6-Day Luxury VIP Western USA Tour from Los Angeles【Max 14 Pax Small Group /w Coast Starlight Train】: Highway 1, Yosemite, MSG Sphere & Antelope Canyon

The California Highway 1 road trip is the most popular self-driving route in North America, without a doubt! Almost everyone who visits the U.S. has to take this iconic drive. Along this nearly 1,000-kilometer stretch of road, there are countless breathtaking spots, and without experience, many of these scenic views might be missed without even realizing it.

We'll begin our journey in the morning, greeted by the rising sun, and head to Union Station, the starting point of the most scenic stretch of the famous "Coast Starlight" train route. From Union Station to the Santa Barbara station lies the renowned "Coastline Train." The tracks perfectly follow the coast, with California's stunning, charming beaches right at your side. The ride lasts about 2.5 hours, passing through the famous Malibu, where you can enjoy the majestic views of the California coastline and experience the peace and comfort of a train journey. We will disembark at the Santa Barbara station to explore the unique sights and beauty of Santa Barbara, followed by lunch in the area. After lunch, we'll head to Hearst Castle to visit the luxurious estate of the former media mogul. Before wrapping up our tour, we'll stop by Point Piedras Blancas to see the sea lions. The day will end with an overnight stay at a seaside hotel.

• Amtrak Coast Starlight Train
The Amtrak Coast Starlight is a well-known long-distance train that runs along the West Coast of the U.S., connecting Seattle's King Street Station with Los Angeles' Union Station. The full journey takes over 35 hours, with the California stretch offering breathtaking views along Highway 1.
• Santa Barbara
Located 150 kilometers north of Los Angeles, Santa Barbara is nestled between the Santa Ynez Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. The city features charming Spanish and Mexican-style architecture, with red-roofed, white-walled buildings. In the hillside and coastal neighborhoods, houses are surrounded by lush lawns and gardens, giving Santa Barbara its well-deserved reputation as a "garden city." The area has long been a favorite for wealthy businesspeople, political figures, and celebrities. President John F. Kennedy honeymooned here in 1953; President Ronald Reagan's villa in the northwestern mountains hosted world leaders like Mikhail Gorbachev and Queen Elizabeth II between 1981 and 1989; and President Bill Clinton vacationed here shortly after his election in 1992. On weekends and holidays, tourists flock to Santa Barbara from Los Angeles and the nearby desert cities, driving along Highways 101 and 154.
• Hearst Castle
Hearst Castle, located on a 500-meter-high hill in San Simeon on California's central coast, offers stunning views of the coastline and the Pacific Ocean. The castle is a mix of Spanish, Mexican, European, and Mediterranean styles, but it truly embodies the spirit of America. The owner, media tycoon William Hearst, was inspired by European architecture during his childhood travels to Greece and Italy and influenced by the Mexican culture of California (which was once Mexican territory). Using his vast wealth, he created this lavish palace, a symbol of American luxury. At the age of 83, the Hearsts donated the estate to the U.S. government, giving visitors a chance to experience the grandeur of this private American mansion firsthand.
• Point Piedras Blancas
The beach at Point Piedras Blancas is a spectacular sight, often covered with elephant seals. Occasionally, younger seals can be seen playing and sparring in the water. While the Chinese name translates to "Walrus Beach," the correct name is "Elephant Seal Rookery." These large seals, distinguished by their large noses and massive bodies, started migrating here in the 1990s after nearly being hunted to extinction. Thanks to conservation efforts, their population has steadily grown.
Tour Duration:
Coast Starlight Train: 2.5 hours
Santa Barbara: 1 hour
Hearst Castle: 2 hours
Point Piedras Blancas: 0.5 hours
 

After breakfast, we will head to the breathtaking 90-mile Big Sur coastline to take in the magnificent natural scenery. We will then drive along the picturesque 17-Mile Drive. Our next stop will be the famous Monterey Bay and its aquarium, home to California sea otters and a variety of marine life. After lunch, we will make our way to Silicon Valley to visit the Apple and Google campuses, where you can learn more about these world-leading tech giants. In the evening, we will arrive in San Francisco, where you can explore Fisherman's Wharf and take iconic photos with the stunning Golden Gate Bridge. 
• 17-Mile Drive
The 17-Mile Drive is a scenic loop that circles the famous Pebble Beach Resort. The west and south sides of the drive run along the Pacific Ocean, while the east side passes through the Del Monte forest. Along the way, you'll see not only famous beaches but also luxurious villas and golf courses. A landmark of Pebble Beach, the Lone Cypress, stands near the beach. Many seabirds, sea lions, and seals also call this area home, with Bird Rock and Seal Rock being popular attractions.
• Monterey Bay
The Monterey Bay Aquarium, established in 1984, is ranked sixth in the world and second in the U.S. The aquarium is home to California sea otters and, more recently, seahorses. It also houses various tropical fish and marine life. The aquarium offers daily performances and feeding times, where visitors can watch the keepers interact with the animals and learn more about their environments and current conditions.
• Silicon Valley
Silicon Valley emerged in the mid-20th century as microelectronics technology rapidly developed. It is home to renowned research universities like Stanford University and the University of California, Berkeley. The region hosts thousands of high-tech companies, including industry giants like Cisco, Intel, HP, Apple, and Google. This tour will take you to visit the global headquarters of Apple and Google, two of the most influential companies in the world.
• Apple's Headquarters
Apple's headquarter, Located near the circular building is the Steve Jobs Theater, which hosts major events like product launches and can accommodate up to 1,000 people. The theater's exterior features a 20-foot-high glass curtain wall and a 165-foot diameter. The roof, made of carbon fiber, is the largest of its kind, weighing 80 tons and composed of 44 panels. The headquarters, with its ring-shaped building and large central courtyard, has been compared to a "landed spaceship" by Jobs and a "giant glass doughnut" by the media. The visitor center has four sections: an Apple Store, a café, an observation deck, and an augmented reality experience of the entire Apple Park campus.
• Google Headquarters
Google's headquarters, located in Mountain View, is a sprawling corporate campus. Visitors can see a variety of Google's high-tech products on display and even try some for themselves. The campus also offers free bicycles, which are painted in Google's signature colors. Visitors can take photos with Android robots scattered around the campus. The headquarters, called Googleplex, is situated near other tech hubs like the Mozilla Foundation and Microsoft's Silicon Valley Research Institute.
• San Francisco Fisherman's Wharf
Fisherman's Wharf is one of San Francisco's most famous landmarks. It stretches from Ghirardelli Square to Pier 35 and features bustling shops, restaurants, and street performances, particularly around Pier 39. From here, you can enjoy views of Alcatraz Island, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the Bay Bridge.
• Golden Gate Bridge
The Golden Gate Bridge is a world-famous symbol of San Francisco and one of the most iconic bridges in the world. Spanning the 1,900-meter Golden Gate Strait in California, the bridge was built over four years using more than 100,000 tons of steel at a cost of $35.5 million. Opened in 1937, the bridge is 2 kilometers long and has six lanes, making it one of the largest single-span suspension bridges in the world. The bridge's striking vermilion color contrasts beautifully with the blue sea and white waves, especially at night when the city lights illuminate it like a giant dragon soaring in the sky. During the California Gold Rush, the bridge served as the gateway to the goldfields, giving it the name "Golden Gate Bridge."
Tour Duration:
17-Mile Drive: 1.5 hours
Monterey Bay Aquarium: 1 hour
Apple: 0.5 hour
Google: 0.5 hour
Golden Gate Bridge: 0.5 hour
Fisherman's Wharf: 0.5 hour
 

Itinerary plan A: Hiking Exploration in Yosemite National Park
In the morning, we will depart from the hotel and drive to California's natural wonder, Yosemite National Park, enjoying scenic mountain views along the way. Upon arrival, we will explore the stunning landscapes of Yosemite Valley. After a day of adventure, we will head to a hotel near the park for dinner and relaxation.
Yosemite National Park
Yosemite National Park is located in the Sierra Nevada mountains of eastern California and is one of the most beautiful and frequently visited national parks in the western United States, comparable to Grand Canyon National Park and Yellowstone National Park. The park is centered around Yosemite Valley, through which the Merced River flows, and features several waterfalls, including the famous Yosemite Falls. The landscape is dotted with many majestic peaks, the most famous being El Capitan, a granite wall that rises 1,099 meters vertically from the valley floor, making it one of the highest uninterrupted cliffs in the world. The park's dramatic elevation changes, with mountains, canyons, rivers, and waterfalls constantly coming into view, create a spectacular and awe-inspiring natural scene.
Itinerary plan B: Napa Valley Winery Exploration and Wine Tasting Tour (This itinerary will be implemented in case of road closures in Yosemite National Park)
Napa Valley is one of the premier wine regions in the United States and has become synonymous with American wine culture. It is a symbol of elegance and sophistication in the New World wine industry. Located about 70 kilometers north of San Francisco, Napa Valley is approximately 30 miles long and covers 45,000 acres, filled with vineyards. With its natural advantages—mild climate year-round, plenty of sunlight, large temperature differences between day and night, minimal rainfall, and mineral-rich soil—Napa Valley is renowned for producing some of the finest wines. On this tour, we will visit two different wineries, experiencing their distinct cultures and architectural styles, and enjoy a wine tasting.
After the winery visits, we will head to Fresno for accommodation, which is about 1 hour away from tomorrow's destination.
Tour Duration:
Yosemite National Park: 3 hours
Napa Valley Wineries: 3 hours
 

After breakfast, we will depart from the hotel and begin a day of adventure. Our first stop is Kings Canyon National Park, where we will admire the spectacular canyon scenery and experience the power of nature. Next, we'll head to the adjacent Sequoia National Park to see one of the world's largest and oldest trees—the giant sequoia. The majestic sight of these towering trees will leave you in awe. Together, these parks form a natural wonder in inland California, offering the perfect setting to explore the beauty of nature. Afterward, we will drive to Los Angeles to visit the famous Hollywood Walk of Fame and experience the charm of this iconic movie city.
• Sequoia National Park
Sequoia National Park, located in the northwestern Pacific coastal region of California, USA, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1980. The park is home to the world's tallest trees, the giant sequoias, which can grow up to 350 feet tall. The park contains the largest remaining area of old-growth sequoia forests, covering more than 170 square kilometers of trees that are over 100 years old. Its proximity to the ocean creates a mild and humid climate, ideal for the growth of the redwoods. The park offers stunning and varied scenery, from tranquil forests and mountains to towering trees, providing an awe-inspiring visual experience.
• Kings Canyon National Park
Located in California, Kings Canyon National Park is renowned for its majestic canyons and diverse natural landscapes. With deep gorges, dense forests, and flowing rivers, it is a paradise for nature lovers. Visitors can enjoy hiking, camping, and scenic drives that showcase the breathtaking beauty of the canyon and the purity of nature.
• Hollywood Walk of Fame
If you're a fan of Hollywood movies, the Hollywood Walk of Fame is a must-visit destination in Los Angeles. This 2.1-kilometer-long sidewalk features over 2,000 star plaques honoring contributors to the entertainment industry, including notable Chinese stars like Jackie Chan and Bruce Lee.
Tour Duration:
Sequoia National Park: 2.5 hours
Kings Canyon National Park: 1.5 hours
Hollywood Walk of Fame: 0.5 hours
 

In the morning, we will depart from the beautiful city of Los Angeles, heading north along Highway 15. We'll pass through the San Bernardino National Forest and enter the Mojave Desert, the largest desert in North America. Along the way, you'll enjoy the unique scenery of the American West's desert landscape. We will make a stop at the Seven Magic Mountains, a colorful art installation also known as the "Seven Magic Rocks." After a brief stop, we'll continue driving for about an hour to reach the famous desert city of Las Vegas. We will show you the spectacular exterior of the new Sphere, one of the most talked-about and innovative architectural wonders in the world! You may also choose to join an optional Las Vegas night tour. We will stay overnight in Las Vegas.
• Seven Magic Mountains
This stunning man-made attraction is located about 20 miles south of Las Vegas and was designed by Swiss artist Ugo Rondinone. It features seven 30-35-foot-high stacks of brightly colored boulders sourced locally and painted with neon colors. The vibrant rocks stand out dramatically against the desert backdrop.
• Las Vegas Sphere (MSG Sphere)
Designed by the renowned architecture firm Populous, the Sphere is a futuristic mega-structure. It uses 31,351 square meters of fixed aluminum profiles and 2,647 square meters of pre-perforated aluminum. The structure also includes 4,900 conical and 1,075 pre-perforated panels, ensuring long-term durability. The panels are designed with a mottled gray finish to minimize LED light reflection.
Tour Duration:
Seven Magic Mountains: 0.5 hour
Las Vegas Sphere: 1 hour
Las Vegas Night Tour: 2-3 hours
 

Las Vegas is one of the world's four major gambling cities, known as a world-famous destination for tourism, shopping, and vacationing. It has earned the titles of "The Entertainment Capital of the World" and "The Marriage Capital of the World." Of the 38.9 million tourists who visit Las Vegas each year, the majority come for shopping and dining, while only a minority come specifically to gamble. Today, you will have the entire day free in Las Vegas, allowing you to forget the stresses of work and life and fully indulge in the entertainment and relaxation this city offers.
Visitors can choose from the following themed activities:
Option A: Grand Canyon West Rim & Skywalk tour with a visit to the Hoover Dam
In the morning, we will arrive at the West Rim of the Grand Canyon, where you can explore Eagle Point and Guano Point. You can also walk on the Skywalk (optional), offering unique perspectives to admire the sunlight reflecting off the canyon walls, creating stunning visual effects. Additionally, you may choose to take an optional helicopter ride and scenic boat tour to view the beauty of the Colorado River from above and below. Afterward, we will drive to Hoover Dam, the tallest dam in the Americas, to tour the dam's engineering marvel and power plant before returning to Las Vegas.
Tour Duration:
Grand Canyon: Approximately 2-3 hours
Option B: Antelope Canyon & Horseshoe Bend （Upper / Lower Antelope Canyon Optional）
In the morning, we will depart from Las Vegas and drive to Page City to visit Horseshoe Bend, one of National Geographic's top 10 photography locations in the United States. Afterward, we will visit the world-famous Antelope Canyon, one of the top 10 photography spots globally. We will enter the canyon with a Navajo guide. After the tour, we will return to Las Vegas.
• Antelope Canyon
Located in northern Arizona, Antelope Canyon was formed over millions of years by the erosion of soft sandstone by various forces, including flash floods during the monsoon season. The rapid surge of water, combined with the canyon's narrow passageways, causes significant vertical erosion, resulting in the corridors at the canyon's base and the smooth, flowing edges along its walls. Though it is a slot canyon, when you descend to the bottom, it feels like a magnificent natural palace. The canyon walls appear soft but are solid rock, with surfaces that seem carefully polished. When sunlight enters the serene canyon, the dance of light and shadow creates a mesmerizing spectacle.
• Horseshoe Bend
Named one of National Geographic's top seven photography spots in the U.S., Horseshoe Bend features the Colorado River, which glows a fluorescent green under the sunlight, winding in a 360-degree curve through the red-brown canyon. This meander creates a stunning horseshoe-shaped bend, giving the site its name. Standing on the cliff's edge, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking beauty of the blue sky, green water, and red rocks.
Tour Duration:
Antelope Canyon: Approximately 70 minutes
Horseshoe Bend: 1 hour
Special Notes:
1) Tripods and monopods are not allowed in Antelope Canyon.
2) Recommended items: camera, bottled water, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and a sunhat.
Option C: Grand Canyon Day Tour
The tour will depart from the vibrant city of Las Vegas and head to one of the world's natural wonders, the Grand Canyon National Park. Here, you will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking views of the Grand Canyon and experience its vastness and depth. Afterward, we will drive along Route 66 back to Las Vegas. The Grand Canyon Visitor Center is located at the South Rim and is a popular spot for visitors. It offers various facilities and information about the canyon, including films and a 3D topographical map.
• Grand Canyon National Park
Known as the greatest of the seven natural wonders of the world, the Grand Canyon is located in northern Arizona and covers 1,904 square miles. It was established in 1919 and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979. The Grand Canyon was carved by the Colorado River and is considered one of the must-see national parks in the U.S.
• South Rim – Main attraction: Mather Point
Tour Duration:
Grand Canyon: Approximately 2-3 hours
 
Option D: Bryce Canyon and Zion National Parks Day Tour
We will visit two of Utah's most stunning national parks: Bryce Canyon National Park and Zion National Park. Enjoy the natural beauty of these American national parks on a relaxing and scenic trip.
• Bryce Canyon National Park
Bryce Canyon is the smallest national park in the U.S., but it boasts a magnificent landscape of towering orange-red rock spires. These unique, neatly arranged yet distinct stone pillars form a massive "amphitheater," reminiscent of the Roman Colosseum.
• Zion National Park
Zion is Utah's oldest, most diverse, and most visited national park, covering 229 square miles (593 square kilometers). It features a stunning canyon with towering rock formations that soar into the sky. The narrow, deep canyon offers spectacular views from the valley floor and is perfect for hiking, wading, and rock climbing (some areas require professional licenses).
Tour Duration:
Bryce Canyon: 1 hour
Zion National Park: 1-2 hours
Option E: Death Valley National Park.
Death Valley National Park, located in the desert valley of California and along the California-Nevada state line, lies to the east of the Sierra Nevada mountains. It covers a total area of 3,000 square kilometers, which is one and a half times larger than the state of Delaware. Of this area, 550 square kilometers are below sea level. The park is about 224 kilometers from Las Vegas. Death Valley National Park is the largest national park in the continental United States and is known as the hottest and lowest point in North America. Death Valley has a very high rating and popularity on Google Reviews. As of 2019, it had over 17,000 reviews with an average rating of 4.7/5, placing it on par with the much-loved Grand Teton National Park.
Tour Duration:
Death Valley: 2 hours
Option F. Free time in Las Vegas.
The tour concludes. There are three drop-off locations in Las Vegas. If you have a departing flight the same evening, it is recommended to book a flight departing after 10:00 PM.