Day 1 San Diego, CA

Let’s bid farewell to the snow and chilly weather as we head to the MSP airport for our flight to sunny California. Once we arrive, we will check in to our hotel, which is beautifully situated right on San Diego Bay. Our hotel is conveniently located within walking distance of Seaport Village, where you can explore numerous shops and enjoy delightful eateries with breathtaking views of the bay.

Hotel: Embassy Suites San Diego Bay

Day 2 San Diego, CA

We start our day with an enlightening city tour of San Diego, guided by a local expert who will share fascinating insights about this stunning city. Our journey will take us to Cabrillo National Monument, Old Town, San Diego Harbor, Balboa Park, and Downtown. We’ll also explore Horton Plaza, the Gaslamp Quarter, Mission Bay, Coronado, and La Jolla. In the afternoon, we visit the USS Midway Aircraft Carrier Museum, a remarkable piece of naval history that offers a unique perspective on the lives of sailors and aviators who served on this legendary ship. As you step onto the flight deck, you’ll be transported back in time, surrounded by a breathtaking array of aircraft, each with its own story of missions and adventures. (B)

Day 3 San Diego, CA

Today, we will delve into the wonders of the San Diego Zoo. Spanning over 100 vibrant acres, this enchanting paradise is home to more than 3,500 animals representing over 650 captivating species. You can explore immersive habitats that beautifully replicate the animals’ natural environments. At the Giant Panda Research Station, observe these adorable creatures as they enjoy their bamboo meals. Take a trip back in time at the Elephant Odyssey, where today’s majestic giants meet their ancient relatives. Lunch is included during our visit. We will conclude our day with a scenic Harbor Cruise along the picturesque San Diego Bay. (B, L)

Day 4 Torrance, CA

We travel north up the California Coast to Los Angeles. Upon arrival we will visit LA’s Famous Farmers Market. You will have plenty of time to explore and have lunch here. Afterwards, a local guide will join us for a City Tour of Los Angeles. Explore iconic Los Angeles sites like the Hollywood Sign, Dolby Theatre, and Grauman’s Chinese Theatre, along with the famous Walk of Fame. Cruise the Sunset Strip, passing music landmarks like Chateau Marmont and The Viper Room. Visit luxurious Beverly Hills, spot celebrities, and stroll along the renowned Rodeo Drive. (B)

Hotel: DoubleTree by Hilton South Bay

Day 5 Paso Robles, CA

Continuing our adventure up the coast, we’ll arrive in Solvang, affectionately known as the “Danish Capital of America.” This delightful town is a treat for the senses, with its Danish-style architecture showcasing whimsical windmills, charming shops, and bakeries serving up mouthwatering pastries like aebleskiver and kringle. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, shop, and indulge in a leisurely lunch in this quaint setting. Next, we’re off to the enchanting Hearst Castle, a museum experience like no other! In 1919, the legendary William Randolph Hearst embarked on creating an extraordinary estate on his ranchland overlooking the stunning San Simeon coastline, naming it “La Cuesta Encantada,” which means The Enchanted Hill in Spanish. By 1947, this magical hilltop was home to a twin-towered main building, three luxurious guesthouses, and 127 acres of breathtaking terraced gardens, fountains, and pools. On our Grand Rooms Tour, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a different era, experiencing the lavish lifestyle of a guest at The Enchanted Hill. Get ready for highlights like the majestic Assembly Room, the elegant Refectory, the playful Billiard Room, the classic Theater, the serene Gardens, the iconic Neptune Pool, and the opulent Roman Pool.

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express

Day 6 San Francisco, CA

Our adventure continues along the Cabrillo Highway through Big Sur to Pebble Beach, accessing the famous 17-Mile Drive to Monterey. This scenic route features stunning sights like the Lone Cypress and Bird Rock, alongside prestigious golf courses and luxurious mansions. Lunch at Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. in Monterey leads to exploring Cannery Row, a historic area transformed into a lively tourist attraction with shops, restaurants, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium. Our day wraps up in San Francisco, near Fisherman’s Wharf, where you can enjoy local cuisine, views of the Golden Gate Bridge, and visit Ghirardelli Square for shopping and dining.

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express Fishermans Wharf

Day 7 San Francisco, CA

After some leisurely time this morning, we will embark on a boat for a scenic Harbor Cruise of San Francisco Bay. In the afternoon, a local guide will join us for an exciting City Tour of San Francisco. Highlights will include the Golden Gate Bridge, Chinatown, and Alamo Square, where we can admire the iconic “Painted Ladies” Victorian homes, among other attractions. To cap off the day, we will savor an included dinner at a local restaurant this evening. (B, D)

Day 8 Yosemite National Park, CA

Breaking away from the Coastline we head California’s Sierra Nevada mountains for a visit to Yosemite National Park. A breathtaking natural wonder renowned for its stunning granite cliffs, towering waterfalls, and ancient giant sequoias. Lunch is included at the Yosemite Valley Lodge on arrival. We head over to the Yosemite Valley Welcome Center to get familiar with the Park before checking-in at our accommodations for the evening. The rest of the day is on your own to explore this beautiful place. (B, L)

Hotel: Yosemite Valley Lodge

Day 9 Napa, CA

This morning, we will embark on a tour of Yosemite National Park. Discover the rich history, diverse flora, and fascinating fauna as we explore the park’s many highlights, including Yosemite Falls, Half Dome, El Capitan, Tunnel View, Bridalveil Fall, and much more. Enjoy lunch on your own in the park before we depart for Napa, California for our overnight stay. (B)

Hotel: Embassy Suites Napa Valley

Day 10 Reno, NV

Napa is known for its world-class wine production, boasting numerous wineries and vineyards set in the stunning Napa Valley, a region blessed with a Mediterranean climate ideal for grape cultivation. Delight in an Estate Tour and Wine Tasting, accompanied by a delectable lunch at V. Sattui Winery, located in the heart of the Valley. There’s also the opportunity to wander through downtown Napa before we embark on our journey to Reno, Nevada, marking the start of our return home. (B, L)

Hotel: Silver Legacy Resort & Casino

Day 11 Elko, NV

The National Automobile Museum is our first stop this morning. It is one of the top ten automobile museums in the U.S. and has a “Wow!” factor you don’t often find in a museum. You’ll see more than 240 eye-popping cars with authentic street scenes and sounds. The rest of our day will be spend traveling to our next overnight destination in Elk, NV. (B)

Day 12 Rock Springs, CO

This morning, we cross into Utah, taking a break at the Historic Wendover Airfield Museum, the most authentically preserved World War II Army Air Force base remaining in the United States. Our next destination is Salt Lake City, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch on your own before we embark on a tour of the Utah State Capitol. Marvel at the stunning neoclassical architecture, stroll through the picturesque grounds, explore hundreds of works of art, and gain insight into Utah’s rich history. We continue our journey into Colorado, where we will spend the night in Rock Springs. (B)

Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites

Day 13 Kearney, NE

Sit back and relax as we make our way across Colorado to Nebraska. We will end our travels today in Kearney, NE. This evening we will gather one last time for a Pizza Party at our hotel. (B, D)

Hotel: Holiday Inn Express

Day 14 Home

We say our goodbyes and hug our new friends as we make our way back home today. (B)