Trip Planner 2016-17 Trip Planner For Group Leaders

Sightseeing Compiled by Pat Henderson Tracing its roots back to 1846, when its namesake ship first traversed the Niagara River, Maid of the Mist is known for its legendary tours to the base of Niagara Falls. Voyages during the first two years transported people, cargo and mail, but by 1848 the company had turned its focus to sightseeing cruises that still operate to this day. The sailing season typically goes from April to November, with multiple departures being offered each day. The half-hour tours run every 15 minutes and depart from the boat dock in Niagara Falls. The 600-passenger boats head out on the Niagara River near Rainbow Bridge before going by the American Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. As they approach Horseshoe Falls, passengers can begin to feel the mist of the rushing waters. During peak periods in the summer and fall, more than 700,000 gallons of water per second flow over Niagara Falls. The tour price also includes one of the company’s signature blue rain ponchos. To learn more, contact Maid of the Mist’s Vice President of Marketing Tim Ruddy at truddy@ maidofthemist.com or visit maidofthemist.com. Maid of the Mist boat ride at Niagara Falls A RAIL OF A TIME THECOG.COM STRASBURGRAILROAD.COM A trip on a train offers passengers a chance to soak up scenery at a slower pace while enjoying a throwback sense of adventure. Thanks to the following three NTA members in New Hampshire and Pennsylvania, travelers can explore the beauty and history of the northeastern U.S. from the seat of a vintage railcar. DEBBIE HILL MAID OF THE MIST READY FOR A SPRAY-CATION? Conway Scenic Railroad North Conway, New Hampshire conwayscenic.com The Mount Washington Cog Railway Mount Washington, New Hampshire thecog.com Strasburg Rail Road Company Strasburg, Pennsylvania strasburgrailroad.com Groups can book sightseeing rides on Conway Scenic’s Notch Train, which goes through the bluffs and ravines near Crawford Notch, and the Valley Train, which chugs through the Moat Mountains to either Bartlett or Conway. Holiday and special event excursions also are offered throughout the year. The company’s three-hour excursion takes travelers to the 6,288-foot summit of New Hampshire’s highest mountain. As part of the ride, groups can enjoy expansive views of the White Mountains and hear the history of the line, which dates back to 1869 and was the world’s first mountain-climbing cog railway. Amish farms and the history of Lancaster County are highlighted during Strasburg’s sightseeing excursions. In addition to the train trip, groups can go on a behind-the-scenes tour of the line’s mechanical shop and visit the Railroad Museum, which has more than 100 locomotives and rail cars on display. ntaonline.com 57

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