Journey through American history in Washington D.C. Walk the National Mall, where the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument stand as symbols of freedom and testaments to the nation’s strength. Pay tribute to fallen heroes at Arlington National Cemetery and step inside the U.S. Capitol, the heart of American democracy. Visit George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon and get a glimpse into the life of a founding father.
- Take a guided tour of Washington, D.C. and the National Mall
- Experience Arlington National Cemetery
- Enjoy a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building
- Visit George Washington’s Mount Vernon
- Free day to explore Washington, D.C. and the Smithsonian Museums
Excellent mobility required.
DAY 1: OHIO
Head east to central Ohio for dinner and an overnight stay. D
DAY 2: WASHINGTON, D.C.
Arrive in Washington D.C., where an expert guide joins the group on the coach for an engaging tour of the Nation’s Capital. After taking in the city’s iconic sights, enjoy a delicious dinner before checking into the centrally located Hyatt Place, an ideal base for exploring the heart of the city during your comfortable four-night stay. Note: Fly tour arrives in Washington D.C. today. B, D
DAY 3: ARLINGTON, U.S. CAPITOL, FORD’S THEATRE
Experience the moving Arlington Cemetery, where you’ll visit the final resting places of John F. Kennedy and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. On a guided tour, gain exclusive access behind the scenes at the U.S. Capitol, the iconic symbol of American democracy and the heart of Congress. Then, step into history at the historic Ford’s Theatre, where you’ll be transported back to April 14, 1865 to uncover the dramatic events of that day, which changed the course of our nation forever. B, L
DAY 4: MOUNT VERNON
Step back in time at Mount Vernon, the home of George Washington. Built by his father, Augustine Washington, in 1734, the estate became Washington’s home in 1754, marking the beginning of his storied legacy. Explore the beautifully restored mansion, wander through lush gardens, and discover fascinating exhibits, including the final resting place of the Washingtons. Take in the peaceful views of the Potomac River, making this visit a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. B, L
DAY 5: WASHINGTON D. C. “YOUR
Today grants you the freedom to craft your own perfect day in Washington, D.C. Take the opportunity to visit the National Archives, home to priceless documents such as the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the vast knowledge and captivating exhibits of your preferred Smithsonian Museum. Whatever you choose, your Tour Director is available to help you plan a memorable day tailored to your interests. B
DAY 6: COLUMBUS, OH
It’s time to begin our journey home. Travel to Ohio for dinner and an overnight stay. Note: Fly tour departs from D.C. B, D
DAY 7: RETURN HOME B
ACCOMMODATIONS:
Night 1: Hampton Inn, Zanesville, OH
Nights 2-5: Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall, Washington, DC
Night 6: Drury Inn, Columbus, OH (or similar)
Departure Cities:
- St. Louis
Depart: March 29, 2027
Return: April 4, 2027
Price Per Person:
- DB $2,349
- TP/QD $2,049
- SG $3,169
Mobility Note
This tour requires heavy amounts walking and standing at monuments, museums and historic sites. Arlington National Cemetery includes hills and walking distances that require moderate physical exertion, while Mount Vernon has uneven terrain and steep inclines in portions of the historic area.
Average Temps
Daytime: 58–68°F
Overnight: 40–50°F
Packing Tips
Pack comfortable walking shoes, removable layers, a light-to-medium jacket and a compact raincoat or umbrella. Early mornings may be chilly, while afternoons can feel mild or warm. A small day bag is helpful, but avoid carrying unnecessary items on the Capitol tour because all belongings must pass through security screening.
Security Note
Visitors pass through security at Arlington National Cemetery and the U.S. Capitol. Bags and personal items are inspected, and the Capitol maintains a detailed list of prohibited items. Final requirements should be reviewed before departure because security policies may change.
Hotel Note
The Hyatt Place Washington DC/National Mall provides a four-night, unpack-once stay near many of the capital’s major attractions. Its location also places guests near the L’Enfant Plaza Metro station, making it easier to explore independently during the free day.
Free Time Options
The Smithsonian museums are free to enter, allowing guests to choose one or several museums according to their interests. Popular choices include the National Museum of American History, National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History and National Museum of African American History and Culture. Timed-entry reservations may be required at select museums.
Guests planning to visit the National Archives should allow time for security and possible lines. Morning visits are often preferable for viewing the nation’s founding documents before the building becomes busier.
Notes on Highlights
Washington’s monuments appear relatively close together from a distance, but the National Mall covers a large area. Sunrise’s guided sightseeing and motorcoach transportation allow guests to see more of the capital without arranging transportation between widely spaced landmarks.
The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier follows a precise ceremony built around the number 21, reflecting the military’s highest symbolic honor, the 21-gun salute.
Mount Vernon’s mansion appears to be made of stone, but it is actually constructed of wood. The exterior boards were beveled and coated with paint mixed with sand to imitate the appearance of cut stone.
The Capitol Visitor Center is located almost entirely underground. Its design preserves the historic view of the Capitol while providing exhibition galleries, theaters and visitor facilities beneath the East Front plaza.
Ford’s Theatre remains both a historic site and an active working theater. Guests visit the place where Abraham Lincoln was shot while also learning how the building was preserved and returned to theatrical use.
The tour dates fall near Washington’s traditional cherry blossom season. Peak bloom cannot be guaranteed, but flowering trees, tulips and other spring plantings may add seasonal color throughout the city.
Other General Information
Tour Communications: You will receive three key communications leading up to your tour:
- Get Ready: Your email confirmation and initial tour information, sent after you register.
- Get Set: An email with additional tour details, sent approximately two months before departure.
- Go: Your final trip documents, mailed via USPS approximately three to four weeks before departure. This packet will include your daily itinerary, luggage tags, and final departure information.
Travel Protection: Travel Protection is optional but highly recommended and may be purchased until the day before departure. Sunrise Tours offers plans through battleface. Additional information will be included with your Get Ready email and can also be found HERE.
Inclusions: Unless otherwise noted, your Sunrise Tour includes:
- A professional Sunrise Tour Director
- Meals as indicated in the itinerary
- Local step-on guides, including gratuities
- International tour guide gratuities when specified for the individual tour
- Deluxe motorcoach transportation with an onboard restroom
- Admission to activities and events as indicated
- Airfare from designated airports
- Transportation to and from designated airports from our convenient local pickup points*
- Luggage handling at hotels when available
Gratuities: We believe tipping is a personal and discretionary interaction between our guests and staff. A typical gratuity for your Sunrise Tour Director and motorcoach driver is $6 to $10 per person, per day of the tour. Sunrise Shuttle drivers also appreciate gratuities for excellent service, with a suggested amount of $5 per person. Our staff will not solicit gratuities or distribute gratuity envelopes.
Refreshments: We are happy to provide refreshments on most motorcoach travel days. We also recommend bringing a refillable water bottle to help you stay hydrated throughout your tour.
Pickup Points: If fewer than four travelers request a particular pickup point, we may ask those guests to select another available pickup location. Travelers are also welcome to join a tour from a city that is not listed as a departure point. Please contact our friendly reservations team to discuss available arrangements. For departure cities not listed, airfare is typically $100 more than the published fare for domestic tours and $200 more for international tours.
TSA PreCheck and Airline Rewards Numbers: TSA PreCheck, Known Traveler Numbers, and airline rewards numbers must be provided to our reservations team at least 60 days before departure. Numbers received after this deadline may not be applied to your reservation.
Airline Seating: Preferred seating may not be available with group airfare. In some cases, seats are not assigned until travelers arrive at the airport. Your tour fare includes an economy-class seat but does not include advance seat selection. Seat upgrades may be available for an additional cost.
Motorcoach Capacity and Seating: To provide one of the most comfortable motorcoach experiences in the industry, Sunrise Tours generally limits motorcoaches to 80% capacity. This allows for a maximum of 44 passengers on a motorcoach designed to accommodate 55. Sunrise Tours reserves the right to amend this practice. Your Tour Director will rotate motorcoach seating each day of the tour. Payment of a single-occupancy fare does not guarantee two motorcoach seats, and you may be seated beside another friendly Sunrise Tours guest.
Terms and Conditions
Please refer to our policies HERE for more information on our terms and conditions.