Itinerary Details
America's Historic East
Day 1: ARRIVE IN WASHINGTON DC Welcome to Washington DC! At 6:00 p.m., meet your Tour Director and travel companions for a welcome drink.
Day 2: WASHINGTON DC Monuments & Moving Memorials Explore historic landmarks on a Washington, DC sightseeing tour with a Local Guide, including the Lincoln Memorial, Library of Congress, Kennedy Center, historic Georgetown, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial with stops for photos at the White House and at Capitol Hill. Enjoy leisure time this afternoon to explore on your own. Consider the Smithsonian Museums, C & O Canal in Georgetown, International Spy Museum, or a walk along Embassy Row. Try the optional excursion this evening for dinner and an illumination tour of the monuments at night. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Georgetown’s 18th- and 19th- century grand mansions have been home to politicians, celebrities, and famous Washingtonians in one of the oldest neighborhoods in the district and continue to attract the DC elite. The cobblestone roads, waterfront views, upscale bars, trendy boutiques, and diverse culinary scene draw locals and tourists to the charming, historic area.
ENHANCED FREE TIME
The Smithsonian is the world's largest museum, education, and research complex, with many of its museums located along the National Mall. Explore the National Museum of the American Indian’s expansive collection and indigenous landscaping; the Smithsonian National Museum of American History—rich in artifacts highlighting historic American culture, including Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz, Muhammad Ali’s boxing gloves, and a special exhibit honoring the nation’s flag, the Star-Spangled Banner; the National Museum of African American History and Culture for significant exhibits illustrating African American culture and history, including the Revolutionary War and Civil Rights Movement.
Day 3: WASHINGTON DC–MOUNT VERNON, VIRGINIA–YORKTOWN–WILLIAMSBURG U.S. History & Heroes Visit Mount Vernon, the restored home of George Washington enroute to Williamsburg. Tour the house and gardens, including the formal garden designed for Washington’s guests. Explore the museums and Washington’s Tomb, the final resting place for George and Martha Washington. Continue south to Yorktown, known for its role in both the American Revolution and the Civil War, and visit the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown. Then journey on the Colonial Parkway to Williamsburg for a 2-night stay at the [LF] Williamsburg Lodge and dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
The Virginia mansion estate of America’s first president, Mount Vernon is one of the most iconic 18th-century homes in America. The patriot and president renovated the home, and it grew to 10 times the size of the average home in colonial Virginia. . George Washington slowly enlarged the dwelling to create the current 21-room residence. He oversaw each renovation, advising on design, construction, and decoration; the changes reflect his growing status as a Virginia gentleman and ultimately as the leader of a new nation.
LOCAL FAVORITE
A historic property built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. and designed by Gilbert Stanley Underwood in 1939, the Williamsburg Lodge is the perfect base for which to explore Colonial Williamsburg. A colonial-themed property with modern amenities, the luxurious Williamsburg Lodge is steps away from historic taverns, museums, shops, and 18th-century living history demonstrations.
Day 4: WILLIAMSBURG. EXCURSION TO JAMESTOWNAmerica's First Footsteps This morning, enjoy an exclusive [LF] performance by Sylvia Tabb-Lee, a professional historian. Visit the Jamestown Settlement, a living-history museum that brings 17th-century Virginia to life and explore the story of the first permanent English settlement in America. Discover how Jamestown's struggles, successes, and cultural encounters helped shape the future of the Virginia colony and the nation that would follow. Return to Colonial Williamsburg for free time to discover the area on your own as the remainder of the day is at leisure. Explore restored Colonial Williamsburg, part of Virginia's Historic Triangle with Jamestown and Yorktown, where pivotal moments in America's past come to life. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE
Join renowned actor Sylvia Tabb-Lee for a fascinating and moving performance in Williamsburg that illuminates and inspires insight into the experience of slaves in American history. In keeping with her philosophy of “Each One, Teach One; Each One, Reach One,” Tabb-Lee is an inspiration in sharing the trials and triumphs of African American history.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
When the Virginia Company settlers landed at Jamestown to establish an English colony 60 miles from the Chesapeake Bay in 1607, they faced enormous challenges and hardships in a dramatic experience of disease and famine. Hear the dramatic details of this ambitious undertaking with a tour led by an expert guide, including the legend of Captain John Smith, the dark, starving winter of 1609, and the story of Pocahontas – all part of the thrilling story of America’s birthplace.
Day 5: WILLIAMSBURG–RICHMOND–MONTICELLO–CHARLOTTESVILLEHistoric Figures Depart Williamsburg and travel to Richmond, Virginia’s historic capital, where the story of America’s fight for independence comes alive. Step inside St. John’s Church, the very place where Patrick Henry delivered his stirring “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech that helped ignite a revolution. Continue to the estate of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello, a masterpiece of Palladian architecture designed by Jefferson himself and recognized today from the back of the U.S. nickel. Wander through beautifully manicured gardens, elegant rooms, and sweeping mountain views while learning about Jefferson’s remarkable legacy and the complexities of life on this historic plantation. End the day in charming Charlottesville—an inviting college town known for its walkable downtown, classic Southern charm, and beautiful views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Experience an unforgettable visit to Monticello, the extraordinary home of Thomas Jefferson—founding father, author of the Declaration of Independence, and America’s third president. Explore the grand mansion Jefferson spent more than 40 years designing, stroll along the terraced gardens and marvel at the timeless panoramic views of the Virginia countryside.
Day 6: CHARLOTTESVILLE–SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARKComplex Views Visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, located at the 28th President’s birthplace. Gain an understanding of the life and times of President Woodrow Wilson, his impact on the world, and his relevance today and for the future. Continue to beautiful Shenandoah National Park for dinner and a free evening in the park. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Travel through the spectacular landscapes of Shenandoah National Park along the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Enjoy photo stops and panoramic views from Skyline Drive enroute to the historic Skyland Resort, established in the late 1800s.
Day 7: SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK–GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA Hallowed Grounds Discover the blooming wildflowers and songbird calls on a gentle guided walk this morning in Shenandoah National Park. Journey on Skyline Drive for majestic views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and woodland animals. Continue across West Virginia and Maryland into Pennsylvania to Gettysburg. Before visiting the battlefield, gain insight through the interactive exhibits in the Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War and view the iconic Battle of Gettysburg Cyclorama at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum. Follow the decisive events of the war including Lincoln’s enduring address with the film, “A New Birth of Freedom.” Continue to the battlefield with your Local Guide who vividly recounts the American Civil War Battle of 1863. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant tonight in downtown Gettysburg. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Stay overnight at the historic Hotel Gettysburg, established in 1797. President Lincoln stayed just steps away from the hotel prior to delivering the Gettysburg Address, and nearly a century later, the hotel served as President Dwight Eisenhower’s National Operations Center.
Day 8: GETTYSBURG–LANCASTER–VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK–PHILADELPHIA Pennsylvania Past & Present Visit a family-owned country market, specializing in local dairy products, fresh vegetables, and delightful sweets in rural Pennsylvania. Travel through Lancaster County past Amish farmland to Valley Forge National Historical Park and continue to Philadelphia, where your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner on the historic Moshulu ship. Launched in 1904, she enjoyed a remarkable career transporting cargo around the world before finding a permanent home on Philadelphia's waterfront. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Visit Valley Forge National Historical Park to see the camp where Washington and his troops endured the harsh winter of 1777–1778 during the American Revolutionary War. See the Memorial Arch, the Grand Parade, and the Washington Memorial Chapel.
Day 9: PHILADELPHIA Liberty & Legacy This morning, discover the rich history of Philadelphia as you explore the city's most iconic landmarks in the birthplace of American independence, including the Liberty Bell on a guided sightseeing tour. Your vacation concludes with a seamless transfer to Philadelphia International Airport or to your Washington, DC tour hotel for guests extending their stay. Please schedule flights from Philadelphia International Airport after 2:00 p.m. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
Few landmarks capture the spirit of the nation like the Liberty Bell. Inscribed with the words, “Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof,” the bell once rang from Independence Hall to summon lawmakers and citizens alike. Over time, it became far more than a statehouse bell—emerging as a powerful symbol of freedom, equality, and civil rights. Discover the remarkable story behind this enduring American icon and the message of hope it continues to inspire today.
