Location: New York, Massachusetts, Canada, Pennsylvania, Washington DC

Distance: 2,724 kilometres

The Eastern Values road trip is a chance to travel back in time as you explore the roots of American history. Journey through New York and Boston before jumping over the border into Canada for a foray into Canada's multicultural metropolis of Toronto. Then it's back into the US to visit more historically significant sites. Along with reliving many of the country's defining moments, you'll see wondrous natural landmarks and spectacular scenery as you hit the road through eastern North America. 

Highlights:

  • The Freedom Trail is a big highlight of Boston. Encompassing 2.5 miles, it leads to 16 historic sites through the city and tells the story of the American Revolution.
  • En route to Niagara Falls, take the time to stop off in Corning to explore the Corning Museum of Glass. It features an impressive collection of beautiful glassworks and gives you the chance to watch or participate in the glassmaking process.
  • Should you find yourself taking the Eastern Values road trip between the months of October and May, you may want to consider taking in a hockey game in Toronto – home to the Toronto Maple Leafs.
  • The Gettysburg National Military Park in Pennsylvania is more than 6,000 acres (2,428ha) of land that played a definitive role in the American Civil War. There are hundreds of monuments, markets and memorials to see.
  • There are plenty of interesting attractions throughout Washington DC, but one of the most impressive is the Smithsonian's National Air & Space Museum. Learn the history of aviation and view such exhibits as the Apollo 11 Command Module.  

Day 1 – New York to Boston

You'll be hitting the road right away, commencing your journey with a 214 mile (344km) drive from the 'Big Apple' to 'Beantown'. Travelling along the coast you will pass seaside towns and picturesque marinas as you journey into Connecticut and on to Boston, Massachusetts.

Day 2 – Boston

The day is yours to explore the city. Boston is the cradle of American liberty, effortlessly spanning the line between its historic roots and modern appeal. The Revolutionary Era comes to life along the Freedom Trail walking route. Visit Fenway Park, one of the US's most beloved baseball stadiums, or get a dose of culture at the Institute of Contemporary Art. Stroll the streets of Harvard Square and visit the Museum of African American History for a different perspective.

Day 3 – Boston to Niagara Falls

Travel west 480 miles (780kms), crossing the Hudson Valley and the Catskill Mountains on the way to Corning. Stop by The Corning Museum of Glass where you can explore extensive collections, watch glass making demonstrations and even try your hand at this delicate process. Continue to Niagara Falls.

Day 4 – Niagara Falls

Spend the day at Niagara Falls – an awesome natural wonder that has inspired dare devils, movie makers and visitors for decades. Enjoy an optional ride aboard the Maid of the Mist to the very base of the falls or ascend the Skylon Tower for lunch with a bird's eye view. If you've had your fill of the falls, why not venture to Niagara on the Lake in Southern Ontario? This beautiful rural area is home to artisans and wine makers who take advantage of the micro climate and fertile land.

Day 5 – Niagara Falls to Toronto

Leave the falls behind and drive 360 miles (580kms) to the cosmopolitan city of Toronto. This modern Canadian metropolis is known for its diverse population and selection of world famous landmarks. It is home to the CN Tower, which stands 1,815 feet (553m) over the city – perfect for panoramic views. The Eaton Centre will appeal to shoppers, while the Casa Loma covers history and architecture enthusiasts. And, of course, the Hockey Hall of Fame is a must to discover more about the country's national sport. 

Day 6 – Toronto to  Amish Country to Gettysburg

Cross back into the United States for a 370 mile (580km) trek to Gettysburg, though there is plenty along the way to  break up the trip. Enjoy the Finger Lakes region of upstate New York en route to Pennsylvania and the Amish Country. The lifestyle of the Amish people  is paralleled by the area's rural beauty. Learn more about this way of life by touring the community before continuing on to the most famous Civil War battleground in Gettysburg.

Day 7 – Gettysburg to Washington DC

There is plenty of time in the morning to further explore Gettysburg's battlegrounds before hitting the road to Washington DC, a 93 mile (150kkm) journey. Experience all the sights of the U.S. Capital, where the broad streets of America's seat of government enhance the dramatic effect of Washington's memorable monuments and world class museums.

Day 8 – Washington DC

Day eight is a full day of leisure to explore the capital and its many landmarks. This historic location is brimming with things to do, ensuring more than enough to keep you occupied for the day. See the Capitol Building, the White House, Georgetown, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial and much more. Visit the Smithsonian's complex of museums –a repository for the nation's historic treasures – and Arlington Cemetery, where you can see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the Eternal Flame at JFK's gravesite.

Day 9 – Washington DC to New York City

Today's journey will be 240 miles (290kms) from Washington DC to New York City. Along the way, stop off in Philadelphia. Another historic location in the US, the city is home to the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Take the afternoon to continue to New York City. The evening is yours to explore. You may want to consider catching an evening Broadway show. A great insider tip is to check out the discounted tickets available for same day performances in Times Square.

Day 10 & 11 – New York City

The final days are spent in New York City, soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of the 'City that Never Sleeps'. Hunt for bargains in the fashion district or in the department stores of 5th Avenue; take in the city onboard a water taxi or cruise around Manhattan. Don't forget to visit Lady Liberty and immerse yourself in the fast paced street life around Times Square before your day 11 departure.