Washington
Come and enjoy America’s capital at arguably the best time of year to visit the city. There are no school groups visiting, and the normal bustle of the city slows down during the Labour Day weekend. This simply means that you will see a considerable number of sights and attractions in less time and appreciate your experience all the more.
While in Washington, you’ll enjoy a four hour city tour with a local guide with stops at many of the Memorials that Washington is known for and, of course, Capitol Hill. We will drive through neighbourhoods, past Embassy Row, the Washington National Cathedral, as well as the famous National Mall (encompasses 11 of the Smithsonian Museums and Galleries). This tour will give you great ideas of what you can explore in your free time.
In your spare time visit any of the 17 FREE Smithsonian Institutes like the National Air and Space Museum, the American Art Museum, and the National Museum of Natural History, just to name a few. Your Travac Tours Director will offer optional tours ($) to see the Washington Monuments by night, The Jefferson Library or a visit to the Arlington Cemetery.
Your home in Washington is downtown at the Hamilton Hotel. This hotel offers a truly unmatched location offering you easy walking access to the National Mall, the Smithsonian Museums and many of the city’s monuments. The hotel is also located close to a Metro Subway line giving you affordable travel to other destinations in the DC area.
Travac’s leisurely-paced 5-day getaway includes private transportation aboard a comfortable chartered coach, four nights’ accommodation, a city tour conducted by licensed Washington specialist and the services a Travac Tours Director. No other tour gives such exceptional value in a prime downtown location!
Tour Itinerary
Day 1
This morning you will depart Westgate Shopping Centre for Washington. Two washroom stops and one lunch stop will be made en route. At approximately 6:00pm you will arrive at your hotel in downtown Washington. You will have the evening free to enjoy dinner and relax.
Day 2
This morning we will meet our local guide and motorcoach for a half-day tour of the city. You will have a chance to see all the capital’s famous attractions, including Capitol Hill, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, FDR Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Embassy Row and Canadian Embassy. This tour will also familiarize you with the city and its neighbourhoods to make your stay more enjoyable. After the city tour, you will have time to explore and enjoy Washington on your own. Optional tours will be offered ($).
(B)
Day 3
Today is a free day. You will have the opportunity to visit the prestigious Smithsonian Institution. This collection of museums and galleries, scattered along the beautiful National Mall, is home to some of the world’s most intriguing exhibits and impressive collections. You can explore the American History Museum, the National Air and Space Museum, the National Portrait Gallery, and many more institutions along the one mile stretch of the Mall. Best of all, admission to the Smithsonian’s museums is free! (B)
At 9:30am we offer a free shuttle service to the Smithsonian-drop off at Smithsonian Castle. Please note that most museums open at 10:00am. We will offer a drop off and pick up to the Smithsonian Museums.
Optional tours will also be offered ($).
Day 4
Today you will have a free day to explore Washington on your own. You may wish to return to the Smithsonian, visit some of the various monuments or explore some of Washington’s neighborhoods. (B)
Again, at 9:30am we offer a free shuttle service to the Smithsonian-drop off at Smithsonian Castle. Please note that most museums open at 10:00am.
Optional tours will also be offered ($).
Day 5
This morning the bus departs Washington for Ottawa. A lunch stop and 2 washroom stops will be made enroute. Expect to arrive at the Westgate Shopping Centre at 7:00pm. (B)
Itinerary subject to change.