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

Tour Begins: 5:00 PM, New York Marriott Downtown. 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.

After breakfast, set out with an expert historian whose engaging storytelling brings Revolutionary-era New York to life amid modern Manhattan. Explore Lower Manhattan – where street names like Wall Street, Pearl Street, and Stone Street reflect early American origins – and begin at historic sites such as Trinity Church and Federal Hall for a walking tour that reveals the city's early history and its role in the founding of the nation. Trace unforgettable moments in the American story, from the Sons of Liberty and their resistance to British taxation to Alexander Hamilton's formative years as a courageous young patriot. Hear about George Washington's emotional farewell to his troops, his triumphant return to New York, and his inauguration on Wall Street, as well as the development of Hamilton's visionary financial system that helped shape the nation's economy. Your afternoon is free to explore the many sights, landmarks, and boroughs of this iconic city.

As you leave New York this morning, enjoy views of its iconic skyline and the Statue of Liberty. Just over the New Jersey border, stop for a guided tour of Washington Crossing Historic Site to see the historical park where George Washington crossed the Delaware River. Learn about this dangerous voyage, which took place on Christmas 1776 and is noted as one of Washington's greatest victories. Pause for lunch at the Washington Crossing Inn before continuing to Valley Forge National Historical Park. Considered the birthplace of the American Army, it's where the Continental Army took refuge one pivotal winter. Enjoy a guided tour before continuing on to Philadelphia, where you'll reach your hotel adjacent to charming Rittenhouse Square.

The Museum of the American Revolution, a longtime partner of filmmaker Ken Burns, opens early this morning exclusively for Tauck – meaning no crowds as you explore in depth. Enjoy a guided visit with museum staff who provide expert insights – an insider's view – into the stories behind the museum's historic artifacts, including George Washington's original sleeping and office tent from the Revolutionary War. Following your museum visit, continue to Independence Hall, operated by the National Park Service and part of Independence National Historical Park, where a park ranger will share insights during your tour. You'll also visit the Liberty Bell at the Liberty Bell Center – the enduring symbol of American freedom that was rung to mark important public announcements in its time. Next, set out on a walking tour of historic Philadelphia to learn more about the conversations and decisions that unfolded in these influential spaces before enjoying free time on your own. 

Travel through rolling Pennsylvania farmland to Gettysburg for a visit to the Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center, home to the Gettysburg Museum and Cyclorama, a major highlight featuring the 1884 panoramic painting by French artist Paul Philippoteaux. Measuring nearly 400 feet around and over 40 feet high, this sweeping depiction of Pickett's Charge creates an unforgettable, immersive experience as part of your introduction to the Battle of Gettysburg. A drive with a licensed Gettysburg Battlefield Guide takes you through some of the hallowed ground, the battlefields, focusing on the stories of Pickett's Charge and Little Round Top. Your evening is free to spend as you please. 

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.

Begin your day in Charlottesville with a visit to Thomas Jefferson's beloved Monticello, the hilltop house he designed, followed by 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 tasting of Jefferson Vineyards wines, produced on land once envisioned by Thomas Jefferson for Virginia's first vineyards. Your evening is free.

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.

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.

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.

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.