It's no wonder that a lot of tourists visit the American West as their initial destination in the United States. However, with an overwhelming number of attractions and a scattered geography, it makes route planning feel complicated. Instead of trying to do everything, consider driving a logical loop, avoid backtracking, and dedicate time to all the cities, coastlines, deserts, and national parks that the region has to offer.
The American West is home to four major cities including Los Angeles, San Francisco, Las Vegas, and Seattle. In addition to having major cities, there is an extraordinary number of parks across the country including Yellowstone, The Grand Canyon, and Yosemite. With the region's generally mild weather, there is entertainment culture, iconic landscapes, and a mix of American life. A West Coast trip should feel unhurried, open, and free. Most of the area does not have public transportation, making driving the most effective travel method.
With an area encompassing over two million square kilometers, LA is the second most populous city in the United States after New York, and is one of the most important stops on the west coast for a variety of reasons including important cultural centers, art and trendsetting neighborhoods, and major theme parks. There are mountains to the north and east, with the pacific ocean to the west. The city has a vast horizontal expanse with a majority of it spread across a massive basin and has laid down too many people to count. The boundaries of the city and the mountains are not sharp, and there are too many people to count. The city has a close to 300 days a year.
Travelers who dislike high temperatures may want to skip July and August though these months are ideal for water sports.
Main attractions:
Universal Studios Hollywood
Overview: Universal Studios Hollywood is a movie theme park with an active movie and television studio complex located northwest of downtown Los Angeles. In addition to rides and attractions based on movies, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and other things, the Studio Tour shows visitors how movies are made and the real filming sites.
Location: 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City, CA 91608, USA
Ticket prices: General admission $109 - $129, Express admission $179 - $259.
Hours of operation: 10:00 - 18:00. Daily operation hours are different and are subject to change depending on special events, so check the official website before coming to the park.
To get there: Take the Red Line to Universal City, get on the free shuttle outside the station which takes about two to three minutes.
Website:
Disneyland Resort California
Description: Disneyland located in Anaheim was the first Disney park built in the world and the only one to be constructed under the direct supervision of Disney's founder Walt Disney. Disneyland has a traditional Disney charm, light on the thrills, big on the imagination, and family friendly.
Location: 1313 Disneyland Dr, Anaheim, CA 92802, USA
Ticket prices: One day ticket (adults) $104; (children) $98. Two day ticket (adults) $225; (children) $210. One day park hopper ticket $154.
Hours of operation: Disneyland Park 08:00 - 00:00 of the next day; Disney California Adventure Park 08:00 - 22:00.
Hours change based on the season; check the site for updates.To get here, take buses 43, 83, 430, or 460 to the Disneyland station.
Official website:
3. Santa Monica
Overview: Santa Monica is the closest beach to downtown Los Angeles and the western end of historic Route 66. Its location by the ocean has been long sought after by Hollywood. Plus, it has Pacific Park, the only oceanfront amusement park on the West Coast. Santa Monica is always the go-to choice for a quintessential Los Angeles beach experience.
Address: Pacific Coast Hwy, Santa Monica, CA 90401, USA
Cost: Free
Hours: Open 24 hours
To get here, take buses 20, 33, or 534 to Ocean/ Colorado.
Official Website:
4. The Getty Center
Overview: Getty Center is one of the cultural landmarks of Los Angeles and contains one of the richest collections of museums in California and the world. It has major pieces of and European painting, sculpture, and decorative arts, as well as photography, and the building is part of the experience. Visitors take a tram up to the center while looking over the valley. The Central Garden, colorful and outside, is just as carefully designed as the galleries, with shaded walkways, flowing water, a pond, and an azalea maze.
Address: 1200 Getty Center Dr, Los Angeles, CA 90049
Cost: Free
Hours: Tuesday to Friday and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; Closed on Mondays.
To get here, drive here or take bus 234 to Sepulveda/ Getty Center. Cars are parked at the bottom of the hill, and you take the tram to the art center.
Official website:
5. OUE Skyspace Observation Deck
Overview: They say that OUE Skyspace is the highest open-air observation deck in California.
The U.S. Bank Tower in Downtown Los Angeles stands over 1,000 feet tall and offers stunning 360-degree views of the entire city. You can enjoy sunsets from their indoor window seats, take a step outside on the deck, and slide from the 70th floor on their slide! You can even take photos in front of the ``Angel Wings`` mural making this spot a great stop in Los Angeles. Getting Here: 633 W 5th St #840, Los Angeles, CA 90071 Prices: $25 adult ticket $19 children tickets $33 adults’ tickets (includes slide) $27 children’s tickets (includes slide) Hours: 10:00 am – 10:00 pm To get here: Take the buses 16, 17, 18, 53, 55, 62, 316, or 355 to the 5th & Grand stop, then walk for about a minute.
San Francisco – A Relaxed Urban Escape
Moving on to the Overview: San Francisco is known for the Golden Gate Bridge, cable cars, Alcatraz, and Fisherman’s Wharf but it has much more to offer. There are over 40 unique neighborhoods that all have their own distinctive characteristics. San Francisco blends modern and historic very well and has an easygoing atmosphere making it a favorite for West Coast travelers.
Key Attractions:
1) Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is a notable symbol of San Francisco and the United States. It was built with over 100,000 tons of steel.
Its bright orange-red color and design makes it easy to identify and creates a stark contrast against the blue water of the San Francisco Bay and the Golden Gate Strait. The bridge showcases the great engineering capabilities of today and is a popular spot for filming.
Address: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco, CA, USA
Price: Free
Hours: 24/7
How to get there: You can hop on any of the following buses to get to the Golden Gate Bridge Toll Plaza: 2, 4, 8, 10, 18, 24, 27, 38, 44, 54, 56, 58, 70, 72, 72X, 74, 76, 92, 93, 97, 101, 101X.
Official website:
2. Lombard Street
Overview: Lombard Street is known for having 8 sharp bends in the road that make it seem very twisted and crooked. In flower bloom, the flowers lining the road make it very captivating. Visitors from the upper part of the road can also see the Bay Bridge and Coit Tower.
Address: Lombard Street, San Francisco, California
Price: Free
Hours: 24/7
How to get there: You can ride the Powell-Hyde Cable Car Line to Lombard St & Hyde St.
Official website:
3. Fisherman's Wharf
Overview: This Wharf is between Ghirardelli Square and Pier 35. The most popular section is Pier 39. Here you can see shops, restaurants, and street performers. You can see sea lions and have a great view of Alcatraz, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge.
Address: Fisherman's Wharf,
You can also use the F Market line to get to Beach St & Stockton St or The Embarcadero & Stockton St.
Official website:
4. Alcatraz Island
Overview: Alcatraz is a 22 acre island that was previously a federal prison that housed serious offenders from the 1930s to the 1960s. The prison was shut down in the 1970s, and in 1986, the island was made a U.S. National Historic Landmark. The island has eerie former cell blocks, a dining hall, a lighthouse, a warden’s office, a water tower, and an office. It is pricy, but is an inescapable part of visiting San Francisco.
Address: Alcatraz Island, San Francisco, CA
Day Tour Ticket Price: Adult: $37.25 Youth: $37.25 Senior: $35.25 Children: $23.00. Night Tour Ticket Price: Adult: $37 Youth: $36 Senior: $34.25 Children: $21.75. \
Alcatraz opens between 8:45 a.m. and 9:25 p.m. Getting to Alcatraz is done through the ferry that runs from San Francisco's waterfront. Official website:
Hwy 1 — The Essential Coastal Drive
Overview: Highway 1 is iconic for the American West and features endless coastline, wine and food, and a rich, historic background. The California Highway 1 route was reported fully opened in 2018.
Best time to visit: Anytime
Must see stops:
1. 17-Mile Drive
Address: 17 Mile Dr, Pacific Grove, CA 93950
Entry: Vehicle $9.25-$10, walkers and bikers free.
Hours: 24 hours.
Directions: Tour or drive yourself.
Website: 17-mile-drive
2. Solvang
Fact: The name Solvang translates to mean sun-drenched field, which is suitable for this town. Solvang was built by Danish pioneers in the early 20th century and features recreated Danish style buildings and town planning. It is even said that whilst visiting the US, the Danish king made a stop here.
Address: 320 Alisal Mesa Road, Solvang, CA 93463, USA
Entry: Free
Hours: 24 hours
Directions: From central Los Angeles, drive 128 miles north on US-101. It takes about 2 hours.
Website:
3. Bixby Creek Bridge
Fact: Bixby Creek Bridge is the epitome of Highway 1 in California. The bridge was finished in 1932 and symbolized the completion of this part of the road. Its open spandrel single arch is the longest concrete arch bridge in all of California and also one of the most photographed places on the coast.
Address: Bixby Creek Bridge, Monterey, CA 93940, USA
Entry: Free
Hours: 24 hours
Directions: Tour or drive yourself.
4. Hearst Castle
Fact: There are many famous estates in California but Hearst Castle is unique. Its last owner was a prominent American media mogul during the 1920s and 1930s
Surrounded by hills and the sea, the estate has become a local landmark with magnificent views of the ocean.
Address: 50 Hearst Castle Road, San Simeon, CA 93452
Ticket prices: Adults $25; children $12.
Open Hours: 08:00-16:00
How to get there: You can either drive there yourself or be a part of a tour group.
Website: Las Vegas — The Entertainment Capital
The desert city of Las Vegas has blossomed into a world-renowned center for entertainment, attracting almost 40 million visitors each year. The exciting themed hotels, glamorous gambling houses, and shows with stars that can be seen every night exemplify the city that never sleeps in the middle of the Mojave Desert.
Best time to go: All year round, unless you don't like extreme heat, in which case avoid June, July, and August.
Las Vegas has many amazing sites including but not limited to:
Las Vegas Strip
The Strip is a must-see! It is the most popular road that is filled with hotels, casinos, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. According to the original source, 18 out of the top 25 hotels in the world are located there, so be sure to check it out!
LLas Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA
Entry: Free
Open Hours: 24/7
Transportation: There are buses that go for $2 per ride according to the original source, in addition to a tram, which is a second option along the strip.
Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area
Overview: Red Rock Canyon is among the Mojave Desert's most striking viewpoints. Its landscape was shaped by intense movements in ancient seafloor formations more than 600 million years ago.
The stunning natural contrast to Las Vegas is made up of desert terrain, colored rocks, layered mountains, and jagged peaks.\n\nAddress: 1000 Scenic Loop Dr, Las Vegas, NV 89161, USA\n\nAdmission fees: motorcycles, bicycles, and pedestrians; $3. per vehicle; $7.\n\nHours: 6:00-19:00\n\nAccess by personal car or tour bus.\n\nWebsite: _ \n\n3. High Roller\n \nOverview: The High Roller provides one of the best views of Las Vegas. It is said to be the largest Ferris wheel in the world, standing at 30 meters taller than the London Eye. Its glass cabins take about 10 minutes to reach the top, and the view of Las Vegas is phenomenal after dark.\n\nAddress: 3545 S Las Vegas Blvd, Las Vegas, NV 89109, USA\n\nTicket prices: Daytime - adults $22, children $9. Nighttime - adults $32, children $19.\n\nHours: 11:30 - 02:00\n\nAccess the Las Vegas Monorail, getting off at Harrah's/The LINQ Station or Flamingo/Caesars Palace Station.\n\nWebsite: \n\nGrand Canyon National Park \nOverview: The Grand Canyon National Park is located in northwestern Arizona, and it is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. The Grand Canyon is divided into the South and North Rims, each offering unique views. The South Rim is more developed for visitors, so it gets the most traffic. The North Rim has a higher elevation and has thinner air with deep blue skies which can be a great contrast to the canyon, which is a more rugged and raw setting. A photo stop will not be enough in this area which is located in national park. \nBest time to visit: Spring and Fall are best due to more moderate temperatures and less visitors.\n\nKey Attractions \n1. Hermit Road \nOverview: Hermit Road is an approximately 11-kilometer sightseeing route from Hermit Rest Route Transfer to Hermits Rest.
The Grand Canyon's Red Route shuttle allows you to see stunning scenery and wonderful viewpoints throughout the canyon. There are nine Red Route shuttle stops.
Address: Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Hours: Open all day
How to Get There: Grand Canyon National Park (Park Shuttle)
View official website
Desert View Drive
Overview: At Desert View Drive, the mouth of the desert opens to the east and the canyon rim. It stretches 40 kilometers from the Grand Canyon Village to the Desert View Watchtower. This route is lined with picnic areas, impressive canyon overlooks, some of the best ruins of the Tusayan civilization, a guide tower, and so much more. It is rumored that the California condor can be sighted here along with some deer.
Address: Grand Canyon Village, AZ 86023
Hours: Open all day
How to Get There: Drive or take a tour.
View official website
Yosemite National Park
Overview: This park is one of the most famous national parks in America and offers visitors the chance to experience stunning granite cliffs, historic forests, and diverse wildlife.
Best times to visit: April - June
Key Attractions:
Yosemite Falls
Address: Yosemite National Park, California
Hours: Open all day.
Overview: Yosemite Falls is the most well known of all the waterfalls in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the distinction of being the tallest with an impressive three thousand and nine hundred and eighty-two feet total drop.
Horsetail Fall Overview: Horsetail Fall is 1,000 feet tall and flows from December to April. It is known for the “Firefall” effect, which may happen mid to late February. If the sunset is clear and the sun is setting in the right position, it will reflect off the water and create the illusion of a burning waterfall. Address: Yosemite National Park, California Hours: Open all day. Some roads may close due to weather, check official notices before leaving. Getting there: It is located inside Yosemite National Park and you will need to take the park shuttle. 3. Valley View Overview: Valley View is one of the most classic and recognizable spots in all of Yosemite National Park for photos. It is right next to the road, so it is easy to miss, but the wide and expansive view is highly rewarding. To find it, search “Valley View Yosemite” on Google Maps and it will take you right to this excellent photo stop. Address: Yosemite National Park, California Hours: Open all day. Some roads may close due to weather, check official notices before leaving. Getting there: It is located inside Yosemite National Park and you will need to take the park shuttle. Recommended American West Loop Itineraries Option 1: 10-Day Short Loop Begin your travels by heading south along Highway 1 at a balanced pace.
This route is a great way to start getting to know the diverse personality and beautiful scenery of the California coastline as it includes the major cities as well as some charming coastal towns along the way. 
Day 1: Start in San Francisco — Golden Gate Bridge, Lombard Street, Palace of Fine Arts, Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz.
Day 2: Finish the exploration of San Francisco — Chinatown, Union Square, City Hall, Twin Peaks.
Day 3: San Francisco > Monterey.
Day 4: Monterey Bay Aquarium, 17 Mile Drive, Carmel by the Sea.
Day 5: From Carmel to Big Sur Beach Park and then to Solvang.
Day 6: From Solvang to Santa Barbara waterfront.
Day 7: From Santa Barbara to Malibu beach and then to Los Angeles — Walk of Fame.
Day 8: Los Angeles — Beverly Hills, Getty Center, Santa Monica Beach, Griffith Observatory.
Day 9: Los Angeles — Disneyland.
Day 10: Los Angeles — Universal Studios.
Option 2: Grand Loop
The leading natural attractions on the West Coast (excluding Yellowstone National Park) and superb three exploratory cities will be the focus.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Los Angeles - Disneyland Resort California.
Day 2: Los Angeles - Universal Studios Hollywood; Griffith Observatory for night city views.
Day 3: Los Angeles - Shopping in Beverly Hills, Getty Center, Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Day 4: Los Angeles to Palm Springs Desert Hills Premium Outlets.
Day 5: Palm Springs to Grand Canyon National Park.
Day 6: Grand Canyon National Park - Desert View Drive, Hermit Road.
Day 7: From Grand Canyon National Park to Antelope Canyon and Horseshoe Bend.
Day 8: From Page to Las Vegas - Las Vegas Strip, High Roller.
Day 9: From Las Vegas to Yosemite National Park.
Day 10: Yosemite National Park.
Day 11: From Yosemite to San Francisco - Alcatraz, Fisherman’s Wharf.
Day 12: San Francisco - Golden Gate Bridge, Palace of the Fine Arts, Lombard Street.
Day 13: San Francisco to Stanford University, then to Monterey, 17-Mile Drive, and Carmel by the Sea.
Day 14: From Carmel to Big Sur, San Simeon, and Santa Barbara.
Day 15: Santa Barbara to Los Angeles.
Suggested Areas to Stay
Los Angeles
When visiting Los Angeles, it is best to avoid the downtown and central urban core areas. Beverly Hills is recommended because of its better location, ease of transportation, and a better overall setting. If you're going to Disneyland, you can stay in Anaheim close by, or you can come back to Los Angeles after visiting the park.
San Francisco
San Francisco is the cradle of the boutique hotel phenomenon, and lodging there is often beautifully designed. The original source lists typical room rates of $100-$300, and overnight parking is an additional charge of $35-$50.
Most travelers spend the night by Union Square. They like easy transportation and the proximity to many attractions. Another more expensive option, but with a lot of restaurant options, is Fisherman’s Wharf. Highway 1 For places with beautiful scenery along Highway 1, and great places to stay, look at Santa Barbara, Monterey, and Carmel-by-the-Sea. These 3 destinations along the Pacific Coast are great spots to stay the night. Las Vegas Stay on the Strip in Las Vegas. It’s the best option because the city is alive at night. The hotels are themed, and many have shows and buffet restaurants. The original source says it is a very economical option to enjoy a hotel with five-star-type services. Grand Canyon National Park The Grand Canyon is in Arizona. Tusayan is the best place to stay the night near the Grand Canyon. You have to make reservations early. Some people stay in Las Vegas and go to the Grand Canyon for a day trip. Yosemite National Park Yosemite National Park offers accommodations such as hotels, cabins, and tents. You must reserve a camping spot. The best place to stay in a hotel is in the Yosemite Valley. It is very central, and you can easily visit many points of interest and services. Conclusion The western part of the United States requires good planning to maximize the trip. You will enjoy a mix of vibrant cities, dramatic deserts, beautiful coastal roads, and stunning views in national parks. This area is the most satisfying for the distance to be traveled.
