ACA provides you with amazing adventures all summer long, transporting you in comfort and style to these vibrant destinations. This distinctive part of ACA provides uniquely enriching, exciting opportunities for growth, learning and entertainment. ACA weekend adventures create a truly rewarding summer experience.
England's Castles & Countryside
No trip to England is complete without a leisurely weekend exploring the magnificent countryside. Home to intriguing castles, ancient ruins, extraordinary universities and quaint villages, this weekend will give you insight into the true English lifestyle.
Bath– A World Heritage Site, this ancient Roman city is famous for its beautifully preserved, elaborate bathhouse, fed by natural hot springs running beneath the city.
Blenheim Palace– The birthplace of Sir Winston Churchill, this beautiful medieval palace is a quintessential example of an English countryside manor.
Stratford-Upon-Avon– The birthplace of William Shakespeare, this quaint countryside town is steeped in culture and history.
Stonehenge– Constructed over 4,000 years ago, this world-renowned site has fascinated the imagination of many over the ages.
Oxford
Home to arguably the most famous university in the world, this weekend excursion will not disappoint. In the “city of dreaming spires,” academia takes center stage. Mix the historic and modern with visits to the 12th-century church of Iffley and trendy shops of Cowley. And did we mention the university? Make sure to check out the Christ Church dining hall before you leave, the setting of Harry Potter’s famed Hogwarts dining hall.
Paris: The City of Lights (3 Days)
Experience Paris, the city of lights! The rich art, architecture and culture are yours to enjoy, and ACA makes sure you see the best Paris has to offer. You’ll visit several fascinating places, such as…
The Louvre– The world’s most famous art museum and home of the one and only Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo.
Eiffel Tower– Not only will you see it up close, but you’ll also travel to the observatory at the top for a breathtaking view of Paris.
Notre Dame Cathedral– One of the world’s most majestic cathedrals, you’ll marvel at this immense structure with its Gothic architecture and beautifully crafted rose windows. Is that a hunchback ringing those bells?
L’Arc de Triomphe– The world-famous landmark from Napoleon’s imperial capital, this beautiful arch marks the place where twelve avenues converge in the shape of a star.
The Latin Quarter– In this cultural hub for students, teachers and artists, you’ll explore street markets, bookstalls and boutiques. Shop at one of the many cafés for a croissant or “chocolat,” and do some prime people watching.
Seine Floodlit River Cruise– A moonlight cruise in a sleek Bateau Mouche on this unforgettable river will give you a nighttime view of Paris you’ll cherish for the rest of your life.
Sorbonne– Rub shoulders with international students amid the historical buildings of this famous university.
Champs Elysées– This is the spot for some prime shopping, one of the most elegant streets in the world, where Parisians and visitors alike come to see and be seen.
Cambridge & Coasters
Here’s a city that’s known the world over as a home of great minds. With its remarkably preserved city centre, Cambridge appears almost exactly as it has for centuries, with its medieval streets and college courts maintaining an ancient air. Spend the day exploring the concert halls and cinemas, bookstores and record shops, open markets and cool shops that make Cambridge a true college town. Then climb the bell tower for sweeping views of the city. You’re sure to be impressed!
Alton Towers Amusement Park– Looking for a crackin’ good time? England’s largest theme park offers 500 acres of attractions and rides. Situated on the grounds of a great, stately home in Staffordshire, Alton Towers has no shortage of great diversions and rides – but it is best known for its serious roller coasters. The English love wild rides as much as anyone! Test your nerve against Nemesis, the first inverted coaster in Europe, or try Oblivion, the very first vertical drop coaster in the world! If you have a need for speed and screams, Alton Towers will deliver. Bet on it!
Barcelona
Take three days and two nights in this spectacular city, which resonates with classic Spanish warmth. Barcelona is known the world over for its stunning modern architecture and historic beauty. Compare the grandeur of ancient cathedrals and the middle-age majesty of the Gothic Quarter with modern fixtures like the Picasso Museum, the Villa Olympica and Gaudi’d famous church – Sagrada Familia.
Please note: The trip to Barcelona replaces the day trips to Cambridge and Alton Towers for students who select this excurion. (Supplemental fee: $695*)
*Air travel is not included in your tuition
