best of the west

13 day Fly Drive holiday

Take on the road trip of a lifetime with a fly drive holiday from Los Angeles, California to Phoenix, Arizona, where urban experiences, natural wonders and cultural highlights provide a real taste of the American West.

Highlights:

Revel in the glitz & glam of Hollywood
Unwind on California’s sun-drenched beaches
Explore the iconic landmarks of San Francisco
Walk through Las Vegas’ neon strip
Enjoy days out at Zion National Park and The Grand Canyon
Lap up the luxury of Scottdale, Arizona

Personalize your itinerary

Your Best of The West fly drive holiday can be tailored to suit your needs whether it be adding in extra nights, different accommodations or adding in different stops along the way. Let us know what you would like, and we will work around that.

Arrive at Los Angeles International Airport and collect your hire car. Take the short drive to West Hollywood and begin with a visit to the Hollywood Walk of Fame, then head to the Griffith Observatory for spectacular panoramic views of the city and the Hollywood sign. Shop and dine for hours on end at The Grove and Farmers Market. Spend the most exciting day at Universal Studios or if art is more your thing, we recommend a trip to the Getty Centre or the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.

Drive the short, yet beautiful route to Santa Monica with the pristine Californian beach on your doorstep. Bask on the sun-soaked white-sands before hitting the rides at Santa Monica Pier. Stroll through Third Street Promenade for shopping, and watch the locals skateboard and roller skate at Venice Beach. Don't miss exploring the Venice Canals. For dining, enjoy the freshest seafood at The Lobster restaurant.

Hit the world-famous Pacific Coast Highway where breathtaking coastal views and opportunities to explore charming locations like Santa Barbara, Big Sur, and Monterey are all part of the journey. Santa Barbara, known for its Spanish colonial history, boutique shops, and gourmet restaurants, is an ideal spot to stretch your legs. As you continue, Big Sur's rugged coastline and serene landscapes will captivate you. Monterey is a must-visit for whale spotting if time permits.

A day can look like exploring the iconic Golden Gate Bridge, a symbol of the city. Then, take a boat tour to Alcatraz Island, known for its infamous prison and eerie atmosphere. For a cultural experience, visit Chinatown, one of the oldest and most vibrant in North America. Conclude your day at Fisherman’s Wharf, Pier 39, and Ghirardelli Square, where you can enjoy delicious food, shopping, and stunning bay views

After your San Francisco adventures, head to Las Vegas, a slightly longer journey through dramatic scenery, including a stop at Death Valley National Park, the lowest, driest, and hottest in the U.S. Upon arrival, explore the vibrant strip, experience the electric nightlife, and indulge in fine dining at Joel Robuchon. A day in Las Vegas includes visits to iconic casinos like Caesars Palace, The Mirage, and Luxor, a ride on the High Roller Ferris Wheel, and viewing the Bellagio's dancing fountains. For an unforgettable experience, consider a helicopter tour to the Grand Canyon. Don't miss visiting the Neon Museum and punching your ticket to a world-class high flying circus show.

For a change of pace, take a day trip to Hoover Dam and Lake Mead. Tour the breathtaking Hoover Dam and its fascinating visitor centre, learning about its history and engineering marvels. If you enjoy outdoor activities, Lake Mead offers hiking and boating opportunities. After a day of exploration, dine at one of the local eateries near the dam or return to the Las Vegas Strip for a high-end meal.

Depart Las Vegas and travel to Zion National Park, offering some of the most stunning hikes in the region, including the challenging Angels Landing and the iconic Narrow. For those who prefer a more relaxed experience, a scenic drive through Zion Canyon provides breathtaking views of the park's unique landscapes.

From Zion, make your way to the Grand Canyon for an out-of-this-world adventure. Start your exploration at the South Rim, taking in the breathtaking vistas from Mather Point and walking along the Bright Angel Trail. For a truly spectacular view, consider a helicopter tour over the Grand Canyon, offering a once-in-a-lifetime perspective. Dining options within the park can be limited, so you may want to bring your own food, though some park lodges offer dining services.

Leaving the national parks behind, head to Scottsdale, Arizona. The journey includes a chance to marvel at Sedona’s stunning red rock landscapes. In Scottsdale, indulge in Southwestern cuisine at renowned restaurants like The Mission and Cowboy Ciao. Spend your day in Scottsdale exploring the area’s luxurious offerings, from hot air balloon rides over the Sonoran Desert to visiting Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s architectural masterpiece. Unwind with a relaxing session at one of Scottsdale’s ultra-luxe spas.

Your trip wraps up in Phoenix, where you can explore the city's cultural attractions, including the Heard Museum and Phoenix Art Museum. Enjoy a peaceful stroll through Papago Park and the Desert Botanical Garden, immersing yourself in the unique flora of the region. For a final culinary treat, savour the renowned pizza at Pizzeria Bianco or indulge in fine dining at Kai. After a restful night, you'll depart from Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, returning your hire car and concluding your unforgettable journey through some of the most iconic landscapes and cities in the American Southwest.

This sample itinerary covers all of the USA's must-see places to visit in the West, it is taking adventure to a whole new level. If this has tempted you or you are looking for something similar, speak with us and we can create an itinerary specific to your requirements - it's what we do best at DW Escapes.