Las Vegas 2 day trip

Day 1: The Heart of the Strip

Morning:

Mandalay Bay:

Shark Reef Aquarium: Start your day exploring marine life and exotic animals.

Grab breakfast at House of Blues or the food court.

Luxor:

Visit Titanic: The Artifact Exhibition and/or Bodies... The Exhibition for educational intrigue.

Take fun family photos outside by the Sphinx.

consider a quick visit to The Casino at Luxor to let the kids enjoy the atmosphere.

Midday:

3. Excalibur:

Stop by the Fun Dungeon Arcade for some gaming.

Have lunch at Buca di Beppo or Dick's Last Resort for a quirky family dining experience.

Grab a quick lunch at the food court or enjoy a casual meal at Tournament of Kings (if time permits).

New York-New York:

Ride the Big Apple Coaster for thrills.

Explore Hershey’s Chocolate World for treats and souvenirs.

Explore Coney Island Emporium for classic arcade games and amusements.

Afternoon:

5. The Bellagio:

Stroll through the Conservatory & Botanical Gardens to see the seasonal display.

Visit the Fountain Show, with shows every 30 minutes (better view after dark, but daytime shows are still stunning).

Paris Las Vegas

Finish the night with a visit to Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck, where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the Strip and watch the Bellagio fountains from above.

Grab dessert at La Crêperie for a sweet treat.

Evening:

6. The Venetian:

Take a Gondola Ride (indoor preferred for kids).

Explore The Grand Canal Shoppes with street performers and a family-friendly vibe.

Dinner at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Shakes or Canaletto.

Mirage:

Catch the Volcano Show (eruptions start at 7 PM).

Optional: Visit the Secret Garden and Dolphin Habitat if not done earlier.

Day 2: More Entertainment on the Strip

Morning:

The LINQ Promenade:

Ride the High Roller Observation Wheel for panoramic city views.

Stop at Fly LINQ Zipline for an adrenaline rush (height/weight restrictions apply).

Flamingo:

Visit the Wildlife Habitat to see flamingos, koi fish, and more.

Quick snack or coffee at Carlos’ Bake Shop nearby.

Caesars Palace

Visit the Forum Shops to explore the luxury stores and the stunning architecture. Check out the Festival Fountain Show with its animatronic Roman statues.

Grab lunch at The Cheesecake Factory or Bacchanal Buffet, a highly-rated buffet with options for all tastes.

Midday:

3. Planet Hollywood – Miracle Mile Shops:

Browse the shops and stop for a fun lunch at Rainforest Café.

Enjoy the Indoor Rainstorm Show (free, every hour).

Afternoon:

4. Treasure Island (TI):

Watch the Sirens of TI Show (check current schedules as this may vary).

The Fashion Show Mall

Spend some time shopping or just enjoying the Dior and Chanel displays. There are also kid-friendly stores and entertainment options for a break.

The Wynn:

View the Lake of Dreams (waterfall and light show).

Walk around the luxurious setting, which feels like stepping into a lush escape.

Evening:

6. AREA15:

End your trip with immersive entertainment:

Meow Wolf’s Omega Mart for a mind-bending experience.

Explore the indoor attractions, free exhibits, and dining at The Beast by Todd English.

Additional Options for Flexibility:

M&M’s World & Coca-Cola Store: Fun, interactive stops for sweet treats and memorabilia near New York-New York.

The STRAT: For thrill-seeking older kids, the observation deck or extreme rides (e.g., Big Shot, Insanity) are unforgettable.

GameWorks or Arcade at MGM Grand: A great option for indoor family fun.

The Neon Museum

Take a fun and educational trip to see iconic neon signs and get a glimpse of Las Vegas history. The museum has a kid-friendly vibe with guided tours available.

The Cosmopolitan

Check out the Cosmo’s Marquee Nightclub & Dayclub area for its vibrant energy (even during the day!).

Visit the rooftop pool area if time allows or enjoy lunch at one of the cool eateries like The Henry.

 Fremont Street Experience

Head to Downtown Vegas for the evening light show under the Viva Vision Canopy.

Photographer friend's list of touristy places

Places sorted by order of preference by photographer friend:

1. Iceland
2. New Zealand
3. Banff
4. Norway
5. SouthWest USA
6. Alaska
7. Everest Base Camp
8. Kilimanjaro, at the summit. 
9. Beach places
1. Hawaii (Big Island, Maui)
2. Costa Rica
3. Cancun
4. Belize
10. Touristy places
1. Angkor Wat
2. Machu Pichu

Summer 2025 flight options

SFO-MAA 

Two-way:

https://www.google.com/travel/flights/search?tfs=CBwQAhojEgoyMDI1LTA2LTAzagwIAhIIL20vMGQ2bHByBwgBEgNNQUEaIxIKMjAyNS0wNy0zMWoHCAESA01BQXIMCAISCC9tLzBkNmxwQAFIAXABggELCP___________wGYAQE&tfu=EgoIABABGAAgASgC&authuser=1

https://www.kayak.com/flights/SFO-MAA/2025-06-03-flexible-3days/2025-07-31-flexible-3days?ucs=10qh3hc&sort=price_a

one-way:

https://www.google.com/travel/flights/search?tfs=CBwQAhojEgoyMDI1LTA2LTAzagwIAhIIL20vMGQ2bHByBwgBEgNNQUFAAUgBcAGCAQsI____________AZgBAg&tfu=EgoIABAAGAAgASgC&authuser=1

MAA-SFO one-way:

https://www.google.com/travel/flights/search?tfs=CBwQAhojEgoyMDI1LTA3LTMxagcIARIDTUFBcgwIAhIIL20vMGQ2bHBAAUgBcAGCAQsI____________AZgBAg&tfu=EgoIABABGAAgASgC&authuser=1

Snow chain tire sizes for vehicles

2013 Toyota Sienna LE

235/60 R17

17’’ wheels
X-Large size snow socks

2024 Tesla Model 3

235/45R18

18" Front/Rear 18 x 8.5J 38

18" König CG-9 102

Hankook Kingergy GT tires by default

Large size snow socks

2002 Toyota Camry XLE

215/60R16

Large size snow socks

Existing chains:

chains fits sae class s vehicles

Winter 2024 bus tours from Bay Area

1. Grand Canyon, Teton, Yellowstone, Canyonlands, Arches, Antelope Canyon, Monument Valley from Los Angeles.

https://www.taketours.com/las-vegas-nv/9-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yellowstone-arches-grand-teton-and-jackson-hole-winter-tour-from-los-angeles-las-vegas-5-star-hotel-in-vegas--886-19795.html

2. Antelope, Teton, Yellowstone, Mt.Rushmore from LA:

https://www.goldenbustours.com/13-day-los-angeles-to-san-francisco-pebble-beach-crazy-horse-antelope-canyon-salt-lake-city-17-mile-drive-grand-teton-yellowstone-national-park-rocky-mountain-las-vegas-night-tour.html

3. Yosemite, Yellowstone, Teton, Mt.Rushmore, Antelope.

https://www.goldenbustours.com/11-day-san-francisco-to-las-vegas-mount-rushmore-st-george-grand-teton-national-park-las-vegas-with-helicopter-night-tour.html#=It-day-9

4. Yosemite, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Los Angeles (theme parks) 10 days. Ends in LA.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/10-day-san-francisco-yosemite-national-park-las-vegas-and-los-angeles-semi-self-guided-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-286-19745.html

5. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 9 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/9-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yosemite-and-theme-park-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-586-19547.html

6. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks or Joshua tree), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. 9 days.

https://www.goldenbustours.com/9-day-san-francisco-to-las-vegas-flyover-las-vegas-kings-canyon-national-park-east-rim-grand-canyon-lake-powell-tour.html#=overview

7. Grand Canyon, Bryce, Zion, Monument Valley, Capitol Reef, Las Vegas, Canyonlands, Arches

https://www.goldenbustours.com/8-day-san-francisco-to-zion-np-grand-canyon-np-bryce-canyon-np-monument-valley-lower-antelope-canyon-wilson-arch-las-vegas-tour.html

8. Yosemite, Los Angeles (theme parks), Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 8 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/8-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-yosemite-and-theme-park-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-486-19547.html

9. Yosemite, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Glen Canyon, Lake Powell. Ends in LA. 7 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/7-day-grand-canyon-antelope-canyon-monterey-san-francisco-and-yosemite-national-park-tour-from-from-san-francisco-686-19534.html

10. Yosemite, Las Vegas, Hoover Dam, Sedona, Monument Valley, Antelope Canyon, Valley of Fire. Ends in LV. 7 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/7-day-magnificent-west-san-francisco-las-vegas-yosemite-monument-valley-tour-from-san-francisco-037-6186.html

11. Northern California, Oregon, Washington

https://www.goldenbustours.com/7-day-san-francisco-to-napa-valley-redwood-national-forest-washington-state-capitol-building-amtrak-coast-starlight-burney-falls-woodburn-outlets-tour.html

12. Yosemite, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Grand Canyon. Ends in LA. 6 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/6-day-las-vegas-or-neighborhood-san-francisco-and-yosemite-national-park-tour-from-san-francisco-with-airport-pickup-186-19745.html

13. Las Vegas, Grand Canyon, Zion, Bryce, Canyonlands, Arches, Antelope Canyon. 6 days.

https://www.taketours.com/san-francisco-ca/6-day-zion-bryce-canyon-canyonlands-arches-antelope-canyon-and-grand-canyon-grand-circle-from-san-francisco-186-19687.html

Overall trips:

https://www.taketours.com/search/tour.do?dep_ids=20&pageNum=undefined&order=durationlong&fdep=20&filterStartDates=2024-12-18~2025-01-01&

https://www.goldenbustours.com/san-francisco-tours

Winter 2024 Road trip from Bay Area

1. Yosemite, Grand Canyon, LV, LA

Fri, Dec 20: Drive to Merced

Sat, Dec 21: Yosemite

Sun, Dec 22: LA

Mon, Dec 23: LA

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to LV. Mojave National Preserve en-route.

Wed, Dec 25: LV

Thu, Dec 26: Drive to Grand Canyon

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon

Sat, Dec 28: LV

Sun, Dec 29: Back

2. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, LV

1. Day 1 Drive to Death Valley NP; Stay (night 1) (6.5 hrs drive)

2. Night 1: Stay at DV Park

3. Day 2 look around DV and 2 hour drive to LV; stay (night 2) (2 Hour drive)

4. Night 2 Check in at LV

5. Day3 Las Vegas stay (night 3) (local drives if any)

6. Night 3 Stay at LV 

7. Day 4 : Drive to Page (night 4) (4.5 hr drive)

8. Night 4: Stay at Page, Az.

9. Day 5 : GC (night 5) (local drives)

10. Night 5: Stay at Page, Az.

11. Day 6 : Drive to Kingman via Flagstaff, all view points on the way (night 6) (4.5 hr drive)

12. Night 6: Kingman, Az (for sleep break)

13. Day 7 : Drive back home (9 hours)

3. Yosemite, LA, Grand Canyon, Death Valley, LV

Fri, Dec 20: Drive to Merced

Sat, Dec 21: Yosemite, back to Merced

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to Death Valley. 

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to LV. Mojave National Preserve & possibly Castle Mountains en-route.

Wed, Dec 25: LV

Thu, Dec 26: LV

Fri, Dec 27: Hoover Dam. Drive to Grand Canyon. Stay near depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff or Page.

Sat, Dec 28: Grand Canyon

Sun, Dec 29: Drive to LA

Mon, Dec 30: LA

Tue, Dec 31: LA

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

4. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, warmer South Arizona

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Death Valley

Sun, Dec 22: Death Valley. 

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in night.

Tue, Dec 24: Las Vegas

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend.

Sat, Dec 28: Sunset Crater volcano, Wupatki National Monument

Sun, Dec 29: Sedona, Red Rock state park, Slide Rock state park, Tonto natural bridge state park

Mon, Dec 30: Lost Dutchman state park,  Picaho Peak state park, Saguaro national park

Tue, Dec 31: Kartcher Caverns state park, Catalina state park, start driving back

Wed, Jan 1: Joshua Tree national park, Drive back home

5. Death Valley, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Death Valley

Sun, Dec 22: Death Valley. 

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in night.

Tue, Dec 24: Las Vegas

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Sat, Dec 28: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Sun, Dec 29: Grand Staircase Escalante, White Pocket, Coral Pink Sand dunes, Spooky Slot canyon, Peekaboo Red Canyon Slot (technically challenging)

Mon, Dec 30: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Tue, Dec 31: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

6a. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to Las Vegas

Sun, Dec 22: Las Vegas. 

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Wed, Dec 25: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Thu, Dec 26: Natural Bridges, Canyonlands

Fri, Dec 27: Dead Horse Point, Arches

Sat, Dec 28: Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef

Sun, Dec 29: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Mon, Dec 30: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV

Tue, Dec 31: LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

6b. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff. 

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Tue, Dec 24: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon

Wed, Dec 25: Monument Valley, Natural Bridges, Canyonlands 

Thu, Dec 26: Dead Horse Point, Arches

Fri, Dec 27: Goblin Valley, Capitol Reef

Sat, Dec 28: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion, stay in LV.

Mon, Dec 30: LV

Tue, Dec 31: LV

Wed, Jan 1: Drive back home

7. Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, more time

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff. 

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page

Tue, Dec 24: Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip)

Wed, Dec 25: Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges 

Thu, Dec 26: Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point

Fri, Dec 27: Arches

Sat, Dec 28: Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef

Sun, Dec 29: Capitol Reef

Mon, Dec 30: Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin

Tue, Dec 31: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Wed, Jan 1: Great Basin

Thu, Jan 2: Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3: Las Vegas

Sat, Jan 4: Death Valley

Sun, Jan 5: Back home

8. Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Drive to California City

Sun, Dec 22: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams or Flagstaff. 

Mon, Dec 23: Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. 

Tue, Dec 24: Bryce Canyon

Wed, Dec 25: Kodachrome Basin

Thu, Dec 26: Cedar Breaks

Fri, Dec 27: Zion

Sat, Dec 28: Great Basin 

Sun, Dec 29: Las Vegas 

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Death Valley

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Joshua tree

Sat, Jan 4: LA or Big Sur

Sun, Jan 5: Back home

9. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, more time

Sat, Dec 21

Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22

Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23

Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon Junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24

Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page.

Wed, Dec 25

Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip).

Thu, Dec 26

Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges.

Fri, Dec 27

Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point.

Sat, Dec 28

Arches.

Sun, Dec 29

Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef.

Mon, Dec 30

Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin.

Tue, Dec 31

Cedar Breaks, Zion.

Wed, Jan 1

Great Basin.

Thu, Jan 2

Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3

Las Vegas.

Sat, Jan 4

Back Home

10. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Bryce Canyon

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Cedar Breaks

Sat, Dec 28: Zion

Sun, Dec 29: Great Basin

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Big Sur

Sat, Jan 4: Back home

11. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks

Sun, Dec 29: Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Death Valley

Fri, Jan 3: Big Sur

Sat, Jan 4: Back home

12. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, surrounding

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Sun, Dec 29: Las Vegas

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Death Valley

Wed, Jan 1: Channel Islands

Thu, Jan 2: Big Sur, back home

13. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, colder South Utah, aggressive

Sat, Dec 21

Golden Gate Bridge

Sun, Dec 22

Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23

Hoover Dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon Junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24

Grand Canyon South Rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay at Page.

Wed, Dec 25

Antelope Canyon, Rainbow Bridge, Glen Canyon, Zebra Slot Canyon, Tunnel Slot Canyon (can skip).

Thu, Dec 26

Monument Valley, Goosenecks State Park, Bear Ears National Monument, Valley of the Gods, Natural Bridges.

Fri, Dec 27

Canyonlands, Dead Horse Point.

Sat, Dec 28

Arches.

Sun, Dec 29

Goblin Valley, Little Wild Horse Slot Canyon, Capitol Reef.

Mon, Dec 30

Bryce Canyon, Kodachrome Basin.

Tue, Dec 31

Cedar Breaks, Zion. Drive to Vegas.

Wed, Jan 1

Las Vegas.

Thu, Jan 2

Las Vegas

Fri, Jan 3

Back Home

14. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, southern Utah, relaxed

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive to California City

Mon, Dec 23: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Tue, Dec 24: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Wed, Dec 25: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Thu, Dec 26: Kodachrome Basin

Fri, Dec 27: Bryce

Sat, Dec 28: Cedar Breaks

Sun, Dec 29: Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

15. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Drive dear Death Valley

Mon, Dec 23: Death Valley

Tue, Dec 24: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Wed, Dec 25: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Thu, Dec 26: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Fri, Dec 27: Kodachrome Basin

Sat, Dec 28: Bryce

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

16. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Utah

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur

Mon, Dec 23: Channel Islands

Tue, Dec 24: Death Valley

Wed, Dec 25: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Thu, Dec 26: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Fri, Dec 27: Page. Antelope Canyon.

Sat, Dec 28: Kodachrome Basin, Bryce

Sun, Dec 29: Cedar Breaks, Zion

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

17. San Francisco, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley, Southern Arizona

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur

Mon, Dec 23: Channel Islands

Tue, Dec 24: Death Valley

Wed, Dec 25: Hoover dam, Lake Mead, Grand Canyon West. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Thu, Dec 26: Grand Canyon South Rim, Horseshoe Bend.

Fri, Dec 27: Sunset Crater volcano, Wupatki National Monument

Sat, Dec 28: Sedona

Sun, Dec 29: Saguaro national park

Mon, Dec 30: Las Vegas

Tue, Dec 31: Las Vegas

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive back home

Sun, Dec 29: 

Mon, Dec 30: Tue, Dec 31: Kartcher Caverns state park, Catalina state park, start driving back

18. San Francisco, Big Sur, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur. Stay in Big Sur.

Mon, Dec 23: Start driving to Death Valley. Stay en-route in California City.

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to Death Valley. Stay. 

Wed, Dec 25: Death Valley. If we are near North Death Valley, stay night in Las Vegas, else stay in same place as earlier. Apply for Wave daily lottery 3 days prior.

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Drive to Grand Canyon South rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay in Page.

Sat, Dec 28: Wave (lottery permit) or Lake Powell. Drive to Bryce City.

Sun, Dec 29: Bryce Canyon. Stay near Bryce.

Mon, Dec 30: Cedar Breaks or Kodachrome. Stay near Bryce.

Tue, Dec 31: Drive to Zion. Drive to Las Vegas in the night.

Wed, Jan 1: Las Vegas

Thu, Jan 2: Drive home

19. San Francisco, Big Sur, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur. Stay in Big Sur.

Mon, Dec 23: Start driving to Death Valley. Stay en-route, close to Death Valley's entrance.

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in the night.

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas. Stay in Las Vegas. Apply for Wave lottery permit.

Thu, Dec 26: Hoover dam, Lake Mead. Stay near Grand Canyon depending on availability, at Grand Canyon junction, Williams, or Flagstaff.

Fri, Dec 27: Drive to Grand Canyon South rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay in Page.

Sat, Dec 28: Wave (lottery permit) or Lake Powell. Drive to Bryce City.

Sun, Dec 29: Bryce Canyon. Stay near Bryce.

Mon, Dec 30: Cedar Breaks or Kodachrome. Stay near Bryce.

Tue, Dec 31: Great Basin. Stay near Great Basin.

Wed, Jan 1: Drive to Reno. Stay

Thu, Jan 2: Drive home

20. San Francisco, Big Sur, Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, Death Valley

Sat, Dec 21: Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco

Sun, Dec 22: Big Sur.

Mon, Dec 23: Start driving to Death Valley. Stay en-route in Ridgecrest.

Tue, Dec 24: Drive to Death Valley. Drive to Las Vegas in the night. Stay.

Wed, Dec 25: Las Vegas.

Thu, Dec 26: Las Vegas.

Fri, Dec 27: Hoover dam, Lake Mead. Stay near Grand Canyon.

Sat, Dec 28: Drive to Grand Canyon South rim. Horseshoe Bend. Stay in Page.

Sun, Dec 29: Wave (lottery permit) or Lake Powell. Stay in Page.

Mon, Dec 30: Glen Canyon or Rainbow bridge. Drive to Bryce. Stay near Bryce. 

Tue, Dec 31: Bryce Canyon. Stay near Bryce. 

Wed, Jan 1: Start driving home. Stay en-route.

Thu, Jan 2: Drive home. Reach night.

https://www.mapquest.com/routeplanner/from/us/ca/san-jose/95120-4417/6147-franciscan-way-37.22497,-121.89458/to/us/nevada/great-basin-national-park-470557700/to/us/utah/bryce-canyon-national-park-434959111/to/us/utah/zion-national-park-534171230/to/us/az/page-282022570/to/us/arizona/grand-canyon-national-park-south-entrance-449537648/to/us/nevada/hoover-dam-470561178/to/us/nv/las-vegas-492976340/to/us/california/death-valley-national-park-467625300/to/us/ca/big-sur-282916536/to/us/utah/cedar-breaks-national-monument-351694322

Detours near Las Vegas:

Valley of Fire state park, Red Rock Canyon state park, Tule Springs fossil beds, Kershaw-Ryan state park-Canyon Overlook Loop, Caliente ghost town, Cathedral Gorge State Park with Moon Caves-Cathedral Caves-Miller Point Trail

Detours near Page:

Buckskin gulch slot canyon (prefer AWD), White Pocket (4WD needed). Consider 4WD tours such as Coral Cliff tours, Alstrom Point (needs AWD near the end).

Lone Rock Beach, Lake Powell.

Car paint protection options

Paint Protection Film (PPF): Expensive. Has an array of brands & types. Ceramic nanoparticle option. Can be for just the front or the entire car.

Ceramic Coating: Multiple layer options. Can be applied on top of PPF.

Composite Coating: Icon Rocklear. Can apply PPF on top of this coating.

List of California State Parks through library pass

 

https://www.parks.ca.gov/?page_id=30813

Nonparticipating parks

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Angel Island State Park (SP)
Antelope Valley Indian Museum State Historic Park (SHP)
Arthur B. Ripley Desert Woodland SP
Bodie SHP
California State Mining and Mineral Museum Park Property (PP)
California State Railroad Museum Point of Interest
Cambria State Marine Park (SMP)
Carnegie State Vehicular Recreation Area (SVRA)
Castaic Lake State Recreation Area (SRA)
Cayucos State Beach (SB)
Clay Pit SVRA
Corona del Mar SB
Dockweiler SB
Eastern Kern County Onyx Ranch SVRA
El Presidio de Santa Barbara SHP
Empire Mine SHP
Fort Tejon SHP
Governor’s Mansion SHP
Hearst San Simeon State Historical Monument
Heber Dunes SVRA
Hollister Hills SVRA
Hungry Valley SVRA
Lake Del Valle SRA
Lake Valley SRA
Leland Stanford Mansion SHP
Leucadia SB
Limekiln SP
Los Encinos SHP
Marconi Conference Center SHP
Marsh Creek SHP

Martial Cottle Park SRA
Monterey SHP
Moonlight SB
Oceano Dunes SVRA
Ocotillo Wells SVRA
Pacifica SB
Petaluma Adobe SHP
Pío Pico SHP
Placerita Canyon SP
Point Cabrillo Light Station SHP
Point Dume SB
Point Sur SHP
Prairie City SVRA
Railtown 1897 SHP
Robert W. Crown Memorial SB
San Bruno Mountain SP
Santa Monica SB
Santa Susana Pass SHP
Shasta SHP
Sonoma SHP
State Indian Museum SHP
Sutter Buttes SP
Sutter’s Fort SHP
Tomo-Kahni SHP
Twin Lakes SB
Wassama Round House SHP
Watts Towers of Simon Rodia SHP
Weaverville Joss House SHP
Will Rogers SB
Will Rogers SHP
Woodland Opera House SHP

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Participating parks (by county)

POI = Point of Interest
SB = State Beach
SHM = State Historical Monument
SHP = State Historic Park
SMP = State Marine Park
SMR = State Marine Reserve
SNR = State Natural Reserve
SP = State Park
SP SS = State Park State Seashore
SRA = State Recreation Area
SVRA = State Vehicular Recreation Area
WC = Wayside Campground

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ALAMEDA

• Albany SMR (also in Contra Costa)
• Bethany Reservoir SRA
• Emeryville Crescent SMR (also in Contra Costa)
• McLaughlin Eastshore SP SS (also in Contra Costa)
• ALPINE
• Grover Hot Springs SP

AMADOR

• Indian Grinding Rock SHP

BUTTE

• Bidwell Mansion SHP
• Bidwell-Sacramento River SP (also in Glenn)
• Lake Oroville SRA

CALAVERAS

• Calaveras Big Trees SP (also in Tuolumne)

COLUSA

• Colusa-Sacramento River SRA

CONTRA COSTA

• Albany SMR (also in Alameda)
• Emeryville Crescent SMR (also in Alameda)
• Franks Tract SRA
• McLaughlin Eastshore SP SS (also in Alameda)
• Mount Diablo SP

DEL NORTE

• Del Norte Coast Redwoods SP
• Jedediah Smith Redwoods SP
• Pelican SB
• Prairie Creek Redwoods SP (also in Humboldt)
• Tolowa Dunes SP

EL DORADO

• Auburn SRA (also in Placer)
• D.L. Bliss SP
• Ed Z’berg Sugar Pine Point SP
• Emerald Bay SP
• Folsom Lake SRA (also in Placer & Sacramento)
• Marshall Gold Discovery SHP
• Washoe Meadows SP

FRESNO

• Millerton Lake SRA (also in Madera)

GLENN

• Bidwell-Sacramento River SP (also in Butte)

HUMBOLDT

• Azalea SNR
• Benbow Lake SRA
• Fort Humboldt SHP
• Grizzly Creek Redwoods SP
• Harry A. Merlo SRA
• Humboldt Lagoon SP
• Humboldt Redwoods SP
• John B. Dewitt Redwoods SNR
• Little River SB
• Prairie Creek Redwoods SP (also in Del Norte)
• Richardson Grove SP
• Sinkyone Wilderness SP (also in Mendocino)
• Sue-meg SP
• Trinidad SB

IMPERIAL

• Picacho SRA
• Salton Sea SRA (also in Riverside)
• Anza-Borrego Desert SP (also in Riverside & San Diego)

KERN

• Red Rock Canyon SP
• Tule Elk SNR

LAKE

• Anderson Marsh SHP
• Clear Lake SP
• Robert Louis Stevenson SP (also in Napa & Sonoma)

LOS ANGELES

• Antelope Valley CA Poppy Reserve SNR
• Kenneth Hahn SRA (Baldwin Hills Overlook Only)
• Leo Carrillo SP (also in Ventura)
• Los Angeles SHP
• Malibu Creek SP
• Malibu Lagoon SB
• Rio de LA State Park SRA
• Robert H. Meyer Memorial SB
• Saddleback Butte SP
• Topanga SP
• Verdugo Mountains Park Property

MADERA

• Millerton Lake SRA (also in Fresno)

MARIN

• China Camp SP
• Mount Tamalpais SP
• Olompali SHP
• Samuel P. Taylor SP
• Tomales Bay SP

 

MENDOCINO

• Admiral William Standley SRA
• Caspar Headlands SB
• Caspar Headlands SNR
• Greenwood SB
• Hendy Woods SP
• Jug Handle SNR
• MacKerricher SP
• Mailliard Redwoods SNR
• Manchester SP
• Mendocino Headlands SP
• Mendocino Woodlands SP
• Montgomery Woods SNR
• Navarro River Redwoods SP
• Reynolds WC
• Russian Gulch SP
• Schooner Gulch SB
• Sinkyone Wilderness SP (also in Humboldt)
• Smithe Redwoods SNR
• Standish-Hickey SRA
• Van Damme SP
• Westport Union Landing SB

MERCED

• George J. Hatfield SRA
• Great Valley Grasslands SP
• McConnell SRA
• Pacheco SP (also in Santa Clara)
• San Luis Reservoir SRA

MONO

• Mono Lake Tufa SNR

MONTEREY

• Andrew Molera SP
• Asilomar SB
• Carmel River SB
• Fort Ord Dunes SP
• Fremont Peak SP (also in San Benito)
• Garrapata SP
• Hatton Canyon Park Property
• John Little SNR
• Julia Pfeiffer Burns SP
• Marina SB
• Monterey SB
• Moss Landing SB
• Pfeiffer Big Sur SP
• Point Lobos SNR
• Salinas River SB (also in Santa Cruz)
• Zmudowski SB (also in Santa Cruz)

NAPA

• Bale Grist Mill SHP
• Robert Louis Stevenson SP (also in Lake & Sonoma)
• Sugarloaf Ridge SP (also in Sonoma)
• Bothe-Napa Valley SP (also in Sonoma)

NEVADA

• Donner Memorial SP (also in Placer)
• Malakoff Diggins SHP
• South Yuba River SP

ORANGE

• Bolsa Chica SB
• Chino Hills SP (also in Riverside & San Bernardino)
• Crystal Cove SP
• Doheny SB
• Huntington SB
• San Clemente SB
• San Onofre SB (also in San Diego)

PLACER

• Auburn SRA (also in El Dorado)
• Burton Creek SP
• Donner Memorial SP (also in Nevada)
• Folsom Lake SRA (also in El Dorado & Sacramento)
• Kings Beach SRA
• Tahoe SRA
• Ward Creek Park Property
• Burton Creek SP
• Donner Memorial SP (also in Nevada)
• Folsom Lake SRA (also in El Dorado & Sacramento)
• Kings Beach SRA
• Tahoe SRA
• Ward Creek Park Property

PLUMAS

• Plumas-Eureka SP

RIVERSIDE

• Anza-Borrego Desert SP (also in Imperial & San Diego)
• California Citrus SHP
• Chino Hills SP (also in Orange & San Bernardino)
• Indio Hills Palms Park Property
• Lake Perris SRA
• Mount San Jacinto SP
• Salton Sea SRA (also in Imperial)
• San Timoteo Canyon Park Property
• Wildwood Canyon Park Property

SACRAMENTO

• Brannan Island SRA
• Delta Meadows Park Property
• Folsom Lake SRA (also in El Dorado & Placer)
• Folsom Powerhouse SHP
• Locke Boarding House Museum POI
• Stone Lake Park Property

SAN BENITO

• Fremont Peak SP (also in Monterey)
• San Juan Bautista SHP

 SAN BERNARDINO

• Chino Hills SP (also in Orange & Riverside)
• Providence Mountains SRA
• Silverwood Lake SRA

 

SAN DIEGO

• Anza-Borrego Desert SP (also in Riverside & Imperial)
• Border Field SP
• Cardiff SB
• Carlsbad SB
• Cuyamaca Rancho SP
• Palomar Mountain SP
• San Elijo SB
• San Onofre SB (also in Orange)
• San Pasqual Battlefield SHP
• Silver Strand SB
• South Carlsbad SB
• Tijuana Estuary NP POI
• Torrey Pines SB
• Torrey Pines SNR

SAN FRANCISCO

• Candlestick Point SRA

SAN JOAQUIN

• Caswell Memorial SP

SAN LUIS OBISPO

• Estero Bluffs SP
• Harmony Headlands SP
• Hearst San Simeon SP
• Los Osos Oaks SNR
• Montaña de Oro SP
• Morro Bay SP
• Morro Strand SB
• Pismo SB

SAN MATEO

• Año Nuevo SP
• Bean Hollow SB
• Big Basin Redwoods SP (also in Santa Cruz)
• Burleigh H. Murray Ranch Park Property
• Butano SP
• Gray Whale Cove SB
• Half Moon Bay SB
• Montara SB
• Pescadero SB
• Pigeon Point Light Station SHP
• Pomponio SB
• Portola Redwoods SP
• San Gregorio SB
• Thornton SB
• Castle Rock SP (also in Santa Cruz & Santa Clara)

SANTA BARBARA

• Chumash Painted Cave SHP
• El Capitán SB
• Gaviota SP
• La Purísima Mission SHP
• Point Sal SB
• Refugio SB
• Carpinteria SB (also in Ventura)

SANTA CLARA

• Henry W. Coe SP (also in Stanislau)
• Pacheco SP (also in Merced County)
• Castle Rock SP (also in Santa Cruz & San Mateo)

SANTA CRUZ

• Big Basin Redwoods SP (also in San Mateo)
• Henry Cowell Redwoods SP
• Lighthouse Field SB
• Manresa SB
• Natural Bridges SB
• New Brighton SB
• Salinas River SB (also in Monterey)
• Santa Cruz Mission SHP
• Seacliff SB
• Sunset SB
• The Forest of Nisene Marks SP
• Wilder Ranch SP
• Zmudowski SB (also in Monterey)
• Castle Rock SP (also in San Mateo & Santa Clara)

SHASTA

• Ahjumawi Lava Springs SP
• Castle Crags SP
• McArthur Burney Falls SP

SOLANO

• Benicia SRA
• Benicia Capitol SHP

SONOMA

• Armstrong Redwoods SNR
• Austin Creek SRA
• Fort Ross SHP
• Jack London SHP
• Kruse Rhododendron SNR
• Robert Louis Stevenson SP (also in Lake & Napa)
• Salt Point SP
• Sonoma Coast SP
• Sugarloaf Ridge SP (also in Napa)
• Trione-Annadel SP
• Bothe-Napa Valley SP (also in Napa)

STANISLAUS

• Henry W. Coe SP (also in Santa Clara)
• Turlock Lake SRA

TEHAMA

• William B. Ide Adobe SHP
• Woodson Bridge SRA

TULARE

• Colonel Allensworth SHP

TUOLUMNE

• Columbia SHP
• Calaveras Big Trees SP (also in Calaveras)

VENTURA

• Carpinteria SB (also in Santa Barbara)
• Emma Wood SB
• Leo Carrillo SP (also in Los Angeles)
• Mandalay SB
• McGrath SB
• Point Mugu SP
• San Buenaventura SB

Mid-size cruelty-free automobile options

Tesla Model Y

Vegan seating

Hyundai 

Ioniq 5 & 6 have leather wrapped wheel

Sonata SEL AWD

Vehicle & Powertrain Coverage

Powertrain Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Powertrain Limited Warranty

New Vehicle Warranty

5-Year / 60,000-Mile

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Anti Perforation Warranty

7-Year / Unlimited Miles

Anti-Perforation Warranty

24 Hour Roadside Assistance

5-Year / Unlimited Miles

24-Hour Roadside Assistance

Parts, Accessories and Emissions Coverage

Warranty Replacement and Parts

12-Month / 12,000-Mile

Replacement Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty

Federal Emission Defect Warranty

8-Year / 80,000-Mile

Federal Emission Defect and Performance Warranty

CA Emissions Control Warranty

7-Year / 70,000-Mile

California Emissions Control Systems Warranty

Electric and Hybrid Powertrain Coverage

 image test

Hybrid System & Components Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Hybrid/EV Battery Warranty

Hyundai Nexo 2023 has leather wrapped wheel

Hyundai Sonata SEL without the convenience package doesn't have leather

Kia

Kia Sorento: Large and capable, the three rows of seating in the Kia Sorento provide space, while the AWD system provides safety.

Kia K5: The luxurious K5’s upper trim levels are AWD-equipped.

Vehicle & Powertrain Coverage

Powertrain Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Powertrain Limited Warranty

New Vehicle Warranty

5-Year / 60,000-Mile

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

Anti Perforation Warranty

7-Year / Unlimited Miles

Anti-Perforation Warranty

24 Hour Roadside Assistance

5-Year / Unlimited Miles

24-Hour Roadside Assistance

Parts, Accessories and Emissions Coverage

Warranty Replacement and Parts

12-Month / 12,000-Mile

Replacement Parts and Accessories Limited Warranty

Federal Emission Defect Warranty

8-Year / 80,000-Mile

Federal Emission Defect and Performance Warranty

CA Emissions Control Warranty

7-Year / 70,000-Mile

California Emissions Control Systems Warranty

Electric and Hybrid Powertrain Coverage

 image test

Hybrid System & Components Warranty

10-Year / 100,000-Mile

Hybrid/EV Battery Warranty

Toyota 

2025 Camry LE doesn't have leather. SE, XSE, XLE have leather.

2024 Mirai doesn't have leather.

Camry AWD

Prius AWD

Limited warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles

Powertrain warranty covers five years or 60,000 miles

Hybrid components are covered for eight years or 100,000 miles

Complimentary maintenance is covered for two years or 25,000 miles

Mitsubishi 

Cross ES, LE, Ralliart, Black have fabric. Others have leather.

Outlander: has leather

2-Year/30,000-Mile Limited Maintenance (3 Oil & Filter Changes, 3 Tire Rotations and 1 Cabin Filter)

10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty

5-Year/Unlimited-Mile Roadside Assistance

Mazda

CX-50

3-year/36,000-mile1 New-Vehicle Limited Warranty

5-year/60,000-mile1 Powertrain Limited Warranty

3-year/36,000-mile1 24/7 Roadside Assistance Program

	Powertrain Limited Warranty	New Vehicle Limited Warranty	Anti-Perforation Warranty
Hyundai	10-Year / 100,000-Mile	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	7-Year / Unlimited
Toyota	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	5-Year / Unlimited
Honda	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	5-Year / Unlimited
Nissan	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	5-Year / Unlimited
Chevrolet	5-Year / 60,000-Mile	3-Year / 36,000-Mile	6-Year / 100,000-Mile
Lexus	6-Year / 70,000-Mile	4-Year / 50,000-Mile	6-Year / Unlimited