Brandywine Valley Holiday Treasures

Day 1: Maumee, OH

Join us for a one-of-a-kind, culturally rich Christmas adventure through the beautiful Brandywine Valley region. Your journey begins at your selected pick-up location, followed by our usual stops en route. We’ll enjoy a lunch break along the way before settling in for the evening at the Hampton Inn in Maumee, OH.

Day 2: Wheeling, WV

After a hot breakfast, we continue east, settling in comfortably on the motorcoach as we make our way to Dublin, Ohio for a delightful cultural experience. Our first stop is an interactive introduction to the Irish pennywhistle—also known as the Irish flute. You’ll hear a bit of its history, try playing a few notes, and even attempt a simple tune. Best of all, everyone receives their very own pennywhistle to take home as a keepsake of this fun and memorable musical moment.

With your new musical skills in hand, we’ll enjoy lunch together in Dublin, followed by an immersive and entertaining visit with the daughter of "Pat Murphy," the dearly departed guest of honor at an 1898-style Irish wake. Learn the fascinating customs and humor behind this unique Irish tradition in an engaging and lighthearted presentation.

Then, with a rest stop along the way, we travel on to our next overnight destination: the Oglebay Resort—a festive holiday retreat and home to the renowned Festival of Lights. For over 40 years, this magical celebration has delighted guests with:
• Dazzling light displays: Over a million lights spanning 300 acres.
• Family-friendly festivities: Holiday-themed crafts, photos with Santa, live entertainment, and more.
• Cozy accommodations: Relax and unwind in comfort after a joyful day.

This evening, enjoy a step-on guided tour of the Festival of Lights, followed by a festive dinner and holiday show. It’s a heartwarming evening filled with holiday spirit—perfect for making lasting memories. Rest well tonight as more seasonal delights await tomorrow!

Day 3: Wheeling, WV

As you wake and make your way to a hot breakfast, you might wonder if yesterday’s magic was just a dream—but rest assured, the enchantment continues! Lamers has even more memorable experiences in store today, beginning with an included visit to one of Brandywine Valley’s most important and picturesque landmarks: the Hagley Museum & Library.

Meet your expert step-on guide and begin your journey through history where it all began for the du Pont family in America. Nestled on 235 scenic acres along the rushing Brandywine River, Hagley is the original site of the du Pont family’s first home and black powder mills—the foundation of an industrial legacy that would shape generations to come. Walk among restored buildings, stone ruins, and the elegant ancestral home and gardens that bring this fascinating story to life. This stop truly puts your entire Brandywine experience into meaningful context—a highlight for any group.

The holiday spirit continues with a perfect blend of Yuletide charm and woodland wonder. Step inside the beautifully decorated mansion to admire dazzling Christmas trees and an enormous, whimsical gingerbread house. You’ll also have the chance to view entries from the 8th Annual Gingerbread House Contest—each one more creative than the last. Outdoors, enchanting lights and seasonal décor inspired by the Winterthur woodlands await, creating a magical atmosphere that delights all ages.

After a locally loved dinner (included), we cap off this unforgettable day with a visit to the world-renowned Longwood Gardens. Stroll along outdoor paths glowing with hundreds of thousands of twinkling lights, then step into the warmth of the conservatories to marvel at the breathtaking holiday displays—each one more awe-inspiring than the last. Longwood’s extraordinary gardens are consistently ranked among the best in the nation, and tonight, you'll see why.

Let the lights warm your heart and the beauty of the season surround you—this is holiday magic at its finest.

Day 4: Lancaster, PA

Today we journey to Eden Resort & Suites, our beautiful home for the night in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. But before we arrive, there’s much to explore!

We begin with a step-on guided tour through Lancaster’s Amish Country, venturing along the “Roads Less Traveled” that wind through the heart of the Amish farmlands. Take in the peaceful, pastoral scenery as we travel past pristine farms, horse-drawn plows, one-room schoolhouses, windmills, and even traditional Amish “phone booths.” It’s a glimpse into a way of life that honors simplicity, tradition, and timeless beauty.

For lunch, we’re welcomed into the home of an Amish family for a delicious included traditional meal—a truly special and authentic experience that invites you to break bread and share stories in a warm, family-style setting.

After lunch, we bid farewell to our guide and make our way to the renowned Sight & Sound Theatre for a spectacular performance of NOAH. This awe-inspiring show brings the biblical story to life like never before—complete with live animals, soaring music, and immersive staging. Step aboard the enormous ark and witness one of the world’s most famous journeys in this special 30th-anniversary return of a fan-favorite production. It's a theatrical experience that stirs the imagination and touches the heart.

Following the show, we return to the Eden Resort, where a bountiful dinner buffet awaits. Then, unwind and enjoy the resort’s top-notch amenities at your leisure—whether it’s relaxing in a cozy lounge, exploring the grounds, or simply savoring a quiet evening after a day filled with unforgettable moments.

Day 5: Maumee, OH

This morning, after enjoying a hearty breakfast, we begin our journey back—taking time for stretch breaks along the way. En route, we’ll make a special stop at another festive Christmas-themed home that many will recognize, adding one more touch of holiday magic to our adventure.

Later, we arrive for an evening of rest and relaxation at the Hampton Inn in Maumee, Ohio. Dinner is on your own tonight, with time to unwind and reflect on the wonderful memories made throughout this Christmastime journey.

Day 6: Home

After days filled with magical lights, heartwarming experiences, and unforgettable moments, we begin the final leg of our journey—heading home. As we travel, carry with you the joy of new friendships, cherished memories, and a deeper appreciation for the traditions and spirit of the season.

May the stories, laughter, and inspiration gathered on this Christmastime adventure bring even more meaning to your own holiday celebrations—this year and for many years to come.

B=Breakfast, CB=Continental Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner