Print Full Itinerary
Itinerary: Subject to change due to local conditions, unforeseen events, or more interesting as yet unplanned awesome experiences that become available
Overview:
A mysterious castle lies at the edge of the Adirondacks, a place where history and legendary tales accentuate the natural energy of its essence. Built in 1860 with the craftmanship of masons from Ireland and Switzerland, Beardslee Castle was built to resemble an Irish castle down from its limestone foundation to its mystical dungeon. It’s here where we’ll immerse in a fun murder mystery where anyone can be the culprit.
On our way up north to murder and mayhem, we’ll enjoy the glorious fall colors of the Adirondack Mountains, explore the small-town charm of historic Cooperstown with a little wine tasting and ghostly tales of Hyde Hall, search for diamonds, and walk among the beauty of nature. We’ll be relaxed and comfortable at the historic and picturesque Inn at Stone Mill that’s right in the center of friendly Little Falls, New York situated alongside the Erie Canal. It’s the perfect place for strolling in nature and admiring well preserved historic architecture.
So, grab your sleuthing hat and sense of mystery and join our fun jaunt up towards the Adirondacks of New York!
Day One: Cooperstown
It’s a beautiful fall day, so let’s get driving! Enjoy the views along the way as we move north towards a historic town that’s known for baseball but is also so much more.
Step into small town Cooperstown, set in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains with quiet streets and charming old homes sitting amidst the tranquil shores of Otsego Lake.
Take your time to explore and wander and find a tasty lunch on your own.
Hyde Hall Ghost Tour:
If you’re up for some ghostly tales, join us as we head within the chambers of historic mansion Hyde Hall be intrigued by stories of the haunting apparitions who have lingered here for over two centuries.
Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard:
Before we go too far, let’s dive into the fall season at Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard where we can taste, tour, and explore the sights, sounds and flavors of the mill.
Inn at Stone Mill:
Now onto the sweet town of Little Falls where we can get comfy and check into our charming home at the Inn at Stone Mill.
Day Two: Moss Island
The intriguing Moss Island is only minutes away via the Erie Canal path that leads to Lock 17 which is still in operation today, so let’s get exploring.
You’ll be amazed at the 40-foot-deep potholes unique to the rock cliffs of the island.
Buttermilk Falls:
There are approximately 27 Buttermilk Falls in the state of New York, so let’s visit one of them!
It’s a short walk to the 50-foot cascade that brings a sense of peace with the sound of each droplet of falling water.
Herkimer Diamond Mine:
Now it’s time for an energizing included lunch which we’ll need at our next stop to mine for diamonds.
Get your hammer ready because it’s diamond finding time! Hidden in the rocks of Herkimer County are one of nature’s most magnificent gemstones. The Herkimer Diamond Mines are home to an abundance of double terminated quartz crystals that formed almost 500 million years ago.
Their diamond-like shape closely resembles that of a true diamond, so who would ever know! Take your loot back to the inn and hide it for safekeeping, while we relax before our night of murder and mystery.
Beardslee Castle:
Onto the beguiling Beardslee Castle in the proper setting, just as darkness approaches. We’ll share the castle’s history and haunting stories along the way to set the mood for mystery.
As our dinner is served, the play begins as the cast mingles among the crowd and gets everyone into character. Once our Death by Chocolate dessert is served, we find out who dunnit and if our guesses were correct.
Be on the lookout for any ghostly voices or apparitions throughout the night.
Day Three: Willie Wildlife Marsh
Today we enjoy all the colors of fall as we head into the Adirondack Mountains at Peck Hill State Forest.
Take a stroll along the boardwalks of the Willie Wildlife Marsh and step into the stillness and sounds of croaking bullfrogs.
Local Lunch:
Now sit back and relax as we make our scenic way south with a stop for an included lunch at a great local spot along the way.
We’re almost home to New Jersey so take in all the last fall moments of our fun fall road trip into New York State.
Pricing & Departures:
This will be a Special, Intimate Small Group tour with a max of 10.
Departs South Plainfield High School at the end of Lane Ave at 7:00 AM and returns at approximately 8:30 PM
Departs Madison’s Kings Road Parking Lot, 62 Kings Rd. at 7:45 AM and returns at approximately 7:45 PM
Departs Ridgewood’s Graydon Pool South lot (across Linwood Ave) at 8:30 AM and returns at approximately 7:00 PM
Price per person is $1,275 Twin & $1,525 Single. No reservations accepted without a deposit of $150 per person. Make checks payable to Group Tours & Travel and mail to the included address. Final payment is due September 1, 2024. Deposits are fully refundable if cancellation occurs on or before September 1, 2024. There are no refunds if cancellation occurs after September 1, 2024. Travel protection/cancellation coverage is available and highly recommended (approximately 10% of the total cost of the tour) but not included. One piece of luggage per person and one carry-on are permitted. Group Tours is not responsible for any delays, cancellations, injuries or circumstances beyond its control and reserves the right to change this itinerary. All trip components are subject to change in accordance with Government, State and Local guidelines and/or mandates. This tour will run rain or shine.
Upon submitting final payment you are agreeing to our new policy.
Wet Blanket Policy:
Wet blanket
– a person who makes it difficult for other people to enjoy themselves by complaining, acting negatively, creating drama, etc.
– one that quenches or dampens enthusiasm or pleasure
- Our philosophy of travel involves getting out of the ordinary to experience other cultures and places with an open minded attitude and flexibility. Since as in daily life, anything can and will happen, let’s embrace these situations with acceptance and understanding because they will either lead to an unexpected, amazing experience or positive learning experience.
- If anyone brings along excess baggage such as incessant complaining, under the breath rude comments, outward negativity or other such behaviors that infect the entire group or individuals, we have the exclusive right to remove them from the tour at their own cost with no refunds. (yes, this means you)
- If any major concerns arise during a tour, please just come talk to us and we’ll work it out!
The Educated Wanderer
Group Tours & Travel
PO Box 632 Berwyn, PA 19312
973-513-9001
