture. This evening, venture out for a New Orleans dinner, to taste all the melting pot of flavors this fascinating place has to offer.
Day 15: New Orleans
Location: New Orleans
Accommodation Name: La Quinta Inn and Suites New Orleans Downtown (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Now that you know New Orleans like one of the locals, it's your day to do your own thing. Stroll down Frenchmen street for the sounds of jazz and funk, head to the vast grassy oasis of the city park or check out the New Orleans museum of art for an extensive collection of gorgeous French masterpieces. Our recommendation? Head to the SoFAB – Southern Food & Beverage Museum for some classic gumbo, or experience your own Airboat adventure.
Day 16: New Orleans To Panama City Beach
Location: New Orleans, Panama City Beach
Accommodation Name: Baymont by Wyndham Panama City Beach (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leaving New Orleans won't be easy, but knowing we're bound for one of the “world's most beautiful beaches” helps.
There's only one way to test the rumours, so we'll take a dip in the crystal clear waters and kick back on the pure white sands of Panama City Beach.
Day 17: Panama City Beach To Orlando
Location: Panama City Beach, Orlando
Accommodation Name: Baymont by Wyndham Universal Blvd (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tear yourself away from the beach, there are exciting times ahead!
We arrive in Orlando today with a trip to Universal Studios on the cards. We hope you budgeted for butterbeer.
Day 18: Orlando
Location: Orlando
Accommodation Name: Baymont by Wyndham Universal Blvd (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today is your opportunity to visit the epic Universal Studios, where you can visit Diagon Alley, splash around in the vast water park or visit the islands of adventure. There's something for everyone in this dizzying spectacle of rides, film and entertainment.
Day 19: Orlando To Miami
Location: Orlando, Miami
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Catalina Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
We'll venture south to glamorous Miami today.
A little mouthwatering Cuban cuisine will get us in the mood with a delicious regional group deal setting the scene for two full days of art deco & celeb-spotting in this tropical paradise. For anyone looking for an adrenaline rush, the option is there for a Thriller Speedboat across the bay.
Day 20: Miami
Location: Miami
Accommodation Name: Catalina Hotel (or similar)
Meals Included: Breakfast
It's time for some magical Miami sightseeing today. We'll head downtown and of course the South Beach. Options for a bike down the beach, a clearwater kayaking float, or party in the city where the heat is on.
Day 21: End Miami
Location: Miami
Meals Included: Breakfast
Time to say goodbye to your crew. It's been a blast, but all good things must come to an end. With our sun-kissed skin and eyes on the next horizon, it's time to plan our next Contiki. Peru, anyone?
What's Included
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Grand Canyon National Park Entrance
Entrance to the Grand Canyon National Park is included.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour.
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Meals
Some meals are included during the tour, such as breakfasts and dinners.
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Transportation
Transportation between destinations is included.
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City Orientation Tours
Orientation tours in cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Memphis, and New Orleans are included.
What's Not Included
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Optional Activities
Optional activities such as visiting Disneyland, VIP nightclub experiences in Las Vegas, and helicopter rides over the Grand Canyon are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Flights
Flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation between destinations is included, with travel through iconic locations such as the Mojave Desert, Route 66, and various cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Miami.
Accommodation
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour, including stays at the Kawada Hotel in Los Angeles, The Strat Hotel & Casino in Las Vegas, and the Red Feather Lodge near the Grand Canyon.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?
Accommodation is provided at various hotels and lodges throughout the tour, including places like Kawada Hotel in Los Angeles, Tropicana Hotel in Las Vegas, and Under Canvas Grand Canyon.
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Are meals included in the tour?
Some meals are included during the tour, such as breakfasts and dinners.
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Is transportation between destinations included?
Yes, transportation between destinations is included in the tour.
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Are there any city orientation tours included?
Yes, orientation tours in cities like Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Memphis, and New Orleans are included.
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What optional activities are available during the tour?
Optional activities include visiting Disneyland, VIP nightclub experiences in Las Vegas, and helicopter rides over the Grand Canyon.
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Is travel insurance included in the tour package?
No, travel insurance is not included and must be purchased separately.
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Are flights to and from the starting and ending locations included?
No, flights to and from the starting and ending locations are not included.
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What is the starting location of the tour?
The tour starts in Los Angeles, California.
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What is the ending location of the tour?
The tour ends in Miami, Florida.
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What kind of activities can I expect in Las Vegas?
In Las Vegas, you can experience the grandeur of the city's opulent casinos, stroll down the strip, and have the option for a VIP nightclub experience.
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What can I do during the free day at the Grand Canyon?
During the free day at the Grand Canyon, you can hike, bike, or take a unique helicopter ride over the canyon.
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What cultural experiences are included in Santa Fe?
In Santa Fe, you can explore the historic town, see interesting styles of architecture, shop for turquoise jewelry, and sample different types of regional food.
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What is the 'Big Texan Steak Challenge' in Amarillo?
The 'Big Texan Steak Challenge' is a food challenge where you can attempt to finish a Texas-sized meal in one hour or less for eternal glory.
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What musical heritage sites can I visit in Memphis?
In Memphis, you can visit Sun Studios where Elvis recorded his first song, Graceland, and the Rock and Soul Museum.
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What activities are available in New Orleans?
In New Orleans, you can stroll down Frenchmen Street for jazz and funk, visit the New Orleans Museum of Art, and try classic gumbo at the Southern Food & Beverage Museum.
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What can I do in Orlando?
In Orlando, you can visit Universal Studios, explore Diagon Alley, splash around in the water park, or visit the Islands of Adventure.
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What activities are available in Miami?
In Miami, you can enjoy Cuban cuisine, take a Thriller Speedboat ride across the bay, bike down the beach, kayak in clear waters, or party in the city.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
In 1961, a guy called John Anderson founded Contiki in New Zealand. Whilst later bought by The Travel Corporation, the tour company had already been using the name ‘Contiki’ since its inception.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
Contiki trips are designed & operated exclusively for those aged 18-35 years. Your travelling companions will be like-minded adventurers within that age range. The age range is adhered to strictly.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® is our commitment to protect people, wildlife and the incredible planet we all share. Powered by The TreadRight Foundation, a non-profit organisation and Contiki’s guiding hand when it comes to making travel matter.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
All documentation will be sent via email around 21 days prior to your trip departure. You can also access information on your trip by signing up to My Contiki via the top right icon of the homepage.
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.