Compare Discover the Canadian Rockies - Eastbound by G Adventures vs Eastern US & Canada Discovery by Globus

Day 1 Vancouver

Arrive at any time.

Please make your own way to the joining hotel.

If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights.

Day 2 Vancouver/Victoria

Head downtown to explore the lush gardens, beaches, woodlands, and miles of trails around Stanley Park, considered one of the world’s greatest city parks. Venture to historic Gastown, and stroll cobblestone streets past Victorian buildings that now house lively restaurants, galleries, and boutiques. Then board the scenic ferry to Victoria.

Take a stroll around the city with your CEO to get familiar with your surroundings before you can enjoy the evening on your own.

Day 3 Victoria

Today is free to explore the charming city of Victoria. Wander along the waterfront and choose among an array of optional activities. Discover the stunning floral displays at the famous Butchart Gardens, peruse the Royal British Columbia Museum, or enjoy high tea at a historic hotel. Or opt to cruise the sea in a Zodiac boat in search of gray whales, sea lions, seals, orcas, and other marine creatures.

Day 4 Victoria/Whistler

Catch the ferry back to the mainland and drive the scenic Sea-to-Sky Highway to the village of Whistler, host of some of the events of the 2010 Winter Olympics. Enjoy a G for Good experience at the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre, a showcase for First Nations customs, art, and music. Join an indigenous guide on an interpretive walk through the forest, hear how First Nations people lived off this land, and learn about local flora used for food and medicine. Then take part in a traditional tea ceremony to sample teas and bannock while listening to ancestral stories and legends. Continue to the mountain resort of Whistler, co-host to the 2010 Winter Olympics.

Day 5 Whistler

Spend today exploring Whistler and the surrounding parks on your own. Stroll through the village, and opt to ride the gondola up the mountain for 360-degree views. Or choose to hike one of the many beautiful trails in the area, go ziplining through the rain forest, or set out on an exhilarating whitewater rafting trip.

Whistler and its surrounding provincial parks are places you must discover. It is also a great place to try one of the many optional mountain activities.

Day 6 Whistler/Blue River

Pass through the Coastal Mountains into the Caribou Mountains on a route once marked by gold prospectors. Sit back and enjoy dramatic changes in your surroundings, the mountains to sweeping grasslands. Enjoy stops at Kamloops Lake, an oasis amid an arid landscape, and the turquoise Seton Lake, a freshwater fjord ringed by towering peaks. Arrive in the small community of Blue River.

Following this extraordinary route, once marked by the gold prospectors, we leave the Coastal Mountain Range and set foot into the arid and dry land of the Thompson Okanagan region. Aboriginal peoples led a semi-nomadic life moving between hunting and fishing grounds in the summer and settling into pit houses for the winter. Europeans came at first for fur trading and later on to establish cattle ranches, farms, and mining operations. The scenery changes dramatically and could even make you feel as if you were in a western movie.

Day 7 Blue River/Jasper National Park

Cross the Rockies into Jasper National Park and follow in the historic path of fur traders on a scenic float trip down the tranquil Athabasca River, encountering a few gentle rapids along the way. Look out for wildlife, which can include bears, moose, eagles, ospreys, and mountain sheep. Later, gaze up at the highest peak, Mount Robson, during a stop at the visitor centre.

Day 8 Jasper National Park

Spend the day at leisure enjoying Jasper’s friendly mountain hospitality. Choose your own adventure among an array of optional activities: Hike to Maligne Canyon, cruise glacially fed Maligne Lake, or rent a bike or canoe to explore on your own. This evening, rejoin your fellow travelers for an unforgettable soak in Miette Hot Springs, where spacious pools of hot mineral springs offer panoramic views of the spectacular Fiddle River Valley.

Jasper's friendly mountain hospitality, peaceful atmosphere, and the promise of real adventure make any visit unforgettable.

Day 9 Jasper National Park/Lake Louise

Pass lush coniferous forests, soaring mountains, turquoise lakes, and epic glaciers as we travel the winding Icefields Parkway—considered one of the world’s most scenic drives—to Bow Lake, stopping along the way to enjoy photo opportunities and wildlife encounters. At the Columbia Icefield, step foot on the lower Athabasca Glacier with an expert guide for a firsthand experience of this active glacial landscape. Continue to magnificent Lake Louise, an alpine lake legendary for its emerald-blue waters.

Along the 300km (186.4 mi) ride, a spectacle unfolds before our eyes: lush coniferous forests, immense mountains, turquoise lakes, high-falling cascades, and humbling glaciers. Numerous stops will be planned along the way for photos, observation, and wildlife encounters.

Day 10 Lake Louise/Banff

Enjoy the morning at Lake Louise, taking in the scenery of the Victoria Glacier. Opt to join a hike to the historic Lake Agnes Tea House, following a forested trail past Mirror Lake and cascading waterfalls to the shores of Lake Agnes, where a remote tea house built in 1901 serves loose-leaf teas and other refreshments. Continue to Banff. Go on a walk back in time through this historic resort town alongside an expert from the Whyte Museum, dedicated to the history and culture of the Canadian Rockies. As you explore local landmarks on foot, discover how the construction of the Canadian Pacific railroad served as a stepping stone towards opening up western Canada.

Day 11 Banff/Calgary

Spend the morning in Banff, then drive to Calgary for a day at leisure. Experience the city’s Western spirit at lively honky-tonk bars, go museum-hopping, or opt to visit the Olympic Park, site of the 1988 Winter Olympics, where you can luge down the bobsledding track in a wheeled cart or soar through the sky on a zipline.

Famed for its entrepreneurial spirit and youthful population, Calgary prides itself on being the heart of the new west while honouring its cowboy heritage.

Day 12 Calgary

Depart at any time.

If you are interested in exploring the city and its nearby attractions, it is recommended you book additional pre-trip accommodation nights.

Day 1: ARRIVE IN NEW YORK CITY

Welcome to New York City! At 6 pm, meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.

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Day 2: NEW YORK CITY–PHILADELPHIA–WASHINGTON DC

The Big Apple & Brotherly Love Orientation drive through New York City en route to Philadelphia for an orientation tour focusing on the important buildings of this historic city, the “Birthplace of the Nation.” During your free time, you may want to visit the Liberty Bell, the National Constitution Center, or enjoy lunch and shopping at the Bourse Food Hall. Continue south to Washington DC, the nation’s capital, for a free evening. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SIGHTS The City of Brother Love, The Cradle of Liberty, or just plain Philly. All of these names apply equally to the city of Philadelphia where its proud history spans the American Revolution to a major force in modern culture, sports, music, and business. See the sights in the birthplace of the nation with an orientation tour through its historic buildings where a country of patriots was born.

FREE TIME TIPS
EXPLORE MORE in Philadelphia with a visit to the legendary Liberty Bell, bearing timeless message: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof" where it rang out from Independence Hall to summon lawmakers to work and the citizenry to gather for news. Benjamin Franklin noted while writing a letter, "Adieu, the bell rings, and I must go among the grave ones and talk ‘politicks.’" Go beyond the iconic crack to learn how this State House bell was transformed into an extraordinary symbol of civil rights. And while no one living today has ever heard the bell ring freely due to its cracked surface, it still resounds with a message of freedom and hope.

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Day 3: WASHINGTON DC

Monumental Memorials Sightseeing with a Local Guide to see the nation’s legendary capital landmarks. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure where you may wish to visit the museums of the Smithsonian Institution. Join us for an optional dinner tonight at one of Washington’s favorite restaurants, followed by an illumination tour of some of the city’s most beautiful monuments. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LIVES Your Local Guide shares the iconic and patriotic monuments to American sacrifice and freedom commemorated in moving memorials. Marvel at the stately and sometimes somber remembrances of heroes and visionaries who shaped the American legacy. See the Vietnam, Lincoln, and Korean War Veterans Memorials, and stop for photo opportunities at the White House and Capitol Hill.

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Day 4: WASHINGTON DC–LANCASTER, PENNSYLVANIA

Pennsylvania’s Past & Present Journey further through Pennsylvania to Lancaster, home to Amish and Mennonite communities whose religious faiths stress humility, family, community, and simple living. (Breakfast,Dinner)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Learn of the timeless traditions of Amish life in Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Hear about the simplicity and surprising beauty of the “plain” life that excludes the use of modern conveniences, such as electricity and telephones.

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Day 5: LANCASTER–NIAGARA FALLS, ONTARIO

Onward to Canada! Travel north through the rolling Appalachian Mountains and enter New York State. Cross the border into Canada for magnificent Niagara Falls. Enjoy an evening at leisure. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
EPIC RIDE Drive north from Pennsylvania to experience a piece of America’s oldest mountain ranges in the Appalachian Mountains. This 2,200-mile-long mountain range spans 14 states and extends into Canada with rolling forests and natural beauty that touches all who visit. Here, the legendary Appalachian Trail is a mecca for the adventurous nature-lovers along the longest footpath in the U.S. Pass through this beautiful part of America on your way to cross the Canadian border to Niagara Falls.

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Day 6: NIAGARA FALLS–TORONTO

Taking the Plunge Board a Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise for a thrilling boat ride to view the thundering falls from river level. Later, drive around the “Golden Horseshoe” of Lake Ontario and through vineyards and rich farmlands to Toronto. Tonight is free. You may wish to join an optional outing to visit the top of the famous CN Tower for great views of Toronto’s harbor and skyline while enjoying dinner. (Breakfast)

NOTE:
Operation of the Niagara Falls sightseeing cruise is subject to favorable weather and/or river conditions. Favorable conditions usually exist from May to October. When conditions are unfavorable, a visit to the Journey Behind the Falls will be substituted.

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS The famous natural wonder of Niagara Falls consists of three massive waterfalls – American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and Horseshoe Falls – plummeting from the southern end of Niagara Gorge. Spanning the border between Canada’s Ontario and America’s New York State, the largest of the falls is Horseshoe Falls – also known as the Canadian Falls –which straddles the border of both countries. Take a thrilling sightseeing cruise on the waters below the thunderous cascades of Niagara Falls and feel the mist and magic of this stunning spectacle of nature.

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Day 7: TORONTO–OTTAWA

Oh, Canada! Take a sightseeing tour of Toronto with a Local Guide. View Toronto’s two city halls, the Ontario legislature buildings, the university, and local neighborhoods, including Chinatown. Then, drive east to Canada’s beautiful capital, Ottawa. Located on the banks of the Ottawa River, Ottawa offers a unique blend of culture, history, and outdoor beauty. Tonight is at leisure, why not enjoy one of Ottawa’s many special restaurants. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CITY SIGHTS Explore the sights of the capital of Ontario with a guided sightseeing tour of Toronto’s landmarks amid its soaring skyscrapers (all dwarfed by the iconic and stratospheric CN Tower). You’ll see Toronto’s two city halls, the Ontario legislature buildings, the university, and local neighborhoods, including the open-air markets and shops of Chinatown.

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Day 8: OTTAWA

Tour with a Local Guide to see Ottawa in-depth. Remainder of the day is free. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURE & TRADITION Explore the city of Ottawa to see its famous landmarks, including Canadian Mint, residences of the Governor General and Prime Minister, the hexagonal National Arts Centre, Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal, and the stately residences.

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Day 9: OTTAWA–MONTRÉAL

Magical Montréal Travel to Montréal to enjoy a sightseeing tour with a Local Guide This evening is at leisure, perhaps stroll through the underground shopping area of Place Ville-Marie or visit historic Old Montréal. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
CULTURAL GEM Explore the cultural capital of Canada where the traditional Québécois style is celebrated along its cobblestone streets and grand buildings in European flair. Stroll the historic streets of Montréal to see Notre Dame Basilica, the Old Seminary of St. Sulpice, and the Old Port of Montréal.

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Day 10: MONTRÉAL–QUÉBEC CITY

French-Canadian Treasures Travel east to Québec City and spend the next two nights in this romantic city located on the banks of the mighty St. Lawrence River. Until the British victory of 1759, Old Québec was the center of New France, and today is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This evening, why not enjoy regional French cuisine with dinner in Old Town Québec? (Breakfast)

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Day 11: QUÉBEC CITY

French Sights & Bites Join your Local Guide this morning for an included tour of Québec City, Canada’s only walled city, including the Place d’Armes, ancient Place Royale, and the Plains of Abraham. The rest of the afternoon is free for independent sightseeing. Tonight’s included dinner outing takes you to Montmorency Falls and over to [LF] Ile d’Orléans for a delightful dinner at a fine restaurant in a restored 17th-century flour mill. (Breakfast,Dinner)

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Le Moulin de Saint-Laurent is filled with a rich history originating from the era of the French Régime in Québec as a flour mill which formerly served the villagers of Ile d’Orléans. Take in the charming ambience of this lovingly restored stone wood-beamed restaurant to experience the treasured traditions of French Québec.

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Day 12: QUÉBEC CITY–FRANCONIA NOTCH STATE PARK, NEW HAMPSHIRE–BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS

Treasures of New England Journey south to capture inspiring views of New England’s natural beauty through Vermont and New Hampshire. Next, pass New Hampshire’s state capitol dome at Concord and continue to Boston. This evening is at leisure. (Breakfast)

TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Drive through some of America’s most beautiful natural masterpieces in the Green Mountains of northern Vermont. Here, the grandeur of mountain scenery and forest greenery are dotted with deep-blue lakes and panoramas for the perfect photo opportunities. Continue through the rich beauty of New Hampshire to the majestic beauty of Franconia Notch State Park in the stunning scenery of the White Mountains.

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Day 13: BOSTON

The Freedom Trail This morning, a sightseeing tour focuses on the city’s most prominent landmarks of the Freedom Trail. See Boston Common, the Old State House, the Old North Church, and Faneuil Hall. The balance of the afternoon is at your leisure. Tonight, join your Tour Director for a farewell dinner where you'll end the evening with a Boston favorite, an authentic handmade [LF] Italian cannoli. (Breakfast,Dinner)

LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES After a day of exploring the iconic sites along the Freedom Trail, take a seat in Boston’s legendary North End district for a farewell dinner in the American tradition. Dinner is finished with a traditional authentic handmade Italian cannoli, a Sicilian pastry filled with a sweet creamy filling and usually topped with chopped pistachios, candied fruit or chocolate chips. Yum!

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Day 14: BOSTON

Safe travels until we meet again! Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)

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