CLASSIC MID-ATLANTIC TOUR

Welcome to Washington, D.C., the nation’s capital and a haven for history and art buffs alike. On arrival at the airport, your transfer will take you to your luxurious hotel, proclaimed by President Truman to be Washington, D.C.’s ‘Second Best Address’, after the White House. At 18:00 join your Travel Director and meet fellow guests at a private Welcome Dinner with drinks, based at your hotel.

In the morning, head out for a day of learning, as you’re taught about the proud heritage of a nation. View the White House, striking Washington Monument, and sprawling National Mall. Reflect on the country’s most turbulent days at the Lincoln Memorial and the somber World War II Memorial. The rest of the day is at leisure, so if you feel like brushing up on your American history, head back to the National Mall where you’ll find an array of museums, most of which are free. These include the National Gallery of Art and National Air and Space Museum.

Depart for the now peaceful town of Gettysburg. Cannons blazing, trumpets sounding – your Local Expert will reveal it all at the site of one of the Civil War’s most pivotal battles. Just four months after the historic struggle, the battlefield was the backdrop for Abraham Lincoln’s call for ‘a new birth of freedom’ in his famed Gettysburg Address. Move on to Pittsburgh, otherwise known as the ‘City of Bridges’, and a creative hub well-known for its museums, parks, and delectable food. You will enjoy a Highlight Dinner at the award-winning, upscale eatery, LeMont, a place famous for its live music lounge and tasty food classics with a twist.

Travel to the rural town of Punxsutawney to learn first-hand about an important part of American folklore. The town is most famous for its resident groundhog, Phil. Every year he emerges from his burrow and predicts whether the U.S. will have more months of winter or an early spring, based on whether or not he sees his shadow. Meet with a member of the ‘Inner Circle’, a small group of local dignitaries and business leaders who act as Phil’s caregivers throughout the year. Cross the Canadian border to arrive at Niagara Falls, where your hotel overlooks the majestic Horseshoe Falls in all its glory. Satisfy your palate with a night of culinary delights on a Highlight Dinner at a family-owned winery. Cool down with their award-winning wines, including ice wine – a regional speciality, made from grapes that have been frozen while still on the vine. You’ll also sample some of Niagara’s local cuisine created with seasonal ingredients.

View thundering Niagara Falls during a thrilling cruise to the base of the cascades. Later, you’ll have time to relax and indulge as you browse the shops and galleries of Niagara-on-the-Lake, a place recognized for its tree-lined streets, charming old world buildings, and wineries.

Make your way to the Corning Museum of Glass, where you can learn about the art, history, culture, technology, science, craft, and design that tells the riveting story of the museum’s single material, glass. Sandblast your own keepsake before watching master artisans at work. Head to Pennsylvania’s creative centre, Lancaster, and end your day at the Lancaster Arts Hotel, which houses striking works of art from local Pennsylvania artists in every room.

Roll back in time and explore the rural back roads of Pennsylvania’s Lancaster County with a Local Expert. Learn about the fascinating, traditional agricultural lifestyle of the Amish and the Mennonites, who live much the same as they did when they first settled here over 200 years ago. Then it’s on to Pennsylvania’s largest city, Philadelphia.

Walk in the footsteps of Benjamin Franklin in the City of Brotherly Love, Philadelphia. Amid ‘America’s most historic square mile’, view Independence Hall, visit the Liberty Bell, and spend some time on your own exploring Independence National Historic Park. Follow the bright lights to New York City. Here you’ll enjoy a harbour cruise for glittering views of Manhattan’s skyline, Ellis Island, and the towering Statue of Liberty.This evening, experience a home-cooked meal and immerse yourself in local flavors with your EatWith host.

Take a bite of the Big Apple on a tour of the city’s highlights with a Local Expert. See the Empire State Building and the mirrored peak of the Art Deco Chrysler Building as you admire one of the world’s most iconic skylines. For a full view of this monumental city, ascend to the Top of the Rock – the 70th floor of the Rockefeller Building – for a sweeping view of the skyscrapers, parks, rivers and urban canyons that make up the teeming isle of Manhattan. If it’s tranquillity you’re after, relish the calm of Central Park, an expansive space designed by renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted. At night, join your Travel Director for a lively Celebration Dinner at Bond 45.

It’s time to say goodbye to the Empire State. A morning transfer will take you to JFK International, LaGuardia Airport or Newark Liberty International Airport for your flight home. Alternatively, if you would like to see more of New York, extend your stay at your own pleasure.