Historic Highlights
Historic Highlights
$3350
Historic Highlights
8 Days Starting and ending in Washington D.C., USA
Visiting: Washington, D.C., Williamsburg, Charlottesville, Gettysburg, Philadelphia
Tour operator:
Tour code:
DHIHZN20
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating journey through America's rich history with the "Historic Highlights" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the political heart of Washington, D.C., to the colonial charm of Williamsburg, and the pivotal battlefields of Gettysburg. Discover the stories behind iconic landmarks like the White House, Liberty Bell, and Monticello, while delving into the African American experience at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Enjoy a unique "Be My Guest" lunch with an Amish family in Lancaster County, and stay in carefully selected hotels that blend comfort with historical significance. Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach, ensuring seamless connectivity and comfort. This tour not only offers a deep dive into America's past but also supports sustainable tourism and cultural preservation, making it a meaningful adventure for history enthusiasts.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Greetings Washington, D.C.
Location: Washington, D.C.
Accommodation: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Accommodation Name: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Meals Included: Dinner
The political heart of America is your gateway to a memorable encounter with the Land of the Free and how it came to be so. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy an afternoon at leisure to explore the museums, memorials and monuments of Washington, D.C. This evening, you’ll join your Travel Director and fellow travelers for Welcome Dinner to kick-start your journey.
Day 2: Marvel At Mount Vernon
Location: Washington, D.C.
Accommodation: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Accommodation Name: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture on a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture and houses over 36,000 fascinating artefacts. Afterwards, tread in the footsteps of America's first president by visiting Mount Vernon, the former home of George Washington. Step back into the 18th century, strolling the estate’s lush gardens, grounds, and fascinating museum galleries before returning back to your hotel for a free evening.
Day 3: Uncover The History Of Washington, D.C. Dive Into Culture
Location: Williamsburg
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
Roam the oak-lined avenues and see the noble tributes to America's famous sons and daughters as you explore the nation's proud heritage today. View the White House, the striking Washington Monument, and the National Mall, stretching from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol Building. Reflect on the country's darkest days at the Lincoln Memorial and sombre memorials to World War II and the Vietnam War. Delve into history at the American Revolution Museum at the Yorktown Victory Center, surrounded by period artefacts, and experience first-hand the dramatic "Siege of Yorktown" with a 180-degree surround screen and dramatic special effects. Your tour continues on to Williamsburg, founded in 1638 as Middle Plantation, and the former capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Day 4: Step Back In Time At Colonial Williamsburg Make Travel Matter
Location: Williamsburg
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, we venture to Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in America, where we'll gain insights into the trials that marked the lives of early 17th century colonists. Fast forward a few centuries and spend the rest of the day in Colonial Williamsburg, once Britain's largest colony in the New World. Chat with blacksmiths and carpenters, and perhaps even engage in some politicking with a costumed Federalist in the town square. Partake in a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and meet Sylvia Tabb-Lee who will bring America’s slavery history into the light with storytelling, visual presentations, and song and dance.
Day 5: Explore Charlottesville And Monticello
Location: Charlottesville
Accommodation: The Draftsman Hotel
Accommodation Name: The Draftsman
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit St. John’s Church in Richmond, Virginia—the very spot where George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were inspired by Patrick Henry's fiery "Give me liberty or give me death" speech. Continue to Charlottesville, where you'll enjoy lunch on your own at one of the many local restaurants in town. Then, visit Monticello, the neoclassical Italian estate where Jefferson once sought a quieter existence. The rest of your day is free.
Day 6: Unlock The Legacy Of Gettysburg Make Travel Matter
Location: Gettysburg
Accommodation: Wyndham Gettysburg
Accommodation Name: Wyndham Gettysburg
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Journey through the rolling hills of the Shenandoah National Park en route to Gettysburg where we’ll delve into the devastation of a four-year civil war pitting North against South. We explore the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience contributes to their efforts to preserve the battlefield. This evening, indulge in a festive Regional Dinner at the "most haunted" 19th century Dobbin House, keeping an eye out for a Union Soldier who may visit with tales of the American Civil War.
Day 7: Journey To Philadelphia
Location: Philadelphia
Accommodation: Philadelphia Marriott Old City
Accommodation Name: Philadelphia Marriott Old City
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cast your mind back to the pivotal yet tragic day on which Pickett led his charge at Gettysburg. Join a Local Specialist who will bring to life the events at Gettysburg that turned the tide of the Civil War. Just four months later, the battlefield served as the backdrop for Abraham Lincoln's call for "a new birth of freedom" in his famed Gettysburg Address. Later, you will enjoy a special experience at the Amish home of Samuel and Ruth Lapp, who own a working 25-acre produce farm just outside Lancaster. The Lapp family will introduce our guests to a few Amish traditions and host them for a family-style meal with recipes passed down through generations and ingredients sourced directly from their farm. You’ll journey to the City of Brotherly Love and the site of the signing of the Declaration of Independence next. Stay in the heart of Philadelphia’s historic district, within walking distance of dozens of landmark buildings. This evening, we’ll join our Travel Director and fellow American history enthusiasts for a farewell dinner.
Day 8: Discover The Sights Of Philadelphia
Location: Philadelphia
Meals Included: Breakfast
Gain insights into the history of the U.S. Constitution and the effect it has had around the world during this morning’s tour through Philadelphia. We’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Independence National Historic Park and see its famous cracked bell whose inscription has inspired so many to “proclaim liberty”. The final stop on our journey is Washington, D.C., where we continue to Dulles International Airport at approximately 4:00pm, Ronald Reagan National Airport at approximately 5:00pm and to the Washington Marriott Georgetown hotel for guests extending their stay.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included to guide and assist you throughout the tour.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Stay in cherry-picked hotels that are tried and trusted for quality and comfort.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour package.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are covered in the tour package.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Enjoy daily breakfast and up to half of your evening meals included in the tour.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
The tour includes must-see sightseeing and surprise extras to enhance your experience.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets are provided for flexible sightseeing, ensuring you don't miss any details.
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All transport and transfers shown
All transport and transfers as shown in the itinerary are included.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Travel in luxury with an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, or alternative transportation like rail journeys.
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Optional Experiences and free time
Optional experiences and free time are available for you to explore at your own pace.
What's Not Included
Alcohol is not traditionally served with Amish meals. Drinks will be sweet tea or purified water.
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Dive Into Culture
- Williamsburg: The Museum of the American Revolution uncovers and shares compelling stories about the diverse people and complex events that sparked the American Revolution. Through the Museum’s collection, immersive galleries, powerful theater experiences, and interactive elements, visitors gain a deeper appreciation for how this nation came to be and feel inspired to consider their role in ensuring that the promise of the Revolution endures.
- Williamsburg: Colonial Williamsburg, once Britain's largest colony in the New World. Get a glimpse into what life was like in the colonies and engage with costumed blacksmiths, tradesmen and enjoy a a marching parade in the towns square.
- Richmond: Visit St. John's Church in Richmond, Virginia-the very spot where George Washington and Thomas Jefferson were inspired by Patrick Henry's fiery "Give me liberty or give me death" speech.
- Charlottesville: Explore Monticello, the neoclassical Italian estate where Thomas Jefferson lived. Thomas Jefferson was a leading figure of the American Revolution and Third President of the United States.
- Gettysburg: During your dinner at Dobbin House Tavern - established in 1776 and on the National Register of Historic Places - enjoy 'A Soldier's Story' by Impersonator and veteran actor Chris Rebmann. Hear stories and causes of the American Civil War and insights into the life of a soldier.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides luxury travel in an air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, ensuring comfort and connectivity throughout the journey. All transport and transfers are included, providing seamless travel between historic sites and accommodations.
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What is the 'Be My Guest' experience in Lancaster County?
The 'Be My Guest' experience in Lancaster County includes a lunch at the Amish home of Samuel and Ruth Lapp, who own a working 25-acre produce farm. Guests will be introduced to Amish traditions and enjoy a family-style meal with recipes passed through generations, using ingredients sourced directly from their farm. Note that alcohol is not traditionally served with Amish meals; drinks will be sweet tea or purified water.
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What unique experiences are included in the tour to make travel matter?
The tour includes visits to the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C., a presentation on the Trans-Atlantic slave trade and African Colonial life in Virginia by Sylvia Tabb-Lee in Williamsburg, and a visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. These experiences support various United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, such as Quality Education, Reduced Inequalities, and Sustainable Cities and Communities.
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What kind of accommodations can I expect during the tour?
Accommodations include stays at the Washington Marriott Georgetown, Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg, The Draftsman Hotel, Wyndham Gettysburg, and Philadelphia Marriott Old City. These hotels offer comfort and proximity to historic sites, with The Draftsman Hotel featuring stylish rooms and local artwork as a tribute to Virginia's presidential legacy.
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What historical sites will be visited during the tour?
The tour includes visits to several historical sites such as Mount Vernon, Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, Monticello, Gettysburg National Military Park, the National Mall, St. John's Church, Independence National Historic Park, and Shenandoah National Park. Additionally, guests will view landmarks like the Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, and the Liberty Bell.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions