DC itinerary for middle school students

Washington DC Student Travel Itinerary | Educational Tour for Middle & High School Groups

Day 1

Early departure for Washington, D.C. (Pack a lunch from home!)

Arrive in the capital and check into your hotel. Then head into the city for dinner, followed by a stunning moonlight guided bus tour of the National Memorials. See the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Washington Monument, and more lit up at night.

Return to the hotel for the night. On-site security guards arrive at 10 PM.

Day 2

Start the day with a group photo at the U.S. Capitol. Then explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

After lunch, visit the powerful United States Holocaust Memorial Museum.

In the evening, enjoy dinner and a special activity such as a performance of Shear Madness or a sporting event (based on availability).

Return to your hotel for a good night’s rest.

Day 3

Begin with a guided U.S. Capitol tour, followed by time at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum on the National Mall.

Afterward, head to the Washington National Cathedral for a highlights tour of this iconic site—home to national ceremonies and rich American history.

Enjoy lunch and then visit the Smithsonian National Zoo, where you’ll explore exhibits like Elephant Trails, the Great Ape House, and the Asia Trail featuring giant pandas Mei Xiang and Tian Tian.

In the evening, freshen up and board a dinner dance cruise on the Potomac River! Enjoy music, food, and views of the city skyline by night.

Return to your hotel.

Day 4

After breakfast, check out and head to Arlington National Cemetery. Board private open-air trams for a guided tour with stops at the Robert F. Kennedy Gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Spend time walking the grounds before beginning the return journey home.

Meals along the way (lunch and dinner) are covered by stipends.