Jeff Mills Coastal Vacations Club Blog

Traveling in the eastern United States is challenging. Bad weather, traffic, and sprawling urban centers can turn a much anticipated vacation into a not so fun event. This can change by taking the Acela Express, America’s only high speed train, on a seven day tour of three of the East’s must exciting cities. You will tour New York, Philadelphia, and Washington D.C. without the hassle of driving the congested freeways that link each. The package is called the Heritage Tour and it is an affordable way to visit the sites of New York, the museums and history of Philadelphia, and the monuments and parks of Washington. 

The first three days will be spent in New York City where you can visit the Statue of Liberty or tour Central Park. An all day pass is provided for the traveler to utilize Manhattan’s famous double-decker buses. This will save a lot of money on cab or subway fares. You can visit a Broadway performance or sample the night life in the city that never sleeps. Accommodations for overnight stays in New York are up to the traveler to choose, but the train tour organizers will be happy to book accommodations for you in a hotel near the train station. This is not an all-inclusive rail tour, so all excursions and meals will be at the expense of the passenger.

You will board the Acela Express the afternoon of the third day for a quick two hour train ride to Philadelphia. The train runs at speeds outside of stations from 75 to 150 mph. The passenger cars are equipped with a tilting mechanism which allows to train to take the sharp curves without applying G-force pressure to travelers. The train is pulled and pushed by two 6000 horse power engines. The landscape whizzes by as you sit in comfort waiting for the next destination. It is wise to bring your own snacks and beverages on board because, like airports, the food is expensive.

You will spend two nights and one and a half days in Philadelphia where again you are responsible for your own lodging and meals. Here you can explore historical places that most have only read about in school history text books. You can go to Independence Hall or visit a dinner and enjoy the famous Philly Cheese Steak sandwich. Take a glimpse at the Liberty Bell and soak in the history of our nation’s birth. You will leave Philadelphia mid morning on the fifth day and the Acela Express will, within a few hours, deliver you at Washington D.C.’s historic Union Station. After dropping your bags at the hotel the next two days are yours to explore the nation’s capital and view all the museums and monuments your heart desires.

You are responsible for air travel to and from your home city. Bring plenty of clothes to cover seven days and nights of your tour. During the summer it is advisable to wear light clothes and shoes. The Acela Express is air conditioned and your baggage will be handled by the handlers at each train station. This rail experience is a little expensive but can be brought within reason with the opportunity to pick your lodging and excursions.

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Filed under: Acela Express, Budget Travel, Heritage Tour, Train Tickets, travel club