Join us for an unforgettable journey that uncovers the very best that New York and New Jersey have to offer. Take in the sights and sounds of the big city with a private city tour before catching a ferry to visit Ellis Island. Unwind in Cape May with a stay at the historic Congress Hall and experience Washington Crossing Historic Park, as you discover the iconic landmarks and hidden gems that make these two states truly remarkable.
DAY 1: WELCOME TO NEW YORK!
Meet your fellow travelers and Tour Director at Hotel Beacon, a jewel of the Upper West Side, for your welcome dinner. D
DAY 2: TOP OF THE ROCK/NEW YORK CITY TOUR
We’ll start our visit to the Big Apple at New York’s newest observation deck—Top of the Rock. Experience dramatic views of New York City’s skyline, including Central Park and the Empire State Building. Afterward, enjoy lunch at the famous Chelsea Market, a vibrant food hall offering a variety of local dishes, before embarking on a private guided tour of New York City and all its iconic landmarks. The rest of the day is yours to explore as you like — walk The High Line, visit the Met, or even delight in a dazzling Broadway show. B
DAY 3: ELLIS ISLAND & LIBERTY ISLAND
A trip to New York is not complete without a visit to the historic Ellis Island and Liberty Island. Take a ferry across New York Harbor to Ellis Island, where you can walk the Great Hall and learn about the powerful journey of the millions who have passed through. Next, grab a photo with Lady Liberty herself on our visit to Liberty Island. Get up close to the 305-foot New York icon and take in the stunning views of the New York skyline. From here, it’s on to Ocean City for an overnight stay at our hotel that sits right on the Ocean City Boardwalk and Atlantic Ocean. B, D
DAY 4: HISTORIC CAPE MAY
This morning, stroll the Ocean City Boardwalk spanning 2.5 miles along the Atlantic Ocean before traveling to historic Cape May. After lunch, we’ll enjoy a narrated trolley tour of the oldest seaside vacation town in the country known for its quaint Victorian cottages and pristine beaches. Spend the rest of the afternoon exploring this charming town and shopping the Washington Street Mall, lined with local boutiques and eateries.
Option—Sunset Dolphin Cruise Embark on a sunset cruise with a bite to eat on the Delaware Bay, where we’ll search for bottlenose dolphins and enjoy the coastal sights of Cape May. Price: $55 per person D
End the day with a stay at Congress Hall, America’s first seaside resort that has been welcoming guests since 1816. B, L
DAY 5: WHEATONARTS/STATE HOUSE TOUR
Start the day with a visit to WheatonArts, an artist community dedicated to creative expression. Meet with various artists at this working studio to discover the techniques behind the art of pottery and glassworks before visiting the Museum of American Glass and shops featuring products made on site. Later, discover the role that the third state has played in American history as we tour New Jerseys State house in its capital city of Trenton. B, L
DAY 6: WASHINGTON CROSSING HISTORIC SITE/PRINCETON UNIVERSITY
Our day begins with a visit to the Washing Crossing Visitor Center. Here, we’ll take a tour along the Delaware River as we uncover the history behind that infamous and grueling night that became the turning point in the Revolutionary War. Spend time taking in the artifacts and great American history behind this famed site before enjoying a meal at the historic Washington Crossing Inn. Then, we’ll visit the prestigious Princeton University for a private tour highlighting its 1746 beginnings and distinguished alumni. B, L
DAY 7: PATERSON GREAT FALLS/HOME
Our tour concludes with a visit to Paterson Great Falls National Historic Park. Enjoy the sites of the 77 ft tall falls before heading home with fond memories of both New York City and The Garden State. B
Quality Accommodations:
Nights 1-2: Hotel Beacon, New York City, NY
Night 3: Port-O-Call Hotel, Ocean City, NJ
Night 4: Congress Hall, Cape May, NJ
Night 5: Hyatt Place Princeton, Princeton, NJ
Night 6: The Madison Hotel, Morristown, NJ
Dates:
May 11-17, 2026
Sep 14-20, 2026
Price Per Person:
Double - $3,199
Single - $4,099
Pre/Post Tour Pricing:
Call for pricing.
Depart/Return:
New York City, NY
Inclusions:
Free airport shuttle or hotel parking
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions, meals, and drivers
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Free bottled water on coach
Arrival Time
Our Welcome Dinner on Day 1 is at our hotel, Hotel Beacon, starting at 6:30 p.m. We recommend scheduling your flight into New York (LaGuardia Airport – LGA) to arrive by 3:00 p.m. on Day 1.
Departure Time
Schedule your flight home to depart LaGuardia Airport any time after 2:00 p.m. on Day 7.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
We ask that you utilize Uber, Lyft or a taxi to the Hotel Beacon. Keep your receipts, and email or mail them to us following your tour, and we will reimburse you for your transfer expenses up to $100 per person.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
Average Temps
May– high of 72°, low of 53°
September – high 78°, low of 61°
Time Zone
Eastern
Hotel Amenities
Most accommodations arranged by Country Travel Discoveries are equipped with in-room amenities such as a hair dryer, iron, and coffee maker. In addition, some properties may also have a pool, fitness center, spa, or laundry facilities.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
