Sun, Jun 2: After arriving in Norfolk, Virginia you ship out. Well, not quite, but while touring the Nauticus — a modern maritime museum located in Norfolk’s harbor — you’ll get a chance to explore the six-star, Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest and last battleships built by the U.S. Navy. After doing battle and earning five stars in World War II, one star for her efforts in the Korean War, and commendation for service during the first Gulf War, Battleship Wisconsin was restored and berthed at Nauticus. Not only can you explore Navy life on board and grab a bite to eat, but you can peruse the museum and its interactive and informative exhibits and shops. Disembark and be swept away to the natural beauty of Outer Banks, North Carolina — America’s first beach. Two-hundred miles of barrier islands offer wild landscape and history for you to explore. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner. (Meals: Lunch, Dinner)

Mon, Jun 3: This morning start your exploration in Corolla; that’s “Car-rah-la,” if you want to pronounce it like the locals. Known for its beautiful beaches and small-town beach community, you’ll still find an air of sophistication when touring the 39 acres that is home to the historic Whalehead Club. Learn about the wealthy Pennsylvanian residents that built their home in the 1920’s and how it transformed over the years. Enjoy some free time and grab a bite to eat at one of the many open-air restaurants throughout the charming beachside town. Walk the grounds of the Currituck Beach Lighthouse or challenge yourself to climb to the top of the distinctive, exposed brick lighthouse. Complete the afternoon with a Wild Horse Safari where catching a ride on a 4×4 down the beach allows glimpses of Colonial Spanish Mustangs roaming freely in their seaside environment. Return to the hotel to enjoy the evening at your leisure. (B)

Tue, Jun 4: A scenic drive along the Cape Hatteras National Seashore takes you through marshlands, forests, and of course, graceful dunes and serene oceanfront. Along the way, stop at the Bodie Island Lighthouse and see the black and white horizontal stripes rising 150 feet high and topped with a first-order Fresnel lens. Standing at 208 feet tall and candy-striped in black and white, the Cape Hatteras Lighthouse is picture perfect while protecting a treacherous part of the Outer Banks. Hop on a ferry to Ocracoke Island for a chance to slow down, watch the birds or sea life, stroll through the village and enjoy some ice cream, and explore the one square mile quaint town and its lighthouse. (B,L)

Wed, Jun 5: On the way to Roanoke Island, stop at the Wright Brothers Monument in Kitty Hawk celebrating the historic accomplishment of Wilbur and Orville Wright in 1903 when they flew inches above the Outer Banks beach. Continue south to the charming and historic village of Manteo for lunch and exploration on your own. Take a jaunt around the historic Roanoke Island Festival Park where examples of early life are seen including the Elizabeth II, a 69‐foot sailing vessel that carried explorers in 1585. After dinner, attend a production of the famous The Lost Colony, which recounts the history of the area and features over 100 actors at an outdoor amphitheater located on the site of the original Roanoke Colony. (B,D)

Thu, Jun 6: Return to Norfolk and depart for Indianapolis. (B)

Hilton Garden Inn, Outer Banks/Kitty Hawk.

This cozy, coastal hotel is located just steps from the beach. Enjoy close proximity to restaurants, shops, and the fishing pier. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator, microwave • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • indoor/outdoor pool • fitness center.