Day 1 – New Jersey

Take the morning flight from London to Newark. On arrival, take the train to Jersey for a 3 night stay. Explore NYC and Jersey City.

Once a major gateway to the US, Hudson County welcomed millions of immigrants into the Bergen Neck peninsula region, a landscape of hills, inlets and neighbourhoods mostly sandwiched between the Hudson and Hackensack Rivers. Today, with Jersey City as its county seat, the area is an eclectic urban destination with a revitalised feel, an international population (second in size only to New York City) and lots of green space. Less than one kilometre away from New York City, here you’ll find ethnically diverse cuisine, exciting cultural events, emerging art districts, sports attractions and plenty of outdoor recreation.

Highlights include Liberty State Park, the Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal and the Liberty Science Center. 

Overnight New Jersey 3 nights

Day 2/3 – NYC and Jersey City

Explore the unconventional collection at The Museum of Russian Art, take a trip to the Afro-American Historical and Cultural Society Museum, check out downtown Jersey City’s Powerhouse and Riverview art districts to really get a sense of the community’s vision before heading to Mana Contemporary to see cutting-edge art, dance performances and even film screenings. Catch a concert or play at The Landmark Loew’s Jersey Theatre before you go.

Outdoor adventures abound including kayaking and sailing trips on the Hudson River, maybe jet ski past the Statue of Liberty on a guided Sea the City tour or get tickets for a soccer match, rugby game or a concert at Red Bull Arena, home of the New York Red Bulls Major League Soccer team.

Day 4 – Philadelphia

This morning take the train from Jersey City to Newark and change train to Philadelphia.

Take a tour of the murals, a walking tour of the city, or visit the Barnes Foundation to view the wonderful collection of paintings. Run up the ‘Rocky’ steps in front of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, made famous in the Sylvester Stallone films. When you feel hungry go to the Reading Terminal Market where you can find a wide selection of cafés, including numerous options for a Philly Cheesesteak! Philadelphia is a historic city where the Declaration of Independence was signed, the Liberty Bell rang out and people such as Ben Franklin, Betsy Ross and John Hancock helped shape America. Try an alternative city tour by Segway or bicycle, or enjoy a food tour.

Overnight Phildelphia 3 nights

Day 5/6 - Philadelphia

Philadelphia’s neighbourhoods are a great way to experience the city. From Center City you can walk, rent a bike and pedal or take public transport to most areas and get a flavour for another side of the city. There are also bike tours and walking tours if you’re looking for a real insight into some of the neighbourhoods.

With one of the largest city-owned urban park systems in the world, Philadelphia is home to trails, riverfronts, parks and outdoor opportunities. As you stroll through Philadelphia you will see sculpture, architecture, mosaics and murals as well as unofficial street art. Spruce Street Harbor and the Delaware Riverfront are great options for a spot of outdoor dining and people watching, with street food, entertainment and great water views. Named for the neighbourhood’s earliest residents, Fishtown has become one of Philadelphia’s liveliest neighbourhoods, close to the Delaware River waterfront area. Music venues, hip bars and restaurants, trendy shops, and vibrant street art make Fishtown one of the most sought-after destinations in the city.

Day 7 - Philadelphia to Atlantic City by train

Located in the southeast corner of New Jersey, Atlantic City has long been one of America’s top destinations. Whether you’re looking for excitement, entertainment or just a day at the beach, there’s always something to experience in a city that’s ‘always on’.

The world-famous Boardwalk is home to a range of deluxe casino resorts that offer visitors the best of everything. Atlantic City is also a top destination for nightlife, with restaurants and clubs that cater for visitors of all ages. And of course, Atlantic City has long been a showcase of A-list headlining entertainment, with many of the world’s top acts performing nightly. 

Overnight Atlantic City 3 nights

Day 8/9 - Atlantic City

There are plenty of other coastal attractions and activities to enjoy here in Atlantic City, including the aquarium, Absecon Lighthouse, sightseeing and dolphin-watching cruises, fishing, surfing the Atlantic waves, kayaking, kite boarding and of course, just relaxing on the beach. Traditional beachside entertainment can be found on the Steel Pier and at Central Pier Arcade and Speedway. 

Check out Lucy the Elephant, a popular Atlantic City landmark to the south of Atlantic City. Originally built by a real estate developer in the 1880s as a gimmick to attract potential buyers to his land holdings, presidents and royalty came from around the world to stay at the neighbouring Elephant Hotel and climb the stairs to Lucy's howdah. During her history, Lucy has survived hurricanes, ocean floods, and even a fire. Today, fully restored Lucy is a National Historic Landmark, the oldest surviving example of a unique form of "zoomorphic" architecture, and the oldest "roadside" attraction in America.

The dining scene in Atlantic City is not to be missed, from family friendly buffets to five star, celebrity chef fine-dining, you can try food from around the world as well as locally sourced and inspired menus. You will find casual beachside spots, roof top options with stunning views, dinner cruises and walking foodie tours, so whatever your taste Atlantic City is sure to have it. 

Day 10 – Atlantic City to Philadelphia by train

Morning and lunch in Atlantic City. Take the train to Philadelphia to catch your evening return flight to London.