I am happily looking for to saying GOODBYE to summer as I do not like the heat or humidity. I am gladly looking forward to the fall season and the crisp fall weather. However, I know I am not like everyone, and many or sad that summer is ending and want to extend it as long as they can. Why not do an end of summer tour right here in the US? I found this fun-looking 8-day tour through Trafalgar where you will spend time in NYC, Niagara Falls, and Washington DC. FYI, this trip does take you to Canada so you can see both sides of the falls, so you will need a passport. Here are the details. (from Trafalgars website)
Tour
This end of summer tour kicks off in politically charged Washington DC and ends in the city that never sleeps, New York, this 8-day trip is the ideal blend of unique cultures, natural phenomenons, and blockbuster icons. See the White House, Empire State Building, and high-flying Wall Street, learn about the Amish way of life as you travel through Pennsylvania, and feel the full force of mighty Niagara Falls as you cross the border into Canada. If variety is what you’re looking for, this trip is the one for you.
Day 1
Arrive in Washington, D.C. (2 Nights)
Welcome to Washington, America’s capital city and the seat of political power. Fast-paced, politically charged, and culturally revered, ‘DC’ is the place you’ve seen a thousand times on screens small and large. Boasting arguably America’s finest collection of museums, a vibrant Waterfront area, and memorials to many of the nation’s greats, you’ve certainly chosen an iconic spot to kick off your adventure. After settling into your hotel you’ll meet up with your Travel Director this afternoon, then why not pay a visit to bustling Georgetown for a wander around the shops and restaurants?
Hotel – Courtyard Washington DC/U.S. Capitol
Day 2
Washington DC Sightseeing and Free Time
Today’s all about unearthing the political and cultural highlights of this high-flying city. You’ll kick things off with a sightseeing tour that will feel more like a walk through a real-life movie set, visiting icons including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the jewel in America’s political crown, the White House. With the rest of the day to explore as you please, the question is really where to start? Perhaps treat your cultural side to an afternoon spent browsing the museums of the Smithsonian Institution, or choose experiences like visiting George Washington’s sprawling Mount Vernon Estate. This evening we then have another Optional Experience, Washington Illumination Tour, where you’ll see DC’s most famous monuments lit up in their nighttime glory.
Day 3
Washington, D.C. – Lancaster
Today you’ll travel back in time as we reach Pennsylvania Dutch farm country, home to America’s oldest and largest settlement of Amish people. Spot farmers working the fields with their horses and manual tools and traditional horse and buggies passing you by as you take in the beautiful rural surroundings. We’ll then meet up with a Local Specialist who will share all about the ‘plain’ lifestyle of the Amish community, who live without cars, televisions, mobile phones or modern-day appliances. You could choose to try out the traditional buggy for yourself on a ride through the back roads or join in on an Amish family-style dinner at Good ‘n’ Plenty, serving authentic Pennsylvania Dutch meals since 1969.
Hotel – Lancaster Marriott at Penn Square
Day 4
Lancaster – Niagara Falls, Canada (2 Nights)
Traveling northwest today, you’ll journey along the surging Susquehanna River as you cross the western region of New York State. Passing through the Appalachian Mountains and no doubt in utter awe of the scenery around you, bear in mind that this mountain range is one of the oldest on earth, formed around 480 million years ago and spanning the border between the USA and Canada.
Hotel – Best Western Plus Cairn Croft
Day 5
Niagara Falls Sightseeing and Free Time
This morning you’re off to visit a natural phenomenon, Niagara Falls! The biggest falls in North America, an incredible 750,000 gallons of water thunder into the gorge below every second. We’ll be getting you up close on a cruise to Horseshoe Falls, allowing you to see both the Canadian and American sides. Remember that raincoat? Now’s the time to use it.
Day 6
Niagara Falls – New York City (2 Nights)
Bidding a fond farewell to Niagara Falls this morning, you’ll journey back across the border through leafy and picturesque upstate New York. Passing by the fun to pronounce Poconos Mountains, which literally means creek between two hills, you’ll make your way into the lush farmlands of New Jersey. Sprawling McMansions, tall pine forests, and miles upon miles of coastline will keep you entertained as you venture towards the fast and fabulous metropolis of NYC. Arriving late afternoon and no doubt itching to explore, why not spend your first night here getting acquainted with the city’s foodie scene? From gourmet food trucks to Michelin Star restaurants, the city that never sleeps ensures you’ll never go hungry.
Hotel – Holiday Inn New York City – Times Square
Day 7
New York City Sightseeing and Free Time
We hope you’re hungry for breakfast as you’re heading to an NYC institution, the Brooklyn Diner for an iconic breakfast. Fuel up on classic eggs and bacon, bagels, and coffee, then head out with our Local Specialist to discover New York through their eyes with the secrets behind some of Manhattan’s most iconic sites including Broadway and fast-paced Wall Street. You’ll end your tour with insider stories to share with friends back home. This afternoon, it’s all about discovering New York, your way. Head over to trendy Brooklyn, catch a show on Broadway or take your own bite out of the Big Apple with our tantalizing list of Optional Experiences. With choices like the Top of the Rock or a tasty tour of the city’s food carts, you’re sure to create your perfect afternoon.
Included Meals – Iconic Breakfast
Day 8
Depart New York City
With fond memories of spectacular waterfalls, political icons, and delicious icewine still fresh in your mind, your end of summer tour will come to an end this morning. Why not head out for one final cream cheese bagel and stroll around Central Park before heading to the airport, or if you’re not ready to say goodbye just yet, why not extend your stay at the Holiday Inn New York City – Times Square for a few more days. In a city as varied and wonderful as New York, you’re never short of new things to discover.