Witness where American democracy was born. Stand in the rooms of the first Congressional Congress, bicycle on the National Mall and visit historical landmarks in Philadelphia, Washington, D.C. and the living museum of Williamsburg.

Accommodations & Meals
Itinerary Highlights
Prices

Destination Highlights
Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., Mount Vernon, Williamsburg

2008 Adventure Travel Dates (8 Days/7 Nights)

Accommodations & Meals

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Itinerary Highlights

Places

• Independence Hall
• The Liberty Bell
• Smithsonian Museums and Spy Museum
• Arlington National Cemetery
• Mt. Vernon

Disney Difference

• Dinner hosted by Ben Franklin
• Bicycle through the National Mall
• Meet Martha Washington at Mt. Vernon

Junior Adventurer/Family Friendly

• Visit wig and brick makers at Colonial Williamsburg
• National Zoo
• Disney movie night

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View 2008 Terms and Conditions (Adobe PDF)

Download Printable Itinerary (Adobe PDF)

Day 1:
(Meal Included: Dinner)

Arrive in Philadelphia
Upon arrival at Philadelphia Airport, meet an Adventures by Disney representative who will greet your family. Relax as a driver assists with your luggage and whisks you away to the hotel!

The Hyatt Regency Philadelphia at Penn's Landing
Unwind from your journey as your Adventure Guides check your family into this elegant landmark hotel. Settle into the waterfront oasis that will be your home for the next few days.

Welcome Reception and Dinner
Tonight, meet the other families that will share the adventure. Enjoy fine American cuisine at an authentic 18th-century restaurant with our very special dinner host - Benjamin Franklin!

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Day 2:
(Meal Included: Breakfast)

Independence Hall
All patriots are hereby summoned to the Independence Hall of Philadelphia where a local expert will share in-depth knowledge about the historic sites in America's former capital.

Liberty Bell
Walk in the footsteps of the founding fathers, study the majesty of the Liberty Bell and immerse yourselves in the stirring ambiance of America's birthplace at Independence National Historic Park.

Trolley Tour
Hop on board a private trolley and visit the Franklin Court Printing Shop and the National Constitution Center.

An Afternoon in the City of Brotherly Love
Explore a thriving American city that mixes a rich history with the excitement of a modern metropolis. Run up the steps of the famous Philadelphia Museum of Art, dare to step into the home of Edgar Allan Poe and sink your teeth into a scrumptious Philly cheese steak.

Dinner with Your Family
Philadelphia is home to some of the finest restaurants in the world. Enjoy dinner on your own with your family - your Adventure Guides will help you find the perfect place to dine.

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Day 3:
(Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Lunch at ESPN Zone
Following our morning drive to the nation's capital, savor an all-American meal at ESPN Zone. This dining and entertainment center offers favorite grilled foods and salads along with interactive games and unbeatable sports viewing.

Bike Exploration of Washington, DC
Let freedom ring - as well as the bell on your bicycle! Leisurely pedal around the National Mall on a privately guided excursion. Cycle by the Capitol Building, the towering Washington Memorial, the famous Lincoln Memorial, the White House and plenty of other stops along the way. It's the most fun that your family has ever had on two wheels!

Welcome to L'Enfant Plaza in Washington, DC
Make yourself comfortable in your centrally located hotel, where your luggage is already waiting in your room. L'Enfant Plaza is literally steps away from the National Mall and countless world-class museums and monuments.

Dinner on the Georgetown Waterfront
Enjoy fun family dinner on Georgetown's vibrant waterfront. Your family can engage in a lively debate over which is better - the seafood or the view of the city!

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Day 4:
(Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch)

Iwo Jima Monument
Salute America's heroes - the men and women who fought and gave their lives defending freedom and liberty. The 60 foot-tall United States Marine Corps War Memorial depicts the planting of the American flag during the battle of Iwo Jima. A local expert will guide our group through these landmarks all day!

Arlington National Cemetery
Pay tribute to the brave members of America's military. Arlington National Cemetery is the sacred resting place for over a quarter million members of the United States Armed Forces, including President John F. Kennedy. Witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns.

BBQ at Columbia Island Marina
What could be more American than a good old-fashioned barbeque? Round up your family for some down-home cooking on the banks of the Potomac River.

Evening in Washington
Explore the priceless treasures of the Washington area! Sneak into the International Spy Museum or visit the world-famous Smithsonian Museums, including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

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Day 5:
(Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch)

Excursion to Mount Vernon
Enjoy an interactive experience at the newly-refurbished country home of America's first president, George Washington. A local expert will lead you on a fascinating tour of the exquisitely restored Georgian architectural masterpiece and the beautiful sloping grounds that gently roll down to the Potomac. It's easy to picture George strolling in for an afternoon snack!

Lunch at Mount Vernon Inn
Follow our local expert and get a taste of colonial American history at the Mount Vernon Inn. The décor is straight out of the 18th century and the staff is attired in authentic period dress. Enjoy authentic colonial recipes.

An Afternoon in Washington
Lose yourself in the history, legends and lore of America. Walk the National Mall from the Capitol Building to the White House, pay your respects to the Great Emancipator at the Lincoln Memorial and view the most important documents in American history at the National Archive, including the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution of the United States of America. If you didn't have time to explore the International Spy Museum yesterday, you can do so on your own today.

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Day 6:
(Meal Included: Breakfast)

The National Zoo
Follow winding wooded paths holding over 2,400 animals of 400 different species when you spend time on your own at this popular zoo in the heart of Washington, D.C. Discover lions, tigers, zebras, elephants, rhinos, gorillas and rare giant pandas! Younger children will love the new Kids' Farm area, where they can get up close to domestic animals. Enjoy a casual lunch at one of the zoo’s concession stands or take a snack to one of the picnic areas.

Arrive at The Great Wolf Lodge
The Great Wolf Lodge is a vacation destination in itself! The wilderness-themed resort features a massive 67,000 square-foot indoor water park with a wave pool, play area and eight exciting waterslides. At your leisure, take a break from the action with a sumptuous massage at the full-service Elements Aveda® Spa*.
*Some activities not included in trip price.

Disney Movie Night
Enjoy dinner on your own at one of the diverse restaurants in this cosmopolitan city. Your Adventure Guides can help you find the perfect meal for your family. Afterwards, the whole family can enjoy a screening of a Disney film, or parents can spend some quiet time for themselves while their children enjoy this special treat.

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Day 7:
(Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner)

Travel Back in Time to Colonial Williamsburg
Welcome to one of the world's largest and most elaborate living museums. At Colonial Williamsburg, it's easy to forget about modern times and drift back through history. The 301-acre Historic Area is populated with costumed "interpreters" who faithfully portray the men and women of early America. Enjoy interactive visits to a wigmaker, a printer, the armory and a colonial brick-maker.

Lunch at King’s Arms Tavern
Dine like 18th-century gentry at this elegant restaurant and enjoy an assortment of favorite colonial dishes. Experience what it felt like to eat in a real tavern in this meticulous recreation.

An Afternoon in History
You'll have plenty of time to explore the city of Williamsburg after a privately-guided tour of restored and reconstructed buildings from the 18th century. Take a leisurely carriage ride or get swept up in a revolution — the day is yours to spend as you wish!

Farewell Dinner and Special Surprise
Celebrate the spirit of America as your family assembles with fellow Adventurers for a grand farewell cookout. This festive dinner banquet will cap off a week to remember!

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Day 8:
(Meal Included: Breakfast)

Breakfast at the Hotel
Bid goodbye to all your fellow adventurers, wish them a patriotic trip home and enjoy one last breakfast in historic Williamsburg!

Transfers to Airport
Relax and enjoy your final moments in Williamsburg, as we handle your luggage and arrange for transportation to the Richmond airport.

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What type of identification is required for this trip?
U.S. Guests 18 and over are required to present a valid and unexpired government-issued photo identification (i.e., driver's license or passport) for air travel, and potentially at other times during the trip. In addition, Guests 17 years of age or younger may be required to show additional documentation when traveling with a single parent. Non-U.S. citizens should check with the U.S Department of State at www.state.gov/travelandbusiness for information on documentation requirements.
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What airport do Guests fly in and out of?
Guests are picked up at the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) on arrival day. Flights should arrive no later than 3:30 p.m. At the end of the adventure, Guests will transfer to Richmond International Airport (RIC). Flights should leave no earlier than 10:00 a.m.
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Are transfers included for arrivals or departures from different locations or at different times from the itinerary?
No. Transfers are only included from the specified arrival/departure airports and hotels.  For the Spirit of America trip, transfers are included from the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to the Hyatt Regency at Penn’s Landing on arrival day. On departure day, transfers are available from Great Wolf Lodge to the Richmond International Airport (RIC).
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Can the vacation extend beyond the Adventures by Disney itinerary?
Yes, Guests may stay in Philadelphia before the itinerary. Extended stays are available at special rates if booked through Adventures by Disney Travel Services, Inc. in conjunction with a land package and cannot be combined with any other offer. Please contact us for further information.
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How will the group travel between destinations?
During the adventure, transportation is provided by a motor coach.
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What is the climate like?
During the summer months of June through September, temperatures in the day average between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit, and dip down to 60 degrees Fahrenheit at night. In the summer, the weather is generally sunny and clear, with the occasional rain shower.
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How strenuous are the activities?
While this adventure is not considered physically strenuous, most days will include two or more hours of city walking. While in Washington, D.C., the adventure includes a gentle bicycle ride through the National Mall (mostly traffic-free). Temperatures may be hot and often humid, so wear cool clothing and a hat, and drink plenty of water. While nearly all of the trip’s featured activities are gentle if examined separately, the full range of activities requires a moderate amount of stamina in order to get the most of your vacation.
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What is the basis for the suggested minimum age for this trip?
While Disney welcomes children ages 4 and up at the time of travel, it is recommended that children be at least 5 years old at the time of travel on the Spirit of America trip. This is based on several factors, such as the duration of the vacation and amount of physical activity (e.g., walking, biking) involved. Because each child is different, please contact us to discuss whether this is the right trip for each child being considered.
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Are there age, height and weight restrictions for certain activities?
Yes. Please note that for biking, Guests must be at least 4 feet, 6 inches in height in order to ride their own bicycle. Guests less than 4 feet, 6 inches tall will be required to ride in trailers or tandem bikes. A parent or guardian must accompany all Guests under 16 years of age.
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What types of meals are served during this itinerary?
Typically, breakfast is served each morning in buffet style and offers a variety of dishes. Dinners and lunches usually include fish, meat, and pasta or rice entrées; vegetables and salad; and desserts and fruit. Some included meals on this trip are served buffet style while others offer a limited-choice menu. Given the nature of group travel, á la carte menu choices are not available.  Children-friendly choices are available at all meals. Menu items are subject to change due to the availability and seasonality of foods. In order to offer each Guest a bit of time to enjoy meals amongst themselves, there are some meals that are not included in the itinerary. These meals have been planned in towns or cities where there are plenty of options available.  For questions or concerns about dining at any time during the vacation, the Adventure Guides will be happy to assist.
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Can special dietary needs be accommodated?
Adventures by Disney can accommodate some special dietary needs at no additional charge. Unfortunately, some special dietary needs requested may not be able to be accommodated. Please contact us in advance to advise of special needs prior to departure.
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Is alcohol included?
Alcoholic beverages are typically not included with scheduled meals, however, they may be purchased at the Guests own expense.
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Is this itinerary appropriate for travelers with special needs?
Please note that this vacation includes activities that present certain challenges to Guests with special needs. It is strongly recommended that persons requiring assistance be accompanied by a companion who is capable of and totally responsible for providing assistance. Neither Adventures by Disney nor its suppliers may physically lift or assist Guests onto transportation vehicles. Please contact us to discuss specific needs.
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Are tips included?

• Adventures by Disney has taken care of certain tips and gratuities for all included meals and activities such as tips for porters, housekeepers, drivers, activity providers, local experts, and dining room staff for included meals.
• Adventure Guide Gratuities: Gratuities for Adventures Guides are not included. For Guests who feel that their Adventure Guides have provided excellent service, the following discretionary gratuity is suggested : Per Guest/Per Adventure guide/Per Day - $5-$8 USD.  Adventure Guides accept local currency, U.S. dollars, and travelers’ checks.

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What if Adventures by Disney cancels the adventure prior to departure?
Adventures by Disney reserves the right to cancel or reschedule an adventure at any time for any reason, such as if there are too few Guests or if the quality of the trip or the safety of the Guests would, in Disney’s opinion, be compromised, such as from unforeseen circumstances (acts of God) or other circumstances beyond Adventures by Disney's control.

• If air is purchased through Adventures by Disney Travel Services, Inc., Disney will attempt to re-book for another departure of the same adventure during the same season, subject to availability, and Disney will bear any resulting airline re-booking charges. If unable to re-book on another departure, a full refund of all payments that had been made to Disney for the canceled adventure will be issued, including land package, airfare and Vacation Protection Plan (unless you have filed a claim), which refund shall constitute a full settlement.
• If air is not purchased through Adventures by Disney Travel Services, Inc., and Disney cancels an adventure prior to its scheduled start date, Disney will attempt to re-book for another departure of the same adventure during the same season, subject to availability; however, the Guest will bear any resulting airline re-booking charges. If unable to re-book on another departure, Disney’s sole obligation is to refund payment received for the land portion and Vacation Protection Plan (unless you have filed a claim), which refund shall constitute a full settlement. Disney assumes no responsibility for any losses incurred by you on account of non-refundable air tickets or otherwise.

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¹ Value, Standard and Peak dates are identified on prior page.
² Valid for bookings made more than 120 days prior to departure.  The number of packages available at these rates is limited. Not valid with any other offer.
³ Based on double, triple or quad occupancy. Single supplement applies. Subject to availability, eligible parties of 4 may be booked as a quad or two doubles.
⁴ Child rate applies to Guests under 12 when accompanied by an adult in the same room. Guests under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.

All prices are listed in USD.  Airfare to and from destination is not included. Please call for assistance in purchasing flights.

Notes on Accommodations: (subject to availability)

• Parties of three are accommodated in one room with two double beds or one king bed and a rollaway.
• Parties of four booked as a quad:
  • In Philadelphia and Washington, D.C., quads are accommodated in one room with one king bed or two double beds and a rollaway.
  • In Williamsburg, quads are accommodated in a one-bedroom suite with one king bed, two twin beds and a pullout sofa.
• Parties of four booked as two doubles are accommodated in two rooms, each having either two double beds or one king bed.
• Connecting rooms may be requested.
• Pre-night dates are available. Please contact us for more details.
  

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