Historic Highlights
From CAD $4,850 Was CAD $5,389
Guarantee
Group Tour
Easy
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
Explore a young nation, on this journey that takes you Capitol Hill, George Washington’s home, reenactments on Gettysburg’s battlefields and dinner in a haunted tavern. This New England tour immerses you in the past, as you'll be chatting with blacksmiths in Colonial Williamsburg and visiting the monuments of D.C.’s National Mall.
Highlights
Dining Summary
- 3 Dinner (D)
- 7 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
Be My Guest
- Lancaster County: Guests will enjoy a Be My Guest lunch experience at the Amish home of Samuel and Ruth Lapp, who own a working 25 acre produce farm just outside of Lancaster. The Lapp Family will introduce our guests to a few Amish Traditions and host them to a family style meal with recipes passed through generations and ingredients sourced directly from their farm. * Please note, alcohol is not traditionally served with Amish meals. Drinks will be sweet tea or purified water.
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.
Iconic Experience
- Washington: This striking museum has collected more than 40,000 artifacts that reflect history, politics, sports, arts and entertainment. Explore the richness and diversity of the African American experience, what it means to their lives, and how it helped shape this nation.
- Mount Vernon: Visit Mount Vernon Estate, the former home of America's first President George Washington. Explore the Grounds and delve into the history of the American Revolution on an included tour of Mansion.
- Washington, D.C.: Explore the nation's proud heritage today as you view the White House, striking Washington Monument and 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.
- Jamestown: 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. Guests can walk through the life-sized re-creations of the colonists' crude fort, explore the mock-up of the Native American Powhatan village and climb aboard a replica of one of the three ships that sailed from England to Virginia.
- Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center: Explore the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center. This experience supports the preservation and understanding of the heritage and lasting significance of Gettysburg.
- Shenandoah: Enjoy your visit through the rolling hills of Shenandoah National Park.
- Gettysburg: Join a Local Specialist who will bring to life the Battle of Gettysburg which turned the tide in the American 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.
- Philadelphia: Explore the UNESCO-listed Independence National Historic Park and see its famous cracked bell whose inscription has inspired so many to "proclaim liberty". Also see Independence Hall where The Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were both debated and signed.
- Philadelphia: Visit the National Constitution Center which brings the United States Constitution to life by hosting interactive exhibits and inspires active citizenship by celebrating the American constitutional tradition.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®
- Discover heritage and history at the National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Williamsburg: Join Local Specialist Sylvia Tabb-Lee on a powerful journey back to the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries for a presentation of the Trans-Atlantic slave Trade & African Colonial life in Virginia through storytelling, song and dance. Your experience supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Must-see Highlights
- Explore Washington, D.C., St. John's Church in Richmond, Gettysburg Battlefield
- Visit Mount Vernon, the National Mall in Washington, D.C., Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, St John's Church in Richmond, Monticello, Shenandoah National Park, Gettysburg National Military Park, Independence National Historic Park and National Constitution Center in Philadelphia
- View the Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol Building and the White House in Washington, D.C., the Liberty Bell in Philadelphia
Trafalgar Difference
- Charlottesville: Combining history with modern sophistication, the Draftsman Hotel is a tribute to three U.S. presidents hailing from Virginia — Jefferson, Madison and Monroe. Appreciate the presidents' legacy throughout the hotel's design as well as proximity to local historic sites. From the stylish rooms to the local artwork, every aspect of the Draftsman Hotel has been meticulously crafted to enhance your stay.
Trip Details
Product Code: 28254
Tour Type: Group Tour
Accommodation: Deluxe
Transport: Private
Guide Language: English
Travel Styles:
Family, 55+
Tour Operator:
Trafalgar (CA)
Supplier Code: 275.406B
Starts: Washington D.C., United States Of America
Finishes: Washington D.C., United States Of America
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Not Guaranteed
Physical Rating:
Easy
Includes
Whats Included
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- All transport and transfers shown
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilized
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) CAD $4,850 ($606 /day)
Itinerary
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 a dinner to kick-start your journey.
Accommodation: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Meals: Dinner
This morning, visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture and houses over 36,000 fascinating artifacts. 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.
Accommodation: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Meals: 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 National Mall, stretching from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol Building. Reflect on the darkest days in the nation's history at the sombre memorials to World War II and the Vietnam War. Delve into history at the American Revolution Museum, surrounded by period artifacts, 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.
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg
Meals: 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 soldiers, 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.
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg
Meals: 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.
Accommodation: The Draftsman
Meals: Breakfast
Journey through the rolling hills of the Shenandoah National Park en route to Gettysburg where you’ll delve into the devastation of a four-year civil war pitting North against South. Explore the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center and learn about the National Park's efforts to preserve the battlefield. This evening, indulge in a festive dinner at the "most haunted" 19th-century Dobbin House.
Accommodation: Wyndham Gettysburg
Meals: Breakfast, 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 dinner.
Accommodation: Philadelphia Marriott Old City
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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 your journey is Washington, D.C., where you'll be transferred to either Dulles International Airport or Ronald Reagan National Airport (the journey between the two airports takes approximately 60 minutes) or to the Washington Marriott Georgetown for guests extending their stay.
Meals: Breakfast
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Tour Operator
Trafalgar (CA)
Family owned and run since 1920, The Travel Corporation (TTC) is the world leader in immersive travel experiences across an extensive range of travel categories. Each year TTC's 40 award winning hospitality and travel brands connect over 1 million happy travellers to the world. We give you access to the 12 DMC’s behind these brands, so you can build your business by capitalizing on the extensive experience, local expertise, and financial assurance of TTC. LOCAL EXPERTISE The world leaders in travel for over 100 years, we offer unparalleled local expertise with a global footprint. Our 12 DMCs, led by experienced in-destination teams, deliver experience rich travel solutions in more than 80 countries. Additionally, our market based teams are on hand to support across our 40 offices worldwide
In Business Since 1931
Reviews
William Epps - Traveled, April 2024
It was well planned. The trip was excellent. *Personal information removed by Feefo* was an excellent host
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/08/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, May 2024
Every detail was spot on. Our tour director, *Personal information removed by Feefo* , made sure our needs were met, many times before we asked. *Personal information removed by Feefo*, our driver, took care to get us to each location safely and always on time. We saw and did so much in a short time. As a first time traveler to this area of the US, I was very impressed in what Trafalgar planned. Although touring was fast paced we had the perfect amount if free time to explore on our own. This was my 7th trip with Trafalgar and it was one of the best.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/26/2024
Mary D - Traveled, August 2024
Customer Experience All the hotels were comfortable and well situated. The coach was expertly handled, comfortable and roomy. This tour gave an excellent overview of the war of Independence and the Civil War, and visit to Washington, without going into too much depth. Clearly, these are huge topics and we visited some amazing museums. However, as the tour is only one week long, there isn’t really time to look closely at everything on display. So this tour just provides a fascinating taster experience, and may inspire you to revisit when you have more time.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/17/2024
Joan Lovett - Traveled, May 2024
Excellent professional guides awaited us at different historical sites.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/19/2024
Merle Wilcox - Traveled, March 2024
Trip exceeded our expectations!!!! Great service. Our tour guide was so informative and knowledgeable, trip was well planned and super great. Our tour guide and bus driver were a perfect team and made everyone comfortable. They had two special needs people and handled them with such kindness and caring. Our trip far pasted our expectations. *Personal information removed by Feefo* and our bus driver worked as a perfect time. Both extremely helpful,caring ,,,professional and friendly. *Personal information removed by Feefo* had soooo much information Wow. She was perfect. She made our trip a delight!! Thanks to her for being sooo patient passionate simply a perfect guide and person.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/23/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, September 2024
Bucket List Trip! I would have given the five stars, but for a couple of the hotels we stayed in. The Hilton Garden Inn had only one functioning elevator and with a group of 45 people traveling and their luggage, it became problematic. We had to sometimes take the stairs. The Wyndham Gettysburg was below the standard of the other hotels. It lacked good service and seemed outdated in its rooms and amenities. The Philadelphia Marriott Old City did not have our room keys ready when we arrived. After a four hour bus trip, we had to wait for the paperwork and when we did finally get our keys, the rooms were so far away from the elevators that it was a hike getting back and forth and carrying luggage. The constant changing of hotels was inconvenient. Perhaps it's possible to allow for more days staying at a least number of hotels. This was a trip that marked off many of my bucket list items. Going to Washington, D.C. and experiencing so much of our country's history and seeing all those beautiful, majestic monuments were so overwhelming. Our tour director had such a great personality, professionalism, knowledge and experience. Every day was exciting and new and so much was covered that we felt we got our money's worth!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/20/2024
Thakendra Sodemba - Traveled, April 2025
Its worthy!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/18/2025
Robert Kohn - Traveled, September 2024
Rushed to see everything scheduled . Perhaps an extended tour should be offered like the extra time spent at Gettysburg. But it’s a must see to see all the great national mementos firsthand.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/15/2024
Clive Bayne - Traveled, June 2024
Bringing history alive. Outstanding tour guide and driver. Hotel selection good value for money. The three included meals all excellent with the farewell dinner in Pittsburg a very classy event. The itinerary is very ambitious, covering the splendor of Washington DC, early colonial settlements, the wars of rebellion and the civil war; But it works. One comes away with a better idea of the big picture and enough detail on people and places to bring it all alive.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/29/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, April 2024
Wonderful experience! Our tour director was great - knowledgeable about all the places, there to help in details large and small, with patience and cheerfulness. The bus driver was skilled and friendly. They made a great team, so that everything came together smoothly. It’s busy and full, but everything seemed “not to be missed.” Well planned, wonderful extras with the speakers along the way. Choices as to how to use your time as you wish in enough places to give a sense of flexibility. Great combination of scenery, monuments, museums, buildings, cities, and good food. Everything came together to create a whole experience, not just a bunch of different places. So enjoyable!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/16/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, April 2024
Had terrific travel director who was exceedingly knowledgeable and helpful and fun! Great bus driver. Learned or re-learned so much.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/06/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, March 2024
Historical Highlights! Very efficient and high customer service level. Perfect balance on learning about American history and culture, both colonial and civil war.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, March 2024
Great trip! All details were handled professionally and we appreciated the transfer service to the airport for our flight home at the end of the tour. The tour included a good overview of historic sites and we enjoyed our excellent tour guide, bus driver, and getting to know fellow group members. Hotels and included meals were also very good. An additional highlight was visiting the Amish farm and eating a delicious lunch there.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/23/2024
Jeffrey Williams - Traveled, February 2024
This trip was even better than i imagined it would be one cool place after! Excellent travel director. above and beyond in her approach. kim walked a long distance in order to purchase 2 books for couples for the farewell dinner. made a fantastic video and on her own time gave a tour of the university of virginia, wow, thank you kim! Not only did this travel director , kim, take us on a hike on the appalachian trail but she also snagged 3 hikers to talk to our group. she also took us to reading market which was not even on the itinerary. just fantastic. one of my favorite trips of all time. plus the fun games and stories that this fabulous person came up with during our journey. wonderful memories.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/05/2024
Donna Largent - Traveled, March 2024
Best trip ever! Very organized; pleasant; informative. So many historical sites included and nice hotels and restaurants.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Trusted Customer - Traveled, February 2024
Great trip wouldn’t change anything. Had a great time! Very informative and insightful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/05/2024
Loring Tupper - Traveled, January 2024
The tour director and all of the local guides were excellent! The itinerary is very full and there wasn't a lot of just driving time. We covered so much it and it was educational, entertaining and the landscape was beautiful.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/15/2024
Gary Moore - Traveled, January 2024
Historical DC trip. Great trip leader and outstanding bus driver. Very nice historical visit and photos.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/31/2024
Lorelei Neumann - Traveled, December 2023
Appreciation for what our forefathers went thru for our freedoms. Absolutely the best with attention given to every detail! Loved all the historical ‘did you know?’ Trivia. The best in hotels, provided meals, bus driver and tour guide
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 01/11/2024
Thomas Haralson Jr - Traveled, January 2024
The tour was great. Kim the tour guide was excellent. She knew the history and made the visits cone alive. Kim was polite, friendly and so very nice to us. The rooms and meals were very good. Darnell, the driver was fantastic. He was friendly and helpful. We felt safe the whole time. We saw all the things we wanted to see. It was well organized and no problems for us.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 02/11/2024
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