Stars, Stripes and Carnegie Hall

Day 1. 

Touch down in Philadelphia around 5 pm and settle into your hotel home, nestled in the historic district. Offering easy access to nearby landmarks and a wide array of dining options, take time to wander the storied streets, soaking in the Colonial architecture and the city’s vibrant energy. Dinner is yours to discover – perhaps a classic Philly cheesesteak or upscale fare in Old City. Hilton Garden Inn Center City – 3 nights

Day 2.

With a local guide leading the way, experience Revolutionary revelations in your deep dive into Philadelphia’s rich legacy, especially poignant during our country’s 250th anniversary. Visit the National Constitution Center, Independence Hall and stand before the iconic Liberty Bell to name but a few of the singular, all-American sites you’ll see today. (FB,L)

Day 3.

Begin with a visit to the American Revolution Museum, then to Christ Church and Burial Ground, final resting place of Benjamin Franklin and other revolutionary figures. Take a break at the bustling Reading Terminal Market where local flavors and artisanal treats await your selection for lunch. Afterwards learn about our first flag at the Betsy Ross Home. (FB,L)

Day 4. 

Depart Philadelphia and head north (less than 100 miles) to the Big Apple. Your arrival begins a with hosted brunch at Fraunces Tavern – once a meeting place for George Washington and his officers. Savor the ambiance and cuisine in this storied Downtown landmark. Did you know New York City was our nation’s first Capital City? When George had a hard day at the office, it was here – on Wall Street no less! We’ll begin our exploration of the Big Apple’s often-forgotten Colonial past right after brunch. Then we head Uptown to Times Square and our hotel home. New York Marriott Marquis – 3 nights (FB,BR)

Day 5.

Today we visit the site where the inauguration of our first president was held; then pop in on the Trinity and St. Paul’s Churchyards to honor the early Americans who rest there. Touring will continue to a Brooklyn site where history declared: The Declaration of Independence was signed in ink at Philadelphia and signed in blood at Brooklyn. Have lunch in Brooklyn’s trendy DUMBO before returning to Midtown where you can grab a quick rest before dinner and the Carnegie Hall Birthday Gala featuring the New York Pops Orchestra! (L,D)

Day 6.

Today is for Broadway. OK, so that’s not Colonial era, but how can we come here and not pay homage to musical theatre, THE all-American art form? Visit a rehearsal studio where actors, musicians and technicians will share their stories of training, pathways to the stage and maybe even some behind-the-curtain secrets. Before returning to the hotel we will visit the Museum of Broadway for a comprehensive look at the history of The Great White Way. This year Hamilton marks its 10^th year on stage. We just can’t resist this epic tale of Founding Father “A-dot-Ham”! If you’ve already seen the show tell us at the point of reservation and we will help find another performance more to your liking. (D) 

7. On our way to LaGuardia, we’ll stop and spend a few hours with our favorite True Heroes at a firehouse in the Bronx. Enjoy lunch in the real Little Italy. Meet the shop owners who produced the foods you enjoyed at lunch. If you like grab some to take home – our treat! (L)