America's Historic Trail

Day 2 Washington DC

Today we'll discover the highlights of Washington DC on a guided tour. You'll see all the iconic sights which line the National Mall up to the Capitol Building, including the immense Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and of course, we'll make a stop at the White House. There is so much to see and do in Washington DC, so we've left this afternoon free for you to explore independently or in the company of your travelling companions. The Smithsonian is a collection of 19 world-class museums - all are free to enter, and most are located around the mall.

This evening join your travelling companions on a sightseeing drive of the National monuments which will be lit and look even more spectacular. We’ll end the evening with a welcome dinner together at a local restaurant.

Day 3 Washington DC - Charlottesville

This morning we’ll cross the Potomac River from Washington DC to Arlington National Cemetery. Here we'll join a trolley tour to see this exceptional site, making a stop at the Kennedy grave site. Next, we'll travel to Old Town Alexandria, with beautifully preserved 18th and 19th century architecture, brick sidewalks and a thriving food, arts and culture scene. There are many cafes and restaurants on King Street, which leads directly to the Old Town's attractive harbour.

Later we’ll head south into the state of Virginia and the city of Charlottesville. Part of our journey will be along the Skyline Drive, that runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, in Shenandoah National Park. There are many scenic overlooks to stop at which, on a clear day, offer amazing views over the landscape.

Day 4 Monticello

Our highlight today is a visit to Monticello, the magnificent home of Thomas Jefferson, third President of the United States and author of the Declaration of Independence.
We'll tour his house, where we'll find out more about Jefferson’s legacy, explore the magnificent gardens, and learn about Monticello’s enslaved community at this historical treasure. We’ll stop for a typical southern lunch at a local tavern dating back to 1784. Later we’ll head to the city of Richmond, capital of the Confederacy during the American Civil War. Today, Richmond is a buzzing city, located on the banks of the James River. Here, you will find the Virginia State Capitol, a building designed by Thomas Jefferson and, if it's fashionable shops and restaurants you crave, be sure to make a beeline for the historic district of Shockoe Slip.

Day 5 Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown

Today we'll experience the beginnings of modern America, visiting Colonial Williamsburg, which is now a living history museum that faithfully recreates what life was like in one of the first thriving colonies. We’ll continue to Jamestown Settlement, where the first British settlement was established in 1607. There we'll see exhibits that demonstrate what daily life was like for the early colonists, the Virginia Indians who lived on the land for centuries, and the first documented arrival of West Central Africans in 1619.

Day 6 Richmond - Philadelphia

This morning we’ll travel to Lancaster County. Less than three hours' drive from the heart of the American government, we'll discover America's oldest Amish settlement. On a tour of the Dutch Country we'll meet the people who live a centuries-old 'Plain' lifestyle and see how windmills are used to harness the power of nature. Here, the horse and buggy is the primary form of transport and you may choose to take a ride in one before we head to Philadelphia.

Day 7 Philadelphia

Today we’ll explore the USA's original capital, Philadelphia, a liberal melting pot of people and cultures. It's here that the Declaration of Independence was written, signed and introduced in 1776. Our morning walking tour will show you the highlights of the 'most historic square mile in the United States' including the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Congress Hall and Christ Church, where George Washington and Benjamin Franklin once worshipped. We’ll end with a short visit to the Museum of the American Revolution before some time for lunch at the historic Reading Terminal Market where you will find plenty of local produce to sample from Amish pretzels to a Philly cheese steak sandwich. There will be free time this afternoon if you wish to visit one of the many museums and galleries along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art and it’s famous “Rocky steps”.

Day 8 Departure

Today it's time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers as your trip comes to an end.