The nation's capital is more exciting than ever! Major new museums have recently opened to showcase special collections and the hallowed World War II memorial now graces the National Mall. In addition, Washington, D.C. is home to excellent theater and music and sumptuous restaurants. Learn more about the history of the nation's capital, enjoy special programs at the newest Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of the American Indian and the National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center, and enjoy unscheduled time to pursue personal interests.    

• Smithsonian historian Pam Henson traces the history of the Institution beginning with the intriguing bequest by the English scientist James Smithson in 1829 to the present-day complex of museums and research centers.
• During a talk by historian Kenneth Bowling, hear the intimate story of the nation's capital, featuring a look back at the ideals and practical issues that underlay the city's establishment.

Day 1: Washington, D.C. - Tour Begins
Explore the nation’s capital at your leisure prior to a special welcome reception and dinner. (D)

Day 2: Washington, D.C.
Begin your day with a presentation on the Smithsonian Institution's intriguing collections, followed by a city sightseeing tour. Travel along Pennsylvania Avenue, the grand boulevard connecting the White House and Capitol Hill, to view the impressive U.S. Capitol and the venerable Supreme Court. During a visit to the Library of Congress, learn about the Library's vast collections and spectacular architecture, and enjoy a panoramic perspective of the historic Reading Room from the viewing area. Return to your hotel for a delightful presentation about the nation's capital. A free evening provides the opportunity to experience one of Washington's fine restaurants, attend a theater performance, or simply relax. (B)

Day 3: Washington, D.C.
Arrive early in the morning for a guided tour of the new Udvar-Hazy Center, the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum's newest facility located near Dulles Airport. This striking museum currently exhibits over a hundred aircraft and space artifacts, many of which have never been on display for the public. View historic aircraft hanging aloft and walk among artifacts on the floor, including the supersonic Concorde passenger jet and the SR-71 "Blackbird" reconnaissance aircraft, and the Space Shuttle "Enterprise." The remainder of the day and evening are at leisure to pursue personal interests. (B)

Day 4: Washington, D.C.
Enjoy a narrated coach tour of the national monuments and memorials of Washington, D.C. Begin your tour at Arlington National Cemetery, final resting place for many national heroes. Pay tribute to the Shuttle Columbia astronauts at the new memorial dedicated to the members, as well as to John F. Kennedy, at the eternal flame that marks his gravesite. En route to the National Mall view the stately monuments to Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln, and stop to walk through the newest memorial, dedicated to the veterans of World War II. In the afternoon, attend a guided tour of the National Gallery of Art. This important art gallery is home to paintings by the Old Masters, French Impressionists, and many other important artists. (B, D)

Day 5: Washington, D.C.
This morning visit the fascinating National Museum of the American Indian. The museum possesses the largest and most extensive collection of Native American art and artifacts in the world. This 16th and the newest museum of the Smithsonian Institution was opened to the public in September 2004. Your day continues with a guided tour of the Freer Gallery of Art, known for its comprehensive collection of Asian art as well as its American art collection, including Whistler's Peacock Room. This evening, gather with fellow travelers and celebrate your Washington journey during a sumptuous farewell dinner. (B, D)

Day 6: Washington, D.C - Tour Concludes
(B)


Stay a little longer...with a 1 night pre-tour or post-tour stay in
Washington, D.C., starting at $100 per person, double.