NYC: Philly, DC, & Niagara Falls, NY 3-Day Trip with Hotel

Escape the city that never sleeps and embark on an unforgettable three-day adventure! This whirlwind tour whisks you away from New York City to explore the historical gems of Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., before culminating in the breathtaking spectacle of Niagara Falls. Your journey includes comfortable round-trip transportation and convenient hotel accommodations, allowing you to relax and fully immerse yourself in the experience. Get ready for a trip packed with iconic landmarks and unforgettable memories!

**Day 1: History and Politics** Get ready for a whirlwind tour through American history and politics! We'll begin in Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence. Explore Independence National Historical Park and immerse yourself in the events that shaped a nation. Then, it's on to Washington, D.C., the nation's capital. We'll take in the iconic sights: the White House (exterior view), the U.S. Capitol Building (with an optional in-depth tour including the National Archives), and a glimpse of the Supreme Court and Library of Congress. We'll also visit the moving Lincoln Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. **Possible Itinerary Highlights:** * Philadelphia: Independence National Historical Park (approx. 30 minutes) * Washington, D.C.: U.S. Capitol (optional in-depth tour, 120 minutes), White House (exterior, 30 minutes), Lincoln Memorial & Vietnam Veterans Memorial (45 minutes) * Optional: If the U.S. Capitol is unavailable, we'll substitute with a Washington D.C. In-depth Tour, featuring the Air Force Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, and World War II Memorial (each approx. 20 minutes). **Hotel:** SpringHill Suites Gaithersburg, Comfort Inn Shady Grove – Gaithersburg – Rockville, or similar. **Day 2: Glass, Gorges, and Grand Falls** Today, we journey to western New York for a fascinating blend of art and nature. First, we'll explore the Corning Museum of Glass (optional), a captivating showcase of glassmaking history, art, and science. Next, prepare to be awestruck by Niagara Falls! We'll witness the breathtaking American Falls, Horseshoe Falls, and Bridal Veil Falls. The power and beauty of this natural wonder are truly unforgettable. And to top it off, we’ll enjoy a nighttime tour of the falls, complete with a fireworks show (unless cancelled). **Possible Itinerary Highlights:** * Corning Museum of Glass (optional, 90 minutes) * Watkins Glen State Park and Finger Lakes (optional, 90 minutes; subject to park opening – typically April-October). * Niagara Falls Night Tour (mandatory, 90 minutes) **Hotel:** M Hotel Buffalo, Niagara Riverside Resort, or similar. **Day 3: Niagara's Majesty and the Journey Home** We'll spend more time marveling at Niagara Falls, the waterfall with the highest flow rate in North America. The Niagara River's journey from Lake Erie to Lake Ontario and eventually the Atlantic Ocean is a sight to behold. Depending on the season, our exploration will include: **Summer (Maid of the Mist open):** An optional tour will include Whirlpool Park, Cave of the Winds, and a thrilling Maid of the Mist boat ride (2.5 hours total). **Winter (Maid of the Mist closed):** An optional tour will include Whirlpool Park, Cave of the Winds, and Old Fort Niagara State Park (2.5 hours total). Afterward, we'll head back to New York City. **Note:** The Maid of the Mist boat tour is typically closed during the winter.