The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada

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The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Head south from Montana, driving through Wyoming until you hit the pine forests of Colorado. After cutting across several states, relax at the four-star Ameristar Black Hawk Casino Resort Spa. This mountainside casino hotel features a rooftop pool and four separate restaurants. There are also 1,250 slot machines and over 40 table games to enjoy. Starting off in the west, the Canadian city of Vancouver has several casinos to choose from, but the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond is one of the best to begin your road trip with. It’s pretty modern, having only been built in 2005, with spacious rooms and lots to do, including a swimming pool and spa. However, there is also plenty of fun to be had in the casino itself, with over 1,100 slot machines and over 110 casino tables, including seven different types of poker to play.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip


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When most people go on a gambling holiday, they usually think of heading straight to Las Vegas or Atlantic City. But what could be more exciting than embarking on an epic road trip across the breadth of North America and Canada, stopping at some of the most exciting casinos along the way? If your answer is “nothing”, read on to see which route would be best for gamblers.


Stop 1: Rock River Casino


Rock River Casino


Starting off in the west, the Canadian city of Vancouver has several casinos to choose from, but the River Rock Casino Resort in Richmond is one of the best to begin your road trip with. It’s pretty modern, having only been built in 2005, with spacious rooms and lots to do, including a swimming pool and spa. However, there is also plenty of fun to be had in the casino itself, with over 1,100 slot machines and over 110 casino tables, including seven different types of poker to play.


Stop 2: Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel


Lucky Eagle Casino & Hotel


Driving down from Vancouver, take in the scenic coastal view from Highway 5. There are several casinos to stop at on the road to Seattle, including Tulipa Resort Casino and Great American Casino Everett. However, if you’re enjoying the drive, you can head straight through Seattle and stay at the Lucky Eagle Casino and Hotel. The hotel is operated by the Chehalis tribe, and features over 1,300 slots.


Stop 3: Grey Wolf Peak Casino


Grey Wolf Peak Casino


While it would be tempting to enjoy the Pacific Coastal Highway down to California and then Nevada, why not explore the wilderness of Montana, with pristine mountain vistas and Native American reservations to visit? The Grey Wolf Peak Casino is found on the Flathead Indian reservation, where you can learn about the tribe’s proud history and culture while enjoying the games on offer.


Stop 4: Ameristar Black Hawk Casino Resort Spa


Ameristar Black Hawk Casino Resort Spa


Head south from Montana, driving through Wyoming until you hit the pine forests of Colorado. After cutting across several states, relax at the four-star Ameristar Black Hawk Casino Resort Spa. This mountainside casino hotel features a rooftop pool and four separate restaurants. There are also 1,250 slot machines and over 40 table games to enjoy.


Stop 5: LumiГЁre Place


LumiГЁre Place


From Colorado, drive east through Kansas and Missouri until you reach the welcoming Gateway Arch of St. Louis. The city is built on the banks of the Mississippi, where old steamboat casinos would set off down the river. To get a great view of the river and the Gateway Arch, check in at Lumière Place, a modern casino with a sleek and beautiful design that lights up the skyline. It’s a great base to explore the nearby area, with Memphis and Nashville both short drives away. However, you’d be forgiven for spending all your time in the casino, with a mammoth 1,600 slot games and 55 tables.


Stop 6: Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino


Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino


Skip through several states including Illinois, Indiana and Michigan, where you can enjoy a drive along Lake Erie that’ll lead you into New York State. Follow the lake until you reach the famous Niagara Falls. Here you can stay at the Seneca Niagara Resort & Casino. The huge glass building offers panoramic views of the falls and the surrounding areas.


It was previously the Niagara Falls Convention and Civic Centre, and was refurbished to the tune of $80 million back in 2002. It’s the largest hotel in New York State outside Manhattan, with eight restaurants to choose from and several shops and spas to indulge in. The casino is just as impressive, with a whopping 4,200 slot games to play and almost 100 tables to gamble at.


Stop 7: Casino Montreal


Casino Montreal


From Niagara Falls you can cross back over the border into Canada, taking in Toronto and Ottawa, before crossing over into the French-speaking region of Quebec. Stay in the Casino de Montreal, the largest casino in all of Canada, with a gaming floor of over 520,000 square feet. This contains more than 3,200 slots and 115 table games. The three interconnected buildings that make up the casino can be found on Notre Dame Island on the St. Lawrence River, offering beautiful views of the city and the neighbouring Saint Helen’s Island.



The ultimate 90-day USA-to-Canada road trip


The ultimate 90-day USA-to-Canada road trip
The ultimate 90-day USA-to-Canada road trip


Last updated . 30 January 2020


Looking to get away for the ultimate road-trip over a couple of months? More and more, travellers are less interested in quick trips abroad to check out a handful of destinations.

Instead, they want to immerse themselves in as many varied cultures and communities as possible, and there’s no better way to do that than by road-tripping through a country you want to get to know.


The USA and Canada are two of the most sought after travel destinations for Australians, thanks to the rich landscapes, varied provinces and mammoth list of things to do.
So go on, do what you’ve always dreamed you’d do and take the full three months, start planning, and buckle in to what’s sure to be the biggest adventure of your life.


The below itinerary is is designed to start in New York City, touch the bottom of the USA, climb up the west coast before hitting Canada, from there you head straight cross country until you hit Quebec, where you can hang up your road-trip boots, or continue the eight-hour drive back to where you started: The Big Apple.


In between stops, we encourage you to create your own path based on what you love, and what’s on your must-see list. We’ve highlighted our favourite bits. It’s time for you to find yours.


Our top 3 road trip classics to add to your playlist:
“Mustang Sally” by Wilson Pickett
“Life Is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane
“I’ve Been Everywhere” by Johnny Cash


How To:


Motorhome Tours


Do Canada and USA your way with your own motorhome


To fulfil your own Great American (or Canadian) Road Trip fantasies, consider getting the hard bits done for you so you just need to bring yourself, your driving gloves and a dog-eared copy of On The Road. America Canada Motorhome Tours takes on the work so you don’t have to, having been busy organising driving tours through Canada, Alaska and the lower 48s of the USA for the past 15 years. Choose from one of their six itineraries then you can travel in your own motorhome, at your own pace, with your family and friends, yet knowing you have the support of a tour leader who will give you guidance and assistance.


On a motorhome tour, you’ll see more as you are free to stop at will, and you get so much more access to local culture as you are introduced to communities along the way. Then there is the added social life around the trip’s many campfires and, to make things better, you only unpack once.


Most itineraries are combined with hotel stays, day tours and even a seven-day cruise, and include Chicago to Anchorage, Seattle to Anchorage, Anchorage to Seattle, Route 66, Nashville to the Caribbean and Eastern Canada. It’s the ideal way to get the freedom of the road with the support of a local team.


MUST STOP: Fuel up in New York City


Starting off in New York City, before you head off on your months-long adventure, it pays to get yourself a hearty meal somewhere delicious, so you’re not itching to turn off the road at places you don’t necessarily need to stop. We suggest stopping in at Soho’s Jack’s Wife Freda for a serving of the Rosewater Waffles with a serving of their famous house cured duck bacon. You certainly won’t regret it.


Stop and explore Washington DC on your way through, or detour through the country music capital of the world, Nashville


MUST STOP: Sample the chargrilled oysters in New Orleans


As you head down Bourbon Street, swept up in the music, making your way through the slew of dancing and the colourful beads, take a right to Acme Oyster House in the French Quarter.
These babies come out sizzling in the shell, saturated in herby butter and – in true American fashion – topped with cheese. It’s a bit of a weird sensation, guzzling piping hot oysters, but what you’ll find is that this crustacean is just as delicious grilled as they are raw drizzled with lemon.


To really get into the New Orleans spirit, follow up with some Jambalaya; a New Orleans speciality, the seasoned rice comes with smoked sausage and chicken – and really hits the spot.


MUST STOP: Cool down in Austin


For a chilled back day in Austin that will make you feel like a local, head to Barton Springs Pool within the city’s green oasis of Zilker Park. This 1.2-hectare pool, flanked by grassy banks, is fed by underground springs and maintains an average temperature of between 15–21 degrees °C, making it swimmable year-round.


Pack a towel and a book and when you’re hungry, amble down the road to Barton Spring Road’s food trailer park the Picnic to experience what Austin is most famous for (besides music). From fresh fruit ice blocks to Texan barbecue and tacos, sample local fare from some of the best food trucks in town.


Where to stay: Hotel Sain Cecilia, created in honour of the patron saint of music and poetry, the Saint Cecilia takes inspiration from the great era of the late 1960’s and early 1970’s when a revolution of rock and roll and beat poetry overran the hallowed halls of established convention. They pay tribute to the great creative legacy of our revolutionary idols and to the spirit of the artist that lies within us all.


Duration: 7 hours
Don’t forget to stock up on marshmallows, crackers and chocolate bars for s’mores around the campfire.


MUST STOP: Appreciate art in Prada Marfa


The flat, dusty plains of western Texas gained an unlikely tourist attraction in 2005 when artist duo Elmgreen & Dragset installed an uncanny sculpture on the side of the highway. To the road tripper, Prada Marfa is the surrealist of sights: a luxury shop, stocked with shoes and handbags, transplanted to the middle of the desert. But it’s fake, and there are no functioning doors, which only adds to the intrigue. It all makes sense when you reach the small city of Marfa, a half hour’s drive away.


A quintessential one-horse town, Marfa was put on the contemporary art map when minimalist sculptor Donald Judd moved here from New York in the 1970s and is now home to a range of boutique accommodation options, arts and music festivals, design stores and restaurants. With a little help from Beyoncé, the town – and its namesake installation – has since become a mecca for artists, fashion lovers and Instagrammers alike.


Where to stay: El Cosmico – Sleep amongst the stars with your choice of luxury yurts, tepees and safari tents at this 21 acre nomadic hotel and campground in Marfa, Texas where they keep within the belief that life should be a balance of adventure and do-nothingness


MUST STOP: Visit Santa Fe’s Ghost Ranch


For anyone who has ever admired a Georgia O’Keeffe painting, a visit to Ghost Ranch – a one-hour drive north-east of Santa Fe – is a must. It’s where she painted her memorable modernist landscapes of flat-topped mesas and sagebrush, and the joy of following in her footsteps is realising that she didn’t need to exaggerate her colours in this corner of northern New Mexico: they really are as vibrant and hyperreal as she painted them. Today this 8500-hectare retreat, owned by the Presbyterian Church, hosts tours, workshops and spiritual retreats, but when O’Keeffe first encountered it in 1929, it was a dude ranch.


Take a guided horse trail over the land – in the shadows and see the house where the artist lived; cared for today by the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum in Santa Fe, but not open to the public. =


MUST STOP: Make sure you see Utah


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Exploring incredible Utah by car.


The Great American Road trip is a favourite pastime in the States, particularly in the American West. Utah is remarkable for the tremendous diversity of natural grandeur on display, as well as for its cultural uniqueness in amongst its neighbouring states. Stunningly scenic Utah manages to contain 27 of the country’s designated scenic byways, and either partially or entirely, it’s these that make up many of Utah’s must-do road trip itineraries. Each journey is a photographer’s paradise, a hiker’s nirvana, a Western historian’s feast, and a geologist’s ultimate dream – particularly along what locals call the Road to Mighty. There is also plenty of stunning natural beauty to be found on Utah’s backroads, locally known as the scenic backways. For something different, try it on two wheels; many of these roads are also fantastic road cycling or motorcycle routes.


MUST STOP: Explore the wonder of each hotel in Las Vegas


Often Las Vegas gets a bad wrap, depicted as ‘Disneyland for adults’, but with a heavy dose of negative connotation. I say, treat it like Disneyland and take in the sheer heights each hotel goes to bring visitors a sense of wonder. Paris the hotel has a wonderfully French feel once you’re inside. In fact, the baguettes in the window and the smell of cheese and coffee will make you forget you’re actually in the USA altogether! New York New York has a roller coasting literally running through the hotel and is set out just like the West Village on the casino floor. You can’t leave without sampling a caramel-dipped apple – that would be a sin in Sin City.


Take a detour to LA across the iconic Route 66 to stop for your quintessential jumping in the air, arms up, faded signage on the ground photo.


Then head straight to take your place at the back of the line at Pinks Hotdogs in Los Angeles to grab yourself a Martha Stewart Dog covered in relish, onions, bacon, chopped tomatoes, sauerkraut and sour cream.


Make sure you stop by Napa Valley on your way to get a quick lesson in wine and show off to your friends back home.


We are about to cross the border. Don’t forget Australians need an ESTA to enter Canada and an ESTA to enter the USA if you cross over to Alaska, plus a land-crossing authorisation (going into the US, which costs USD$6 cash at the border).


MUST STOP: Sail from Vancouver to Victoria for a few glorious days


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Sail from Vancouver and spend a glorious day in Victoria.


Connecting perhaps British Columbia’s best-known city, Vancouver, with its capital on Vancouver Island, Victoria, is as simple as V2V, as it turns out. V2V Vacations is a premium cruise service connecting downtown Vancouver and downtown Victoria, creating memorable experiences through an inspiring connection of people, places and moments along the way.


The voyage aboard the 242-passenger high-speed catamaran V2V Empress takes less than 3.5 hours, and gives travellers a premium, highly personalised journey focused on comfort and convenience. Guests can choose from two stylish seating classes and taste local flavours via the onboard menu, featuring food and both non-alcoholic and alcoholic drinks from the region.


The V2V Empress is wheelchair accessible, offers free wi-fi throughout (just as well, considering the spectacularly shareable journey) and is equipped with ergonomic leather seating with the convenience of individual USB ports and international power outlets for every seat.


From March through to October, the service departs daily from downtown Vancouver at 8am and directly from the Inner Harbour in Victoria at 4pm, allowing daytrippers the perfect access to Victoria.


What to eat: Any day, any time, you could eat your way around Canada trying a different poutine in every place.


The Arctic Circle side-trip


If you’ve time and an adventurous spirit, branch off the classic loop up and back down Dempster Highway (unsealed) to the Arctic Circle, and beyond to Inuvik (Northwest Territories). This is Ice Road Trucker territory in winter, but in summer its highlights are infinite (Read: The Arctic Circle road trip). Other more laid-back add-ons include the Southern Lakes loop (Carcross, Tagish, Marsh Lake) and The Silver Trail side-trip to Keno and Mayo.)


MUST STOP: The Yukon, who’s campgrounds are postcard awesome


Parks Canada provide some of the most stunning campground settings in the free world. The best is Fox Lake (north of Whitehorse) for its sheer reflective-lake prettiness. The secluded, well-maintained sites offer only basic facilities (clean long-drop loos, free firewood etc.) for well under twenty bucks a night. (Tip: it’s first-come, first-served so turn up before 11am when other RVers tend to move on.)


MUST STOP: Choose your own adventure in British Columbia


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Driving through the mountains of British Columbia.


Take the road less travelled in British Columbia, Canada’s famously scenic Pacific province. Taste the urban treats of Vancouver and Victoria and then choose a route into the heartland. Head east for wine country, desert landscapes, natural hot springs and Rocky Mountain snow peaks, or set your sights north for the multi-hued canyons and untouched forests of the remote Chilcotin Plateau and the Great Bear Rainforest – two of North America’s last, and largest, wilderness areas.


Farm-gate wineries, roadside diners, day hikes, waterfalls, and friendly little arts towns encourage lingering; historic lodges, cosy bed and breakfasts, and alpine resorts offer memorable overnights. You won’t see much traffic on some of BC’s backroads, but there’s plenty of wildlife – think bighorn sheep, moose, eagles and bears – to keep you company. And when the highway ends? No worries. BC Ferries cruise the coastal straits and fjords.


MUST STOP: Take a float along Lake Louise


If sailing across the water with the stunning peaks of BANFF National Park as your backdrop sounds appealing to you, then you can’t miss a stop at Lake Louise, if only for the Instagram shot. In winter the water freezes and exhilarating games of ice skating and ice hockey ensue, but in summer it’s almost too tempting to be on or in the water.


MUST STOP: Grin and bear it – Roadtripping Manitoba


Bears of the North Frontier


See them in their natural habitat


Experience the spectacular wildlife of Manitoba with an adventure by road, from the dense forests of Riding Mountain National Park to the colourful tundra of Churchill. Frontiers North’s Big Five Safari is a one-of-a-kind salute to the incredible array of megafauna that populates the forests, prairies, tundra and waters of this heartrendingly beautiful and biodiverse province.


Your journey begins in Winnipeg, the geographic centre of North America. Travel overland to Riding Mountain National Park, where the lofty heights and deep gorges of the Manitoba Escarpment are home to such impressive residents as black bears, moose and a captive bison herd. Flying north to Churchill, the boreal forest gives way to rugged tundra and the northern waterways. Set out by boat and Zodiac amongst inquisitive beluga whales, and explore the Churchill Wildlife Management Area by Tundra Buggy in search of the majestic polar bear.


MUST STOP: Finish with a taste of Europe in Québec City


Stepping into Québec City, you’d be forgiven for thinking you’d stumbled into a European city. Not at all like any other place in Canada, Québec offers a romantic ambience that makes for a truly unique end to what should definitely be the trip of your life. In the festive season, the streets are transformed into a winter wonderland reminiscent of the famed German Christmas markets. So if the timing is right for you, it’s certainly worth soaking in. Otherwise, sampling the French cuisine in one of Québec’s best eateries, such as as Paillard, which makes Québec’s best croissants and macarons is reason enough! Only 8.5 hour drive to New York City, where you can finish your trip with the legendary pastrami sandwich at Katz!



Miami Beach, The Keys, Orlando, New Orleans, Texas, Santa Fe, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon NP, Old Route 66, Las Vegas, Palm Springs & Los Angeles


The sunshine never ends on this Southern road trip. Cruise through the country from the Atlantic all the way over to the Pacific Ocean. Starting in Miami and finishing in Los Angeles, our 21-day itinerary takes in a wealth of varied cities. Not to mention the stunning National Park scenery. All whilst offering an amazing cross-section of American culture.


Southern Crossover 21 nights


All of our American road trips can be tailored to meet your requirements. Do you have more or less than 21 days for your road trip? No problem, we can bolt on extra nights to allow more time to explore or shorten the number of destinations as required. Just let us know when requesting your quote.


3 weeks with wind in my hair and sun on my face!


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 1


Arrive in glamorous Miami Beach


Arrive in the city of Miami today. With miles of beach and beautiful art-deco buildings and hotels, South Beach is the perfect base for your three-night stay. Tonight enjoy a meal at one of the curbside restaurants on South Beach and just watch the lights come up and people watch.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 2


Settle in to your South Beach hotel


Enjoy your first full day in Miami. We recommend exploring one of the many characterful neighbourhoods to really get a feel for the city. Little Havana is particularly distinctive and is home to the largest Cuban community outside of Cuba itself. Alternatively, you may want to take a refreshing visit to the 1920s built Venetian Pool in Coral Gables to enjoy this a beautifully landscaped water feature.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 3


Explore Miami Beach or the Florida Keys


Enjoy your third day in Miami. You could visit the Vizcaya Museum & Gardens overlooking the bay to learn more about the Spanish communities who have called this part of Florida home for centuries. Alternatively, relax around the pool or just enjoy walking amongst the eye-catching pastel colour buildings on South Beach.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 4


Theme park fun or just relax by the pool


Head out in your hire car today north to Orlando. This former orange-grove is infamously known now for Walt Disney World. The resort is the size of Greater Manchester alone and boasts 4 theme parks and 2 water parks. Many other parks have sprung up over the years and Orlando is now a mecca for theme park enthusiasts. The year-round climate helps make this area a golfers paradise also.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 5


More time to enjoy Orlando


Another day to explore the theme parks, water parks, golf courses or swimming pools of sunny Orlando. If you plan to enjoy the parks, be sure to ask us about how to maximise your experience by avoiding the lines.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 6


Drive north to the Florida Panhandle


Leave Orlando on the Florida Turnpike and head to the eastern end of the Florida Panhandle. St Marks Lighthouse and Wakulla Springs are two of this area’s highlights that you’ll want to visit as you start making your way west across the country.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 7


World class beaches on the Panhandle


The “Pan Handle” area in the northwest of Florida lays claim to many of the worlds best beaches along its 95-mile coastline. As you work your way west along US-98, the typical tourist area of Panama Beach make way to less developed areas including the pristine beaches of the Gulf Islands National Seashore.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 8


Cruise the Gulf shore to New Orleans


Built on the mouth of the Mississippi, New Orleans is the home of the blues, voodoo and the craziness that is Mardi Gras. The French Quarter offers great charm and is a great place to lose the car and take a walking tour.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 9


Explore the Big Easy - New Orleans


A second day to explore 'The Big Easy' and to meet the quirky characters that choose to live here. Highlights include Audubon Park, Jackson Square, Bourbon Street and enjoying freshly made beignets at Cafe Du Monde.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 10


After a long drive, spend the afternoon in Space


Houston's number one visitor attraction is the awesome Space Centre, this is a must for any road tripper visiting the Magnolia City. Want an extra day here? You only need to ask when you request your personalised quote. The team at ARTCo are always happy to add extra nights to any of our fly drive holidays.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 11


Drive through the heart of Texas


Arrive in the city of Dallas today. Be sure to try Tex-Mex cuisine here. Many Americans often claim the Mexican food here is better than in Mexico itself.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 12


A full day to explore Dallas


Put on your cowboy boots and explore the town, highlights include The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza chronicling JFK’s assassination and it’s aftermath. Check out the Reunion Tower, to give you 360 degree views of the city from its observation deck. Finish off your day in Deep Ellum, this former warehouse district is home to live music, brewpubs and restaurants with incredible barbecue and Tex-Mex.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 13


Welcome to the Texas Panhandle


We’ll show you the way to Amarillo today, as always your detailed Road Trip Pack will detail a recommended route and the things that you can be seen and do along the way.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 14


Drive old Route 66 to Santa Fe


You'll cruise on old Route 66 today! Visit Cadillac Ranch at the start of the day, and then continue west along 'The Mother Road' to the adobe styles homes, resorts and spas of Santa Fe.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Monument Valley at sunset


Day 15


Unforgettable Monument Valley - views to die for


Put your spurs and chaps on, and head to classic cowboy country. As you cross the Utah and Arizona border you’ll witness proud and majestic “Mittens”, made up of every shade of orange and red. This is another chance to prove your photography skills, although the scenery is so stunning here that even a novice will look like a pro.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 16


See Arizona’s best highlights on the way to the Grand Canyon


The worlds largest and most well known geological wonder is just staggering. Two billion years in the making, the Colorado River has forged a mile deep, 18 miles wide and 277-mile long gauge into Arizona. Following our routing, you'll stay at the South Rim which has the best facilities for viewing the canyon.



  • Key location: Grand Canyon National Park

  • Grand Canyon National Park

  • 185 Miles


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 17


Route 66 to Vegas via the Hoover Dam


Rejoin Route 66 and head west to Las Vegas, you’ll start the day in the quiet of a National Park and finish it the biggest party town in the world. Along the way, you’ll pass over the Hoover Dam which spans the divide between Nevada and Arizona, whilst creating Lake Mead to the north, one of the largest man-made reservoirs in the world.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 18


Spoil yourself in “Sin City” Las Vegas


Wake up in the luxury of Las Vegas. With so many first-class hotels, cuisine and entertainment to chose from you'll have plenty to keep you busy. Alternatively, spend the day relaxing by the pool or maybe have a flutter in the casinos.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 19


Mojave Desert, Joshua Tree and Palm Springs


Joshua Tree National Park is an alien landscape, characterized by rugged rock formations and stark desert landscapes. Named for the region’s twisted, bristled Joshua trees, the park straddles the cactus-dotted Colorado Desert and the Mojave Desert. Continue west to Palm Springs where you have a one night stop.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 20


Arrive in Los Angeles today. Tinseltown is synonymous with glitz and glamour, and although many of the studios have now moved onto other parts of the city, it's still fun to visit the home of the Oscars and walk Hollywood Boulevard looking for the handprints of your favourite movie stars. Just a short drive northeast of here lies the Griffith Observatory perched high on a hill overlooking the urban sprawl of LA, this landmark is well worth a visit and is great for views of the legendary Hollywood sign.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Day 21


So much to see and do in LA


Finish your road trip at the Pacific Ocean. Los Angeles has so many fantastic beach towns, soak in that SoCal vibe at Santa Monica or Venice Beach. You could also add extra nights in San Diego if you wanted to go further to explore. The trip is entirely customisable so just ask!


Southern Crossover


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Miami, Orlando, Florida Panhandle, New Orleans, Texas, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Joshua Tree NP, Palm Springs, LA & more


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Southern Crossover


Miami, Orlando, Florida Panhandle, New Orleans, Texas, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Joshua Tree NP, Palm Springs, LA & more


What's included?


Flights with a premier carrier, accommodation, car rental and a personalised road trip pack.


Your Personalised Travel Pack


Every road trip is unique in some way, and that’s why we create a personalised travel pack to help you get the most out of your valuable holiday time. The pack contains a day by day itinerary, driving tips, maps detailing the scenic routes, hotel information, emergency numbers and much more. This pack will provide you with the knowledge to explore North America with confidence - perfectly organised freedom is our aim.


Driving on this tour


Driving in North America is a pleasure. The roads are often wide, empty and scenic. Combine this with an automatic transmission car designed to cruise the roads of this continent, and you'll easily eat up the miles as you tour around on your fly-drive road trip holiday.


Some of our hotels are booked on a room only basis, however breakfast maybe included on certain occasions. Your quote and Itinerary Pack will detail when this meal is included. America offers food of the highest standards and widest possible choice. Don't underestimate the portion sizes too, as value for money is always apparent when dining in America or Canada. Enjoy!


Why use The American Road Trip Company


We are experienced road trippers and bring an expertise that is hard to match. This means you'll see the best places, drive the best roads and stay in the best hotels. Organising a multi destination road trip is time consuming to say the least, so why not sit back, relax and leave it to the people who live to road trip. We aim to offer you the very best value for money - whether you are looking for luxury or on a tighter budget, you'll get a great deal with us.


Click here for more reasons to book with us


How to book


Simply click one of the "Request a quote" or "Start your trip now" buttons and follow the instructions - You'll then receive a personalised quote after speaking with one of our experts. Once you are happy with road trip, simply click the "Pay Deposit Now" button on the emailed quote and leave all the work to us.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


FLIGHTS


The team at The American Road Trip Company will work hard to find you the best value and most convenient flights possible. Our preferred partners are British Airways, American Airlines and Virgin Atlantic. These airlines offer first class service and state of the art aircraft including seat-back, on-demand video and ergonomically designed seats.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


HOTELS


When requesting your road trip quotation, we’ll discuss with you about the range of accommodation available. We work with a range of properties from 2 to 5* so can adapt the trip for any budget. We have access to rooms in more than 800 hotels, motels, lodges and B&Bs across North America. We personally stay in or have recently visited the majority of the destinations and all of our accommodation goes through a strict suitability test so you can be assured of its quality.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


CAR OPTIONS


Whether you’re looking for an SUV, convertible or family saloon car we only partner with accredited, industry recognised rental car firms. We work hard to ensure you'll be handed the keys to the very best vehicles. We’ll also guide you through the car hire insurance process, which can often be confusing and expensive, making sure you have the right coverage in place for total peace of mind.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


ACTIVITIES


Road trips are often about exploring and finding memorable experiences as you go. Having said that, you’ll want to ensure some of the must see & do big ticket experiences are pre-booked in advance. Speak to our friendly and expert team about any bucket list ideas you might have for your road trip adventure, and they’ll either advise on how to self book these or they can include them in your quote as part of your package holiday.



Miami, Orlando, Florida Panhandle, New Orleans, Texas, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Joshua Tree NP, Palm Springs, LA & more


Don't forget to check out this road trip's Itinerary tab to see more amazing pictures from our 'Southern Cross Over' tour. You'll also be able to read a little bit about what you'll be getting up to on each day of this incredible road trip adventure.


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


Miami Beach Life Guard Hut


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip, The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada


3 weeks with wind in my hair and sun on my face!


Request a quote


Miami, Orlando, Florida Panhandle, New Orleans, Texas, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Joshua Tree NP, Palm Springs, LA & more


Our booking process is as easy as 1,2,3!
1. Give our friendly and knowledgable team a call on 01244 342099 or complete the form below
2. Receive a personalised, no obligation quote
3. Pay your deposit


check out the other road trip tours that explore this region


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Route 66 Explorer


Visit Chicago, Pontiac, Springfield, St Louis, Oklahoma City, Amarillo, Albuquerque, Winslow, The Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Joshua Tree NP, Palm Springs & Los Angeles


Pontiac Mural on Route 66, Illinois


Original Route 66


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Walk of fame, Stars in Los Angeles on New Orleans Road Trips


LA to New Orleans


Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon National Park, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley, Santa Fe, Route 66, Amarillo, Dallas, Houston & New Orleans


Country Music in Nashville American Roadtrip Music Tour


American Music Tour


Visit Chicago, Louisville, Nashville, Natchez Trace Parkway, Muscle Shoals, Tupelo (Birthplace of Elvis), Memphis, Clarksdale, Historic Natchez & New Orleans


Chicago Skyline at night reflections on the water, Route 66 Holidays


Ultimate Route 66


Chicago, Springfield, St. Louis, Tulsa, Oklahoma City, Amarillo, Santa Fe, Monument Valley, Lake Powell, Antelope Canyon, Grand Canyon NP, Las Vegas, Palm Springs, Los Angeles & more


Brooklyn Bridge over the Hudson, New York, NYC to New Orleans


NYC to New Orleans


NYC, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Shenandoah NP, Skyline Drive, Blue Ridge Parkway, Asheville, GSM NP, Nashville, Tupelo, Memphis, Oxford, Natchez, New Orleans & more


Museum Of Art in Philadelphia, East Coast America Road Trip


Ultimate East Coast


Visit New York, Philadelphia, Washington DC, Colonial Parkway, Outer Banks, Charleston, Savannah, Amelia Island, Orlando &, Miami Beach


Route 66 road signs in the Route 66 and Highway 1


The Big Two


Chicago, St Louis, Oklahoma City, Amarillo, Albuquerque, Grand Canyon NP, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Santa Barbara,Big Sur, Monterey, San Francisco & more


Colourful Lifeguard hut on Miami Beach, Florida, Southern Road Trip


Southern Crossover


Miami, Orlando, Florida Panhandle, New Orleans, Texas, Monument Valley, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Joshua Tree NP, Palm Springs, LA & more


Mount Rushmore Monument, South Dakota, Northern Crossover USA


Northern Crossover


Boston, Niagara Falls, Chicago, Mount Rushmore, Devil's Tower, Yellowstone NP, Grand Teton NP, Lake Tahoe, Yosemite NP, Napa, San Francisco & more


Bright colours of the Grand Canyon ON OUR Grand Tour America


Grand Tour America


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Statue of Liberty Manhattan, New York, Trans America


Trans America


New York, Washington DC, Blue Ridge Parkway, Nashville, Memphis, Route 66, Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, Zion NP, Las Vegas, LA & more



Best of USA


The one that takes you through some of the world's most iconic cities, from LA to NYC


Travel Style


Learn about our travel styles. Find out more


Duration


Places


Meals


Transport Style


Coach, 2 Internal Flights


Group Size


Expert Trip Manager, Driver and Local Guides


Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Miami, New York City


Best of USA


12 Inclusions


Experiences that are included with your trip



  • LA City tour to check out Hollywood, Santa Monica and Venice Beach

  • Walk through Venice Canals with foster dogs

  • Sip & Slide at OUE Skyspace

  • See the Seven Magic Mountains

  • Evening tour of the famous Las Vegas 'Strip'

  • Visit Fremont Street for the light-and-laser show

  • Flight and transfer to MIami

  • Walking tour of Little Havana

  • Flight and transfers to New York

  • City sightseeing tour

  • 7 Day Metro Pass

  • Visit the Statue of Liberty


15 Free Time Add-Ons


Optional experiences that you can choose from and pay for on your trip



  • Universal Studios USD $104.00

  • Food tour in downtown LA

  • Paramount Backlot Tour

  • VIP club entry

  • High Roller Anytime USD $32.00

  • Dig This Experience

  • Top Golf Experience

  • Sky Combat Ace Experience

  • Stratosphere Sky Jump

  • Helicopter Flight - Grand Celebration USD $380.00

  • Thriller speed boat ride in Miami USD $33.00

  • Learn how to salsa dance in Miami

  • Clear water kayaking

  • Bike tour of South Beach USD $35.00

  • Central Park Bike Tour (seasonal) USD $42.00


Where You'll Stay


Learn more about the accommodation available on this trip


All accommodation is included on this trip


We always provide comfortable accommodation in a relaxed atmosphere - think comfy, centrally located hotels, comfy pillows and the best crew to travel with.


About this trip


LA, Vegas & NYC - you're not just seeing the best of the USA, you're seeing some of the best cities in the world. And you're doing it in the very best way. Dance the night away in Vegas, see beautiful South Beach & shop up a storm on Fifth Avenue.


Buy With Confidence


Reserve your space now with a deposit, pay the rest 45 days before departure



Pay over time, interest free


Can't pay in full? We've got you covered with our Part Pay Program



No booking fee, no change fees


Change your travel dates or even your trip for free


Can't travel? Save your deposit for a new trip or gift it to a mate


Map & Itinerary


Nights spent per location


DAY 1 - Arrive Los Angeles


Los Angeles


INCLUDED EXPERIENCES


LA City tour to check out Hollywood Santa Monica and Venice Beach


Walk through Venice Canals with foster dogs


Sip and Slide at OUE Skyspace


DAY 2 - Los Angeles


Los Angeles


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


Food tour in downtown LA


DAY 3 - Los Angeles to Las Vegas


Los Angeles


Las Vegas


INCLUDED EXPERIENCES


See the Seven Magic Mountains


Evening tour of the famous Las Vegas 'Strip'


Visit Fremont Street for the light-and-laser show


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


DAY 4 - Las Vegas


Las Vegas


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


Sky Combat Ace Experience


DAY 5 - Las Vegas


Las Vegas


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


Helicopter Flight - Grand Celebration


DAY 6 - Las Vegas to Miami


Las Vegas


Miami


INCLUDED EXPERIENCES


Flight and transfer to MIami


DAY 7 - Miami


Miami


INCLUDED EXPERIENCES


Walking tour of Little Havana


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


Thriller speed boat ride in Miami


Learn how to salsa dance in Miami


DAY 8 - Miami


Miami


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


DAY 9 - Miami


Miami


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


Bike tour of South Beach


DAY 10 - Miami to New York


Miami


New York City


INCLUDED EXPERIENCES


Flight and transfers to New York


DAY 11 - Hello Big Apple!


New York City


INCLUDED EXPERIENCES


Visit the Statue of Liberty


DAY 12 - New York City


New York City


FREE TIME ADD-ONS


Central Park Bike Tour (seasonal)


DAY 13 - Depart New York City


New York City


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Frequently Asked Questions


What health and hygiene protocols are in place on trip?


What documents do I need to travel?


Depending on your nationality, you may require visas to enter the USA and Canada on your trip. You are fully responsible for obtaining all necessary visas prior to the departure of your trip. You can find more info at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov. Contiki is not legally permitted to knowingly allow anybody who does not have a valid visa to join a trip. Visa and other entry & exit conditions (such as currency, arrival/departure taxes, customs and quarantine regulations) do change regularly.


Your passport must have at least six months’ validity remaining when you arrive. Local immigration authorities may deny entry and deport people who do not meet this requirement, even if they only intend to stay for a short period. Important to consider:


• Visas can take up to six weeks and a fee is normally charged
• Failure to obtain all necessary visas could cause you to miss part of
your trip and will result in you incurring considerable expense and
inconvenience
• It is better for you to apply for all visas before you leave home
• It is essential that the entry and exit dates are correct on the visa


What are the luggage restrictions?


On our American trips you can bring one bag or suitcase of 73 x 50 x 25 cm (or 29” x 20” x 10”), with a max weight of 20 kg (44 lbs) & one piece of hand luggage.


What do the Contiki team do?


People are at the heart of everything we do, and our team is what makes our trips the best. Our worldwide On-Road Team, locally based staff & network of Local Guides are all extensively trained & widely travelled, & are the best in the business. But we know it’s not just about training, it’s about passion & our team have it in their blood. Their passion for getting you in the know on every single detail of America is what makes our travellers walk away from their experience knowing that they made every moment count. Your Trip Manager is like your walking, talking guidebook – just for you. They plan your itinerary every day, organise your food and accomodation and book your Free Time Add ons, and because they know everything about where you’re going, you will too. Your Drivers are the experts on getting you from A to B efficiently and safely in North America. They know their way around like the back of their hands & they’ll drop you at your door & unload your bags for you. Local guides provide specialist knowledge when you need it and will always help you avoid the tourist traps.


What's not included that I should budget for?


Aside from essentials like flights, how much spending money you’ll need will depend on the duration of the trip and how much you anticipate spending on personal expenses like alcohol or shopping. Before you travel, it’s also a good idea to read up on and get an idea of the Free Time Add-Ons you think you’ll want to do on trip, as these will form part of your overall budget. We’d advise doing some research on your chosen destinations beforehand, looking at things like:


- Cost of a bottle of water


- Cost of entry to a sightseeing spot


Tipping is customary in North America. It is an accepted practice in all areas of the service industry, & particularly in restaurants, bars, hotels & taxis. It’s common practice to tip if you feel that the service provided has been excellent.
The same goes for your Contiki Team. If you feel that your Trip Manager & Driver’s service has been exceptional, then feel free to tip them if you feel they’ve done a great job. If you choose to tip, we recommend around US$3 per person per day, however whether or not you choose to tip (& how much) is up to you.


Will I be able to access WiFi on my trip?


We love WiFi, and keeping your accounts updated as you travel is key! The hotels all have WiFi where you can access your email to let your friends & family know you have arrived safely in Los Angeles, or email after your trip with all your stories.



Checking In: Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa Florida


When I got offered an invite to jet off for a weekend at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa, I was quick to say yes. What better way to escape winter than a weekend by the pool in ever-sunny Florida? The property, which is Florida’s largest casino, was recently expanded to the tune of $720 million, so everything there is shiny and new, like their new 14-story hotel tower and a 223,900-square-foot casino. The grand entrance to the lobby also features one of the coolest pieces of music memorabilia that I’ve ever seen - Elvis’ iconic gold piano, a 24-karat gold leaf plated 1928 Kimball Piano Company Grand Piano! They sure know how to make an impression here at the Hard Rock.


Little Rock & Hot Springs Arkansas: A 3-Day Itinerary


Have you ever thought about road tripping to Arkansas? I didn't realize how much the state had to offer, but now that I've been, I can see why they call it The Natural State! I recently had the opportunity to do a 3-day weekend getaway to Little Rock and Hot Springs, Arkansas, and I wanted to share with y'all my itinerary from the trip, as well as my top picks for things to do, where to stay, and where to eat in each locale. So buckle up folks, and let's go for a road trip!


Ultimate Death Valley Road Trip: A 5-Day Itinerary from LA


Death Valley has been on my bucket list for a long time, so I was very excited when I was presented with the opportunity to road trip from LA to Death Valley thanks to my friends at Visit California. You can use their Road Trip Finder search tool to plan your own epic road trip, whether it’s to Death Valley like mine or other awesome spots like the North Coast, Palm Springs, or Yosemite, just to name a few! My trip was based upon the Discovering Death Valley itinerary and expanded, so check out my itinerary below for the ultimate Death Valley adventure starting from Los Angeles.


Cruise Review: 11-Day New England & Canada on the Seabourn Quest


For this adventure, we boarded the Seabourn Quest in Boston, Massachusetts, where we set a course for Montreal, Canada and an 11-day journey to get there. Our trip took us through ports across the East Coast of the U.S. and Canada, including Provincetown (Massachusetts), Bar Harbor (Maine), Halifax, Prince Edward Island, Cap-aux-Meules, Saguenay, and Québec City. Depending on the weather and your luck, you may even get some fall foliage on this itinerary! The 11-Day New England & Canada cruise on the Seabourn Quest is a great way to experience this area of both countries while traveling in luxury.


Cruise Review: Royal Caribbean's Navigator of the Seas


The Navigator of the Seas was amplified in early 2019 to the tune of $115 million, and I got to be one of the first to experience the new additions and reimagining of the ship! Some changes include the first blow dry bar at sea, To Dry For, a new Caribbean poolscape, new and improved dining and nightlife options, and more. For our sailing, the itinerary was a 5-day trip roundtrip to-and-from Miami via the Bahamas and Haiti (at Royal Caribbean’s private island, Labadee), with two full days at sea. One of the nice things about being on a larger ship like the Navigator of the Seas is that there was always plenty to do during the sea days, so we were never bored (but more about that later)! You can find future sailing dates for the Navigator of the Seas and additional info about the ship here. Without further ado, here’s everything you need to know about the new-and-improved Navigator of the Seas!



Historic Route 66


From £3471 per person based on twin occupancy of Standard rooms in low season. Other prices available on request.


Arrive Chicago


Depart the UK on your chosen scheduled flight to Chicago. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, where a welcome meeting will be held in your hotel for you to meet your tour leader and fellow travelling companions. Relax and enjoy the remainder of your day by grabbing a slice of deep-dish pizza before venturing up the Willis Tower, or take to the streets for your very own walking tour along the shores of Lake Michigan.


Springfield


After leaving Chicago, your first stop on your Route 66 holiday is the town of Pontiac to see the fantastic Main Street murals celebrating Route 66, the Pontiac automobile brand, and local cultural and political history. A collection of more than 150 artists known as the `Walldogs’ painted a collection of 18 murals in just four days in the summer of 2009. Then you’ll head south to the iconic Route 66 stop of Springfield, the capital of Illinois. Springfield’s favourite son was Abraham Lincoln and you’ll pay a visit to the Lincoln Home National Historic Site, the home that he lived in with his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, from 1844 until 1861 when he became US President. Springfield is also the birthplace of the corndog and drive-thru restaurants, so make sure you arrive with an empty stomach!


St Louis


From Springfield, it’s only a couple of hours drive to St Louis, Missouri. St Louis is one of the largest cities in the USA with a metropolitan population of over 2.8 million. Founded in 1764 it became a major port on the Mississippi River and even hosted the Olympic Games in 1904. The Gateway Arch commemorates the settlement of America’s West and it was from here that countless pioneers set out to conquer the wild frontier. Stop at Ted Drewes, an iconic Route 66 tour attraction, where you can try a ‘Concrete’, an extremely thick milkshake made from vanilla frozen custard. Spend the evening checking out the city’s vibrant nightlife at your leisure.


Branson


Home to Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede and considered an alternative version of The Strip, country music is to Branson what gambling is to Las Vegas. With over 50 dinner theatres, shows and other entertainment oddities, Branson is where it’s at in Missouri. It unleashes a hefty dose of pure Americana and a wonderful playlist to enjoy it to.


Oklahoma City


Today you will make your way to Oklahoma, with more driveable miles of the old highway than any other state, it’s a mecca for fans of the ‘Mother Road’. Oklahoma City is the capital and the largest city in the state. You spend a couple of nights here and can enjoy a full day discovering some of the city’s many cultural attractions. Visit the Route 66 Vintage Iron Motorcycle Museum and the historic Coleman Theatre – built in the late 1920s in the era of vaudeville and silent films. Oklahoma is also the gateway to cowboy country so what could be a better introduction to the ‘Wild West’ than an optional visit to the National Cowboy and Western Heritage Museum. A top tip is to swing by the many food trucks scattered around the city and sample some local flavours at reasonable prices.


Amarillo


Amarillo in the state of Texas is your destination for today. Before you leave Oklahoma and get on your ‘Way to Amarillo’, you’ll visit the ‘official’ Route 66 Museum to learn about the legends surrounding the road you’re travelling on, and make a short stop at Lucille’s Service Station & Roadhouse. Then you make your way to the Big Texan Steak Ranch for a steak meal (optional). If you can eat a 72-oz. steak in less than one hour, you get it for free! This is ‘Man Vs Food’ for real!


Albuquerque


Your Route 66 road trip continues with a visit to the Cadillac Ranch, where 10 classic cars are buried nose-down in the dirt. The owners encourage graffiti, so you can grab a spray can and leave your mark! After a short driving time, you reach the Midpoint Café, the midway point between Chicago and Los Angeles, which is famous for hot coffee and rolls. Today you make a stop at Tucumcari Post and Curios, an eccentric souvenir store and drive through the Tijeras Canyon which cuts the Southern Rocky Mountains from east to west.


Gallup


Drive along the Rio Puerco Valley to Inscription Rock, a cliff face at El Morro National Monument where you can observe Native American petroglyphs. Cross the Continental Divide en route to Gallup. Stay at the El Rancho Hotel, a little slice of history which counts John Wayne and Katherine Hepburn amongst its famous guests.


Grand Canyon (South Rim)


Stop at the Petrified Forest National Park to see the different colours of rock layered on top of each other. Pass through Winslow and see the location mentioned in The Eagles’ lyric, “standin’ on the corner in Winslow, Arizona”. The Grand Canyon is the ultimate symbol of the Desert Southwest and a spectacle not to be missed. It’s not on the original Route 66, but it’s so close it would be a crime to pass it by! This incredible natural wonder is difficult to comprehend. You’ll have plenty of opportunity to explore the park at your own pace. In your free time, we highly recommend a scenic helicopter flight over the canyon, which offers perspectives that you simply can’t see visiting on foot. Venture down the Bright Angel Trail to Plateau Point, or stroll along the more leisurely West Rim Trail and catch a shuttle bus out to Hermit’s Rest. Finish your day by watching the amazing IMAX film, ‘The Grand Canyon Experience’, and enjoy a spectacular sunset over one of the world’s natural wonders!


Las Vegas


The historic Route 66 town of Seligman and its Snow Cap Diner makes for a quirky stop on route to Vegas, especially since it’s filled to the brim with pure Americana. Once in Vegas and if it’s gambling you want, you’ve come to the right place, as nowhere else in the world will you find so many casinos. In Las Vegas you’ll enjoy a city tour to discover some of the quirky things that epitomise this city, as well as learning about some of its colourful history. You also have time for some last-minute shopping and to relax by the pool before a night out on the town amidst the bright lights and world-class shows.


Journey Home


On your final day, you have the endless sunshine of California in your sights, following Route 66 across the great Mojave Desert to the city of Los Angeles. You’ll toast farewell to an epic American road trip and to your new friends, from the iconic Santa Monica Pier, before you transfer to the airport for your flight home.


Get in Touch


Our team of travel professionals focus on providing you with the very best advice when it comes to planning your holiday to the USA and Canada. They have experienced the destinations, hotels, tours and excursions for themselves, so if its expert advice and guidance backed by faultless customer service that you are looking for, you couldn’t’ be in safer hands. We will listen to your wish list of ideas as well as add our own personal recommendations to create a unique itinerary, personalised just for you.


For a quotation based on your preferred travel date and to check availability please contact one of our team of professional consultants who will be happy to assist you.



Top 10 American road trip movies


Read time: 7 mins


Given that nothing beats the adventure of a car or motorcycle journey, it’s obvious why no other mode of travel has inspired Hollywood’s filmmakers quite like the road trip. Here’s our round-up of the 10 most praised and prized US road trip movies, all of which share an appreciation for self-discovery on America’s wide open roads.


thelma louise 1991


Sideways (2004)


The plot: Alexander Payne’s Oscar-winning dark comedy about two middle-aged men embarking on a road trip around Californian vineyards not only made an impact on the sales of Pinot noir, but on American wine generally. The story centres on a pair of mismatched friends - aspiring writer and wine geek Miles (Paul Giamatti) and the soon-to-be-married Jack (Thomas Haden Church) - who hit the road en route to a mid-life crisis. As the misbehaving duo drink their way around Santa Barbara Wine Country, the non-stop embarrassing encounters (mostly involving wine and women) keep this touching film on the right side of funny.


The journey: Sideways did wonders for the once-fledgling winemaking industry in Santa Ynez Valley (the number of wineries tripled and the number of wine-curious travellers dramatically increased). Filmed almost entirely on location throughout Solvang and the Santa Ynez Valley, key spots included Sanford Winery on Santa Rosa Road (where Miles taught Jack how to taste and appreciate wine) and Foxen Winery on Foxen Canyon Road (where Jack swiped a bottle and poured himself and Miles some more wine). Equally standout is Hitching Post II on 406 E Highway 246 - the upscale American steakhouse where the bottle-tilting heroes dine.


sideways movie 2004


Beavis & Butt-Head Do America (1996)


The plot: Following their stint on MTV, Mike Judge’s deliriously dim-witted, heavy-metal loving, and obnoxious teenage delinquents Beavis and Butt-Head landed their own full-length film - the plot of which centres around recovering their stolen TV. Their search results in the no-brain buddies (both voiced by Judge) embarking on a road trip from Las Vegas to Washington DC. Expect a dastardly murder-for-hire storyline, puerile humour, and celebrity cameos that include Bruce Willis and Demi Moore as contract killer Muddy Grimes and his estranged wife Dallas, and Robert Stack as Agent Flemming - the FBI chief with a fascination for full cavity searches.


The journey: After an amusing stop in Las Vegas which features animated versions of real-life hotels and casinos, all roads lead to the White House (most hilariously, former first daughter Chelsea Clinton's bedroom). Other key locations included the Hoover Dam, the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone National Park, and Petrified Forest National Park. And then of course, there’s the Arizona desert scene in which Beavis consumes a peyote cactus and has a vivid psychedelic experience (the animation for this sequence was based on the works of Rob Zombie; listen out for White Zombie’s Ratfinks, Suicide Tanks and Cannibal Girls playing in the background).


beavis butthead do america 1996


Thelma & Louise (1991)


The plot: While controversial at the time of its release, Ridley Scott’s girl-power meets crime-spree-road-trip film scooped six Academy Award nominations and one win for Best Original Screenplay. The movie sees put-upon friends Thelma (Geena Davis) and Louise (Susan Sarandon) heading off in a 1966 Ford Thunderbird convertible for a weekend away from their boring Arkansas lives. But after a stop (and subsequent shooting) at a roadhouse bar, things take a rather dark turn. With blood on their hands, the outlaw pair have no choice but to dodge the cops and flee to Mexico (famously picking up a young Brad Pitt along the way).


The journey: Although the road trip was set on a fictional route from Arkansas to Arizona, the movie was filmed almost entirely in the state of California and Utah (the Grand Canyon scenes were shot just south of Dead Horse Point State Park). The motel where Thelma and Louise met up with handsome hitchhiker J.D. (played by Pitt) is the Vagabond Inn just south of downtown LA, while the bar in which Harlan Puckett attempted to rape Thelma is the Silver Bullet Bar in Long Beach (now the Cowboy Country Saloon). Further filming locations that doubled as the rather flat New Mexico included the La Sal Mountains, Arches National Park, and Canyonlands.


thelma and louise 1991


Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan (2006)


The plot: Taking his outrageous Kazakhstani reporter character Borat to the big screen was not without consequence for Da Ali G Show creator Sacha Baron Cohen - Kazakhstan’s government famously took out fury-filled ads in the New York Times to show their distaste. This intentionally inappropriate mockumentary-cum-comedy sees Cohen's hapless alter ego, Borat Sagdiyev, heading to the USA to make a documentary about all that’s great and good about the nation. With a documentary crew in tow, he not only drives a battered old ice-cream van from New York to California in the hope of marrying Baywatch beauty Pamela Anderson, but he also manages to offend a huge amount of unsuspecting Americans along the way.


The journey: New York got a good chunk of screen, especially Trump International Hotel and Tower, Times Square, Central Park, and the Wellington Hotel on 7th Avenue in midtown Manhattan (when Borat reached his room, he felt like “da king of the castle”). Further filming locations included Gaithersburg in Maryland, Salem in Virginia, and Orange County in California where Borat finally comes face-to-face with Pamela Anderson at a book signing at Virgin Megastore (his attempts to put Pam in a sack and kidnap her are hilarious).


borat movie 2006


The Muppet Movie (1979)


The plot: The first cinematic outing for Jim Henson’s colourful Muppets crew sees Kermit the Frog persuaded by agent Dom DeLuise to leave his beloved swamp and pursue a career in Hollywood. Along the way, this banjo-playing superstar with ping-pong eyes and a felt green body (made from an old coat belonging to Henson’s mother) picks up Fozzie Bear, Miss Piggy, Gonzo, rock musicians Dr. Teeth and the Electric Mayhem, and a heap of other Muppets with starry aspirations. Meanwhile, Kermit must watch out for unscrupulous restaurant magnate Doc Hopper and his sidekick Max, who plan to use him as the face of their Frog Legs food chain.


The journey: Once Kermit leaves his Louisiana swamp (in real-life, a grove of mossy oaks in Rancho San Carlos), it’s the scenes in Los Angeles that are the most memorable. Primary locations included the World Wide Studios (really CBS Studio Center on 4024 Radford Avenue in Studio City), the iconic Hollywood sign, and Hollywood Boulevard. Landmarks such as the Capital Records building and Grauman's Chinese Theatre can also be seen in the background as the Muppets drive around the city in a 1946 Ford Woodie station wagon.


muppet movie 1979


Zombieland (2009)


The plot: Set in post-apocalyptic America, this arguably brilliant horror comedy sees shy college student Columbus (played by Jesse Eisenberg) making his way from the University of Texas to his hometown of Columbus, Ohio to be reunited with his (hopefully alive) family. He soon hooks up with insane zombie-killer Tallahassee (Woody Harrelson) who is driving around in his black Cadillac Escalade to seek asylum and track down Twinkies. The unlikely duo then encounter two con-artist sisters Wichita (Emma Stone) and Little Rock (Abigail Breslin) and the foursome have the run of America as they reluctantly take on the battle against the undead.


The journey: Despite appearing to range across the country, the movie was shot almost entirely in Georgia. The theme park scenes for the climax at the fictitious Pacific Playland were mostly filmed at Wild Adventures Water and Theme Park in the small town of Valdosta. Some of the rides prominently featured in the film included Pharaoh's Fury, Double Shot (renamed Blast Off), Rattler, Aviator, and Bug Out. A haunted house facade was also set up at the theme park, but the interiors for this were filmed at Netherworld Haunted House in Atlanta.


zombieland 2009


Little Miss Sunshine (2006)


The plot: It only cost £4 million to make, but this indie drama-comedy scooped two Oscar gongs for Best Supporting Actor and Best Original Screenplay. The plot follows the dysfunctional Hoover family who drive from Albuquerque to California so that seven-year-old Olive (Abigail Breslin) can complete in the Little Miss Sunshine beauty pageant. Piled into a beat-up yellow VW campervan, the sanity of the passengers - including working mother Sheryl (Toni Collette), motivational speaker father Richard (Greg Kinnear), suicidal uncle Frank (Steve Carell), silent brother Dwayne (Paul Dano), and surly grandpa (Alan Arkin) - is tested at every turn.


The journey: While it was well-noted that anyone following the Hoover’s emotionally-charged route should be forewarned (the film shows a little enhanced geography), the family’s trip technically started in New Mexico’s Albuquerque and ended up in California’s Redondo Beach. Shot between Arizona and Southern California over a 30-day stint, key locations included the Hyatt Regency Valencia, Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park, and the Crowne Plaza Ventura Beach (this doubled for Redondo Beach in the beauty pageant scenes).


little miss sunshine 2006


Easy Rider (1969)


The plot: Counter-culture classics don’t get more monumental than this biker buddy flick in which spirited freewheelers Wyatt (Peter Fonda) and Billy (Dennis Hopper) wrap up a drugs deal and travel from Los Angeles to New Orleans by motorcycle, hoping to make it in time for Mardi Gras. It’s a tale that has it all: Harley-Davidson chopper-style bikes, the free love movement (as well as LSD, communes, and marijuana), and the poignant tagline of “A man went looking for America. And couldn’t find it anywhere”. With a budget of well under $1 million, not only did this epic film (a rite of passage for college-age kids) gross more than $60 million worldwide, but it ignited a revolution in moviemaking that hasn’t been recreated since.


The journey: Since almost the entire film was shot on location, the backdrops (Los Angeles, Death Valley, Colorado, New Orleans) are all accessible to bikers (fans with money to burn can even sign up for a 2589-mile Easy Rider Motorcycle Tour). Iconic spots included La Contenta Bar (now the Red Arrow Emporium in El Prado), the ghost town of Ballarat in Death Valley, and sections of Route 66 between Needles and Flagstaff (the entire opening sequence was filmed here). Also worth a look is Bellemont in Arizona for Pine Breeze Inn - the roadside relic where the duo attempted to spend the night until the owner lit the "No Vacancy" sign.


easy rider 1969


Rain Man (1988)


The plot: Brotherhood is more important than cash is the underlying message in Barry Levinson’s Oscar-winning and crowd-pleasing drama. Enraged to find out that his late father has left a multi-million dollar inheritance to his estranged and autistic brother Raymond (Dustin Hoffman), two-bit hustler and all-round selfish guy Charlie Babbit (Tom Cruise) plans to wrangle the money for himself. He kidnaps Raymond, but after driving cross-country for a week, the road trip turns into a journey of self-discovery and understanding for the long-lost brothers (as well as a sympathetic, sentimental, and sob-worthy experience for the audience).


The journey: The brothers' road trip in Charlie’s 1949 Buick Roadmaster convertible starts in Ohio’s Cincinnati and ends up on LA. Key filming spots included the “Wallbrook" institution - the real-life Sisters of Divine Providence's St. Anne Convent (the film's iconic poster shows the duo travelling down its long oak-lined entrance near the intersection of St. Anne Drive and Mary Ingles Highway). Most memorable, though, is the Las Vegas casino scene that was filmed at Caesars Place (to this day, the hotel’s Emperors Suite is still referred to as the Rain Man Suite).


rain man 1988


Into the Wild (2007)


The plot: Written, co-produced, and directed by Sean Penn, this powerful adaptation of Jon Krakauer's non-fiction book of the same name follows the real-life travels of Christopher McCandless (Emile Hirsch) in the 1990's. The tragic story has been well-documented: wealthy 24-year-old graduate turned vagabond hitchhikes to Alaska with little more than a .22-caliber rifle and a 10-pound sack of rice, sets up camp in a 1940's-era International Harvester bus, and lives here for four months before starving to death. His body was discovered by moose hunters just outside the northern boundary of Denali National Park; the exact cause of death was unknown.


The journey: The marathon two-year shoot encompassed 35 different locations throughout the USA, including Georgia, South Dakota, Arizona, Nevada, Mexico, Oregon, Colorado, California, and Alaska. The route also included some legendary hiking trails, most famously the dangerous Stampede Trail near Healy that passes by McCandless’ dilapidated “Magic Bus 142” in Alaska’s Denali National Park (most brave Into the Wild fans make it there and back safely, but many end up needing rescuing by the park authorities and state troopers).





So, let's define, what was the most valuable conclusion of this review: When most people go on a gambling holiday, they usually think of heading straight to Las Vegas or Atlantic City. But what could be more exciting than embarking on an epic road trip across the breadth of North America and Canada, stopping at some of the most exciting casinos along the way? If your answer is “nothing”, read on to see which route would be best for gamblers! at The Ultimate North-American Casino Road Trip in Canada

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