8 days Islands of New England ( Summer 2018 )
New England’s miles of sandy beaches, majestic coasts, and rolling surf invite relaxation. The Islands of New England tour spends eight days exploring New England’s charms, from the cobblestone streets of Nantucket to a dry harvest cranberry bog. Step back in time at Plimoth Plantation to sample traditional recipes from that period, learn some Pilgrim etiquette and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast where you’ll learn to “eat like a Pilgrim.” In Provincetown, the choice is yours – set out on a whale watch cruise or embark on a scenic adventure through the iconic sand dunes of the Cape. Visit Boston and Providence, the Gilded Age mansions of Newport, the lively artist colony of Provincetown, and the beautiful islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Complete your New England experience as you indulge in a traditional seafood and lobster feast.
| Day | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Providence, Rhode Island - Tour Begins | Discover the natural beauty that lies along the shores of New England. Come to know its coastal charm, friendly people and fresh-from-the-sea cuisine. Your tour opens in Providence, the capital of Rhode Island. Hilton Providence |
| 2 | Providence - Newport - Providence | Tour Providence, “America’s Renaissance City.” See prestigious Brown University and learn about the city’s vibrant art, cultural, and culinary scenes. Then depart for Newport. Return to America's Gilded Age as you traverse breathtaking Ocean Drive en route to Bellevue Avenue. Lined with extraordinary 19th-century summer "cottages," this road is home to seven mansions designated National Historic Landmarks. It’s your choice! Explore stunning Marble House built by Mr. and Mrs. William K. Vanderbilt and modeled after the Petit Trianon at Versailles. Or, tour Rosecliff, the opulent former residence of silver heiress Theresa Fair Oelrichs known for her lavish parties. Breakfast Hilton Providence |
| 3 | Providence - Boston, Massachusetts - Providence | Travel north to the historic city of Boston. Come to know Boston’s Yankee charm during a tour that highlights Beacon Hill, the Old South Meeting House, Boston Public Garden, the historic North End, Old North Church, the USS Constitution and Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Enjoy some leisure time to stroll along part of the famed Freedom Trail, a walking path showcasing the city's historic sites; or, perhaps further explore the lively marketplace at Faneuil Hall. Breakfast Hilton Providence |
| 4 | Providence - Plymouth, Massachusetts - Cape Cod | Delve into rural life as you tour a New England cranberry bog and learn about dry harvesting. Then, step back in time with a stop in the celebrated town of Plymouth where the Pilgrims landed in 1620. Experience the days of the Pilgrims with a visit to Plimoth Plantation, a re-creation of a 17th-century village. Today’s lunch teaches you how to “eat like a Pilgrim.” Sample recipes from that time, learn some Pilgrim etiquette, and enjoy a Thanksgiving feast with your fellow travelers. Later, arrive at your beachfront hotel for a 4-night stay. Breakfast & Lunch Sea Crest Beach Hotel |
| 5 | Cape Cod - Martha’s Vineyard - Cape Cod | A ferry ride transports you to the island of Martha’s Vineyard. Known for visits by presidents and royalty, this summer home of many artists, writers and celebrities is full of surprises. A local guide will show you all the highlights of "the Vineyard"—as the locals call it—including quaint gingerbread-styled cottages and a once-famous whaling port resplendent with sea captain’s homes and widow’s walks. Later, cruise back to Cape Cod. Tonight, enjoy a traditional New England experience as you indulge in a seafood and lobster feast. Breakfast & Dinner Sea Crest Beach Hotel |
| 6 | Cape Cod - Provincetown - Cape Cod | Travel to Provincetown, located on the tip of the Cape. This lively artist colony remains famous for its crafts and bright seagoing flair. Then, the choice is yours! Set out on a whale watch cruise taking you to Cape Cod Bay in search of these magnificent creatures. Or, perhaps you’d prefer a scenic adventure through the iconic sand dunes of the Cape. Breakfast Sea Crest Beach Hotel |
| 7 | Cape Cod - Hyannis - Nantucket - Cape Cod | Catch a glimpse of the Camelot era in Hyannisport, home of the Kennedy compound, and visit the poignant Kennedy Memorial. Next, set off by high-speed ferry to explore the idyllic island of Nantucket. From its cobblestone Main Street to its beaches and lighthouses, this place truly lives up to its reputation. During time at leisure you may meander the waterfront where sailboats and yachts sway in the harbor or shop for a famous Nantucket basket. Tonight, enjoy a wonderful farewell dinner and chef-led demonstration highlighting a local specialty. Breakfast & Dinner Sea Crest Beach Hotel |
| 8 | Cape Cod - Tour Ends | Your tour comes to a close, leaving you with many fond memories. Breakfast |