From the shores to the city, explore the gems of the East Coast on a 9-day tour of the USA.
Discover the iconic sights and unique regional character of the US East Coast. As you begin your journey in Maine, enjoy the rocky coastline, majestic views, and rugged maritime charm of Acadia National Park. Visit part of Boston’s famous Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile trail of 16 historically significant sites, before arriving at the bright lights of New York City. Join a local expert to see the Big Apple’s iconic landmarks and skyline, and sample local delicacies at a local public market. In Washington, D.C., visit the Lincoln Memorial and World War II Memorial and finish your trip in style with a cruise on the Potomac River.
Day 1
Arrival in Bar Harbor
Welcome to Bar Harbor, a bustling historic town on Maine’s scenic Atlantic coast. The evening is saved for a wonderful welcome dinner with new friends as you feast on authentic Maine lobster, a local specialty that will not disappoint.
Day 2
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 for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® indigenous oral traditional music experience.
Day 3
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 4
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 5
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 6
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 7
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 8
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. Next, MAKE TRAVEL MATTER,® by visiting 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 9
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.
