American Heritage - 16 Day Self Drive

Full Itinerary

Day 1 - Arrive New York

Hotel: Westin New York Grand Central 4* (or similar)

Land into New York City today, famously known as the Big Apple. Once you have your bags, make your own way to your first hotel.

Enjoy an entire day to immerse yourself in the vibrancy of this dynamic city, teeming with diverse crowds, iconic landmarks, and towering skyscrapers. Take in the sights of the Statue of Liberty, Fifth Avenue, Central Park, Rockefeller Centre, the Empire State Building, the United Nations, and an array of other attractions.

Day 3 - Washington DC - 229 Miles

Hotel: Washington Hilton 4* (or similar)

Pick up your rental car this morning and embark on a scenic southwest journey to Philadelphia, a city steeped in history with landmarks like Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the legacy of Benjamin Franklin. Your day concludes in the nation’s capital, Washington, D.C.

You will have a full day to explore the expansive boulevards of America’s political hub, where the grandeur of Washington's iconic monuments—such as the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and the White House—is heightened by their impressive surroundings. The National Mall, hosting the Smithsonian’s array of museums, serves as a treasure trove for the nation's historical artifacts and cultural richness.

Day 5 - Shenandoah National Park, Virginia - 88 Miles

Hotel: Big Meadows Lodge 3* (or similar)

Explore Virginia's rich colonial and Civil War legacy. Delve into the historical significance of the Battle of Bull Run, where the enduring impact of America's founders is palpable in both its institutions and architecture. Enroute, catch a glimpse of Thomas Jefferson's residence at Monticello before ascending to the serene highlands of Shenandoah National Park for a night surrounded by natural beauty.

Day 6 - Roanoke, Virginia - 152 Miles

Hotel: Holiday Inn Roanoke Tanglewood 3* (or similar)

Today, trace the crest of the stunning Blue Ridge Mountains, adorned with a distinctive bluish hue during the summer. Continue your journey through the verdant and picturesque Shenandoah Valley as you make your way to Roanoke, Virginia, your destination for the night.

Day 7 - Gatlinburg, Tennessee - 266 Miles

Hotel: Hilton Garden Inn Gatlinburg 3* (or similar)

Today's destination is Gatlinburg, situated at the gateway to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Gatlinburg warmly embraces its visitors, offering a true taste of Appalachian hospitality at its finest.

Day 8 - Charleston, South Carolina - 342 Miles

Hotel: HarborView Inn, Charleston 4* (or similar)

Take in the breathtaking scenery as you drive through the Great Smoky Mountains, renowned for the unique blue haze that envelops them. Traverse the ancestral lands of the Cherokee Indians on your way to historic Charleston, a city designed for leisurely strolls. Explore the historic district, appreciating its unparalleled Antebellum architecture. Charleston holds historical significance as the site where the early shots of the Civil War were fired, initiating a four-year conflict that culminated in the defeat of the Confederate States and the reunification of the United States as a single nation.

Day 9 - Savannah, Georgia - 107 Miles

Hotel: Hotel Indigo Savannah Historic District 3* (or similar)

Following your departure from the historic charm of Charleston, consider a visit to the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens, before continuing your journey southward to the port city of Savannah. The Old Savannah historic district has undergone meticulous restoration, capturing the gracious ambiance of the Antebellum South.

Day 10 - St Augustine, Florida - 188 Miles

Hotel: Embassy Suites by Hilton St Augustine Beach 3* (or similar)

Travel along the verdant, semi-tropical coastline of Georgia, where the charming architecture of Brunswick reflects the influence of 18th-century English settlers. Continue past Jacksonville on your way to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. Spend the evening exploring the quaint streets of St. Augustine and indulging in a leisurely dinner.

Day 11 - Orlando, Florida - 112 Miles

Hotel: Rosen Inn International 3* (or similar)

In 1513, Ponce de León landed here in search of the Fountain of Youth, and today, that timeless quest persists as sun worshippers flock to Florida's beaches. Join them this morning or delve into the city's Spanish heritage before embarking on a coastal drive southward to Orlando.

Spend an entire day immersing yourself in the enchanting world of Walt Disney World Resort, where you can explore the wonders of Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, and Disney-MGM Studios. Alternatively, embark on Disney's wildest adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. (Speak to a member of our USA team to book your chosen tickets!)

Day 13 - Sarasota, Florida - 127 Miles

Hotel: Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach 3.5* (or similar)

Take a brief drive to the western shores of Florida, where Tampa Bay once served as a haven for pirates and buccaneers of a bygone era. The captivating natural beauty of Sarasota is accentuated by the presence of barrier islands, referred to as "Keys," lying just off the coast.

Day 14 - Miami, Florida - 237 Miles

Hotel: Gale South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton 4* (or similar)

Travel along the Tamiami Trail, traversing the core of the largest sub-tropical wilderness in North America, the Everglades. The expansive River of Grasses serves as a sanctuary for a diverse array of birds and animals. To the east of the Everglades, discover the inviting sandy beaches of South Florida.

Take advantage of a full day at your leisure in Miami, whether it's exploring the vibrant atmosphere of South Beach or indulging in some shopping at the numerous superb malls. Conclude your journey with an unforgettable evening in the lively ambiance of South Beach, where you can dine, dance, and make the most of your final night.

Day 16 - Depart Miami, Florida

Today marks the end of your American Heritage self-drive. Return your rental car at the airport today before your departing flight.