Four-Day East Coast City Sprint: NYC, Philadelphia & Washington, D.C.
Three cities, four days, one pulsing corridor of American history and food. This compact East Coast sprint stitches New York's skyline to Philadelphia's colonial heart and Washington’s monuments, with local guides and hands-on food tours to keep the pace lively.
The Experience
Before You Go
Expect a lot of walking
Plan on 4–7 miles of walking per touring day on flat, paved urban surfaces; bring comfortable, broken-in shoes.
Carry a portable charger
Maps, tickets, and digital boarding passes will drain your phone—pack a high-capacity power bank.
Use contactless payment for transit
Tap-enabled cards or mobile wallets speed subway and ferry rides in NYC and Washington, D.C.
Allow buffer time for security
Monuments and museums have varied security lines—add 20–45 minutes to popular stops during peak hours.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Roosevelt Island Tram viewpoint for a quiet skyline perspective
- •Elfreth's Alley in Philadelphia, a preserved 18th-century lane off the beaten path
Wildlife
- •Peregrine falcons nesting on urban ledges
- •River gulls and shorebirds along the Hudson, Delaware and Potomac
Conservation Note
Use public transit and reusable containers to reduce single-use waste; support museum membership programs and local restaurants that source responsibly.
These cities trace the arc of U.S. history from colonial assembly halls in Philadelphia to federal symbolism on the National Mall; industrial-era Brooklyn and the rise of skyscrapers map economic shifts.
Photographer's Notes
- • Brooklyn Bridge walkway overlooking Manhattan
- • DUMBO waterfront by Jane's Carousel
- • Lincoln Memorial steps facing the Reflecting Pool
What to Bring
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Support for multiple miles of walking on pavement and stairs.
Light daypackEssential
Holds water, snacks, sunscreen, and a jacket for quick access.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated keeps energy up during long walking stretches and transit hops.
Portable phone chargerEssential
Keeps maps and tickets powered through a busy day of sightseeing.
Common Questions
How does pickup and drop-off work?
Pickup is coordinated from the start hotel in NYC; the guide will confirm airport transfers depending on flight times and terminals.
Are meals included?
Three breakfasts plus select lunches and dinners are included as detailed in the itinerary; specific meals like the DUMBO breakfast and a Philly cheesesteak are provided.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes—transportation and main areas are listed as wheelchair accessible; contact the operator ahead for specific mobility needs.
What if the minimum group size isn't met?
The operator requires four travelers; if the minimum isn't reached 30 days prior you can be offered a private alternative, rescheduling, or a full refund.
Can I store luggage before or after the tour?
Luggage support is typically coordinated through the start hotel or upon request to the operator—confirm timing in advance.
Should I tip the guide and driver?
Tipping is customary; plan about $5–10 per person per day for guides and a bit less for drivers, depending on service.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4 days
Location
New York, NY
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Comfortable with moderate walking ability; no special fitness required but expect multiple miles per day
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