Escape to “the Cape,” the long fishhook-shaped peninsula located southeast of Boston—a dreamy summer haven for vacationers. See the sights for which the Cape is known: bustling boardwalks, lighthouses, sandy beaches, and summer cottages. Stay in Hyannis and traverse the Old King’s Highway, visiting lighthouses and stopping in Provincetown for a sand dune excursion to the “dune shacks,” where famous artists and writers have become inspired.
Experience Newport, Rhode Island with her grand mansions, which give a fascinating glimpse into Gilded Age extravagance. Visit Marble House and The Breakers, considered the grandest of Newport’s homes, both with ties to the Vanderbilt family.
Don’t forget the islands—Martha’s Vineyard, famous for its gingerbread houses, is considered a summertime playground for a long list of celebrities. Ferry to the island for the day and see why Martha’s Vineyard remains one of the most popular and picturesque destinations in New England. See Oak Bluffs, the quaint fishing village of Menemsha, and the clay cliffs of Aquinnah. Spend some time on historic Nantucket, with plenty of free time to dine, shop, and enjoy this quaint summer hot spot.
HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE
PACKAGE INCLUDES
Itinerary
Sun, Aug 22: Fly to Boston, Massachusetts. Take a leisurely drive from Boston down to Cape Cod and enjoy the coastal views along the way. Stop in Plymouth, the site of the colony founded in 1620 by the Pilgrim passengers of the famous Mayflower ship. Revisit the historical details of the original landing, then enjoy fresh seafood, ocean breezes, and spectacular views during your leisure time. Next, head to Hyannis where you’ll check in to your hotel on the harbor for the next five nights. Enjoy a delicious welcome dinner with your fellow travelers. (Meal: Dinner)
Mon, Aug 23: Today’s adventures begin with a visit to the Cape Cod National Seashore Visitor Center, which focuses on the interesting natural history of this unique area. Continue up the coast, following the lighthouse trail winding through Cape Cod as you see and hear about the outer Cape and Provincetown’s historic lighthouses. Travel the Old King’s Highway, dotted with historic Cape Cod architecture and New England inns. Enjoy free time for shopping and lunch in “P-town” before taking off on an exhilarating dune ride. Experience sand dunes stretching as far as you can see with wispy beach grass and dark green pine trees set against the stunning sky. See the “dune shacks” where famous artists and writers found inspiration. Return to Hyannis and have the evening at leisure. (B)
Tue, Aug 24: Depart from Hyannis by ferry to the “storybook island” of Martha’s Vineyard. Upon arrival, a local guide will introduce you to several famous locations, including the breathtaking multi-colored clay cliffs of Aquinnah and the “Jaws Bridge,” along with sharing stories of the past and present of this charming island. There will be time for lunch on your own and to explore Edgartown, which boasts extraordinary views of the Atlantic and is filled with shops, eateries, and attractions. Return to Hyannis with the remainer of the evening at your leisure. (B)
Wed, Aug 25: Take a day trip to Newport, Rhode Island. After a narrated tour, spend some leisure time having lunch and shopping before visiting the Marble House mansion. Built for William and Alva Vanderbilt around 1888, it was a social and architectural landmark that set the pace for Newport’s transformation from quiet summer colony to legendary resort community. As one of the leading hostesses in Newport society, Alva Vanderbilt envisioned her home as a “temple to the arts” in America. Next, visit The Breakers, considered the grandest of Newport’s summer “cottages.” This evening, dinner is included in Newport before returning to Hyannis. (B,D)
Thu, Aug 26: Spend the day exploring the historic island of Nantucket, or you may choose to stay in Hyannis and simply relax or explore further. Take a short ferry ride to the island and enjoy plenty of free time to visit the trendy boutiques and eateries. Steeped in maritime history, Nantucket was once the whaling capital of the world. In the 1800’s whaling ships brought prosperity to the island through the trade of oil used to fuel oil lamps. The historic character of the island has been preserved through its mature trees and classic gray cedar shingled homes. After returning to Hyannis, reminisce with your fellow travelers at a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
Fri, Aug 27: This morning, enjoy a local Cape Cod experience—touring a cranberry bog! Learn about the 12-month operation along with the process of floating the cranberries at harvest time. Shop the farm stand for some cranberry treats before departing for the airport to return home. (B)
Hotel
Hyannis Harbor Hotel. Set directly on Hyannis Harbor, the hotel is centrally located and carries a quintessential New England charm. Enjoy the views from your newly renovated poolside rooms. Highlights: In-room coffee/tea maker and refrigerator • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar • outdoor pool and hot tub • indoor pool • fitness center.
Pricing
*Subject to change due to fuel surcharge
Documents Required: Valid U.S. government issued REAL I.D.
