Compare The Hudson Valley 2019 by Tauck vs The Canadiana by Omega Tours

Day 1 Arrive Montreal

Tour begins: 5:30 PM, Le Westin Montreal. A transfer is included from Montreal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport to Le Westin Montreal, set in the heart of Old Montreal, just a short walk from world-class museums and shopping, vibrant nightlife and centuries-old historic sites. Please join us for a welcome reception and dinner at your hotel overlooking the city's historic district.

MEALS : D

LODGING : Le Westin Montreal

PORTOFCALL : Montreal, Quebec

Day 2 Montreal, gateway to the Adirondacks

From gleaming skyscrapers to the timeless charm of 17th-century cobblestone lanes, a city tour introduces highlights of this dynamic bilingual city, a medley of European and North American influences. View McGill University's downtown campus, which prides itself on its purposeful blend of university life with the real world, and Mont Royal, the iconic park that stands watch over the city. Take a guided stroll through Old Montreal, between the St. Lawrence River and downtown skyscrapers, with free time to explore Old Port Montreal before lunch. Depart the city on a drive through Québecois farmland to the U.S. border crossing and on through countryside that satiates with mountain views, foothill farms and orchards. A short stop for a walk at Ausable Chasm reveals nature's power in the roar of waterfalls set deep within towering cliffs. Your final destination, the village of Lake Placid, finds you checking into a classic Adirondack resort on the quiet shores of Mirror Lake; enjoy dinner on your own tonight.

MEALS : B, L

LODGING : Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa

PORTOFCALL : Lake Placid, New York

Day 3 Lake Placid cruise, an Olympic ski jump & John Brown's farm

The day begins serenely on a private boat cruise on Lake Placid, described as "a clear, cold jewel" in the Adirondack wilderness, and then steps up in pace at the Lake Placid Olympic Center. Watch the thrilling hurl-into-flight during a ski-jumping demonstration, and drink in the area's beauty over lunch. Afterward, visit the nearby John Brown Farm, the historic home and burial site of the abolitionist who led the ill-fated raid on the federal arsenal at Harper's Ferry in 1859, prior to the start of the Civil War. Return to your hotel for time at leisure; a leisurely walk along Mirror Lake, the views from an Adirondack chair, and the alpine village of Lake Placid are all at your disposal. Have dinner at the hotel tonight.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mirror Lake Inn Resort & Spa

PORTOFCALL : Lake Placid, New York

Day 4 Blue Mountain Lake, the Adirondack Museum and Lake George

Known as a year-round playground for outdoor enthusiasts, the Adirondack mountains and forests have also long been home to lakeside villages and quaint towns. A morning drive through the region ends at Blue Mountain Lake, home to the renowned Adirondack Museum, where modern galleries and historic buildings tell the unique story of the area's residents - how they have worked in logging, mining and on the railroads, and played, from hiking to rock climbing, skiing and snowshoeing. After lunch, stunning scenery continues on a drive to your accommodations, a gorgeous Adirondack-style lodge on the shores of a private island at Lake George.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : The Sagamore Resort

PORTOFCALL : Lake George, New York

Day 5 The hip Hudson Valley, Olana & Lake Mohonk

From Lake George, head south through rolling countryside that is home to small farms, wineries and villages, with a stop in the resort town of Saratoga Springs. Continue on to Olana State Historic Site in Greenport, the former riverside home of noted 19th-century Hudson River School landscape painter Frederic Edwin Church and his wife Isabel, for a Tauck Exclusive private visit including lunch in the Wagon House. Much of the estate, a National Historic Landmark, was designed by Church himself - including the eclectic Orientalist central villa, featuring a mix of Persian, Moorish and Victorian styles; and the sprawling, parklike grounds offering remarkable views of the Catskills, the Taconics and the Hudson Valley, as well as a working farm. Preserved much as it was during Church's lifetime, the estate displays many exotic objects collected by the Churches on their world travels, as well as some 40 paintings by the artist and his contemporaries. Your final destination is Mohonk Mountain House, a Victorian "castle" set on forested cliffs above Lake Mohonk - a resort once frequented by presidents, celebrities and turn-of-the-century industrialists, where you'll spend the next two nights.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : Mohonk Mountain House

PORTOFCALL : Rhinebeck, New York

Day 6 FDR's Hyde Park and old Rhinebeck

Leave your views of Mohonk Lake behind for those of the Hudson River and Catskill Mountains on a drive to the Roosevelt National Historic Site in Hyde Park on the Hudson, the lifelong home of Franklin D. Roosevelt. A guided visit to Springwood, the family mansion, offers a window into an American way of life modeled on an English country estate; learn the story of the home and staff and role they once played in the local community. Afterward, a stop in Rhinebeck on the bluffs of the Hudson River, leaves time for exploring on your own and a chance to wander through a town designated as a National Landmark District with an au courant reputation for arts and culture. Return to Mohonk Mountain House late afternoon; have dinner at the hotel.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Mohonk Mountain House

PORTOFCALL : Hyde Park, New York

Day 7 Boscobel Mansion to West Point and Tarrytown

This morning features an upscale 19th-century view of Hudson Valley life on a visit to critically acclaimed Boscobel Mansion. Completed in 1808, this elegant home was built by a gentleman farmer (and British loyalist) who furnished his home from the most fashionable shops in London. A century later, the house lingered in a state of neglect until local architects and citizens rallied efforts for its rescue in the late 1950s. A tour of the house brings with it a trove of Federal antiques, spectacular Hudson views and the story of its rescue. Next up, get an inside view of the US Military Academy at West Point on a guided tour that tells the story of its historic role in the Revolution, the contemporary experience of its cadets, and of those who have left their mark here - including George Washington, Robert E. Lee, Douglas MacArthur and Dwight Eisenhower. Your accommodations tonight are in the historic town of Tarrytown, where Washington Irving's Ichabod Crane first encountered the Headless Horseman; the author of The Legend of Sleepy Hollow and Knickerbocker Tales did much to enlarge the myths, legends and Dutch history you'll find in this region.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Tarrytown

PORTOFCALL : Tarrytown, New York

Day 8 Rockefeller's Kykuit to New York City's heart

Named after the Afrikaans word for "lookout," Kykuit was the name given by John D. Rockefeller to his six-story stone home which looks impressively out over the Hudson River and to the New York skyline in the distance. This morning's visit takes you through terraced gardens, where fountains, pavilions and sculptures include sculptures by Alexander Calder and Henry Moore, and through the main rooms of the home to four generations of the Rockefeller family. Hear the stories of their lives and their contributions to philanthropy, business and the arts. After time on your own in Main Street Tarrytown, depart for the final leg of your Hudson Valley experience: a two-night stay in the heart of Manhattan, steps from Fifth Avenue.

MEALS : B

LODGING : Parker New York

PORTOFCALL : Tarrytown, New York

Day 9 New York, New York... it's a glamorous town

Feel the energy of Manhattan on this morning's New York City tour, accompanied by a local expert who maps out landmark sights and the stories behind them. Head to Lower Manhattan to view St. Paul's Chapel and the 9/11 Memorial, honoring those who were lost - and expressing hope for the future; in a Tauck Exclusive, meet an NYPD detective who interprets the poignant events of September 11th and the subsequent recovery efforts. See Rockefeller Center, Times Square, Radio City Music Hall, and the Chrysler and Empire State buildings. Next up is an unobstructed view of the city's sensational man-made peaks and valleys, from 70 floors up; a visit to the Top of the Rock atop a Rockefeller Center skyscraper includes the story of its construction, which put thousands of people to work just after the 1929 stock market crash - an initiative credited to John D. Rockefeller. Tonight, please join us for a farewell reception and dinner at the hotel.

MEALS : B, D

LODGING : Parker New York

PORTOFCALL : New York, New York

Day 10 Journey Home

Tour ends: New York City. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Le Parker Meridien to La Guardia, JFK or Newark International Airport. Please allow a minimum of two 2 hours for flight check-in.

MEALS : B

PORTOFCALL : New York, New York

DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN TORONTO

Arrive at Pearson International Airport, Toronto. Individual transfer to your centrally-located hotel. After checking in with your tour director, the remainder of the day is free. Overnight in Toronto.

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 2: TORONTO

We get better acquainted with our traveling companions at breakfast before exploring Toronto on a morning city tour. Experience the sights and sounds of this cosmopolitan city as you explore the downtown area and residential areas. Highlights include the Eaton Centre, old and new City Halls, Casa Loma, Yorkville, and the University of Toronto. You will pass by the Rogers Centre and the CN Tower and drive along the harbourfront for a complete impression of this city. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration. Overnight in Toronto. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 3: TORONTO TO MONTREAL

Departing early, we enjoy a pleasant drive east. Following the north shore of Lake Ontario, we pass endless miles of rolling farmland. Our first destination is the beautiful Thousand Islands resort region, where we embark upon a relaxing cruise. After taking in the sights and sounds of this river playground, we re-board our tour coach for the drive to Montreal. Overnight in Montreal. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotel by Marriott, Montreal, or similar

DAY 4: MONTREAL

This morning, we will tour the second-largest French-speaking city in the world. The dynamic city of Montreal encapsulates the two founding cultures of Canada and boasts a curious blend of history and modernity. Touring the downtown area we view the Olympic Complex, charming Old Montreal, McGill University, the residential streets of Mount Royal, and the bustling shopping streets. The afternoon is for leisure. Overnight in Montreal. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotel by Marriott, Montreal, or similar

DAY 5: MONTREAL TO QUEBEC CITY

This morning, we prepare to depart from Montreal’s cosmopolitan atmosphere and partially follow the route of Canada’s first carriageway, the Chemin du Roy deep into French Canada. Winding our way through typical French-Canadian villages and towns, we experience true immersion in French culture. Upon arrival in Quebec City, we tour within the walls of the old city and view Lower Town, the Citadel, Battlefields Park, and the ornate city gates. Overnight in Quebec City. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Le Concorde, Quebec City, or similar

DAY 6: QUEBEC CITY

The day is at your leisure to further explore the sights of this charming World Heritage Site. You can enjoy an optional full-day excursion to Tadoussac including a 3-hour whale-watching tour on the St. Lawrence River at the mouth of the Saguenay River. Step aboard a regular boat and go in search of the world’s largest mammals. You will also visit the spectacular Montmorency Falls which are 30 meters higher than the world-famous Niagara Falls. Overnight in Quebec City. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hotel Le Concorde, Quebec City, or similar

DAY 7: QUEBEC CITY TO OTTAWA

Following the shore of St. Lawrence, this morning we travel west past Montreal, across the Ontario border, and on to Ottawa — the nation’s capital. We stop for lunch along the way at the Sucrerie de la Montagne — an authentic sugar shack and pioneer-style restaurant. Upon arrival in Ottawa, we take a quick tour of Ottawa. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Ottawa. Meals: B, L

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, Ottawa, or similar

DAY 8: OTTAWA

In the morning we explore Ottawa on a city tour. We view the Parliament Buildings, residences of the Prime Minister and the Governor General, the Rideau Canal (designated by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site), and much more. The afternoon is free for independent exploration of Ottawa’s many museums and fine galleries, shopping at the Sparks Street Mall, or perhaps a boat cruise on one of the city’s many waterways. Overnight in Ottawa. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Ottawa City Centre, Ottawa, or similar

DAY 9: OTTAWA TO MIDLAND

Our journey west from Ottawa features sparkling lakes, rushing streams, deep forests, and characteristic northern towns. The trip will be highlighted by a visit to Algonquin Provincial Park where we will take a walk along the scenic trails. This immense wildlife and forest preserve is a favorite destination for camping expeditions during the summer months, and your walk will give you the opportunity to experience a little of it for yourself. Soon, we enter the Muskoka resort region, our destination for the night. Overnight in Midland. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Super 8 by Wyndham, Midland, or similar

DAY 10: MIDLAND TO NIAGARA FALLS

This morning, upon arrival at Sainte-Marie Among The Hurons, we have breakfast. This fascinating three-acre historic site is a detailed reconstruction of the first inland European community in Canada. Next, we are driving south past Toronto and then through the orchards and vineyards of the Niagara Peninsula with a final destination of Niagara Falls.

A thrilling boat ride on the Hornblower Niagara Cruises - Voyage to the Falls brings us to the foot of the thundering waterfalls for an unforgettable experience. We will take a ride to the top of the Skylon Tower providing a spectacular view of the falls and the surrounding district of Niagara. Afterward, you can enjoy an optional Niagara Helicopter Tour or Niagara Skywheel that gives you a breathtaking view of the Niagara Falls region. The evening is free for exploring North America’s “honeymoon capital”. Overnight in Niagara Falls. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Hilton Hotel & Suites Fallsview, Niagara Falls, or similar

DAY 11: NIAGARA FALLS TO TORONTO

We leave Niagara Falls this morning. Our drive follows the scenic Niagara Parkway through the historic village of Niagara-on-the-Lake, home of the Shaw Festival. Here we see a small but thriving community, proud to display a carefully-preserved nineteenth-century atmosphere. This afternoon completes the tour with a short drive back to Toronto. The evening features our special “Farewell to Canada” dinner at the CN Tower. Overnight in Toronto. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Westin Harbour Castle, Toronto, or similar

DAY 12: TORONTO TO CALGARY (FLIGHT)

Today we transfer to Pearson International Airport in Toronto and check in for our flight to Calgary, Alberta. Having crossed two thousand kilometres of Canadian wilderness and western wheatland, we arrive at Calgary International Airport and transfer to our hotel. After check-in at the hotel, the remainder of the day is free. Explore the Old West at the Glenbow Museum or Fort Calgary on your own, browse through the Eau Claire Market, ride up the Calgary Tower for a great view and savour the great restaurants and dynamic nightlife. Overnight in Calgary. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott, Calgary, or similar

DAY 13: CALGARY TO BANFF NATIONAL PARK

We begin the day with a city tour of Calgary. Leaving the city, we travel west on the Trans-Canada Highway into the rolling foothills of the Rocky Mountains. The majestic peaks of the Canadian Rockies soon fill the horizon as we approach Banff National Park, our first of several in the Canadian national parks system. We soon arrive in the charming resort town of Banff. Overnight in Banff. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel, Banff, or similar

DAY 14: BANFF NATIONAL PARK

Today we will enjoy a tour of the region around Banff. The area became Canada’s first national park in 1885 to protect its natural hot springs. An optional Helicopter Sightseeing Tour will give you the chance to see the eastern ranges of the Rocky Mountains. Alternatively, you can take an optional gondola ride to spectacular Sulphur Mountain. Bring your camera! The rest of the day is at leisure to explore the surroundings of Banff, stroll along Banff Avenue, or relax and enjoy the scenery. Overnight in Banff. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Mount Royal Hotel, Banff, or similar

DAY 15: BANFF NATIONAL PARK TO JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Today’s journey through Banff and Jasper national parks promises to be a highlight of our Rockies Trail program. Shortly after leaving Banff, we visit the famous scenery of Lake Louise, one of the most photographed lakes in Canada. Afterward, we travel north on the famed Icefields Parkway through a rugged wilderness flanked by dramatic mountain ranges.

At the Columbia Icefield, we board a specially constructed Ice Explorer to ride on the surface of the ancient Athabasca Glacier. Close to Jasper, you have the chance to go on an optional raft trip on the Athabasca River. Your experienced guide will point out the natural and human history as you raft through short rapids and stretches of calm waters. Overnight in Jasper. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Lobstick Lodge, Jasper, or similar

DAY 16: JASPER NATIONAL PARK TO SUN PEAKS

Before leaving Jasper National Park this morning, you can take part in an optional Spirit Island Cruise on Maligne Lake, the most picturesque and largest glacier-fed lake in the park. You may alternately take an optional motorcycle tour of Jasper, riding in the comfortable sidecar with an unmatched view of the forests and mountains. Then, we travel west along the Yellowhead Highway and into the heartland of British Columbia. Breathtaking, unspoiled vistas await visitors in every season of the year. The route takes us along the Thompson River through the picturesque Shuswap Highlands. Overnight in Sun Peaks. Meals: B

Accommodation at Sun Peaks Grand, Sun Peaks, or similar

DAY 17: SUN PEAKS TO WHISTLER

We can expect a day of dramatic scenery changes when we drive through the ranch lands and head for the coastal mountains. A journey along the Duffey Lake Road exposes new vistas at every turn. An optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over Garibaldi Park gives you an inspiring view of a natural preserve of volcanic peaks, alpine lakes, and meadows. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Overnight in Whistler. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites, Whistler, or similar

DAY 18: WHISTLER TO VICTORIA

The Sea-to-Sky Highway leads us south through spectacular coastal scenery today. You will visit the Capilano Suspension Bridge suspended high above a magnificent canyon. From Horseshoe Bay, we cruise by ferry across the Strait of Georgia to Vancouver Island and continue by coach to Victoria, British Columbia’s capital city. Arriving in Victoria, we embark on a city tour of this former British enclave. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar

DAY 19: VICTORIA

Proud of her maritime heritage, Victoria has retained a quaint, colonial demeanor evident in the many 19th-century landmarks throughout the city. Today we treat ourselves to a tour of the world-famous Butchart Gardens, one of the world’s great floral displays set in a reclaimed stone quarry. Time will be allocated here for browsing through the regal gardens. You can take part in an optional Floatplane Sightseeing Tour over downtown Victoria and the Strait of Juan de Fuca with the Olympic Mountains in the distance. You can also go on an optional Whalewatching Excursion aboard a Zodiac or a regular vessel. Watch for the magnificent orcas and the abundance of marine wildlife. The remainder of the day is at leisurely exploring the city’s delights. Overnight in Victoria. Meals: B

Accommodation at the Coast Victoria Hotel & Marina by APA, Victoria, or similar

DAY 20: VICTORIA TO VANCOUVER

We continue through the resort region of the Gulf Islands to the oceanside city of Vancouver. Upon arrival in Vancouver, we enjoy an interesting tour of the city, including Stanley Park, English Bay, Gastown, Chinatown, and much more. The remainder of the day is free for independent exploration or simple relaxation. This evening features our farewell dinner. Overnight in Vancouver. Meals: B, D

Accommodation at the Sutton Place Hotel, Vancouver, or similar

DAY 21: VANCOUVER DEPARTURE

A time for last-minute shopping and sad farewells. Individual transfer to Vancouver International Airport in time to check in for your return flight. Meals: B