Heritage of America (9 Days)

America was built by great men, forged by conflict and defined, over hundreds of years, by an unflagging spirit and boundless ingenuity. To celebrate our nation's history and to commemorate the 140th Anniversary of The Civil War, join A&E Television Networks Travel for the Heritage of America Tour, which, over 9 days, will travel from New York City to Washington DC, the seat of our government. In between, highlights include visits to the National Civil War Museum in Harrisburg, PA, where the story of our nation's greatest tragedy comes to life; the battlefields of Gettysburg and Manassas; a journey back in time to Colonial Williamsburg; Mt. Vernon, the home of George Washington and the world-famous Smithsonian museums. Day by Day ItineraryDay 1 New York Explore the cornerstones of American Democracy on this unique tour, beginning in New York City. Day 2 Philadelphia New York City - Philadelphia - Lancaster - Strasburg:Travel to Philadelphia where you will embark on a tour of the "Most Historic Square Mile in America." Highlights include the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall and Betsy Ross' home. A stop is made at the Visitors Center to view the movie "Independence" before departing for the Amish Country of Lancaster. Day 3 Lancaster/ Strasburg Begin the day with a visit to Wheatland, the palatial home of James Buchanan, and enjoy a glimpse into the life of our 15th President. Later, visit the Farmer's Market and Kitchen Kettle Complex before a local guide takes you on a tour of the Amish farmlands where you will learn about the fascinating history and traditions of the Amish people. A visit to the home of an Amish family, for an Amish feast, will surely delight you. (B, D) Day 4 Lancaster - Strasburg - Gettysburg - Shenandoah Valley Journey to the hallowed ground at Gettysburg for an interesting tour of this historic battlefield, the site of the deciding conflict of the Civil War. Later, behold amazing views of the Shenandoah Valley while traveling along the famous Skyline Drive. (B, D) Day 5 Shenandoah Valley - Charlottesville - Williamsburg Today you visit Monticello, the beautiful home of Thomas Jefferson. Jefferson was not only the author of the Declaration of Independence and the 3rd President of the United States, but he was also an accomplished inventor. This afternoon you arrive in the historic town of Williamsburg. Tonight, choose to explore the area on your own or partake in an optional dinner followed by a performance at the Music Theatre of Williamsburg. (B) Day 6 Williamsburg Learn about the history of Colonial Williamsburg by viewing the movie, "Story of a Patriot," and by touring the fabulous Governor's Palace and Gardens. Discover this amazing land on your own and tour some of the 88 restored historic buildings. In each building a guide in period costume explains the Colonists' way of life. Tonight's dinner in Colonial Williamsburg is at one of the famous taverns specializing in colonial fare. (B, D) Day 7 Washington D.C. This morning visit the beloved home of the 1st president of the United States, General George Washington, where you have time to explore his estate, Mount Vernon, and the beautiful plantation grounds that he adored. Later, arrive in Washington D.C. and the world-famous Smithsonian Institution. The fabled Hope Diamond, the gowns of the First Ladies and the Apollo rocket are just a few of the exhibits you may choose to see as well as the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. Tonight 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. (B) Day 8 Washington D.C. Your day begins with a visit to Arlington National Cemetery where you will view the Tomb of the Unknowns, and the Kennedy gravesites.H Your day continues with a trip to the White House Visitor’s Center where you will gain insight into the many transitions it has undergone. Continuing on your journey through monuments and museums, you visit the Capitol and step inside its impressive rotunda. A memorable stop brings you to Ford's Theatre*, site of President Lincoln’s assassination. Drive along Embassy Row, concluding your tour at the moving World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Memorial. (B, D) Day 9 Washington D.C. Today you bid farewell to your fellow travelers as you depart for home. (B)