Explore national parks and iconic cities on this 10-day tour of the USA
Discover the spectacular national parks and eclectic cities of the eastern United States on this 10-day tour. Enjoy wide open spaces, stunning scenery, iconic city landmarks and indulge in bountiful food, music and art. Starting in Washington, DC, enjoy the spectacular colors of Shenandoah National Park, sample signature wines at Veritas Winery, and reconnect with nature at West Virginia’s New River Gorge National Park, America’s newest national park. Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Citizen Vinyl Record’s pressing plant in Asheville and explore the sprawling Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America. Discover the region’s fascinating history at the Oconaluft Indian Village by joining an expert on Cherokee culture for a hands-on experience. Pack a picnic in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and explore the intricate caves of Mammoth Cave National Park, ending your trip with a crescendo in Nashville, the birthplace of country music.
Day 1
A monumental time in Washington, DC
Welcome to Washington, DC, the nation’s capital and haven for history and art lovers. Join your Tourism Director and meet other guests at a private welcome dinner with wine at 6:00 p.m.
Day 2
Washington, DC to Shenandoah National Park
This morning, immerse yourself in a sightseeing tour of Washington, DC. See iconic landmarks and national landmarks, including the White House, the Washington Monument, the National Mall, and the Lincoln Memorial. Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture for the experience. As the Smithsonian’s newest member, it is the only national museum dedicated exclusively to documenting African American life, history, and culture. Leave the sights of the city behind in the afternoon and travel along Skyline Drive, the main scenic drive to Shenandoah National Park. Enjoy spectacular views of the park’s colorful scenery before arriving at your hotel, the historic Skyland Lodge. In the evening, you can relax and soak up the breathtaking view of the Shenandoah Valley.
Day 3
Shenandoah National Park
Start your day immersed in the beauty of nature with a gentle stroll along the Rocky Mountain Trail. Stony Man is part of the iconic Appalachian Trail and offers some of the best views in Shenandoah National Park, so get your camera ready. Visit famous vineyards and Veritas winery for wine tasting and farmhouse lunch. Sip signature wines and relax on the sun deck with breathtaking views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Later, head to New River Gorge National Park and your resort hotel for an evening of rest.
Day 4
Exploring New River Gorge National Park
Today, explore New River Gorge National Park, the newest park in America’s national park system, covering more than 70,000 acres of land. Visit the Canyon Rim Visitor Center to learn all about the park’s history, flora and fauna. Then, take a stroll along the scenic boardwalk for great views of the New River Gorge and the New River Bridge. The rest of the day is free to enjoy the park and hotel facilities at your leisure. Guests can also take an optional guided bridge walk to learn the history of the longest single-arch bridge in the Western Hemisphere.
Day 5
A celebration of music and food in Asheville, North Carolina
Head to Asheville this morning and unleash your inner musician with a tour of the famous Citizen Vinyl Record Press Factory. Learn the history of the label and factory, get an inside look at how their record pressing operation works, and see the original WWNC radio station and studio. Later, get a real taste of Asheville on a walking food tour. Take a seat at some of the most elegant, trendy and established tables in this foodie favorite to experience a variety of flavours, cuisines, local produce and drinks.
Day 6
Biltmore Estate
Enjoy a leisurely start before visiting the magnificent Biltmore Estate, the largest private home in America. Tour the magnificent home and explore the lush gardens and arboretum. Uncover the stories of the Vanderbilt family, guests and staff through intriguing displays of vintage clothing, accessories, art and furniture. The afternoon is at your leisure to explore Asheville. Maybe try a famous craft beer? Guests can also opt for an additional River Arts District tour experience. Visiting some of the working studios where local artists create and display their work, this tour offers a unique insight into the creative culture.
Day 7
Great Smoky Mountains National Park
Head to the Great Smoky Mountains through the Blue Ridge Parkway, one of the most beautiful drives in America. En route, visit the Okonalufti Indian Village, a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experience. Here, join a Cherokee cultural expert on an interactive journey through Cherokee lifestyle and history. Upon arrival at Great Smoky Mountains National Park, discover the importance of agriculture to the park’s ecosystem by visiting the Mountain Farm Museum. See how families lived centuries ago through their unique collection of farm buildings. Enjoy a delicious and scenic picnic lunch before heading to your hotel. Enjoy spectacular views with stops along the way, including Newfound Gap, which dramatically straddles the North Carolina-Tennessee state line. The rest of the day is at your leisure.
Day 8
Appalachian Museum and on to Nashville
After a quiet start, step back in time with a visit to the Appalachian Museum. Wander through the original buildings of this vibrant mountain village and learn about the people of Appalachia through the many artifacts and stories they left behind. Enjoy a full country lunch in Southern Appalachia and enjoy authentic traditional bluegrass music from The Museum of Appalachia Band. Then head to Nashville and experience Music City on a sightseeing tour. Visit scenic Riverfront Park, the Tennessee State Capitol, and the 132-acre Centennial State Park, where you’ll find an exact replica of the Parthenon. Pass the bustling city horns and Broadway street performers on your way to the Ryman Auditorium, the former and original home of the Grand Ole Opry.
Day 9
Welcome to Music City
Explore Nashville this morning with Insight Choice. Choose to visit the National Museum of African American Music, celebrating the central role African Americans play in creating America’s soundtrack. Also, visit Mammoth Cave National Park and explore its complex cave system with a guide. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Perhaps take a stroll down Broadway to enjoy the live music and atmosphere. Tonight, toast your travels at a celebratory dinner and enjoy timeless Southern hospitality at a local restaurant.
Day 10
Departure from Nashville
Say goodbye to Nashville at your leisure this morning as your trip comes to an end.
