Combine history with fun on a 16-day tour of Canada and the United States
See top destinations in two countries on this 16-day tour of Canada and the U.S. Stroll through the urban yet regal Queen’s Park in downtown Toronto, then get up close to the world’s most famous waterfall, Niagara Falls. Wander through Montreal’s grand mansions and enter Notre Dame Basilica—a masterpiece of Gothic Revival architecture with a gold and blue sanctuary—with a local expert. In Maine, dine on decadent, authentic local lobster caught fresh from the nearby harbor. Take a guided walk along Boston’s section of the Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail with 16 historically significant sites, including the home where the Boston Tea Party was planned in 1773. In Philadelphia, see the Liberty Bell, which has rung throughout history to herald some of the country’s most historic moments, such as the death of George Washington. In New York, meet local vendors at a local public market and sample local delicacies.
Day 1
Exciting Toronto
Welcome to Toronto, a vibrant city on Lake Ontario full of fine restaurants and bars and an eclectic mix of cultures. Once settled in, feel free to explore the city and discover what it has to offer. At 18:00, meet your tourism director and fellow travelers for a welcome dinner with wine.
Day 2
Toronto and thundering Niagara Falls
Take in Toronto’s top attractions, including Queen’s Park and Parliament House, before heading to the quaint town of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a 19th-century village overlooking Lake Ontario. Admire the city’s flowers and ancient architecture before heading to the spectacular Niagara Falls. Experience the thrill of Niagara Falls up close on a state-of-the-art eco catamaran. Experience the mighty force, rushing water and mesmerizing mist on this unforgettable boat ride to the base of the falls. Next, you can soar over Niagara’s stunning scenery on a thrilling helicopter ride. Witness the Whirlpool Rapids, Rainbow Bridge, American Falls, Skylon Tower and the mesmerizing Canadian Horseshoe Falls where rainbows appear in the mist. Later return to Toronto for a day at leisure or visit the top of the iconic CN Tower that defines the Toronto skyline. Interact with visual exhibits to learn fascinating stories about this marvel of engineering and enjoy panoramic views of the shimmering skyline and Lake Ontario.
Day 3
Kingston and Ottawa
Travel to historic Kingston, otherwise known as Limestone City. Here you will see the high-rise buildings, churches and fortifications of the city, many of which are built from the limestone itself. Continue to Canada’s capital, Ottawa, where you’ll join a cooking demonstration at a local barn owned by Just Food, a non-profit organization that offers lunches focused on sustainable food and farming practices. Learn new cooking skills and learn more about local cuisine using staples of the Canadian terroir, such as maple sugar, haskaps, Labrador tea and wildflowers. Finish the experience with a delicious three-course dinner with wine before returning to the hotel.
Day 4
The capital of Canada is Montreal
Get ready for an exciting morning exploring Ottawa with a tour of the city’s grand boulevards. Then visit Madahokee Farm and experience a lively traditional Pow Wow dance. Experience and learn about the diversity of Indigenous cultures across Canada and how they are reviving traditional arts through partnerships with elders and artisans. Continue to the diverse metropolis of Montreal, located in the French-speaking province of Quebec.
Day 5
Montreal, Royal Mountain
Today you will join a local expert to guide you through Old Montreal. The narrow cobbled streets attract you with their lively little squares, shops and cafes. From the grand mansions of Mount Royal to the iconic Old Port, Old Montreal is a historic district that is now a major hotspot with beautiful architecture, vibrant street art and plenty of photo opportunities, especially at the top of Mount Royal. Next, visit Notre Dame Basilica and discover the history of Canada’s first neo-Gothic church and admire its breathtaking architecture and exceptional stained glass windows. The rest of the day is free to enjoy as you please.
Day 6
Montmorency Falls Park to Quebec
Leave Montreal behind for an authentic Canadian culinary adventure, enjoying the sweet treats of maple syrup harvested and made right on site. Taste traditional maple dishes and experience the warmth of hospitality and rustic charm of an authentic sugar shack. After lunch, continue to Montmorency Falls Park to experience this natural wonder that rises 272 feet (84 m) above the St. Lawrence River. Walk the full width of the falls on the suspension bridge between the two sides of the park, or if you’re feeling adventurous, you can take the panoramic stairs down the cliff face. After taking lots of photos, you will continue your journey to Quebec.
Day 7
The quintessence of Quebec
Discover more of Quebec’s history and charm with a local expert. You’ll see the Latin Quarter, the Plains of Abraham, City Hall, and the Royal Palace, learning about the city’s long history as one of the oldest European settlements in North America. No visit to Old Quebec would be complete without seeing the grand Hotel Château Frontenac, designated a National Historic Site of Canada and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the first major railway hotels built in Canada. You can enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. In the evening, enjoy a celebratory dinner in historic Old Quebec.
Day 8
Quebec – Bar Harbor
Say “Au Revoir” to Quebec when you cross the US border and travel to Mount Desert Island on the Atlantic coast. This large island is a peaceful retreat with freshwater lakes, rocky peaks, forests and impressive mountains. Enjoy the serene atmosphere of your hotel, which is located on the island itself. The evening is saved for a wonderful dinner with new friends as you feast on authentic Maine lobster, a local specialty that will not disappoint.
Day 9
Explore Acadia National Park
Admire the natural beauty of Acadia National Park with its spectacular rocky coastline and rugged maritime charm. You’ll get amazing views of the park from the top of Cadillac Mountain, and guests who want to explore on foot can join their tour director to explore famous sites like Thunder Hole. You will have time to explore Bar Harbor on your own. Stop for ice cream or head to the bustling gift shops to stock up on holiday treats. This evening, visit the Bar Harbor Historical Society’s charming waterfront building to meet a local Wabanaki storyteller to experience oral traditional indigenous music.
Day 10
From the coast of New England to Boston
Travel along Maine’s rocky coast, stopping in picturesque Kennebunkport, a sparkling New England resort town and the iconic home of the Bush family. The town has some lovely, well-preserved mansions, many of which have been converted into charming inns.
Day 11
Boston, the cradle of freedom
Known for its history of the American Revolutionary War, Boston is a destination for avid history buffs. Join your tour director as he guides you along the Freedom Trail, a route that takes you past several historically significant sites, including the Old State House and Assembly House, where the Boston Tea Party of 1773 was planned. The rest of the day is at leisure. Maybe take a walk to Downtown Crossing or historic Faneuil Hall. For foodies looking for the best street food in the city, head to Boston’s North End. This part of town, with its large Italian community, is home to some of the best Italian bakeries in the city, as lines of shoppers circle the block for fresh cannoli and other treats.
Day 12
A bite of a big apple
Follow the bright lights to New York. Visit one of the city’s newest attractions, Summit One Vanderbilt, with stunning views of the New York skyline, or explore the fascinating architecture of Midtown on foot with a local expert. This evening, your hotel is in the heart of Time Square and within walking distance of iconic landmarks such as Rockefeller Center, Bryant Park, and the Broadway Theatre.
Day 13
A masterpiece of Manhattan
Explore the city that never sleeps with your local expert before venturing out on your own. If you need some peace and quiet, enjoy the tranquility of Central Park, a sprawling expanse designed by famed landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. Later, visit Essex District Market on the Lower East Side for a food tour and demonstration.
Day 14
Liberty in Philadelphia and DC
Travel to Pennsylvania’s largest city, Philadelphia, where the Liberty Bell was first rung and Thomas Jefferson wrote the Declaration of Independence. Explore Independence National Historical Park and visit the Liberty Bell with your tour director. A trip to Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps join the optional Illuminations Tour in the evening to see the capital’s sights in a new light.
Day 15
Washington, DC Attractions and Leisure
In the morning, immerse yourself in a sightseeing tour and delve into the nation’s proud heritage. See the White House, the impressive Washington Monument and the sprawling National Avenue. Reflect on the nation’s most turbulent days at the Lincoln Memorial and World War II Memorial. Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the Smithsonian’s newest member and the only national museum dedicated exclusively to documenting African American life, history, and culture. The rest of the day is at leisure. Join your Tourism Director and other guests for a celebratory dinner and toast to new friends and fantastic memories.
Day 16
Departure from Washington, DC
Depart at your leisure to Dulles International Airport or Reagan National Airport for your flight home. Also, continue your stay at your own discretion.
