New England Liberal Arts Circuit: Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby - A Three-Day Educational Exploration from Springfield, MA

Trip Overview: Setting out from Springfield, MA, students are presented with an immersive three-day tour of New England’s esteemed liberal arts landscape, visiting the acclaimed Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby colleges. This experience is meticulously designed to blend educational enrichment with cultural engagement, offering students a comprehensive insight into the rich traditions, academic vigor, and campus vibrancy of these prestigious institutions.

• Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, with its intimate learning environment and strong alumni relations, has stood as an icon of liberal arts education since 1794, frequently lauded for its academic rigor and scenic campus life.
• Bates College in Lewiston, ME, prides itself on its foundational liberal arts curriculum, historical significance in coeducation, and a profound commitment to social justice since its establishment in 1855.
• Colby College in Waterville, ME, dating back to 1813, is distinguished for its intensive academic programs, stunning campus aesthetics, and significant cultural contributions, particularly its Colby College Museum of Art.

Starting and Ending Point: Springfield, MA Pick-up/Drop-off Location: Court Square, Springfield, MA 01103

Itinerary and Highlights:

Day 1: Brunswick, ME – Bowdoin College

• Morning: Initiate the expedition with a guided exploration of Bowdoin College’s historic grounds and academic facilities.
• Afternoon: Delve into the extensive art collection at the Bowdoin College Museum of Art, celebrating both classic and contemporary works.
• Evening: Sample the culinary delights of downtown Brunswick, a locale that exudes New England charm and culinary craftsmanship.

Day 2: Lewiston, ME – Bates College

• Morning: Proceed to Bates College for a campus tour that showcases its dynamic community and educational ethos.
• Afternoon: Experience the Bates College Museum of Art, where art education and innovation converge.
• Evening: Partake in the historic atmosphere and gastronomy of downtown Lewiston, a fusion of Maine’s heritage and modern tastes.

Day 3: Waterville, ME – Colby College

• Morning: Traverse the picturesque Colby College campus, noting its academic zeal and the expanse of its natural surroundings.
• Afternoon: Engage with a spectrum of artistic works at the Colby College Museum of Art, a premier academic art institution.
• Evening: Enjoy a farewell dinner in Waterville, capping off the trip with a celebration of the shared experiences and discoveries.

Accommodation: A selection of hotels, ranging from economical to boutique options, will provide a comfortable and authentic New England stay, complete with amenities such as Wi-Fi for relaxation and continued learning.

Transportation: Chartered bus transportation from Springfield ensures a stress-free and congenial journey across the picturesque landscapes of Maine to each college campus.

Cost Breakdown (Estimated Total Cost per Person): $380

What’s Included:

• Round-trip charter transportation from Springfield
• Two nights’ lodging in hand-picked hotels with modern comforts
• Campus tours of Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby Colleges
• Admissions to each college’s museum of art
• All meals, embracing the local flavors of New England in Brunswick, Lewiston, and Waterville
• Expert guidance from experienced tour leaders for a rewarding educational experience

Why This Trip Is Special: This tour is a comprehensive academic pilgrimage, perfect for students weighing their liberal arts college options or those eager to immerse in the arts. It’s a venture into the heart of New England’s higher education, against the backdrop of historical campuses and esteemed art institutions. More than just structured visits, this expedition is a source of inspiration, enabling students to connect with the distinctive character of each college and appreciate the wide array of opportunities within New England’s rich educational tapestry.