New York, Niagara & Pennsylvania

Day 1
Philadelphia Arrival

Depart London Heathrow – 12:45
Arrive Philadelphia – 15:35
Journey Time – 7 hours 50 minutes

Arrive into Philadelphia where you will pick up your rental vehicle and drive just 20 minutes to your centrally located downtown hotel.

Philadelphia, the birthplace of American Independence and home of the Liberty Bell, is full of history drawing millions of visitors every year to follow the walking trail through Independence National Historical Park. The city, also a major port, has many fine museums, parks and gardens and a lively cultural scene… You have a busy day ahead of you tomorrow!

Overnight – Philadelphia

Hotel:
Morris House Hotel

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Day 2
Philadelphia

A full day in Philadelphia for seeing the sights. The City of Brotherly Love is the birthplace of the United States of America. Once you have seen the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, and Independence Hall, you can explore the city’s myriad artistic and cultural offerings. Museums, exhibits, and parks present everything from Rodin to Robert Indiana, and symphonies, dance companies, theatrical groups, and pro sports teams ensure there’s an activity to keep you busy. When it’s time for a bite – why not try a cheese steak, shop at the Italian Market, check out the funky scene along South Street, or visit one of Philadelphia’s many fine restaurants. This really is one of America’s great cities.  Enjoy the pace, the diversity, the food, neighbourhoods and the world renown attractions – it’s all here.

Overnight – Philadelphia

Hotel:
Morris House Hotel

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Day 3
Philadelphia to Lancaster
65 miles

Visitors love to go to Amish Country, to experience the slower pace of life and simple living.  The traditions of the Amish in Lancaster County date back to the 1720s when the Old Order Amish, the “Plain People” fled religious persecution in Europe.  Most Amish are not Dutch at all.  The word is shortened from Deutsch, which is German.  Today, the most common bond in central Pennsylvania is German heritage, although, there are also Swiss, French, English, Welsh and Scottish Amish.  Holding dear traditional values, they stress humility, family, community and separation from the world.  Not actually stuck in history, the Amish do change. They just examine it carefully before they accept it.

Because we believe that the heritage of the Amish and Lancaster County are rare treasures, we work to deliver information that lets you explore the true byways and backroads that illustrate the most authentic and traditional way of life. You’ll enjoy the quiet serenity of these crisp, immaculately kept areas, and an opportunity to leave the region refreshed and renewed in spirit.  Plan to enjoy the unique food of the Amish, the culture and quaint villages. There’s also antique shopping, craft displays and heritage centers.

Overnight – Lancaster

Hotel:
Fulton Steamboat Inn

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Day 4
Lancaster to Gettysburg
67 miles

Gettysburg is famous as the site of the biggest battle of the Civil War – it was here that Lincoln delivered his Gettysburg Address, and generations of schoolchildren have grown up learning the significance of this small Pennsylvania town.

You can almost hear the drums of war beating within the stilling silence of the land at Gettysburg where the fate of America was changed forever. The landscape has been preserved to tell the story of war, yet honour the soldiers who fought valiantly for their cause.  It was at Gettysburg that the leaders of both the Union and Confederate armies who would ultimately play out the Civil War to its end, first met in gigantic and carefully strategised battles.  All seemed to understand that the outcome of the war would be determined on these grounds.  Whomever prevailed would be likely to conquer.  In a bold attempt to invade Washington, DC from the north, the Confederate army amassed thousands of troops ready to take DC. The Union understood that the ground had to be held at whatever cost. The totally new visitors center tells the story with a dramatic crescendo.

Overnight – Gettysburg

Hotel:
Lightner Farmhouse B&B

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Day 5
Gettysburg

Within all of its important history, Gettysburg is more than just about battles.  Founded in 1797, more than 60 years before the Civil War, the town was settled by Scots-Irish settlers on their way to the Shenandoah Valley. Original buildings from this era still stand on Lincoln Square.

Gettysburg today is heaven for history buffs, but shoppers, antique collectors, outdoors enthusiasts, and railfans can find plenty to do here as well. Walking tours give the visitor an up-close view of “the most famous small town in America.”

Overnight – Gettysburg

Hotel:
Lightner Farmhouse B&B

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Day 6
Gettysburg to Pittsburgh
191 miles

Pittsburgh, with its more industrial heritage, enjoys a beautiful location where two rivers meet to form the Ohio, attractions include many museums, the Science Centre, Pittsburgh Zoo, the National Aviary, river cruises and floating nightclubs.

After you arrive and get settled in “Steel City,” plan to take a ride on the Duquesne or Monongahela Incline to get a view of the entire area.  This perspective will let you appreciate the city’s unique topography and the confluence of the three rivers in the center of town. From the top, you’ll also see the Monongahela Bridge constructed by Pittsburgher John Roebling, who developed wire cable in 1840. Roebling is best known for his Brooklyn Bridge, spanning the East River in New York. You’ll also be able to see the Westinghouse building in East Pittsburgh from which the first commercial radio signal was transmitted on Nov. 2, 1920.  This signified the birth of the first commercial radio station KDKA which continues to today.

Overnight – Pittsburgh

Hotels:
Inn on the Mexican War Streets

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Day 7
Pittsburgh

Today, why not visit the ‘Senator John Heinz Pittsburgh Regional History Centre’ – which brings Pittsburgh’s past to life – here you can also take a memorable visit to the Western Pennsylvania Sports Museum. Across the river on the North Shore is The National Aviary, with over 600 exotic birds seen in natural settings. With a view of Point State Park and downtown, Station Square features great restaurants, shopping, and more, including its unique Fountain at Bessemer Court.

Just a short drive east of downtown is the vibrant neighbourhood of Oakland. Experience The Nationality Rooms located in the inspiring Cathedral of Learning on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh. Each of the 26 rooms reflects the cultural heritage of Pittsburgh. The Carnegie Museums of Art and Natural History combine two world-class museums into one unforgettable visit. Discover treasures of the ancient world, then marvel at the extensive collection of art, furniture and architecture. Spend the evening in the downtown Pittsburgh Cultural District. Choose from a variety of restaurants, and then sit back and enjoy a performance of drama, music, dance, or opera in one of five theaters in the district.

Overnight – Pittsburgh

Hotels:
Inn on the Mexican War Streets

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Day 8
Pittsburgh to Niagara Falls
238 miles

Even repeat visitors to Niagara Falls thrill to the thunder and roar as six million cubic feet of water falls over the rocks every minute.  In fact, the Falls have been thrilling visitors since 1820.  Sam Patch, The Yankee Leaper, began the long tradition of daredevils trying to go over the Falls in 1829.  Visitors have enjoyed the view in the whirlpools beneath the Falls on the Maid of the Mist since 1846.  Join the millions of travellers who every year are awed by the sights and sounds of magnificent Niagara Falls and don’t miss the illumination at night!

Overnight – Niagara Falls

Hotel:
Giacomo Boutique Hotel

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Day 9
Niagara Falls

Spend one more day exploring this Natural Wonder of the World or go beyond the falls to explore two more of Niagara Falls area very distinctive sides. Lewiston is a quaint town with shops and restaurants, where you will feel like you have moved back in time.  Downtown Niagara Falls is only a very short drive from Lewiston bustling with visitors and commerce, it could not be more different.  Historic Old Fort Niagara was under the control of British as well as American troops during the Revolutionary War.

Overnight – Niagara Falls, NY

Hotel:
Giacomo Boutique Hotel

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Day 10
Niagara Falls to Trumansburg (Finger Lakes)
156 miles

The Finger Lakes region of upstate New York is well known for stunning scenery, expansive lakes, gorges, waterfalls and scenic wine trails. There are outdoor recreational and sports activities for each of our four beautiful seasons. Enjoy golfing, hiking, nearby waterfalls, birding, boating, swimming and lake cruises

When you reach the Finger Lakes region, try to make as many of the “must-sees” as possible. MacKenzie-Childs, Ltd, located on a picturesque farm on Cayuga Lake, produces beautiful hand-decorated ceramics and home furnishings. Letchworth State Park, known as the Grand Canyon of the East, covers 14,000 acres along the majestic Genesee River.  Scenery and waterfalls unfold throughout the gorge.  Watkins Glen State Park has a descending stream that cascades 400 feet down past 200 foot high cliffs.  The Strong National Museum of Play has fun for all ages.  Chemung County has become known as the “Soaring Capital of America.” You can take a sail plane into the skies while enjoying some of New York’s best views.

Overnight – Trumansburg

Hotels:
Halsey House

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Day 11
Finger Lakes

The lush waters of the New York Finger Lakes region are different than Niagara Falls, but no less beautiful. There are no less than 28 wineries in Seneca County alone and several New York Wine Trails crisscross the region.  World-renowned chefs and famous winemakers come together to share their secrets at the New York Wine and Culinary Center, located in Canandaigua.

Wine tasting is a favorite pastime of visitors, who return often to replenish their collections. There are outdoor recreational and sports activities for each four beautiful seasons. Enjoy golfing, hiking, nearby waterfalls, birding, boating, swimming and lake cruises

Overnight – Trumansburg

Hotels:
Halsey House

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Day 12
Finger Lakes to New York
226 miles

Today you will leave the beautiful scenery of Upstate New York – for your destination, the one & only, New York City! Your first job is to return your rental car to the depot at Newark Airport (This eliminates the hassle of driving in busy Manhattan – where a car would be more of a hindrance than a help!). Take a cab (a yellow metered taxi will cost approx $45 – this is not included in your prepaid holiday cost) to your hotel in midtown Manhattan.

New York City – the place where global cultures and high society meet, a thriving, bustling, contemporary metropolis, the centre of world finance, and one of the most unique and interesting cities in the world.  There’s really no place like it! …Your first time in New York?  Lucky you!  Your first impression will undoubtedly be of the impressive skyline, with the Empire State Building reigning supreme at 10,050 feet, announcing the city’s stature as the “capital of the capitalist world.”

New York City is home to America’s famous landmarks — the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Centre with it’s Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Central Park, Madison Avenue, the Miracle Mile of Museums and more. In order to maximise your time in the city, you may want to purchase a ‘3 Day New York Explorer Pass’ that provides discounts for 16 major New York attractions. The choices include a City Lights Evening Cruise, a Hop-On Hop-off Double Decker Downtown Bus Tour, an NBC studio tour, as well as other major attractions.

Overnight – New York City

Hotel:
The Ivy Terrace B&B

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Day 13
New York City

Today art lovers can risk sensory overload at the Metropolitan Museum of Art with 2 million works of art from around the world and the Museum of Modern Art, dedicated exclusively to contemporary art. History buffs should be sure to tour the American Museum of Natural History where there is always something new to see. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum holds another fascinating story. Travellers who have visited New York before can get off the beaten path. We can fill your Personal Travel Portfolio with wonderful, but little known attractions like the Cloisters, the medieval collection of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and some wonderful gardens. In fact, there are enough great gardens to spend your entire visit in New York outdoors.

Overnight – New York City

Hotel:
The Ivy Terrace B&B

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Day 14
New York City

Today why not take the ferry from Battery Park to Liberty and Ellis Islands – you can still feel the thrill that generations of newcomers felt after their arduous voyage across the ocean as you enjoy the stunning view of Manhattan from across the water.  Visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum to learn more and be impressed by Lady Liberty who symbolises “the Land of the Free and the Home of the Brave.”

Don’t forget about Broadway and Lincoln Centre for evening entertainment.

Overnight – New York City

Hotel:
The Ivy Terrace B&B

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Day 15
Depart from New York

Today you have plenty of time before your evening flight home, so make sure you’ve ticked off all those attractions from your ‘Manhattan Must See’ list. Then take a cab to JFK airport (a yellow metered taxi will cost approx $45 – this is not included in your prepaid holiday cost) before catching your non-stop flight back to the U.K.

Depart New York – 21:30
Arrive London Heathrow – 08:05 (Next Day)
Journey time – 6 hours 35 minutes

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Your holiday includes

• Scheduled Flights
• UK & US Airport taxes
• Accommodation – 14 nights
• Compact car rental based on Hertz – 14 day rental
• Exclusive travel documentation portfolio including personalised maps, itinerary and driver directions along with all applicable tickets and vouchers.

Additional Experiences

Our holidays are completely tailored to suit you. We would be happy to help you choose from a vast array of additional experiences that will enhance your North America holiday adventure.

These might include:

There are many more, often quite unique to your chosen destination so please do ask.