Day 1 - Welcome to New York City

Welcome to the Big Apple! You are met at the airport and transferred to your Manhattan hotel, home for the next five nights. Centrally located in Time Square, close to all the action! Meet your fellow Xplorers at the Welcome Reception this evening!

Day 2 - New York, New York

Joined by a Native New Yorker, utilizing your feet and the New York City Subway, head out to Xplore this great city. Along the way you'll learn about and become an expert at navigating the (in)famous NYC subway system. Xplore Downtown Manhattan, Wall Street, SoHo and Chinatown, these neighborhoods simply can’t be fully appreciated from a bus. It's that most joyous time of year, time for hot cocoa and eggnog, holiday shopping and decorations. Nothing says New York City during the holidays more than the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree!  In the evening experience a holiday lights extravaganza like no other on a guided walking tour, taking in all the sparkle and wonder of NYC Holiday lights! Fifth Avenue is New York City's shopping Mecca and walking through during the holiday season is truly a treat. With stunning displays and decorations everywhere, it's the perfect chance to take in the joy of simply experiencing the city itself.  Grab a cup of hot cocoa at NYC’s largest Holiday Market. Bryant’s Park Winter Village, a European inspired open-air market, featuring artisans from New York City and around the world. Located along allies, plazas, and terraces, the shops are housed in custom-designed, "jewel box" kiosks. Nothing beats having a hot drink in your hand as you enjoy the evening, shopping the local crafts, artisan provisions, distinctive apparel, and exquisite gifts, not to mention local foods… roasted chestnuts anyone! 

Day 3 - Exploring Brooklyn, Dumbo & Dyker Heights

Sorry no elephants with big ears here! Enjoy a guided walk across the Brooklyn Bridge to the trendy DUMBO neighborhood of Brooklyn today. The bridge opened in 1883, after almost 14 years of construction it was, at the time, the tallest structure in both the City of New York and the once independent city of Brooklyn. Hear the incredible history and stories of this structure, one of the most iconic architectural marvels in the world. Your guide will share NYC history and fun city facts as you stroll along admiring incredible views of Manhattan landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building. Oh, yes, Brooklyn is famous for its ‘pies’, pizza pies that is! No trip to Brooklyn would be complete without a stop to savor some of Brooklyn’s finest before boarding a coach to tour another well-known Brooklyn locale, the impressive Dyker Heights Christmas Lights! Where homeowners take holiday decorating to a whole new level, it’s a magical walk guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit!

Day 4 - Inspiration & Promise

Visiting Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty is an inspiring, striking experience. As dual symbols of freedom and hope, these incredible monuments and their museums give proof to the story of immigration and recognize the human spirit. Liberty Island is home to a beautiful park, an innovative museum, and America’s most iconic symbol of promise and possibility. As you explore the grounds, take in Lady Liberty from different angles noting her design details and how her appearance changes with the light.  Visiting Ellis Island, you are given a unique view of American history. Beautifully restored to its peak operating period, the Island allows you to step into Ellis Island travelers’ shoes for a sense of the immigrant journey. At the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum, voyages come to life through a stunning collection of artifacts. Exhibits chronicle the immigration history from the 1500s through to today. As day turns to night, it's easy to see how New York City earned its “City That Never Sleeps” moniker. See the Big Apple after dark with a visit to the iconic Empire State Building, after admiring the mosaics in the Art Deco lobby, ride the elevator to the 86th-floor observation deck and get ready to drink in the astounding 360-degree views. 

Day 5 - Individual Interests 

Today Xplore your own individual interests. It could be a Broadway show, a visit to some of NYC’s incredible museums, or you might like to spend time Xploring Central Park, with so many options you won’t have any issues filling your day! Then come together with your fellow Xplorers for an entertaining evening and Farewell Dinner at Ellen’s Stardust Diner, home of the world-famous singing waiters!

Day 6 - Farewell to New York City

Bidding farewell to New York City, transfer to the airport for your flight home with fond memories, new friends, and many great stories to relate to friends and family.