U.S. City Breaks: Washington D.C.
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U.S. Capitol ©Courtesy of TheTourOperator
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Washington monument ©Courtesy of TheTourOperator
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U.S. Capitol Dome ©Courtesy of TheTourOperator
Join us on this city break to one of the most powerful cities in the world, Washington D.C. Capital of the USA. The nation’s capital isn’t just for politicos and aspiring politicians. It’s also a hub of food, culture and history. From glitzy drinks at some of the best cocktail bars in D.C. to marvellous exhibits at the best museums. There are tons of awesome activities in the District.
Take this opportunity to discover Washington’s myriad of museums and monuments. Live and breathe the beauty and the horror of the nation’s history and famous figures. Here, you can go through emotions through the evocative works of historians and artists. Furthermore, take in the city’s beauty with an unforgettable experience, cruising along the Potomac River.
During this tour you will get the opportunity to be guided by a local expert around all the sights. This will give you an intriguing and learned tour of Washington. You’ll also get the chance to see some of the most famous sites that tell tales of some of the most historical figures such as Abraham Lincoln and George Washington.
Additionally, spend a day seeing the cultural collection of Washington and there is nothing that quite compares to the Smithsonian Institution, a collection of 19 museums all awaiting your own personal discovery. Why not complement all the history and culture with a tasty treat! Take a trip to one of Washington’s most famous distilleries for a guided tour before being let loose in a haven of culinary deliciousness at Union Market.
Dates
Dates on request
Day 1
Arrive & Entertainment Cruise
Depart the UK and head stateside. After transferring to your hotel and settling in, before you get deeply involved into the stories behind Washington, why not start your Capital adventure with an entertainment river cruise. Drift along on a cruise offering excellent dining and drinking experiences whilst showcasing the beautiful Washington skyline. It is the perfect way to start your adventure.
Day 2
US Capital and Monuments
Today explore the many highlights of Washington DC. Why not board the hop on hop off bus to explore at your own pace, or perhaps enjoy a private tour. Guided by a local expert, see all the sights and hear intriguing information on your first full day in Washington. See the White House – because a trip to Washington isn’t complete without seeing the presidential home. Furthermore, pay your respects at the Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, as well as many sobering war memorials. As well as this, visit the memorials and sites of former presidents such as John F. Kennedy, Franklin Roosevelt Memorial, and the awe-inspiring Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Additionally this area is rich with landscaped gardens – perhaps visit a few! Even when visiting the Washington National Cathedral, you will be treated to acres of charming gardens. At the US Botanic Garden, designed to look like the Crystal Palace, you will find a vast range of plants from orchids and roses to tropical rain forest dwelling species.
Day 3
Gettysburg/ Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Day trip
Travel to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s popular plantation in Virginia and one of the nation’s most beloved historic sites. Learn about his life and tour his home of more than 40 years. Then enjoy a guided bus trip around Old Town Alexandria. See the many historic 17th- and 18th-century homes, hear colourful stories about this founding father and discover little known facts about all the monuments, statues and buildings in the area.
However, if you’d prefer a more interactive US history lesson, why not take a day trip to Gettysburg to explore some of its deepest historical roots. Here, you can learn about the largest battle ever fought on American soil during a narrated show and a detailed miniature military diorama. A tremendous experience, this is sure to excite and unleash the historian in you!
Day 4
Smithsonian Institution, Distillery tour then Union Market tour
Spend the morning roaming across the incomparable Smithsonian Institution, a collection of 19 Museums, each as an intriguing as the other. Perhaps, you can visit the magnificent jewels, dinosaurs and mammals on display at the National Museum of Natural History, the planes and interactive flight simulators at the National Air and Space Museum, or the stories, arts and crafts at the National Museum of the American Indian. Afterwards, you can head to the Cotton & Reed distillery for a tour and try award-winning cocktails. Then, head next door for the chance to visit Union Market, DC’s trendiest feasting ground. A revived mid-century produce- and meat-selling bazaar that holds food stalls, informal restaurants and kitchenware boutiques.
Day 5
Departure
The time has come to depart from Washington DC. Transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
