The Splendor of Maine

Day 1: Maumee, OH

The colorful landscapes of the eastern seaboard are calling as we set out on our adventure. Traveling eastward toward the Atlantic, we make a delightful lunch stop in Chicago’s Little Italy, where guests can savor authentic Italian cuisine and enjoy the neighborhood’s charming atmosphere. Afterward, we continue our journey, taking in the changing scenery from rolling farmland to bustling towns. Our first overnight will be in Toledo, Ohio, where we settle in for a restful evening and prepare for the journey ahead.

Day 2: Syracuse, NY

We continue our journey east, making a memorable picture stop at Niagara Falls. Take a few moments to absorb the sights and sounds of these majestic waterfalls, with breathtaking views stretching across to Canada. After capturing the perfect photos, we head to Buffalo, New York, for lunch at the original Anchor Bar, where guests can enjoy the legendary meal that made this iconic restaurant famous. After lunch, we resume our journey, enjoying the scenic landscapes as we make our way toward New England for the next stage of the adventure.

Day 3: Ogunquit, ME

Welcome to Vacationland! Today we journey across the southern portion of New England, making our way to Cape Neddick for a stop at Maine’s southernmost lighthouse. Take in the picturesque coastal views and refreshing salt air as you explore this iconic landmark. Continuing onward, we arrive at our hotel in Ogunquit, where a wine and cheese reception awaits, providing the perfect welcome to the Maine coast. Afterward, settle into the comforts of the Meadowmere Resort, your home for the night, and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by the charm and beauty of this seaside village.

Day 4: Bath, ME

After breakfast next door to the resort, meet your local guide in Kennebunkport for a guided tour of this former shipbuilding town. Stroll along sandy beaches and rocky coastline, explore Dock Square, and admire the ornate "Wedding Cake House." See former President Bush’s summer estate and tour the seaside Franciscan Monastery, taking in the rich history and charm of this coastal village. Next, board a special 50-minute narrated lobstering cruise. Learn how Maine lobstermen make their living as traps are hauled from the ocean, while enjoying stunning coastal views past Walker’s Point, the Dark Shadows House, and Bumpkin Island, home to a year-round colony of seabirds and seals. Following the cruise, enjoy lunch on your own in Kennebunkport, with time to shop or explore at leisure. This afternoon, travel to Portland, Maine’s largest city-by-the-sea, for a guided city tour. Drive past Longfellow’s boyhood home, historic sea captain houses, and elegant Victorian mansions while overlooking the islands of Casco Bay. Your tour includes a stop at Portland Head Lighthouse, America’s most photographed lighthouse, set in scenic Fort Williams Park. Continue to Mid-Coast Maine and check into the Hampton Inn Bath, the City of Ships, for a two-night stay on the banks of the Kennebec River. The hotel features an indoor pool, and a waterfront park is just across the street in this charming New England village. A welcome reception awaits upon arrival, followed by a traditional Maine Lobster Dinner at a nearby restaurant. Alternate menu options are available for those preferring land-based fare.

Day 5: Bath, ME

After included breakfast, start the day with a narrated boat tour of Boothbay Harbor, a favorite for visitors seeking the full Maine coastal experience. Cruise past lighthouses, bustling harbors, rocky shores, and abundant sea life, taking in the charm and beauty of this picturesque town from the water. Next, visit the Boothbay Railway Village, a turn-of-the-century Maine village complex filled with railroad memorabilia, antique cars and trucks, and restored buildings to explore. Enjoy a train ride on the narrow-gauge railway and a behind-the-scenes shop tour, where you’ll learn how the historic trains are carefully restored and maintained, bringing history to life for visitors. This evening, be treated to an authentic Maine lobster bake, complete with all the fixings, while a native-born Maine storyteller entertains with local tales and legends. Vegetarian or BBQ chicken options are also available for those who prefer land-based fare. Experience the warmth, humor, and rich culture of Maine as you dine on this classic coastal feast.

Day 6: Newry, ME

After a hot breakfast, we travel to the Maine Wildlife Park, a 200-acre sanctuary home to over 30 different species of wildlife, including moose, black bears, mountain lions, porcupines, coyotes, owls, and more. Enjoy close-up encounters and learn about these majestic animals in a natural setting. Next, travel to Freeport for free time and lunch on your own. Step inside the flagship L.L. Bean store, open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, or explore the charming village and specialty shops at your leisure. This afternoon, visit the Maine Mineral & Gem Museum, where fascinating collections showcase Maine’s geological treasures, including sparkling gems, fossils, and minerals. Continue to Sunday River Resort Hotel, your mountainside retreat for the night. A welcome reception is provided upon arrival in the large fireplace lobby, setting the tone for a relaxing evening. In the early evening, enjoy a Moosin’ experience in Grafton Notch State Park, a chance to spot these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat, followed by a photo stop at the Artist’s Covered Bridge, a picturesque New England landmark. Dinner tonight is served at the resort, followed by a campfire with s’mores, sharing stories and enjoying the warmth of the evening under the mountain skies. The resort features a heated indoor/outdoor pool, fitness center, steam room and spa, outdoor hot tub, Wi-Fi, and laundry service (additional cost) for added comfort and convenience.

Day 7: Lincoln, ME

First thing after breakfast we’ll see if we can spot a moose or two on a locally-guided moose tour. Because of their massive size, moose find it easier to move about in open areas - making it fairly easy to catch sight of one if you are fortunate enough to be at the right place at the right time. They can often be spotted along logging roads, diving for meals in wet boggy areas, hanging out in gravel pits, and clip-clopping down hiking or snowmobile trails. We then pass into New Hampshire’s scenic covered bridges area to make our way across the Kancamagus Highway, one of America’s most scenic routes, making picture stops along the way as we travel through the White Mountains. See waterfalls and beautiful fall color as we travel to Lincoln, New Hampshire and our Holiday Inn Express/or Indian Head Resort for the night. There is time to freshen up before a wonderful dinner highlight. Our included dinner will be on the Café Lafayette Dinner Train.

Day 8: Syracuse, NY

Today we leave the scenic East Coast and begin our journey homeward. Our first stop is Manchester Center, Vermont, where you’ll have lunch on your own and time to explore the charming village. Continuing south, we make our way to Albany, New York, for a guided tour of the New York State Capitol Building, learning about its history, architecture, and significance. After the tour, we continue to Syracuse, NY, for our overnight stay. Dinner is on your own tonight, giving you the opportunity to explore local dining options at your leisure.

Day 9

Sit back and enjoy the scenery as we continue our journey homeward. Along the way, we stop for an included lunch in Cleveland, giving everyone a chance to relax and refuel. Next, visit the one-and-only Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where you’ll see amazing displays celebrating music legends such as Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and Pink Floyd’s The Wall. Learn about the history of rock and roll and the songs that shaped generations of fans. After a day full of music, memories, and scenic travel, we spend our final overnight in Maumee, Ohio, reflecting on a remarkable journey through New England’s coast, mountains, and charming towns.

Day 10

The territory begins to look more familiar as we motor home, reflecting on memories of New England’s rocky coast, charming villages, and scenic mountains. Along the way, we pause for one final included lunch in the Shipshewana, Indiana area, giving everyone a chance to relax, savor a delicious meal, and share stories from this unforgettable journey before continuing toward home.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D =Dinner