Begin your inspiring journey across the USA through the country’s most vibrant cities, historic districts, and breathtaking national parks. Whether you’re captivated by the thrill of a helicopter ride over the Grand Canyon, the tranquillity of a day trip through the Pacific Northwest, or the cultural richness of fine arts tours in New York’s Rockefeller Centre, this collection of themed mini-itineraries showcases the best experiences the United States has to offer. Let’s dive in with Designer Journeys!
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Best Time to Visit USA
The best time to visit the United States depends on your planned destinations and activities:
Spring (March–May): Mild weather in most areas, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. Ideal for cities and national parks.
Summer (June–August): Peak tourist season, especially for coastal regions and national parks. Expect higher prices and larger crowds, but also many festivals and outdoor events.
Autumn (September–November): Pleasant temperatures, stunning fall foliage in the Northeast and Midwest, and fewer tourists. Good for road trips and nature travel.
Winter (December–February): Best for winter sports in mountain areas and warm-weather escapes in the South and Southwest. Be aware that northern cities can be cold and snowy.
The best time to visit the United States depends on your planned destinations.
Remember to check local event calendars and weather patterns before finalising your dates.
Are you planning a trip to United States?
Browse our gallery of fully customisable United States itineraries and connect with one of our expert Local Designers to get you started! Designer Journeys can design your ultimate experience and offers hand-crafted itineraries built by experienced Local Designers who have first-hand knowledge of the destination.
Best United States Itineraries for you
1. Florida Winter Escape
Destinations: Orlando, Miami, Kennedy Space Centre, Universal Studios
Enjoying thrilling rides and exploring the magic in Universal Studios.
Best time: Winter to spring (peak season)
- Begin your journey at the Kennedy Space Centre, where a private VIP tour gives you behind-the-scenes access to this world-renowned space museum.
- Spend a few days in Orlando with priority access to Universal Studios—enjoying thrilling rides and exploring the magic with a private guide. Families can visit LEGOLAND Florida and experience Fun Spot America in nearby Orlando, before heading south to Miami.
- In Miami, explore the vibrant city’s historic Art Deco district, relax at a luxury resort near South Beach, and indulge in delicious food along Ocean Drive.
- Cap off your Florida adventure with a scenic helicopter ride along the coast or an exclusive yacht charter to Key West and the Florida Keys.
Tailored tips: Couples and solo travellers might enjoy spa treatments and the Neon Museum, while families appreciate custom children’s activities and time to save money with bundled VIP experiences.
2. Wild West & National Parks Adventure
Destinations: Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Bryce Canyon, Arches National Park, Monument Valley
A classic USA road trip to the Grand Canyon.
Best time: Spring or fall (to avoid extreme weather)
- Begin in Sin City—Las Vegas—where you’ll stay at the iconic Bellagio Hotel, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and experience the vibrant nightlife.
- Set off on a classic USA road trip to the Grand Canyon. Take a private helicopter ride above the canyon’s vast expanse, then drive a few hours north to Bryce Canyon and Arches National Park, home to some of the world’s most stunning hiking trails and sand dunes.
- Venture further to Monument Valley for mountain biking, stargazing, and exclusive guided tours that immerse you in the area’s natural history.
- Conclude your Wild West adventure with a final destination at the Neon Museum in Las Vegas, or extend your trip west to California’s Yosemite National Park for more world-class hiking.
Tailored tips: Families can opt for accessible walks and guided tours, while couples and solo travellers relish exclusive outdoor experiences and the chance to explore downtown Las Vegas or relax poolside.
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3. East Coast Discovery
Destinations: New York, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, Shenandoah National Park, Blue Ridge Mountains, Atlanta
Statue Liberty and New York city skyline at sunset.
Best time: Spring, early summer, or fall
- Begin your East Coast exploration in New York. Stay near Central Park, tour the Empire State Building, and take in fine arts at the Met and MoMA. Experience the pulse of Rockefeller Centre and stroll along Broadway and Times Square for a taste of classic American pop culture.
- Take a quick flight south to Washington, D.C. for private tours of the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, White House, and Capitol Hill. Don’t miss the National Air and Space Museum, the African American History Museum, and the powerful Martin Luther King Jr. and Civil Rights Movement sites.
- Head a few hours east to Philadelphia to visit Independence Hall, then journey south to Atlanta. Here, the Atlanta Botanical Garden and the Country Music Hall await, as does a deeper look into the city’s rich civil rights history.
- For nature lovers, explore the Blue Ridge Mountains, Shenandoah National Park, or take a day trip to Acadia National Park in Maine.
Tailored tips: Senior travellers and families will appreciate relaxed city walking tours, while solo travellers can take in live jazz and fine dining. Couples may enjoy a romantic evening at a rooftop restaurant or a performance at the Grand Ole Opry.
4. Alaska & The Great Outdoors
Destinations: Anchorage, Denali, Glacier National Park, Yellowstone National Park
Hiker in front of Mount Denali.
Best time: Summer (avoid freezing cold and extreme weather)
- Arrive in Anchorage and set out on a luxurious rail journey to Denali. Enjoy a private wildlife safari and guided hiking in Glacier National Park.
- Take a scenic flight over Yellowstone National Park and explore geothermal wonders and wildlife with a naturalist guide.
- Experience mountain biking, gentle hikes, or a few days in a secluded lodge surrounded by breathtaking scenery.
Tailored tips: Families love glacier cruises and gentle trails, while the older enjoy accessible sightseeing and private transfers. Couples and solo travellers savour exclusive outdoor adventures and gourmet meals with panoramic mountain views.
5. Hawaii All‑Season Retreat
Destinations: Oahu, Maui, Honolulu
Explore the local food scene and enjoy your retreat in Hawaii.
Best time: Year-round
- Start in Honolulu with a luxury stay near Waikiki Beach, explore the local food scene, and visit Imiloa Astronomy Centre and the Bishop Museum.
- Take a private car along Maui’s scenic road to Hana, stopping at natural history sites and stunning sand dunes.
- Unwind at a spa, enjoy mountain biking, or try surfing lessons on Waikiki Beach.
Tailored tips: Families will enjoy curated child-friendly activities, while couples and solo travellers can join cultural classes or exclusive snorkelling tours.
F.A.Q.
How many days are enough for a USA trip?
A week is great for exploring one region; two to three weeks lets you see more highlights. For a coast-to-coast experience, plan at least three weeks.
What is the best USA road trip?
Top picks: Pacific Coast Highway, Route 66, and the Wild West loop (Grand Canyon, Arches, Bryce Canyon). All offer classic scenery and unique stops.
How many days does it take to travel the whole United States?
A full coast-to-coast trip, with highlights like San Francisco’s Golden Gate Bridge, the Mississippi River, and the Blue Ridge Mountains, typically takes three to six weeks for a comprehensive adventure.
How to spend 7 days in the USA?
Focus on one region: East Coast cities, West Coast highlights, national parks, or a Wild West adventure. Pick a theme for the best experience.
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These themed itineraries can be enjoyed on the same trip or experienced separately, depending on your interests and time available. Whether your focus is on the West Coast, East Coast, or an epic USA road trip connecting vibrant cities and iconic national parks, the flexibility to explore downtown, discover fine arts, or relax on Venice Beach is always yours. Savour delicious food, explore natural history, and make the final stretch of your adventure as luxurious or adventurous as you wish. And remember, balance your ambitions with practical considerations like logistics and budget. Create a personalised plan that promises an unforgettable adventure. Lift up your luggage and get ready for an unforgettable journey in the land of the free.
Explore the US in a longer day? Check out these itineraries for inspiration:
13-Day Southwestern Panoramas Self-Drive Tour
