In Freedom's Footsteps: New York to Washington, DC - 12 Days

Duration

12 Days

Difficulty
Balanced
Start

New York

End

Washington

Rating

*****

Operator

Tauck

2026 is America's Semiquincentennial (250th celebration) – and you'll travel back in time to walk in the footsteps of American history on a journey reimagined for Tauck's centennial year... Embark on a journey that traverses the significant periods of America's history, from the earliest settlements through present day... Discover the nation's economic expansion and industrial growth... 18th-century social and religious movements... the Civil War... political diversity... and the defining themes that shaped the American experience century upon century.  

Explore New York City, a beacon of economic expansion and industrial prowess; stand on the hallowed grounds of Pennsylvania, where the American Army was born; and walk the storied battlefields of Gettysburg with a licensed guide. Immerse yourself in the enduring lifestyle of Amish country, gain insights into the Civil War, and delve into the political diversity that has defined America. Step into the hallowed halls of history with a National Park Service Ranger at Independence Hall, where the bold visions of the Founding Fathers came to life with the signing of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Savor the flavors of the colonial era, enjoy inspired cuisine, and learn about Thomas Jefferson and wine. America's path is rich with history and tradition, inviting you to discover a storied past.

Itinerary

Expand all

Day 1: Welcome to New York City

A transfer is included from John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, or Newark Liberty International Airport to New York Marriott Downtown. Welcome to New York City, a fitting beginning as the city was at the core of so many journeys in our earliest years of operation 100 years ago; your newly updated "downtown" hotel is set apart from the busy atmosphere of Midtown Manhattan. Join us tonight for a special welcome dinner at One World Observatory; enjoy priority access to ascend more than 100 floors – the city is illuminated below you at ONE Dine, the observatory's sophisticated restaurant on the 101st floor.

New York Marriott Downtown
Dinner

Day 2: Exploring New York City

After breakfast, explore the city on foot with a local guide, walking to view iconic sites such as Trinity Church and Federal Hall. Learn about the Wall Street area, home to the New York Stock Exchange, see Battery Park, and the National September 11 Memorial. Board a motorcoach and head uptown, learning about the growth of the city and neighbourhoods, and take a walk through Central Park. The rest of the day is free to explore as you please. 

New York Marriott Downtown
Breakfast

Day 3: Valley Forge and historic Philadelphia

As you leave New York this morning, enjoy its iconic skyline and views of the Statue of Liberty. Head for Valley Forge National Historic Park, considered the birthplace of the American Army, for a guided tour. Have lunch in a building that has stood since 1746, Black Powder Tavern, then it's on to Philadelphia where you'll meet a local guide for sightseeing in the historic district, lined with cobbled streets and 18th-century townhouses.

Sofitel Philadelphia
Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 4: Early access – Museum of the American Revolution

The Museum of the American Revolution, a long-time partner of filmmaker Ken Burns, opens early this morning exclusively for Tauck – which means no crowds so you can explore in-depth. You'll have a guided visit with museum staff that provides expert insights, an "insider's view," into the stories behind the museum's historic artifacts – such as George Washington's original sleeping and office tent from the Revolutionary War. Next, visit Independence Hall, operated by the National Park Service and part of the Independence National Historic Park; a park ranger will provide information on the site during your visit. See the Liberty Bell at the Liberty Bell Center, then your afternoon and evening are free to explore as you please.

Sofitel Philadelphia
Breakfast

Day 5: Lancaster – Amish Country – and on to Gettysburg National Military Park

Travel through rolling Pennsylvania farmland to Lancaster County for a visit to the Amish Farm & House to learn about Amish daily life, powered by nature. Continue on to Gettysburg, where tonight's dinner is truly special. Nearly 400 years of history surround you at a special farm-to-table dinner at historic Mansion House 1757, led by Chef George Keeney, a Culinary Institute of America alumnus.

Wyndham Gettysburg
Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 6: Gettysburg's battlefields, Harpers Ferry, and on to Charlottesville

A morning drive with a licensed Gettysburg Battlefield Guide takes you through some of the hallowed ground, the battlefields. Continue to Harpers Ferry, a National Historical Park that tells the story of John Brown's failed 1859 raid on the town's federal arsenal. The Civil War was fought in more than 10,000 places, the majority of them in the South; homes became headquarters and hospitals as foraging armies swept across American towns like those you'll pass through this afternoon en route to Charlottesville, Virginia.

Omni Charlottesville Hotel
Breakfast Dinner

Day 7: Jefferson's Monticello and Charlottesville

Begin your day in Charlottesville with a visit to Thomas Jefferson's beloved Monticello, the hilltop house he designed, and have lunch at historic Michie Tavern. Renowned for its locally produced wines, Charlottesville and the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) have been honored by Wine Enthusiast. Enjoy a private wine tasting at family-owned Jefferson Vineyards, set on historic land once intended for Virginia's first vineyards under Thomas Jefferson's vision. Your evening is free. 

Omni Charlottesville Hotel
Breakfast Lunch

Day 8: Historic Richmond & on to Colonial Williamsburg

Richmond was capital of Virginia and the capital of the Confederate States of America during the war. Experience Richmond's role in shaping American ideals with a stirring one-man performance by Patrick Henry at historic St. John's Church – site of his legendary "Give me liberty or give me death" speech. Following lunch at a local seafood restaurant, travel to Colonial Williamsburg, where you'll enjoy dinner this evening at an 18th-century style tavern.

Williamsburg Lodge
Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 9: Explore Colonial Williamsburg as you please

Today, you have the entire day at your leisure to delve into the rich history of Colonial Williamsburg. If you wish, there are a variety of activities to choose from – you can visit informative museums, stroll through the historically restored town, browse through unique shops – or just unwind in beautifully maintained green spaces and gardens.

Williamsburg Lodge
Breakfast

Day 10: George Washington's Estate and Washington, D.C.

Travel to Mount Vernon, the estate of America's first President George Washington, overlooking the Potomac River. Following lunch at Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant, you'll have an opportunity to explore areas of the estate that illuminate Washington's life, leadership, and legacy. Arrive late afternoon in Washington, D.C. for a two-night stay at the historic Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. – you couldn't be in a better hotel or a better location. This evening, join us for a fascinating illuminated Washington, D.C. Memorials Tour. 

Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C
Breakfast Lunch Dinner

Day 11: A day well spent in Washington, D.C.

First up today, a Tauck exclusive – early admission to the Rotunda of the National Archives for a private viewing of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, with welcome comments by a National Archives insider that illuminate their enduring legacy and the remarkable vision behind their creation. Your afternoon is free; join us for Washington, D.C. sightseeing or enjoy time as you please. Tonight, a memorable week concludes with a farewell reception and dinner at The Willard. 

Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
Breakfast Dinner

Day 12: Journey home

Tour ends: Washington, DC. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C. to Ronald Reagan National Airport or Dulles International Airport; please allow a minimum of two hours for flight check-in at the airport. You can, of course, extend your stay.

Breakfast

Includes

  • 11 nights in handpicked 4 & 5 star hotels
  • Comfortable coaches with bathroom facilities (w/c)
  • 24/7 personal service – knowledgeable Travel Director & expert driver
  • Porterage, plus tips and gratuities at hotels and restaurants are included
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary 

Excludes

  • Flights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book flights
  • Pre & post nights - please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to obtain a quote and book additional nights
  • Driver & Tour Director gratuities - these can be pre-paid, please ask your reservations agent when booking your tour

Choose a Group Size / Service or Room Level

selected package title

Choose a Date

Choose Your Departure Date

Loading dates...

Prices shown above are per person based on 2 adults sharing. For single, triple, quad and child prices please call us for a quote.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 to check the latest up-to-date availability and to book your tour.

Frequently Asked Questions

Expand all

How much is the deposit to secure a tour and when is the balance due?

A deposit of 10% is required when making your booking.

The balance of the holiday cost must be received by us no less than 10 weeks prior to your date of departure. Bookings made within 10 weeks of departure require full payment at the time of booking.

For some tours or if there is a special "Early Booking offer", the balance maybe due sooner than 10 weeks before departure, in this case you will be advised at time of booking when the balance due date would be.

The balance payment date will be shown on your confirmation invoice. 

Payments can be made by debit card, credit card or bank transfers.

YOUR PAYMENTS TO US ARE FULLY FINANCIALLY SECURE FOR YOUR PEACE OF MIND: Where your confirmed travel arrangements include a flight and you are resident in the UK (or EU) or the flight departs from, arrives in or transits the UK, this is financially protected through our Air Travel Organiser’s Licence (ATOL) number 6874 managed by the Civil Aviation Authority, Gatwick Airport South, West Sussex, RH6 0YR, UK, telephone 0333 103 6350, email claims@caa. co.uk.

CANCELLATIONS: Cancellations t&c's can differ from operator to operator, these will be confirmed to you with your booking confirmation. For our general Terms and conditions and general cancellation details please click here.

What does the tour cost include?

The per person price listed covers all hotel accommodations, taxes, all applicable sightseeing and admissions as per the itinerary, motor coach, cruise or rail transportation, services of a professional Travel Director, all meals as shown in the itinerary and luggage handling. All tips have been included for services on trip by dining-room staff, chambermaids and porters at hotels, airports, docks and train stations.

Can we book flights through you ?

Yes, we can offer competitive airfares with all the major airlines. When booking a package with us that includes flights and a tour, your package is then fully ATOL Bonded by the CAA for your full financial peace of mind.  You are of course are welcome to book flights independently but we are therefore not responsible should your flights be delayed and you miss any part of your tour or other arrangements booked with us.  

Can I add additional hotel nights before or after my tour?

Many of our clients choose to add extra hotel nights to spend a little more time in their chosen destination. You can reserve additional hotel nights before or after your tour.

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your additional nights and assist with your requirements.   

Can i book twin beds or triple and quad rooms

Yes, We have options for twin (2 beds) and triple/quad room configurations.

If you a travelling in a party of three or four adult guests, please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

For double rooms (2 guests), 1 Double/Queen or King bed is the normal, Twin beds can be requested at time of booking.

For triple rooms (3 guests) these will normally have 1 Queen/King bed and a fold out bed, or 2 Queen/King beds and a fold out bed.

For Quad rooms (4 Guests) these will normally have 2 Queen/King beds.

How much is the solo/single supplement?

Escorted tours are the perfect option if you're travelling solo, combining the camaraderie of a smaller group with the independence of a solo trip. Many tours offer solo room share options, or a competitive solo supplement. 

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for your requirements.

How many guests will be on this tour?

Tauck offer up to 3 different group sizes on some tours.

Classic group departures have an average of 35 - 44 Guests.

For small group departures these average 24 guest and then some tours also offer smaller group departures which average around 15 guests.

How much walking with be on this tour?

With your comfort in mind, Purely Escorted Tours assigns every tour an activity level. The activity level for your chosen tour is displayed in the tour introduction.

Leisurely: Tours will typically have minimal to 1-2 miles of walking per day on primarily flat surfaces and with some stairs. 

Balanced: Tours typically have up to 1-3 miles of walking per day, which may include some uneven surfaces such as cobblestones and stairs. 

Dynamic: These journeys can feature 4+ miles of walking on some days and may involve some steep hills.   

Do the coaches have on-board Wi-Fi and bathroom facilities

Tauck coaches are modern, well-appointed buses with comfortable seating, large windows for viewing, and on-board amenities like Wi-Fi and bathrooms. 

While the specific coach model may vary by tour and region, guests can expect an upgrade from standard coaches, reflecting Tauck's commitment to luxury and an elevated travel experience. 

The coaches are equipped to provide a high level of comfort and convenience, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the scenery during their travels.

The coaches offer onboard Wi-Fi, bathroom facilities (w/c), charging unites, reclining seats, air conditioning, footrests, tray tables, drink holders and seat pockets 

Are gratuities included for the driver, tour director and at restaurants etc?

Gratuities are included at hotels and restaurants. And, you have the option to pre-pay your Travel Director and driver gratuities before you travel if you wish.  

Please call us on 0844 80 444 80 and our travel experts will be able to provide a quote for you to pre-pay driver and tour director gratuities.

Do you offer/include Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is not included in your tour and we do not offer travel insurance.

Please procure Travel Insurance before travelling. This will protect you and will give you peace of mind before you travel and whilst on your tour.

We suggest that your insurance covers the following:

  • Cancellation or curtailment of your vacation due to medical or other reasons
  • Loss or damage to your property and baggage
  • Loss of cash, credit cards etc
  • Medical costs and personal accidents

Certain countries require visitors to have valid medical insurance on entry and in Europe, you may find that doctor's surgeries, dentists and hospitals often require payment in cash prior to providing services. Whilst rare, medical evacuation can be exceptionally expensive. 

Do remember to bring a copy of your policy, contact phone numbers and details of how to claim when you travel. 

Should you choose to travel on Purely Escorted Tour without the required travel insurance, you will have full responsibility for all expenses (trip interruption, trip delay, medical expenses, quarantine expenses and emergency evacuation/repatriation) that may arise while travelling with us.

What does a guaranteed departure mean?

A guaranteed departure has reached the minimum number of guests for the tour to operate or will depart no matter how many people are booked to travel. 

In the slim case that a guaranteed departure has to be withdrawn that you are booked on due to a unforeseen circumstances, you are entitled to a full refund on the funds already paid or if flexible with your time, we can move you onto another departure that suits you.

What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?

Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks and so it is strongly advised that you consult your local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.

Note: Purely Escorted Tours is not responsible for obtaining any necessary visas required on your tour.

Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:

Europe trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.

Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.

Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country for example an ETA when transiting through UK & Ireland.

Please ensure that you carry proper identification with you at all times, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc. 

United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travellers:

From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. 

UK eTA applications can be made at the UK Governments official website.   

USA trips incl transiting travellers: 

US law requires travellers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.

ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website. 

Canada trips:

Canadian law requires travellers both entering and transiting through Canada to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel.   

eTA applications can be made at the Government of Canada's website.

Rest of the World trips:

Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them. 

What if I have mobility issues?

Please notify us of any disability requiring special assistance prior to travelling. We will try our best to accommodate you throughout the tour and will inform the hotels.

What if I have food allergies?

Please advise us of any dietary requirements. We will make arrangements with our suppliers where possible.

You will also need to talk to your Travel Director at the beginning of your tour and they will do their utmost to arrange an alternative menu at the hotels and restaurants.

How much luggage can I bring?

Travelling on a Purely Escorted Tour entitles each guest to travel with one suitcase not exceeding 23kg (50lbs) in weight, with dimensions not exceeding 77.5cm (30.5in) x 56cm (22in) x 32cm (12.5in). Guests may also bring one item of hand luggage that is small and light enough to be carried onto the coach and fit underneath the seat, or in the small overhead compartment above. (Luggage with adjustable handles and wheels will not fit).

Please test the weight of your baggage prior to travel. You should be able to lift and comfortably transport it for short distances.

Baggage allowances vary from airline to airline and you should check with your chosen carrier for details prior to travel.  

GBP £5,359.00 / Adult
Need help with booking?

Inquiry Form

*
*
*
*

Contact Us - Call us on 0844 80 444 80 or email via the contact form below...

*
*
*
*
*

Choose Your Departure Date