Explore with Viking—United States

See Honolulu’s sights and explore Pearl Harbor’s Visitor Center for a glimpse into Hawaii’s World War II history. Meet your guide at the pier and embark on a scenic drive through Honolulu’s Downtown area and Chinatown district. Witness the magnificent City Hall and the Iolani Palace, the only royal palace on American soil, and pass by Kawaiahao Church, the Hawaii State Capitol, the governor’s mansion and the homes of early missionaries. After your drive, you will stop at Pearl Harbor, where you will have the opportunity to learn about the fateful attack that took almost 2,500 lives during a self-guided tour of this historic site. At the Visitor Center, stroll the exhibits that document the events before the surprise attack and its aftermath, including displays of personal memorabilia, dramatic photographs and artifacts.

Traverse Oahu during a panoramic excursion and take in the views from the Nu’uana Pali Lookout. Embark on a scenic drive by motor coach through the heart of Waikiki Beach’s resort district. Renowned for surfing and striking views of Diamond Head, its vibrant streets are lined with high-rises, luxury resorts and upscale restaurants. Journey along the coast, making a brief stop at Waimanalo Bay before continuing into the rugged Ko’olau Mountains for a visit to the stunning Nu’uanu Pali Lookout. Feel the strong ocean wind against your face as you gaze out at spectacular views of the island; legend has it that this was the site of a bloody battle won by King Kamehameha I in 1795. Board your coach for the return trip to your ship, your route taking you through the picturesque Ko’olau Mountains en route to Honolulu.

Retrace the steps of the Yukon’s fortune seekers in their 19th-century quest for gold. Begin your exhilarating journey by vintage rail car. Marvel at scenic mountain vistas as you climb to more than 3,000 feet along Alaska’s White Pass summit. Enjoy the thrill of cliff-hanging turns and marvel at this narrow-gauge railroad, constructed more than 100 years ago. Arrive at the summit and witness the unparalleled beauty of an Alaskan landscape comprised of mountains, glaciers, gorges, waterfalls and more. See the original Klondike Trail of 1898 worn into the rocks, a reminder of those who traversed this route in search of gold. Hear tales of the extraordinary lengths to which gold seekers went more than a century ago, and the severe hardships they suffered in the unforgiving northern wilderness. Upon arrival in Skagway, you may explore the town at your leisure or return to your ship.

Witness the magnificent Waimea Canyon, a geological wonder offering dramatic views of Kauai’s interior. Embark on a scenic drive by motor coach to the west side of Kauai and begin your ascent of the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific.” At 14 miles long and 3,400 feet above sea level, the canyon may not be as big or as old as its Arizona cousin, however the vistas are incredible. From the lookout point, enjoy stunning views as you admire the red and brown hues of the volcanic rock, enveloped by tropical vegetation and the deep blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. After time to pause for photographs, continue to Waimea Town, where you can spend time at your leisure to browse the gift shop or enjoy a cup of coffee. En route back to your ship, stop in Kaloa and admire views over Spouting Horn, and hear tales of the legend behind its blowhole.

Discover the coastal community of Ketchikan and learn about the ancient native craft of totem pole carving. Drive by motor coach to Potlatch Totem Park, a modern recreation of a 19th-century native village located on historic Tlingit fishing grounds along the shores of the Tongass Narrows. Here, you can see numerous houses, totem poles and panels, and hear the legends behind the designs. Visit the carving studio to learn about the ancient techniques used to create these iconic native sculptures. You will also have an opportunity to view a display of rare antique weapons, some dating back to the 16th century, including firearms, whaling harpoons and authentic uluknives. After, return to your coach and begin the journey back to your ship—along the way, gain insight into Ketchikan’s rich timber heritage and the historic Ketchikan Pulp Company mill.

Explore the sights of Juneau and visit Mendenhall Valley to stroll its scenic trails with views of its glacier. Embark on a panoramic drive from downtown Juneau to see the city’s highlights. As you approach the Mendenhall Valley, your guide will run through suggested experiences that you can participate in during your time here. You may enjoy the viewpoint from Photo Point at the Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center, which provides a breathtaking perspective of the glacier from above. During your enriching visit, your guide will share stories and insights about the region. After, you can head out to explore one of the nearby scenic trails, including Nugget Creek Falls, Steep Creek or the Moraine Ecology Trail, with each route showcasing the region’s natural wonders and stunning vistas of the Mendenhall Glacier and the Tongass National Forest. Afterward, return to your awaiting ship.

Head to Seward’s renowned Alaska SeaLife Center for independent exploration, compliments of Viking. As you disembark your ship, receive an overview of the varied venues throughout Seward, beautifully set on a mountain-ringed bay. Shuttles will operate between our berth and the marine center, so you may depart and return at your leisure and explore more of Seward if you wish. At the fascinating Alaska SeaLife Center, dedicated to putting visitors in close contact with cutting-edge marine research, admire the species in the public aquarium and learn about the research animals in the exhibit tanks. North Pacific mammals, birds, fish and invertebrates are profiled in the center’s comprehensive displays. Here, you will discover how both injured wild animals and resident animals requiring medical treatment are nursed back to health. Experience the center as long as you wish and return to the pier via our shuttles.

Discover the rugged beauty of Alaska’s wilderness during a scenic excursion around Valdez. Embark on a panoramic drive by motor coach through Valdez, learning about the town’s gold-rush era and visiting Old Town Valdez. You will also hear stories about more contemporary pivotal moments such as the Good Friday earthquake of 1964 and the Exxon Valdez oil spill in 1989 that have shaped this community. Stop for photos at Horsetail and Bridal Veil Falls, their snow and icy meltwaters cascading over towering canyon walls from hundreds of feet above. Depending on the timing of your visit, you may travel to Keystone Canyon, where you will find numerous waterfalls nestled within its steep rock face. Alternatively, you may visit the Solomon Gulch Fish Hatchery to learn about one of Alaska’s most abundant resources, salmon.

Explore the protected waters and rugged coast of Resurrection Bay on board an exclusive Viking-chartered vessel. Nicknamed the “Gateway to the Kenai Fjords,” the bay’s calm waters are home to an abundance of marine and terrestrial wildlife. Board your ship and head out for an opportunity to experience up-close encounters with wildlife as you cruise along massive bird rookeries and past sea lion colonies. Along the way, you will stop to view any passing whale pods or frolicking sea otters. Enjoy a delicious deli-style meal as you admire the alpine glaciers nestled in the surrounding mountain ranges of Chugach and Kenai. Gaze at the blue-tinged ice of Bear Glacier, a 13-mile-long expanse of ice and snow. At the end of your cruise, you will return to the pier and your awaiting ship.

Set off on a scenic journey through Prince William Sound on this cruise to the Columbia Glacier. Embark your boat and witness one of the most rapidly changing glaciers in the world today. This tidewater glacier is retreating at a rate so rapid that it has moved more than 12 miles over the last 30 years. Global warming has contributed to the shrinking of this glacier; however, once it reaches the shoreline and creates a more stable surface, its retreat is likely to slow down enough to make it possible for the glacier to reform. Enjoy a light lunch on board as you cruise past fjords and stunning ice walls. Your vessel’s ability to get close to the glacier will be dependent upon the ice and water conditions at Prince William Sound. At the end of your cruise, you will return to port and your awaiting ship.

Unwind during a scenic boat tour and enjoy pristine nature and plentiful animal life from the boat. Be captivated by the rich marine wildlife; these glacial waters are home to sea otters, porpoises, sea lions and a variety of whale species, including the killer whales that also reside in the waters of Kenai Fjords National Park. Discover some of the 191 species of bird that have been documented so far. A national park since 1980, Kenai preserves the fjord and rain forest ecosystems and wildlife while conserving the area’s historic and archaeological remains. Dip into sizable fjords and cruise beneath awe-inspiring mountains exceeding 6,000 feet in height. Admire the park’s many glaciers, and get an up-close view of the looming face of one of these icy giants. The seemingly harsh terrain of the Kenai Peninsula is also home to many terrestrial animals that can be spotted from the boat’s deck.

Discover the jewel of the Resurrection River Valley on a guided hike to a viewpoint along the scenic Exit Glacier. Covering an area of approximately 2.5 miles, this valley glacier is one of the most accessible and iconic in Alaska. After a short drive to the trailhead, disembark your motor coach and follow your naturalist guide along the path on an invigorating hike toward the picturesque viewpoint. Along the way, your guide will provide insights about the topography, vegetation and natural habitats of this glacial environment. Learn how rising global temperatures have affected the glacier and take note of the markers along the trail that indicate its aggressive retreat. See up-close how the glacier has shaped the surrounding landscape and learn how plant life is reclaiming the barren, rocky land exposed by its retreat. At the overlook, take in the views before returning to your ship.

Experience the pulsing excitement of New York on a half-day excursion. During a panoramic drive with your guide, pass Rockefeller Center, known as “30 Rock”; Times Square and the Theater District surrounding Broadway; the Empire State Building; and the glorious St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Your route takes you through some of the city’s most venerated and distinct neighborhoods: trendy Greenwich Village, SoHo, the bustling Financial District and posh Fifth Avenue, with its elegant boutiques. You will also glimpse the oasis of Central Park, 843 acres of green in the heart of the city. Stop in Lower Manhattan for a guided walk through the National September 11 Memorial and view the water features that sit within the original footprints of the Twin Towers. Your journey returns to Midtown Manhattan before arriving back to your ship.

Honor the lives lost and the moment that shook the world during a visit to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Meet your guide, a local who will bring a personal perspective to the tragedy, then set out for your walk around Ground Zero. View St. Paul’s Chapel and gain insight into the many acts of heroism that took place on that fateful day. Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial, two pools within the footprints of the Twin Towers. Here, the names of the almost 3,000 men, women and children lost are inscribed in bronze on the parapets around the pools. After, enter the museum and descend underground to the halls and exhibits. Here, you will have time to independently explore the museum’s growing collection, including items recalling September 11, 2001, and February 26, 1993, including photographs, audio and video, personal effects, expressions of remembrance and recorded testimonies.

View historic treasures and cultural gems of the “City of Stars” on an entertaining, informative panoramic drive. Meet your guide and embark on a narrated panoramic ride by motor coach past famous landmarks like the Los Angeles Coliseum, the University of Southern California and the Museum of Natural History en route to the downtown area. Stop at the Music Center and drive past Olvera Street; nicknamed the “birthplace of Los Angeles,” it is the city’s oldest street. Stop for photos at the world-famous Hollywood Walk of Fame, where you will see the names of celebrities emblazoned on stars embedded in the sidewalk. See the nearby Dolby Theater, home to the annual Oscars ceremony, and the historic Grauman’s Chinese Theater. Afterward, drive to the historic and famous Original Farmers Market for free time to browse the many food stalls, eateries, prepared food vendors and produce markets.

Explore iconic Beverly Hills, home to Hollywood celebrities and the world-famous Rodeo Drive. From the pier, you will transfer to your drop-off destination in this renowned city of the stars. After a brief orientation, set out to its renowned attractions on your own. Browse the boutiques along Rodeo Drive, one of the wealthiest and most fashionable shopping streets in the world, and enjoy the opportunity to indulge in a little retail therapy; this two-mile stretch is known as the intersection of luxury, fashion and entertainment. You may choose to treat yourself to a memento or two, or perhaps peruse the plaques embedded in the sidewalk, immortalizing fashion icons, on the Rodeo Drive Walk of Style. At a predetermined time, meet your Viking Representative and transfer to your awaiting ship.

See major sites that played a role in a nation’s birth and visit some of Boston’s most historic neighborhoods. Transfer into Boston, where you will pause at Copley Square to see the elegant Trinity Church and the Boston Public Library. Your journey continues past Newbury Street, the Boston Public Garden and the Boston Common. Pass by the brick-lined sloping lanes of Beacon Hill and gaze up at the gilded dome of the State House. View the Old State House and the Old North Church—in 1775, Paul Revere ordered the famous “one if by land, two if by sea” lantern signal hung from its steeple to warn of the approaching British army. Next, cross the river into Cambridge, where you will enjoy a stroll through bustling Harvard Square. After, you may choose to return to your ship directly, or spend more time exploring on your own and return later via shuttle.

Take a scenic drive past the iconic sights and picturesque coast of Newport, one of America’s oldest cities. Founded in 1639, Newport’s storied past remains well preserved; many of its colonial-era buildings have been designated National Historic Sites. Embark on a scenic drive, passing residences that are exemplary of colonial and Gilded Age architecture. Admire Trinity Church and the Redwood Library, and glimpse the Gothic-style St. Mary’s Church—where President John F. Kennedy and Jacqueline Bouvier were wed. Ride along the famous Ocean Drive for picturesque views of sandy beaches, rocky coastline and the Atlantic Ocean. Time permitting, pause at Fort Adams, once the largest coastal fortification in the US. Finish with a drive down elegant Bellevue Avenue, where millionaire industrialists such as Vanderbilt, Astor and Morgan built their opulent summer residences.

Discover the Gilded Age extravagance of the Vanderbilts during a visit to two of their opulent summer residences. Commodore Cornelius Vanderbilt amassed a fortune as a shipping and railroad magnate during the Industrial Revolution, becoming one of the wealthiest men in America. The Vanderbilts built these two grand villas on the eastern shore of Newport. Learn about the lives of these Gilded Age elites as you tour the public rooms and grounds of Marble House and The Breakers, both of which are National Historic Landmarks. These European-inspired mansions exude luxury, from the Versailles-inspired facades of Marble House to the ornately decorated interiors of The Breakers with its lavish frescoes, statuary and gilded wood paneling. You will also have an opportunity to enjoy sweeping views of the rugged Atlantic coastline and stroll the manicured gardens surrounding the estates.

Enjoy a panoramic tour of Portland’s main sights and see the state’s oldest lighthouse. Board your motor coach and embark on a scenic drive through the revitalized historic neighborhoods that define Portland. Journey through the Old Port, where gracious street lanterns line the pathways of the old warehouse district, whose red-brick buildings have been transformed into charming eateries, boutique shops and art galleries. From atop Munjoy Hill, you will enjoy sweeping views over Casco Bay. Continue your drive along vibrant Congress Street into the heart of the New Arts District, home to the Portland Museum of Art, State Theater and Center for Marine History. Here, you will find the childhood home of esteemed poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow. Continue to Cape Elizabeth as you admire the scenery of its rocky shore and Maine’s oldest lighthouse. Enjoy free time to learn about its maritime history as you explore the museum—once the quarters of the lighthouse keeper.

Admire the craftsmanship of Maine’s long-standing towns and marvel at America’s most-photographed lighthouse. Board your motor coach and drive through the streets of Portland, passing by Fort Allen and the Eastern Promenade for panoramic views of Casco Bay and your ship. Continue to the Western Promenade, a Victorian neighborhood situated atop a cliff. Enjoy the picturesque vistas before driving to Kennebunkport, a former fishing town that boasts historic homes of wealthy sea captains and the Bush Estate, the Summer White House of former president George H. W Bush. Trace the coast for a glimpse of the ocean before arriving at Dock Square. Enjoy free time to stroll through the charming streets, filled with galleries and boutiques, before having lunch at a local eatery. Rejoin your coach and drive to Cape Elizabeth to view the oldest lighthouse in Maine, first used in 1791.