East To West Roadtrip

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Visits 15 destinations

22 Days

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On this absolutely epic 22-day adventure, you’ll travel from the East Coast to the West, visit 12 states, and experience 16 cities!

Patriotism, apple-pie, concrete jungles, and zero apologies! America does it bigger. America does it better. In true Yankee spirit, we’ve concocted the road trip to end all road trips. On this absolutely epic 22-day adventure, you’ll travel from the East Coast to the West, cross four time zones, visit 12 states, and experience 16 cities. Get ready to sing the blues in Memphis, taste a cheesesteak in Philadelphia and sin your heart out in Las Vegas!

We spend 22 days exploring USA. We visit New York, Washington DC, Asheville, Nashville, Memphis, New Orleans, Lafayette, Austin, Fort Worth, Amarillo, Santa Fe, Durango, Williams, Las Vegas, Los Angeles.

What Is Included...

  • Your fantastic Busabout crew

  • 21 nights’ accommodation

  • 19 Breakfasts

  • All coach transport

  • Entry to the Grand Canyon National Park

  • Visit an alligator rescue centre in Louisiana

  • See the sunset at the Grand Canyon

  • Take a tour of Avery Island Tabasco factory

  • Visit the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo

Trip Highlights
  • Eat iconic American food such as cheesesteaks and BBQ
  • Dance to the best jazz, blues and country music
  • Drive along the historic Route 66

Check these off your bucket list

Washington Washington
Las Vegas Las Vegas
Monument Valley Monument Valley

22 Day Itinerary

East To West Roadtrip 22 day full itinerary breakdown and route map

Day 1

New York to Philadelphia to Washington D.C.

The first day of our truly epic, coast-to-coast adventure begins in the Big Apple, New York City. We’ll depart early with Philadelphia as our goal and arrive in the late morning. Here in the city that birthed It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and Will Smith both, you’ll have ample time to grab a Philly cheesesteak and enjoy sights like the Liberty Bell or some truly impressive street art. We’ll leave Philly in the afternoon and venture onwards to Washington D.C. On arrival in the capital we’ll be orientated with a driving tour to soak up all the major landmarks before settling into our accommodation. Tonight, treat yourself to a restaurant dinner and see where the bustling city takes you.

Day 2

Washington D.C.

Today, head out into the United States capital city and see it your way. In the morning, you have the option of a bike tour of the capital area. You’ll soak in the sights of the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Washington and Lincoln Memorials. In the afternoon, why not indulge in a tour of the Capitol Building or the White House and witness the world’s foremost political power in action. If politics isn’t your thing, there are more than 17 free Smithsonian Museums darted around DC, any of which are well worth the visit! For anyone looking to blow some dollars and undergo the genuine American shopping experience, Georgetown isn’t far and can cater to all your spending needs. Tonight, go happy hour hunting in any number of Washington bars.  

Day 3

Washington D.C. to Asheville

We’ll be rolling out of D.C. in the early morning with Asheville ahead of us. When we arrive in the afternoon we’ll have a quick rest before it’s back out to explore this vibrant, mountain nestled city. Together, we’ll follow a sculptural urban walking trail designed to honour the people and communities that moulded Asheville into the gorgeous city it is today. Come evening, we’ll head out on a walking tour of the city before meandering over to a rooftop bar for views of the sun setting behind the magnificent Blue Ridge Mountains, and relax until the stars arrive. Under the blanket of night, we’ll hit the lively streets to experience Asheville’s famous musical and culinary scenes. 

Day 4

Asheville

Asheville awaits today, and you’re free to see it however you please. From beer, to arts, to architecture, Asheville has it all. You have the option of joining your guide and getting back to nature today – we’ll head down to the Blue Ridge Parkway and stop for hikes, visit some waterfalls, and hit some lookouts. If that’s not your vibe, you can visit the 19th century Biltmore Estate, an enormous French-inspired chateau constructed by George Vanderbilt. The estate has been utilised in cinema since the 1940s and was featured in Richie Rich, Forrest Gump, and Hannibal! A stop off in the Arts District is a must for anyone with an eye for style. Here, you’ll be lost in a sea of studios, murals, galleries, and street musicians. Next, head over to the Industrial District to discover why Asheville’s affectionately referred to as Beer Town. With 30 craft breweries and even beer flavoured doughnuts, the South Slope Brewery Zone is easily one of the best places to kickstart a memorable night. 

Day 5

Asheville to Nashville

Day five puts us down in Nashville, Tennessee: the home of country tunes, red-hot chicken wings, and rowdy line dancing. As we hit the road we’ll be stopping off for lunch in Knoxville, a charming town with a bustling market square. For city views, you can venture into the iconic observation deck of the Sunsphere for a gallery of Knoxville images and a 360 degree view of the city. When we arrive in Nashville, we’ll head out to experience some of the city’s famous music scene. You’ll spend your evening being treated to live music, good food, and a whole load of laughs. 

Day 6

Nashville

You’re set loose, yet again, on another unsuspecting city. There’s plenty to see and do in Nashville’s colourful streets but we recommend embracing the country spirit and checking out the RCA Studios or the Johnny Cash Museum. Better yet, meander over to the Grand Opry, which is where country music was first made famous. For views of the city and surrounding river, be sure to walk the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge; an impressive feat of engineering and one of the longest pedestrian bridges in the world. Tonight you are free to try and catch a show at the Ryman Theatre, the former home of the Grand Ole Opry, or bar hop all the way down Broadway. 

Day 7

Nashville to Memphis

This morning we’ll be making the pilgrimage from the home of country music to the birthplace of blues, soul, and rock & roll: Memphis. When we arrive in the early evening, we’ll kick things off with a tour of the city to get us orientated. We’ll pass famous sites, such as the National Civil Rights Museum, the Rock n Soul Museum, and Mud Island. Tonight we’ll venture to Beale Street, which is historic for its impact on blues! Dine and drink the night away in venues frequented by legends like Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and Louis Armstrong. 

Day 8

Memphis

It’s time to rock your way across Memphis on another free day. Fans of Elvis Presley should consider a trip to Graceland, where the King lived in his mansion. Explore the musical legend’s home-turn-museum and visit his final resting place. The city is also home to the infamous Lorraine Motel, where Civil Rights Activist Martin Luther King Jr was assassinated. Now the motel stands as a museum to Civil Rights and all of Doctor King’s achievements. If you’re not music-ed out, take a tour of Sun Studio and see where legends like Johnny Cash, BB King and Elvis recorded. Tonight, head back to Beale Street for more soulful blues, fine food, and cocktails. 

Day 9

Memphis to New Orleans

We bid farewell to Memphis bright and early and make our way to our headline city and home of smooth jazz, New Orleans. After arriving in the afternoon, we’ll head out to explore the city’s oldest area: the French Quarter and Jackson Square. Here we’ll enjoy heritage houses, vibrant street performers and a mouth-watering variety of restaurants! After a soulful wander around these quaint, colourful streets, we’ll delve deeper into the Big Easy for a night of unbeatable jazz and slick New Orleans cocktails.   

Day 10

New Orleans

Our last full day on the trip dawns and we urge you start it with a beignet pastry from Cafe du Monde! There’s an incredible variety of activities and sights in New Orleans, ranging from art and WW2 Museums to ghost walks and flea markets. Head out in any direction and you’ll find something worth seeing! We recommend a bike tour for the best coverage or even a bike rental. If the city’s unique spiritual side is what you’re craving than take a trip to Rev Zombie’s House of Voodoo for all things folkways. Tonight we’ll visit French Street to end our tour in style. We’ll experience live music whilst perusing casual eateries and sipping on cocktails. What better way cap off an incredible adventure? 

Day 11

New Orleans to Avery Island to Lafayette

Come morning we’re back on the road and on our way to Avery Island for a very special visit to the Tabasco Factory. We’ll arrive at the factory in the early afternoon where we’ll enjoy a self-guided tour of the facilities. This is a must-see for anyone who’s ever wondered just exactly how Tabasco sauce was made. After lunch we’re on our way to Lafayette, the unofficial capital of Acadiana and centre of Cajun culture. This afternoon you can join an optional swamp tour. Fans of all things Cajun will love Lafayette for its food, music, and vibe.

Day 12

Lafayette to Austin

There’s a lot to do and see today so we depart Lafayette bright and early. First up, we’ll head to an alligator rescue centre and learn about the work they’re doing to reintroduce these gorgeous creatures back into the wild. Afterwards we’ll continue to Austin, arriving in the afternoon. After checking in we’ll hit the streets to experience Austin’s bohemian vibe and gawp at the Moonlight Towers, the Capitol Building, the University of Texas, and more. Later, we’ll head to Rainey St to experience the food trucks, eclectic music and bar scene. Here we’ll lavish in Austin’s astounding atmosphere and booming party spirit.

Day 13

Austin

One of the fastest growing cities in the world, Austin becomes your playground for the day. The city’s motto - Keep Austin Weird - is meant to show the city’s support for local artists and businesses, however unique. We urge you to seek out Austin’s quirky nature, be that in the guise of graffiti parks, the Cathedral of Junk, Zilker Park, swimming at Barton Springs Pool, or rowing on Ladybird Lake. Come sunset, head to the Congress Avenue Bridge to witness almost two million Mexican free-tailed bats take to the skies and feast on a buffet of summer bugs. When the sun’s all but vanished, head towards Sixth St for another evening of music and fun. Austin’s nightlife is beyond electrifying but just remember to always keep it weird!

Day 14

Austin to Fort Worth

We depart Austin early, heading for Fort Worth. We’ll stop briefly in Waco, the birthplace of Dr Pepper, and head to the Magnolia Markets for shopping and food. After we arrive in Fort Worth, you’re free to explore. Fiercely proud of its cowboy roots, Fort Worth was the centre of Texas’ cattle industry and there’s no better way to experience that cowboy heritage than with a trip to the Stockyard National Historic District. Here you’ll find daily rodeos, horse-and-cart rides, a longhorn drive, and a whole host of BBQ joints. For some history, check out the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Those looking for a slower pace should set-up by the Trinity River for a dip or a canoe ride. Tonight, we recommend dropping into Billy Bob’s Texas - the World’s Largest Honky-Tonk. This truly mammoth-sized venue can hold up to 6,000 people and has over 30 bar stations.

Day 15

Fort Worth to Amarillo

Heads full of country tunes, the taste of BBQ lingering on the tips of our tongues, and the beating sun rising over the Texan landscape: this is the way to Amarillo. As we travel, we’ll be passing through Wichita Falls, home to the world’s smallest skyscraper, and arrive at Amarillo in the late afternoon. This afternoon you’ll have some time to stroll down Amarillo's Sixth Street Historic District and discover an abundance of vibrant shops, lively restaurants, and antique architecture. Tonight, try the 72-ounce (2kg) Steak Challenge at Big Texan Steak Ranch, a legendary contest started in 1962 that many a traveller has tried their hand at. For added incentive, if you finish in under an hour, it’s free!

Day 16

Amarillo to Santa Fe

Today we’re joining the famous Route 66 and heading for New Mexico. Before we get too far, though, we’ll be making a pitstop at the Cadillac Ranch. A monument to the golden age of American automobiles, the Ranch features ten Cadillac buried halfway in the sand, all covered in wildly colourful paint. Before long we’re back on the road, crossing into the Mountain time zone - our third time zone this trip. We’ll arrive in Santa Fe in the afternoon and head out for an orientation walk. Enjoy one of the oldest locations in the entire United States, settled by Spanish pioneers in the 15th Century. The Pueblo Adobe architecture is a sight to behold and tells tales of a time when the native Navajo Americans peacefully co-existed with the Spanish settlers. The rest of the day is yours to explore this haven of history and art.

Day 17

Santa Fe to Durango

We’re back on the road nice and early with Colorado in our sights and Durango our destination. Known for its array of adventure sports, thrill-seekers will find themselves unable to tear themselves away from Durango’s many enticing activities. Once we arrive in the afternoon the rest of the day is yours to do with as you will. White water raft down the Lower Animas River for a truly adrenaline-fueled thrill ride or embrace the American way and charter a horseback ride across the nearby mountains. Come evening, retire to the city-proper for good grub and energetic nightlife.

Day 18

Durango to Monument Valley to Williams

Another early start as we make tracks for Williams. On our way we’ll be passing through an American institution: Monument Valley. Famed western director, John Ford, first made these buttes iconic but you might know them from a host of films, including Back to the Future 3 and Forrest Gump. After stopping a few times to take in the sights, we leave the Valley and continue on to Williams. We’ll arrive in the humble town in the early evening to a classic western feel, ready to explore the historic buildings and pine country, Arizona. Spend tonight eating great food whilst guzzling down a few ice cold brews, and sharing a laugh with the friendly locals.

Day 19

Grand Canyon

Today we leave our basecamp in Williams and venture to somewhere truly special: the Grand Canyon. One of the world’s seven natural wonders, the Grand Canyon is a sight beyond sights. You’ll be humbled by its steep cliff faces whilst you marvel at the incredible power of nature. Those wanting to can take an optional helicopter tour to see this phenomenon from the sky. Anyone looking for a more intimate look can venture down into the canyon on any one of a dozen hiking trails. Alternatively, sit back in a cliff-side cafe and relax with a coffee and an unbeatable view. In the evening we’ll meet back up to watch the sun set over the canyon. Get a good night’s sleep because tomorrow we depart for Sin City!

Day 20

Williams to Las Vegas

On our trip down Route 66 we’ll be visiting some iconic locations. Firstly, Seligman: a legendary town locked in the past. Check out some of the colourful shops and pick up a memento. As we drive, we’ll pass a whole host of ghost towns, mostly erected and abandoned during the gold rush. We’ll stop in Kingman for a bite to eat and a look around the Route 66 museum. Next stop: Las Vegas. Tonight, we’ll meet for drinks and head down to the Strip to catch some street entertainment. We’ll end the evening in a rooftop bar where we’ll sit back and enjoy the view.

Day 21

Las Vegas

Welcome to Las Vegas: Sin City, and gambling capital of the world. Today’s your chance to experience it however you please. Spend the day perusing the Strip, hitting up world-famous casinos like the MGM Grand, Caesar’s Palace, and Mandalay Bay. For something more out there we’d recommend the Mob Museum, where you can learn all about Vegas’ gritty underbelly and mafia past. Food joints are plentiful in the city, but if you get the chance check out In-N-Out Burger for an authentic American patty. Tonight, why not catch one of Vegas’ famous shows, ride the world’s tallest observation wheel, or just get lost in the lights.

Day 22

Las Vegas to Los Angeles

The final day dawns on our epic American adventure and we leave Sin City for pastures new. We’ll travel through Southern California and the Mojave Desert to views of rugged fields of Joshua trees and jagged rock formations. We’ll arrive in Los Angeles in the late afternoon, which marks the official end of our amazing, coast to coast tour.

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