North America
American Heritage – Suggested Self Drive
American Heritage
Trace the fascinating heritage of America as you travel down the East Coast, experiencing the culture and sights that make this country great.
Your itinerary
Today, arrive in New York City, known as the Big Apple. Transfer independently to your hotel.
A full day is yours to explore this exciting city filled with people, famous sights, and skyscrapers. See the Statue of Liberty, Fifth Avenue, Central Park, Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building, the United Nations, and much more.
Collect your rental car this morning and start your drive southwest to Philadelphia, home of Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and Ben Franklin. Your destination this evening is the nation's capital, Washington, D.C.
The broad streets of America's seat of government enhance the dramatic effect of Washington's memorable monuments: the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and the White House. At the National Mall, the Smithsonian's complex of museums is a repository for the nation's historic treasures.
Explore Virginia's colonial and Civil War heritage. Visit the site of the strategic Battle of Bull Run, where the historical influence of America's founders is reflected in its institutions and architecture. Pass by Thomas Jefferson's home in Monticello before ascending to the highlands of Shenandoah National Park for the night.
Today, follow the crest of the beautiful Blue Ridge Mountains, which in the summer have a distinctly bluish cast. Then continue along the lush, green Shenandoah Valley en-route to your destination tonight, Roanoke, Virginia.
The destination today is Gatlinburg. Nestled at the entrance to the Great Smoky Mountains National park, Gatlinburg welcomes its guests with a taste of Appalachian hospitality at its best.
Enjoy the scenery while driving through the Great Smoky Mountains, famous for the distinctive blue haze which cloaks them. Pass through the ancestral homeland of the Cherokee Indians en route to historic Charleston, a city built for walking. Take a leisurely stroll through the historic district and note its unsurpassed Antebellum architecture. It was in Charleston that early shots of the Civil War were fired, starting a four-year battle that ended with the defeat of the Confederate States and the re-emergence of the United States as one nation.
After leaving historic Charleston, many people choose to visit the Magnolia Plantation and Gardens. Drive south to the port city of Savannah. The historic district of Old Savannah has been beautifully restored, recreating the gracious atmosphere of the Antebellum South.
Follow the lush, semi-tropical coastline of Georgia, and see the influence of 18th century English settlers in the charming architecture of Brunswick. Pass Jacksonville en route to St. Augustine, the oldest city in the United States. Time this evening to wander the streets of St. Augustine and enjoy a relaxing dinner.
Searching for the Fountain of Youth, Ponce de Leon landed here in 1513, and that eternal search continues today by sun worshippers on Florida's beaches. Join them this morning or explore the Spanish heritage of the city before driving south along the coast to Orlando.
Enjoy a full day exploring the entertainment complex of Walt Disney World Resort - home to the Magic Kingdom Park, Epcot, and Disney-MGM Studios, or experience Disney's wildest adventure yet, Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park. (Admissions not included)
Make the short drive to the western shores of Florida and Tampa Bay which sheltered the pirates and buccaneers of a bygone era. The stunning natural beauty of Sarasota is enhanced by the barrier islands, known as "Keys," lying just offshore.
Follow the Tamiami Trail and drive through the heart of the largest sub-tropical wilderness in North America, the Everglades. The watery River of Grasses is a sanctuary for a myriad of birds and animals. East of the Everglades, the sandy beaches of South Florida await you.
A full day at leisure in Miami to explore South Beach or to shop at the many superb malls. Spend your last evening in lively South Beach. Dine or dance the night away.
Return your rental car today before your departing flight.
- Central Park - Go for a walk or run through the first landscaped park in the U.S.
- Statue of Liberty - View the Statue of Liberty from Battery Park.
Washington, D.C - Delight in DC’s celebrated monuments and memorials showcasing the history of the U.S. - The White House - Capture a photo of The White House, the official residence and work place of the president of the United States.
- ShenandoahNational Park - Hike one of the many trails along Skyline Drive in Shenandoah National Park.
- Charleston - Stroll down Charleston’s quaint alleyways or trot through the streets in a carriage.
- Savannah - Explore Savannah’s beautifully preserved historic neighbourhoods.
- St. Augustine - Visit St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest permanently occupied European settlement.
- Orlando - Immerse yourself in world-famous theme parks and unforgettable adventure in Orlando.
- Tampa Bay - Embrace the maritime history of the Tampa Bay area.
- Sarasota - Experience an abundance of sun, sand and water in Sarasota.
- South Beach, Miami - Discover South Beach, Miami’s hot spot for fun.
Recommended by
Hayley
Choosing your Rental Car
Take into consideration the size of the vehicle you require. We recommend a minimum of a medium sized SUV for two adults. This will give you space and freedom when you're travelling, and room for those extra purchases that you may make along the way. Book your car with House of Travel before leaving home as this will save money and ensure you get the car of your choice.
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