If you're looking for your next great adventure, consider taking your explorations across the Atlantic on the Grand Tour of the USA with Great Rail Journeys. This beloved coast-to-coast journey blends iconic cities, epic national parks and some of America's most scenic train journeys - all while exploring the unique features of each region along the way.
Experience the eclectic cities of San Francisco, Chicago and New York City, travel along the iconic Route 66, encounter the jaw-dropping Colorado Rockies, and witness the power of Niagara Falls on one unforgettable itinerary. And this is just a taste of what's to come.
I've travelled and worked across several stops on this tour and as such, I've compiled a practical, experience‑led guide to make the most of your free time in each city and park, with foodie finds, walking routes, viewpoints and 'can't-miss' moments that transform an excellent trip into an unforgettable one.
Arriving on America's West Coast in San Francisco
San Francisco, affectionately known as the 'City by the Bay', is the Grand Tour's Pacific gateway, complete with steep streets, sea breezes and neighbourhoods that reward slow exploration. On the included guided walking tour, you'll hit the city's signature sights but hidden between them are the extras that made my day.
Loud, crazy and endlessly entertaining, the sea lions are undisputedly the main event at Fisherman's Wharf and Pier 39; however, during my visit, I took my explorations indoors. Just steps from the waterfront, I found a small arcade museum where you can play old‑school games and enjoy a nostalgic stop that fits perfectly between wharf snacks and bay views.
Experiencing San Francisco's highlights
While this eclectic city is bound to put views and experiences you could not imagine on offer, here are some of the highlights you will see on your Grand Tour, or you can add on in your free time to make the most of your visit:
- Lombard Street - With its hairpin turns and flower-lined terraces in the backdrop, the 'crookedest street in the world' (which, fun fact, isn't even the crookedest in San Francisco!) is always a delight.
- Alcatraz Island - Book ahead for audio tours of the cellhouse and sweeping bay views of this former federal prison, infamous for both its location and its inmates. Golden
- Gate Bridge viewpoints - Soak up sweeping views of this rust-coloured structure from the Presidio or Battery Spencer, both of which provide postcard angles.
The natural side of the West: Yosemite & the Grand Canyon
The beauty of the United States is that the views are forever changing. One minute you are in a city whose skyline is known throughout the world, and the next, you are strolling through ancient trees, travelling amid vast deserts or looking into seemingly endless canyons, layered with the hues of the West. On this holiday, you get a taste of it all, putting America's iconic sights within reach.
Grand views and magnificent wildlife in Yosemite National Park
We took a breath of fresh air as we reached the first natural crescendo of our Grand Tour, Yosemite National Park. Located just over 160 miles east of San Francisco, this park is known for its sheer granite walls, plunging waterfalls and timeless forests that make you feel wonderfully small. For me, our time here was about the incredible views, spotting animals roaming in their natural habitats and simply getting lost in nature.
The enormity of the South Rim at the Grand Canyon
Standing by the South Rim, the Grand Canyon's sheer vastness hits you first. It is a horizon‑to‑horizon tear in the earth, and no photo can truly capture its spectrum of colours or light. On the Grand Tour, our experience is enhanced and beautiful views are revealed as we travel on the Grand Canyon Railway, an unforgettable vintage train experience that adds heritage and comfort to the journey to the rim.
Once you set foot on the magnificent South Rim, if you can, step away from the crowds at sunrise or sunset. The colours shift dramatically, and the silence between gusts of wind makes the scale feel even more profound.
Reliving the films that made 'Sin City' in Las Vegas
The neon detour, a city built on extremes and sensory overload: Las Vegas is like nowhere else in the United States. For me, making this stop on the Grand Tour was about reliving the films that made Vegas iconic, from slick heists and high‑roller glamour to wild bachelor parties and epic road trips.
Some of my top picks offer glimpses of Vegas, such as the Bellagio's fountains in Ocean's Eleven, the Las Vegas Strip in Casino and Rain Man, or the sweeping desert backdrop of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas. My personal favourite, though, Swingers, is all about the all-encompassing 'Vegas baby!' energy.
On my visit, I set out to recreate what are, for me, the most memorable scenes from Swingers. Whether that's a rooftop bar with Strip views, a classic casino floor at 2am or a show to remember, Las Vegas rewards bold decisions.
Across the US to Midwest
After crossing through the rugged West and travelling by train across the breathtaking Rocky Mountains of Colorado, the Grand Tour finds itself in the heart of the Midwest in Chicago. Our Great Rail Journeys family includes an office in the 'Windy City', and on a trip to visit in 2025, I maximised every free moment to soak up Chicago's culture, food and unique attractions.
One of my top recommendations is the acclaimed Architecture River Tour, and it is included as one of the highlights of our Grand Tour. These boat tours offer an amazing perspective of the city's legendary skyline, with knowledgeable guides explaining the stories behind notable structures like the Willis Tower and Tribune Tower as we drift.
Of course, you could also take in history and culture while visiting Chicago's world-class museums, such as the Field Museum, where I enjoyed learning about the Americas, and the Art Institute of Chicago - one of the oldest and most prestigious art museums in the United States.
Tastes of Chicago
I love food. To get the true flavour of the city, I joined the famed Chicago Food and City Tours, specifically the West Loop Food Tour (payable locally). Led by our passionate guide, David, we strolled through the foodie haven of the West Loop, sampling mouthwatering bites from up-and-coming restaurants and Chicago classics. Along the way, I discovered why Chicago's food scene is celebrated worldwide.
Highlights of the tour include Bonci Pizza (not Chicago-style, but Rome-inspired), where the blueberry and sausage pizza was incredible, and a visit to the Time Out Market for dumplings.
Other Must-Try Chicago Eats and Drinks:
- Chicago Dog at Dog House - A true Chicago-style hot dog 'dragged through the garden'.
- Robbert's Pizza - Their deep-dish pizza was voted the 6th best pizza in America in June 2025!
- Fire Cake Donuts & Ice Cream - Gourmet doughnuts, paired perfectly with local ice cream.
- Local Craft Beer - Sample some of the city's finest brews, including Anti-Hero IPA from Revolution Brewing and Neon Werewolf from Crushed by Giants - also home to incredible burgers.
Summer in the city
If you are lucky enough to visit Chicago in the summer, a celebratory atmosphere brings the city to life. One of the best places to absorb the excitement is Wrigley Field. During my visit, I was able to secure last-minute tickets to cheer on the Chicago Cubs as they faced the St Louis Cardinals. In addition to seeing the iconic stadium and tasting the classic ballpark eats, I was able to stroll around the charming residential area surrounding Wrigley and have a quick beer at Murphy's near the bleachers - an institution for any Cubs fan.
From Memorial Day weekend (end of May) until Labor Day weekend (beginning of September), Navy Pier is the place to be for quintessential summer scenes. In addition to its Ferris wheel, lively shops and restaurants, and stunning blue water views, every Wednesday at 9pm and Saturday at 10pm, you can enjoy a colourful fireworks show over Lake Michigan.
Ending the Grand Tour in the 'Big Apple'
I have been to New York City numerous times, and it never ceases to impress. The last time I visited was in August 2026, and going back was delving into the fast‑paced, layered and endlessly rewarding enigma that makes this city such a joy to uncover - if you know where to look.
Our Grand Tour includes a sightseeing tour of the most popular sights, including Central Park and Rockefeller Center, as well as a cruise of Manhattan Harbour. On my visit, I built a mini‑itinerary around elevated walks, neighbourhood character and, as you can guess by now, food.
I did a walking tour of Brooklyn and DUMBO (payable locally), meandering along streets lined with brownstones, passing waterfront parks and pausing at the iconic Manhattan Bridge photo spot. If you are a fan of the theatre, there is no better way to end a day of neighbourhood exploration than a Broadway show. For me, it was the immersive Stranger Things show.
Incredible views and flavours in Chelsea and the West Village
I also organised a food tour of Chelsea Market, located in New York City's Meatpacking district (payable locally). Pier 57, home to another beloved food market, is within walking distance if you have extra time. Some of the highlights of my explorations included:
- Filaga Pizza Margarita - This crisp, Roman‑style slice punches above its weight with quality ingredients.
- Takumi Taco Japanese Curry Beef - Completely unlike everything else at the market, this rich, umami‑forward dish was truly memorable.
- The views from Pier 52 - Head to the lift three-quarters down the pier, and press the top button for an incredible alternative view of the city - one lesser-seen but never forgotten vista.
After my tour, I walked the High Line, the elevated park winding through Chelsea and the West Village, built on a former railway track. Take in beautiful urban views at every angle and enjoy the ambience of this area at your own pace - whether this is your destination or merely a stop along the way, as it was for me.
From here, I made an impromptu trip up to The Edge, and it was absolutely worth it. From 100 storeys above the Hudson Yards, you can marvel at 360° views of Manhattan, the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center and the Hudson River in one sweeping panorama.
A true American adventure
The Grand Tour of America is a brilliant overview of a nation where grand cities meet iconic landmarks and some of the world's most beloved national parklands. While many of its destinations top my list of favourite destinations, this holiday has so much more on offer that makes it the trip of a lifetime.
- Experience the roaring waters of the Hoover Dam.
- Journey aboard the legendary California Zephyr, one of America's most scenic trains.
- Ride on the historic Durango and Silverton Railroad in Colorado, traversing dramatic landscapes and historic boomtowns of the San Juan Mountains.
- Stand in awe of the sheer power of Niagara Falls and travel into the mist on a boat ride to the base of the falls.
Whether you're a first-time traveller to the US or ready to rediscover the sense of adventure the states bring, let Great Rail Journeys lead the way.
