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Day 1: Arrival in New York City and Exploring the Big Apple
Start your 7-day United States adventure in the city that never sleeps, New York City. After arriving at one of the three major airports (JFK, LGA, or EWR), take a taxi or ride-share to your hotel in Midtown Manhattan. Spend the afternoon exploring iconic attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and Times Square. For dinner, head to Carmine's, a family-style Italian restaurant in the heart of the city.
Must-see Attractions:
- Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Take a ferry to Liberty Island to see up close the iconic statue and learn about its history at the nearby Ellis Island Immigration Museum.
- Central Park: A tranquil oasis in the middle of Manhattan, offering walking paths, lakes, and plenty of green space.
- Times Square: The heart of New York's entertainment district, known for its bright lights, giant billboards, and lively street performers.
Day 2: New York City Landmarks and Iconic Views
Start the day with a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, a poignant tribute to the victims of the 2001 attacks. Next, head to the Empire State Building for panoramic views of the city from its observation deck. End the day with a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge for spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.
Recommended Restaurants:
- Katz's Delicatessen: A classic Jewish deli on the Lower East Side, serving up pastrami sandwiches and matzo ball soup.
- Carbone: An upscale Italian-American restaurant in Greenwich Village, known for its retro decor and over-the-top dishes.
Day 3: Washington D.C. and the National Mall
Take an early morning train from New York's Penn Station to Washington D.C.'s Union Station (approximately 3.5 hours). Spend the day exploring the National Mall, visiting iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
Must-see Attractions:
- Lincoln Memorial: A stunning tribute to the 16th President, featuring a large marble statue and inspiring views of the National Mall.
- World War II Memorial: A poignant tribute to the 16 million Americans who served in the war, featuring a pool, fountains, and 4,000 gold stars.
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum: One of the world's largest and most comprehensive collections of historic aircraft and spacecraft.
Day 4: Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona
Take a morning flight from Washington D.C. to Phoenix, Arizona (approximately 4.5 hours), then drive to Grand Canyon National Park (approximately 3.5 hours). Spend the day exploring the South Rim, hiking along the Rim Trail, and taking in the breathtaking views of one of the world's most iconic natural wonders.
Recommended Activities:
- Mather Point: A popular viewpoint on the South Rim, offering stunning views of the canyon at sunrise and sunset.
- Yavapai Point: A scenic viewpoint on the South Rim, offering panoramic views of the canyon and the Colorado River.
Day 5: Las Vegas, Nevada
Drive from the Grand Canyon to Las Vegas, Nevada (approximately 4.5 hours), and spend the day exploring the Strip, visiting iconic hotels like the Bellagio, Caesars Palace, and The Venetian.
Recommended Restaurants:
- Gordon Ramsay Hell's Kitchen: A celebrity-chef restaurant at Caesars Palace, serving up modern American cuisine.
- Eataly: A massive Italian market and restaurant complex at Park MGM, offering a wide range of pasta, pizza, and seafood dishes.
Day 6: San Francisco, California
Take a morning flight from Las Vegas to San Francisco, California (approximately 1.5 hours), and spend the day exploring Fisherman's Wharf, Alcatraz Island, and the iconic Golden Gate Bridge.
Must-see Attractions:
- Alcatraz Island: A former maximum-security prison turned national park, offering a glimpse into the lives of infamous inmates like Al Capone.
- Golden Gate Bridge: An iconic suspension bridge connecting San Francisco to Marin County, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
- Fisherman's Wharf: A bustling waterfront district, featuring seafood restaurants, street performers, and souvenir shops.
Day 7: Departure from San Francisco
Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or visiting any last-minute attractions before departing from San Francisco International Airport.