School trips to the West Coast USA
From iconic cities to natural wonders.
For many students, a school trip to the West Coast USA is a trip of firsts. The first time seeing the Pacific Ocean. The first time standing beneath the Golden Gate Bridge. The first glimpse of the Grand Canyon stretching beyond the horizon.
It's the kind of destination that stays with you. From the bright lights of Las Vegas and the steep streets of San Francisco to the vast landscapes of Yosemite, Death Valley and the Grand Canyon, students experience a scale and variety that's difficult to find anywhere else in the world.
What to expect on a school trip to the West Coast USA with NST
The scale of the West Coast USA is difficult to appreciate until you're there.
Students don't just read about iconic landscapes and cities; they stand in the middle of them. From the Grand Canyon and Death Valley to San Francisco and Las Vegas, it's a destination that brings learning to life on an extraordinary scale.
What are the highlights of a school trip to the West Coast USA?
The West Coast is packed with iconic experiences.
- Grand Canyon – a natural wonder that has to be seen to be believed.
- San Francisco – from the Golden Gate Bridge to Alcatraz, it's one of America's most recognisable cities.
- Hoover Dam – an incredible example of human ingenuity and engineering on a grand scale.
- Death Valley – experience one of the world's most extreme environments first-hand.
- And more... Las Vegas, Pier 39, Fisherman's Wharf and the unforgettable landscapes that make this region so distinctive.
Why book your school trip to the West Coast USA with NST?
When you're travelling thousands of miles from home, expert support matters.
That's why so many schools choose NST. Our team will help bring together every aspect of your trip, from the first enquiry to your return flight home, giving you the confidence and support needed to plan a successful West Coast USA experience.
Browse our most popular West Coast school trips
Why choose NST?
Here's why thousands of teachers choose NST each year...
- Unrivalled school trip knowledge
Your dedicated Tour Co-ordinator will use their trip planning knowledge and expertise to create a tailor-made, curriculum-linked itinerary to meet your group’s exact needs.
- Making it easier for you
Your own trip organiser, travel app, free classroom packs and trip promo resources.
- Free group leader inspection visits
Visit your chosen destination free of charge and plan with confidence.
- Value for money, always
We work hard to make every penny count.
- Over 55 years’ experience
With NST you can rest assured that your group is in safe hands.
- Aligned to your learning outcomes
Every trip can be built around your specific goals — from the latest GCSE and A level curriculum requirements to particular themes, interests or visits you want to focus on.
- Risk assessment guidance
Clear, practical support to help you manage group safety including our free guide.
- Offsetting carbon emissions
Through our partnership with Carbon Footprint, we're committed to offset one tonne of CO2 emissions, and plant a tree on school grounds in the UK, for every trip booked.
West Coast USA highlights - our groups love...
San Francisco tour
The city lies on the world-renowned San Andreas Fault, and is well documented for its approaches to hazard management. Admire the amazing view of the city from Twin peaks, opt for a San Francisco Bay cruise under Golden Gate Bridge, visit Alcatraz, or head down to the famous Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39. We highly recommend a visit to the new California Academy of Sciences for all groups. The Academy recently opened a new 400,000 square foot facility which houses an aquarium, a planetarium, a natural history museum, and a four-storey rainforest all under one roof.
Death Valley National Park
Students can experience first-hand Death Valley’s harsh, arid environment, dramatic scenery and landscapes. Your group will cross over the 5,000ft Towne Pass before taking a closer look at the desert. One of the hottest places on earth, this region is contrasted by the dramatic backdrop of snow-capped mountains.
Grand Canyon
This vast chasm is arguably one of the most spectacular geographical sites in the world. Opt to take one of several set walks to explore this awe-inspiring canyon. A once in a lifetime opportunity!
Las Vegas
This glitzy city, built in the middle of the desert, is a testimony to man’s ability to overcome the challenge of the physical environment. Its main street and focal point is the Strip, just over 4 miles long. This boulevard is home to themed hotels with elaborate displays such as fountains synchronized to music as well as replicas of an Egyptian pyramid, the Venetian Grand Canal, and the Eiffel Tower.
Yosemite National Park
A wilderness park renowned for the mountain and valley scenery, waterfalls, grand meadows and forests containing the groves of giant sequoias. (May to October only due to seasonal weather)
Pier 39 and Fishermans Wharf
Pier 39 and Fishermans Wharf is a shopping centre and popular tourist attraction built on a pier in San Francisco. At Pier 39 there are shops, restaurants, a video arcade, street performers, an interpretive centre for the marine mammal centre, the aquarium of the bay, virtual 3D rides and views of California sea lions hauled out on docks on Pier 39’s marina.
Hoover Dam Tours
For groups staying for two nights in Vegas, a visit to the famous Hoover Dam is a must. You can take a 30 minute tour of the Hoover Dam power plant and take a look around the visitors centre. Alternatively, opt for the hour long guided tour, which includes the 30 minute option plus a tour of the passageways of the dam itself.
