Heritage of America
Explore a trail of American heritage from the origins of democracy in Independence Hall, Philadelphia to the moving monuments of Washington D.C. Discover the serene ways of the Amish with a home-hosted dinner. Travel along the famous Skyline Drive and see amazing views of the Shenandoah Valley. Visit the presidential estates of Washington's Mount Vernon, Jefferson's Monticello and Buchanan's palatial Wheatland. Tour some of Colonial Williamsburg's 88 restored historic buildings. Explore the countless treasures of the Smithsonian Institution.
Learn about the traditions and history of the Amish with a locally guided tour. Stroll the grounds of historic Colonial Williamsburg and enjoy dinner at one of its famous taverns. Glimpse into the life of our nation's first president with a visit to his estate, Mount Vernon. From space exploration to the American presidency, see the many exhibits at the world-famous Smithsonian museums.
Highlights
New York City, Philadelphia, Amish Country, Gettysburg, Shenandoah Valley, Monticello, Colonial Williamsburg, Mount Vernon, Washington, D.C., Smithsonian Institution
Collette Experience
Details
- Tour Operator
- Collette Vacations
- Offer
- Offer valid through 12/31/2009
- Duration
- 9 Days
| Day | Destination | Description |
| Day 1 | New York | New York City, New York : Explore America's heritage, history and scenic horizons on this in-depth tour of the eastern United States. |
| Day 2 | Lancaster/Strasburg | New York City - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania - Lancaster/Strasburg : |
| Day 3 | Lancaster/Strasburg | Lancaster/Strasburg : Visit Wheatland*, the gracious Federalist home of James Buchanan, the 15th U.S. President, and the only president never to marry. Sample the true taste of Amish Country with stops at the Farmer's Market and the Kitchen Kettle Complex where small batches of jams, jellies and relishes are handcrafted daily. Next, a local guide introduces you to the fascinating history and traditions of the Amish people during a tour of their farmlands. As you learn more about their self-sufficiency and peaceful lifestyle you will understand how their "life apart" is an expression of their religious faith and dedication. |
| Day 4 | Shenandoah Valley | Lancaster/Strasburg - Gettysburg - Shenandoah Valley, Virginia : Journey to Gettysburg, site of the Union victory that marked a turning point in the Civil War. A guided tour of the site illuminates those three historic days in 1863 and the decisive battle that changed the course of American history forever. Travel to Shenandoah National Park via the famous Skyline Drive, along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. The highway itself is historic - it was completed by the Depression-era Civilian Conservation Corp in 1939. Scenic expanses of Shenandoah Valley wilderness extend in all directions. Tonight you'll overnight*** inside the park! |
| Day 5 | Williamsburg | Shenandoah Valley - Charlottesville - Williamsburg : |
| Day 6 | Williamsburg | Colonial Williamsburg : Begin the day by viewing "Story of a Patriot," a short film which introduces you to Colonial Williamsburg, one of the largest and best living history museums in the world which has been lovingly restored to its original glory. Costumed re-enactors populate the streets and buildings, bringing the customs and sentiments of 1770 to life. Tour Governor's Palace and Gardens before enjoying time to wander the cobblestone streets and explore some of the eighty-eight historic buildings on your own. Tonight you are at leisure to explore Williamsburg independently. |
| Day 7 | Washington, DC | Williamsburg - Washington, D.C. : This morning, visit Mount Vernon, the beloved home of the first U.S. president, George Washington, from the time of his marriage in 1759 until his death in 1799. You have time to wander the beautiful plantation grounds he adored and tour the home, filled with 18th century artifacts. Then, travel to his namesake city, Washington, D.C.. Explore the world-famous Smithsonian Institution's countless treasures such as the fabled Hope Diamond, 45.52-carats large and allegedly cursed; the actual Apollo 11 Command Module which carried Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin and Michael Collins to the moon; and even television's Archie and Edith Bunker's worn living room chairs! Smithsonian's new National Museum of the American Indian houses the largest and most extensive collection of Native American art and artifacts in the world. This evening you may choose to enjoy an optional excursion including dinner and a twilight tour of Washington's famous monuments and memorials including those dedicated to Jefferson, Lincoln and Iwo Jima. |
| Day 8 | Washington, DC | Washington, D.C. : |
| Day 9 | Tour ends | Washington, D.C. - Tour Ends : From the crafting of the documents of Democracy in Philadelphia, to the flawless reconstruction of Colonial Williamsburg, to the monuments and museums of Washington, D.C., your memories of this tour are sure to stay with you forever. |
- Dates/Pricing
- Lodging
Sheraton New York Eden Resort Inn and Suites Skyland Lodge Holiday Inn Charlottesville - University*** Area Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel Doubletree Crystal City
- Disclaimer
- Note
Tour prices are Land Only rates based on per person double occupancy. Please call your agent for triple or child occupancy rates. Taxes and fees are additional for tours that feature a cruise; port taxes are not included in the prices shown. Some dates may feature various changes in hotels, sightseeing and inclusions. Please confirm your specific itinerary at the time of booking.
