Head east for Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and the notable settlements, landmarks, significant battlefields and presidential estates of the historic East. America’s greatest chapters in history come to life as you stroll down the quaint streets of Colonial Williamsburg and Jamestown, march in the steps of American Revolution and Civil War soldiers and stand inside the remarkable Palladian walls of George Washington’s Mount Vernon and Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello. Prepare to be moved as this East Coast vacation leads you to the marbled memorials of D.C., the sacred site of Lincoln’s Gettysburg address, and the symbolic Liberty Bell in the City of Brotherly Love. Combining the nation’s birthplace with national treasures and small town gems – plus a visit to see the wonder and expansive views of Shenandoah National Park – this vacation through America’s historic East promises discovery and wonder for all.
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.
We’ve packed everything you need for the perfect tour—from hand-selected hotels and dining to the friendly expertise of Globus Tour Directors and Local Guides, to seamless transportation between destinations and VIP access to the world’s most iconic sites! Touring by private, first-class, air-conditioned motorcoach with free Wi-Fi. Enhance your free time with your GlobusGO mobile app! PLUS, your tour includes your choice of excursions in Williamsburg so you can plan your day your way.
Notes: Guests should be prepared for easy but sustained walking throughout the tour.
Welcome to Washington DC! At 6 pm, meet with your Tour Director and traveling companions for a welcome drink
Day 2 WASHINGTON DC
Monuments & Moving Memorials
On a sightseeing tour, see many of Washington DC’s famous landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, Library of Congress, Kennedy Center, historic Georgetown, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial plus the [LF] Vietnam and Korean War Veterans Memorials, with stops for photos at the White House and at Capitol Hill. Try our optional dinner tonight at one of Washington’s favorite restaurants, followed by an illumination tour of the monuments at night. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
GEORGETOWN Georgetown’s 18th and 19th century grand mansions have been home to politicians, celebrities, and famous Washingtonians in one of the oldest neighborhoods in the district and continue to attract the DC elite. The cobblestone roads, waterfront views, upscale bars, trendy boutiques, and diverse culinary scene draw locals and tourists to the charming, historic area Breakfast
Day 3 WASHINGTON DC–MOUNT VERNON, VIRGINIA–FREDERICKSBURG–WILLIAMSBURG
U.S. History & Heroes
Visit Mount Vernon, the restored home of George Washington en route to Fredericksburg. Tour the house and gardens and visit the museums. Continue south to Fredericksburg, known for its role in both the American Revolution and the Civil War. After an orientation tour, enjoy a bit of free time to explore the historic district. Continue to [LF] Williamsburg for a 2-night stay and dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
A LEGEND SLEPT HERE The Virginia mansion estate of America’s first president, Mount Vernon is one of the most iconic 18th-century homes in America. The patriot and president renovated the home, and it grew to 10 times the size of the average home in colonial Virginia. George Washington began running Mount Vernon in 1752 and slowly enlarged the dwelling to create the current 21-room residence. Washington oversaw each renovation, advising on design, construction, and decoration; the changes reflect his growing status as a Virginia gentleman and ultimately as the leader of a new nation.
LOCAL FAVORITE
HISTORIC SITE Williamsburg is a historic treasure you’ll love exploring. After English settlers founded the colony in 1632, it became the center of political events in Virginia leading to the American Revolution. History lovers are drawn to restored Colonial Williamsburg, part of the Historic Triangle with Jamestown and Yorktown – where America was born BreakfastDinner
Day 4 WILLIAMSBURG
Spend Your Day Your Way in Williamsburg. This morning, immerse yourself in Colonial Williamsburg with an exclusive [LF] performance from Sylvia Tabb-Lee, a professional historian. This afternoon, explore more of the Historic Triangle with your choice of included excursions. The rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy Williamsburg. (B)
LOCAL FAVORITE
HISTORIC MOMENTS Join renowned historian actor Sylvia Tabb-Lee for a fascinating and moving performance that illuminates and inspires insight into the experience of slaves in American history. In keeping with her philosophy of “Each One, Teach One; Each One, Reach One,” Tabb-Lee is a wealth of information and inspiration in sharing the trials and triumphs of African American history.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SITE When the Virginia Company settlers landed at Jamestown to establish an English colony 60 miles from the Chesapeake Bay in 1607, they faced enormous challenges and hardships in a dramatic experience of disease and famine. Within the wooden fort here was England’s first permanent colony in North America and it planted the seeds for the United States of America to grow. Hear the dramatic details of this insurmountable venture with a tour led by an expert guide, including the legend of Captain John Smith, the dark, starving winter of 1609, and the story of Pocahontas – all part of the thrilling story of America’s birthplace.
TAKE YOUR PICK
Explore your way today with your choice of excursions:
PATRIOTS’ DREAMS Visit the nearby Jamestown Settlement for a guided tour to learn about the first permanent English settlement in the New World. Then, enter Colonial Williamsburg’s Historic Area, where costumed villagers add to the authenticity. Stroll down the quaint streets, browse through historic trade shops, and see the Public Gaol. Also, be sure to stop at Raleigh Tavern, the meeting place for Thomas Jefferson, Patrick Henry, and other patriots.
OR:
HISTORIC STEPS Journey through historic Williamsburg on a walking tour, “We Shall Overcome: A Black History Experience.” Embark on a tour that transports you to the very paths walked by both free and enslaved inhabitants of Williamsburg. Immerse yourself in the remarkable history of the African American experience in colonial America Breakfast
Day 5 WILLIAMSBURG–RICHMOND–MONTICELLO–STAUNTON
Historic Figures First stop is Richmond, Virginia’s capital and once the capital of the Confederacy. Visit St. John’s Church, where Patrick Henry proclaimed, “Give me liberty or give me death!” Next, visit Thomas Jefferson’s estate at Monticello, the Palladian style structure designed by President Jefferson and displayed on the back of the U.S. nickel currency. Spend the evening in Staunton, nestled in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ICONIC FOOTSTEPS Visit the home of America’s third president, founder of University of Virginia and principal author of the Declaration of Independence, Thomas Jefferson, at his grand estate at Monticello. Stroll the beautiful gardens and explore the majestic mansion designed by Jefferson over a 40-year period. Learn about the history of this plantation with a Local Guide Breakfast
Day 6 STAUNTON–SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK
Complex Views Visit the Woodrow Wilson Presidential Library, located at the 28th president’s birthplace. Gain a better understanding of the life and times of President Woodrow Wilson, his impact on the world, and his relevance today and for the future. Then, journey to beautiful Shenandoah National Park. (B,D)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
NATURAL WONDERS Travel to the spectacular expansive vistas of Shenandoah National Park along the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia. Enjoy photo stops and panoramic vistas from Skyline Drive en route to the historic Skyland Resort, established in the late 1800’s BreakfastDinner
Day 7 SHENANDOAH NATIONAL PARK–GETTYSBURG, PENNSYLVANIA
Hallowed Grounds Continue across West Virginia and Maryland into Pennsylvania to Gettysburg National Military Park. Tour Gettysburg and hear your Local Guide vividly recount the Battle of 1863. A Colonial-style candlelight dinner tonight at the elegant [LF] Dobbin House Tavern, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. (B,D)
LOCAL FAVORITE
LOCAL TASTES Be transported back in time to the early days of America with a Colonial-style candlelight dinner at Dobbin House Tavern. This elegant Gettysburg restaurant is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. A notable address in Gettysburg!
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT Stay overnight at the historic Hotel Gettysburg, established in 1797. President Lincoln honed the immortal words of his Gettysburg Address just steps away from the hotel, and nearly a century later, the hotel served as President Dwight Eisenhower’s National Operations Center BreakfastDinner
Day 8 GETTYSBURG–LANCASTER–VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL HISTORIC PARK–PHILADELPHIA
Pennsylvania’s Past & Present Visit a family-owned farm and country market, specializing in cheese production in rural Pennsylvania and taste the dairy creations and flavorful favorites. Travel through Lancaster County past Amish farmland to Valley Forge National Historic Park and continue to Philadelphia, where your Tour Director hosts a special farewell dinner on the historic Moshulu ship. Launched in 1904, she had a long and exciting career on the seas and is now considered one of Philadelphia’s best restaurants.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
LEGENDARY LIVES Visit Valley Forge National Historic Park to see the camp where Washington and his troops endured the harsh winter of 1777–1778. See the Memorial Arch, the Grand Parade, and the Washington Memorial Chapel
Day 9 PHILADELPHIA
Lovers of Liberty Sightseeing this morning features the “City of Brotherly Love” famed historic treasures, including the Liberty Bell. Your vacation ends with a motorcoach drop at the Philadelphia International Airport or Washington DC tour hotel for those with post-nights. Schedule departing flights from Philadelphia International Airport after 1:30 pm. (B)
TOUR HIGHLIGHT
HISTORIC SITES The Liberty Bell bears a timeless message: "Proclaim Liberty Throughout All the Land unto all the Inhabitants Thereof" where it rang out from Independence Hall to summon lawmakers to work and the citizenry to gather for news. Benjamin Franklin noted while writing a letter, "Adieu, the bell rings, and I must go among the grave ones and talk ‘politicks.’" Go beyond the iconic crack to learn how this State House bell was transformed into an extraordinary symbol of civil rights and still resounds with a message of freedom and hope.
Accommodations
Washington DC
Williamsburg
Staunton
Shenandoah National Park
Gettysburg
Philadelphia
Capital Hilton Superior First-Class
1001 16th St Nw Washington DC United States
Located two blocks from the White House and within closing walking distance to downtown attractions, shopping and restaurants, this hotel is a perfect location for your visit to DC. The hotel features a lobby lounge, full service restaurant, gift shop, ATM, concierge, premier health club and full service day spa. This hotel is 100% non-smoking.
Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites Moderate First-Class
105 Visitor Center Drive Williamsburg VA United States
History buffs will love the location of the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites for its easy access to the Visitor Center and colonial Williamsburg. Everything you want to experience in this historic city is right at your fingertips - and after a day out and about, you can return to guaranteed comfort, friendly service, and all the amenities this great property has to offer.
Hotel 24 South Superior First-Class
24 South Market St. Staunton VA United States
Nestled in historic downtown Staunton in the heart of the picturesque Shenandoah Valley, the hotel captures the spirit, history, and charm of the old South. Originally built in 1924 and a member of Historic Hotels of America, Hotel 24 South (formerly the Stonewall Jackson Hotel) has been restored to its original grandeur with modern amenities.
Skyland Resort Moderate First-Class
mile 41.7 on Skyland Drive Luray VA United States
Located inside Shenandoah National Park and along the highest point on Skyline Drive. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley and cool mountain breezes. Approximately 17 miles from Luray, VA. The hotel has a restaurant, gift shop, ranger led programs, horseback riding stables, and children's playground.
Gettysburg Hotel First-Class
1 Lincoln Square Gettysburg PA United States
Newly renovated and located in the heart of downtown Gettysburg, this historic hotel offers crisp, clean comfort and modern colonial style. This updated hotel is wrapped in history and accompanied by first-rate service. It's the perfect place to stay while you enjoy the experience of this great town and everything Gettysburg has to offer.
Marriott Philadelphia Old City Superior First-Class
One Dock Street Philadelphia PA United States
Situated in the heart of Philadelphia, Marriott Philadelphia Old City is a sophisticated and elegant hotel with colonial and contemporary influences. Convenient on-site amenities and comfortable guestrooms make for a wonderful stay in the City of Brotherly Love.
Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.