Inspiration for your trip to the southwestern USA

On this page, we offer you inspiration for your (first) vacation to the southwestern United States. It’s a perfect destination for families with adventurous teenagers and those who want to go on road trips. Along the roads in California, Arizona, Utah, and Nevada, you can experience American culture in diners. In the vast landscapes, you'll also get to know the culture and history of Native Americans. Plenty to do! These are our favorite national parks, coastal activities, and cities.

National Parks

The long, hot summers and rarely cold winters of the southwestern USA provide the perfect climate for the iconic landscapes of this region. You’re undoubtedly familiar with the 446 km long Grand Canyon, and you’ve likely seen photos of the wavy red walls of Antelope Canyon or Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon. You can also admire such red rocks and deep canyons in Zion National Park, Valley of Fire State Park, and Monument Valley. For sandstone arches, you’ll want to visit Arches National Park, where 2,000 of these natural rock formations can be found. In Death Valley National Park, you’ll be amazed by how nature can thrive even in extreme heat and drought (spoiler: it’s not all “death” there). Yosemite National Park is a stark contrast to these parks. Here, instead of red sandstone, you’ll find incredibly hard gray rock walls. No barren plains, but tall trees and green meadows.

^{Photo: Arches National Park / Little America}

^{Photo: Yosemite National Park / Little America}

The Best Nature Adventures in the Southwestern USA

• Take a helicopter flight over the Grand Canyon, have a picnic on a plateau at the bottom, and lift off again at sunset to see the landscape glow in the late sunlight.
• Learn from a guide during a private nature tour through Yosemite National Park. Search for wild bison and other wildlife while learning about the geography of two massive granite rock walls.
• Hike through the Zion Narrows, the iconic slot canyon with towering sandstone walls hundreds of meters high that closely flank a shallow river.
• Race in an ATV to Peek-a-Boo Slot Canyon. Speed across vast sandy plains to reach the narrow red gorge.
• Hike around the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Your hiking adventure will be tailored to your preferences and fitness level, bringing you panoramic views and the best lookout points along the majestic canyon.
• Hike and rappel in Zion National Park. Stunning views and an unforgettable, beginner-friendly descent along the rocks are guaranteed.
• Take an ATV tour through Zion National Park. Drive across a sandy plain to a 60-meter-high rock alcove, where you can hike further to the best viewpoint.

^{Photo: Abseilen in Zion National Park / Little America}

Coast

Soft sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and lively towns and cities. You can easily entertain yourself for weeks along the southwest coast of the USA. Read a book under a palm tree or learn to conquer the waves from a Californian surf legend. For a natural coastal landscape, visit the beaches and cliffs of Pismo Beach. The coastal area known as Big Sur offers more of this combination—hidden coves beneath towering cliffs and large rocks in the sea.

^{Photo: Big Sur / Little America}

Along the coast runs a scenic road over 1,000 kilometers long: Highway 1. It's perfect for a road trip with that classic California vibe. Turn on the Beach Boys and hit the road. Would you prefer to explore the coast from the water? Take a whale-watching cruise in Monterey Bay. A marine biologist will guide you on a small charter boat powered by 100% local biodiesel. Beneath the water lies the Monterey Submarine Canyon, a trench deeper than the Grand Canyon. Here, there's a 95% chance you'll spot whales and dolphins!

^{Photo: Highway 1 / Little America}

Cities

Amidst all the nature in the southwestern USA, you won’t have to miss out on the urban charm. There are major cities like Los Angeles. Visit famous art museums, immerse yourself in the world of film in Hollywood, and enjoy the chill vibes of Venice Beach and Malibu. Hike up the hills in Griffith Park for a view of the city and the Hollywood sign, or bike along the promenade from Santa Monica to Venice Beach.

San Francisco is also worth a visit. Admire the long, red Golden Gate Bridge or take a boat trip to the former prison island of Alcatraz. The best way to explore the city's highlights is by bike. In three hours, you'll ride with a guide through historic streets lined with Victorian row houses and colorful murals. You'll pedal through neighborhoods, each with its own character, including Haight-Ashbury and Castro.

^{Photo: Little America}

Can’t get enough of the lively atmosphere, or would you rather visit a smaller city? The Southwest also offers San Diego, Santa Barbara, Carmel by the Sea, Sedona, and Kanab.

^{Photo: Santa Barbara / Little America}

Unique Accommodations in the Area

After a day full of adventure, you’ll want a good night’s sleep. Your stay becomes even more special with welcoming hosts who can share stories about the area and offer local tips. And with stunning views and delicious breakfasts, it’s even better. These are our favorite accommodations in the southwestern USA:

• Stay in a comfortable accommodation near the entrance of Yosemite National Park, like a retro silver American trailer.
• Enjoy a spectacular sunset from your luxury ranch in the heart of the Arizona desert.
• Spend the night in a wooden cottage among giant sequoia trees near Yosemite National Park.
• Stay in a luxury tent under a breathtaking starry sky, right in the middle of the Mojave Desert.
• Overnight on a Californian farm where you can eat organic fruit straight from the garden.
• Sleep in a comfortably renovated historic inn near Zion National Park.
• Stay and toast in a room at a sustainable vineyard in California.
• Spend the night in a luxury resort within driving distance of Utah’s most beautiful national parks.

^{Photo: Yosemite National Park accommodatie / Little America}

Help with Planning Your Trip to the Southwestern USA

Want to explore many urban attractions? Or would you prefer to hike through as much untouched nature as possible? Share your wishes with the travel experts at Little America and have your dream trip custom-made. These USA specialists know better than anyone where to experience the authentic Southwest. From surprising viewpoints to unique stays with local hosts. No tourist traps, but hidden gems like the lesser-known northern California. If you really want to get to know the country and enjoy that vacation feeling, you’ll travel at a relaxed pace. The small-scale travel agency takes this into account. Share your preferences, approve your dream trip, and your California Dreamin' will become reality!

This article was written in collaboration with the travel agency Little America. Looking for more travel inspiration or ready to plan your vacation to the USA or Canada? Visit their website for more information >