Compare On the Road: Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket by Road Scholar vs USA Road Trip — Highway 1, Yosemite & Utah by G Adventures

Day 1
Check-In, Registration, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Boston, MA D Embassy Suites by Hilton Boston at Logan Airport
Activity note: Hotel check-in from 3:00 p.m.

Afternoon: Program Registration. After you have your room assignment, come over to the Road Scholar table to register with program staff and get your welcome packet containing your up-to-date schedule that reflects any changes, other important information, and to confirm when and where the Orientation session will take place. Please remember to bring your name-tag sent with this packet to the program. If you arrive late, ask for your packet when you check in. Orientation. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Everyone will be responsible for their luggage, with some assistance available. Transportation will be provided by a variety of vehicles including (but not limited to) ferries, taxi vans, motorcoaches, and “safari” style trucks. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding. This is a Road Scholar FLEX program. In contrast to our traditional programs, it offers extensive time for personal independent exploration and a number of meals on your own to enjoy the cuisine of your choice. On the Road programs are journeys that take participants to multiple study sites in a region with a number of overnight stays. Lectures, talks, discussions, field trips, and on-board commentary amplify the program theme. Some journeys involve great distances, while others are much shorter. Long or short, On the Road journeys are learning experiences that make the most of our time together.

Dinner: At the hotel, we will enjoy a buffet meal, plus coffee, tea, water.

Evening: At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, get a good night’s rest, and prepare to check out in the morning.

Day 2
Ferry to MV, Walk to Tabernacle, Introduction to Oak Bluffs
Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard B,L,D Dockside Inn
Activity note: Climbing up and down stairs between ferry walk-on level and passenger level. Walk through the Camp Meeting Association grounds is up to 1 mile; standing for about 1 hour; flat pavement.

Breakfast: Buffet at the hotel, breakfast choices include: oatmeal, cereal, fruit, eggs, toast and pastries, plus coffee, tea, water.

Morning: We will transfer to Woods Hole in the town of Falmouth, Massachusetts, on the far southwest corner of Cape Cod. There we will board the ferry to Oak Bluffs on Martha's Vineyard. The ferry crosses the 7 miles between the mainland and the island in approximately 45 minutes. The vessels of the Steamship Authority — a lifeline to the Islands — are functional with basic amenities.

Lunch: On the ferry we’ll have boxed lunches.

Afternoon: Arriving at the Oak Bluffs ferry terminal, we will be picked up by hotel vans and brought to the hotel to drop off luggage before our field trip. We’ll walk with the Group Leader to the Oak Bluffs Camp Meeting Association and the historic Tabernacle at its center. Led by a resident docent, we’ll stroll through the campground to learn about the “gingerbread” cottages and the residents who carefully maintain and decorate them. What we will see today grew out of Methodist camp meetings that began in 1835.

Dinner: At a local restaurant, plated and served with coffee, tea, and water.

Evening: At leisure. You might like to set off on your own and walk back through the campground, relax on the green of one of Oak Bluffs many parks, or just watch boats in the marina set out to sea.

Day 3
Explore the 6 towns of Martha’s Vineyard
Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard B,L Dockside Inn
Activity note: Getting in/out of vans; walking up to 1 mile; standing for about 1 hour.

Breakfast: Buffet at the hotel. Choices include: hard boiled eggs, breads, pastries, oatmeal, cereals, milk, jam, butter, yogurt, whole fruit, juices, coffee, tea & water.

Morning: Accompanied by resident experts, we’ll set out in vans to explore the island of Martha’s Vineyard. Take in the historic "up-Island" farming communities of West Tisbury, Aquinnah, and Chilmark, notable for centuries old stone walls, views to the Atlantic shoreline, grazing livestock, rolling hills and historic homesteads. We will make a stop at the beautiful multi-colored clay cliffs in Aquinnah as well. The "down-Island" towns we will pass through include Edgartown, Oak Bluffs, and Vineyard Haven (also called Tisbury). In Edgartown, we'll have the opportunity to visit the Martha's Vineyard History Museum.

Lunch: At a local restaurant, plated and served with coffee, tea, and water.

Afternoon: Vineyard Haven is a historic shipping port. While walking through town with a local expert, we’ll learn about its inhabitants, unique history, resiliency and transition over the centuries to the charming small town of today. Free time. Take this opportunity for personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most. You may stroll through the old wharf, shipyard, historic district, art galleries, and quiet lanes. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.

Dinner: This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions and give directions.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 4
Chappaquiddick Island, African & Native American History
Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard B Dockside Inn
Activity note: Walking up to 2 miles, standing up to an hour; getting on/off Chappy Ferry; riding in open “safari” type vehicles for 1.5 hours. Bring water bottle, hat, sunscreen. Field trips operate rain or shine except during thunderstorms and extreme wind conditions.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We’ll transfer via taxi vans from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown and take the Chappaquiddick Ferry across the 527 feet of water over to an island that is technically a peninsula. There, we’ll hop aboard “safari” trucks for an exploration of the Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge, with its beautiful views of ocean, sound, and harbor. We’ll learn the history of the Cape Poge lighthouse, originally built in 1801, the second on the Vineyard, and stroll through the Japanese style Mytoi garden that surrounds a verdant inland freshwater pond. Returning to Edgartown via the Chappy Ferry, the remainder of the early afternoon is free for independent exploration.

Lunch: On your own to enjoy what you like.

Afternoon: We’ll regroup at a designated meeting spot and board vans for an expert-led informational exploration to learn about African American and Native American history of the area.

Dinner: On your own to enjoy what you like in Oak Bluffs.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 5
Historic Cape Cod, Sandwich, Glass Museum, Dexter Grist Mill
Hyannis, MA B,L,D Hyannis Harbor Hotel
Activity note: Total walking distance for the day is up to 2 miles; participants are responsible for their own luggage during ferry transfer; 45 minute ferry crossing; total drive distance is 40 miles.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: We will transfer via ferry from Oak Bluffs back to Woods Hole on the mainland. Enjoy a scenic drive on the Cape from Woods Hole to our final destination of Hyannis, MA. Although just one of seven villages in the town of Barnstable, Hyannis is the hub of commercialization on Cape Cod and referred to by some as the "Capital of the Cape". En route we will stop to experience several gems of Upper and Mid Cape Cod.

Lunch: At a local seafood shack with many options available.

Afternoon: Settled in 1637 and incorporated as a town just two years later, Sandwich boasts its status as the oldest town on Cape Cod. We will visit the Sandwich Glass Museum for a glass blowing demonstration and see how the museum has promoted a broad understanding and appreciation of Sandwich town history, with particular emphasis on the unique contribution of the glass industry to the local community. We'll take a short walk to visit the Dexter Grist Mill and explore the grounds around Shawme Pond with commentary from a local expert. Thomas Dexter built the first grist mill on this site in 1654 so that the inhabitants of the village of Sandwich would not have to grind their own corn for cornmeal, their staple food.

Dinner: A short walk from the hotel in Hyannis, we will enjoy a plated meal with coffee, tea, water; other beverages available for purchase.

Evening: At leisure.

Day 6
Exploring Nantucket, Whaling Museum
Hyannis, MA B,L Hyannis Harbor Hotel
Activity note: The Ferry to Nantucket is located a few walkable blocks from the hotel. Activities on the island require walking up to 2 miles (about 1.5 hours).

Breakfast: Buffet at the Bluewater Grill Hotel Restaurant at the hotel.

Morning: We will walk to the nearby dock and board the ferry to Nantucket. Upon disembarking, we'll meet a local expert from the Nantucket Historical Association for a narrated walk through the town center. See the architecture and hear the stories of the houses and the families that lived in them to illustrate the island’s history.

Lunch: At a local restaurant, plated and served, includes coffee, tea, water.

Afternoon: Explore the Nantucket Whaling Museum on your own. Housed in a restored 1847 candle factory, highlights include a 46-foot sperm whale skeleton that floats suspended from the ceiling, and a rooftop observation deck offering views of Nantucket harbor. Freetime. With the information we learned on the morning walk and at the Museum, choose which locales you would like to further explore. You may want to take some time on your own to go “laning” (walking the lanes of the historic district of Nantucket) before our ferry transfer back to Hyannis.

Dinner: On your own to explore local fare. Hyannis, like the rest of New England, is known for delicious seafood and clam "chowdah", as well as other dining options that cater to most preferences.

Evening: At leisure. Take this opportunity to walk along Main Street Hyannis, visit the local brewery, or listen to the waves down at the beach.

Day 7
Lower Cape Cod, Salt Pond Visitor Center, Provincetown
Hyannis, MA B,L,D Hyannis Harbor Hotel
Activity note: Full day of motorcoach exploration with frequent stops; one way distance 50 miles— 75-90 minutes drive time; 4-wheel driving on soft but bumpy sand dunes.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet.

Morning: At the hotel, we will hear from a local expert about the history of Cape Cod. Continue to learn on a full day exploration of Cape Cod from Hyannis all the way to the tip of the cape in Provincetown. Take in the changing landscape through small towns, historic lighthouses and coastal harbors. Along the way, we will stop and explore the Salt Pond Visitor Center, which is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. Independently, you may walk the nature trails while learning about the different wildlife and conservation efforts along the National Seashore.

Lunch: At a local seafood restaurant, plus coffee, tea, water.

Afternoon: We will visit the Highland Lighthouse, Cape Cod's first lighthouse and Highland House Museum, a former hotel built on the Highlands in 1907. Learn about the fascinating people who settled in Truro dating back to early European settlers and the Native Americans who preceded them. If you're feeling ambitious, climb the 69 steps to the top of the Highland Lighthouse. We will go off-roading with local experts through the sand dunes of Cape Cod National Seashore in specially-authorized four-wheel-drive Jeeps. We will begin this adventure in Provincetown or “P-town,” as the locals call it. Sitting on the outermost part of the cape, P-town has some interesting history— Did you know that the Pilgrims, before settling in Plymouth, first landed in Provincetown? Today it has become known for its lively art scene that enhances the culture of the rest of Cape Cod.

Dinner: At a favorite local restaurant that highlights the unique atmosphere of Provincetown. Plated and served with coffee, tea, and water.

Evening: Return to Hyannis and prepare for departure in the morning.

Day 8
Program Concludes, Transfer to Boston
Hyannis, MA B
Activity note: Transfer departs Hyannis Harbor Hotel at 8:30 a.m. to Boston Logan International Airport. Please do not schedule flights before 12:30 p.m. Hotel check-out time is 11:00 a.m.

Breakfast: Hotel buffet. This concludes our program. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!

Day 1 Los Angeles/Santa Margarita

Group will depart Los Angeles in the morning and drive to Santa Monica. Walk the iconic Santa Monica pier this morning or spend some time cruising the shoreline. Not in the mood for the beach? That's cool, maybe consider visiting the Santa Monica farmers market to stock up on all sorts of local goodies. Grab a quick bite to eat for lunch in Santa Monica and travel northwest to San Luis Obispo for a quick detour to see the chewing gum alley and to grab any last minute provisions before heading to our campsite for the night.

Day 2 Santa Margarita/Santa Cruz

Today is all about Highway 1. Devote the entire day to seeing the best of the best along this famous route. Stop to see Elephant Seals, walk through Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, and make stops in Carmel and Monterey en route to the next destination. Later in the day set up camp in Santa Cruz.

Due to road damage, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park will be closed until further notice. Alternative routes and stops will be added between Santa Margarita and Santa Cruz during this time.

Day 3 Santa Cruz/San Francisco

Head out from camp in the morning and continue up Highway 1 towards Half Moon Bay. Your CEO will take you on a brief orientation of the city. The rest of the day is at your leisure.

Join your CEO for a driving tour through some of San Francisco's most iconic highlights then hit the town on your own or join a sunset sail under the Golden Gate Bridge.

Day 4 San Francisco/Yosemite National Park

Leave San Francisco behind this morning as you drive to Yosemite National Park. Along the way stop for some fresh produce at a farmer’s market in the central valley. Once in the park hike to Tuolumne Grove to see massive Giant Sequoias. Finish the day with a stop to see El Capitan and Bridalveil Fall en route to your camp for the night.

Day 5 Yosemite National Park

Enjoy free time to navigate the majestic Yosemite Valley at your own pace. Walk the Lower Yosemite Fall Trail or Swinging Bridge Loop Trail. Relax under the towering granite monoliths of Half Dome or El Capitan. Up for more of a challenge? Test your endurance on a more challenging hike like Upper Yosemite Falls or Four Mile. On the way back to camp, search for climbers on the sheer rock face of El Capitan.

Yosemite Village is a great starting point for launching into your adventure. Your CEO will help you get oriented to visit the Ansel Adams gallery, Ahwahnee Museum and the Yosemite Visitor Center. Here you can start a valley hike or catch a free shuttle around the park.

Day 6 Yosemite National Park

Today is all about getting active and exploring the landscapes of Yosemite. Head out on a hike to Vernal or Nevada Falls or opt to rent bikes and cruise around the valley. This park is a hiker’s paradise filled with different options for every skill level. From miles of trekking to short walks featuring amazing views, you won’t have a hard time finding a trail to set out on and enjoy. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife and make sure to take plenty of pictures. In the evening relax around the fire and swap stories with your group.

Day 7 Yosemite National Park/Hermosa Beach

Bid farewell to Yosemite this morning and get ready for some ocean waves and sand between your toes as the group heads south to Hermosa Beach. Travel through the rolling hills and vastness of the Central Valley and arrive at the Pacific coast just in time to walk the beach during golden hour and grab some delicious dinner by the sea.

After the forests of Yosemite the beaches of southern California will be a welcome change for some time to relax and recharge. So suit up, grab a towel, find a volleyball, and live out those California beach fantasies with your friends.

Day 8 Hermosa Beach

Live the California dream as you wake up to the distant sound of waves crashing against the sand. Then, suit up and get ready for your surf lesson where you'll learn a thing or two about what it takes to make riding those waves look so easy. Afterwards, enjoy free time on Hermosa Beach to lounge in the sun, walk out to the pier, or find a beachfront cafe with a table outside for some people watching. Or choose to rent bikes or surf boards and continue the adventure. Your only dilemma today should be deciding which burrito place you want to eat at.

Day 9 Hermosa Beach/Joshua Tree National Park

Depart the coast for the desert today, travelling through Los Angeles on the journey eastward to explore Joshua Tree National Park. Climb through the park’s famous rock formations and make sure to get some photos of the park's namesake tree as the sun lights up this desolate landscape.

Day 10 Joshua Tree National Park/Grand Canyon National Park

Drive down the famed Route 66 today as we cruise further east to the Grand Canyon. Get ready to see breathtaking views with arguably the best sunset you have ever seen overlooking the Grand Canyon. Kick off those shoes, sit back, relax, and enjoy one of nature’s finest performances. Enjoy a cheesy slice of pizza or two overlooking the Grand Canyon during sunset.

Day 11 Grand Canyon

Get up close and personal with the Grand Canyon as you spend the day hiking from the South Rim. There are a variety of hikes to choose from that will take you deeper into the canyon where you can really appreciate the size and depth of this national park. Choose whichever trail you wish or do short bursts of multiple hikes, just make sure you bring plenty of water and take your time.

Opt to book the Grand Canyon helicopter ride for a bird's-eye view during a 45 to 50 minutes flight over the canyon.

Day 12 Grand Canyon/Page/Bryce Canyon

Journey onwards from the Grand Canyon to Page, Arizona, the site of Lake Powell. There will be free time here. Opt to join a local Navajo guide and explore Antelope Canyon; a stunning natural sandstone slot canyon located on tribal lands. Then, lace up those hiking boots for a visit to Horseshoe Bend, a geological masterpiece that has been sculpted by the Colorado River. Walk to the overlook where you can hike along the rim and stare down into the flowing river far below. Snap some photos with your friends and just enjoy the moment. Finish the day with a picturesque drive to your camp in Bryce Canyon.

Day 13 Bryce Canyon

After a camp breakfast head out for a short drive into Bryce Canyon National Park. Once in the park, take advantage of your free time to hike through the wild and weird rock formations known as hoodoos. Opt to visit Inspiration Point, hit the rim trail, horseback ride, or hike the Queen’s Garden and Navajo loop trails to see sites like Thor’s Hammer and Wall Street. At night stargaze in a park known for its night skies.

Day 14 Bryce Canyon/Zion National Park

We pack up early this morning and move on towards Zion and our Glamping tents! Located in a private canyon away from civilization, but close to Zion National Park this location is made for outdoor enthusiasts who also like to be pampered a little. On route to camp we will make a stop at the lesser-known Coral Pink Sand Dunes and enjoy a scenic overlook of Utah’s surrounding landscape on the Colorado Plateau. It’s a unique geological feature that you shouldn’t miss. You’ll have free time in the afternoon and evening to become acquainted with your surroundings. Maybe hike the Water Canyon trail or enjoy camp and put on a cornhole tournament as a group. The only rule is to have a good time!

Day 15 Zion National Park

It’s all about Zion today as you get a chance to wander this beautiful national park in Southwest Utah. Take the shuttle into the park and spend the day exploring and hiking with your fellow travelers. Admire the monumental sandstone cliffs of cream, pink, and red that tower into the sky and remember you can choose to turn around on these hikes at any point. In the evening enjoy leisure time back at our Glamping tents. Once it gets dark get ready to sit around the campfire and roast some marshmallows as a group.

Day 16 Zion National Park/Las Vegas

This morning opt to get in one last activity at our Glamping site if you ran out of time yesterday or simply relax in the wild surroundings. Then the group will drive from Zion to Las Vegas where the tour ends on arrival.