12 day itinerary for San Francisco, Las Vegas, Gran Cañon

Itinerary

Planning a 12-day adventure through San Francisco, Las Vegas, and the Grand Canyon sounds like a fantastic trip! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances sightseeing, relaxation, and a bit of adventure.

## Day 1: Arrival in San Francisco

• Morning: Arrive in San Francisco. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Head to Fisherman’s Wharf. Grab some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl and enjoy the sea lions at Pier 39.
• Evening: Take a sunset cruise on the bay for stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

## Day 2: Explore San Francisco

• Morning: Visit Alcatraz Island. Make sure to book your tickets in advance!
• Afternoon: Explore the vibrant streets of Chinatown and grab lunch at a dim sum restaurant.
• Evening: Stroll through North Beach, San Francisco’s Little Italy, and enjoy dinner at a cozy Italian restaurant.

## Day 3: More of San Francisco

• Morning: Head to Golden Gate Park. Visit the de Young Museum and the California Academy of Sciences.
• Afternoon: Walk across the Golden Gate Bridge for breathtaking views.
• Evening: Explore the Haight-Ashbury district, known for its history in the 1960s counterculture movement. Enjoy dinner at a local eatery.

## Day 4: Day Trip to Muir Woods and Sausalito

• Morning: Take a guided tour or drive to Muir Woods National Monument to see the majestic redwoods.
• Afternoon: Head to Sausalito for lunch with a view. Explore the charming shops and waterfront.
• Evening: Return to San Francisco and enjoy a casual dinner in the Mission District, famous for its vibrant murals and delicious food.

## Day 5: San Francisco to Las Vegas

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and do some last-minute sightseeing or shopping.
• Afternoon: Fly or drive to Las Vegas (about a 1.5-hour flight or a 10-hour drive).
• Evening: Check into your hotel on the Strip. Explore the casinos and have dinner at one of the many themed restaurants.

## Day 6: Las Vegas

• Morning: Visit the Neon Museum to see iconic Las Vegas signs.
• Afternoon: Explore the Las Vegas Strip, stopping at famous hotels like the Bellagio (don’t miss the fountain show) and the Venetian.
• Evening: Catch a show! Whether it’s Cirque du Soleil or a concert, there’s always something happening in Vegas.

## Day 7: Day Trip to Hoover Dam

• Morning: Take a guided tour or drive to the Hoover Dam (about 30 minutes from Vegas).
• Afternoon: Explore the dam and learn about its history. Return to Las Vegas for lunch.
• Evening: Enjoy a buffet dinner at one of the hotels and try your luck at the casinos.

## Day 8: Las Vegas to Grand Canyon

• Morning: Depart for the Grand Canyon (about a 4-hour drive).
• Afternoon: Arrive at the South Rim. Stop at the visitor center and take in the views from Mather Point.
• Evening: Enjoy a sunset at the canyon. Stay overnight at a lodge or campsite nearby.

## Day 9: Grand Canyon Exploration

• Morning: Hike along the Rim Trail or take a guided tour. Don’t forget your camera!
• Afternoon: Visit the historic Grand Canyon Village and grab lunch at the El Tovar Hotel.
• Evening: Stargazing! The Grand Canyon is a designated Dark Sky Park, so enjoy the night sky.

## Day 10: Grand Canyon to Las Vegas

• Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and take one last look at the canyon.
• Afternoon: Drive back to Las Vegas.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore a different part of the Strip. Maybe try a new restaurant or bar!

## Day 11: Las Vegas to San Francisco

• Morning: Fly back to San Francisco.
• Afternoon: Spend your last day shopping in Union Square or visiting any sights you may have missed.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city skyline.

## Day 12: Departure

• Morning: Enjoy a final breakfast in the city. If time allows, take a stroll through the Presidio or visit the Painted Ladies.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for your departure.

And there you have it! A fun-filled 12-day itinerary that captures the essence of San Francisco, the excitement of Las Vegas, and the natural beauty of the Grand Canyon. Enjoy your trip! 🌟