Eastern USA & Canada Highlights - 15 Days

Welcome to New York City! Today is entirely yours, offering the freedom to start uncovering the wonders of the Big Apple at your own pace. Our accommodation is conveniently located just outside Times Square, placing you close to the city's iconic landmarks and vibrant energy.

With two full days ahead to experience New York City’s diverse attractions, you can plan your adventures whether it’s strolling through Central Park, visiting world-famous museums, or enjoying a Broadway show.

Please note: Days 1 to 3 are self-guided. On Day 4, you will join your tour leader.

Spend a full free day discovering New York City, a global hub for commerce and finance. Plan your visits to renowned landmarks like Times Square, Broadway, and the Empire State Building. Take a ferry from New York Harbour to view the majestic Statue of Liberty and enjoy one of America’s most iconic skylines. Explore Central Park and visit the Natural History Museum to complete your list of must-see attractions.

Immerse yourself in local culture with a classic New York pizza slice, a corn dog, or a cream cheese bagel. Interestingly, for nearly half a century, the cost of a subway ride has closely matched the price of a pizza slice.

Today, we delve deeper into the vibrant city of New York. Known as a leading film location, the city boasts iconic sites such as Grand Central Terminal, featured in films like Superman and The Avengers and series such as Gossip Girl.

For those inclined towards shopping, Madison Avenue offers luxury boutiques, while Union Square presents a mix of trendy shops and local eateries. If theatre is your passion, Broadway, renowned for its world-class musicals, is just a short stroll north.

As New York truly never sleeps, you can also explore its lively bar scene well into the early hours. Whatever you choose to do, New York promises unforgettable experiences.

Start your morning by meeting your tour leader and fellow travellers as we bid farewell to New York and journey towards Boston. Along the way, we will stop in Newport, Rhode Island. Originally a 17th-century port, Newport has evolved into a thriving artists' haven and remains a favourite holiday spot for many. It is also the site of the US Naval War College.

You'll have free time to explore and enjoy lunch at your leisure. Our route then takes us through Connecticut, offering glimpses of its scenic landscapes. Upon reaching Boston, we'll come together for an included dinner, providing a perfect opportunity to socialise and reflect on the day's adventures.

Begin your full day in Boston with a guided driving tour, where we’ll pass by iconic landmarks such as Faneuil Hall and Quincy Market. Afterwards, you may choose to visit the prestigious Harvard University.

Spend the rest of the day exploring Massachusetts' capital at your own pace. Opt for a hop-on hop-off bus tour for a convenient way to see top attractions. Discover charming neighbourhoods like Beacon Hill or visit Bunker Hill, home to a 221-foot monument commemorating the first battle of the American Revolution.

Today offers ample opportunity to delve into Boston's rich history and vibrant culture.

Depart Boston and journey into Canada today. Along the way, enjoy a scenic drive through the stunning White Mountain National Forest, and make a stop at Flume Gorge in New Hampshire. This natural gorge stretches 800 feet at the base of Mount Liberty, narrowing to just 12 feet at points. A convenient boardwalk guides you into the gorge and provides excellent photo opportunities.

Take some time to find a suitable lunch spot in Littleton before continuing the drive into Canada. Our first Canadian stop is Quebec City, the only walled city in the country and the location for tonight's accommodation. You can either enjoy a restful evening or explore the historic city on foot.

This morning, we embark on a guided walking tour of Quebec City, exploring the historic charm of Old Quebec, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll have the opportunity to admire the iconic Chateau Frontenac and the well-preserved Quebec fortifications, both testaments to the city's rich history.

Afterwards, you have free time to delve deeper into the city's attractions at your own pace. Alternatively, consider joining the optional afternoon excursion to Montmorency Falls. Here, you can marvel at the impressive waterfall, gain insights into native cultures at a local Indigenous site, and enjoy a tasting experience at a nearby ciderie. If you prefer, simply wander the city and let it unfold before you.

Today, we leave Quebec and head towards our next destination – Ottawa, the capital city of Canada. En route, you will have some free time in Old Montreal to savour local delicacies like poutine, a classic dish of hot chips covered in gravy and cheese curds, perfect for lunch.

On arrival in Ottawa, we'll check into the hotel before setting off on a guided walking tour. Our journey begins at Parliament Hill, an iconic location rich in Canadian political history. We'll explore some of the city's main attractions, offering a captivating glimpse into Ottawa's cultural and historical tapestry.

The tour concludes at ByWard Market, where you can capture a memorable photo with the OTTAWA sign. You are then free to enjoy dinner at one of the market's many dining options before we return to the hotel for the night.

Today, we travel to Toronto, with a stop at McDonalds Corner for breakfast. Here, we'll enjoy French toast and pancakes, accompanied by a demonstration of how maple syrup is made—one of Canada’s renowned exports. You'll learn about its production during a visit to the maple syrup farm and museum.

Upon arrival in Toronto, a city orientation tour awaits, led by our tour leader, offering insight into the bustling city centre. After settling in, the evening is yours to explore at your leisure.

What would a visit to Canada be without experiencing the iconic Niagara Falls? Today, we depart from the shores of Great Lake Ontario and head towards this world-famous natural wonder. On our journey, we'll stop at Niagara-on-the-Lake, a picturesque town known for its exceptional wineries. Here, we will sample delightful local wines, including the renowned Canadian ice wine.

Our next stop is the breathtaking Horseshoe Falls. You'll have the chance to choose how you wish to experience the falls: join an optional boat tour to feel their power up close, or opt for a helicopter ride to witness them from above.

This evening, you're free to explore the local attractions at your leisure. Whether it's wandering down Clifton Hill, trying your luck at the casinos, or experiencing the falls' evening illumination, there's plenty to keep you entertained.

Today, we venture into the United States, specifically to the vibrant city of Detroit. Known for its iconic muscle cars and as the birthplace of Motown music, Detroit has undergone a remarkable transformation following its economic challenges.

Join your tour leader on an engaging orientation drive, uncovering the city's rich history and ongoing revival. Later, you may opt for an additional walking excursion to delve deeper into the city's atmosphere, or enjoy free time exploring at your own pace.

Today, we head to Pittsburgh, but first, we stop in Cleveland, the renowned Rock 'n Roll capital of the world. In Cleveland, we visit the House of Blues and take time to enjoy lunch. This is an excellent opportunity to sample classic American fare, such as the Polish Boy, a local sandwich featuring a bun stuffed with grilled kielbasa sausage, chips, and coleslaw.

Alternatively, you might opt to explore the iconic Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, celebrating the legends of rock music.

Following our Cleveland visit, we travel to Pittsburgh. Here, we experience a ride up Mount Washington on the historic Duquesne Incline, a funicular railway in operation for over a century. At the top, we are treated to stunning views of the city and its three rivers.

After breakfast, we depart Pittsburgh for Washington D.C., the capital of the United States. Heading east, we'll begin a city tour as soon as we arrive, taking in the city's historic monuments and landmarks.

Our first stop is Arlington Cemetery, where we will visit the gravesite of President John F. Kennedy. We'll then continue exploring Washington’s attractions, including a photo opportunity at the White House and a visit to the World War II Memorial.

Once we've checked into our hotel this evening, you’ll have free time to explore the city at your leisure.

Discover the unique allure of Washington D.C. with a full day of exploration at your leisure. Begin with an orientation drive to familiarise yourself with the city, taking in sights such as the National Mall and the renowned Smithsonian Museums.

You have the option to enhance your experience by joining the Extended Washington D.C. Sightseeing Tour. This excursion delves into the city’s rich history and showcases key landmarks, including the Korean War and Vietnam Veterans memorials, alongside the Jefferson and Lincoln memorials.

Alternatively, hop on the Old Town trolley for a different perspective, visiting further iconic sites at your own pace. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the Smithsonian Museums, particularly The National Museum of Natural History, a highlight for many visitors.

Today marks the final stage of our Eastern USA & Canada tour, but there's still much to discover. We depart Washington D.C., making our way to New York via Philadelphia, where you'll have time to sample the renowned street food; a Philly cheesesteak is highly recommended!

Enjoy wandering the city at your own pace or join your tour leader for a walking tour. Key attractions include the iconic Liberty Bell, historic Independence Hall, Benjamin Franklin's grave, and the Betsy Ross House. This afternoon, we continue to New York City. Once we arrive, the tour officially concludes.