Welcome to Road Scholar!
At Road Scholar, we develop learning adventures for adults who want a depth of perspective not found on standard travel excursions. As a university of the world, we create one-of-a-kind experiences — rich, multifaceted investigations into every topic and destination. You’ll learn from expert faculty and meet fellow travelers, who — like you — are students of the world.
Now Available to Travelers from the UK
Ever since we opened our first international office in Canterbury, England in 1981, we have brought hundreds of thousands of Americans to learn about the United Kingdom and Europe. Today, we are thrilled to make available our complete collection of learning adventures to citizens of the United Kingdom. Join us on a Road Scholar program and you’ll be welcomed into a group comprised mostly of Americans who love learning and travel. If you want an authentic travel experience, you’ve come to the right place.
Start with us in America's Greatest City
We love London, and now we’d love to tell you about why we’re so thrilled to introduce you to America’s gem —New York City! Its proximity and ease of travel from the UK make it the perfect destination for your first taste of Road Scholar. You’re welcome to enroll in any of the thousands of learning adventures we offer around the world, but we have created this collection of New York City adventures specifically with our British friends in mind. After all, when it comes to the Big Apple, Frank Sinatra said it best … “If I can make it there, I'll make it anywhere.”
Why Road Scholar?
We Make It Easy and Affordable
Our goal is to make your learning adventure as effortless as possible. Once your trip begins, we handle all logistics and costs—including those you might not anticipate. As a result, every Road Scholar adventure is hassle-free, giving you the bandwidth to concentrate entirely on the experience itself. And we include it all on remarkably economical terms.
Accommodations in the Heart of the Action
It may be “the city that never sleeps,” but you’ll still need a place to rest your head. That’s why we include lodging in the heart of the action. For almost all of our New York City programs, you’ll be staying at The New Yorker Hotel, an Art Deco masterpiece opened in 1930. From the New Yorker, all of New York is at your doorstep — the Empire State Building and the Theater District are just a few minutes’ walk away.
Our New York City Faculty Know Their Stuff
With a city as fast-paced and mind-boggling as New York City, you’ll want to be in the best hands. Our New York City instructors are savvy locals who have a love of their city and a depth of knowledge you’ll never find with typical “tour guides.”
Richard Turnbull
Richard Turnbull is an assistant professor in the History of Art department at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York, and lectures regularly at the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art.
Molly Goodrich
Molly Goodrich was the Director of the Carlo Lamagna Gallery for five years, has served as a corporate art consultant and also taught contemporary American art in London through Syracuse University.
Karl Baudendistel
A New York City resident for more than 25 years, Karl Baudendistel has spent 20 years overseeing “the business of show business” for numerous Broadway and touring productions. Karl is a member of The Association of Theatrical Press Agents and Managers, is a trained sommelier and was educated at New York University’s Tisch School of the Arts.
Out and About in New York City
How do you want to explore the Big Apple?
People have widely individual styles of exploration, which is why we have more than a dozen different ways to learn about the Big Apple. Do you want an experience that focuses on Broadway theater or the arts? Want an overview of each of New York City’s five boroughs? Do you prefer an active pace exploration of New York? We guarantee we have something to satisfy your curiosity for whatever intrigues you most about New York City.
Programs That Give the 360° Perspective
Signature City New York: The Big Apple Experience
Get an insider’s perspective on New York as you explore Ellis Island, the Met, Rockefeller Plaza and learn about the city’s transition from a Dutch outpost to an American icon.
Five Days, Five Boroughs
Discover authentic New York on insider-led walks as you learn about architecture, historic monuments and cultural institutions in each of the city’s five boroughs. Learn more »
New York City at a Slower Pace: The Best of the Big Apple
Hear New Yorkers’ formidable stories and join art, architecture and history experts to explore New York at your own pace. Learn more →
Explore On Your Own
Out and About in NYC: History, Skyscrapers and Iconic Landmarks
Times Square. Central Park. Radio City. The Museum Mile. Savor the Big Apple’s best with local experts— and delight in ample time to discover its avenues, food and theater on your own! Learn more →
Dive into the Arts Scene
All-Art Experience in New York City: Met, MoMA and More
Immerse yourself in a world of culture as you explore the Met, MoMA and Frick Collection with experts, learning about art history, the museums and the galleries of New York. Learn more →
The Best of Theater in New York: Behind the Velvet Curtain
From Broadway to Off-Broadway to behind-the-scenes of Broadway, dive deep into the world of New York theater as you take in three performances and meet with theater professionals. Learn more →
Ultimate Opera: Two Productions at the Met
Fulfill a dream and come to New York to attend two performances at the Metropolitan Opera House. Plus, enjoy a private demonstration by a renowned professional musician! Learn more →
The Most Magical Time of the Year
Enjoy Christmas in NYC and At Country Mansions on the Hudson River
No place does Christmas like New York City. Attend the Nutcracker, explore Radio City Music Hall and enjoy an excursion to festively decorated mansions along the Hudson. Learn more →
New York for Christmas: A Festive Celebration
There’s nothing quite like New York City for Christmas, from the Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall to the festive decorations of Rockefeller Plaza, come find your holiday spirit. Learn more →
With Your Grandchild or Family
New York City: Family Adventures by Land and Sea
Take the adventure of a lifetime as you discover New York with your family, exploring must-see sites and renowned cultural attractions as you learn the story of this iconic city. Learn more →
Showtime! Your Broadway Adventure With Your Grandchild Begins
Add some drama to your life as you set off on a Broadway adventure with your grandchild! Attend two performances, enjoy a Times Square adventure and have fun in a theater workshop. Learn more →
And … Action! New York’s Theater, Film & TV With Your Grandchild
Learn what happens off screen and after curtain call as you and your grandchild set off to New York City for a look into the entertainment industry and attend two amazing performances! Learn more →
Take the adventure of a lifetime as you discover New York with your grandchild, exploring must-see sites and renowned cultural attractions as you learn the story of this iconic city. Learn more →