3-Day USA Tour Packages

Insider tips: Recommended 3-day USA tour itineraries

Compiled by

NadineUSA travel expert at TourRadar

• 3 Day Southwest USA Itinerary, incl. Sedona and Monument Valley

  Natural wonders abound across 7 major destinations, from Sedona's red rocks to Monument Valley's buttes. Two nights at Clarion Inn Page, daily breakfast, and perfectly timed visits for photography at Valley of Fire State Park included.

  

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  • Day 1

    Las Vegas to Sedona

    Your Southwest adventure starts with an early morning drive from Las Vegas. You'll cross the Mojave Desert and climb the Colorado Plateau along historic Route 66. Pack snacks and water for the 4.5-hour journey. One traveler shares: "The Oak Creek Canyon descent is breathtaking, but if you get carsick, sit near the front and focus on the horizon during the 2,000-foot drop." Once in Sedona, you'll explore Oak Creek Canyon and visit the Chapel of the Holy Cross. The local shuttle to the Chapel gets busy between 11 AM-2 PM, so plan for early morning or late afternoon. You'll also stop at Bell Rock and Courthouse Butte. Bring sturdy hiking shoes since the red rock terrain can be tricky to navigate. The day ends with a 2.5-hour drive to Page where you'll spend the night.

    
  • Day 2

    Monument Valley and Horseshoe Bend

    Leave early for the 2-hour drive to Monument Valley. The Navajo-led jeep tour is rough but well worth it. Pack layers because mornings are cold and afternoons get hot. A recent visitor notes: "The jeep tour was the highlight – our Navajo guide knew exactly where to stop for the best photos, but bring a bandana as it gets dusty." Next up is Horseshoe Bend near Page. The walk from parking takes about 15-20 minutes each way on a partly paved trail. There's minimal shade, so water and sun protection are essential. Photos look best in late afternoon when the sun isn't directly overhead. You'll return to Page for your second night.

    
  • Day 3

    Antelope Canyon to Las Vegas

    Begin at Lower Antelope Canyon. The canyon has steep stairs and ladders, but guides help you navigate the narrow spaces. Use a camera neck strap so your hands stay free. One visitor suggests: "Book the earliest possible slot to avoid the crowds and get the best light beams in the canyon." On the way back to Las Vegas, you'll stop at Valley of Fire State Park. The red sandstone looks most impressive in late afternoon light. Take short hikes to spots like Elephant Rock or the Beehives. The 4.5-hour drive ends in Las Vegas by early evening.

    

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• 3 Day Southwest USA Itinerary, incl. Zion and Grand Canyon

  The Southwest's natural wonders span 1,000+ miles across 6 destinations. Day 1: Zion and Bryce Canyon. Day 2: Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, and Monument Valley. Day 3: Grand Canyon and Route 66. Daily meals, expert guides, and comfortable transport included for around $900.

  

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  • Day 1

    Zion & Bryce Canyon National Parks

    Leave Las Vegas by 7:15 AM for the 2.5-hour drive to Zion National Park. "Arrive at Zion early to catch the first shuttle into the park - lines get very long by mid-morning." You'll have time to explore Emerald Pools Trail or walk through The Narrows. If you choose The Narrows bring water shoes. Keep in mind the shuttle can take 30-45 minutes each way so plan your hiking time accordingly. Take the 2-hour drive to Bryce Canyon in the afternoon to walk the Navajo Loop Trail through the hoodoos. "The Bryce Canyon camping can get surprisingly cold at night bring extra layers even in summer as temperatures can drop below 40°F after sunset." Finish your day with some stargazing and campfire s'mores.

    
  • Day 2

    Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon & Monument Valley

    Drive to Page Arizona after breakfast (2.5 hours) to see Lower Antelope Canyon. You'll need to pay $90-100 for the guided tour but visitors say it's worth every penny: "Lower Antelope Canyon was my favorite part - just know it involves climbing steep stairs and squeezing through narrow passages." Book at least 2 weeks ahead during peak season. Head to Monument Valley for an afternoon jeep tour with a Navajo guide. A recent visitor suggests: "Bring a bandana to cover your face during the dusty jeep ride." Stay at a campsite along the rim for incredible sunset and sunrise views. "Waking up to sunrise at Monument Valley was the highlight of our trip."

    
  • Day 3

    Grand Canyon & Return to Vegas

    Take the 3-hour drive to reach Grand Canyon South Rim by mid-morning. A visitor suggests: "Do the Rim Trail between Mather Point and Bright Angel Lodge for the best views with minimal crowds." Want to see it from above? Book a helicopter tour ($270-450) first thing to avoid afternoon bumps and still have time to hike. The drive back to Las Vegas takes about 4.5 hours. Stop in Seligman on old Route 66 for some nostalgia. You'll get back to Vegas around 8-9 PM. One reviewer put it well: "It's a fast-paced trip but the only way to see this much in 3 days. Come prepared for early mornings and lots of driving between breathtaking destinations."

    

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• 3 Day California Coast Itinerary, incl. San Francisco and Yosemite

  California's coast and mountains showcase 5 major destinations: Los Angeles, Santa Barbara's Mission, Carmel's boutiques, San Francisco's iconic landmarks, and Yosemite's 1,200 square miles of wilderness. Two hotel nights and continental breakfasts included.

  

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  • Day 1

    Los Angeles to Carmel

    Leave LA around 6:30 AM from Farmers Market to avoid traffic. Drive north to Santa Barbara (2 hours) where you can visit the Spanish Mission and walk through State Street Promenade. A recent visitor shared: "The state street promenade is perfect for a morning stroll - totally pedestrian-friendly and the architecture is incredible." Stop in Solvang for lunch and experience this unique Danish town. Then take Route 1 (PCH) up the coast to Carmel. Grab a window seat on the right side for the best coastal views. Once in Carmel you can explore downtown with its art galleries and fairy-tale cottages. The afternoon is usually perfect for photos since the coastal fog typically clears by then.

    
  • Day 2

    San Francisco Highlights

    Visit Fisherman's Wharf early to beat the crowds. Take a morning bay cruise for clear views of Alcatraz and the Golden Gate Bridge after the fog lifts around 10 AM. A recent visitor suggests: "Get to the front of the boat for the best bridge photos, and bring layers - the bay is chilly even in summer." Take an afternoon city tour through Chinatown, Union Square and Nob Hill. Give yourself extra time to walk through Chinatown since it gets busy after 2 PM. Watch the sunset from the Bay Bridge and see the city light up for evening.

    
  • Day 3

    Yosemite or Monterey (Seasonal)

    Summer Option (Apr-Oct): The 4-hour drive to Yosemite takes you through the Central Valley. You'll stop to see El Capitan and Half Dome. If you hike to Yosemite Falls wear good shoes since the mist makes the trail slippery. Plan for longer stops in spring when the waterfalls are strongest. Winter Option (Nov-Mar): Spend your morning in Monterey exploring Cannery Row and the wharf. In the afternoon visit 17-Mile Drive for better lighting. One traveler noted: "Monterey was my favorite stop - the historic canneries and sea life made for amazing photos. Don't miss the otters near the wharf!"

    

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