Fly to New York where the entire city is decked out for the holiday season. We’ll check into our hotel, the Crowne Plaza, located directly on Broadway and Times Square and within walking distance to Central Park, Radio City Music Hall, and Rockefeller Center. The evening is set aside for exploration on your own. New York has something for everybody, and our hotel is perfectly situated for you to sample fine cuisine, take in a show, or gaze at Times Square’s flashing neon signs.

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll begin our tour of New York to view some sparkling and festive holiday decorations adorning the city.  In mid-afternoon, we’ll watch the giant balloons of the Thanksgiving Day Parade come to life as they are inflated and kept earthbound by giant nets. Try to spot some of the most popular balloons such as the traditional Snoopy or the newer SpongeBob SquarePants. We’ll return to the hotel, allowing ample time for you to explore the city on your own in the evening. Meals: B, L

For those who choose to participate in the viewing of the beloved Thanksgiving Day Parade, we’ll have an early breakfast at the hotel before walking a few blocks along the parade route to find the perfect viewing location.  We’ll spend the morning watching the iconic, colorful character balloons float by, listening to sounds of the brassy marching bands, and watching famous celebrities perform in the parade.  For those choosing not to partake in the parade, the morning is yours to sleep in, visit a nearby museum, or wander around Times Square.  After lunch on your own, the group will gather together mid-afternoon to see the vibrant Radio City Rockettes’ Christmas Spectacular, New York City’s favorite holiday tradition.  Afterwards, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner together at a legendary New York restaurant. Meals: B, D

Today is a free day to pursue your own interests.  Get in the holiday spirit by visiting Macy’s iconic flagship store with its decked-out festive window displays. Get a start on your holiday shopping at the Columbus Circle or Bryant Park holiday markets, perusing through glittering aisles of art, jewelry, home goods, and delicious treats from local artisans and designers.  Visit one of the over 500 art galleries and museums in NYC.  After dinner on your own, we’ll experience a live Broadway production. Meals: B

After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll travel to the National 9/11 Memorial and Museum where we’ll learn about the history of the 9/11 attacks and the 1993 World Trade Center bombing at the site where the Twin Towers once stood.  The Museum’s dynamic blend of architecture, archaeology, and history creates an unforgettable encounter with the story of the attacks, their aftermath, and the people who experienced these events.  After lunch we’ll walk the short distance to the One World Observatory, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.  From high above the crowded streets, we experience the stunning views of New York’s iconic skyline.  In the evening, we’ll enjoy a farewell dinner before heading to the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, a holiday attraction worthy of the big screen, consisting of an array of colorfully decorated houses in south Brooklyn. Meals: B, D

We’ll enjoy one last breakfast at our hotel before traveling to the airport for our return flights home.  With the joy of the holidays fresh in our hearts, we’re sure to bring home stories of great sites, great meals, and great people. Meals: B