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:
New England has many nooks and crannies perfect for exploration from a deep-seated history to serene forests and vividly blooming gardens to whimsical art that emanates the feelings of joy. So why not see it all!
We’ll step back in time and experience more than 300 years of history and hospitality at Longfellow’s Wayside Inn, where more than three centuries of stories have been handed down from innkeeper to innkeeper and from neighbors to guests, from one generation to the next.
From here we’ll venture into unique artistic displays tucked into small gardens, a whimsical mystery, a botanic garden like no other, and a rare surviving example of late 19th century architecture and design. So why not leave New Jersey behind and have some wicked fun in Massachusetts, and perhaps along the way, we’ll find out why “chowda” is better than chowder!
Day One: On Our Way!
New England awaits, so let’s get started!
Along our journey north towards the unique artistry of deCordova Sculpture Gardens, we’ll make a whimsical stop to stretch our legs and enjoy an included lunch at a cool local spot.
de Cordova Sculpture Park:
Now it’s time to wander the artsty grounds on the former of Julian & Lizzie deCordova who’s passions were travel and art.
Take your time to take in the creative sculptures that blend in with the beautifully landscaped lawns, forests, fields, gardens, and terraces on a rolling site along the shores of Flint’s Pond.
Ponyhenge:
A Massachusetts mystery is close by, so we must stop to see this bizarre quirky spectacle.
Along a winding back country road lies Ponyhenge, a mysterious collection of more than 30 toy rocking horses of all sizes, shapes, and colors creating a spontaneous art installation that grows in number and occasionally changes position.
Longfellow's Wayside Inn:
Last stop of the day is a blast with the past at the lovely Longfellow’s Wayside Inn. Get comfy in your modernized but historic country style room furnished with authentic antiques or take a stroll on one of the easy walking paths or hiking trails that reveal a quintessential rural New England landscape.
Enjoy traditional New England cuisine for an included dinner at your leisure right here among historic rooms radiating with charm.
Day 2: Wayside Inn Historic Site
Take the morning to explore the 9 historic buildings and museum exhibits of the Wayside Inn Historic Site to learn about the early inhabitants of the area; about the Howe family who settled and farmed the land, operated the inn, and fought in the wars for independence; about poets and artists; and about Henry Ford and his vision to create a living history museum here.
Garden in the Woods:
After, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at a fun local spot.
Now we need to walk off a few calories at the Garden in the Woods where the beauty of native plants shine in a naturally dramatic panorama.
Take your time to wander this magical place among New England flora interspersed within a space sculpted by retreating glaciers resulting in valleys, brooks, ponds and wetlands.
Enjoy Your Night!:
Enjoy the rest of the evening as you please at the tranquil Wayside Inn with an included dinner at your leisure.
Day Three: Eustis Estate
A magnificent piece of architecture and design awaits our visit today. The Eustis Estate is a Gilded Age treasure set upon 80 acres of picturesque land at the base of the Blue Hills.
Our guided tour will lead us through this beauty where we’ll be wowed at every turn while learning the stories of its previous owners and of the renowned architect who created its spectacular design.
Last Local Lunch:
Onto one last included lunch together before we hit New Jersey and are home sweet home.
Pricing & Departures:
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 $1,325 Twin & $1,595 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 May 20, 2025. Deposits are fully refundable if cancellation occurs on or before May 20, 2025. There are no refunds if cancellation occurs after May 20, 2025. 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
PO Box 35 Henryville, PA 18332
973-513-9001
