National Archives
See the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other founding documents up close and in person.
Trip Highlights
Washington, DC, Gettysburg and Philadelphia: Key Highlights
Discover America’s story from its colonial roots to its modern capital. Explore the historic towns and sites of Colonial Virginia, then journey to Washington, DC, to see how the vision of the nation’s founders lives on in its iconic landmarks and institutions.
Evening Memorial Tour
Pay tribute at the Lincoln Memorial, then continue to the solemn walls of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the haunting figures at the Korean War Veterans Memorial—three powerful sites honoring sacrifice, service, and the fight for freedom.
Gettysburg with Guided Battlefield Tour
Your Gettysburg journey begins at the visitor center, where you can see the museum, film, and view the cyclorama, before returning to your bus, where your licensed battlefield guide will bring the history of the Battle of Gettysburg to life.
Museum of the American Revolution
Explore the story of America’s founding through immersive exhibits, original artifacts, and engaging multimedia.
Washington, DC, Gettysburg and Philadelphia: Day-by-Day Itinerary
Arrive in Washington, DC
Mount Vernon
Arlington National Cemetery
Independence Hall
Arrive in Washington, DC
Stop 1: Arrive in Washington, DC
Stop 2: U.S. Capitol
On a guided tour of the iconic U.S. Capitol, discover American history and politics, learn how Congress operates, and how laws are made.
Stop 3: Library of Congress Photo Stop
Take a photo stop at the world’s largest library.
Stop 4: U.S. Supreme Court Photo Stop
Take a photo stop at the nation’s most recognized courthouse.
Stop 5: National Archives
See the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of Rights, and other founding documents up close and in person.
Stop 6: Smithsonian American History Museum
From the Star-Spangled Banner to pop culture icons, explore the objects that shaped the nation.
Stop 7: Holocaust Memorial Museum
This deeply moving museum explores the Holocaust through stories of courage, tragedy, and survival.
Stop 8: Lincoln Memorial
At Lincoln’s statue, take time to reflect on leadership, freedom, and civil rights. Stand where MLK stood the day he gave the “I have a Dream” speech, read the Gettysburg Address, and more.
Stop 9: Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Walk along the polished black granite walls of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, each etched with the names of more than 58,000 service members killed in action, or still missing in action.
Stop 10: Korean War Veterans Memorial
Walk among life-size statues of soldiers and polished walls etched with names, reflecting on the bravery and sacrifice of Korean War veterans.
Stop 11: Overnight in Washington, DC
Mount Vernon
Stop 1: Mount Vernon
Explore George Washington’s historic estate with scenic Potomac River views. Visit the museum, the recently renovated education center (re-opening Spring 2026), tomb, grounds, and Revolutionary Encampment.
Stop 2: National Museum of the US Army
Discover the history of the U.S. Army through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and soldier stories at this state-of-the-art museum.
Stop 3: Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture
Step into the museum that brings African American history to life, from the struggles of slavery to the triumphs of the civil rights movement, and the enduring impact of African Americans on the United States.
Stop 4: Ford’s Theatre
Explore the site where the end of Lincoln’s life unfolded, from the evening of his assassination to exhibits that highlight his legacy, leadership, and lasting impact on the nation.
Stop 5: White House Photo Stop
Take a photo stop at the nation’s most recognized residence.
Stop 6: Jefferson Memorial
Perched on the Tidal Basin, this memorial is dedicated to the legacy of Thomas Jefferson: founding father, author of the Declaration of Independence, and third President of the United States.
Stop 7: Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Step into a landscape that tells the story of Franklin D. Roosevelt’s presidency, from economic recovery to wartime leadership.
Stop 7: Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Walk through a powerful memorial honoring Martin Luther King, Jr., where a towering stone statue and engraved excerpts from his speeches inspire reflection on equality, justice, and civil rights.
Stop 8: Overnight in Washington, DC
Arlington National Cemetery
Stop 1: Arlington National Cemetery
Pay your respect to the heroes at this sacred site. Witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the JFK gravesite, and more.
Stop 2: U.S. Marine Corps Memorial/Iwo Jima Memorial
Walk among one of the nation’s most recognizable military memorials, where a dramatic bronze depiction of the Iwo Jima flag-raising celebrates the courage, unity, and sacrifice of U.S. Marines.
Stop 3: Depart via motorcoach for Gettysburg
Stop 4: Gettysburg Visitor Center with Film and Cyclorama
Start your Gettysburg visit at the Museum & Visitor Center featuring exhibits, a film, and the iconic Cyclorama painting of Pickett’s Charge.
Stop 5: Gettysburg Battlefield Tour
Tour the Gettysburg battlefield with a licensed Battlefield guide and walk the grounds where the Civil War’s turning point unfolded in July 1863.
Stop 6: Depart via motorcoach for Philadelphia, PA
Independence Hall
Stop 1: Independence Hall
Step inside the birthplace of American democracy, where the Declaration of Independence was signed and the US Constitution was drafted.
Stop 2: Liberty Bell
Visit the iconic Liberty Bell and learn about its powerful symbolism in American history and the fight for freedom.
Stop 3: Museum of the American Revolution
Explore the story of America’s founding through immersive exhibits, original artifacts, and engaging multimedia.
Stop 4: Lunch at Reading Terminal Market
This historic indoor market offers diverse local foods, handmade goods, and a vibrant atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Stop 5: Depart for Home
Comprehensive Travel Packages, No Surprises
Transparent pricing and inclusive planning mean accommodations, meals, activities, and safety are all taken care of.
Included:
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Transportation
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Lodging
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Meals
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Guide
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Insurance
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Overnight Security
Add-Ons:
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Wreath Laying
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Souvenir Photo
Real Reviews
By Real Teachers and Parents
Rated 9.75/10 by educators nationwide — directly from Post Tour Surveys
I’d say in the 24 years we have done this trip, this is one of the best which aggravates me it took us this long to find such great service and price which is important to me.
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Thank you NationsClassroom for making it a memorable and insightful trip. Great food options, and very nice hotels.
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My 15th phenomenal trip with an amazing company and even better people.
Our tour guide was so thorough, and we learned so much about every place we visited. I wouldn’t take on our Nation’s Capital any other way.
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My son could not stop talking about his experience in Washington DC. I’m sure he will talk about it for years to come. He said it was one of the best trips he has been on.
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The Most Frequently Asked Questions for Teachers and Parents
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