First timers to USA....Suggestions gratefully accepted!
Jan 27th, 2008, 10:48 AM
#21
RB1 mentioned Antelope Canyon.
Page, AZ is directly on the road between Zion/Bryce and the GC South Rim.
While there's no need or reason to go into Page there are 3 sights that are definitely worth the time (about 2-3 hours). All are just outside Page.
"The Best Dam View" (free and just off Rt 89), Horseshoe Bend (free and just off Rt 89) and Antelope Canyon (about $26. and just off Rt 98 (Rt 98 meets Rt 89 just to confuse things)).
Page, AZ is directly on the road between Zion/Bryce and the GC South Rim.
While there's no need or reason to go into Page there are 3 sights that are definitely worth the time (about 2-3 hours). All are just outside Page.
"The Best Dam View" (free and just off Rt 89), Horseshoe Bend (free and just off Rt 89) and Antelope Canyon (about $26. and just off Rt 98 (Rt 98 meets Rt 89 just to confuse things)).
Jan 27th, 2008, 11:25 AM
#22
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Such fun! One of the distinctions of the US is its natural wonders in the national parks. I am glad you are going to see some rather than just the big cities. I've been to most all the places you have listed (except Wallkill) and will give you my biased opinions as an outdoor lover who also likes the special activities that cities like SF and NYC offer.
SF is one of my favorite tourist cities and it is fun to do the tourist stuff--ride a cable car, take the boat to tour Alcatraz, take a drive or tour over the Golden Gate Bridge to Muir Woods to see giant redwood trees, plus whatever are your specific interests--museums, zoo, architecture, etc. I think minimum for SF, especially upon arrival is 3 days.
Yosemite Valley is gorgeous and best seen by walking and biking. Also you can go to the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias at southern end of park. That time in May the upper elevation roads will probably still be closed, but I would think the waterfalls in the valley will be great. If you must do a single day on a bus, that is better than nothing, but it will probably be get out and walk up a short trail to take a photo, get back on the bus, etc. to make it in one day. I haven't done that tour, so maybe you can search for someone who has. I know it has been asked about before on the forum.
As recommened, the coast down to Big Sur from SF is gorgeous, however, it is a drive and would also require a very long day or an overnight.
I'm not much of a gambler, but I do think LV is a sight everyone should see at night, but is pretty depressing during the day. Thus, my trips to LV usually involve an evening of light seeing along the strip and downtown Fremont Street, some daytime in a casino with the lights and noise, and maybe a show. So after 2 nights I am ready to leave.
Drive to Zion is not bad. I've done a "drive through" viewing with my mother, which was not as interesting as getting off on the trails, so I'd suggest a full day there.
I thought Bryce Canyon was great. I stayed overnight in the park. Saw the most beautiful sunset. I drove out along the park road on a clear night and parked just to look at the stars. I spent a full afternoon and a full morning hiking and that I think a full day is minimum. I didn't do horseback riding, so can't comment.
I also am a fan of the north rim of the GC. I have driven there from LV before. Although it has fewer services, it has same great view.
I don't know about weather in Bryce and GC in May. They do get snow, but I'm not sure how late it lasts in the spring.
MV does add mileage. If a cut is needed....
DC is other US city that is great for tourists. Again, I like to do the tourist stuff of the Smithsonian museums, walk among the monuements, etc. with tailoring to specific interests. 3 nights sounds about right.
My husband recently has business in Philadelphia and DC and drove back and forth--it was simply awful traffic. The trains wouldn't work for him, but maybe that would be an option to get up to Newark? I don't have knowledge about that. Perhaps post a question about trains DC-Newark.
My husband often goes to NJ to visit relatives a little south of Patterson. He has stayed at the Holiday Inn Totowa and some places further west such as the Best Western in Fairfield.
I am also of the camp that thought Niagara Falls was nice, but not quite so impressive after the waterfalls at Yosemite. I took mother as that was one of her must see destinations, but it is a long way. Maid of the Mist was fun. We got a fallsview room on the Canadian side, which was nice. I was not taken by Niagara on the Lake. We drove back by the finger lakes and they seemed nice getaway destinations for the locals, but not as impressive as what you are seeing on other parts of your trip.
I don't know the immigration problems, if any, of Australians crossing to/from Canada, but I do agree that you have to know if allowed by your rental car company.
If you want another city, Boston is doable, though also a long way with transport options. There you get more American history and architecture. North to Vermont and New Hampshire does give you the small town/villages you haven't seen much of on your trip.
Rental car pickup is usually cheaper in the city because of large taxes at the airport locations. However, when you want a one-way drop off or you want to pick up/drop off in the evening or early morning, the airport locations work better. Also may have to pay taxi to airport in LV if drop off car intown. Best to price both ways. If you decide you want a car in SF, there are in-town locations you can get one at last minute.
As already reported, Memorial Day weekend has heavy automobile traffic on Friday afternoon/evening and Monday afternoon/evening out/into the cities.
SF is one of my favorite tourist cities and it is fun to do the tourist stuff--ride a cable car, take the boat to tour Alcatraz, take a drive or tour over the Golden Gate Bridge to Muir Woods to see giant redwood trees, plus whatever are your specific interests--museums, zoo, architecture, etc. I think minimum for SF, especially upon arrival is 3 days.
Yosemite Valley is gorgeous and best seen by walking and biking. Also you can go to the Mariposa Grove of giant sequoias at southern end of park. That time in May the upper elevation roads will probably still be closed, but I would think the waterfalls in the valley will be great. If you must do a single day on a bus, that is better than nothing, but it will probably be get out and walk up a short trail to take a photo, get back on the bus, etc. to make it in one day. I haven't done that tour, so maybe you can search for someone who has. I know it has been asked about before on the forum.
As recommened, the coast down to Big Sur from SF is gorgeous, however, it is a drive and would also require a very long day or an overnight.
I'm not much of a gambler, but I do think LV is a sight everyone should see at night, but is pretty depressing during the day. Thus, my trips to LV usually involve an evening of light seeing along the strip and downtown Fremont Street, some daytime in a casino with the lights and noise, and maybe a show. So after 2 nights I am ready to leave.
Drive to Zion is not bad. I've done a "drive through" viewing with my mother, which was not as interesting as getting off on the trails, so I'd suggest a full day there.
I thought Bryce Canyon was great. I stayed overnight in the park. Saw the most beautiful sunset. I drove out along the park road on a clear night and parked just to look at the stars. I spent a full afternoon and a full morning hiking and that I think a full day is minimum. I didn't do horseback riding, so can't comment.
I also am a fan of the north rim of the GC. I have driven there from LV before. Although it has fewer services, it has same great view.
I don't know about weather in Bryce and GC in May. They do get snow, but I'm not sure how late it lasts in the spring.
MV does add mileage. If a cut is needed....
DC is other US city that is great for tourists. Again, I like to do the tourist stuff of the Smithsonian museums, walk among the monuements, etc. with tailoring to specific interests. 3 nights sounds about right.
My husband recently has business in Philadelphia and DC and drove back and forth--it was simply awful traffic. The trains wouldn't work for him, but maybe that would be an option to get up to Newark? I don't have knowledge about that. Perhaps post a question about trains DC-Newark.
My husband often goes to NJ to visit relatives a little south of Patterson. He has stayed at the Holiday Inn Totowa and some places further west such as the Best Western in Fairfield.
I am also of the camp that thought Niagara Falls was nice, but not quite so impressive after the waterfalls at Yosemite. I took mother as that was one of her must see destinations, but it is a long way. Maid of the Mist was fun. We got a fallsview room on the Canadian side, which was nice. I was not taken by Niagara on the Lake. We drove back by the finger lakes and they seemed nice getaway destinations for the locals, but not as impressive as what you are seeing on other parts of your trip.
I don't know the immigration problems, if any, of Australians crossing to/from Canada, but I do agree that you have to know if allowed by your rental car company.
If you want another city, Boston is doable, though also a long way with transport options. There you get more American history and architecture. North to Vermont and New Hampshire does give you the small town/villages you haven't seen much of on your trip.
Rental car pickup is usually cheaper in the city because of large taxes at the airport locations. However, when you want a one-way drop off or you want to pick up/drop off in the evening or early morning, the airport locations work better. Also may have to pay taxi to airport in LV if drop off car intown. Best to price both ways. If you decide you want a car in SF, there are in-town locations you can get one at last minute.
As already reported, Memorial Day weekend has heavy automobile traffic on Friday afternoon/evening and Monday afternoon/evening out/into the cities.
Jan 27th, 2008, 11:50 AM
#23
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I agree on Yosemite. Stay the night. It is a magical place. Stay at the Ahwanhee Hotel if you can. I would cut a day off of SF to do this.
I would limit time in Vegas. You may get bored. I would stay one night and then move on. If you decide to stay longer, visit Red Rocks there if you want to connect with nature again.
I would not go to Niagra. It is a long drive and not worth it. I would also stay less time in NYC because I personally would want more time in Utah. Or I would use the extra time from Niagra / NYC to go to Newport RI / Boston instead.
For DC, I would stay at a hotel in Dupont Circle or Woodley Park for a neighborhood feel.
Have Fun!
I would limit time in Vegas. You may get bored. I would stay one night and then move on. If you decide to stay longer, visit Red Rocks there if you want to connect with nature again.
I would not go to Niagra. It is a long drive and not worth it. I would also stay less time in NYC because I personally would want more time in Utah. Or I would use the extra time from Niagra / NYC to go to Newport RI / Boston instead.
For DC, I would stay at a hotel in Dupont Circle or Woodley Park for a neighborhood feel.
Have Fun!
Jan 27th, 2008, 12:31 PM
#24
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Sounds like an incredible trip! I've been to all of these places except Wallkill, NY.
Just so you know my leanings, I'm originally from NYC. My family moved to Napa Valley, north of San francisco when I was a young teen. I have lived in San Francisco for over 20 years. I LOVE most of the places you have mentioned. So, with that background, here are my thoughts on your trip.
I would keep the 4 nights in SF because you will need to get over jet-lag and this is a good place to do that. I think Yosemite deserves at least one overnight. 3 nights sounds like a lot for Las Vegas, but I am not a Vegas fan. One night is enough for me. I agree that it's probably worth seeing once but 3 nights sounds endless.
I'm almost tempted to suggest that you drive from SF to Vegas through Yosemite. Take 2 or 3 days. You could even go through Death Valley, which is wonderful and unusual. But that would probably be too much. Also, the high road through Yosemite, called Tioga Rd., probably won't be open for the season yet. But I do recommend that you take away a night in Vegas to add to Yosemite.
For the Utah/AZ part, I would cut out Monument Vallley and add that time to either Bryce, Zion, or GC. The North rim of GC is a great suggestion. I was there once in that same week of May and the road had just opened and there was a lot of snow! It was absolutely beautiful. But I worry that the road might not be open yet for you. It might be safer to choose the South Rim. Hopefully someone else can advice you on that part. The GC North Rim website just says that it is usually open by mid-May. One night at GC is enough, I think. Spend a couple of nights in either Zion or Bryce. Both of those parks deserve the time. And sunrise and sunset are such great times to see them.
I'm mixed about the Niagara Falls part of your trip. It is quite a place! But it seems like it will take up a lot of your trip to go there. You could add that time to the California part of your trip: go to Monterey/Big Sur/Carmel or take that long drive through Yosemite/Death Valley. You could also add the time to the east coast part. Boston and New England would be great. But, if you have always wanted to see Niagara Falls, then go and enjoy. You could go to Buffalo, NY while you are up there and visit some of the Frank Lloyd Wright houses and see the wonderful Albert Knox Museum.
Ending your trip in New York City in a free apartment sounds wonderful. You have picked a great time of year to visit all of these places. I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Sorry for this excruciatingly long post. And the worst part is I could have kept on going. LOL
Just so you know my leanings, I'm originally from NYC. My family moved to Napa Valley, north of San francisco when I was a young teen. I have lived in San Francisco for over 20 years. I LOVE most of the places you have mentioned. So, with that background, here are my thoughts on your trip.
I would keep the 4 nights in SF because you will need to get over jet-lag and this is a good place to do that. I think Yosemite deserves at least one overnight. 3 nights sounds like a lot for Las Vegas, but I am not a Vegas fan. One night is enough for me. I agree that it's probably worth seeing once but 3 nights sounds endless.
I'm almost tempted to suggest that you drive from SF to Vegas through Yosemite. Take 2 or 3 days. You could even go through Death Valley, which is wonderful and unusual. But that would probably be too much. Also, the high road through Yosemite, called Tioga Rd., probably won't be open for the season yet. But I do recommend that you take away a night in Vegas to add to Yosemite.For the Utah/AZ part, I would cut out Monument Vallley and add that time to either Bryce, Zion, or GC. The North rim of GC is a great suggestion. I was there once in that same week of May and the road had just opened and there was a lot of snow! It was absolutely beautiful. But I worry that the road might not be open yet for you. It might be safer to choose the South Rim. Hopefully someone else can advice you on that part. The GC North Rim website just says that it is usually open by mid-May. One night at GC is enough, I think. Spend a couple of nights in either Zion or Bryce. Both of those parks deserve the time. And sunrise and sunset are such great times to see them.
I'm mixed about the Niagara Falls part of your trip. It is quite a place! But it seems like it will take up a lot of your trip to go there. You could add that time to the California part of your trip: go to Monterey/Big Sur/Carmel or take that long drive through Yosemite/Death Valley. You could also add the time to the east coast part. Boston and New England would be great. But, if you have always wanted to see Niagara Falls, then go and enjoy. You could go to Buffalo, NY while you are up there and visit some of the Frank Lloyd Wright houses and see the wonderful Albert Knox Museum.
Ending your trip in New York City in a free apartment sounds wonderful. You have picked a great time of year to visit all of these places. I hope you have a wonderful trip!
Sorry for this excruciatingly long post. And the worst part is I could have kept on going. LOL
Jan 27th, 2008, 01:07 PM
#25
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Hi Aussietraveler! First, congratulations on your wedding anniversary! That's really fantastic and glad you're choosing USofA to spend it at.
A few things.
1. Full day bus tour to Yosemite? Did I read that correctly? Unless someone is flying you there then getting on a bus, you will spend most of that day on the bus and not seeing much of Yosemite at all. I was married there this past August and it's a good 4 1/2-5 hour drive one way from San Francisco. Seeing Yosemite from a bus is a complete disservice to you and the park. This is one of the most accessible parks in the US and one that holds a special place in my heart. It is gorgeous but it definitely needs more than 1 day - at least a night would be good. Wine country is about a 45 min drive from SF. Not interested? It's beautiful there and although 2 nights would be better, 2 night should get you a good taster.
2. Utah. I agree with Dayle, Myer and a few others. Don't do one nighters and the driving distances are really much longer than you think. Especially the drive to MV (monument valley). I would concentrate, as others suggested, on the northern sites like Zion (definitely stay 2 nights at this park), 1 night in Bryce would suffice (we arrived there at 3:30 and did the navajo look and sunset/sunrise trail with the garden loop and was back up in time for sunset at bryce point - sleft overnight and headed out to escalante/and capitol reef the next day). I would try to do antelope canyon/lake powell (think of grand canyon filled with blue green water - that's lake powell), capitol reef, and calf creek hike in escalante. I did part of this in April 2007 and did a trip report if you want to see the spots we went to and how long it took us to get there.
- I like North Rim much better also, more peaceful, but the south rim is really something else to see. It IS crowded but it's worth seeing, however, with where you are, north rim is more accecible to you. Again, please don't underestimate the driving times. It's farther than you think.
3. Niagra Falls is indeed beautiful but it sure is a long drive. However, you're right. The Canada sight is much better. Also, even with the long drive, I think one night would suffice. Do a boat tour in the morning and head back out. Saves you a trip. We had done that trip from NY and stayed only 1 night but it is a looooooooong drive. Beautiful country though.
4. DC for 3 nights? There is definitely alot to see but if you concentrate on the sights alone (monuments and such), 2 nights should be enough - spend some of those nights in Utah instead. If indeed we are correct and you are outdoorsy people, you'll regret not spending enough time in Utah.
5. 8 nights iN NY? Wow, I'm jealous! Make sure to take in a broadway show (I really liked The Producer but so many others too). Get yummy desserts at Serendipity, and do a bit of shopping in Soho - but I'm sure your friend who lives there will take care of all of that for you! Lucky!
6. one month! Wow. Have fun on your first trip to the USofA! Welcome!
A few things.
1. Full day bus tour to Yosemite? Did I read that correctly? Unless someone is flying you there then getting on a bus, you will spend most of that day on the bus and not seeing much of Yosemite at all. I was married there this past August and it's a good 4 1/2-5 hour drive one way from San Francisco. Seeing Yosemite from a bus is a complete disservice to you and the park. This is one of the most accessible parks in the US and one that holds a special place in my heart. It is gorgeous but it definitely needs more than 1 day - at least a night would be good. Wine country is about a 45 min drive from SF. Not interested? It's beautiful there and although 2 nights would be better, 2 night should get you a good taster.
2. Utah. I agree with Dayle, Myer and a few others. Don't do one nighters and the driving distances are really much longer than you think. Especially the drive to MV (monument valley). I would concentrate, as others suggested, on the northern sites like Zion (definitely stay 2 nights at this park), 1 night in Bryce would suffice (we arrived there at 3:30 and did the navajo look and sunset/sunrise trail with the garden loop and was back up in time for sunset at bryce point - sleft overnight and headed out to escalante/and capitol reef the next day). I would try to do antelope canyon/lake powell (think of grand canyon filled with blue green water - that's lake powell), capitol reef, and calf creek hike in escalante. I did part of this in April 2007 and did a trip report if you want to see the spots we went to and how long it took us to get there.
- I like North Rim much better also, more peaceful, but the south rim is really something else to see. It IS crowded but it's worth seeing, however, with where you are, north rim is more accecible to you. Again, please don't underestimate the driving times. It's farther than you think.
3. Niagra Falls is indeed beautiful but it sure is a long drive. However, you're right. The Canada sight is much better. Also, even with the long drive, I think one night would suffice. Do a boat tour in the morning and head back out. Saves you a trip. We had done that trip from NY and stayed only 1 night but it is a looooooooong drive. Beautiful country though.
4. DC for 3 nights? There is definitely alot to see but if you concentrate on the sights alone (monuments and such), 2 nights should be enough - spend some of those nights in Utah instead. If indeed we are correct and you are outdoorsy people, you'll regret not spending enough time in Utah.
5. 8 nights iN NY? Wow, I'm jealous! Make sure to take in a broadway show (I really liked The Producer but so many others too). Get yummy desserts at Serendipity, and do a bit of shopping in Soho - but I'm sure your friend who lives there will take care of all of that for you! Lucky!
6. one month! Wow. Have fun on your first trip to the USofA! Welcome!
Jan 27th, 2008, 01:40 PM
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I think you have a great itinerary up until the time you take off for Niagara Falls. There are better ways to spend your time.
I wonder about the wisdom of "surprising" your friends in Patterson and Wallkill. If they don't know you're coming, they may not hang around waiting for you.
If you go to www.maps.google.com, enter "Wallkill, NY" and then write "hotels" in businesses, you will find many hotel options in the Wallkill area.
For instance, the famous Mohock Mountain House is in New Paltz--12 miles from Wallkill.
For car rentals I go to www.kayak.com and get comparisons.
I wonder about the wisdom of "surprising" your friends in Patterson and Wallkill. If they don't know you're coming, they may not hang around waiting for you.
If you go to www.maps.google.com, enter "Wallkill, NY" and then write "hotels" in businesses, you will find many hotel options in the Wallkill area.
For instance, the famous Mohock Mountain House is in New Paltz--12 miles from Wallkill.
For car rentals I go to www.kayak.com and get comparisons.
Jan 27th, 2008, 01:42 PM
#27
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I think you have a great itinerary up until the time you take off for Niagara Falls. There are better ways to spend your time.
I wonder about the wisdom of "surprising" your friends in Patterson and Wallkill. If they don't know you're coming, they may not be home when you show up on their doorsteps.
If you go to www.maps.google.com, enter "Wallkill, NY" and then write "hotels" in businesses, you will find many hotel options in the Wallkill area. The famous Mohock Mountain House, which is in New Paltz--12 miles from Wallkill.
For car rentals I go to www.kayak.com and get comparisons.
I wonder about the wisdom of "surprising" your friends in Patterson and Wallkill. If they don't know you're coming, they may not be home when you show up on their doorsteps.
If you go to www.maps.google.com, enter "Wallkill, NY" and then write "hotels" in businesses, you will find many hotel options in the Wallkill area. The famous Mohock Mountain House, which is in New Paltz--12 miles from Wallkill.
For car rentals I go to www.kayak.com and get comparisons.
Jan 27th, 2008, 02:09 PM
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In regard to the Niagara Falls controversy: It is more worth your time to fly from Australia to South America to see Iguazu Falls than it is to drive from NYC and back to see Niagara Falls.
Not that there's anything wrong with Niagara Falls. The Maid of the Mist boat ride is fun.
Jan 28th, 2008, 02:07 AM
#29
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Wow! They are all the most amazing responses! We were a little worried whether we had put together an okay itinerary! Don’t worry about your long responses, we love it! Thanks for your well-wishes on our anniversary! There have certainly been some highs and lows in those years…..got big plans for 2008 being a high!
We are going to take the suggestions on board and in particular, put Niagara Falls on the backburner. It will give us a reason to return!
We will also take out a day from Las Vegas (neither of us gamble).
You were right BMW732002, we do enjoy the outdoor stuff, although hubby probably is far more keen to do long hikes than I am! I prefer to do shorter ones and spend time sitting, relaxing and looking at the scenery!
It is looking as though we will now drive from San Fran on Monday 12th and head to Yosemite for the afternoon/night. What activities are there for this time frame? Accomodation? I have read very mixed reports about the Ahwahnee Hotel, however there are rooms available – what to do?
We have decided to keep Monument Valley, it just looks far too spectacular and stunning to miss a photo opportunity! What sort of accommodation is available in the area?
Have heard that we should visit Woodbury Common factory outlets for bargains on clothing. Is this correct?
Lincasanova, please excuse my ignorance, what do you mean “learn to do priceline”? Anything that is going to save us dollars, I am willing to learn!
So here is our revised schedule, does it sound okay?
Friday 9th May Fly from Sydney, Australia - arrive San Francisco. Spend 4 nights.
Monday 12th May – Rent a car in San Fran. Drive to Yosemite, 1 night.
Tuesday 13th May – Yosemite NP morning, afternoon drive to Death Valley, 1 night
Weds 14th May – DValley to Zion NP – see the sunset……1st night
Thurs 15th May – Zion NP….2nd night……accommodation & activities TBA
Fri 16th May – Zion NP, leave by 12noon- drive to Bryce Canyon, 1 night
Sat 17th May – Bryce Canyon……drive to Monument Valley, 1 night
Sun 18th May – Monument Valley to Grand Canyon, South Rim….see sunset, 1 night
Mon 19th – GC morning – afternoon drive to Las Vegas, drop off car, 1st night LV
Tues 20th – Las Vegas, 2nd night
Weds 21st – Las Vegas to Washington DC…..spend 3 nights
Sat 24th to Tues 27th May - Rent a car in DC – spend 4 nights driving north, visiting our friends in Patterson and Wallkill.
Weds 28th – Depart Wallkill and head south. Stop in Boston (drop off hire car)…..spend 2 nights.
Friday 30th May – Boston via train to New York. Spend 8 nights in NYC!! Staying with a friend in NYC, at East 77th St…..which train station should we get off at?
Sat 7th June – Fly JFK to San Fran. Connect San Fran to Sydney Australia.
Any additional ideas to the great ones we’ve already received, of places to see / accommodation / must eat places / shows to see, would be much appreciated!
We are going to take the suggestions on board and in particular, put Niagara Falls on the backburner. It will give us a reason to return!
We will also take out a day from Las Vegas (neither of us gamble).
You were right BMW732002, we do enjoy the outdoor stuff, although hubby probably is far more keen to do long hikes than I am! I prefer to do shorter ones and spend time sitting, relaxing and looking at the scenery!
It is looking as though we will now drive from San Fran on Monday 12th and head to Yosemite for the afternoon/night. What activities are there for this time frame? Accomodation? I have read very mixed reports about the Ahwahnee Hotel, however there are rooms available – what to do?
We have decided to keep Monument Valley, it just looks far too spectacular and stunning to miss a photo opportunity! What sort of accommodation is available in the area?
Have heard that we should visit Woodbury Common factory outlets for bargains on clothing. Is this correct?
Lincasanova, please excuse my ignorance, what do you mean “learn to do priceline”? Anything that is going to save us dollars, I am willing to learn!
So here is our revised schedule, does it sound okay?
Friday 9th May Fly from Sydney, Australia - arrive San Francisco. Spend 4 nights.
Monday 12th May – Rent a car in San Fran. Drive to Yosemite, 1 night.
Tuesday 13th May – Yosemite NP morning, afternoon drive to Death Valley, 1 night
Weds 14th May – DValley to Zion NP – see the sunset……1st night
Thurs 15th May – Zion NP….2nd night……accommodation & activities TBA
Fri 16th May – Zion NP, leave by 12noon- drive to Bryce Canyon, 1 night
Sat 17th May – Bryce Canyon……drive to Monument Valley, 1 night
Sun 18th May – Monument Valley to Grand Canyon, South Rim….see sunset, 1 night
Mon 19th – GC morning – afternoon drive to Las Vegas, drop off car, 1st night LV
Tues 20th – Las Vegas, 2nd night
Weds 21st – Las Vegas to Washington DC…..spend 3 nights
Sat 24th to Tues 27th May - Rent a car in DC – spend 4 nights driving north, visiting our friends in Patterson and Wallkill.
Weds 28th – Depart Wallkill and head south. Stop in Boston (drop off hire car)…..spend 2 nights.
Friday 30th May – Boston via train to New York. Spend 8 nights in NYC!! Staying with a friend in NYC, at East 77th St…..which train station should we get off at?
Sat 7th June – Fly JFK to San Fran. Connect San Fran to Sydney Australia.
Any additional ideas to the great ones we’ve already received, of places to see / accommodation / must eat places / shows to see, would be much appreciated!
Jan 28th, 2008, 02:25 AM
#30
It's a bit difficult to track but I don't think you've left a complete day at Bryce Canyon.
I would want to be in-park, get up very early in the morning and head over to bryce Point to see a spectacular sunrise.
Then I would at minimum hike down Navajo Loop and up Queen's Garden trails, drive up the scenic road and stop at a few viewpoints such as natural bridge.
Then head back to Sunset Point for the sunset.
You've got a great trip in the planning!!
I would want to be in-park, get up very early in the morning and head over to bryce Point to see a spectacular sunrise.
Then I would at minimum hike down Navajo Loop and up Queen's Garden trails, drive up the scenic road and stop at a few viewpoints such as natural bridge.
Then head back to Sunset Point for the sunset.
You've got a great trip in the planning!!
Jan 28th, 2008, 03:11 AM
#31
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As a Boston area resident for 30 years, I applaud your addition of Boston. Niagara Falls is beautiful, but truly after you look at a lot of water, there you are a long distance from everything.
Have a good trip. My college-bound daughter already is planning at least one of her January-month mini-semesters in Australia - she considers herself well-traveled but deprived that we have never made that trip. Perhaps I will be asking you for itinerary help in a year.
Have a good trip. My college-bound daughter already is planning at least one of her January-month mini-semesters in Australia - she considers herself well-traveled but deprived that we have never made that trip. Perhaps I will be asking you for itinerary help in a year.
Jan 28th, 2008, 03:50 AM
#32
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G'Day!
Looks like a better plan!!
I will pick up from the 24th.
Wallkill is near the Catskills Mountains. Not as spectacular as Yosemite or zion, but just another place to see a different, 'older' mountain (hills?) of the east.
Boston will be about 3 hours north/ east of Wallkill. A great town with wonderful US History! take one of those 'duck Boat' tours.
Train from Boston (probably Amtrack) will put you into NYC Penn Station (34th street and 7th avenue)
Best to take a taxi to 77th street/. Taxi stand on 34th and 7th avenue side of station. Approx $10.00 USD?
One thing we request fom you.....When you get back you need to send a detail report of this trip...I know many of us will be very interested to hear about your impressions of the USA!!
Looks like a better plan!!
I will pick up from the 24th.
Wallkill is near the Catskills Mountains. Not as spectacular as Yosemite or zion, but just another place to see a different, 'older' mountain (hills?) of the east.
Boston will be about 3 hours north/ east of Wallkill. A great town with wonderful US History! take one of those 'duck Boat' tours.
Train from Boston (probably Amtrack) will put you into NYC Penn Station (34th street and 7th avenue)
Best to take a taxi to 77th street/. Taxi stand on 34th and 7th avenue side of station. Approx $10.00 USD?
One thing we request fom you.....When you get back you need to send a detail report of this trip...I know many of us will be very interested to hear about your impressions of the USA!!
Jan 28th, 2008, 06:31 AM
#33
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I like your revised itinerary. For Boston, make sure you go to Cambridge (across the river) and walk around Havard Yard. Other highlights are Beacon Hill, Back Bay, North End. It is a great walking city. "Boston Access" is a good book to give a flavor of the different neighborhoods.
Re: the Ahwanee Hotel, the best thing about it is the location and the fact that it is an older hotel that makes you feel you are in a different time. It is right on the valley floor and so it's wonderful to be there and have all that beauty around you. I'm not sure what the reviews are saying and whether the price has increased since I stayed there. If it is within your budget, I would definitely stay there. Good luck!
Re: the Ahwanee Hotel, the best thing about it is the location and the fact that it is an older hotel that makes you feel you are in a different time. It is right on the valley floor and so it's wonderful to be there and have all that beauty around you. I'm not sure what the reviews are saying and whether the price has increased since I stayed there. If it is within your budget, I would definitely stay there. Good luck!
Jan 28th, 2008, 07:33 AM
#34
Getting from Yosemite to Death Valley "in an afternoon" is only possible by going over Tioga Pass - 3031m/9940ft. Over the past 10 years or so the road has been open on your proposed travel date - once.
If Tioga is still closed for snow, then you add around 330km to the drive to DV, turning it into an all-day trip. And given the tight timing of your itinerary (and a LOT of miles being covered) it might be a spoiler - creating dominoes as it were.
I would suggest a bit of a radical alternative. Forget Yosemite this time. You'll have plenty of stunning mountain and rock scenery in the southwest anyway. (And, by the way, watch out for conditions on the north rim of the Grand Canyon, too - it's at a significantly higher elevation than the south rim, and cold weather can last longer than you'd imagine. Same goes for Bryce too - ought to be fine, but its altitude needs to be taken into consideration.)
Instead, take your rental car/overnight day and head north from SF to the North Coast redwoods. It's about a 5-hour drive from SF to Eureka, so an easy one-night excursion. The big trees are like nothing else in the world, and from your description of how you like to visit natural sites, walks through the groves would be just your cuppa. If you want to add a day, then go one way along the coast - California Hwy 1 through Mendocino - absolutely gorgeous.
Then I would drop the car back in SF and fly to Las Vegas, get a car there and visit Death Valley using LV as a base, rather than enduring an intensely boring drive down the middle of the Calif. central valley and over into the desert. You will also save money on the car as you won't have to pay one-way drop fees. Flights from SF to LV are not expensive.
We've taken a number of overseas visitors through the redwoods, and to a person they've found it to be one of the highlights of their visits to the US. Yosemite is beautiful, but like Niagara, it's not going anywhere, and frankly it's not unique in terms of scenery - gorgeous deep valleys surrounded by high peaks can be seen in many parts of the world. The redwoods are another matter. Only here, and if the world keeps warming up, who knows for how long.
If Tioga is still closed for snow, then you add around 330km to the drive to DV, turning it into an all-day trip. And given the tight timing of your itinerary (and a LOT of miles being covered) it might be a spoiler - creating dominoes as it were.
I would suggest a bit of a radical alternative. Forget Yosemite this time. You'll have plenty of stunning mountain and rock scenery in the southwest anyway. (And, by the way, watch out for conditions on the north rim of the Grand Canyon, too - it's at a significantly higher elevation than the south rim, and cold weather can last longer than you'd imagine. Same goes for Bryce too - ought to be fine, but its altitude needs to be taken into consideration.)
Instead, take your rental car/overnight day and head north from SF to the North Coast redwoods. It's about a 5-hour drive from SF to Eureka, so an easy one-night excursion. The big trees are like nothing else in the world, and from your description of how you like to visit natural sites, walks through the groves would be just your cuppa. If you want to add a day, then go one way along the coast - California Hwy 1 through Mendocino - absolutely gorgeous.
Then I would drop the car back in SF and fly to Las Vegas, get a car there and visit Death Valley using LV as a base, rather than enduring an intensely boring drive down the middle of the Calif. central valley and over into the desert. You will also save money on the car as you won't have to pay one-way drop fees. Flights from SF to LV are not expensive.
We've taken a number of overseas visitors through the redwoods, and to a person they've found it to be one of the highlights of their visits to the US. Yosemite is beautiful, but like Niagara, it's not going anywhere, and frankly it's not unique in terms of scenery - gorgeous deep valleys surrounded by high peaks can be seen in many parts of the world. The redwoods are another matter. Only here, and if the world keeps warming up, who knows for how long.
Jan 28th, 2008, 09:17 AM
#35
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Hi AussieTraveller,
Your new plan sounds great. It's great that you plan to spend the night in Yosemite. Well worth it-top 4 national parks in the US in my opinion. (the other 3: Bryce, Zion, and Death Valley).
I feel a little guilty that I suggested that you drive to Death Valley. DV is not near anything except for Vegas. I thought you could take the long drive from Yosemite to DV, spend the night, and then get up early to see the sunrise, do one hike and then take the easy 2 hour drive to Vegas. But if you are hoping to make it to Zion that night, it changes my feelings about it. It cuts in to your time in DV and in Zion. But I do like the idea of you having a car for Yosemite and then just continuing on to the Utah desert/Vegas part with it.
You might think about spending Thurs, May 15th in Vegas and then have only one night in Vegas at the end.
And to show that I'm not wedded to talking you into going to Death valley, I like Gardyloo's suggestion as well. California is amazingly rich in natural beauty. The redwoods are stunning. And you can see redwoods closer to San Francisco than near Eureka. There's a very nice state park about an hour south of SF called Butano State Park. It would be an easy place to visit to see the redwoods on the way to the Carmel/Big Sur area. Or, if you decide to go North towards Mendocino, which would also be gorgeous, there are other redwoods to see along the way.
Lodging suggestions for the National Parks: try to stay within the Parks in Zion, Bryce, Yosemite, (and Death Valley if you go there). In Yosemite, I usually stay in the motel rooms at the Yosemite Lodge, which are more than adequate. We treat ourselves to dinner at the Ahwahnee, that way you can experience the hotel a little bit. The Zion Lodge has both cabins and motel rooms. I have only stayed in the motel rooms and those were fine. The Bryce Lodge also has motel rooms and cabins and they are fine too. In Death valley, stay at the Furnace Creek Resort. I recommend the Furnace Creek Ranch motel rooms. They are reasonable and nice. http://www.furnacecreekresort.com/
It's been too many years since I've stayed at the South Rim of the GC. North Rim has a beautiful Lodge. You can have dinner overlooking the GC, spectacular.
I'm so glad you have decided to go to Boston. It's a great city, wish I got there more often. Wonderful museums there. In addition to being a nature lover, I'm a museum stalker.
Your new plan sounds great. It's great that you plan to spend the night in Yosemite. Well worth it-top 4 national parks in the US in my opinion. (the other 3: Bryce, Zion, and Death Valley).
I feel a little guilty that I suggested that you drive to Death Valley. DV is not near anything except for Vegas. I thought you could take the long drive from Yosemite to DV, spend the night, and then get up early to see the sunrise, do one hike and then take the easy 2 hour drive to Vegas. But if you are hoping to make it to Zion that night, it changes my feelings about it. It cuts in to your time in DV and in Zion. But I do like the idea of you having a car for Yosemite and then just continuing on to the Utah desert/Vegas part with it.
You might think about spending Thurs, May 15th in Vegas and then have only one night in Vegas at the end.
And to show that I'm not wedded to talking you into going to Death valley, I like Gardyloo's suggestion as well. California is amazingly rich in natural beauty. The redwoods are stunning. And you can see redwoods closer to San Francisco than near Eureka. There's a very nice state park about an hour south of SF called Butano State Park. It would be an easy place to visit to see the redwoods on the way to the Carmel/Big Sur area. Or, if you decide to go North towards Mendocino, which would also be gorgeous, there are other redwoods to see along the way.
Lodging suggestions for the National Parks: try to stay within the Parks in Zion, Bryce, Yosemite, (and Death Valley if you go there). In Yosemite, I usually stay in the motel rooms at the Yosemite Lodge, which are more than adequate. We treat ourselves to dinner at the Ahwahnee, that way you can experience the hotel a little bit. The Zion Lodge has both cabins and motel rooms. I have only stayed in the motel rooms and those were fine. The Bryce Lodge also has motel rooms and cabins and they are fine too. In Death valley, stay at the Furnace Creek Resort. I recommend the Furnace Creek Ranch motel rooms. They are reasonable and nice. http://www.furnacecreekresort.com/
It's been too many years since I've stayed at the South Rim of the GC. North Rim has a beautiful Lodge. You can have dinner overlooking the GC, spectacular.
I'm so glad you have decided to go to Boston. It's a great city, wish I got there more often. Wonderful museums there. In addition to being a nature lover, I'm a museum stalker.
Jan 28th, 2008, 12:35 PM
#37
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i am really enjoying your itinerary and changes. i see you will have an exciting visit thanks to your research and all the recs.
Re priceline.com.
go to www.betterbidding.com and www.biddingfortravel.com and STUDY how to get the best use out of the www.priceline.com great auction website.
you can see what others have posted as far as winning bids are to help you estimate the best price to bid for your hotels.
it is nice to link to priceline through whichever of these websites you find more user-friendly to help support them.
however, i doubt any hotels in and very near these parks participate.. but it would be good for those in between nights on the road, and when you are in the big cities.
drawbacks: NO CANCELLATIONS PERMITTED, and you do not know the name of the hotel until your bid has been accepted. But this is all clear on the websites. have fun.
P.S To have a complete tour of SF by car, follow the seagull (albatros?) signs at the interesections and it will take you around the entire city in a few hours. you will not miss a thing!
the ferry to suasalito is fun, too.
Re priceline.com.
go to www.betterbidding.com and www.biddingfortravel.com and STUDY how to get the best use out of the www.priceline.com great auction website.
you can see what others have posted as far as winning bids are to help you estimate the best price to bid for your hotels.
it is nice to link to priceline through whichever of these websites you find more user-friendly to help support them.
however, i doubt any hotels in and very near these parks participate.. but it would be good for those in between nights on the road, and when you are in the big cities.
drawbacks: NO CANCELLATIONS PERMITTED, and you do not know the name of the hotel until your bid has been accepted. But this is all clear on the websites. have fun.
P.S To have a complete tour of SF by car, follow the seagull (albatros?) signs at the interesections and it will take you around the entire city in a few hours. you will not miss a thing!
the ferry to suasalito is fun, too.
Jan 28th, 2008, 12:45 PM
#38
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I have not stayed in Wallkill itself but there are a number of chain hotels in that area, if that's what you're looking for. If you want to try a B&B there are some in that area also -- if you don't find a lot of listings for Wallkill itself, try looking for New Paltz, which is nearby.
Re: Woodbury Common, it is part of a group of outlet malls with a number of locations, including several that will be on or near your route, so if you miss it you will have other opportunities:
http://www.premiumoutlets.com/centers/
Your train to NY will let you off at Penn Station (no choice) and I agree that taking a taxi to your friend's apartment will be the easiest way to get there, especially with luggage. Once you're installed, of course, the subway will be close and convenient:
http://www.mta.info/nyct/maps/submap.htm
Re: Woodbury Common, it is part of a group of outlet malls with a number of locations, including several that will be on or near your route, so if you miss it you will have other opportunities:
http://www.premiumoutlets.com/centers/
Your train to NY will let you off at Penn Station (no choice) and I agree that taking a taxi to your friend's apartment will be the easiest way to get there, especially with luggage. Once you're installed, of course, the subway will be close and convenient:
http://www.mta.info/nyct/maps/submap.htm
Jan 28th, 2008, 06:41 PM
#39
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What a small world. I'm one block off 77th street. While you're in NY, if you like healthy food, get lunch or dinner at Candle 79. For dessert, go to Payard http://www.payard.com. And if you're a music fan, check to see who's playing at Summerstage. All of the above is an easy walk from 77 st.
Jan 29th, 2008, 04:18 PM
#40
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I'd like to emphasize once again, what others have already mentioned - it's a mistake to underestimate the distances involved in driving this itinerary. I have been on two cross-country trips, including one from New York state to Alaska, and have visited most of the national parks. You have to keep in mind that many of the national parks are huge. You should leave time to not only "see" the park, but to be there long enough to feel part of the park. In my opinion, it's better to stay longer at each park - Zion, Bryce, etc. 1 night is not enough. Obviously you won't be able to start touring the park early on the day you arrive. Snow is a definite consideration in Bryce due to the high altitude. That's beautiful too, if you're prepared.
I would not go out of my way for Monument Valley. The views are spectacular from afar. It's not a National Park and doesn't have that solitude & wilderness feel. I didn't think it was worth the time to actually drive around each monument on a dusty, uninteresting road.
Lake Powell is a marvel.
I agree with the suggestion that the redwoods would be a nice change from mountain & rock scenery.
I would not go out of my way for Monument Valley. The views are spectacular from afar. It's not a National Park and doesn't have that solitude & wilderness feel. I didn't think it was worth the time to actually drive around each monument on a dusty, uninteresting road.
Lake Powell is a marvel.
I agree with the suggestion that the redwoods would be a nice change from mountain & rock scenery.
