Self-Drive American Heritage - New York to Miami

Day 1

Fly to New York

Today, arrive in New York City, known as the Big Apple and transfer independently to your hotel.

Overnight: Hilton Garden Inn New York Times Square South or similar

Day 2

New York

A full day is yours to explore this exciting city, filled with people, famous sights, and skyscrapers. See the Statue of Liberty, Fifth Avenue, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building, The United Nations, and much more.

Overnight: Hilton Garden Inn New York Times Square South or similar

Day 3

New York – Washington, D.C.(240 Miles)

After picking up your rental car, drive southwest to Philadelphia, home of Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Ben Franklin. Your destination this evening is the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

Overnight: The Churchill Hotel or similar

Day 4

Washington, D.C.

The broad streets of America’s seat of government enhance the dramatic effect of Washington’s memorable monuments: The Lincoln Memorial, The Jefferson Memorial, and The White House. On Capitol Mall, the Smithsonian’s complex of museums is a repository for the nation’s historic treasures.

Overnight: The Churchill Hotel or similar

Day 5

Washington, D.C. – Shenandoah National Park (86 miles)

Explore Virginia's colonial an Vivil War heritage. Visit the site of the strategic Battle of Bull Run, where the historical influence of Americas' founders is reflected in its institutions and architecture. Pass by Thomas Jefferson's home in Monticello before ascending to the highlights of Shenandoah National Park for the night.

Overnight: Skyland Resort or similar

Day 6

Shenandoah National Park – Blue Ridge Parkway - Roanoke (147 miles)

Today' follow the crest of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, which in the summer have a distinctly bluish cast. Then continue along the lush, green Shenandoah Valley en-route to your destination tonight, Roanoke, Virginia.

Overnight; Holiday Inn Tanglewood or similar

Day 7

Roanoke – Great Smoky Mountains - Gatlinburg (262 Miles)

Spend full day exploring the mountain scenery while driving south along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains. In the afternoon, visit the Smoky Mountains, famous for the distinctive blue haze which clocks them, Pass through the ancestral homeland of the Cherokee Indians, en route to Gatlinburg.

Overnight: Baymont by Wyndham Gatlinburg on the River or similar

Day 8

Gatlinburg – Charleston (342 Miles)

The destination today is historic Charleston, a city perfect for walking. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic district and note its unsurpassed antebellum architecture. It was in Charleston that early shots of the Civil War were fired, starting a four-year battle that ended with the defeat of the Confederate States and the reemergence of the United States as one nation.

Overnight: Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Waterfront/ Downtown or similar

Day 9 - 10

Charleston – Savannah (105 Miles)

After leaving historic Charleston, many people choose to visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Drive south to the port city of Savannah. The historic district of Old Savannah has been beautifully restored, recreating the gracious atmosphere of the Antebellum South.

Overnight: Best Western Savannah Historic District or similar

Day 11

Savannah – St. Augustine (200 Miles)

Follow the lush, semi-tropical coastline of Georgia, and see the influence of 18th century English settlers in the charming architecture of Brunswick. Pass Jacksonville en route to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. Time this evening to wander the streets of St. Augustine and enjoy a relaxing dinner.

Overnight: Guy Harvey Resort or similar

Day 12

St. Augustine – Orlando (120 Miles)

Searching for the Fountain of Youth, Ponce de León landed here in 1513, and that eternal search continues today by sun worshippers on Florida’s beaches. Join them this morning, or explore the Spanish heritage of the city before driving south along the coast to Orlando.

Overnight: Rosen Shingle Creek Orlando or similar

Day 13

Orlando – Sarasota (150 Miles)

Enjoy explore the entertainment complex of Walt Disney World Resort – home to the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, and Disney– MGM Studios, or experience Disney’s wildest adventure yet, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park (admissions not included).

Make the short drive to the western shores of Florida and Tampa Bay, which sheltered the pirates and buccaneers of a bygone era. The stunning natural beauty of Sarasota is enhanced by the barrier islands, known as “keys,” lying just offshore.

Overnight: Sandcasle Resort Lido Beach or similar

Day 14

Sarasota - Venice – Everglades National Park - Miami (230 Miles)

Follow the Tamiami Trail and drive through the heart of the largest sub-tropical wilderness in North America, the Everglades. The watery River of Grasses is a sanctuary for a myriad of birds and animals. East of the Everglades, the sandy beaches of South Florida await you.

Overnight: Marseilles Hotel or similar

Day 15

Miami

A full day at leisure in Miami to explore South Beach or to shop at the many superb malls. Spend your last evening in Lively South Beach. Dine or dance the night away.

Overnight: Marseilles Hotel or similar

Day 16

Miami Departure

Return your rental car at the airport before your flight home