On this affordable vacation, arrive in “The Big Apple” and venture northwest through the Pocono Mountains to upstate New York. Cross the border to the Canadian side of the Niagara River and spend two nights in beautiful Niagara Falls. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Niagara Falls, and board the Maid of the Mist for a thrilling boat ride to view the thundering waterfalls from river level. During your free time in Niagara Falls, perhaps visit the Butterfly Conservatory, Great Gorge Adventure, or Botanical Gardens, or ride the aerial cable car. Next, travel southeast through the Appalachian Mountains to the City of Brotherly Love—Philadelphia. Explore the birthplace of American independence on your Philadelphia sightseeing tour before moving on to the U.S. capital, Washington DC. Washington DC is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your tour highlights the well-known sites, such as Arlington National Cemetery and the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials. Your vacation ends with free time to explore Washington DC on your own before you head back to New York City for two nights and time to discover the city’s most popular sites.
Highlights:
Scenic Highlights:New York, Pocono Mountains, Niagara Falls, and Philadelphia.
Itinerary:
Day #1 New York City. Welcome to the “Big Apple!” Enjoy time at leisure to relax or to do some independent exploring.
Day #2 New York City. New York City is one of the world’s most exciting cities, buzzing with atmosphere and packed with fascinating sights and great shops. On today’s guided sightseeing tour, see the major attractions—Broadway, the Empire State Building, Greenwich Village, bustling Chinatown, City Hall, Wall Street, and Trinity Church. This evening, choose from the many fine restaurants the city has to offer or maybe enjoy a famous Broadway show.
Day #3 New York City–Corning–Niagara Falls. Depart Manhattan, heading northwest across New Jersey through the Pocono Mountains and into upstate New York, arriving in Corning at midday. Late this afternoon, cross the border at Rainbow Bridge and proceed to the Canadian side of the Niagara River in the province of Ontario. Spend the next two nights in beautiful Niagara Falls.
Day #4 Niagara Falls. On this morning’s sightseeing tour, behold the spectacular falls for amazing close-ups. Your afternoon is free, so consider hopping aboard the “People Mover” (local transport) to visit attractions such as the Butterfly Conservatory, Great Gorge Adventure, Botanical Gardens, and Niagara Parks Greenhouse, or maybe ride the aerial cable car. (CB)NOTE:Operation of the Maid of the Mist cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. When weather is unfavorable, a walking tour through the scenic tunnels will be substituted.
Day #5 Niagara Falls–Philadelphia. Head southeast through the Appalachian Mountains and into the Susquehanna River Valley. Then, on to the handsome city of Philadelphia for an overnight stay. (CB)
Day #6 Philadelphia–Washington DC Area. The birthplace of American independence, the “City of Brotherly Love” is steeped in history. Your morning orientation tour focuses on the historic landmarks, then on to the U.S. capital and seat of government, Washington DC, for a 2-night stay. Later, join the optional outing, featuring dinner followed by a tour of the city’s most famous monuments and memorials.
Day #7 Washington DC Area. The nation’s capital is a sightseeing treasure trove, and your half-day tour with a Local Guide features the Korean, Vietnam, and National WWII Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, and other well-known sights. Stop for photos at the White House and Capitol Hill. The afternoon is free. Your Tour Director will suggest independent activities for exploring this fascinating city.
Day #8 Washington DC. Continue by motorcoach into New York City and check into the Excelsior Hotel for the next two nights.
Day #9 New York City. Stay a little longer in the Big Apple and discover the sights this amazing city has to offer. During your free time in Manhattan, take advantage of several optional activities, such as a helicopter flight over “the city that never sleeps,” a ride up to the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, or a Manhattan harbor cruise. Your local host can help arrange these and other excursions, as well as offer useful shopping and dining tips.
Day #10 New York City. The trip ends today with guests departing on individual schedules. Airport transfers are provided to Kennedy, LaGuardia, or Newark International Airports.
Hotels:
NEW YORK CITY Excelsior Hotel (MF)
NIAGARA FALLS Michael’s Inn Fallsview (F)
PHILADELPHIA Holiday Inn Historic District Philadelphia (F)
WASHINGTON DC AREA Crowne Plaza Old Town Alexandria (F)