Compare Highlights of Route 66 by Cosmos vs Wonders of the American West by Insight Vacations

Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.

Trip	Highlights of Route 66 by Cosmos 4 \| Great 3 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip Customize	Wonders of the American West by Insight Vacations 5 \| Excellent 12819 Reviews Trip Details Save Trip Reserve

Duration	16 days	11 days
Price From	$ 3,099	$ 4,395
Price Per Day	$ 194	$ 400
Highlights		Choose between two carefully selected activities Grand Canyon National Park: Join your Local Expert, Canyon Tim, for an informative talk about the wonders of the Grand Canyon. With over seven years of experience in geology, you'll learn about the origins of the five-million-year-old canyon, its rock formation and its current impact. You'll also discover the local flora and fauna, and find out where you might be able to spot elk, mule deer, coyotes, grey foxes, bobcats and mountain lions. Grand Canyon: Join your Travel Director for a relaxed hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon from Mather Point to Yavapai Point. 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometres) roundtrip, this scenic hike will provide spectacular views of the canyon's unique geology. : Enjoy the comfort of Insight's luxurious, air-conditioned, 40-seat coach with double the standard legroom and onboard washroom. Our customized luxury coaches are sanitized before the start of your tour and are maintained to very high standards. Physical distancing measures have been implemented on our customized luxury coaches. : Experience enhanced hygiene protocols to align with the latest guidance following COVID-19. All Travel Directors, Well-Being Directors and Drivers have completed training in enhanced well-being and hygiene protocols. : Our Well-Being Directors take a proactive approach to your welfare ensuring all well-being regulations are met (available on tours with 21 or more guests). : Hand sanitizer is freely available on board for you to use throughout the day. : We only work with establishments we are confident will consistently adhere to our high well-being standards, which include hotels, restaurants and sight-seeing venues. Monument Valley: Take a journey through Monument Valley Navajo Tribal park, meeting Navajo Local Experts on a guided journey across tribal land. Learn about Navajo history, culture and heritage, plus the careful balance maintained here between the tribes and the land. : "It’s magical to see how a group of guests come together over the course of our trip. I can always tell when that’s happening because they start planning their own ‘post-arrival’ activities before the travel day has finished." Las Vegas: At 18:00, join your Travel Director and companions for a Welcome Dinner with wine at the Bacchanal Buffet, with an award-winning spread that spans over 25,000 square feet where you can indulge on flavors from around the globe. Moab: Enjoy a Dine-Around evening as you choose from a hand-picked selection of mouthwatering restaurants. Bryce Canyon National Park: Get together with your new friends for a memorable Celebration Dinner within the park's beautiful surroundings. Dining Summary: 5 Dinner with Wine (DW), 9 Breakfast (B), and 1 Lunch (L) Grand Canyon National Park: Join your Local Expert, Canyon Tim, for an informative talk about the wonders of the Grand Canyon. With over seven years of experience in geology, you'll learn about the origins of the five-million-year-old canyon, its rock formation and its current impact. You'll also discover the local flora and fauna, and find out where you might be able to spot elk, mule deer, coyotes, grey foxes, bobcats and mountain lions. Glen Canyon Dam: Later today, you’ll stop by the Glen Canyon Dam where you’ll learn about its history and impact on the Colorado River. Mesa Verde National Park: Make your way to Mesa Verde National Park, See the ancient pueblo cliff dwellings, known as the Cliff Palace. As the day draws to a close, your lodge awaits you inside the park. Be in awe of the sweeping vistas that surround and reach into three states. Monument Valley: Meet your Navajo Local Experts and board all-terrain vehicles (waiver required) with open sides for a private, off-the-beaten path exploration of this magical valley. Learn about Navajo history, culture and heritage from your expert as you travel deeper in the natural wonders of this unique landscape. Mesa Verde National Park: See the ancient pueblo cliff dwellings, known as the Cliff Palace. Arches National Park: Enjoy views of the natural formations, including the iconic Delicate Arch. Canyonlands National Park: Venture to Canyonlands National Park for a drive onto the Island in the Sky - a mesa resting 1,000 feet (305 metres) above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views over the dramatic sandstone formations. Capitol Reef National Park: Join your Travel Director to see the natural sights along Capitol Reef's Waterpocket Fold, known as “a geological wrinkle on earth”. The geologic monocline extends almost 100 miles and is filled with cliffs, canyons, domes and bridges. Admire petroglyphs and the domed shaped sandstone walls along the canyon. Bryce Canyon National Park: Head to the sandstone cliffs of Bryce Canyon National Park in Southern Utah. Here you will be met by pine trees and red rock pillars. Take a leisurely walk along Sunset Point while you view the great amphitheatres of the odd-shaped monoliths, known as hoodoos. Bryce Canyon National Park: The Park is home to the most spectacular collection of hoodoos - tall skinny shafts of rock that protrude from the bottom of arid basins. While hoodoos are scattered throughout these areas, they are most abundant in the northern section of Bryce Canyon National Park. Zion National Park: See the grandeur and natural features of the canyon in total comfort while traveling via private open-air tram with live on-board commentary. Grand Canyon: Join your Travel Director for a relaxed hike along the rim of the Grand Canyon from Mather Point to Yavapai Point. 1.4 miles (2.25 kilometres) roundtrip, this scenic hike will provide spectacular views of the canyon's unique geology. Monument Valley: Experience true authentic dining as you explore Monument Valley with a traditional Navajo cookout. Prepared by Navajo women in their tribal lands, this experience demonstrates their culture and supports the community. Dine on delicious steak and tasty Navajo Tacos, or try the or veggie option, all served with fried bread, corn on the cob and beans.
Trip Style	Group tour	Group tour
Lodging Level	Standard	Premium
Physical Level	5- Extreme	0- Wheelchair accessible
Travel Themes	Cultural 50 plus	Cultural 50 plus
Countries Visited	United States	United States
Cities and Attractions	Albuquerque Arizona Bryce Canyon National Park California Chicago Lake Powell Las Vegas Los Angeles Monument Valley St. Louis Texas Utah Zion National Park	Bryce Canyon National Park Grand Canyon Lake Powell Las Vegas Mesa Verde Monument Valley
Flights & Transport	No	Airfare included
Activities	Culture	Culture
Meals Included	N/A	N/A
Description	Follow legendary Route 66 and see how Americans traveled from the 1920s through the 1960s. This historic route begins in Chicago, travels through eight states, and ends in Los Angeles. On this trip down memory lane, you’ll get the opportunity to travel to the major cities along Route 66, visit many of the Route 66 museums, and step back in time to when the journey was part of the fun. Visit Pontiac’s Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum, which features memorabilia from the heyday of Route 66. In Oklahoma, at the National Route 66 Museum in Elk City, antique cars and historic documents help you feel what it was like to travel Route 66. In New Mexico, visit Russell’s Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia. Overnight in Williams Arizona—listed in the National Register for Historic Places and where you’ll see neon signs of the intact circa 1940s “Motel Row.” Before arriving at the end of Route 66 in Santa Monica, California, visit the California Route 66 Museum in Victorville, which displays memories in such settings as a 50’s diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford. This tour also deviates from Route 66, so you can see breathtaking scenery at the Grand Canyon and experience the excitement of Las Vegas. In Springfield, visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum, and in St. Louis, witness amazing views of the city and the Mississippi River from the top of the 630-foot-tall Gateway Arch. These are just some of the many highlights of this Route 66 tour designed for value-minded travelers. Sit back, relax, and let Cosmos handle the driving and details while you enjoy!	See the best of the American West on this 10-Day guided tour. Join a Local Expert at Grand Canyon National Park for a one-of-a-kind experience: Allow the expert to guide you through the park while teaching you about how this national treasure was formed. On the way to picturesque Lake Powell, stop at the Glen Canyon Dam, then lounge at the pool of your hotel. In Page, enjoy a Navajo inspired taco buffet dinner and performance. Meet a Navajo guide in Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where you will board ATVs, explore the valley and learn about the tribe’s history. Later, eat a traditional Navajo lunch amid the valley’s beautiful buttes and mesas. In Moab, see the ancient pueblo dwellings in Mesa Verde National Park, where the Ancestral Pueblo people once lived. Travel to Bryce Canyon National Park to explore its rock pillars and natural amphitheaters — then feast with your fellow travelers overlooking the park’s iconic orange rock formations.

Itinerary: Highlights of Route 66

Day 1: CHICAGO

Welcome to Chicago, the start of Route 66! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer questions.

Day 2: CHICAGO

Known as the “Windy City,” Chicago is home to one of America’s tallest buildings, legends such as Al Capone and his notorious gang, and countless jazz and blues clubs. Get to know this exciting city on a morning sightseeing tour that includes seeing the sign marking the start of historic Route 66. This afternoon is at leisure. Ride the elevator to the top of the Willis Tower, formally known as the Sears Tower, explore The Magnificent Mile, or stroll along Navy Pier. (CBreakfast)

Day 3: CHICAGO–PONTIAC–SPRINGFIELD

This morning, immerse yourself in Route 66 memorabilia. Visit the Route 66 Hall of Fame & Museum in Pontiac, housed in a historic fire station. See the large maps that will sketch out your Route 66 adventure for the coming days and enjoy the nostalgic photos and postcards from the “Mother Road’s” heyday. On to Springfield, the capital of Illinois, where we will visit the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Museum. (CBreakfast)

Day 4: SPRINGFIELD–ST. LOUIS

Cross the mighty Mississippi River and continue to St. Louis, “Gateway to the West.” Your orientation tour includes the towering Gateway Arch National Park. Ascend to the top of the 630-foot-tall arch for a panoramic view of the city and river. Then drive along an original stretch of Route 66 and get the chance to savor some of Ted Drewes Frozen Custard.

Day 5: ST. LOUIS–JOPLIN

Today, we travel through the Missouri countryside, exploring interesting quaint towns and quirky roadside attractions along Route 66. Overnight in Joplin, a town where infamous robbers Bonnie and Clyde once sought refuge. (Breakfast)

Day 6: JOPLIN–TULSA–OKLAHOMA CITY

After a quick drive through Kansas, enter Oklahoma, once known as Indian Territory and home to the Cherokee Nation. In Tulsa, see the “East Meets West” sculpture that pays tribute to Cyrus Avery, “The Father of Route 66.” Later today, arrive in Oklahoma City. (Breakfast)

Day 7: OKLAHOMA CITY–ELK CITY–AMARILLO

Start the day with a city sightseeing tour of Oklahoma City, the capital and largest city in Oklahoma. From here, travel to Elk City and visit the National Route 66 Museum for a journey through each of the eight states through which iconic Route 66 passes through. Continue into the Texas Panhandle en route to Amarillo, the Yellow Rose of Texas. (Breakfast)

Day 8: AMARILLO–TUCUMCARI–ALBUQUERQUE

On the way out of Amarillo, stop at Cadillac Ranch, a quirky art sculpture consisting of a collection of 10 Cadillacs. Before crossing into New Mexico, reach Adrian, the halfway point on Route 66. Across the New Mexico border, visit Russell’s Car Museum, featuring classic cars and memorabilia. Next, stop in Tucumcari and shop for souvenirs at Teepee Curios. See the iconic Blue Swallow Motel that has been serving travelers of Route 66 since 1939, along with many original signs from the town’s heyday. Visit Central Avenue in Albuquerque, where many of the original Route 66 buildings and businesses still stand. Afterward, there’s free time to enjoy this old town with its fine parish church and Spanish-style plaza. (CBreakfast)

Day 9: ALBUQUERQUE

This morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast or sunbathe in the New Mexico sunshine. Consider an optional Albuquerque Trolley ride or a short walk to Old Town, site of the city’s original settlement. Or visit one of the city’s fine museums, like the New Mexico Museum of Natural History, Albuquerque Museum, or the Indian Pueblo Cultural Center.

Day 10: ALBUQUERQUE–GALLUP–WINSLOW–WILLIAMS

Depart Albuquerque and cross the Continental Divide continuing to Gallup, sometimes called the “Indian Capital of the World.” It is the homeland of Navajo, Hopi, Zuni, and many other tribes who comprise a large percentage of the population. Then we’ll be “Standing on the Corner of Winslow, Arizona”, the sleepy Route 66 town made famous by The Eagles in their hit song “Take It Easy”. The next two nights are in Williams, gateway to the Grand Canyon, and listed in the National Register for Historic Places. The Historic Downtown District covers six square blocks and boasts a rich heritage that features the Old West and Route 66.

Day 11: WILLIAMS. EXCURSION TO GRAND CANYON NATIONAL PARK

Deviate from Route 66 to see one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Grand Canyon National Park. Wander along the canyon rim for breathtaking views and wildlife with a chance to spot elk grazing in the forested areas on the South Rim. For an unforgettable experience, consider an optional helicopter flightseeing tour for an unforgettable bird’s eye view of the canyon. Return to Williams where the evening is free to explore the historic Americana-style shops and restaurants dating back to the early 1900s. Be sure to take note of the neon signs of the preserved circa 1940s “Motel Row.” (CBreakfast)

Day 12: WILLIAMS–SELIGMAN–LAS VEGAS

Depart Williams for Seligman, home to the rebirth of Route 66. Detour once again from Route 66 to visit the bright lights of Las Vegas. An orientation tour upon arrival shows off many of the themed casino resorts along the glittering “Strip.” This evening, join an optional night on the town featuring an extravagant dinner followed by a dazzling live show featuring top Vegas entertainment. (CBreakfast)

Day 13: LAS VEGAS

A day at leisure to relax by the pool or explore the legendary Las Vegas Strip. Ride the world’s highest rollercoaster, float through a Venetian canal, or test your luck at one of the many world-famous casinos—it’s all possible in Las Vegas! Don’t miss downtown Las Vegas, where you’ll find the Fremont Street Experience, five city blocks enclosed in a glass atrium and filled with dazzling lights, sounds, and action. A variety of optional excursions are available, including a float trip through dramatic Black Canyon on the Colorado River.

Day 14: LAS VEGAS–VICTORVILLE–LOS ANGELES

Today, depart the man-made oasis of Las Vegas, and cross the natural beauty of Mojave Desert and the San Bernardino Mountains en route to Los Angeles. Visit the California Route 66 Museum, to see its nostalgic 50’s diner, VW Love Bus and the 1917 Model T Ford exhibits. Overnight in Los Angeles, where you’ll visit Santa Monica, the ending point of Route 66.

Day 15: LOS ANGELES

Explore the exciting “City of Angels” with a morning tour of legendary Beverly Hills, Sunset Strip, and Hollywood, where you’ll walk along the stars on Hollywood Boulevard, and get a photo of the iconic Hollywood sign. Consider an optional Warner Brothers Studio tour, shop for souvenirs, or relax by the pool.

Day 16: LOS ANGELES

Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation with extra nights and explore Los Angeles further.

Itinerary: Wonders of the American West

Day 1: Arrive in Las Vegas

Welcome to glittering Las Vegas. On arrival at Las Vegas International Airport, your transfer will take you to your hotel. At 18:00, join your Travel Director and companions for a Welcome Dinner with wine at the award-winning Bacchanal Buffet.

Caesars Palace, Las Vegas.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: The Wonders of the Grand Canyon

Journey on to Grand Canyon National Park. Choose to hike along the scenic Rim Trail with your Travel Director. Alternatively join a Local Expert, Canyon Tim, for a fascinating discussion on the wonders of this natural phenomenon, and learn about the local flora and fauna, and find out how you might be able to spot the local wildlife.

Grand Canyon National Park Lodge

Breakfast

Day 3: Grand Canyon and Lake Powell

Wake up to the backdrop of the Grand Canyon and enjoy some peace and tranquility before the day trippers arrive. You may take an optional flight-seeing helicopter ride for stunning views over the Grand Canyon before departing for the majesty of Lake Powell. Stop at Glen Canyon Dam to learn about its impact on the Colorado River before arriving at your lakefront resort. Check in to your room and enjoy the evening at leisure. Watch the sunset as you dine or relax by the pool.

Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas.

Breakfast

Day 4: A Leisurely day at Lake Powell Relaxed Start

Spend the day doing entirely as you please. Perhaps join an optional float trip (signed liability waiver required) down one of the most scenic stretches of the Colorado River or take to the skies and see the sights of Lake Powell, Glen Canyon Dam, and Horseshoe Bend with a 20 Minute landing on Tower Butte. The incredible 360-degree panoramic view this high is unlike any other. In the evening, enjoy an authentic dinner and performance at Red Heritage, a Navajo owned and operated performing arts theatre.

Lake Powell Resorts and Marinas.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 5: Monument Valley and the Navajo Nation

Journey on through the barren beauty of the desert to Monument Valley Navajo Tribal Park, where you will MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®. Board a Jeep 4x4 to explore the valley with your Navajo guide. These sturdy all-terrain vehicles offer open sides for spectacular views and a roof to protect you from the sun. Learn about Navajo history from your guide and more about life on their beautiful land. The area is also the backdrop for many Western Hollywood hits, including "Stagecoach" and "Fort Apache." Inspired by these iconic movies, you’ll find “John Wayne’s cabin” at nearby Goulding’s Lodge. This small structure was used for exterior shots in "She Wore a Yellow Ribbon," starring Wayne himself. The venue also holds a cinema dedicated to Wayne and his impressive movie portfolio. Enjoy a Navajo cookout Highlight Lunch amid the giant buttes and mesas of this unique landscape before making your way to Mesa Verde National Park, where the day draws to a close. Your lodge inside the park offers sweeping vistas reaching into three states.

Far View Lodge, Mesa Verde.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner with Wine

Day 6: Mesa Verde and Moab

Enjoy a comprehensive visit to the fascinating Mesa Verde National Park. View the ancient pueblo dwellings known as Cliff Palace. Settle in for a relaxing stay at your modern hotel superbly located on the charming Main Street. Later, enjoy a Dine-Around evening and choose from a hand-picked selection of excellent restaurants.

Homewood Suites, Moab.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 7: Delve into Canyonlands and Arches National Parks

In the morning, visit Arches National Park, housing the greatest concentration of natural arches in the world. Stop and take a short hike to the Delicate Arch Viewpoint to view the iconic arch. Then it's on to Canyonlands National Park for a drive onto the Island in the Sky, a mesa resting 1,000 feet (305 metres) above the surrounding countryside, offering spectacular views over the dramatic sandstone formations. Back at the hotel, your evening is at leisure. Perhaps enjoy the outdoors or relax in this beautiful natural setting.

Homewood Suites, Moab.

Breakfast

Day 8: Capitol Reef and Bryce Canyon National Parks

Magnificent scenery awaits at Capitol Reef National Park, best known for its Waterpocket Fold, a 100- mile-long (160 kilometre) warp in the earth's crust. Journey along scenic Byway 12 - one of the most beautiful roads in the world, winding through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument. End the night at The Lodge inside Bryce Canyon National Park. Officially designated as a Dark Sky Park, brightly hued sunsets and starry nights are likely to be found here.

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon.

Breakfast

Day 9: Whimsical Bryce Canyon National Park Relaxed Start

Start the day traveling through Bryce Canyon National Park, the great natural Amphitheatre. These whimsical eroded rock formations that characterize this Utah National Park are some of most unusual shapes imaginable, having an abstract artistic feel to them. Learn how wind, erosion and iron oxidation created the spellbinding hoodoos with your Travel Director. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a memorable Celebration Dinner set overlooking the park's vivacious orange and red rock formations.

The Lodge at Bryce Canyon.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 10: Zion National Park, back to Las Vegas

Enjoy a last look at Bryce Canyon, glowing in the early morning light. Head on to Zion National Park - one of the most scenic canyons in the United States. Here, join a guided tour by a private Zion Canyon Shuttle, with live commentary, and views of the park's best sites. Your journey ends with a departure transfer to Las Vegas International Airport, arriving at 16:00.

Breakfast