Philadelphia Freedom

The birth of American independence comes to life in a meaningful way on this exciting trip to Philadelphia. Visit the actual sites where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed, and tour the Liberty Bell Pavilion, Betsy Ross House, and many other historic buildings in Independence National Historic Park. Also, spend time at the fascinating interactive Franklin Institute Science Museum, the National Constitution Museum, and General George Washington’s Valley Forge.

Day 1: Arrive in Philadelphia

Morning departure from gateway city to Philadelphia. Meet your Program Director and depart for the FRANKLIN INSTITUTE SCIENCE MUSEUM to discover science and technology at this interactive museum that is as clever as its namesake. This evening, the story of the American Revolution is told during the interactive sound and light walking tour LIGHTS OF LIBERTY (select days during April-Sept.)

Day 2: Philadelphia

Walk through INDEPENDENCE HALL where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were signed. Tour the Liberty Bell Pavilion and the Betsy Ross House on your WALKING TOUR of Independence National Historic Park. See Jacob Graff House, Elfreth’s Alley, Christ Church, Franklin Court and Carpenter’s Hall. Engage in the freedoms and struggles of our great nation at the NATIONAL CONSTITUTION MUSEUM. Learn about the United States Constitution, vote for your all-time favorite President, and take the Presidential Oath-of- Office at America’s most interactive history museum.

Day 3: Depart for home

Visit VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK commemorating the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation. See the camp where Washington and his troops endured the harsh winter of 1777–78 as you learn about the ability of citizens and their leaders to pull together and overcome adversity during extraordinary times.

Extension—Day 3: Gettysburg and Lancaster

Depart this morning for GETTYSBURG NATIONAL MILITARY PARK, the most visited Civil War battlefield in America and a touchstone of the symbolic struggle that decided the future of our nation as one “dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.” Spend some time exploring the newly renovated museum and cyclorama before hearing your local guide vividly recount the Battle of 1863 as you drive through the park. Drive to Lancaster for a visit to the AMISH FARM AND HOUSE. Learn about the faith, culture and traditional way of life that excludes the use of modern conveniences such as electricity and telephones before enjoying a traditional Amish dinner.

Extension—Day 4: Depart for home

Visit VALLEY FORGE NATIONAL HISTORICAL PARK commemorating the sacrifices and perseverance of the Revolutionary War generation. See the camp where Washington and his troops endured the harsh winter of 1777–78 as you learn about the ability of citizens and their leaders to pull together and overcome adversity during extraordinary times.