Inside our Itineraries: The best of the American West with our tour manager 

From the Elvis-inspired ‘Entertainment capital of the world’ to California’s coastal treasures, here’s what our tour manager, Andy, loves about tours in this part of the USA. 

Take it from us: some places stick with you long after you return home, and that's certainly true of the USA’s glittering western states. From desert Nevada, with the lights of Las Vegas at its centre, to the world-famous West Coast cities, this spectacular region has something to suit all interests, but it's often the unexpected encounters that make the biggest impact. 

One of our expert tour managers, Andy, recently led a tour which saw two of our customers tie the knot at the 'Little White Chapel' in Las Vegas, and we caught up with him to chat about it. Andy spoke to us about what being part of such a special occasion meant to the group, why he loves helping our customers explore this part of the world, and the must-see spots for any Elvis enthusiasts.

What’s the best part about leading tours?

There are so many great aspects that it's hard to specify, but in my head, I keep coming back to the opportunity to share iconic destinations with our customers and seeing the joy they experience. 

Do you feel that this part of the USA is well-suited to an escorted tour, and if so, why would you recommend exploring as part of a group?  

The part of the USA we explore on the America’s Golden West & Las Vegas tour is particularly well-suited for an escorted tour because of the amount of territory covered. The tour covers more than 2,000 miles, much of which has very little public transport, so we take the hassle of driving off customers’ hands. Instead, they can sit back and admire the consistently breathtaking scenery from the comfort of the coach. 

What first drew you to lead tours in this part of the world, and what makes it special to you?  

I was first drawn to showcase this part of the world by my parents’ residence in Arizona, and I was hoping to get tours that would allow me to visit them regularly in my free time. I relish the time in familiar surroundings that remind me of them, and the sheer beauty and welcoming climate of most of the tour. I also have a particular love for Los Angeles and San Francisco, and that makes the tour even more special to me. 

Is there anything about Las Vegas that still surprises you?  

Yes. From 2020 to 2025, Las Vegas’ slogan was “What happens here, only happens here.”  When I think of that slogan, I think of The Sphere, which is truly amazing every time you see it, even from the outside. 

We’ve heard you witnessed a marriage on one of your recent tours. Do you feel that sharing such a significant experience with the couple brought the group closer together?  

Absolutely! Being invited to share such a personal and special moment in the couple’s lives and effectively serving as their wedding party by doing such tasks as taking photos for them helped create a bond, which lasted far beyond the ceremony itself. 

Is this the first time you’ve had something like this happen on one of your tours, and was it a surprise when it happened?  

One couple renewed their vows in a Las Vegas wedding chapel last year on one of my tours, and another couple got engaged on the 67th floor at Top of the Rock overseeing the New York City skyline, but in my experience, this is the first actual marriage we’ve had.  

Given that Elvis Presley had a deep connection to Vegas, are there any attractions you’d recommend to people who are interested in ‘The King’?  

Yes, several. Arguably top of the list is the Westgate's iconic International Theatre, where Elvis performed 636 consecutive sold-out shows from 1969 to 1976. The Theatre still puts on tribute shows to Elvis, and there's also a statue of 'The King' and an Elvis memorabilia collection at the resort. 

Another is the Little Church of the West, now located near the Welcome to Las Vegas sign our tours always stop at. Its brown chapel was used in the final scenes of Viva Las Vegas, where Elvis's character Lucky weds Ann-Margret's character Rusty. 

What advice would you give to someone who’s visiting this part of the USA for the first time?  

Be prepared for several different types of climates, and drink plenty of water when you’re in the desert. 

If you had to sum up the American West in three words, which would you choose?  

Vast, rugged, dynamic. 

Discover the best of the American West with Newmarket Holidays  

Fancy your own Great American adventure? Whether you’re keen to soak up Elvis Presley’s favourite spots in Vegas or have always dreamt of seeing California’s most recognisable landmarks, our carefully curated itineraries are the perfect choice. For more information on our featured tours, give one of our friendly holiday planners a call today.