Today, visit Greenfield Village and the Henry Ford Museum for an experience in living history! Take in the historic homes and see the workshops where famous American icons like the Wright Brothers, Thomas Edison, Henry Ford and Robert Frost were once inspired. Tonight, enjoy a special welcome dinner at the Edsel and Eleanor Ford House. After an elegant dinner is served, a docent will guide you through the estate. Marvel at the exquisite architecture, breathtaking lake front grounds and a collection of fine art that tells the story of one of America’s most prominent industrial families.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  24 Low  12     Best Western Greenfield Inn

Day 3. Allen Park – Frankenmuth – Mackinac Island

On your way to Mackinac Island, enjoy a stop in the quaint town of Frankenmuth which is filled with unique German shops and the largest Christmas store in the world – Bronner’s. Stroll along Main Street with its beautiful flowers and lovely buildings. Board your Mackinac Island ferry and prepare for a ride back in time to a simpler era. As your ferry approaches the shore you can see your home for the next two nights, the glorious Victorian-era resort, the Grand Hotel*. Both your hotel and the island itself are National Historic Landmarks. Upon arrival, discover how the neighs and clip-clops of horses replace the roar of engines. This quiet island of yesteryear evokes a nostalgia that truly inspires the senses. The island is a natural gem with over eighty percent of its land preserved by Mackinac State Park, a wooded paradise accented with limestone formations and ringed by Lake Huron. The evening is yours to relax on your own. Perhaps you’ll take a leisurely stroll through the quaint village or unwind on the Grand Hotel’s famous porch.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High 22  Low  11     Grand Hotel

Day 4. Mackinac Island

Enjoy time to explore Inverness, the “Capital of the Highlands.” This afternoon, enjoy a cruise on Loch Ness. Disembark at the base of famed Urquhart Castle and explore the ruins of this historic stronghold. Continue south through Scotland’s stunning Great Glen before arriving at your hotel on the banks of Loch Linnhe.

  Breakfast & Dinner

Enjoy some leisure time this morning at the Grand Hotel before departing for Wisconsin. En route, experience this state’s picturesque landscape dotted with farmlands, idyllic red barns, and dairy cows roaming the pastures. Wisconsin is famous for its cheese. Small, family-owned cheese producers make most of it, specializing in award-winning varieties. Stop at a favourite local cheese shop for an opportunity to learn about, sample and buy some of its finest products. Later, arrive in Green Bay, Wisconsin’s oldest city.

  Breakfast

Day 6. Green Bay – Chicago, Illinois

En route to Chicago, hear the compelling history of the diverse state of Wisconsin as you pass by classic Midwest cities including Milwaukee. Arrive in Chicago. This dynamic city goes by many names including “Second City” and “The Windy City” – no matter what you call it, you are sure to love it! With an evening at leisure, begin to discover all Chicago has to offer.

  Breakfast      High  24  Low 12     Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile

Day 7. Chicago

We set off for a locally guided tour of Chicago’s unique cityscape and the impressive architecture that makes the city so remarkable. Highlights of your tour include famous Michigan Avenue, the “Magnificent Mile,” the Wrigley Building, the Loop, the Lakefront, and a walking tour through Millennium Park. The remainder of your day is at leisure to relax or discover more of the “Windy City.” Perhaps visit one of its many museums, relax during a scenic boat ride across the Chicago River, or visit the Chicago Cultural Centre which hosts the largest Tiffany dome in the world. Or, you might visit the Art Institute of Chicago and behold the most complete collection of impressionist art outside of Paris. Perhaps you’ll choose to ride to the top of the Sears Tower for remarkable views of the city. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a farewell dinner and celebrate the end of a wonderful journey.

  Breakfast & Dinner    High  24  Low  12     Chicago Marriott Downtown Magnificent Mile

Day 8. Chicago – Tour Ends

Your tour ends today, leaving you with a bounty of happy memories from your visit to America’s heartland.

Start the day with a comprehensive tour of Salt Lake City, including the state capitol building, the charming residential district and the Great Salt Lake, for which the city is named. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Perhaps you will explore Temple Square, one of Utah’s most visited attractions. A beautifully landscaped 10-acre square in the heart of downtown, Temple Square is where you’ll find the impressive six-spired granite Salt Lake Temple and the domed Tabernacle, home of the famous Mormon Tabernacle Choir* and the Tabernacle organ. Afterwards, you may choose to enjoy your night at leisure out on the town at one of the fantastic restaurants, bars or cafés that Salt Lake City offers.

  Breakfast     High  26 Low  11     Radisson Hotel Salt Lake Downtown

Day 3. Salt Lake City – Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Travel north into the rugged splendour of Wyoming to the cowboy town of Jackson Hole. Your home for the next four nights, Jackson Hole is often referred to as the “Crown Jewel” of the Northern Rockies. This stunningly beautiful town has been the setting for many of our favourite American western movies…Big Trail starring John Wayne; Shane with Alan Ladd; and The Mountain Men headlined by Charlton Heston were all filmed here.

  Breakfast      High  20  Low  0    Snow King Resort

Day 4. Jackson Hole – Yellowstone National Park – Jackson Hole

A delightful day awaits as you visit the incomparable Yellowstone National Park. The first and oldest national park in the world, Yellowstone sprawls across 3,470 square miles and touches three western states. Famous for its geysers, hot springs and incredible wildlife, Yellowstone never fails to impress. Be on the lookout for large, free-roaming herds of buffalo. Upon arrival, take a scenic drive to observe the park’s unspoiled natural splendour. Of course, you couldn’t visit Yellowstone without seeing its most iconic attraction: Old Faithful. Watch in amazement as this predictable geyser erupts, sending a fountain of steam more than 60 feet in the air! It’s sure to be a sight you’ll never forget. Return to Jackson Hole and sit down with a true Wyoming cowboy to hear fascinating tales of farm life in this breathtaking region.

  Breakfast      High  20  Low  0     Snow King Resort

The day is yours to explore Jackson Hole. Some optional activities include shopping, canoeing, hiking and river rafting. Tonight, enjoy a fun-filled dinner and authentic cowboy entertainment at a chuck wagon dinner.**

  Breakfast & Dinner    High  20  Low  0     Snow King Resort

Day 6. Jackson Hole – Grand Teton National Park – Jackson Hole

En route to Grand Teton National Park you will visit the National Museum of Wildlife Art. A docent brings the paintings, sculptures and photography to life as you listen to the fascinating history and stories behind these “must-see” exhibits. Then it’s on to the awe-inspiring Teton mountain range. Grand Teton National Park features the youngest peaks in the Rockies, yet it contains some of North America’s oldest rock formations. Approximately 12 Teton peaks rise above 12,000 feet and support a dozen mountain glaciers. As impressive as they are, none can compare to the Grand Teton, which reaches a staggering 13,770 feet as it towers more than a mile above the peaceful valley of Jackson Hole. Be sure to take some time to soak in the beauty of this majestic landscape.

  Breakst     High  20  Low  0     Snow King Resort

Day 7. Jackson Hole – Park City, Utah

Travel to Park City, home of the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, and one of the most spectacular settings in North America. Visit Utah Olympic Park and enjoy a movie that features the games’ highlights. Explore the museum filled with inspiring memorabilia from the Olympic Games. Visit Main Street which is lined with over 64 historic buildings, charming shops, galleries and boutiques.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  22  Low  5     Park City Marriott

Day 8. Park City – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to a close today, leaving you with many wonderful memories.

  Breakfast

A locally guided tour of the city begins with a visit to the famous Palace of Holyroodhouse*, once the home of Mary, Queen of Scots. Embrace the culture of Edinburgh as you enjoy an afternoon to explore independently.

  Breakfast     High 21  Low  13     San Francisco Marriott Hotel

Day 3. San Francisco – Napa Valley – San Francisco

Travel to the lush Napa Valley. With over 40 premium wineries, it is one of the most famous wine-growing regions in the country. Experience a delicious lunch in an elegantly restored Pullman car on the Napa Valley Wine Train.

  Breakfast & Lunch     High  21  Low  13     San Francisco Marriott Hotel

Day 4. San Francisco – Monterey – San Francisco

Travel to Monterey, the city often called the greatest meeting of land, sea and sky. It’s where California’s statehood began in 1849. Monterey is filled with lovingly restored historic buildings and Spanish adobes, and is home to the famed 17-Mile Drive, also known as one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world. Along the drive you will pass through the Del Monte Forest and see such famous sights as the Lone Cypress Tree, perhaps the most photographed tree in the world; Seal Rock, where the seals may actually bark at you; and the prestigious Pebble Beach Golf Course*, where the fairways run along seaside cliffs. Time is available to independently explore charming Monterey and shop at Cannery Row, made famous by John Steinbeck. Enjoy dinner in Monterey before returning to San Francisco.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  21  Low  13     San Francisco Marriott Hotel

Your tour comes to a close today, leaving you with many pleasant memories of your San Francisco tour.

Start your day with a fun-filled breakfast at the famous Ellen’s Stardust Diner, a 50s-themed restaurant featuring a singing wait staff. Then we embrace the festive spirit and lively energy of this fascinating city on a locally guided tour of the “Big Apple.” You’ll see Greenwich Village, the Wall Street district, Little Italy, Chinatown, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Chelsea Market and other time-honoured landmarks. Visit St. Paul’s Chapel in lower Manhattan, a place where George Washington once worshipped and where recovery workers came to rest and care during their time at the World Trade Centre site. Tonight, it’s Diner’s Choice…your dinner is included and you’ll choose the perfect spot from a “menu” of the city’s popular locations in exhilarating Times Square. This evening’s highlight is Radio City Music Hall and the incredible Christmas Spectacular featuring the high-kicking Rockettes!

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  6  Low  -1     Sheraton New York

Day 3. New York City

This morning it’s Diner’s Choice…your breakfast is included and you’ll choose the perfect spot from a “menu” of the city’s great restaurants. Your evening is at leisure for you to take advantage of New York’s fabulous shopping!

  Breakfast      High  6  Low  -1     Sheraton New York

Day 4. New York City

This morning board a ferry and cruise past the Statue of Liberty. Since 1886, “Lady Liberty” has welcomed immigrants and visitors to New York Harbour. Created as a token of friendship between the U.S. and France, the Statue of Liberty has become a global symbol of freedom. Enjoy some free time to discover “the city that never sleeps” at your own pace. Your Tour Manager will have plenty of suggestions for great ways to spend your time. Maybe you’d enjoy a spree at some of the world’s most famous department stores including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. This evening say farewell to this extraordinary city as we enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. Then we venture out to exhilarating Times Square to take our seats for an included Broadway show! You’ll choose* from a selection of Broadway’s biggest hits.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  6  Low  -1     Sheraton New York

Your tour comes to a close with many pleasant memories of your exciting tour of fabulous “New York, New York” during the holiday season.

Today is sure to be one of the highlights of your trip…Albuquerque’s International Balloon Fiesta. Join in the excitement of this annual hot air ballooning extravaganza. This is your chance to experience in person one of the world’s most photographed events. Watch as the balloons launch in two remarkable waves. It’s one of the most spectacular displays of sound and colour in all of aviation. After an early morning, we enjoy some time to relax because later this afternoon we set out on a tour of Old Town Albuquerque and the surrounding area. Savour the unique fusion of Mexican, Native American and Spanish heritages. Embark on a bucket-list ride along the eclectic Route 66. Take some time in Old Town to explore the wonderful shops and restaurants.

  Breakfast     High  22  Low  6     Albuquerque Marriott

Day 3. Albuquerque

Since before the Cold War, New Mexico has been known as a hub for covert military projects. Today, this fascinating history unfolds at the National Museum of Nuclear Science and History, where a docent takes you on an intriguing journey that includes details of the Manhattan Project. Next, visit the gateway of the 19 Pueblos of New Mexico at the Indian Pueblo Cultural Centre. See the ever-changing galleries that highlight local and national Native American artists. With a focus on Pueblo artists, the centre strives to preserve their culture. Later, experience the grandeur of the Balloon Fiesta by moonlight. There will be plenty of time to stroll the grounds and perhaps pick up a memorable Balloon Fiesta souvenir and grab a bite to eat.

  Breakfast      High  22  Low  6     Albuquerque Marriott

Day 4. Albuquerque – Santa Fe

Today, we set out for Santa Fe, travelling along the historic Turquoise Trail. Prehistoric peoples made their homes here, Spanish missionaries explored the area and many battles were fought over this land. You will appreciate the stunning views and a stop in the quaint old coal mining town of Madrid. Once in Santa Fe, a local guide joins the group as we tour the renowned Santa Fe Plaza and the surrounding city. After your tour, make sure you visit the Loretto Chapel. Delve into the intriguing story behind its construction and wonder at its famous million-dollar staircase. Enjoy time to discover the many shops and numerous art museums that Santa Fe is known for.

  Breakfast & Dinner     High  22  Low  6     Drury Hotel

Today is yours to explore Santa Fe independently. There’s so much to see and do in this southwestern city. You may choose to visit a museum or art studio or perhaps join an optional excursion. A special treat awaits at the Santa Fe School of Cooking. It’s your favourite cooking show come to life as you watch an expert chef create a delicious meal before your eyes. Everything is made with a south-west theme and is simply delightful.

  Breakfast & Dinner    High  22  Low  6     Drury Hotel

Day 6. Santa Fe – Tour Ends

Your tour comes to an end with wonderful memories of the spectacular Balloon Fiesta.

  Breakfast