United States: 25 highlights not to be missed!
An epicenter of entertainment and excess, a land of a thousand landscapes, the United States is a destination of many possibilities. Whether it’s an adventure trip to the far reaches of Arizona, a city break in the metropolises of the East, or a cultural and gourmet tour of Louisiana, the United States has a lot (a lot) to offer!
To celebrate Toundra’s 25th anniversary, we’ve put together a selection of 25 not-to-be-missed experiences in the land of Uncle Sam. From must-sees to unusual accommodations and original activities, here’s our selection of made-in-the-USA nuggets.
THE WEST (PARKS & ROCHEUSES) – Cowboy country!
Located in the Wahweap marina, the Lake Powell Resort is the only establishment on the shores of the lake. So it’s important to specify when booking whether guests want a view, as it’s not guaranteed otherwise. The resort is comfortable, the rooms spacious and the two beautiful swimming pools will delight young and old alike. What’s more? The hotel offers boat excursions, including a 3-hour cruise that takes travelers from Glen Canyon Dam through spectacular Antelope Canyon to Navajo Canyon. Double kayaks and 8-seater boats are also available for hire.
In the heart of Arizona, Tombstone Monument Guest Ranch invites guests to experience a real working cowboy ranch. Here, everything is done to immerse guests in the Western atmosphere, with all modern comforts including swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Rooms are decorated to represent the imagery of the Far West, including the Sheriff’s office, the blacksmith’s den and even the jail! On-site, a saloon livens up evenings with live music and poker, and adventurers for a few days can enjoy horseback riding. Rides are available for all levels, and it’s even possible to learn the cowboy trade with the cattle.
In Vegas, anything is possible. Absolutely anything. Couples ready to take the plunge are invited to the Graceland Wedding Chapel to let Elvis officiate their wedding. Established in 1939, this institution is the oldest chapel in Las Vegas and the 1st in the world to have imagined Elvis Presley look-alikes in the role of priest. Whether it’s simply to have a wild time or to officially tie the knot, travelers can enjoy the ultimate experience, whatever the season. Please note that a $102 fee is required to obtain a marriage license, in order to have the marriage legally recognized in the visitor’s country of origin.
With its postcard view, the Red Cliffs Lodge ticks all the boxes. The lodge sits almost right on the Colorado River, with magnificent red cliffs all around. Ideally located 24km from Arches National Park, all suites have patios to enjoy the scenery, and are decorated with Mexican tiles and wooden ceilings. To top it all off, the lodge boasts a beautiful swimming pool, a gym and tennis courts. A little something extra? The lodge features a Western Film Museum and horses ready to take you on a wild ride along the Colorado River!
It’s time to introduce you to the favorite of Laurence, our U.S. specialist. The Stagecoach Trail Guest Ranch is a human-scale ranch in the heart of Arizona, welcoming travelers as if they were at home. Here, everything revolves around the horses, which will be your companions for beautiful rides through the cacti, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced rider. Beautifully laid out like a small Western town, the ranch offers rooms with patios and rocking chairs, so you can enjoy a nap in the shade like a real cowboy. From a few nights to several weeks, visitors will leave as friends of the family, and there’s a good chance they’ll bump into Laurence!
Behind Jackson Hole Wildlife Safaris is not Jackson, but Jason! Photographer and wildlife guide since the 1990s, Jason Williams’ reputation and professionalism are second to none. After many seasons guiding snowmobile tours in Yellowstone, as well as rafting trips on the Snake River, Jason founded his company in 2007. He offers travelers a 4-hour adventure, in small groups of 6 to 8 people, to discover the animals of Grand Teton National Park (Elk, bighorn sheep, coyote, bald eagle…). Jason passionately shares his knowledge of the area’s flora and fauna for a fascinating experience, whatever the season.
This large chalet was built by the Great Northern Railway in the early 20th century. Strategically positioned 500 meters from the East Glacier train station and less than 20km from Glacier Park, the site has been renovated several times. Despite this, the establishment retains the rustic cachet of another era, thanks in particular to a magnificent half-timbered hall and an imposing wooden structure. The year-round complex features both family rooms and suites, as well as independent cottages set directly on the golf course. No televisions at Glacier Park Lodge. Here, we believe in the benefits of nature and convivial exchanges, and at Toundra, we’re all for it!
Under Canvas specializes in glamping, and with flair! For travelers looking for an outdoor experience without the hassle of camping, glamping combines the luxury of a fully-equipped home with the beauty of nature. At the gateway to several national parks in the American West, Under Canvas offers a memorable stay of one or more nights in converted tents. Of course, they also provide a culinary experience to match the accommodations. The hardest part will be choosing between Yellowstone, Zion, Moab, Glacier, Lake Powell and Mount Rushmore. The plus? Pets are welcome.
CALIFORNIA – The Sunshine Coast, but not only…!
What could be better than discovering a city with a local? That’s what L’Esprit San Francisco offers. Sylvie knows hectic SF like the back of her hand, and takes travelers on a French-language tour of the city’s treasures. The most popular service is the 3-hour group tour departing from Union Square. A tour of San Francisco essentials such as the Italian neighborhood of North Beach or Fisherman’s Wharf with its magnificent views of the Golden Gate. It’s also possible to organize private 4-hour tours on a variety of themes, such as the history of the Tramway, LGBT San Francisco or Street Art. Something to satisfy every curiosity!
California is a versatile, year-round state. For travelers in search of a different experience, the Alpenhof Lodge is the landmark for alpine ski lovers. Ideally located less than 10 minutes from Mammoth Mountain resort, it’s a cozy nest with the feel of an Austrian chalet. But it’s not just for the winter months. In summer, its pool, large terrace and privileged access to Convict Lake make it an ideal accommodation. And don’t forget that the Petras Bistro restaurant serves delicious Californian specialities.
Behind the rhyme is the sunny Laurie Gounelle, a French expatriate in America for over a decade. She offers travelers the chance to discover her San Diego, off the beaten track, with group tours of up to 10 people, or private visits. On foot, by bike or even in a Cadillac, Laurie offers tours lasting from 2 to 4 hours, in French or English. In sunshine and good spirits, visitors will be charmed by the experience and will have the time to enjoy historic San Diego and the jewel that is La Jolla. Bonus? An ice cream and/or a taco to round off this convivial experience!
THE SOUTH (LOUISIANE & FLORIDA) – Palm trees VS Bayou!
Built in the 1960s and renovated many times since, this hotel boasts an outstanding location on the shores of the translucent Crystal River. The resort is the ideal place to observe manatees in their natural habitat, especially in winter. The Plantation Resort on Crystal River boasts unparalleled charm, a beautiful lagoon-shaped pool, a fitness center and accepts four-legged companions. Travelers can also enjoy one of the finest 18-hole greens in all of Florida and the best of nature, right at their fingertips. At Toundra, we love the Resort’s white and green hues!
Cajun cuisine is, without doubt, a Louisiana treasure. Here’s an activity tailor-made for gourmet travelers. Aboard a minibus, a group of up to 14 people embarks on a 3-hour tour of Lafayette. Against a backdrop of history and culture, five tasting stops allow you to discover the city through the menu! Off the beaten track, Cajun Food Tours are a delicious way to enjoy the best of local Cajun restaurants. For the insatiably curious, it’s possible to take a full-day tour and combine the culinary experience with exploration of the surrounding area. On the program: a guided tour of Vermilionville, a boat trip through the marshes and even a Cajun dance lesson!
Louisiana’s history is intrinsically linked to that of the plantations. Today, many of them have been transformed into Bed & Breakfasts and charming hotels. A good way to preserve these historic places, like Mouton Plantation and its magnificent Creole building. Here, antique furnishings add character without appearing stuffy, and the 7 rooms are decorated with care. Nestled on a quiet street in downtown Lafayette’s historic Sterling Grove district, the garden hotel offers a peaceful bubble for travelers. It’s the perfect choice for couples, as Mouton Plantation’s cosy charm exudes romance.
A waterfront establishment, the Palm Hotel & Spa boasts 281 rooms and suites, with city or ocean views. At Toundra, we’re particularly fond of all the eco-friendly practices implemented at this award-winning independent resort. Here, well-being, relaxation and respect for the environment are at the heart of the guest experience. A relaxed atmosphere prevails in all seasons, and the entire décor is an ode to Miami and its palm trees. The spa is an experience in itself and the gourmet meals are divine. In short, for us, there are only good reasons to stay at this hotel!
Renowned for its Jazz Brunch, renowned beyond Louisiana’s borders, The Court of Two Sisters is much more than just a restaurant. Once a boutique buzzing with the customers of the Camors sisters, the building became a restaurant just after the end of the Second World War. Since the 1960s, the Fein family has been at the helm of this New Orleans French Quarter institution. Every day, travelers can enjoy a hearty brunch of over 60 dishes and specialties, from 9am to 3pm. In the sumptuous patio setting, a jazz trio provides musical accompaniment to the meal. The restaurant also offers a more traditional evening service.
NORTHEAST – Bite into the Big Apple!
This unique New York experience invites guests to choose the playlist for their evening! Every Saturday evening, on the edge of Time Square, this piano duel turns spectators into actors. Comfortably seated in the cabaret-like room, cocktail in hand, the audience can choose a song and submit it to one of the two pianists, who will reinterpret it in their own way. If the choice is not unanimous, the audience can intervene to change the title. In operation since 2010, Shake Rattle & Roll Pianos ensures that guests enjoy a memorable evening of laughter and dancing. A perfect night out with friends!
The brainchild of famed architect David Rockwell, the Civilian Hotel is located in the heart of bustling Hell’s Kitchen. Surrounded by entertainment and restaurants of all kinds, the hotel is ideally located less than 5 minutes from Time Square. Elegant and sophisticated, the hotel has turned its entire décor to a theatrical theme. All rooms feature vintage shots of Broadway and its shows, as well as contemporary works by local artists. Staying at the Civilian means stepping back in time and indulging in the luxury of a chic lounge featuring stage props and costumes from the 1960s.
New York is just waiting to reveal its secrets. For the curious, Untapped Cities guides travelers through the Big Apple’s hidden gems. Tours, in English and in small groups, last between 1h30 and 2 hours. Participants are invited to choose a theme from a wide range of suggestions, such as discovering the secrets of Rockefeller Center, visiting the mansions of 5th Avenue, exploring the remains of New Amsterdam or exploring the former Ellis Island hospital. Operated by passionate and enthusiastic guides, the activity is available in all seasons.
Summit One Vanderbilt reshuffles the deck when it comes to observation decks. Just a stone’s throw from Grand Central, the building offers a 93rd-floor view of the city that never sleeps. The experience, designed by Kenzo Digital, offers a truly artistic and multi-sensory immersion over three floors before accessing the final panorama. The tour is available all year round, day and night, and offers 360-degree views of New York. Unlike other observation decks such as Top of the Rock, outdoor access is more limited, but the adventure is elsewhere!
Just below New York State, Massachusetts is a nugget in any season. At Toundra, we have a soft spot for Cape Cod, a magnificent peninsula of wild coastline that ranks in the Top 10 destinations for whale watching. It’s perfect timing, since we’re offering your travelers the chance to meet these gentle giants of the sea on Hyannis Whale Watcher. The boat and crew sail into the waters of the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary to visit whales, dolphins and other marine mammals. This 4-hour cruise operates during the migration season, from May to October, and is ideal for families.
OFF THE ROAD (ALASKA & HAWAI) – Journey to faraway lands!
Open year-round, this welcoming inn is located about 20 km from the entrance to splendid Denali National Park. Nestled in the seclusion of Otto Lake, it boasts breathtaking views of Mount Healy and Mount Dora. Away from the hustle and bustle, this family-run establishment is a quiet stopover for travelers seeking rest and comfort. Rooms are simple, decorated in a variety of styles, and breakfast is served free of charge. The hotel, which enjoys privileged access to the seaplane service, is within walking distance of a golf course and several restaurants. A pleasant, reliable and unpretentious classic for adventurous travelers.
A living museum of McCarthy’s village history, this hotel is much more than just an accommodation. The 20 cozy rooms of this former boarding school welcome travelers to the heart of Wrangell – St Elias National Park & Preserve and bear witness to the old days. Unparalleled hospitality, top-notch cuisine and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside await guests at Ma Johnson’s Hotel. Open only from May 15 to September 15, this is a sought-after accommodation, and we advise you to jump on availability. It’s worth the money!
Alaska is an immense territory that sometimes requires a combination of modes of transport. For travelers who love slow tourism, are looking for a more eco-responsible way to enjoy their stay, or are simply looking for an experience with a difference: welcome to Alaska Railroad! The American side of its cousin the Trans-Canada, the Alaska Railroad’s main line crosses the state and its unspoiled nature. Since it began operations in 1923, the line has been running from Anchorage to Fairbanks, passing through Denali and Talkeetna. All in all, it’s a 12-hour journey to the rhythm of the rails, with a choice of different classes.
Hidden in the rainforest of Ohi’a and Hapu’u, at the entrance to Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, this magnificent establishment offers rooms decorated in a unique style. A clever blend of woodwork, volcanic stone and floral inspirations, Chalet Kilauea invites you to relax. Ideally located, this boutique hotel boasts a fish pond, a beautiful garden gazebo and an outdoor hot tub. Surrounded by nature, travelers are welcome year-round and will have easy access to numerous activities such as hiking, golf and horseback riding. The bonus? Tea time served daily at snack time!
At Toundra, we work hard to offer you a wide range of services in the United States. A vast territory, it’s an immense playground for adventurers in search of unique and unforgettable experiences. So vast, in fact, that our 25 nuggets are just a condensed version of a much longer list that’s just waiting to be put to good use for your travelers’ vacations!
A HUGE thank you to our valued partners: Tourisme Outaouais, Abitibi-Témiscamingue, Yukon, Travel Alberta, Brand USA and Toundrigo!