Where to begin in a country that is all but a continent? In the bright lights of New York? Perhaps – although you can find urban thrills as readily in Boston, Chicago, Washington DC, San Francisco, Los Angeles and New Orleans. Next to the deep chasm of the Grand Canyon? Maybe – although the national parks of Yellowstone, Big Bend, Great Smoky Mountains and Yosemite are just as striking. On the beach in Florida? Possibly – if the coasts of California, Hawaii or Virginia do not call as loudly. The options may be endless.
Outside bet: A common question put to travel writers is “where is your favourite place you have visited?”. I usually reply “Seattle”. This city of the north-western USA is awash with coffee and cuisine at Pike Place Market, memories of great bands at its EMP Museum, and rugged scenery on the nearby Olympic Peninsula. It deserves greater credit.
8 holidays match your criteria.
Look up! Look Up! Art & Architecture of Chicago from CICERONI Travel .
Remarkable introduction to Chicago’s iconic architecture
Well-paced and thorough exploration of the revitalised Art Institute.
Group to be guided by a panel of Chicago’s best architectural historians and museum experts Burnham-designed landmark hotel located in “The Loop"
Bespoke Alaska wildlife tour which visits three classic locations for whale watching and grizzly bear safaris.
This memorable walking holiday is perhaps the ultimate way to experience the stunning desert scenery of America’s southwest. Along with hikes in the spectacular Grand Canyon there are walks in Bryce, Zion, Arches, Canyonlands and Sedona parks.
Fall Beauties: Boston & the Berkshires from CICERONI Travel; Superb opportunity to discover Boston’s cultural & art institutions. Remarkable in-depth view of the newly displayed Museum of Fine Arts. Visits to the newly reopened art galleries at Harvard & Harvard’s Arnold Arboretum. Excellently located historic hotel in fashionable Back Bay
In-depth discovery of America’s capital & its art collections
Private visits to both the Department of State & the Senate
Splendid houses & gardens in Georgetown
Visits to the estates of America’s “Founding Fathers” in Virginia
Comfortable & well-located 4* hotels in Washington & Charlottesville
American Arcadias: Philadelphia & the Du Ponts from CICERONI Travel. Superb opportunity to discover Philadelphia’s great art collections including private visit to the newly housed collection of the Barnes Foundation & in depth view of the stunning Museum of Art. Visits to Longwood Gardens plus the Winterthur & Nemours estates.
Remarkable introduction to the principal Art Museum & 'House' collections of New York. Enjoy Old Masters, Period Interiors & American Art at 'The Met'.
Private visit to MOMA. Excellently located Midtown hotel off 5th Avenue
Opportunity to attend the Metropolitan Opera. Discover Houses & Gardens along the Lower Hudson River Valley.
Opportunity to enjoy the remarkable collections at both the Getty Centre & the Getty Villa. Visit to Pasadena & the stunning Huntington collection & gardens. Private visits to houses & gardens in Bel Air & Hollywood. LA architecture from Frank Lloyd Wright to Frank Gehry. Well-located historic Downtown hotel.
