UPDATE: January 2024
Finally, the time has come again. After more than three years, I’m heading back to the USA. In fact, it’s kind of an anniversary trip—my tenth visit since 1994. And I can’t deny it: this country feels like a second home to me. I just love the “Stars and Stripes” and the “American Way of Life.” Traveling is my passion, and when the pandemic hit, international travel came to a near standstill. Countries completely closed their borders or could only be entered with significant effort and long quarantine periods.
After my trip to Puerto Rico in November/December 2019, my first long-distance journey wasn’t possible again until November 2021—this time to beautiful Thailand for three weeks. Back then, Thailand was one of the few long-haul destinations you could enter without a lengthy quarantine. But preparing for that trip was hell, and up until the end of October, we didn’t even know if the trip would actually happen. Only in November was the Thailand Pass introduced, which reduced the 14-day quarantine to just one night—provided the PCR test in Bangkok came back negative. Thankfully, mine did, and nothing stood in the way of our adventure. Looking back, the trip was an absolute dream—especially because of the person who accompanied me. Someone who will always be important to me.
That trip to Thailand reignited the spark in me. Anyone who shares my love for travel knows this feeling—that inner urge to go far away. Like having ants in your pants. Sitting still just isn’t an option. And so the next destination has to be one that promises new stories to remember. After such a long travel drought during COVID, I honestly didn’t care whether I was revisiting a place or discovering it for the first time. Back in 2015, I was already on a three-week road trip through the western USA with an awesome crew—Insa, Kati, and Guido. You can see the results of that trip here:
And this destination was calling me once again — especially because I know how incredible my memories of that trip still are. I made myself one promise: to plan the second time completely differently and make up for what I missed back then.
This time, I’ll be accompanied by a good friend who has never left Europe before — and therefore never been to the United States. And just between us: anyone who’s already experienced the USA, especially the American West, knows exactly what’s in store for her. Her brain will practically explode with the sheer volume of breathtaking impressions. 😊 I can’t wait to watch her take it all in and fall in love with the U.S.
But back to the plan: 3.5 weeks exploring the American West.
That’s the trip!
Day 1
The Arrival
On September 1st, we’ll head out in the morning from Düsseldorf, flying with Air France via Paris to California — to the City of Angels: Los Angeles! We’ll land there in the afternoon, local time, and hope to get a good car from our chosen category at AVIS. Since it’s hard to predict how long immigration and the car rental process will take, I’ve booked our first night at a hotel not far from the airport. That way, we can ease into the trip without stress and not worry if things take a bit longer.
Day 2
Welcome America // Bye Bye LA
On September 2nd, we’ll leave Los Angeles after a relaxed breakfast and head east. We won’t see much of this iconic city just yet — we’ve saved that for the end of our trip. After about 200 km, we’ll reach Palm Springs, a desert oasis known not only for its hot springs and striking architecture but also for the famous Coachella Festival held nearby in the Coachella Valley. We’ll explore the town a bit and maybe even check out the Palm Springs Air Museum. Before heading to our hotel in Yucca Valley, we’ll grab a bite at Bill’s Pizza — a real insider tip!
Day 3
Joshua Tree National Park
The next morning, we’ll set off early for the first national park on our tour: Joshua Tree. Sunrise light in this park, with its surreal landscape and otherworldly trees, is simply something you can’t miss. Around midday, we’ll leave the park and head towards Kingman, Arizona — the heart of Route 66. We’ll likely arrive in the early evening and, after checking into our hotel, refuel at the town’s most iconic diner: Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner.
Day 4
Route 66 & The Glory of the Old Days
After breakfast, we’ll hit one of the most legendary stretches of Route 66 — from Kingman to Seligman. Along the way, we’ll see and feel the magic of the Mother Road, with vintage charm still alive in many places. But we’re not done yet. Our next destination — vast and indescribable — is waiting to be discovered: THE GRAND CANYON!
In the afternoon, we’ll check into our hotel, just a stone’s throw away from the canyon itself. This will give us time to soak in a peaceful and unforgettable sunset over the canyon. During my last road trip through the West in 2015, I missed out on that moment — our hotel back then was in Kingman, after we had already visited the canyon.
Day 5
GRAND CANYON National Park
Since we’re staying right at the Grand Canyon, it would be a crime to miss the sunrise. So once again, the early bird catches the worm – we’ll be at the rim before the sun comes up. 😊 I’m absolutely sure that getting out of bed in the middle of the night will be more than worth it.
We’ll spend the morning and early afternoon exploring the park, walking along the rim, and soaking in every viewpoint. Optionally, we might even take a helicopter ride over the canyon in the morning – we’ll decide on the spot.
After making the most of our time at this breathtaking location, we’ll hit the road and head to Page at Lake Powell, where we’ll be staying for the next two nights.
Day 6
A New Canyon, Antelopes & a Horseshoe to Marvel At
Page – a green oasis in the middle of a barren landscape. Today, we’re off to explore the area, and there’s certainly no shortage of wonders. First up: the Antelope Canyon, famous for its magical light beams and wave-like walls. Then there’s Horseshoe Bend, the dramatic horseshoe-shaped curve of the Colorado River, best viewed from 300 meters above. Also on the list: Lake Powell and the impressive Glen Canyon Dam.
And in the evening? A true gem of American food culture: Big John’s Texas BBQ. I was here back in 2015, and it was an absolute feast. My mouth is already watering. Yammy!
Day 7
“Come to Marlboro Country!”
Today, we hit the road at 8 a.m. Our goal is to reach Monument Valley between 11 and 12. If we’re lucky, we might already be able to check in so we can continue our northern route tour with an empty car. We’ll fully explore Monument Valley tomorrow. First up today is the famous Forrest Gump Point, where Forrest suddenly ends his constant run between the East and West Coast and simply tells his followers, “I’m going home now.” Then we head to Mexican Hat, followed by the Valley of the Gods, Moki Dugway, and finally the Muley Point. A packed itinerary, but one that will be worth it. I imagine we’ll be starving by the end of it, and we’ll satisfy that hunger on the way back to the hotel at The Swinging Steak—a legendary steakhouse in the middle of nowhere. Rustic and authentic, just like real cowboys and cowgirls. 😊 We shouldn’t stay up too late either, because tomorrow starts in the middle of the night.
Day 8
Monument Valley in the American Southwest
Today, we’re doing a sunrise tour through Monument Valley. A real Navajo native will guide us for three hours, telling us about the valley—and more importantly, showing it to us. This landscape is absolutely breathtaking. How do I know? Because I was already here back in 1994 on my first trip to the U.S.! After soaking up the spirit of the Wild West for almost a day and a half, we’ll head off around noon towards our next destination: Bryce Canyon, heading west. That afternoon will be spent in the car—about 400 km—to Panguitch, where a cozy little Western-style motel will be waiting for us.
Day 9
Bryce Canyon National Park
By now, we’re pros at early starts—so today we’re getting up super early again to reach Bryce Canyon before sunrise. This national park is famous for its red rock spires called Hoodoos. And there’s a reason we’re coming so early—the park’s most iconic viewpoints are called Sunrise Point, Sunset Point, Inspiration Point, and Bryce Point, after all. We’ll spend the first half of the day exploring the park and doing some light hiking. Then we’ll head to our next destination, about 200 km away, where we’ll stay for two nights: Hurricane. (Not to be confused with the Hurricane Festival! 😊)
Day 10
Zion National Park: Where Angels Land
Today, we’ll spend the whole day in the iconic Zion National Park—and I promise, it’ll be worth every second. First, we’ll take on Angels Landing. This 1,765-meter-high rock formation can be climbed all the way to the top. However, since 2022, you need a permit to access the summit. Due to the massive increase in visitors over the past years—and the fact that since 2000, 14 people have died on the Angels Landing Trail—this step was unfortunately necessary. Hopefully, we’ll be able to snag a permit. I’m optimistic, since September is no longer peak season. We’ll likely need 3–5 hours for this epic hike.
If we start early, we might have time for another highlight: The Zion Narrows. This hike through a riverbed with towering canyon walls is guaranteed to cool us down. Armed with waterproof shoes and a walking stick, we’ll wade through the river and take in the awe-inspiring scenery. By the end of the day, I suspect we’ll barely manage to eat something before happily collapsing into bed—tired but full of unforgettable impressions.
Day 11
Viva Las Vegas – or shall we say: New York, New York!
After the breathtaking experiences nature has gifted us in the national parks over the past days, it’s time to return to civilization. For the next two nights, we’ll be staying in the world-famous gambling city of Las Vegas. The irony? We’re checking into the “New York, New York” hotel. You couldn’t make this up. 😊
But before we dive into the city of lights and slot machines, we’ll take a short detour to the Valley of Fire, Nevada’s oldest and largest state park, known for its blazing red sandstone formations.
Once we arrive in Las Vegas, we’ll check in and maybe take some time to explore the hotel. Early evening, we head into the hustle and bustle for a walk along The Strip. Even though I’ve been here twice before, I’m sure the third time will still feel like a spectacle.
Optional highlight: A ride on the High Roller, the world’s second-highest observation wheel – just behind the one in Dubai. From up there, we’ll enjoy a magnificent view of the city’s chaos below.
Day 12
What happens in Vegas… well, ends up in my video! 😊
We’ll start the day slowly and enjoy a leisurely breakfast – either at our hotel or at the Planet Hollywood Hotel. Back in 2015, we had breakfast there, and it was great – huge selection, reasonable price (for Vegas standards, anyway).
After fueling up, we’ll explore parts of the city and hotels we didn’t get to see yesterday. By early evening, we’re heading toward Old Las Vegas – the historic part of town where the very first casinos were built.
Another full day of exploring, walking, and soaking it all in. Safe to say, our feet will definitely know what we’ve been up to. 😊
Day 13
It’s gonna be hot, baby – Death Valley says hello!
Holy moly! Today’s the longest drive of the trip – roughly 475 km. Our route takes us through Death Valley, one of the hottest places on Earth. Summer temperatures here regularly hit around 50°C (122°F).
By evening, we’ll arrive in Bishop – not exactly a must-see town, but a perfect overnight stop before heading straight into Yosemite National Park the next morning.
Day 14
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite isn’t just one of the most beautiful parks in the heart of the Sierra Nevada – it’s also the most direct scenic route toward San Francisco.
We’ll take the famous Panoramic Road through Yosemite Valley (about 42 km), offering views of iconic landmarks like Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, and Bridalveil Falls.
We’ll stop at every viewpoint, soak in the beauty, and make the most of the day until late afternoon, when we exit the park and drive west toward Oakdale.
Another day that will leave us exhausted but happy.
Day 15/16/17
San Francisco
Today, we’ll once again ease into the day and set off toward San Francisco around 9–10 a.m.
On the way, a stop at a fashion outlet might finally be in order – time to do a little shopping! 😊 Though let’s be real: the epic pre-COVID deals are probably a thing of the past…
Now to our Airbnb – because if you’ve ever been to San Francisco, you know hotel prices here were already outrageous before COVID. These days? Astronomical. And even Airbnb isn’t exactly cheap. But hey, the city is worth every cent. I love it here.
We have 2.5 days to experience as much as possible. Maybe we’ll already get a taste of the city on arrival.
Our plans? Walking across the Golden Gate Bridge, cruising around on the iconic Cable Car, and doing the Alcatraz Night Tour. I’ve visited the prison island back in 2015, but I’d love to return at night – the evening tour is supposed to have a particularly eerie charm.
And since we’ll be in the city on a Saturday night, we might as well check out the nightlife. This could very well turn into the first long night of the trip!
For more, I recommend reading my travel post:
“San Francisco – Or how this city made me fall head over heels in love”
Day 18
Monterey
Most likely, we’ll leave San Francisco a little hungover and a little late – but in good spirits – and head south to Monterey. It’s only about 190 km, so today’s drive is relaxed.
No big plans – just a calm day to unwind and enjoy a lovely Sunday by the Pacific Coast.
Mein erster Besuch am Highway No.1 in 1994
Day 19
Highway No. 1 – The Road of Dreams
Today, another major highlight awaits us: the legendary Highway No. 1 – also known as the Road of Dreams. It’s one of the most scenic coastal roads in the world, where one jaw-dropping sight follows the next like sparkling pearls on a string. We’ll pass the iconic Bixby Creek Bridge, the stunning 120-kilometer coastal stretch of Big Sur, the fantasy-like Hearst Castle, the quaint Danish-style town of Solvang, and finally arrive in Santa Barbara, one of the most charming cities in the United States – and our stop for the night.
In short: a full-on sensory overload packed into nearly 400 kilometers of pure coastal magic.
Days 20 / 21 / 22
Los Angeles – The Grand Finale
Today starts off a little more relaxed – after all, Los Angeles is only about 170 kilometers away. We’re slowly returning to where our adventure began, and the end of the journey is drawing near.
But first, we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast at our cozy hotel in Santa Barbara, before diving headfirst into 2.5 epic days in the City of Angels.
Expect the full L.A. experience: strolling down Hollywood Boulevard, spotting stars on the Walk of Fame, watching the sun set from the iconic Griffith Observatory, cruising along the famous Mulholland Drive through the Hollywood Hills, and maybe even visiting the Universal Studios.
Of course, we’ll also hit Venice Beach and stand where Route 66 ends at the legendary Santa Monica Pier.
A full-on Los Angeles package – and the perfect grand finale to what will hopefully have been a breathtaking journey through the American West.
Am Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles in 2015.
Day 23
Departure Day
At some point, unfortunately, every journey must come to an end — and today is that day. Around midday, our flight departs from Los Angeles, with a layover in Paris, before heading back to Düsseldorf.
Travel Itinerary:
Tag 1: Düsseldorf – Paris – Los Angeles – Best Western Plus Lawndale
Tag 2: Los Angeles – Palm Springs – Yucca Valley – Super 8 by Wyndham Yucca Val
Tag 3: Yucca Valley – Joshua Tree National – Kingman – Ramada by Wyndham Kingman
Tag 4: Kingman – Route 66 – Grand Canyon – Red Feather Lodge
Tag 5: Grand Canyon – Page – Wingate by Wyndham Page Lake Powell
Tag 6: Page – Wingate by Wyndham Page Lake Powell
Tag 7: Page – Monument Valley – Gouldings Lodge
Tag 8: Monument Valley – Panguitch – Blue Pine Motel
Tag 9: Panguitch – Bryce Canyon National Park – Hurricane – Super 8 by Wyndham Hurricane
Tag 10: Hurricane – Zion National Park – Super 8 by Wyndham Hurricane
Tag 11: Hurricane – Valley of Fire – Las Vegas – Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Tag 12: Las Vegas – Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino
Tag 13: Las Vegas – Death- Valley – Bishop – Days Inn by Wyndham Bishop
Tag 14: Bishop – Yosemite National Park – Oakdale – Best Western Plus Rama Inn & Suites
Tag 15: Oakdale – San Francisco – AIRBNB, 440 Corbett Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94114
Tag 16: San Francisco – AIRBNB, 440 Corbett Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94114
Tag 17: San Francisco – AIRBNB, 440 Corbett Avenue, San Francisco, CA 94114
Tag 18: San Francisco – Monterey – The Stevenson Monterey
Tag 19: Monterey – Highway No.1 – Santa Barbara – Inn at East Beach
Tag 20: Santa Barbara – Los Angeles – Dunes Inn – Sunset
Tag 21: Los Angeles – Dunes Inn – Sunset
Tag 22: Los Angeles – Dunes Inn – Sunset
Tag 23: Los Angeles – Paris – Düsseldorf
Fixed costs after the tour has been completed.
