Mary Oliver Tour in New York

Your educational student tour has begun as your plane begins its descent into New York City. Look out of your window to see the state’s expansive cityscape. A local guide will be waiting at the airport to bring you to your hotel in the city center. 

Take some time to rest and unpack, then the rest of the afternoon is free time. Order room service, check out the hotel’s gift shop, or take a walk around the city. In the evening, you will meet with your local guides for dinner at the hotel restaurant. Take this time to get to know your guides and ask questions about your upcoming schedule.

Welcome to New York City, where the famous poet Mary Oliver had her poems published. The city is also where she was named “far and away, the country’s best poet” by the New York Times. We couldn’t think of a better place to study Oliver. Start the day as you will every day on this trip – with breakfast and a poem analysis. Today you will be analyzing “The Journey,” which relates to identity and self-worth. 

Now that you’re inspired, it’s time to journey through New York City yourself. Board your luxury coach to visit the city’s most iconic sights and attractions. You’ll start by visiting Rockefeller Center and Grand Central Terminal. Take a break at the Strawberry Fields in Central Park for street food for lunch and a stroll. Next, you’re off to Wall Street, Madison Square Park, and the 9/11 Memorial. End the day with a 1-hour cruise of New York Harbor taking in spectacular views of the Manhattan Island and Empire State Building.

Rise and shine for another breakfast and poem. Today, you will be analyzing “Wild Geese,” which is a reminder that we do not always have to be right – guilt, shame, confessions are things we can let go. Next, prepare yourself for an exciting day as you jump on a ferry to make your way to Liberty Island. Be sure to head to the top deck for the best views! As you arrive, enjoy breathtaking views of the city! Take a guided tour to the top of the torch while a local guide tells you about this famous icon. Next, cruise to Ellis Island to enjoy lunch before following in the footsteps of over 10 million immigrants. Walk the “stairs of separation” where immigrants could either be detained and separated from their families, or released to a new life in NYC. You’ll thus learn the true impact of the island’s two names  – “The Island of Tears” and “The Island of Hope.” End the day with a tour of the museum and free time to explore.

This morning, you’ll be analyzing Oliver’s poem, “Mindful,” which encourages us to stay in the present moment. Strive for that on today’s excursion as you get a break from the bustling city. Climb onto your luxury coach for a ride to Philadelphia to discover City Hall, the Constitution Center, Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, the Betsy Ross House, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art. After a busy morning, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Continue to the quiet Amish country in Lancaster. Learn about a day in the life of Amish people and ride on a horse-drawn carriage. Discover handmade arts and crafts, and appreciate the simple life of the Amish.

This morning, you’ll enjoy a buffet breakfast and read through “Song of the Boulders.” Next, make your way to Brooklyn Poets Yawp for a writer’s workshop. You’ll have the opportunity to create a compelling poem just like Oliver. In the afternoon, make your way to Manhattan’s West Village for a food tour! Start with a taste of Italy with a creamy cannoli and Neapolitan pizza. Walk over to Polish neighborhood for some pierogies and kielbasa. Next, arrive at the DUMBO district near the Manhattan Bridge to take a break from food with a stroll. Learn about the area’s history and culture as you walk. End the day at Jacques Torres chocolate factory to satisfy your sweet tooth. You’ll be sure to head to bed with a full tummy after this delicious day.

It’s your final day in New York! Let’s make it one to remember. Take the morning off from analyzing poem’s to make your way to the downtown heliport to lift off on a private helicopter tour. Soak up breathtaking views of the Woolworth Building, Statue of Liberty, and One World Trade Center from the air. After a 3-hour tour of the Big Apple, it’s time to touch down. Make your way to Times Square to enjoy a fine dining late lunch. Next, you’re off to a Broadway show to watch the best performers in the world sing, dance and act! What a fabulous day!

This week has flown by, and it’s time to leave this beautiful and historic state. Enjoy breakfast with your guides and group before heading to the local airport for your departure flight home.