Washington DC & Philadelphia Guided Day Trip from New York

Washington DC: the Lincoln Memorial and the White House

The Washington DC leg of the trip covers the most famous sights of the capital. You see the Lincoln Memorial, dedicated in 1922, with its seated marble statue of Abraham Lincoln facing the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument. The National Mall around it is lined with memorials and museums.

The tour also passes the White House, the residence of every US president since 1800, where you stop for photographs of the building from outside. If you have been wondering whether a New York to Washington and Philadelphia day trip is realistic, this route is designed for it: the coach handles the driving, and the guide focuses on the highlights.

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery, on the hills across the river from the capital, has been a national burial ground since 1864. Its rows of white headstones are one of the most moving sights of the trip, and the cemetery includes the Kennedy gravesite with its eternal flame.

Your guide explains the history of the cemetery and its ceremonies. Allow time for a quiet walk, and dress respectfully, since it is a place of remembrance. The visit is short, so it works as a highlight in a day that also includes Philadelphia.

Philadelphia: the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall

Philadelphia was the first capital of the United States and the city where the Declaration of Independence was adopted in 1776 and the Constitution drafted in 1787. Independence Hall, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the Liberty Bell, with its famous crack, are the centre of this history and the main reason travellers ask for a Philadelphia day trip from New York.

Your guide leads you through the historic district, with time for photos and a short visit around the Liberty Bell area. Other stops may include the old streets and the murals of the city, though the route and the time in each place can vary.

A full day: the journey, the guide and your options

The trip leaves Manhattan very early and returns late. It is a full day of about 15 hours, so bring water, snacks and a charger, and wear comfortable shoes. Food and drinks are not included, and there is time for meals along the way.

The default option includes an audio guide activated through the tour's mobile app, and the coach option does not. Both use the same guided route and the same licensed bilingual guide in English and Spanish. Compare the two in the booking panel, and check the departure time in your voucher before the day.