Travel Itineries Across America

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our expertly crafted itineraries, designed to guide you through some of America's most remarkable destinations. Whether you're planning a quick getaway or an extended exploration, these itineraries, crafted by William Stanek and Hui Cha, provide detailed, day-by-day guidance to help you make the most of your time. Drawing on decades of travel experience and a deep love for America's diverse landscapes, these itineraries offer more than just a roadmap - they are your key to unlocking hidden gems, must-see landmarks, and the cultural richness of each location. Let these itineraries lead you to an enriching experience, whether it's a whirlwind tour or a leisurely journey across the country.

William, Hui Cha and our youngest 3 at Yellowstone

About Us: We're the Staneks, a couple who has spent a lifetime exploring the world together. From living in Asia, Europe, the Pacific, and across the USA, to capturing the beauty of each place through our lenses, our journey has been one of discovery and adventure. I'm William, a former top expert at Microsoft, where I spent years writing books, leading seminars and training sessions around the globe. Alongside my wife, Hui Cha, we turned our passion for travel into a celebrated photography career, capturing the essence of the world's most breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures.

Let us take you deeper into our journey as we guide you through the essence of travel across America. Our expertly crafted itineraries are more than just plans; they are a reflection of the experiences we've gathered over decades of exploration. Together, we've crossed continents, lived in diverse regions around the world, and discovered the extraordinary beauty that lies within every corner of the United States. Now, we're excited to share these experiences with you, combining our passion for adventure with our expertise in travel planning to help you create unforgettable journeys through some of America's most remarkable destinations.

National Parks Index | US Itineraries Index | American Roadtrips Index

Table of Contents

Explore America's Iconic Landscapes with Our Detailed Itineraries

Hand-Picked Itineraries for Thursday

These itineraries have been carefully curated for today, offering you a perfect blend of adventure and discovery. Each route is chosen for its exceptional experiences, scenic beauty, and the unforgettable memories it promises to create. Don't miss out - new itineraries are featured daily, so be sure to return tomorrow for another selection of hand-picked adventures.

November 21, 2024

Exploring Lassen Volcanic and Redwood National and State Parks: A 2-day Journey

The first time I visited Lassen Volcanic National Park, I was struck by how different it felt from the more famous parks in California. Growing up in South Korea I had always imagined California as a land of beaches and bustling cities. But here, in the shadow of Lassen Peak, I discovered a rugged, volcanic landscape that felt like another world - one shaped by fire and brimstone, where steaming fumaroles and boiling springs hinted at the immense forces at work beneath the Earth's surface.

Unveiling the Wonders of Canyonlands and Arches National Parks: Utah's Iconic Red Rock Landscape. 2-Day Itinerary.

Our journey began on a warm summer morning as we drove along the winding roads that lead to these two iconic parks. The desert stretched out before us, a sea of sagebrush and juniper trees, with the distant silhouette of the La Sal Mountains providing a dramatic backdrop. We had been to Utah's red rock country before, but the sense of anticipation was still palpable. These parks have a way of drawing you in, of making you feel small in the best possible way.

Embracing the Wild Beauty of the Crown of the Continent: 3 Days at Glacier and Waterton Lakes

Known as the Crown of the Continent, Glacier National Park captured my heart with its towering peaks, pristine alpine lakes, and glaciers clinging to the mountainsides. I vividly remember my first hike on the Highline Trail. The sheer cliffs, the sound of the wind whistling through the valleys, and the sight of wildflowers swaying in the breeze made me feel as though I had stepped into a postcard. Standing there, surrounded by the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains, I felt a deep connection to the wildness of this place.

Ultimate Big Island Hawaii: A 5-Day Journey Through Hawaii's Natural Wonders

The Big Island of Hawaii is a land of contrasts, where fiery volcanoes meet lush rainforests, and black sand beaches give way to turquoise waters. This five-day journey will take you through the island's most stunning landscapes, including the awe-inspiring Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. With stays in Kona, Volcano Village, and Hilo, you'll experience the full range of what the Big Island has to offer - from vibrant marine life and towering waterfalls to the dramatic power of Kīlauea, one of the world's most active volcanoes.

A 2-Day Journey Through Colorado's High Country: Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho National Forest

Our journey began on a crisp autumn morning, the kind where the sky is impossibly blue and the first hints of snow dust the peaks. We had set out early, eager to explore Rocky Mountain National Park and Arapaho National Forest, two of Colorado's most stunning natural areas. The drive from our home in Colorado Springs took us through some of the state's most beautiful scenery - rolling foothills giving way to towering peaks, the trees cloaked in their autumn finery of golds and reds.

Travel Itineraries: Reader Favorites for Your Next Adventure

Explore today's selection of itineraries that have won the hearts of fellow travelers. These reader-approved routes are known for their stunning vistas, diverse experiences, and the lasting impressions they leave. Whether you're revisiting a beloved destination or setting out on a new journey, these itineraries are sure to enhance your adventure. Come back tomorrow for more reader-favorite itineraries to inspire your travels.

November 21, 2024

A 5-Day Journey Through the Pacific Northwest: Exploring Whidbey Island, Orcas Island, and Victoria

When Hui Cha and I set foot on the San Juan Islands, it felt like stepping into a different world. We had driven from Seattle early that morning, the city's skyline fading behind us as we ventured north. The air was crisp and clear, carrying with it the promise of adventure. As we approached the ferry terminal at Anacortes, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The ferry, with its rows of cars and passengers eagerly awaiting the crossing, seemed like a gateway to something extraordinary.

Exploring the Southwest: A 5-Day Journey Through Saguaro, White Sands, Carlsbad Caverns, Petrified Forest, and Monument Valley

The American Southwest is a region defined by its rugged beauty, where vast deserts, towering cacti, ancient petrified trees, and deep underground caverns tell the story of the earth's ancient past. This five-day journey will take you through some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring landscapes in the Southwest, from the majestic saguaro forests of Arizona to the otherworldly dunes of White Sands, the subterranean wonders of Carlsbad Caverns, the fossilized forests of Petrified Forest National Park, and the iconic red rock formations of Monument Valley.

Exploring the Heart of Monument Valley: A 5-Day Journey Through the American Southwest

Monument Valley is a place where the spirit of the American Southwest comes alive. The towering red rock formations, expansive desert vistas, and rich Navajo culture make it one of the most iconic landscapes in the world. For five days, we'll immerse ourselves in this awe-inspiring environment, staying at the renowned The View Hotel or the historic Goulding's Lodge, which offers breathtaking views and direct access to the valley's wonders.

A 2-Day Journey Through Utah's Red Rock Wilderness: Arches National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park

Exploring Arches National Park and Dead Horse Point State Park was a journey into the heart of this red rock wilderness - a land of towering arches, jagged cliffs, and sweeping vistas. For Hui Cha, the experience was one of awe and reverence, a reminder of the raw power and beauty of the natural world. For me, William, it was an opportunity to capture the stark contrasts and vibrant colors of the landscape, to find beauty in the details, and to immerse ourselves in the serenity of the desert.

Exploring Yellowstone and Grand Teton: A 3-Day Dual Adventure

It was a crisp September morning when I first set foot in Yellowstone National Park. The air was cool, with a slight bite that hinted at the approaching winter. My breath formed small clouds as I exhaled, adding a tangible quality to the excitement I felt as I drove along the winding roads. I was alone on this trip, with Hui Cha joining me later in Grand Teton. It wasn't just the thrill of capturing the raw beauty of these two magnificent parks that stirred me, but also the memories of my grandfather, who had often spoken of his love for Yellowstone.

Creative Inspirations for Thursday

Let today's itineraries ignite your imagination and inspire your next great adventure. These routes are designed to take you off the beaten path, where the beauty of nature and the excitement of discovery combine to fuel your creative spirit. Every day brings new landscapes and stories, so be sure to check back tomorrow for more inspirational journeys.

November 21, 2024

A 2-Day Journey Through Arizona's Timeless Landscapes: Grand Canyon National Park and Petrified Forest

In the American Southwest there's a rawness to the landscape - a stark beauty that speaks to the power of nature and the passage of time. Nowhere is this more evident than in Arizona's Grand Canyon National Park and Petrified Forest National Park. These two parks, with their vast, open spaces and rich geological histories, offer a journey through time itself - a chance to connect with a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for millions of years.

Ultimate 5-Day Adventure Through Indiana Dunes, Mammoth Cave, and Gateway Arch

The Midwest is often seen as the heartland of America, a region rich in natural beauty and historical significance. Our five-day adventure through Indiana Dunes National Park, Mammoth Cave National Park, and Gateway Arch National Park offers a unique journey that blends the beauty of pristine beaches and towering sand dunes, the mystery of the world's longest cave system, and the grandeur of an iconic monument to westward expansion.

Exploring Rocky Mountain and Great Sand Dunes: A 3-day Dual Adventure

It was late September, the kind of crisp, cool morning that hinted at the onset of autumn, when Hui Cha and I first set out on our journey through two of Colorado's most breathtaking national parks - Rocky Mountain National Park and Great Sand Dunes National Park and Preserve. The mountains were already dusted with early snow, and the air was filled with the scent of pine and the promise of adventure.

3-day Itinerary. Deep Exploration of Everglades and Biscayne National Parks

Growing up in the Midwest, I was more accustomed to forests and mountains than the flat, watery expanse of this unique ecosystem. Yet, as soon as I stepped into the park, I was captivated. The Everglades, with its slow-moving waters, sawgrass prairies, and rich biodiversity, felt like stepping into another world - one where nature ruled and time moved at a different pace. I remember standing on the boardwalk at the Anhinga Trail, watching an alligator glide silently through the water below, while birds called out from the surrounding marshes. It was a place of stillness and raw beauty, where every step brought a new discovery. Returning here with Hui Cha, we found that the Everglades and nearby Biscayne National Park offer an extraordinary adventure, rich with history, wildlife, and the serenity that only such untouched places can provide.

Discovering Colorado's Natural Wonders: A 5-Day Journey Through Rocky Mountain National Park, Castlewood Canyon, Cheyenne Mountain, and Beyond

Colorado is a land of dramatic landscapes, from towering mountain peaks to ancient fossil beds, deep canyons, and rugged ridges. It's a place where nature's beauty is on full display, offering endless opportunities for adventure, reflection, and discovery. Our five-day journey through Colorado's Rocky Mountain National Park, Castlewood Canyon, Cheyenne Mountain, and beyond is designed to immerse you in the diverse natural wonders of this stunning state.

Discover the beauty and diversity of America's landscapes with our carefully curated itineraries, designed to suit every traveler's schedule and interests. Whether you're planning a quick escape or a longer journey, each itinerary offers a thoughtful blend of must-see attractions, hidden treasures, and local culture, ensuring you make the most of your time on the road. With insights from seasoned travelers William Stanek and Hui Cha, these guides are more than just a travel plan - they're your gateway to unforgettable experiences across the United States.