AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY BASH

Celebrating the 250th Anniversary/Birthday of USA

WEDNESDAY, JULY 1 - MONDAY, JULY 6, 2026

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE: Mount Vernon • Ford Orientation Center & Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center • Tour in Old Town Alexandria • Tall Ship Providence • Gadsby's Tavern Museum • The People's House: A White House Experience • Lafayette Park • National Archives • Capitol Visitor Center • The United States Capitol • United States Library of Congress • Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts • Declaration of Independence Reading Ceramony • 4th of July Parade • The Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial • The Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial • The Jefferson Memorial • Air Force Memorial • Live Performance by The Chanteymen • Live stream of the Star-Studded "A Capitol Fourth" Concert • Fireworks Spectacular Celebrating America's 250th Birthday! • DAR Museum • National Mall • Smithsonian Folklife Festival • The National World War II Memorial • Marine Corps Memorial (Iwo Jima Statue) • Arlington National Cemetery • Pentagon City Shopping Mall

EXCURSION INCLUDES:

Luxury motor coach transportation • Five nights’ accommodations • 11 Meals (5 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch, and 5 Dinners) • Baggage Handling • Scenic Excursions Tour Host

PRICE PER PERSON:

$3,450.00 - Double - $3,400.00

$3,250.00 - Triple - $3,200.00

$3,979.00 - Single - $3,929.00

EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT: Book with a $400 per person deposit before 3/31/25 and Save $50 per person

TRAVEL PROTECTION & TERMS AND CONDITIONS:

Travel protection is available to help protect your investment, your belongings and most importantly, you. The full plan details can be viewed under About / Travel Protection Plan. Rates are per person and based on the excursion price. To purchase travel protection click here.

Use Tour Operator Location #326296 - this is needed to link protection to the tour package. Complete basic information, review and choose what plan is best for you. After reviewing, you may choose the plan that suits your needs. 

Basic plan can be purchased at any time. Enhanced plan covers pre-existing conditions and must be purchased within 14 days of deposit of your tour.  Pricing subject to change based on insurance company premiums / costs.

Terms & Conditions: We encourage you to review our Terms & Conditions for important information regarding reservations, payments, cancellations, refunds, travel protection, and more. 

Click here to view Scenic Excursions' Terms & Conditions

TENTATIVE ITINERARY:

Day One – Wednesday, July 1, 2026: Arrie and check into the RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT ARLINGTON CAPITAL VIEW. Tonight, enjoy an INCLUDED DINNER at the PORTOFINO RESTAURANT. Family owned since 1970, this restaurant serves fine Northern Italian fare based on family recipes. 

Day Two – Thursday, July 2, 2026: Enjoy INCLUDED BREAKFAST at the hotel. Meet your escort/guide and depart for a full day of great events. 

Arrive at MOUNT VERNON, the estate of George Washington. Mount Vernon is both George Washington's home and final resting-place. This Southern plantation standing on the banks of the Potomac River details the life of the "Father of Our Country" while providing fascinating insights into colonial times. 

Visit the FORD ORIENTATION CENTER & DONALD W. REYNOLDS MUSEUM AND EDUCATION CENTER at Mount Vernon. The center contains sculptures, paintings, portraits, models, photos, films, documents, and diverse artifacts, with succinct descriptions and pithy quotations describing the life, times and accomplishments of our nation's first president. With 25 state-of-the-art galleries the museum displays many objects shown at Mount Vernon for the first time. 

Lunch on own in OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA. 

This afternoon, TOUR IN OLD TOWN ALEXANDRIA, a beautiful example of Georgian church architecture, dating from 1773. Silver plaques mark the pews of George Washington, who served as a vestryman, and Robert E. Lee. (Availability may be changed for church services and weddings). Later this afternoon, we will arrive at TALL SHIP PROVIDENCE for a DOCK SIDE HISTORY TOUR followed by a COCKTAIL RECEPTION. 1 Drink Included: Wine or Beer. Step back in time into the shoes of a sailor fighting the American Revolution. A sailor straight out of the 18th Century will assign you your role among the crew, show you the ropes, and give a short briefing on your duties and the mission assigned to Providence by  the higher ups of the Continental Navy. When you're ready, you will board Providence and present yourself to her esteemed captain - the legendary John Paul Jones, Father of the American Navy. From there, you will visit the quarterdeck, the main deck, the captain's cabin, and the hold to see where you'll be spending the next several months during your time at sea. You may even learn to load a connon!

Tour GADSBY'S TAVERN MUSEUM. For nearly a century Gadsby's Tavern was a center of political, social and cultural life in Alexandria. Nearly all of the founders of American Independence enjoyed the warm tavern hospitality. And met Martha Washington during dinner! En route back to our hotel we will:

• Drive by ROBERT E. LEE'S BOYHOOD HOME. The Potts-Fitzhugh House is a historic house. It served in the early 1800s as the home of Anne Hill Carter Lee and her family, included the eponymous Robert. 
• Drive by the GEORGE WASHINGTON MASONIC NATIONAL MEMORIAL - offering one of the finest views of Washington, plus an extraordinary collection of Colonial-era treasures. The Masonic Memorial is located on the site proposed for the national capitol building. 

Day Three – Friday, July 3, 2026: Today, breakfast is included at the hotel before we head out with our escourt/guide for a fascinating travel experience. 

Arrive at THE PEOPLE'S HOUSE: A WHITE HOUSE EXPERIENCE. The new cutting-edge educational experience located in Washington D.C., just one block from the White House. The educational museum tells the story of the Executive Mansion, its inhabitants and the people who have dedicated their careers to its functions. Group passes to our exhibit spaces do not include any additional programming or guided tours. Visitors should plan to spend between 60-90 minutes exploring the exhibits. 

Depart and walk LAFAYETTE PARK. Lafayette Square in Washington D.C., formerly known as "President's Park", is a historically significant public park locatd directly north of the White House. Named in honor of the Marquis de Lafayette, a key figure in the American Revolutionary War. Lafayette Square dates back to the early days of the American Republic and has witnessed significant events, including the construction of the White House, political gatherings, protests, and celebrations. 

• Enjoy the WHITE HOUSE for a photo opporunity!
• Stop at THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR I MEMORIAL. The National World War I Memorial is a national memorial commemorating the service rendered by members of the United States Armed Forces in World War I. The design, "A Soldier's Journey", shows the story of a soldier who leaves his family, see combat and the loss of comrades, and returns to his family after receiving medical care. 

Visit the NATIONAL ARCHIVES. The spacious rotunda of the National Archives contains the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. For the first time in modern history, all the pages of these documents are on display to the public. All the displays have been made accessible for viewing by individuals in wheelchairs and children. At night, the display is lowered 20 feet into a bomb-and fireproof vault. 

This afternoon, visit the CAPITOL VISITOR CENTER on CAPITOL HILL and proceed through to security. Enjoy LUNCH ON YOUR OWN at the CAPITOL VISITOR CENTER CAFETERIA offering a wide variety of menu options for a wide variety of appetites!

Visit THE UNITED STATES CAPITOL. The most recognized symbol of democratic government in the world, the U.S. Capitol has housed Congress since 1800 and is one of the most imposing public buildings in the world. The Capitol is where Congress meets to write the laws of our nation, and where presidents are inaugurated. Its ceilings are decorated with historic images, and its halls are lined with statuary and paitings representing great events and people in the nation's history. 

Visit the UNITED STATES LIBRARY OF CONGRESS. Explore. Discover. Be Inspired! Established as an act of Congress is 1800, The Library of Congress is the largest national library in the world with more than 100 million items in three buildings. The original Library of Congress Building (now called the Thomas Jefferson Building) is perhaps Washington's most richly ornamented building. DID YOU KNOW? The library has more than 650 miles of bookshelves, and more than 138 million objects in 470 different languages. If for any reason an nside tour is not available or the wait in line is extremely long our guide will conduct a tour outside the buildings. 

Depart for stops along the way en route to dinner.

• Stop at THE VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL. This privately funded memorial has drawn millions who have come to touch over 50,000 names, make pencil rubbings, and leave flowers, letters, flags, and personal mementos. 
• Stop at THE LINCOLN MEMORIAL. Overlooking the Reflecting Pool, this memorial was patterned on a classic Greek Temple. Inside, inscriptions from his Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address flank the 19-foot marble statue of our 16th President. 
• Stop at THE KOREAN WAR VETERANS MEMORIAL. The triangular field contains nineteen ground troopers, clad in foul weather ponchos, fully equipped for battle. Representing those who supported the ground troops are hundreds of faces etched on a polished granite wall. 

Enjoy an INCLUDED DINNER AT TONY & JOES SEAFOOD PLACE. Floor to ceiling windows & outdoor seating provide scenic river views as you dine on delicious seafood. 

This evening, we walk through THE KENNEDY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS. Explore the Hall of Flags, see the larger-than-life bronze bust of Kennedy himself, see the incredible view of the city from the rooftop terrace. Experience the Art & Ideals: John F. Kennedy Exhibit. 

Day Four – Saturday, July 4, 2026: Breakfast is again included at the hotel. This morning, we depart with our escort/guide. (No reserved seating. Folding chairs are included) The DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE READING CEREMONY BEGINS ON the steps of National Archives, including:

• Greetings by the MASTER OF CEREMONIES
• Presentation of Colors by the CONTINENTAL COLOR GUARD
• Performance of the NATIONAL ANTHEM
• Performance by the FIFE AND DRUM CORPS
• Dramatic reading of the Declaration of Independence by reenactors portraying historical characters, including Thomas Jefferson, John Adams, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Abigail Adams, John Dunlap, John Hancock, and Ned Hector
• Performance of "America the Beautiful"

Watch the 4th of July Parade! Marching bands, fife and drum corps, floats, military units, giant balloons, equestrian, drill teams and more celebrate Independence Day in this patriotic, flag-waving, red, white and blue celebration of America's Birthday! BOX LUNCHES will be delivered. Note: there is not any designated seating. Folding chairs are included. After the parade ends we will depart. 

• Stop at THE MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. NATIONAL MEMORIAL. The long-awaited memorial utilizes landscape elements to powerfully convey three fundamental and recurring themes of Dr. King's life: justice, democracy and hope. The memorial is a quiet and receptive space, yet at the same time, powerful and emotionally evocative, reflecting the spirity of the message Dr. King delivered and the role he played in society. The King Memorial is intended to be personally transformative for visitors, building a sense of commitment to the promise of positive change and active citizenship.
• Stop at THE FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT MEMORIAL. This memorial to FDR combines sculpture, water and natural landscape to forge a dramatic setting for recounting the events and terms of office of the nation's 32nd President. The FDR is unique among the memorials of Washington, DC. Its shade trees, waterfalls, statuary and quiet alcoves create the feeling of a secluded garden rather than an imposing structure. The memorial is divided into four outdoor galleries, or rooms, one for each of FDR's terms in office. Water cascades and quiet pools are present throughout. 
• Stop at THE JEFFERSON MEMORIAL. The 19-foot statue of the third president stands beneath a rotunda inscribed with passages from the Declaration of Independence and Jefferson's other famous writings. Looking from the memorial across the Tidal Basin provides an unforgettable view of the city. 
• Stop at the AIR FORCE MEMORIAL. The redesigned Memorial is both BOLD and graceful and truly representational of the Air Force. Central to the design are three stainless steel spires which soar skyward. The highest of the spires will ascent 270' above the 3-acre elevated promontory site. Other key elements of the Memorial include a bronze Honor Guard, inscription walls, and an open glass Chamber of Contemplation, all landscaped to create a memorial park and parade ground overlooking the nation's capital. 

After we return to the hotel to freshen up, we will depart again to arrive at JULAS ON THE POTOMAC. Join us for a spirited night of entertainment and celebration! Kick off the evening with a live performance by THE CHANTEYMEN, a talented ensemble known for their rich harmonies and lively sea shanties that will transport you stright to America's maritime past. As you settle in, enjoy a delicious selection of GOURMENT HORS D'OEUVRES,  thoughtfully curated to complement the evening's festive vibe. Each guest will also receive a SIGNATURE PATRIOTIC COCKTAIL and 1 DRINK TICKET. Dress code: Smart Casual to Dress with suggested Red, White, and Blue color scheme. 

Dinner is served. As night falls, the event continues with an exclusive LIVE STREAM OF THE STAR-STUDDED "A CAPITOL FOURTH" concert, broadcast directly from the iconic Capitol Lawn. Watch legendary performers and national treasures take the stage on multiple large screens, ensuring you don't miss a moment of this beloved Independence Day tradition. Then, prepare to be dazzled as the sky lights up with a BREATHTAKING FIREWORKS SPECTACULAR CELEBRATING AMERICA'S 250TH BIRTHDAY! While the full show will be streamed for all to enjoy, guests may also catch glimpses of the fireworks live from outdoor viewing decks overlooking the Potomac River and surrounding areas - though visibility may vary and is not guaranteed. It's an evening filled with music, flavor, and patriotic spirit - a perfect way to celebrate this historic milestone together!

Day Five – Sunday, July 5, 2026: Enjoy an include breakfast at the hotel prior to departing for the DAR MUSEUM. The DAR Museum is Washington, D.C., is a decorative arts museu focused on collecting and interpreting objects and social history from pre-industrial American homes, featuring 31 period rooms, changing exhibits, and collection of decorative arts like furniture, glass, ceramics, textiles and household items. 

Continue onto the NATIONAL MALL for this SMITHSONIAN FOLKLIFE FESTIVAL, established in 1967, honors contemporary living cultural traditions and celebrates those who practice and sustain them. Produced annually by the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage, the Festival has featured participants from all fifty states and more than a hundred countries.

• The 2026 Folklife Festival Theme will be Our Nation's 250th!
• The Festival takes place every summer on the National Mall, with free performances, workshops, demonstrations, and other activities. It is an educational, research-based presentation that features master artisans and other tradition bearers. We invite visitors to sing and dance along, try crafts and games, learn traditional recipes, ask questions and take part in this unique cultural exchange. 
• Visit YOUR CHOICE of the SMITHSONIAN INSTITUTION'S MUSEUMS on the NATIONAL MALL, including but not limited to the following. No Reservations Included
  • National Museum of African American History and Culture*
  • National Museum of American History and Culture
  • National Air & Space Museum*
  • National Museum of Natural History 
  • The National Museum of the American Indian
  • The National Gallery of Art
  • Hirshhom Museum and Sculpture Garden
  • This National Portrait Gallery
  • The National Museum of African Art

*Advanced Tickets are required and are not included Individuals are responsible for obtaining their own tickets online. 

Enjoy LUNCH ON YOUR OWN while exploring the museums. After lunch we will board our motorcoach and depart for dinner. On our drive we will:

• Stop at THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL. This memorial honors the 16 million who served in the armed forces of the U.S. during World War II, the more than 400,000 who died, and the millions who supported the war effort from home. Symbolic of the defining event of the 20the Century, the memorial is a monument to the spirit, sacrifice, and commitment of the American people to the common defense of the nation and to the broader causes of peace and freedom from tyranny throughout the world. 
• MARINE CORPS MEMORIAL (IWO JIMA STATUE). One of the largest bronze statues ever cast depicts the American Flag being raised on Mount Suribachi during World War II and commemorates all Marines who have died in battle since 1775.

Enjoy an INCLUDED DINNER AT THE POINT. Perfectly situated at the confluence of the Potomac Anacostia Rivers, the contemporary design with live green walls, tranquil open-air patio and fire pits, compliment the picturesque and panoramic views. Return to the hotel following dinner. 

Day Six – Monday, July 6, 2026: Enjoy an INCLUDED BREAKFAST at the hotel before CHECKING OUT. 

Visit ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETARY. No land in America is more sacred than this square mile. It is America's shrine to valor and sacrifice. This is the final resting place for President John F. Kennedy, Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, Robert F. Kennedy, Edward Moore (Ted) Kennedy, Audie Murphy, prizefighter Joe Louis, and thousands of soldiers from every major U.S. war. The Cemetery is the former plantation and home of Civil War General Robert E. Lee. Arlington House, Space Shuttle Challenger Astronauts' Memorial, and Monuments to nearly every major sacrifice that affected our country are located within these 624+ acres. The Tomb of the Unknowns speaks of a nation's debt to the many whose ultimate sacrifice helped make a nation free. Arlington averages 27 to 30 funerals, including interments and inurments, each weekday, and six to eight services on Saturday. The crews, service members, and groundskeepers follow an elaborate choreography to ensure each funeral feels like it is the only one taking place. 

• TRAM TICKETS ARE INCLUDED FOR YOUR VISIT.
• THERE ARE FOUR STOPS: President John F. Kennedy's gravesite, U.S. Army General John J. Pershing's gravesite, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Memorial Amphitheater, and the Ord & Weitzel walking gate to see the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima).
• CHANGING OF THE GUARD: The guard is changed every hour on the hour October 1 to March 31 in an elaborate ritual. From April 1 through September 30, another change is added on the half hour. Plan to be at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier 10 minutes prior to the ceremony in order to be seated on the steps.

After we depart we will arrive at the PENTAGON CITY SHOPPING MALL for LUNCH ON YOUR OWN.  A food court with options for all. SET FORTH FOR HOME AFTER THIS AMAZING, MOST PATRIOTIC AMERICA'S BIRTHDAY BASH - 250! We will make a comfort and dinner stop en route home with an evening arrival home.