Travel Resource: The Northeast
From the Smithsonian museums in Washington, D.C., to the beaches of Rhode Island to Vermont’s maple syrup farms, the Northeast is home to some of America’s most iconic attractions. United by natural beauty, vibrant culture, and history as old as, well … America itself, each of the 13 states that make up this region has a unique identity best explored with a group of like-minded travelers on a mission to fulfill their bucket lists.
Delaware
Hagley Museum and Library
Where the past, present, and future of American innovation converge
As soon as your motorcoach pulls into the free, on-site parking area, groups are greeted by Hagley Museum and Library staff to begin their tour of the DuPont Company Powder Yards and the ancestral home and gardens of the du Pont family.
The “Nation of Inventors” exhibit combines history, innovation, and science to inspire guests.
Groups will enjoy a guided tour of Eleutherian Mills, the first du Pont home built in America.
Crucial to the success of the powder mill, the restored Machine Shop demonstrates how repairs to the powder-making machinery were made.
The first du Pont family garden in America features heirloom plant varieties that E. I. du Pont and his family would have grown between 1802–1890.
“Every group that visits Hagley leaves here with a new understanding of what a remarkable, unique museum experience it is,” says Mike Adams, director of museum and audience engagement at Hagley Museum and Library, a 235-acre national treasure nestled in picturesque Wilmington, Del. “Our mission is to inspire all people to be innovative in their own lives, and we do that through tours, interactive exhibitions, and demonstrations that tell the du Pont family story of American innovation.”
First-time visitors are often surprised to learn that Hagley is as much an outdoor museum as it is an indoor museum. Shuttle buses take groups between the key locations of the museum grounds as knowledgeable guides explain why French immigrant E.I. du Pont chose the banks of the Brandywine River as the location for his gunpowder mill—the largest black powder manufacturing business of the 19th century. Hagley visitors can also see antique water-powered machines and a machine repair shop in action; learn how to make black powder then watch it explode; stroll along the scenic millrace that drives the working waterwheel; and explore patent models on display in the “Nation of Inventors” exhibition located inside the Visitor Center.
Continue your tour of the du Pont legacy at nearby Winterthur, Longwood Gardens, and Nemours Estate.
High on the banks of the Brandywine, overlooking the original powder mills, the du Pont estate sheds light on the five generations of family members who lived there. Visitors follow along as a guide explains how the Georgian-style mansion has evolved over the centuries and engages visitors with surprising facts and anecdotes about family artifacts, antiques, artwork, the first office of the DuPont Company, a collection of antique automobiles, and the restored French gardens.
From STEM programs for student groups to seasonal events throughout the year, “there are so many ways to fall in love with Hagley,” says Adams.
“In anticipation of America’s 250th birthday, Hagley Museum will celebrate the 2025 holiday season with ‘Our Storied Past’ themed tours and displays that explore bygone Christmas traditions and events,” says Group Tour Manager Bonnie Wirth. “In 2026, ‘Voices of the Brandywine’ will offer special programming and exhibitions that highlight the people who lived and worked at Hagley and helped shape our nation.”
To learn more about upcoming events and group amenities, visit hagley.org/tours. For help customizing your group tour, contact [email protected] or (302) 658-2400, ext. 259.
Hagley Museum and Library | hagley.org, (302) 658-2400
Maine
Lafayette Hotels
Your partner for motorcoach travel
When Destinations stopped by the Maine booth on the Networking Floor at ABA’s 2025 Marketplace, we were excited to visit with Lafayette Hotels and learn about everything they have to offer groups. Find out what the Lafayette Hotels sales team has to say—in their own words—about their more than 30 properties across Maine and New Hampshire and why they are perfectly suited for motorcoach tours.
Groups will not only find cozy rooms and comfy beds at each of the Lafayette Hotel properties in Maine and New Hampshire, but they will also find excellent customer service and plenty of New England charm.
Groups will not only find cozy rooms and comfy beds at each of the Lafayette Hotel properties in Maine and New Hampshire, but they will also find excellent customer service and plenty of New England charm.
Just steps away for Ogunquit Beach, the Aspinquid Resort offers stunning ocean views.
Every room at Fireside Inn & Suites in Belfast has a patio or deck overlooking beautiful Penobscot Bay.
Seamless Stays and Stunning Locations
Renowned for authentic New England hospitality, our group-friendly hotels provide comfort, convenience, and exceptional service—making us the preferred choice for ABA tour and motorcoach operators. “Our focus is on delivering a hassle-free experience with the warmth and personalized service that defines New England hospitality,” says Director of Sales Don Haggett.
From the beaches of Maine to the mountains of New Hampshire, Lafayette Hotels promises a magical stay for your next group adventure.
Maine
- Merry Manor Inn (South Portland): Enjoy spacious rooms with easy access to Portland’s best attractions.
- Holiday Inn by the Bay (Portland): Stay in the heart of downtown Portland, Maine, with prime waterfront views and top-notch amenities.
- Fireside Inn & Suites (Portland, Belfast, Bangor, Waterville): Comfortable, group-oriented accommodations just steps from local highlights.
- Best Western Bangor and Augusta Senator Inn & Spa: Charming accommodations featuring tailored amenities to perfectly serve motorcoach groups.
New Hampshire
Fireside Inn & Suites (Gilford, West Lebanon): The ideal base for exploring New Hampshire’s scenic lakes and mountains—from Lake Winnipesaukee tours in Gilford to outdoor adventures in Lebanon.
Coastal Retreats
- Aspinquid Resort (Ogunquit, Maine): A stunning seaside property with easy beach access, perfect for groups seeking a coastal escape.
- Boothbay Harbor Inn, Fisherman’s Wharf Inn (Boothbay Harbor, Maine): Explore the charm of Boothbay Harbor—a destination where scenic coastal beauty meets the warmth of New England hospitality.
Valuing Our Guests and Community
With a diverse portfolio across Maine and New Hampshire destinations and a strong commitment to group travel, our hotels ensure a seamless, unforgettable stay for all motorcoach tours, including group-friendly restaurants and food venues, sightseeing recommendations, nearby attractions, and boat trip recommendations.
Our commitment also goes beyond providing memorable hospitality experiences: We invest in and support meaningful local causes. At Lafayette Hotels, we believe in giving back to the communities that have welcomed us as family. Through contributions to the Lafayette Family Cancer Center and our Champion the Cure annual fundraiser, we’ve raised over $7.5 million for cancer research since 2010. Our guests are part of our extended community, and we’re proud to make a positive local impact together.
For sales inquiries, contact Corporate Sales and Revenue Manager Tyler McDevitt at [email protected]. To view more about the Lafayette portfolio of hotels, visit visitlafayettehotels.com.
Lafayette Hotels | visitlafayettehotels.com, (207) 669-5620
Maryland
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Experience the magic of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra
Accents of natural wood make the Music Center at Strathmore warm and inviting, while the high ceilings contribute to its pitch-perfect acoustics.
The BSO Group Sales Team can help customize your group visit, including concert hall tours and meet and greets.
Located on Cathedral Street in Baltimore, the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall has been the home of the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra since its opening in 1982.
If you want to plan a group outing that blends elegance, excitement, and world-class entertainment, look no further than the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra. Performing in both Charm City and just outside the DMV in North Bethesda, the BSO delivers breathtaking performances that span everything from iconic classical masterpieces to contemporary hits that keep the crowd buzzing. With the stunning acoustics of the Joseph Meyerhoff Symphony Hall or The Music Center at Strathmore enhancing every note, your group is guaranteed an unforgettable experience.
Bringing a large group? Even better. The BSO offers exclusive perks for tour groups, including discounted tickets, priority seating, and personalized service to ensure your evening is seamless and sensational. Plus, there’s something undeniably electrifying about sharing the energy of a live performance with a crowd of friends, colleagues, or clients. Whether it’s a night out for music lovers, a corporate event, or a school trip, the BSO turns any occasion into a sophisticated affair.
“Don’t miss the chance to treat your group to an evening where passion meets precision,” says Group Sales and Audience Development Manager Mary Kate Martin. ”Elevate your plans, impress your guests, and let the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra set the perfect tone for an unforgettable night.”
To learn more about all the group amenities or to book your experience, contact the Group Sales Office at [email protected], (410) 783-8170, or visit bsomusic.org/group-sales.
Baltimore Symphony Orchestra | bsomusic.org, (410) 783-8170
The Music Center at Strathmore | strathmore.org, (301) 581-5199
New Jersey
The Star of the Show
At Adventure Aquarium, two hippos make a splash
Button and Genny are two hippos who welcomed ABA Marketplace attendees to Adventure Aquarium during Sunday night’s all-delegate event.
The giant Pacific octopus is one of the largest octopuses in the world, with eight arms and more than 2,000 suction cups.
A big thank you to the New Jersey Division of Travel & Tourism, who sponsored “The Jersey WOW Experience” at Adventure Aquarium during ABA’s Marketplace.
Yes, there are hippos at an aquarium. Yes, hippos are land mammals (the third largest, to be exact). But both species of hippopotamus (large and pygmy) have webbed toes that allow them to adapt to semi-aquatic environments. That’s why two very special hippos have made their home at New Jersey’s Adventure Aquarium, an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA), located just minutes from downtown Philadelphia on the Camden Waterfront.
ABA’s 2025 Marketplace attendees were welcomed by Button and Genny—the only hippos in the world to be exhibited at an aquarium—at Sunday night’s New Jersey-sponsored all-delegate “WOW” event as the hippos bounced gracefully through the water of Hippo Haven.
In fact, Adventure Aquarium is home to a vast collection of aquatic species and unparalleled experiences across 200,000 square feet of sea life. Groups can experience interactive touch exhibits, up-close animal encounters, the largest collection of sharks in the Northeast, and the longest shark bridge in the world. Touch stingrays at the Stingray Beach Club; see a colony of endangered African penguins at Penguin Park; stand in awe of both little blue penguins (the smallest species of penguin in the world) and a giant Pacific octopus.
Held to the highest standards in animal care and exhibition, Adventure Aquarium knows how to take care of animals, and it also knows how to handle groups. Amenities include group pricing, boxed lunches and meal vouchers, educational programs, bus parking, and even sample itineraries to help guide you through the exhibits and experiences based on your time schedule. Of course, you’ll want to save some time for browsing the gift shop, complete with sea creature-themed apparel, collectibles, toys, books, and more. You can even contribute toward the aquarium’s conservation efforts by “adopting” an animal or purchasing penguin-made artwork created by the African penguins themselves.
To learn more about making Adventure Aquarium a stop on your group tour, visit adventureaquarium.com/groups or email [email protected].
Adventure Aquarium | adventureaquarium.com, (844) 474-3474
New York
Villa Roma Resort & Conference Center
Warm and cozy all year long
With its beautiful setting, diverse activities, and welcoming atmosphere, Villa Roma Resort is a fantastic choice for motorcoach groups looking to create lasting memories.
At the Villa Roma Resort, groups can choose from seven unique on-site dining options, from the elegant main dining room to the Ski Chalet Snack Bar.
“There’s so much to do on property, but it’s also a great place for relaxation,” says Kelly Mullally, group sales manager at Villa Roma Resort.
Kick off your evening early at Marty’s Lounge for happy hour from 5–6 p.m.
Nestled in the picturesque Catskill Mountains of New York, Villa Roma Resort is an ideal destination for motorcoach groups seeking a blend of relaxation, entertainment, and adventure. This all-inclusive resort offers a warm welcome and comfortable accommodations, ensuring a memorable stay for every guest.
“Working in sales at the Villa Roma is a joy because it’s more than just a resort—it’s a beloved getaway nestled in the beautiful, rolling hills of the Sullivan County Catskills,” says Kelly Mullally, group sales manager. “We offer delicious dining, endless activities, vast facilities, and live entertainment every day, all wrapped in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.”
Upon arrival, groups are greeted with a delightful coffee and cake reception, setting the tone for a pleasant experience. The resort boasts a wide array of activities, from indoor and outdoor bocce and shuffleboard tournaments to water aerobics, arts and crafts, and dance classes. The daily activity schedule—curated by the enthusiastic Social Director, Doc Holiday—ensures there’s never a dull moment.
Villa Roma’s dining options are equally impressive, with everything from casual poolside snacks to upscale dining in the main dining room.
The resort’s nightly entertainment includes live music, comedy shows, karaoke, and more, providing ample opportunities for fun and socializing.
For those looking to explore the great outdoors, Villa Roma offers hiking trails, fishing ponds, a championship golf course, skiing, snowtubing, and more. The resort’s indoor and outdoor pools, along with Jacuzzis and spa services, provide perfect spots for relaxation after a day of activities.
Add an extra layer of excitement to your trip with offsite visits arranged by the resort to nearby attractions, such as Bethel Woods Center for the Arts, a museum and cultural center located at the site of the 1969 Woodstock festival.
“I love hosting groups and seeing familiar faces return,” says Mullally. “There’s a timeless charm at Villa Roma that keeps guests coming back year after year, making them feel like family. Whether it’s adventure or relaxation you seek, there’s something at Villa Roma for everyone, and my team and I can’t wait to welcome you!”
For more information about group packages and reservations, including student groups, day trips and matinee shows, contact Mullally at (845) 887-5014 or [email protected].
Villa Roma Resort & Conference Center | villaroma.com, (800) 533-6767
Pennsylvania
Brandywine Valley Artscape
Discover art in all its forms on this PA getaway
The new West Conservatory at Longwood Gardens features Mediterranean-inspired gardens set amid pools, canals, and fountains in an exquisite tapestry-like design.
The new West Conservatory at Longwood Gardens features Mediterranean-inspired gardens set amid pools, canals, and fountains in an exquisite tapestry-like design.
“Groups will enjoy culinary arts beyond compare from the Mushroom Capital, Kennett Square; new stunning dining options at Longwood Gardens; and much more,” says Nina Kelly, director of marketing and communications at Chester County Tourism.
“We welcome everyone to explore hidden gems along with world-renowned attractions such as the Brandywine Museum of Art,” adds Nina Kelly.
People’s Light professional theater is celebrating 50 years in 2025.
The Wharton Esherick Museum is where, for 40 years, Wharton Esherick expressed his deep connection to the natural world through his wood sculptures and paintings.
Nestled in southeastern Pennsylvania and less than an hour’s drive from both Philadelphia and Lancaster, Chester County is home to lush countryside, vibrant farms, historic gardens, extraordinary architecture, and charming towns that have been inspiring artists for centuries.
One such artist is Andrew Wyeth (1917–2009), who captured the beauty of the people, architecture, and landscape of the Brandywine Valley throughout his long career. The youngest son of legendary illustrator N.C. Wyeth, Andrew learned to paint in his father’s studio in Chadds Ford, and today his paintings—as well as the artwork of several other members of the Wyeth family—are on display at the Brandywine Museum of Art. A restored 19th-century gristmill, the museum showcases a collection of American art and is one of many attractions of the Brandywine Valley Artscape.
“Chester County’s Brandywine Valley is a landscape defined by the arts,” says Nina Kelly, director of marketing and communications at Chester County Tourism. “We invite groups to discover the works and studios of renowned artists, stunning gardens and estates with rich histories, theatrical performances, festivals, and immersive experiences that take visitors behind the region’s captivating canvases.”
Chester County’s Brandywine Valley is a convenient stop for groups traveling between New York City and Washington, D.C. Schedule lunch or dinner at Brandywine Prime, whose culinary masterpieces and historic stone cottage atmosphere delight groups.
Below are just a few of the other museums and experiences found on an Artscape itinerary that will inspire groups of all ages and interests on their next visit to the Brandywine Valley.
- Take a guided tour of the Wharton Esherick Museum, a National Historic Landmark for Architecture and the studio/residence of wood sculptor Wharton Esherick.
- New for 2025, Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square introduced Longwood Reimagined: A New Garden Experience featuring the breathtaking 32,000-square-foot glass West Conservatory.
- Kelly Benedict, sales manager at People’s Light in Malvern, would love to help you plan your group experience at this professional, nonprofit theater and cultural center. Just call her at (610) 647-1900, ext. 111 or email [email protected] and she’ll arrange advanced seat reservations, concession discounts, dining, special events, and more.
- Did you know the Brandywine Valley supplies about half of all mushrooms grown in the U.S.? Learn about the art of growing mushrooms, purchase local mushrooms and unique gifts, and even sample some mushroom soup at Phillips Mushroom Farm or one of the many mushroom farms throughout the region.
For more trip inspiration, visit brandywinevalley.com/groups or contact Courtney Babcock, director of sales at Chester County’s Brandywine Valley, at [email protected] or (484) 840-7213.
Brandywine Valley | brandywinevalley.com, (484) 770-8550
Rhode Island
South County’s Sensational Coastline
Yes, this is real life
Atlantis RIsing is a three-day, international sand sculpture competition that includes vendors, live music, sand-sculpting lessons, and more.
A quintessential New England itinerary of South County, R.I., includes gallons of homemade ice cream; fresh, local seafood; and miles of beautiful sandy beaches.
Greta Granite and Erik Rock are the first Thomas Dambo trolls to be built and on display in the Ocean State. See these creatures made from repurposed materials like wood, shells, straw, rocks, and more at Ninigret Park.
South County is the reason Rhode Island is known as the Ocean State. With 100 miles of coastline featuring 20 public beaches, this classic New England getaway is as relaxing as a seaside vacation gets.
Located on the southernmost edge of Rhode Island and easily accessible to Providence, Boston, and New York City, South County offers groups plenty to do beyond the beaches. On the water, boating, kayaking, and canoeing take nature lovers to inlet waterways. In the air, private helicopter rides offer a bird’s-eye view of the area. Lush forests and wildlife preserves have miles of hiking and biking trails that groups can enjoy, and you won’t want to miss Ninigret Park’s newest residents, Erik Rock and Greta Granite, two giant trolls made of salvaged wood by internationally renowned recycle artist, Thomas Dambo.
A day of outdoor adventure means fresh, local seafood and farm-to-table fare are necessary for refueling. From unlimited lobster at The Nordic to fish and chips at the 40th annual Charlestown Chamber of Commerce Seafood Festival (Aug. 1–3 at Ninigret Park), you’ll be re-energized and ready to immerse yourself in museums, historical sites, and activities that tell of South County’s rich Native American, agricultural, and maritime history.
“Groups of all ages and interests will enjoy our many events that take place throughout the year, including the annual sand sculpture competition, Atlantis RIsing,” says Louise Bishop, president and CEO of the South County Tourism Council. “This family-friendly event features artists from around the world competing for a cash prize for their sand sculptures. Live music, food vendors, local artisans, sand-sculpting lessons, and a cast of characters for photo opportunities abound.”
For a list of sample itineraries, group-friendly dining and lodging, and a calendar of events, travel planners can visit southcountyri.com. Download the Visitors Guide, featuring new and notable attractions, hidden gems, seasonal happenings, and unique-to-South County experiences, at southcountyri.com/plan-a-trip. And of course, the team at the South County Tourism Council is just a phone call away at (401) 789-4422 and ready to help you customize your group tour.
South County Tourism Council | southcountyri.com, (401) 789-4422
Vermont
Vermont’s Ultimate Foodie Experience
Sweet, savory, and scenic
Motorcoach parking, hop-on guides, and samples of apple cider are all free at Cold Hollow Cider Mill in Waterbury Center. Just keep in mind that advance reservations are required. Visit coldhollow.com/pages/request-form.
Groups will receive hands-on instruction tailored to every level of skill when they take cooking classes at the Essex Resort and Spa.
Allow at least one hour for your visit to Ben & Jerry’s in Waterbury, the only Ben & Jerry’s factory open to the public. Enjoy a guided tour, retail shop, Scoop Shop, Flavor Graveyard, and more.
Vermont’s culinary scene is a food lover’s dream, blending history, flavor, and local charm in every bite. Lunch and learn with some of Vermont’s specialty foods makers, an experience that will leave your guests savoring Vermont.
Start at Cold Hollow Cider Mill, where sweetness and sustainability collide. Enjoy a sample of fresh apple cider while watching their vintage rack-and-cloth cider press in action. Get a taste of their cider donuts, pies, and other treats fresh from the bakery, and remember to stop by their live observation beehive to learn about the importance of pollinators.
Curious for more? Head to the Cook Academy at The Essex for hands-on culinary fun. Master kitchen fundamentals from knife skills workshops, cake decorating, or curating a dinner experience, you’ll learn from culinary experts in one of New England’s top resorts.
Dive into Vermont’s sweetest tradition at Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks, steeped in over 200 years of family history and maple syrup expertise. Sample sugar on snow and maple creemees and stroll the maple trail through sugaring trees. You’ll also find seasonal specialty foods, produce, and plenty of Vermont-made gifts.
Finish your trip with a stop at the iconic Ben & Jerry’s Factory. Learn about their history, discover how they put progressive values into action, watch the ice cream being made, sample their famous flavors, and end your experience with a scoop in the Flavor Room.
For additional information about these stops and more, contact Marc Plouffe, tourism sales account executive at the Vermont Tourism Network, at [email protected].
Vermont Tourism Network | vermonttourismnetwork.com, (802) 828-7907
Washington, D.C.
Smithsonian Museum Cafés
Where convenience meets quality
Convenient, on-site dining options and a variety of seasonal and themed menus keep your group on schedule and well-fed during their Smithsonian Museum visit.
For groups interested in dining at Sweet Home Café, housed in the National Museum of African American History and Culture, group meal vouchers are available for advance purchase through Smithsonian Enterprises Group Sales.
With spacious seating and a variety of group-friendly dining options, the Smithsonian Museum Cafés are a convenient way to enjoy great food in an inspiring setting. Not only will you be able to maximize your time by eliminating the need to travel to outside dining locations, you’ll also stay immersed in the museum experience through diverse menus that are inspired by history, culture, and sustainability.
Crafted in-house with locally sourced ingredients, each meal guarantees the highest quality of freshness, flavor, and choices sure to please every palate and preference. View the oldest locomotive still capable of operation and Thomas Edison’s phonograph before enjoying a craft burger at the National Museum of American History. Try a chicken tostada or bowl of bison chili after exploring the nearly 10,000-square-foot “Americans” exhibit at the National Museum of the American Indian. These Smithsonian Museum Cafés and more are ready to welcome groups with unique dining experiences and pricing options, including discounted lunch and dinner vouchers and private meal programs:
- National Museum of American History: Eat at America’s Table
- National Museum of Natural History: Atrium Café
- National Museum of African American History and Culture: Sweet Home Café
- National Museum of the American Indian: Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe
- Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture: Courtyard Café
To learn more about Smithsonian’s Group Sales and Reservations, including both dining and theater experiences, visit si.edu/groupsales or call the office Monday–Friday from 10 a.m.–4 p.m. ET at (202) 633-4629.
Smithsonian Enterprise Group | si.edu/groupsales, (202) 633-4629
Restaurant Associates | restaurantassociates.com, [email protected]
Photo credits: South County Tourism Council; Todd Ballantyne; Becca Mathias; Lafayette Hotels; BSO; Music Center at Strathmore; American Bus Association; Villa Roma Resort; Albert Vecerka/Esto; Sahar Coston-Hardy/Esto; Chester County’s Brandywine Valley; Chester County’s Brandywine Valley; People’s Light; South County Tourism Council; Cold Hollow Cider Mill; Cook Academy; Ben & Jerry’s; Restaurant Associates
Groups flock to the Northeast during leaf-peeping season, beach season, and holiday season, but you’ll be surprised to learn about some exciting, lesser-known off-season experiences, too.
