Self-Drive Coastal New England

Day 1-3

Cape Cod, MA
Separated from the Massachusetts mainland by the world’s widest sea-level canal, the Cape is always likened in shape to an outstretched human arm bent at the elbow. At the Cape Cod 30 miles along the Atlantic beach, you rarely see a trace of human habitation, other than the lighthouses that stand watch over the Cape’s dangerous shoals and a few old shacks in the dunes of Provincetown. You may want to take a ferry to explore Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard while you’re here.
3 nights Cape Cod.
Standard: Holiday Inn, Heritage House
Select: Hyannis Resort

Day 4-5

Newport, RI (61 miles)
Travel to lovely Newport, RI today. Newport is famous for its seaside beauty and for the magnificent mansions and gardens built there by the industrial barons of America’s Gilded Age. But you don’t need to have a tiara or chauffeur to enjoy Newport’s treasures, from interesting museums to mansion tours to walks or bicycle tours along rocky coves. Newport also was host from 1930 to 1983 to the America’s Cup, the world’s premiere yacht regatta. Although the Australians wrested the Cup from the New York Yacht Club in 1983, yachting remains deeply ingrained along Newport Harbor and at the city’s Museum of Yachting.
2 nights Newport.
Standard: Howard Johnson
Select: Viking Hotel

Day 6-7

“The North Shore” (113 miles)
Discover the “North Shore” today. The 30 miles of rocky coastline north of Boston are punctuated with long sandy beaches, rugged fishing ports, and sparkling sailing harbors. Nautical lore and the ghosts of witches past offer fascinating glimpses into the region’s rich history. While here, don’t miss Salem, the home of the witch trials of the 1690s and novelist Nathaniel Hawthorne’s House of Seven Gables. The Peabody Essex Museum underwent a major expansion in 2003 and now focuses on the art and culture of New England and the world; Marblehead, one of the East Coast’s premier sailing centers. See Gloucester, a rugged fishing port, packed with work boats and seafood restaurants and a departure point for four whale watch operators; and Motif #1, a fishing shack in Rockport harbor that’s been the subject of countless paintings.
2 nights North Shore
Standard: Comfort inn
Select: Sheraton Colonial

Day 8-10

Bar Harbor (288 miles)
Spectacular scenery awaits, as you head north into Maine. Your destination is Mount Desert Island, the home of Acadia National Park and Bar Harbor. Either hike or drive to the top of Cadillac Mountain -- the highest point on the eastern seaboard -- and you’ll be the first in the country to welcome the sun. When your trek ends, head over to Bar Harbor, the island’s hub, where you’ll find more than 100 restaurants. Wander the waterfront and gaze at the 19th century mansions that tower over the water, stately reminders of the days when this small town on Frenchman’s Bay was a grand summer resort for society families. Claiming nearly two-thirds of Mount Desert Island, 47,000-acre Acadia National Park attracts 2.5 million people each year. Travelers come for the lakes, forest, coastline, and more than 300 species of birds. They come for Cadillac Mountain, and to see the only fjord on the East Coast.
3 Nights Mount Desert island
Standard: Holiday Inn Ellsworth
Select: Bar Harbor Regency

Day 11-12

Southern Maine (202 miles)
With over 30 miles of sandy beaches from Kittery to Old Orchard Beach, it’s no wonder the southern Maine coast is one of the top vacation destinations in the US. Spend days exploring historic sites and museums, shopping the endless supply of boutiques and antique stores, visiting famous lighthouses and art galleries, or just relaxing on the beautiful beaches.
2 Nights Kennebunkport area
Standard: Fairfield Inn
Select: Nonantum Inn

Day 13-14

Boston, MA (90 miles)
End your holiday in “America’s Walking City.” Famous for everything from the Red Sox and Paul Revere to Cheers and clam “chowdah,” Boston is a popular destination for so many reasons. Part history lesson, part modern metropolis, the Hub offers attractions to suit every taste and interest. Hop on the Freedom Trail, a well-preserved pedestrian path that weaves in and out of historic neighborhoods. Between landmarks, you can shop the fabulous stores on Newbury Street, have a delicious authentic Italian meal in the North End or browse the antique shops and distinctive red-brick buildings of Beacon Hill. The more culturally inclined will not want to miss the city’s world-class museums, theater and music venues. Family friendly to the core, Boston also boasts a renowned aquarium, children’s museum and science museum, making it a great getaway for all. Visit our Welcome Meeting for sightseeing and attractions at special rates.
2 Nights Boston
Standard: Sheraton Newton
Select: Boston Park Plaza

Day 15

Homeward Journey
Take time for last-minute shopping before you transfer to Logan International Airport to catch your homeward flight.