Historic Highlights

8 Days Washington DC Return
Historic Highlights
Historic Highlights
Historic Highlights

Overview

Trafalgar
Trip Operated By:
 (1,018) Reviews
Total No. of Tours & Cruises 291
Explore a young nation, on this journey that takes you to Capitol Hill, George Washington’s home, reenactments on Gettysburg’s battlefields and dinner in a haunted tavern. This Mid-Atlantic 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.
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A$4,361 per person
Price shown based on twin share
Save up to $641 per person
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Trip Length
8 Days
Trip Starts
Washington DC
Trip Ends
Washington DC
1 Trip Review
Trip Style
Country Explorer
Accommodation
4 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
5-99 Years
Max. Group Size
48
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
DHIH
Countries Visited:
USA

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 travellers for a dinner to kick-start your journey.

Accommodation: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Included 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 40,000 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.

Accommodation: Washington Marriott Georgetown
Included Meals: Breakfast

Roam the oak-lined avenues of Washington, D.C. and see tributes to America's famous sons and daughters as you explore the nation's proud heritage. View the National Mall, stretching from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol Building, then reflect on the nation's history at the memorials to World War II and the Vietnam War. Continue to Yorktown to visit the American Revolution Museum, where period artefacts and the dramatic Siege of Yorktown bring the fight for independence to life. Your journey then carries on to Williamsburg, founded in 1638 as Middle Plantation and once the capital of the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn Williamsburg
Included 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
Included 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.

Tonight, settle into your hotel, a Stays with Stories experience.

Accommodation: The Draftsman
Included Meals: Breakfast

Journey through the rolling hills of Shenandoah National Park en route to Gettysburg, where you'll uncover the devastation of the four-year Civil War that divided North and South. Visit the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Centre to explore powerful exhibits, artefacts and stories from one of the war's most pivotal battles, while learning how the National Park preserves this solemn battlefield and its legacy.

This evening, indulge in a festive dinner at the 19th-century Dobbin House, said to be Gettysburg's most haunted.

Accommodation: Wyndham Gettysburg
Included 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
Included Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Discover the story of American democracy this morning in Philadelphia. Explore Independence National Historical Park and see the cracked Liberty Bell, whose inscription inspired generations to proclaim liberty. Continue to the National Constitution Center, where immersive exhibits bring the creation of the U.S. Constitution to life, from the debates of the Constitutional Convention to the rights and freedoms it still shapes today.

Walk among the life-size bronze figures in Signers' Hall and uncover the people and ideas behind this defining document. Your journey then comes to an end in Washington, D.C., where you'll be transferred to Dulles International Airport or Ronald Reagan National Airport, or to the Washington Marriott Georgetown if you're extending your stay.

Included Meals: Breakfast

Trip Inclusions

  • Explore Washington, D.C., St. John's Church in Richmond, Gettysburg Battlefield
  • Visit The Smithsonian Institution in Washington DC, 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

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.

Iconic Experience

  • Washington: This striking museum has collected more than 40,000 artefacts 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.
  • 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 theatre 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.
  • 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.
  • 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-style estate where Thomas Jefferson, a key figure of the American Revolution and the third President of the United States, once lived.
  • Gettysburg Museum and Visitor Center: See weapons, uniforms, photographs and other battlefield artefacts at the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum and Visitor Center, alongside exhibits that trace the events of the battle and the lives caught up in it. First-hand accounts from soldiers and civilians reveal what happened here and how Gettysburg was changed forever.
  • 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.

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.

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.

  • 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 (Additional Cost) and free time
  • On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised

  • 3 Dinners (D)
  • 7 Breakfasts (B)
  • 1 Lunch (L)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
  • Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included

Operator

Trafalgar
Total No. of Tours & Cruises291
We are the world’s leading and most awarded travel brand spanning all 7 continents of the globe. From the iconic to the unexpected our guests connect to the real depth of the places we go. They will break bread with the locals at our exclusive Be My Guest experiences and unlock local secrets of our Travel more Directors and Local Specialists. Everything is taken care of, so they travel with true ease and get the real thing without worrying about a thing.

We consider how we can positively impact the communities we engage with. Through our JoinTrafalgar initiatives powered by TreadRight, guests don’t just leave footprints on the ground, but leave a lasting legacy for the betterment of locals and the future of their communities.

It’s 72 years of destination experience and feedback from over 5 million happy guests that fuels our innovation to continually delivery simply the best holidays.
Must-sees to Local Secrets
Must-sees to Local Secrets

You’ll enjoy the icons and hidden gems with a Local Specialist by your side. Read more

Connect with Locals
Connect with Locals

With one on every itinerary, Be My Guest ensures your journey is truly one-of-a-kind, wherever it takes you. Read more

Stay With Stories
Stay With Stories

Find yourself overnighting in accommodations with stories as rich as the destinations you’re exploring. Read more

Trip Reviews (1)

Trafalgar Reviews
Reviews 1 Review
Average Rating 4 out of 5
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1 Star
Tour covered the major highlights we wanted to see. 5 , Australia, May 2013
Overall the tour covered the major highlights we wanted to see. In particular we were impressed with Mt Vernon, Monticello, the field guide at Gettysburg and Jamestown. Feedback was given to Trafalgar that the Shenandoah element was very disappointing particularly the standard of accommodation and its overall relevance to the tour. Far more time should read more have been allocated to visiting significant sites in Richmond e.g the Confederate White House. One visit in Richmond (to a church) grossly understates the importance of the town in an historic highlights context. We would have preferred more time in Jamestown fort and less time in Colonial Williamsburg. The optional excursion in Colonial Williamsburg was not value for money. The Amish experience was disappointing and largely overstated in the tour itinerary.
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Trafalgar USA (2026-27) Brochure

Trafalgar USA (2026-27)

Trafalgar’s USA tours span coast to coast, offering epic journeys through iconic cities, natural wonders, and vibrant local cultures. From the Grand Canyon and New York’s museums to Texan ranches and Alaskan wilds, each itinerary reveals the unforgettable glory of the American landscape and spirit. With highlights ranging from Motown to Mardi Gras, more this is the United States at its most dynamic.

Dates & Pricing AUD AUD

Saturday 08 May 2027 08 May 27 Washington DC
Saturday 15 May 2027 15 May 27 Washington DC
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Saturday 22 May 2027 22 May 27 Washington DC
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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Trafalgar. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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