“As you move through this life and this world, you change things slightly; you leave marks behind, however small. And in return, life–and travel–leaves marks on you. Most of the time, those marks–on your body or on your heart–are beautiful. Often, though, they hurt.”
Anthony Bourdain
From Hollywood (CA) to Salt Lake City (UT)
Day 8 – Hollywood – Beverly Hills – The OC – Palm Springs
Beverly Hills
Start your morning with a visit to Beverly Hills. Grab a coffee on Rodeo Drive, the epitome of luxury shopping and high-end fashion. Don’t forget to snap a picture with the iconic Beverly Hills sign – a classic souvenir from your trip.
The O.C.
Next, head toward Palm Springs, making a stop in Orange County. Take a leisurely walk along the Huntington Beach Pier, one of the most famous piers on the West Coast. The pier offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and is a great spot to watch surfers catching waves. Then check out the Ferris wheel at Balboa Fun Zone in Newport Beach. This spot offers a nostalgic amusement park vibe and beautiful views of the harbor.
For late breakfast / early lunch, indulge in some In-N-Out burgers. There’s nothing quite like a Double-Double Animal Style with fries and a shake. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned fan, this California staple is always a good idea. Vegetarians, do yourself a favour and try their grilled cheese, animal style from the secret menu.
Palm Springs
Upon arriving in Palm Springs, check into your motel and set out to explore the city. Palm Springs is known for its mid-century modern architecture, stylish hotels, and vibrant arts scene.
Sherman’s
For a bite to eat, head to Sherman’s Deli & Bakery. This New York-style deli is a local favorite, known for its massive sandwiches and delicious desserts.
Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing by the pool, take advantage of the warm weather and enjoy some downtime.
Adara Palm Springs – 1 night
Day 9 & 10 – Viva Las Vegas!
Check out our guide to Las Vegas for inspo
Day 11 – Palm Springs (CA) to Seligman (AZ), Exploring Route 66
Start your day by heading to the iconic Route 66, a historic highway that epitomizes the American road trip. This stretch of road is filled with vintage charm and Americana, making it a journey as memorable as the destination itself.
Your first stop is Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner in Kingman for breakfast. This retro diner is Instagram gold with its bright neon signs, vintage decor, and classic American fare. Indulge in a hearty breakfast of french toast, bacon, and eggs while soaking up the nostalgic atmosphere.
Mr. D’z Route 66 Diner
Huckberry General Store
After breakfast, head towards the Huckberry General Store to pick up some quirky Route 66 souvenirs to commemorate your trip.
Bearizona
Next, head to Bearizona in Williams, AZ, a unique wildlife park where you can drive through and see North American animals in their natural habitats. From black bears and wolves to bison and mountain goats, it’s an incredible experience that brings you up close with wildlife. The park also offers a walk-through section where you can see smaller animals and enjoy educational exhibits.
Seligman
Arrive in Seligman and check into your motel. Spend the afternoon exploring this small town, which is a treasure trove of Route 66 memorabilia. Seligman is insanely Instagrammable, with its colorful murals, vintage cars, and quirky shops. Take your time to wander around, capturing the unique and nostalgic vibe of this historic town.
Deluxe Inn Motel – 2 nights
Day 12 – Explore Grand Canyon
Spend a full day exploring the breathtaking South Rim of the Grand Canyon. This natural wonder is one of the most stunning and iconic landscapes in the world. As you arrive, you’ll be greeted by panoramic views that stretch as far as the eye can see, showcasing the immense scale and beauty of the canyon.
Start your visit at the Grand Canyon Visitor Center to get an overview of the park and pick up a map. The visitor center offers informative exhibits about the geology, history, and wildlife of the Grand Canyon, helping you appreciate the significance of this incredible place.
From there, take the Rim Trail, which offers easy walking and stunning views along the canyon’s edge. This mostly paved trail is accessible and provides numerous vantage points for spectacular photo opportunities. Don’t miss Mather Point, a popular viewpoint that offers one of the most iconic perspectives of the canyon.
For a more immersive experience, venture down the Bright Angel Trail. This well-maintained trail descends into the canyon, offering a closer look at the geological layers and the diverse plant and animal life. Keep in mind that hiking into the canyon requires good preparation and stamina, so plan your trek according to your fitness level and the time you have available.
Enjoy a picnic lunch at one of the designated picnic areas along the rim, soaking in the views and the serene environment. In the afternoon, continue your exploration by visiting the historic Grand Canyon Village. This area is home to several notable buildings, including the El Tovar Hotel and the Hopi House, which showcase the unique architecture and cultural history of the region.
Make sure to visit Desert View Watchtower, located at the eastern end of the South Rim. Designed by architect Mary Colter, this impressive stone tower offers stunning views of the canyon and the Colorado River below.
As the day comes to an end, find a good spot to watch the sunset. The changing colors of the canyon walls as the sun dips below the horizon is a sight you’ll never forget. Yavapai Point and Hopi Point are particularly popular for sunset views.
Day 13 – Explore Antelope Canyon
Brandy’s
Start your morning with breakfast at Brandy’s Restaurant & Bakery. This cozy spot is known for its delicious breakfast options and freshly baked goods. Try their famous pancakes or a hearty breakfast burrito to fuel up for the day ahead.
Antelope Canyon
After breakfast, head to Antelope Canyon for a guided tour. This stunning slot canyon is renowned for its wave-like structure and the light beams that shine down into the openings of the canyon, creating a surreal and ethereal atmosphere. Remember to book your tour well in advance, as spots fill up quickly due to the canyon’s popularity. The guides are knowledgeable and will provide fascinating insights into the geology and history of this natural wonder, as well as tips for capturing the best photos.
After your tour, check into your motel and take some time to relax and unwind. The serene surroundings of Page, Arizona, are the perfect backdrop for a restful afternoon.
Big John’s Texas BBQ
For dinner, don’t miss Big John’s Texas BBQ. This local favorite offers mouthwatering barbecue dishes, from tender brisket to juicy ribs, all cooked to perfection with a smoky, Texas-style flavour. The casual, laid-back atmosphere and live music make it a great place to end the day with a hearty meal.
Motel 6 Page – 1 night
Day 14 – Page (AZ) – Salt Lake City (UT)
Denny’s
Red Iguana
On our way to Yellowstone, we made a stop in Salt Lake City. We wanted to try Red Iguana while here, a restaurant we saw on Guy Fieri’s “Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives.” It’s a great place known for its authentic Mexican cuisine, in fact it was packed, and we had to wait a while to get a table. If you visit, make sure to ask for the mole sampler to taste all the sauces they’re famous for.
After our meal, we headed to Pony Express RV Resort, where I had booked us last-minute a accommodation. Unfortunately, I hadn’t read the details properly, and the log cabins were super basic – no duvet or sheets. It’s definitely not something I would recommend unless you’re well-prepared for a minimalistic stay.
Pony Express RV Resort – 1 night
