From NYC: 6/7-Day Philadelphia, Washington DC & Niagara Tour

A 7-Day Adventure Across the East Coast: Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Niagara

If you’re looking to cover some of the most iconic sights of the East Coast in one trip, this 7-day tour from New York City offers a well-rounded, thoughtfully curated experience. For a price of about $3,124 per group, you’ll visit Philadelphia’s historic sites, stand in awe at Niagara Falls, and tour Washington DC’s political landmarks — all with a small, intimate group of around 12 or 13 travelers. A knowledgeable bilingual guide will keep things engaging, and you’ll enjoy modern comforts like new vehicles with onboard Wi-Fi and charging ports.

What we love most about this tour are the carefully chosen hotels that reflect the local vibe—no generic chain stays here—and the personalized touch of pre-trip materials, including a helpful booklet and the chance to capture your journey with custom video clips. It’s a package that balances sightseeing with comfort and offers great value for anyone wanting an authentic taste of America’s East Coast highlights.

That said, a possible consideration is the tight schedule—with so many places packed into a week, you’ll need to be prepared for some busy days and early starts. But if you’re hungry for a comprehensive yet relaxed tour that balances guided visits and free time, this experience is well-suited, especially for first-timers eager to see the highlights without the hassle of planning.

This tour is ideal for travelers who prefer small groups, appreciate local charm in accommodations, and want the convenience of a well-organized itinerary that doesn’t skimp on major sights or comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Comfortable, modern transportation with Wi-Fi and charging ports keeps you connected throughout.
Small group size allows for more personalized experiences and easier interactions.
Handpicked hotels reflect local culture, adding to the authentic feel.
Flexible schedule with optional add-ons like museums and observation decks enhances your trip.
Inclusive pricing covers many major attractions, tours, and gratuities, offering good value.
Pre-trip materials help you prepare and make the most of your time on the road.

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Exploring the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

This tour is a blend of structured sightseeing and flexible options, designed to give you a comprehensive taste of the East Coast’s top destinations. Here’s a detailed look at each day:

Day 1: Arrival in New York City

Your adventure begins with a free pick-up at JFK or LaGuardia between 8:30 AM and midnight, giving you ample flexibility to arrive on your schedule. The optional morning and night tours are a big plus—they let you see Brooklyn Bridge, Chinatown, Little Italy, and the Manhattan skyline without the rush. These guided walks are quick but packed with photo opportunities and local flavor.

The hotel options are comfortable, centrally located, and reflect local New York charm, such as the Hyatt Place Flushing or Holiday Inn Newark.

Day 2: Discovering New York City

Your second day is dedicated to exploring NYC’s iconic sights. The tour includes a visit to DUMBO for its stunning Manhattan views and the NYC Fortune Tour, which offers insights into the city’s fortunes and history.

Optional activities include the One World Observatory, which provides breathtaking views from the top of the World Trade Center, or a visit to MoMA for art lovers. The evening can be spent enjoying the city lights or perhaps catching a Broadway show—both optional, but highly recommended if time permits.

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Day 3: From NYC to Philadelphia

After breakfast, it’s time to leave the Big Apple behind for Philadelphia. The route includes stops at UN Headquarters and Hudson Yards Vessel—both great photo spots—and the Liberty Cruise (optional). You’ll walk around Independence Park, home to the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, where American history was made.

The hotel stays in Wilmington or nearby afford easy access to the city’s historic sights. The journey is smooth with comfortable mini-vans, making it easy to relax after the busy day.

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Day 4: The Capital and Cultural Landmarks

Next, you’ll cross into Washington DC, home to the U.S. Capitol, National Archives, and the Smithsonian Museums. The tour includes a photo stop at the White House and visits to the Lincoln Memorial and Vietnam Memorial—powerful sites that evoke reflection.

The hotels in Gaithersburg or nearby provide a quieter base outside the city hustle, yet close enough to explore on your own.

Day 5: From the Capital to Niagara Falls

A long but scenic drive takes you through Harrisburg and on to Niagara Falls. Along the way, optional visits include the Corning Museum of Glass, which is a favorite for its fascinating glass art and live demonstrations.

In the evening, you might opt for the Niagara Falls Night View, a spectacular display of the falls illuminated against the night sky—an utterly unforgettable sight.

Day 6: The Magnificence of Niagara Falls

This day is dedicated to experiencing Niagara Falls up close. Depending on the season, you’ll enjoy either a Summer “Magic Tour” or a more in-depth exploration with the In-Depth Tour, both lasting around 1.5 hours. The sheer power and beauty of the falls are awe-inspiring, and the optional Falls Park visit provides ample photo opportunities.

Staying at a hotel near the falls offers the chance to soak in early morning or evening views, avoiding the crowds during peak hours.

Day 7: Return via Boston or directly back to NYC

The final day involves a scenic drive to Boston for a sightseeing tour that includes Harvard, Old State House, and local parks, or heading straight back to New York City. The tour wraps up with a drop-off at key locations, including airports, making travel arrangements straightforward.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Transportation: Traveling in new, comfortable vans with Wi-Fi and charging ports means you stay connected and relaxed, even on long drives. For us, this is a huge plus—no worries about finding Wi-Fi or running out of juice on your devices.

Small Group Experience: With a cap of about 12 travelers, the tour fosters a friendly, engaging atmosphere. You’ll have more chance to ask questions, get personalized tips, and enjoy a less hurried experience compared to large bus tours.

Authentic Hotels: Staying in handpicked boutique or scenic area hotels adds local flavor and comfort. Unlike generic chains, these places often showcase regional style and are conveniently located near major sights.

Inclusive and Flexible: The package covers major attractions and tips, so there are fewer surprises. Optional entries like museums or cruises are available but not forced, giving you control over your experience.

Value for Money

While $3,124 for a week sounds like a substantial investment, considering the accommodation, transportation, guided tours, and many attraction tickets included, it’s competitively priced. You’re not paying extra for separate tickets or transportation, and the pre-trip handbook and personalized videos add a memorable, personal touch.

The tour strikes a good balance of guided sightseeing and free time, letting you explore comfortably without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. Plus, the small group size ensures you get the attention and space you might miss on larger tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for first-time visitors eager to see several major cities and sights without the hassle of planning each detail. It’s perfect if you appreciate small-group travel, personalized attention, and comfortable accommodations. If you’re okay with busy days and some early mornings, you’ll find this tour offers a satisfying, practical overview of some of America’s most famous destinations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is airport pickup included? Yes, free airport pick-up and drop-off are available at JFK and LaGuardia airports, between 8:00 and midnight.

What if I arrive late? You can still be picked up as long as your arrival falls within the designated pickup window. Just contact the tour operator in advance.

Are hotel check-ins guaranteed on the first day? Usually, check-in happens after 3:00 PM. If you arrive earlier, you might need to wait or store your luggage.

What’s the group size? The tour emphasizes a small group experience, limited to about 12 participants, creating a more personalized and relaxed atmosphere.

Are meals included? Breakfasts are covered, but other meals and beverages are at your own expense.

Can I customize the itinerary? Optional activities like museum visits or cruises can be purchased on the day, allowing some flexibility.

Is this suitable for travelers with mobility issues? The tour is not recommended for wheelchair users, as some sites involve walking and stairs.

What should I bring? Comfortable shoes and clothes are essential, as well as cash for small purchases or tips.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some peace of mind.

Final Thoughts

This 7-day tour from NYC offers a fantastic way to see four of America’s most iconic destinations—all in one organized, comfortable package. It’s especially appealing if you want a small-group experience that combines sightseeing, culture, and some downtime in charming hotels.

You’ll love the smooth transportation, the personalized touches, and the opportunity to see both urban and natural wonders without the stress of planning every detail. While the schedule is busy, it’s designed to maximize your time and provide a balanced taste of history, culture, and natural beauty.

If you’re looking for a hassle-free, well-organized way to explore the East Coast’s highlights, this tour is a smart choice. Perfect for first-timers, couples, or small groups who want to enjoy America’s historic and scenic treasures while traveling comfortably and making new friends along the way.

Happy travels, and enjoy discovering the best of the East Coast on this thoughtfully crafted adventure.