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7-Day East Coast Highlights: New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Niagara Falls & Boston

7-Day East Coast Highlights: New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Niagara Falls & Boston

Pack a week’s worth of American firsts into seven days: Manhattan skylines, Independence Hall, the monuments of Washington, the roar of Niagara Falls and Harvard’s ivy-strewn quads. This small-group van tour balances curated stops with on-the-road convenience.

New York, NY
7 days
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Book optional attractions early

One World Observatory, Maid of the Mist and Liberty Cruise are optional but popular—reserve them when you book to secure entry windows.

Pack light and smart

One carry-on-sized suitcase is allowed—use a soft-sided bag for easier van storage and bring a small daypack for daily essentials.

Prepare for long driving stretches

Some transfer days are 3–5 hours; bring motion-sickness medication, snacks, and headphones for comfort.

Weather at Niagara is wet

Expect spray and cooler temperatures near the falls—waterproof outer layers and quick-dry clothing are useful.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • Gantry Plaza Park (Long Island City) for a quieter skyline view
  • Niagara Whirlpool State Park overlook—less crowded and shows the river’s raw power

Wildlife

  • Bald eagle (seen around Lake Ontario and Niagara)
  • White-tailed deer in upstate roadside woodlands

Conservation Note

Niagara Falls and surrounding parks are managed for visitor safety and ecosystem protection; stick to marked paths and avoid feeding wildlife to minimize human impact.

The itinerary threads colonial history—from Boston and Philadelphia’s Revolutionary era to D.C.’s monumental story—along corridors once critical to trade and migration.

Photographer's Notes

Best times:Golden hour (sunrise/sunset), Blue hour in cities, Early morning to avoid crowds
Key viewpoints:
  • Prospect Point / Niagara Falls State Park edge for American Falls and Horseshoe views
  • One World Observatory or DUMBO waterfront for skyline shots
  • Harvard Yard or Quincy Market for historic and street scenes
Subjects to capture:Waterfalls and mist, City skylines and architectural details, Street scenes and candid portraits

What to Bring

Comfortable walking shoesEssential

Support and traction for cobblestones, museum floors, and wet paths at Niagara.

Light waterproof jacketEssential

Keeps you dry from rain and Niagara spray during cool, wet days.

Small daypackEssential

Carry camera, water, layers, and tickets during daily walks.

Power bank and charging cablesEssential

Vans have charging ports but extra battery keeps devices charged between stops.

Common Questions

Are flights included with this tour?

No—airfare is not included; the tour provides complimentary airport pick-up at JFK and LGA on the first day if arranged in advance.

What meals are included?

Six breakfasts are included; other meals are typically at your own expense unless specified in optional packages like the Boston lobster meal.

How much walking is required?

Expect regular walking for city tours and viewpoint access—walks range from short 20–60 minute guided segments to longer 150-minute neighborhood explorations.

Is this tour wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchair-accessible buses are not guaranteed—notify the operator in advance so they can confirm accommodations where possible.

What is the luggage limit?

Each guest may bring one carry-on-sized bag (around a 26-inch suitcase) and a small personal item to fit in the van storage.

What if an attraction is closed?

The operator will substitute alternate attractions or adjust the itinerary; no refunds are issued for changes due to closures, but guides will provide comparable experiences when possible.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

7 days

Location

New York, NY

Difficulty

easy

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers in average physical condition—expect moderate walking, stairs and cobblestones.

Free cancellation available

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7-Day East Coast Highlights: New York, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Niagara Falls & Boston - New York - Adventure Collective Travel