New England Liberal Arts Tour: Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby - A Three-Day Insightful Retreat from Stamford, CT

Trip Overview: Embark on a captivating three-day journey from Stamford, CT, to explore the academic splendor and artistic heritage of three distinguished New England liberal arts colleges: Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby. This excursion, departing from the gateway to New England, is meticulously designed to provide students with an educational and enriching experience, combining in-depth college tours with visits to renowned art museums, offering a panoramic view of each institution’s unique traditions, scholastic excellence, and lively student culture.

• Bowdoin College in Brunswick, ME, renowned for its intimate learning environment and strong community ties, has been a beacon of liberal arts education since 1794, consistently acclaimed for its scholarly rigor and serene campus.
• Bates College in Lewiston, ME, with its origins in 1855, has steadfastly maintained a robust liberal arts curriculum, noted for its historical role in advocating for coeducation and its unwavering dedication to social justice.
• Colby College in Waterville, ME, established in 1813, stands out for its challenging academic offerings, idyllic campus, and significant artistic contributions, particularly its well-regarded Colby College Museum of Art.

Starting and Ending Point: Stamford, CT Pick-up/Drop-off Location: Stamford Government Center, 888 Washington Blvd, Stamford, CT 06901

Itinerary and Highlights:

Day 1: Brunswick, ME – Bowdoin College

• Morning: Start your exploration with an immersive tour of Bowdoin College’s historic grounds, rich in academic legacy.
• Afternoon: Experience the artistic brilliance at the Bowdoin College Museum of Art, housing a comprehensive collection of masterpieces.
• Evening: Enjoy a delectable dinner in the inviting downtown Brunswick, a locale that exudes New England’s quintessential charm.

Day 2: Lewiston, ME – Bates College

• Morning: Proceed with a lively campus tour of Bates College, capturing the essence of its dynamic scholarly community.
• Afternoon: Admire the modern artistic achievements at the Bates College Museum of Art, a center for cultural and educational engagement.
• Evening: Relish the flavors and ambiance of historic downtown Lewiston, where Maine’s heritage meets contemporary culinary arts.

Day 3: Waterville, ME – Colby College

• Morning: Survey the picturesque campus of Colby College, appreciating its commitment to academic rigor amidst expansive natural settings.
• Afternoon: Delight in the diverse range of art at the Colby College Museum of Art, a premier destination for art aficionados.
• Evening: Conclude the tour with an inspired farewell dinner in Waterville, reminiscing about the enriching encounters of the past days.

Accommodation: Lodging will be arranged in a mix of budget-friendly and boutique hotels, chosen for their comfort and local appeal. Each hotel provides amenities such as Wi-Fi to facilitate both relaxation and online connectivity.

Transportation: Seamless transportation will be provided by chartered bus from Stamford to each college campus in Maine, offering a cozy and sociable travel experience.

Cost Breakdown (Estimated Total Cost per Person): $370

What’s Included:

• Round-trip charter transportation from Stamford
• Two nights in select hotels, combining convenience with local hospitality
• Guided campus tours of Bowdoin, Bates, and Colby Colleges
• Entry to each institution’s acclaimed art museum
• All meals, showcasing the local gastronomy of Brunswick, Lewiston, and Waterville
• Professional tour guidance for a rich and informative experience

Why This Trip Is Special: This tour presents a rare blend of academic discovery and cultural immersion, making it an ideal expedition for students contemplating a future in liberal arts or those deeply interested in the arts. It serves as a portal into the prestigious world of higher education in New England, against a backdrop of historical campuses and esteemed art collections. More than a series of site visits, this trip is a voyage of inspiration, allowing students to engage with the distinct character of each college, deepening their appreciation for the myriad of educational opportunities that abound in New England’s vibrant scholarly landscape.