Microtel Inn and Suites by Wyndham Philadelphia Airport $117.31 each
8840 Tinicum Blvd
Philadelphia, PA 19153
(215) 492-0700
24 hr cancelation
24 hr shuttle to airport
(Queen, continental breakfast)

Lighthouses of Maine (3.5 hrs) $169

The spectacular rocky coastline nearby Portland, Maine is studded with lighthouses dating back over 200 years. On this tour you’ll see three prominent lighthouses and visit the Museum of Portland Head Light. Drive through historic Portland passing by the Eastern Promenade offering a panoramic view of Casco Bay, the Portland Observatory, the new arts district, as well as the thriving business districts.

Visit Bug Light, a steel structure lined with brick, that was first lit in 1875 to aid navigation for this busy port. Enjoy the Liberty Ship Memorial dedicated to the 266 ships built on the site during WWII. These vessels were the workhorses of the WWII fleet, carrying cargoes of grain, mail, ore, ammo, trucks and troops. Then it’s a short jaunt to the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse. Many vessels ran aground on this dangerous ledge before requests from several steamship companies convinced the government to build a lighthouse.

Travel along Cape Elizabeth’s rocky coast to Fort Williams, now home of Maine’s oldest lighthouse. First illuminated on January 10, 1791, Portland Head Light has since stood at the gateway to the harbor for mariners traveling the perilous coast. Here you’ll have ample time to explore the grounds and visit the museum located in the former lighthouse keeper’s quarters. It chronicles the history of the lighthouse and Fort Williams with exhibits displaying original artifacts and documents, navigational aids, lenses, video displays, models and photography.

•Visit three iconic Maine lighthouses.
• Notice their vastly different architecture.
• Browse a museum in Maine’s oldest lighthouse.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes

Get a wonderful overview of Portland during a panoramic driving tour, and then enjoy free time shopping in Kennebunkport, an equally picturesque coastal village. Your tour commences with a scenic drive through the Old Port, a former warehouse district that is now home to quaint restaurants, unique stores, and art galleries. Continuing, you will pass through the New Arts District, the heart of Portland’s cultural resurgence, and pause for photos at Portland Head Light, Maine’s oldest lighthouse. You will make another photo stop at the extraordinary Wedding Cake House in Kennebunkport. With its carved buttresses, spires, and lacy spandrels, this 1826 home is one of the most photographed buildings in the state. Just as famous is the George H.W. Bush family summer estate, which you will pass on the way to Dock Square, where you will enjoy free time to shop and dine on your own.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See Portland’s best, most characteristic architecture.
• Pause for photos at Maine’s oldest lighthouse.
• Spend about 1½ hours of free time exploring Kennebunkport.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes

Enjoy beautiful views of Maine's famous rocky coastline as well as a visit to the charming coastal village of Kennebunkport, which gained worldwide exposure as the summer home of the Bush family. Located just 45 minutes from Portland, you’ll enjoy a scenic drive through Kennebunkport passing the stunning mansions that were built by wealthy sea captains and merchants in the 1700’s and 1800’s. A stop will be made in the center of town at Dock Square to enjoy some free time to stroll the picturesque streets lined with shops, galleries, unique boutiques, antique stores, restaurants, and pubs. Your return route will take you past Walker's Point, and the Bush estate where world leaders often gathered when George H. Bush was president.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore famous rocky coastline of Maine.
• Enjoy scenic 45minutes ride to charming costal village of Kennebunkport.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Picturesque, historic, and entertaining, the lively city of Portland incorporates the character and charm of its past with a developing urban community. Your tour begins with a scenic drive through the quaint streets of the Old Port where street lanterns highlight a gracious mix of architectural styles. Once a warehouse district, the buildings have been transformed into charming restaurants, pubs, boutiques, and galleries. You’ll continue to Munjoy Hill for terrific views of Casco Bay and the islands from Fort Allen Park. You’ll pass the Portland Observatory and through the commercial center where you’ll see the new arts district, as well as the facade of city hall before entering the Western Promenade, one of America’s best preserved Victorian neighborhoods. Entered into the National Register of Historical Places in 1982, it remains one of the wealthiest areas of the city. Situated along the beautiful coast of Cape Elizabeth is Fort Williams, home of the oldest lighthouse in Maine. First illuminated on January 10, 1791, Port Head Light has since stood at the gateway to the harbor for mariners traveling Maine’s perilous coast. A short photo stop will be made here before returning to your ship.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive through Portland’s New Art District.
• See Western Promenade, one of America’s best preserved Victorian neighborhoods.
• Catch sight of oldest lighthouse in Maine.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Travel through the scenic White Mountains in a meticulously restored 1950s-era railway car that evokes a period when life was more leisurely. You will get a hint of the natural beauty that lies ahead on the 1.5-hour scenic bus drive to North Conway, a delightful town in New Hampshire near the White Mountain National Park. After a bit of free time to explore, you will board the Conway Scenic Railroad in the 19th-century train station and settle in for a breathtaking ride through the majestic White Mountains, which cover nearly a quarter of the state. Along the way, you will pass over towering trestles, through Mount Washington Valley and up into an alpine setting that is spectacularly photogenic. Enlightening commentary will enhance the experience by describing the points of interest in fascinating detail. You will eventually disembark at the late 19th-century Crawford Notch train station for the two-hour return drive to Portland.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Ride the vintage Conway Scenic Railroad into the majestic White Mountains.
• Enjoy panoramic views of the White Mountains and its namesake national park.
• Pass over train trestles, through Mount Washington Valley and into an alpine setting.
• Enjoy the train’s historical ambiance and a boxed lunch along the way.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Settle in for a panoramic drive around historical Portland that focuses on the lighthouses along the rocky coastline. As an introduction to Portland, you drive past the lobster boats on the working waterfront and down cobblestone streets lined with Victorian mansions once owned by wealthy sea merchants. The city’s rich maritime heritage will be most evident at beacons such as the Portland Head Light, which George Washington commissioned in 1791. Classic Maine sweets such as Whoopie Pies and Needhams – a chocolate, coconut and potato treat – will be served there. You will also see the Spring Point Ledge Lighthouse, which resembles a spark plug sitting at the end of a granite breakwater, and Bug Light, a 19th-century cast-iron lighthouse. A short walk will bring you to the Liberty Ship Memorial that honors a former World War II shipyard.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Admire the Victorian architecture throughout Portland’s historic district.
• Gain an understanding of Portland’s maritime heritage through its lighthouses.
• Stop at Maine’s oldest lighthouse and see two unusually shaped 19th-century beacons.
• Savor a blueberry drink, maple syrup and Whoopie Pies, the state’s official dessert.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Spend a carefree day exploring Portland and Kennebunkport, two deeply historical cities whose architectural treasures have been well preserved. In Portland alone, you will pass through several Victorian neighborhoods and the New Arts District, which has become the hub for the city’s cultural resurgence. The house where poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow grew up is also there. He frequently visited the Portland Head Light, which is said to have inspired his poem “The Lighthouse.” You will stop to see this beacon up close on the picturesque drive to Kennebunkport, a charming seaside village with an abundance of Victorian- and Federal-style homes that wealthy sea captains and merchants built. Perhaps even more well-known is the compound on Walker’s Point that served as the summer retreat for President George H.W. Bush and his family. During free time in Kennebunkport’s waterfront Dock Square, you might shop, browse the galleries, and dine on your own.

HIGHLIGHTS

• View the most meaningful landmarks in Portland on a panoramic drive through the city.
• Pause at Maine’s oldest lighthouse, which was first illuminated with whale oil lamps.
• Explore the village of Kennebunkport independently and dine on your own if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing

Behold the natural beauty of Acadia National Park from atop Cadillac Mountain and the elegance of northern New England’s grandest Gilded Age mansion. Being the highest peak on the eastern shore of North America, Cadillac Mountain offers spectacular views of Bar Harbour and the islands just offshore. Tectonic and volcanic activity formed the mountain eons ago and until receding glaciers sheared off its top it was much higher. While taking in the panoramic views, you will learn about the area’s history and some of the most influential people that lived in Bar Harbour. Financier George Sullivan Bowdoin was among them and his 1903 La Rochelle is an extraordinary example of the opulence of the time. The 35-room residence sprawls over 13,000 square feet and features a grand wishbone staircase, intricate crown moldings and period furnishings. Your guided tour includes the rare privilege of viewing the third-floor servant quarters, followed by free time to explore further.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow a scenic road up Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on North America’s east coast.
• Spend time exploring the summit and enjoying panoramic views of Bar Harbour and the islands.
• Tour the finest Gilded Age mansion in northern New England and explore it further on your own.
• Get a glimpse into the lifestyle of Bar Harbour’s ultra-wealthy, early 20th-century residents.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy a relaxing drive through the magnificent Acadia National Park, pausing for photos at the most dramatic overlooks. The drive will begin along the gorgeous coast and soon bring you to Acadia National Park, the first national park east of the Mississippi River. It sprawls over three main areas, including Mount Desert Island, the focus of this exploration. One of its coastal highlights is Thunder Hole, a small inlet carved out of the granite rocks. If the tidal conditions are just right, the waves will rush into the cavern below and violently spew out with a thunderous roar. While pausing for photos, you will also enjoy a panoramic view of Otter Cliff and the Schoodic Peninsula. Turning inland, you will then pass through lush pine forests while slowly ascending Cadillac Mountain. The sights are always spectacular from this vantage point, as it offers a 360-degree view of Bar Harbor and the islands beyond.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the park’s highlights in a group of no more than 14.
• Stop at Thunder Hole, site of a natural phenomenon.
• Behold the expansive scenery from atop Cadillac Mountain.
• Listen to the guide describe the area’s striking geology.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate, layered clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Arrive the serpentine road that leads to the top of Cadillac Mountain and enjoy free time at the summit to take in the panoramic views. The mountain is the highest peak along the North Atlantic seaboard and the first place in the United States to see the sunrise from early October through early March. Its indigenous name – Wapuwoc – translates to “white mountain of the first light,” a reference to that distinction. As you ascend the mountain, the natural beauty of Acadia National Park will unfold. You will gaze out over pink granite cliffs and spruce woodlands. The higher you go the more spectacular the views, especially on a clear day. While walking about the summit, you will look out over Bar Harbour, the Porcupine Islands and Schoodic Peninsula. There is no better vantage point on Mount Desert Island. Later, you will enjoy magnificent views of the Victorian cottages and the Village Green in downtown Bar Harbor.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Follow a scenic road up Cadillac Mountain, the highest peak on North America’s east coast.
• Spend time exploring the summit and enjoying panoramic views of Bar Harbour and the islands.
• See some of Bar Harbour’s most historical landmarks while driving through town.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

If you want to see and do it all in one day, this is the tour for you! Combining the best of the region’s rich history and heritage with natural beauty, this tour features the Top 10 things to see and do in Saint John and the Bay of Fundy. Discover favorites of locals and visitors alike, including Reversing Falls Rapids, a fishing village with a working harbor, the Bay of Fundy beach and sea caves of St. Martins, scenic vistas of the shoreline, charming, covered bridges and chatting with local vendors at the Saint John City Market. Hear about the rich military history as your tour takes you past key sites such as the Carleton Martello Tower and Fort Howe, see parts of North America’s first Geopark, named Stonehammer, take in the Victorian architecture of the historic district and enjoy a taste of Moosehead Beer at an Irish Pub.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the Top 10 sights of Saint John & the Bay of Fundy.
• View the Sea Caves at St. Martins, carved by the highest tides in the world.
• Enjoy a sample of local Moosehead Beer at an Irish Pub.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes

Experience some of the world’s highest tides as you explore a world-class attraction. Travel along the picturesque Fundy coastal drive to the Hopewell Rocks. Your local guide will delight you with both facts and folklore surrounding the Bay of Fundy coastal communities. Pass through Fundy National Park, where you can often spot various birds and even an occasional moose. Then get ready to discover the Hopewell Rocks, an icon of New Brunswick. These flowerpot rocks were created by the clash of continents, carved by melting glaciers, then sculpted by the highest tides in the world. Interpretation will be delivered to explain how twice daily one hundred billion tons of water creates tides that can rise to 50 feet. Your tour includes a boxed lunch that you can enjoy at your leisure.

HIGHLIGHTS

• See the World-Famous flowerpot rocks at Hopewell Rocks.
• Walk on the ocean floor (tide dependent).
• Fully narrated by a local guide, including stories & history.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Gain a historical perspective of Saint John and behold its natural wonders and come away with a remarkably complete understanding of why the city is so attractive. First enjoy a scenic drive around Saint John, you might pass by charming historic neighborhoods lined with beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture, bustling waterfront districts, and stunning viewpoints overlooking the Bay of Fundy. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the City Market, the oldest continuously operating farmers market in Canada, its unique roof, resembling an inverted ship’s hull, pays homage to Saint John’s shipbuilding legacy, enjoy free time to explore its local offerings. The Reversing Falls are timeless, a natural phenomenon that forces the Saint John River to flow backwards when tidal conditions are favorable. Explorer Samuel de Champlain named the river for John the Baptist in 1604.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy a leisurely walk and drive through Saint John, Canada’s first incorporated city.
• Take a scenic drive around Saint John, soaking in its stunning coastal and urban views.
• Spend free time browsing the oldest farmers market in Canada.
• Witness the natural phenomenon of the Reversing Falls if the tide is peaking.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Browse the bayside town of Saint Andrews on your own and with a knowledgeable guide that will describe the defining architecture of this National Historic Site. After an extraordinarily scenic and circuitous drive through the countryside and around the northern edge of Passamaquoddy Bay, you will reach Saint Andrews, which still bears many of the characteristics of an 18th-century British colonial town. While driving through the historical district, be sure to notice the original grid layout of the streets and the abundant classically inspired architecture. During free time, you can explore further independently and browse the delightful shops, if you wish. Later, you will stop at the Reversing Falls, a natural phenomenon created when the Bay of Fundy’s mighty waters rise 14 feet higher than the Saint John River, reversing its flow.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend free time in the town of Saint Andrews, a National Historic Site.
• Admire the various architectural styles while driving through the historical district.
• Explore the charming streets and historic landmarks of Saint Andrews.
• Watch the Saint John River flow backwards, if the tidal conditions are right.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Enjoy a comprehensive look at Saint John that presents the quintessential highlights, beginning with a walk through the Old City Market, Canada’s oldest continuously operating farmer’s market. Opened in 1876, it narrowly escaped the Great Fire of 1877 that devastated Saint John, the country’s oldest incorporated city. Continuing through the suburb of Mount Pleasant, you will soon pause at the Fort Howe lookout for a sweeping view of Saint John and your cruise ship in the harbor. As far as natural attractions, none is more unusual than the Reversing Falls Rapids, which you will also observe. At low tide, the Saint John River empties into the bay. As the tide rises, the volume of seawater increases so quickly that it reverses the river water’s flow, pushing it upstream. Military history will take center stage at the Carleton Martello Tower, where the British mounted artillery on its circular flat roof during the War of 1812.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Drive in and around Saint John with stops at the most historical landmarks.
• Browse the Old City Market, which has been operating continuously for about 150 years.
• Watch the Saint John River reverse its flow, if the tidal conditions are favorable.
• Take in the views from Fort Howe, a National Historic Site that the British built in 1777.
• See a military tower from the War of 1812 that continued to be used until World War II.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes

Discover Saint John’s most compelling attractions and venture up the coast to the fishing village of St. Martins, another classic seaside community. The sightseeing begins at Fallsview Park, where you may witness the Reversing Falls Rapids, a natural phenomenon that forces the Saint John River to flow backwards until the tide goes out hours later. A meandering and immensely scenic drive will then take you to St. Martins, a quaint fishing village known for its Victorian architecture, lighthouses and covered bridges. Another highlight is the Sea Caves, which relentless waves have carved out of the red-sand cliffs. After seeing the caves and enjoying the beach, you will stop at a restaurant for a bowl of seafood chowder and then return to Saint John to enjoy free time browsing the Old City Market. Constructed in 1876, it has the distinction of being Canada’s oldest continuously operating farmers market and offers a huge assortment of merchandise.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch as the Saint John River reverses its flow if tidal conditions are favorable.
• Enjoy a coastal drive to the charming fishing village of St. Martins.
• Stroll the beach and explore the caverns at the Sea Caves near St. Martins.
• Browse the stands in Canada’s oldest continuously operating farmer’s market.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

It’s hard to fit all you can see and do in Halifax into one visit. This tour offers a full day experiencing the best that Halifax and Peggy’s Cove has to offer. After boarding your motor coach, you’ll be taken on a scenic drive to beautiful Peggy’s Cove. Here you’ll have free time to explore this charming area, take pictures of the most famous lighthouse in Canada or shop. Afterwards, return to the city to enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant, take a tour of Citadel Hill, check out the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic and enjoy a walk-through Halifax’s Public Gardens. Learn the history of the city of Halifax, while taking in all of the sights and sounds of this bustling city.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Scenic motor coach drive to iconic Peggy’s Cove.
• Free time to explore the village, photograph Canada’s most famous lighthouse, and browse local shops.
• Tour the historic Citadel Hill National Historic Site.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Visit two of Halifax's most popular landmarks, Peggy's Cove and the Fairview Lawn Cemetery – final resting place of 121 passengers of the Titanic. Enjoy scenic views on your way to Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse- it has been an inspiration for generations of writers, photographers and painters. Take time to explore the shops and galleries around this working fishing community before returning to town. At the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, your guide will walk the grounds with you, bringing to life the tale of the great ship Titanic and its ill-fated maiden voyage. Discover the true identities of the unknown child and J. Dawson, both recovered from the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Their stories are part of a legacy that continues to fascinate visitors after 100 years. Finish your tour at the Maritime Museum of Atlantic Canada, the oldest and largest Maritime Museum in Canada and learn more about Nova Scotia's role in the aftermath of the Titanic disaster. Spend as much time as you like and make your way back to the ship on your own.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the iconic Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse and explore the charming shops and galleries in this picturesque fishing community.
• Tour the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of 121 Titanic passengers, and hear the compelling stories behind their identities, including the unknown child and J. Dawson.
• Learn about Nova Scotia's role in the Titanic disaster.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Maximize your time in two characteristic towns on Nova Scotia’s southern shore by independently exploring the attractions that sound most intriguing to you. Founded in 1811, the village of Peggy’s Cove originally thrived on fishing and has evolved into a beautifully rustic artist’s community. While there, you might browse the art galleries and admire the classic red-and-white lighthouse that marks the entrance to St. Margaret’s Bay. Lunenburg is renowned for being North America’s best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement, the reason UNESCO designated it a World Heritage site. As you stroll the historical streets, be sure to notice the rectangular grid layout, which was drawn up in England.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend hours of free time independently exploring two classic towns on Nova Scotia’s southern shore.
• Meander about Peggy’s Cove, an extraordinarily artistic community known for its classic lighthouse.
• Explore the continent’s best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in Lunenburg.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes

It’s a journey you’ll remember all your life. This tour takes you to two of Halifax’s most popular sites – Peggy’s Cove and the Fairview Lawn Cemetery, the final resting place of 121 passengers of the Titanic. Your tour begins with breathtaking wooded coastal views along the Lighthouse Route as you make our way to the historic community of Peggy’s Cove. Hear how glaciers and constant pounding from ocean waves have shaped the world-renowned village’s granite shores. See the lighthouse that has been an inspiration for generations of writers, photographers and painters, and the famous deGarthe Monument, which artisan William deGarthe carved in the coarse stone. Take time to explore the shops and galleries around this working fishing community before returning to Halifax. Visit Fairview Lawn Cemetery. Your guide will walk the grounds with you, bringing the tale of the great ship’s ill-fated maiden voyage to life. Discover the true identities of the unknown child and J. Dawson, both recovered from the icy waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Their stories are part of a legacy that continues to fascinate visitors over 100 years later.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy stunning coastal views en route to Peggy’s Cove.
• Learn how glaciers and ocean waves shaped the granite coastline.
• Guided walk through the final resting place of 121 Titanic passengers.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Want to share your memories with family and friends? You’ll be taken to the most photographed places in Halifax and its surroundings. This guided tour will give you insight into the Halifax and Peggy’s Cove areas. Make the most of your time in the city by seeing the most visited sites in this region, all included in one tour. Picture stops include Halifax Public Gardens, Citadel Hill, Peggy’s Cove, Titanic Gravesites, Halifax Seaport.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit Halifax’s most photographed and iconic sites.
• Perfect for capturing memories to share with family and friends.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Experience a narrated excursion of Halifax, including a drive by Citadel Hill and the beautiful public gardens before heading out to Peggy’s Cove. On this tour you’ll travel along the scenic coastal highway to the tiny village of Peggy’s Cove, where less than 40 residents live year round. See the brightly colored houses nestled close to the water’s edge in this working rustic fishing village. As you enter the cove, drive by the monument carved by local artist William deGarthe from a massive slab of granite and a tribute to the people of Peggy’s Cove. Your guide will also tell you about the cove, explain how it got its name, tell you the story of the lighthouse and talk about the lobster fishery, which is the backbone of the local economy. Explore the village on your own and if you choose, there is plenty of time to visit a few of the shops and galleries before you return to your ship.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Enjoy commentary filled with local stories and history.
• Take in Atlantic Ocean views, rugged shorelines, and charming rural communities along the way.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

This relaxing excursion highlights Halifax's multifaceted character, taking in its numerous museums, churches and institutions of higher learning, as well as its gracious parks, notable monuments and rich historic buildings. Travel with your guide through historic streets as you learn the story of Halifax’s founding, of the pirates and privateers who walked its streets and of the prosperous, world-class city it has become today. Learn of the Halifax explosion, the terrible devastation in 1917 when the face of the city’s north end was changed forever by the collision of two ships in the harbor. Visit Halifax’s famed Victorian Public Gardens where you’ll enjoy a guided walk in this 16-acre oasis in the middle of the city and a panoramic drive around the Halifax Citadel, the fourth fort to guard the city since its founding two and a half centuries ago and one of Canada’s most visited national historic sites. Then, visit one of the three main Titanic cemeteries, where 121 Titanic victims are buried. You’ll also see such landmarks as St. Paul’s Anglican Church, City Hall, the Old Town Clock and Province House as your coach travels through the streets of this historic, yet modern city.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Learn about Halifax’s founding and its evolution into a modern city.
• Panoramic drive around the Citadel, Canada’s iconic star-shaped fort.
• Learn about its strategic importance and rich military history.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Beginning in the late 15th century, Europeans came here to fish and trade, and shelter from the harsh North Atlantic. In 1749, Britain chose the location to construct a strategic naval base to counter the threat that Louisbourg, the French port on Cape Breton Island, posed to New England.

Four versions of the Citadel have protected that naval base and the town of Halifax. The early forts were built of earth and logs, the first serving through the Seven Years War, the second during the American Revolution, and the third during the Napoleonic Wars and the War of 1812. After 1815, British authorities decided that the old wooden forts defending Canada’s strategic strong points, including the Citadel, should be replaced by more powerful and permanent works of stone. Construction of a fourth Citadel began in 1828 and continued until 1856.

In addition to its military role in the defence of the port, the Citadel was home for thousands of soldiers and their families, many who chose to settle here.

In 1867, British North America became the Dominion of Canada, but the continuing importance of Halifax as a port for the Royal Navy saw British troops remain here until 1906. After that the Citadel was occupied by the Canadian military and remained active through two World Wars until 1952, when it was transferred from the Department of National Defence to Parks Canada.

Discover inventor Alexander Graham Bell’s many remarkable contributions to the world in his namesake museum in Baddeck, a lovely village on the shores of Bras d’Or Lake. You will drive there along the spectacularly scenic and circuitous Trans-Canada Highway. Upon arriving at the Alexander Graham Bell Museum, you will be struck by its unusual design, which is based on the tetrahedron form that the inventor used in his flight test kites. Although Bell is renowned for inventing the telephone, that groundbreaking accomplishment only touches upon the Scotsman’s scientific achievements. Bell earned 18 patents on his own and collaborated on another 12 in areas as diverse as medicine, genetics, electricity, sound, speech, aeronautics and marine engineering. You can learn more about the principles of drag, lift and weight as you explore the exhibits at the museum. On the return to Sydney, you will enjoy extraordinary views of Boulanderie Island and Kelly’s Mountain.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Learn about inventions by Alexander Graham Bell that go far beyond the telephone.
• See models of some of his co-inventions in aeronautics and watercraft.
• Recognize how the museum’s design evokes the look of Bell’s innovative kites.
• Enjoy ever-changing views of Nova Scotia’s natural beauty during the panoramic drives.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Delve into Cape Breton’s history by browsing two museums in the island’s Bras d’Or Lakes region, one focusing on the Gaelic culture, the other on the island’s most famous resident. While meandering about the Highland Village Museum, you will begin to understand what island life what like in the 18th and 19th centuries. This outdoor museum boasts a collection of historical buildings with costumed guides that will demonstrate traditional skills such as quilting and wool dying. It offers an entertaining way to learn about the once prominent Gaelic lifestyle. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the village of Baddeck. The area’s most celebrated resident was Alexander Graham Bell, a Scotsman who lived in nearby Baddeck. At his namesake museum, you will learn about some of his inventions, which go far beyond the telephone. Bell held or co-held 30 patents in fields as diverse as medicine and marine engineering. Inside, you will find full-scale replicas of his co-inventions, including the Silver Dart airplane.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Get a glimpse of the island’s early Gaelic culture at the outdoor Highland Village Museum.
• Browse historical buildings and watch costumed guides perform traditional chores.
• Tour Alexander Graham Bell’s namesake museum for a look into his life and inventions.
• See models of some of his co-inventions in fields such as aeronautics and electricity.
• Spend free time independently exploring Bell’s hometown of Baddeck.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Travel back to the 1700s and discover what life was like at the Fortress of Louisbourg, a re-creation of a French colonial fortified town that is so impressive it has become a National Historic Site. The original settlement was founded in 1713 and thrived as a center of fishing and trade until the British destroyed it later that century. After an enlightening guided tour of the town – which archaelogists have painstakingly excavated, yielding literally millions of artifacts – you will be free to explore on your own. The reconstructed site contains period-style houses, a museum, a bakery and all sorts of defensive buildings. Feel free to converse with the costumed characters as they can provide a rare glimpse into the challenges that the residents of the 18th-century town faced. You might also learn about military life at the former home of Captain De Gannes and how the town was laid out and constructed at the Engineer’s Property.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore a reconstruction of an 18th-century fortified town that is a National Historic Site.
• See the Louisbourg from the guide’s perspective and while exploring on your own.
• Listen to costumed characters recount the challenges of the harsh conditions centuries ago.
• Visit buildings ranging from officers’ homes to storehouses to a tavern.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Browse the only living history museum for the Gaelic culture in North America, a setting that captures the spirit of the pioneering Scottish Gaels. The unique Highland Village Museum sprawls across 43 acres in the Bras d’Or Lakes region in the center of Cape Breton Island. You will be free to explore this fascinating folklore center independently, which will allow you to concentrate on the attractions that you find most appealing. The 11 buildings include 18th- and 19th-century farmhouses, a period wooden church, a shingle mill and a forge. Costumed guides are in each one, eager to explain the joys and challenges of life for the early Gaelic settlers and how the culture changed over the years. You might watch them weaving, dying wool and working with traditional livestock such as long-haired Highland cattle and rare Soay sheep. The guides will also be happy to teach you some Gaelic phrases.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Get a glimpse of the island’s early Gaelic culture at the outdoor Highland Village Museum.
• Explore independently and focus on the attractions that sound most interesting to you.
• Browse historical buildings with period furnishings for a look at the early Gaelic lifestyle.
• Watch costumed guides perform traditional chores such as tending livestock.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Embark on a captivating tour that showcases the Sydney area and introduces you to the charming communities in and around the city center. Discover the many influences that have shaped Sydney's colorful character since its founding by Loyalists in 1785.Your journey begins with an introductory drive through the historic North End, where you’ll see beautifully preserved buildings and learn about the city’s early settlers. As you continue into bustling downtown Sydney, you'll experience the vibrant atmosphere and local culture that define this area. Next, you’ll arrive at the charming Whitney Pier, known for its multicultural churches that reflect the diverse heritage of the community. Here, you’ll gain insights into the various cultures that have contributed to Sydney’s rich tapestry. Midway through our journey, we will make a memorable stop at Fort Petrie, a key military fort from WWII. This site offers stunning views of the harbor and is a perfect opportunity for photos that capture the essence of Sydney’s history. After a short drive to the next stop, you will have free time to explore the Colliery Lands Park, which pays tribute to the area’s coal mining industrial past. Enjoy the natural beauty, walking trails, and informative displays that tell the story of Sydney’s coal mining heritage. As we continue our scenic drive back to the port, you’ll enjoy breathtaking coastal views while passing through Dominion beach, picturesque fishery village, mining towns and the impressive wind farms at Lingan, a testament to the region's commitment to renewable energy. This unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty makes for an unforgettable experience that highlights the essence of Sydney.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover the heart of Sydney and the surrounding landscape of Sydney Harbor.
• Learn about the city’s history and its significant role in the coal, steel, and fishing industries.
• Enjoy a memorable photo stop at Fort Petrie, capturing stunning views of the harbor.
• Explore Colliery Lands Park at your leisure, immersing yourself in the area's coal mining heritage and natural beauty.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Built in 1787, Cossit House is one of the oldest surviving houses in Sydney and possibly, one of the oldest buildings on Cape Breton Island.  Named for its original owner, Reverend Ranna Cossit, the house depicts 18th-century life.

Following the American Revolution, Rev. Cossit was assigned to the British colony in Cape Breton that, at the time, was separate from mainland Nova Scotia.  Accompanied by his wife Thankful and their growing family, Rev. Cossit became the region’s first Anglican minister and assumed a key role in Sydney’s social and political development.

Join costumed interpreters for a tour of this remarkable house and discover firsthand what life was like for one family during the early days of settlement in Sydney, Nova Scotia.

Originally built as a Roman Catholic Church in 1828. The church stands on the former site of a wooden edifice built for the pioneers in 1805. The congregation came from North Sydney, Sydney Mines, Bras d’Or, Low Point and Louisbourg. In 1850 a balcony was added to accommodate the burgeoning population of the area. Due to the increasing size of the congregation, a new church, Sacred Heart, was later built on George Street.

Lebanese immigrants worshipped at St. Patrick’s until 1950. After that period The Ancient Order of Hibernians took it over until the early 1960s. The Old Sydney Society began to restore St. Patrick’s Church in 1966, and it now serves as a museum devoted to preserving and promoting the culture and heritage of Sydney, Nova Scotia and Cape Breton Island.

View rolling farmlands, stunning seascapes, tiny villages, and bustling harbors along Blue Heron Drive as you get ready to meet Anne of Green Gables and actual descendants of Lucy Maud Montgomery. First stop is Silver Bush and the Anne of Green Gables Museum, here you’ll tour the museum, explore the beautiful grounds with many flower beds and gardens and share some Raspberry cordial with Anne herself! Next, it's off to Cavendish, the old farm site that inspired L. M. Montgomery's first novel, Anne of Green Gables, published in 1908. Highlighting some of the finest attractions on Prince Edward Island's breathtaking north shore, this is the ultimate Anne experience.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore Silver Bush and the Anne of Green Gables Museum.
• See Cavendish, the old farm site that inspired L. M. Montgomery's first novel.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Comfortable Walking shoes and light jacket recommended.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Explore beauty of the fjord and Saguenay National Park.
• Learn about the geological, biological, and morphological development of the fjord.
• Discover charming village of L’Anse St-Jean where you’ll have some free time to explore.

See many of the key attractions that define Saguenay, especially in its decidedly French Chicoutimi district. Saguenay lies at the tip of a majestic fjord where the waters of the Saguenay and the Saint Lawrence rivers meet, and as you drive through the charming town the guide will elaborate on the fjord’s importance to trade through the centuries. Upon reaching Chicoutimi, you will pause for photos of the Little White House that survived the devastating floods of 1996. The house is now considered a symbol of perseverance. You will also pass the Ha! Ha! Pyramid, a contemporary art piece that commemorates the destructive flood. The whimsical pyramid is constructed with thousands of Yield Road signs. during this tour you will see a 19th-century pulp mill that helped spur development throughout this part of Canada.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover how the fjord in this area spurred trade over the centuries.
• Gain an understanding of the 1996 flood that caused widespread devastation in Saguenay.
• See a whimsical pyramid-shaped art installation that commemorates the flood.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Discover the unique qualities of the land and people around Saguenay by visiting several unusual museums devoted to the Saguenay Fjord and pulp mill. Departing from the pier, you will immediately be struck by the natural beauty surrounding Saguenay, which sprawls along the Saguenay River, a tributary of the mighty St. Lawrence. Its fjord, deeply chiseled in the Laurentian Mountains, is one of the world's largest and was discovered by French explorer Jacques Cartier in the mid-1530s. Marine life thrives here, including Beluga whales, Minke whales and Greenland sharks. Arriving at the Fjord Museum, you will discover how the waterway was formed, its importance to the province, and why the museum's strange Ha! Ha! Pyramid monument was created out of more than 3,000 traffic yield signs. Then a self-guided visit will be made, at the historic old paper mill, which is a National Historic Site of Canada, located in a partially forested valley on the Chicoutimi River. The pulp mill once belonged to the Compagnie de Pulpe de Chicoutimi, which mechanically transformed wood into paper pulp to meet the demand of European markets at the beginning of the 20th century. Since summer 2002, following major renovations, La Pulperie de Chicoutimi opens its doors to the public and offers artistic and ethnologic displays on the history of the locals’ inhabitants. Finally, you'll visit Le Chevrier du Nord, a farm that raises angora goats for mohair clothing. It's quite the enterprise and a memorable end to your tour before driving back to the pier.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Marvel at the majestic Saguenay River fjord and discover more about it at the Fjord Museum.
• Visit a goat farm and see how mohair is harvested for a variety of garments.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Discover the European charm and character of the first French City in North America as you explore the city sites and learn the fascinating history of Quebec’s legacy. Perched on a hill overlooking the St. Lawrence River is Chateau Frontenac, the best-known landmark in Quebec. Located just outside the chateau is the romantic boardwalk known as Dufferin Terrace from where you’ll have a spectacular view of the St. Lawrence River, Ile d’Orleans and the Laurentian Mountains.

Passing through the St. Louis Gate, next explore the National Battlefields Park, with a short photo stop at Cap Diamant. Continue on past the trendy Grand Allee, the Champs-Elysees of Quebec lined with quaint shops, sidewalk cafes and boutiques. Next, pass the Hotel du Parliament, an imposing Second Empire-style building. Within minutes of the walled city of Old Quebec are the beautiful pastoral landscapes of Quebec’s countryside. A photo stop will be made at the Montmorency Falls where you'll enjoy the breathtaking views and see the powerful forces of natures as the water of the Montmorency River roars down the cliff to eventually meet with the St. Lawrence River.

On this tour you'll experience the best of both the city of Quebec and the surrounding countryside. Perched high above the St. Lawrence River, your tour will include a stop at Dufferin Terrace and Chateau Frontenac, where you'll have an opportunity to independently visit the surroundings of the Chateau Frontenac and take in the spectacular view of the St. Lawrence River, Ile d’Orleans and the Laurentian Mountains from Dufferin Terrace. Passing through the St. Louis Gate, you will explore the National Battlefields Park, site of the historic battle where the French surrendered to the British in 1759. A photo stop will be made at Cap Diamant before continuing to the heart of the lower town and the beautifully restored market square, Place Royale.

Within minutes of the Old Walled City of Quebec are the beautiful pastoral landscapes of the Island of Orleans and Montmorency Falls. Cascading down a 272-foot cliff, Montmorency Falls is one-and-a-half times as high as Niagara Falls. Take a step back in time as you cross the bridge to the Ile d'Orleans, where you will enjoy a scenic drive passing the tip of the Island and the lovely 19th-century resort homes of Quebec's rich merchant class with spectacular views of the skyline of Quebec. Located along the infamous Beaupre Coast, your journey takes you along the Chemin de Roy (King's Road) to the world-renowned shrine of St. Anne de Beaupre. With over one-and-a-half million visitors and pilgrims making their way to the shrine each year, St. Anne has become one of the most important Catholic sites in North America. You'll enjoy lunch at a beautiful setting in the countryside of Quebec.

Snap selfies at the most photogenic spots in and around Quebec, many of them iconic attractions that define the city. To ensure the best possible results, a selfie expert guide will offer tips so you can capture just the right angle, lighting and composition for every shot. Your pictures will be ideal for posting on social media and sharing in other ways.

As you walk and ride through Quebec, you will pause at designated selfie stops that include:
• Civilization Museum
• Notre-Dame Cathedral
• Saint Lawrence River
• Louis XIV statue
• Place Royale square

HIGHLIGHTS

• Take inspiring selfies at the most photogenic attractions in Quebec.
• Follow tips from your selfie expert guide to ensure the very best pictures.
• Learn the historical significance of the locales while enjoying their dramatic settings.
• Enjoy the ultimate view of the Saint Lawrence River while riding a funicular.
• Pose at the Place Royale, where the city was founded in 1608.
• Stand before the Notre-Dame Cathedral, the oldest church in Canada.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Wear casual, weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable walking shoes.
• Bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen.
• Be sure your phone or camera is fully charged.