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School Trips to Washington

School trips to Washington allow your students an amazing opportunity to explore the breathtaking capital city of the U.S. and learn about the intriguing past of American history. Our team of travel experts have unparalleled knowledge of Washington D.C and will take the stress out of planning your educational trip to Washington. We work closely with you to create a trip itinerary that will engage and excite your secondary students.

A school trip to Washington offers students the chance to learn about the political establishment of the United States, as it is the home to the White House, the official residence of the President.

The city's political significance dominates the Washington landscape, as it's home to all three branches of the U.S government; the Executive (President and staff), Legislative (Senate and House Representatives) and Judicial (Supreme Court and Lower Courts) making Washington D.C the ideal school trip destination for History and Politics students.

Washington DC is rich in history and political interest. Your secondary students can learn about Native Americans, the nation's first president, George Washington, the Civil War and The Pentagon. There are many monuments to help tell the story such as Lincoln, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Martin Luther King as well as veterans of the Korean and Vietnam Wars. 

Memorials and monuments of past presidents can be visited, and why not indulge in a tour of Congress in the Capitol Building? Examine more about what this wonderful city has to offer on a guided tour or walk.

We’ve provided an example itinerary for you to explore all the different options available during your school trip to Washington. We’ll always try to accommodate your requirements and ensure your school trip is one to savour!

School trip to Washington highlights…

Booking a school trip to Washington DC also allows your secondary students to expand their knowledge on everything from fine art to major points in history. School groups who have previously booked a Washington school trip have revelled in the amazing sights and experiences. Explore our Washington trip highlights below:

  • The National Museum of American History
  • Washington DC Guided Sightseeing Tour
  • The Smithsonian Institution Museums
  • The White House Visitor Centre

Choose EST for your school trip to Washington 

We offer history and politics school trips to Washington, so your students can gain the most from their studies during their visit. 

At EST, we’re passionate about building school trips that extract educational value, inspire learning, and create magical memories. We can help build an itinerary to suit your students with our easy school trip planning packages.

For the student trip of a lifetime to the wonderful city of Washington, contact EST today to discover how we can help you to plan the school trip of your student’s dreams!

Top visits on school trips to Washington DC

The National Museum of American History

 

Any school trips to Washington DC must incorporate a visit to the National Museum of American History. Situated at the National Mall, the museum offers a range of historical exhibitions that change seasonally. Let your students immerse themselves in the history of American democracy or marvel at the George Washington sculpture. Whatever different activities you choose to explore during your visit, you can rest assured your students will leave feeling inspired!

Washington DC Guided Sightseeing Tour

We can arrange for a Washington DC guided sightseeing tour by one of the city’s most reputable tour providers, allowing you and your students the chance to see and learn about Washington’s amazing history. Explore the monuments and memorials synonymous with Washington’s rich political background, or opt for a moonlit tour of the National Mall to discover the premium sites lit up in all their glory at night. 

The Smithsonian Institution Museums

The Smithsonian Institution Museums are home to a collection of 17 museums and galleries, including The National Zoo, American Art Museum, National Portrait Gallery, American Indian Museum and Anacostia Community Museum. The educational value provided by the stunning range of different museums and galleries on show ensures your students will learn everything about American culture and history. 

The White House Visitor Centre

No school trip to Washington DC is complete without paying a visit to the world-famous White House, home of the President of the United States. The seat of power in arguably the most powerful country in the world cannot fail to inspire the inquisitive side of your students – a truly amazing destination for school trips to Washington DC or educational tours.

The Pentagon

The Pentagon is a famous five-sided building in Arlington, Virginia, near Washington. It's the headquarters of the U.S. Department of Defense and serves as the command centre for the military. While some areas are restricted for security reasons, guided tours are available for students to learn about its history and significance in American defence.

National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is an exciting destination for school trips to Washington DC. It showcases the history of aviation and space exploration with iconic aircraft and interactive exhibits. Students can explore the wonders of flight and space travel, sparking their curiosity and imagination.

Mount Vernon and Monticello

Mount Vernon and Monticello are historic sites, offering immersive experiences for school trips to Washington DC. Mount Vernon was George Washington's home, showcasing his life and leadership. Monticello, Thomas Jefferson's estate, highlights his intellect and contributions to American history. Both sites provide engaging opportunities for students to learn about these founding fathers and their legacies.

Washington Monument

The Washington Monument, towering over the National Mall is a must-visit destination for school trips. This iconic obelisk stands as a tribute to George Washington, the first President of the United States. Students can marvel at its grandeur and learn about its significance in American history and culture.

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is a poignant destination for school trips to Washington DC. It's a solemn resting place for American soldiers, including those who sacrificed their lives for their country. Students can pay their respects, witness military ceremonies, and learn about the cemetery's rich history and significance in honouring our nation's heroes.

Popular Washington Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

Check in at UK airport for flight to Washington.

Afternoon

Arrive and transfer to your accommodation.

Evening

Evening meal followed by a Guided Walking Tour of Washington.

 

Day 2

Morning

Guided Tour of US Capitol.

Afternoon

Visit to Supreme Court.

Evening

Evening meal in a local restaurant. 

 

Day 3

Morning

Visit to National Archives.

Afternoon

Visit to the White House Visitors Centre.

Evening

Evening meal in a local restaurant and visit to Washington Memorial.

 

Day 4

Morning

Guided Tour of the Pentagon.

Afternoon

Self-guided Tour of Newseum.

Evening

Transfer to airport, overnight flight back to the UK.

 

Day 5

Morning

Arive UK airport and onward travel to school.

 

Top Tips from Our Travel Experts

"With a twin centre visit I would suggest New York first then Washington as the quieter streets of DC are welcomed after the hustle and bustle of NYC. There is so much to see and do in Washington and most of it is free! The museums and sites are all walkable pretty much and you can easily fill a couple of days itinerary with them. The streets are straight forward to navigate and crowds nothing like NYC."

What We Can Offer You

Knowledge and Experience

  • We continually invest in our teams product and destination knowledge to be able to offer you the best advice and support when planning your tour.
  • We create itineraries are bespoke and individual to your needs
  • FREE teacher inspection visits so you can feel completely secure when leading your group
  • We're only a phone call away 24/7 whilst you are on tour

Safety and Assurance

  • We are assured and founder members of the School Travel Forum.
  • Our Learning Outside the Classroom accreditation ensures we have your safety at the heart of everything we do and ensures the highest possible safety standards.
  • Externally verified Safety Management System
  • Risk assessment guidance and advice

Financial Security

  • Our ABTA membership ensures that we offer you and your parents the best financial protection available. 
  • All flights sold in our packages are covered under our ATOL licence providing further peace of mind
  • Committed to sustainable and responsible educational travel. Working to offset carbon emissions, reduce deforestation and provide wildlife habitats.

Washington Gallery

 

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Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

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Washington

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US Capitol

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Washington Monument

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Washington

<p>Franklin Roosevelt Memorial</p>

Franklin Roosevelt Memorial

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Washington

<p>Lincoln Memorial</p>

Lincoln Memorial

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Franklin Roosevelt Memorial 

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White House

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Washington

<p>Lincoln Memorial</p>

Lincoln Memorial

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Washington

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US Capitol

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Washington Monument

<p>Franklin Roosevelt Memorial</p>

Franklin Roosevelt Memorial

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White House

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Washington

<p>Lincoln Monument</p>

Lincoln Monument

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White House

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Washington

<p>US Capitol</p>

US Capitol

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Washington

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Washington Monument

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Newseum

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White House

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US Capitol