Grand Southern – USA Tour for Young Adults & Young Solo Travellers

Grand Southern Tours for Young Adults

The one that’s the ultimate American road trip, including the Grand Canyon, Vegas, Miami & New Orleans

Travel through the USA doesn’t get any grander than this. This sprawling adventure takes you from the glitz of Vegas through the gob-smacking Grand Canyon, the smooth jazz and intoxicating charm of New Orleans to the sun-soaked party scene of Miami. Welcome to the Great American Road Trip – the open road has never felt so good.

“70 percent join our trips solo”

“70% of our travellers join our trips solo, so you’ll travel with like-minded young people who want to make friends, experience new things and create lifelong memories. This is the best way to turn solo travel into the most social travel imaginable.” (Cited from the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults. For the latest info and eventual changes see here)

“Most popular youth travel company in the world”

Info by the very experienced and internationally popular operator of this tour for young adults (“Most popular youth travel company in the world”, Wikipedia): “Our trips are exclusively for 18-35s, and whether you join us solo or in a group, our trips are designed so you can share incredible experiences with young travellers just like you.”

Reviews by tour participants:

4.5 out of 5 stars (171 Reviews)* (all reviews and the latest rating available on the details page

Target age group:

18 to 35 (35 to 45 at “Reunion Trips“)

Trip duration and price:

21 days, 1 country from about $ 4411* (final prices – also in other currencies like British £ or € – available on the booking page)

Destinations:

North America > USA

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Planned Itinerary:

Day 1: Los Angeles

Day 2: Los Angeles

Day 3: Los Angeles

Las Vegas

Day 4: Las Vegas

Day 5: Las Vegas

Seligman (AZ)

Grand Canyon

Day 6: Grand Canyon

Day 7: Grand Canyon

Monument Valley

Durango

Day 8: Durango

Santa Fe

Day 9: Santa Fe

Amarillo

Day 10: Amarillo

Fort Worth

Day 11: Fort Worth

Day 12: Fort Worth

Memphis

Day 13: Memphis

Day 14: Memphis

New Orleans

Day 15: New Orleans

Day 16: New Orleans

Panama City Beach

Day 17: Panama City Beach

Orlando

Day 18: Orlando

Day 19: Orlando

Miami

Day 20: Miami

Day 21: Miami

Day 1: Start Los Angeles

Los Angeles
Welcome to LA, home to celeb-swamped suburbs, blistering beaches, open-air gyms and of course, all things Hollywood. We’ll start our West Coast adventure with a visit to Beverly Hills, plus Venice Beach and a wander around Santa Monica. Does it get more star-studded than this? We think not.

Kawada Hotel (or similar)

Included Meals:

DinnerIncluded ExperienceLive it up in Beverly HillsThis needs no introduction. See the palm-lined playground of the rich and famous with 30 of your new BFFs. Included Experience Hit up Sunset StripFollow the lead of music icons through the decades and hang out on this infamous stretch of Sunset Boulevard.Included ExperienceDo the Walk of FamePhoto op! Ramble around the iconic pink stars and hunt down your favourite celebs. Included Experience Hang out at Venice BeachA trip to Cali isn’t complete without seeing this boho beach town. Complete with its famous skate plaza and bodybuilders. Included Experience Get to know Santa MonicaSoak up those cool Cali vibes with your new Contiki fam. Explore the iconic pier and array of boutiques, bars and eateries.

Day 2: Los Angeles

Los Angeles
Today is yours to explore. You can opt to visit Disneyland, see what’s popping at the LA Live entertainment venue, or do some shopping at the garment district. There’s also the Grammy Museum and downtown LA food tour – helping the foodies taste all of the wonders of this true multicultural food Mecca.

Kawada Hotel (or similar)Day 3: Los Angeles to Las Vegas

Los AngelesWe’ll kick things off today in the famed City of Angels, where we’ll set off through the Mojave Desert, marveling at the majestic Joshua Trees, before reaching the one and only Las Vegas.Las VegasOn arrival we’ll cruise the iconic strip & check out the Vegas sign. Tonight, choose to hang out around Fremont Street or opt for a VIP nightclub experience for the kind of glitzy night out that only Vegas can provide.

Tropicana Hotel (or similar)

Included Meals:

DinnerIncluded ExperienceCheck out the Las Vegas stripWhere else would you find the Eiffel Tower and a Sphinx on the same street? See all the weird and wonderful Vegas highlights. Included ExperienceWitness the Famous Fremont Street Light Show Just when you thought Vegas couldn’t get any crazier, this nightly light show comes along and proves you wrong. Intense! Do Vegas nightlife like a VIPGet exclusive access to Las Vegas’ hottest nightclubs. Please note: Price is per night.
All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Visit the Graceland Wedding ChapelSee the the oldest and first Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas to hold a Elvis themed ceremony. All prices are in local currency.Additional costs apply

Day 4: Las Vegas

Las Vegas
You’re in Vegas, baby! And the city’s weird & wonderful charm isn’t going to uncover itself. Experience the grandeur of the city’s opulent casinos as we stroll down the strip and dance the night away, this is the perfect way to bond with your Contiki family, Vegas style.

Tropicana Hotel (or similar)Experience the Vegas High RollerTake a spin on the High Roller in Las Vegas. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Day 5: Las Vegas to The Grand Canyon

Las VegasToday we’ll leave the glittering lights of Vegas behind for something even more jaw-dropping.

Seligman (AZ)Cruising the historic route 66, we’ll stop for some photo ops before reaching the Grand Canyon National Park (entrance included, naturally).Grand CanyonWe’ve arrived at another one of our jaw-dropping highlights of this trip… The Grand Canyon! We’ll drop our bags off at the Red Feather Lodge and get a good night’s sleep. Better be well-rested to welcome the awe-inspiring adventure that awaits us!

Red Feather Lodge (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceEnjoy Panoramic Views of the Grand CanyonDon’t just believe the hype. See it IRL. Tick this incredible natural wonder of the world off your bucket list.

Day 6: The Grand Canyon

Grand Canyon
Today we’ll have a free day to spend in the Grand Canyon National Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site). We’ll hike (and bike) through the exposed rock, feel our spines tingle on a unique helicopter ride(!), and then gather in the evening to watch one of the world’s most mesmerising sunsets.

Red Feather Lodge (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Explore the Grand Canyon on Two WheelsTour the Grand Canyon rim on two wheels. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

See the Grand Canyon from a HelicopterSee the Grand Canyon’s north, south and east rims from above on a helicopter flight. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

See the North Canyon from a HelicopterSee the Grand Canyon from above on a helicopter flight. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Day 7: Grand Canyon to Durango

Grand CanyonWith the beauty of the Grand Canyon imprinted on our brains forever, we’ll journey past some Wild Western landscapes towards…

Monument ValleyThis monumental place has an iconic cluster of sandstone buttes, and we’ll get a chance to visit the Monument Valley Tribal park as we wind our way through the Rocky MountainsDurangoWe’ve arrived in our home for the evening, Colorado’s adventure capital: Durango

Days Inn by Wyndham (or similar)

Included Meals:

DinnerIncluded ExperiencePose at Monument Valley Tribal Park You’ll instantly recognise the red landscape from the movies. Plus, you’ll get a glimpse into the Native American way of life.

Day 8: Durango to Santa Fe

DurangoThe great outdoors is a way of life in Durango with adrenaline pumping river rafting on offer to you and your fellow thrill seekers. This afternoon it’s a total change of scenery when we enter New Mexico, where sun-baked earthen brick buildings stand out against the bright blue sky.Santa FeBoasting influences from Mexico, Spain, and Native American cultures, historic Santa Fe is a true melting pot of culture. Take a walk around town to see interesting styles of architecture, shop for beautiful turquoise jewellery in the market and sample all of the different types of regional food on offer.

The Lodge at Santa Fe (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Go White Water Rafting (Seasonal) Get swept along on a Durango Rafting adventure.
All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Ride in a Jeep (Seasonal) If it’s the right time of year, we’ll get the adrenaline pumping with a tour of Durango from the safety and comfort of a 4×4.
Additional costs apply

Day 9: Santa Fe to Amarillo

Santa FeRise and shine! Does anyone know the way to Amarillo? We’re headed to this larger than life city this morning.AmarilloIn true Americana Style, we’ll visit Cadillac Ranch – a unique art exhibit celebrating the golden age of Cadillacs. Tonight’s accommodation even has a Texas-shaped pool and a hotel for your horse (you know, just in case you need it). Tonight, you can try the ‘Big Texan Steak Challenge’ for a true ‘Man vs Food’ moment. Eternal glory awaits anyone who can finish this Texas-sized meal in one hour or less.

Big Texan Inn (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceMarvel at Cadillac RanchA rainbow-coloured art installation. Made from Cadillacs in the desert. That glows in the dark. Why the heck not?

Day 10: Amarillo to Fort Worth

AmarilloWe’ll say farewell to Amarillo and sweet Marie today as we head towards a Texan icon.Fort WorthHere in the land of leather boots & Cadillacs, you’ll soon learn that ‘bigger is better’ is a way of life. An overnight stay in the cowboy town of Fort Worth will give you the full Texan experience.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Worth Downtown (or Similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceVisit Fort Worth StockyardsAlways wanted to know what it was like to live in the Wild West? Welcome to cowboy town. Included ExperienceTuck into a Traditional Southern BBQOur trip to the Fort Worth stockyards just took a turn for the tasty, with a delicious BBQ dinner coming our way this evening.

Day 11: Dallas/Fort Worth

Fort Worth
Today we’ll dive deep into the Texan way of life. We’ll see a cattle drive, visit the Dealey Plaza and have the option to see the 6th floor museum.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Fort Worth Downtown (or Similar)Day 12: Dallas/Fort Worth to Memphis

Fort WorthSwinging past Little Rock High School, a historic site of the Civil Rights movement, we’ll head to a place with a big rock ‘n roll heritage.MemphisWe’ll get a city orientation of musical Memphis this afternoon, with a whole day of sightseeing awaiting us tomorrow.

Crowne Plaza Memphis Downtown (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceExperience the Beale Street BluesThis iconic block of clubs and restaurants is a melting pot of blues, jazz, R&B, rock and gospel. And every muso’s dream.

Day 13: Memphis

Memphis
Today’s the day to get into the history of music your way. We’ll start with a visit to Sun Studios where Elvis recorded his very first song. Want more? Why not check out Graceland, the home of the King, or the Rock and Soul Museum.

Crowne Plaza Memphis Downtown (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included ExperienceVisit the Legendary Sun StudiosVisit the birthplace of rock ’n’ roll. Where Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash recorded their major records.Visit the Rock & Soul MuseumTake a tour through music history at the Rock & Soul Museum, Memphis.
All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Visit the Home of Elvis PresleyVisit the home of The King – Graceland. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Day 14: Memphis to New Orleans

MemphisWe’ll say farewell to Memphis today as we head to somewhere with a meaty musical heritage of its own.New OrleansAfter some free time to explore this hearteningly soulful city, we’ll turn up the volume and hit Bourbon Street to sample the live music and lively bar culture. This evening, venture out for a New Orleans dinner, to taste all the melting pot of flavours this fascinating place has to offer.

La Quinta Inn and Suites New Orleans Downtown (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceDiscover New Orleans on Foot Get to know New Orleans on foot, with an orientation tour including the French Quarter – and the chance to sample the doughy and delightful New Orleans beignets.
Included ExperienceTry the Famous BeignetsSample the delicious doughy goodness that is a staple of the city’s food culture.

Day 15: New Orleans

New Orleans
Now that you know New Orleans like one of the locals, it’s your day to do your own thing. Stroll down Frenchmen street for the sounds of jazz and funk, head to the vast grassy oasis of the city park or check out the New Orleans museum of art for an extensive collection of gorgeous French masterpieces. Our recommendation? Head to the SoFAB – Southern Food & Beverage Museum for some classic gumbo, or experience your own Airboat adventure.

La Quinta Inn and Suites New Orleans Downtown (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Ride on an AirboatGet out on the bayou the only way that matters, on an Airboat! All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Day 16: New Orleans to Panama City Beach

New OrleansLeaving New Orleans won’t be easy, but knowing we’re bound for one of the “world’s most beautiful beaches” helps.Panama City BeachThere’s only one way to test the rumours, so we’ll take a dip in the crystal clear waters and kick back on the pure white sands of Panama City Beach.

Baymont by Wyndham Panama City Beach (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Day 17: Panama City Beach to Orlando

Panama City BeachTear yourself away from the beach, there are exciting times ahead!OrlandoWe arrive in Orlando today with a trip to Universal Studios on the cards. We hope you budgeted for butterbeer.

Baymont by Wyndham Universal Blvd (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Day 18: Orlando

Orlando
Today is your opportunity to visit the epic Universal Studios, where you can visit Diagon Alley, splash around in the vast water park or visit the islands of adventure. There’s something for everyone in this dizzying spectacle of rides, film and entertainment.

Baymont by Wyndham Universal Blvd (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Included ExperienceAmusement Park Transfers Included – One WayCan you handle this level of excitement? All of your childhood dreams are about to come true…

Day 19: Orlando To Miami

OrlandoWe’ll venture south to glamorous Miami today.MiamiA little mouthwatering Cuban cuisine will get us in the mood with a delicious regional group deal setting the scene for two full days of art deco & celeb-spotting in this tropical paradise. For anyone looking for an adrenaline rush, the option is there for a Thriller Speedboat across the bay.

Catalina Hotel (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Dinner

Included Experience Do dinner: Cuban styleMojitos all round! It’s time to relax with your new buddies and sample some sizzling Cuban fare.Take a Miami Speedboat RideWe love getting out on the water in Miami – it takes us back to the days of Miami Vice! You can experience it too, with a different angle on this legendary city on this 45 min jetboat ride around the harbour (in the fastest boat in South Florida, no less). Frame up some shots as you head past all the sights, like Biscayne Bay, Key Biscayne, the Coconut Grove, Star Island & Fisher Island for the best views of the Miami coastline.
All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Day 20: Miami

MiamiIt’s time for some magical Miami sightseeing today. We’ll head downtown and of course the South Beach. Options for a bike down the beach, a clearwater kayaking float, or party in the city where the heat is on.

Catalina Hotel (or similar)

Included Meals:

Breakfast

Explore South Beach by BikeBike through all that Miami has to offer; Architecture, history, culture, beach life, and good times. All prices are in local currency.
Additional costs apply

Clearwater KayakingReady to do some kayaking under the Miami heat? Step into one of the clear kayaks and paddle as you can see the water below you. Magical feeling guaranteed!
Additional costs apply

Day 21: End Miami

Miami
Time to say goodbye to your crew. It’s been a blast, but all good things must come to an end. With our sun-kissed skin and eyes on the next horizon, it’s time to plan our next Contiki. Peru, anyone?

Included Meals:

Breakfast

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details & booking page

Some of the Highlights:

Included Experience
Live it up in Beverly Hills

This needs no introduction. See the palm-lined playground of the rich and famous with 30 of your new BFFs.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Enjoy Panoramic Views of the Grand Canyon

Don’t just believe the hype. See it IRL. Tick this incredible natural wonder of the world off your bucket list.

INCLUDED

Included Experience
Discover New Orleans on Foot

Get to know New Orleans on foot, with an orientation tour including the French Quarter – and the chance to sample the doughy and delightful New Orleans beignets.

INCLUDED

Visit the Graceland Wedding Chapel

See the the oldest and first Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas to hold a Elvis themed ceremony. All prices are in local currency.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Go White Water Rafting (Seasonal)

Get swept along on a Durango Rafting adventure. All prices are in local currency.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Visit the Rock & Soul Museum

Take a tour through music history at the Rock & Soul Museum, Memphis. All prices are in local currency.

ADDITIONAL COST APPLIED

Trip Highlights

The must do experiences that you can cross off your bucket list

You’ll find all highlights and eventual changes on the details page

FAQs:

You’ll find all FAQs and the latest info on the details page

Included Meals:

15 Breakfasts, 7 Dinners

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Team:

Expert Trip Manager & Driver Team

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Group Size:

Maximum 54 people

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

Transfers:

Coach

You’ll find all details and eventual changes on the details page

More Details:

You’ll find all details and the latest updates on the details & booking page

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(Partially) travel with a nice group or entirely travel solo?

By booking an organized USA tour for young adults or other North America trips for young people you can not only reduce planning hassle, but often also save money, as tour operators can buy accommodations, transportation, etc. in larger contingents in advance and thus get special conditions. You will also benefit from the experience of the tour operator, professional tour guides (whose stories you can enjoy…) and have the easy opportunity to meet nice fellow travelers when traveling in a group. Anyone who has traveled before will know that travel companions or other traveling acquaintances are one of the most essential factors for unforgettable experiences. In addition, you usually have enough individual freedom even with organized tours and you can, if the arrival and departure is not included, additionally extend your stay individually before or after the group tour with young adults. If you still prefer to organize your trip completely on your own and travel independently, then you’ll find all the practical tools you need to plan and book quickly & cheaply on our individual travel page.