Overview
See the sights along Boston’s Freedom Trail, visit the town of the infamous Salem Witch Trials, take a ferry to Ellis Island, once the gateway to New York City, and climb the steps of the Lincoln Memorial for views across the U.S. capital.
Itinerary
Boston, New York City and Washington, D.C.
- History
- American History
Day 1
Travel to Boston, Massachusetts
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Boston city walk
Welcome to Beantown! Explore a city known for its baked beans, Boston cream pie, and a certain famous tea party. Stroll along Newbury Street, past upscale boutiques, outdoor cafés, and million-dollar Victorian brownstones in historic Back Bay. Continue to Beacon Hill, known for its narrow streets, brick sidewalks, and the Massachusetts State House. Then, walk through Boston Public Garden, the first public botanical garden in the United States, to see its famous Swan Boats, colourful plants and flowers, and impressive statues.
Day 2
Harvard Square walking tour
Explore Harvard Square in Cambridge, a lively neighbourhood known for its historic streets, restaurants, shops and memorable film locations. Discover the area surrounding Harvard University, the oldest university in the US, and learn about its influence on the history and culture of Cambridge.
Freedom Trail walking tour
Follow a portion of the red-brick Freedom Trail through Boston and visit important sites tied to the American Revolution and Abolitionist movement. Along the way, see Boston Common, the Old Granary Burial Ground, King’s Chapel, the Old State House, Faneuil Hall, Paul Revere’s House, and Old North Church.
Dinner at Faneuil Hall
Day 3
Boston Duck Boat Tours experience
Climb aboard am amphibious, WWII-style vehicle for a unique tour of Boston's iconic districts and scenic Charles River. Explore the city's top landmarks as your guide shares captivating stories rich in history, humour, and local charm.
Travel to Salem
Salem city walk
Explore Salem’s complex history and the events of the 1692 witch trials, when accusations of witchcraft spread throughout the community with devastating consequences. Consider the theories and myths surrounding the trials as you visit the Witch Trials Memorial and Old Burying Point, then continue to historic Pickering Wharf.
Salem Witch Museum visit
Discover the chilling events of 1692 as you explore immersive exhibits and presentations that bring the Salem Witch Trials to life. Learn about the people, accusations, and consequences that continue to fascinate and haunt the town.
Salem Ghost Tour
Walk the lantern-lit streets of Salem and uncover chilling tales of witches, hauntings and unsolved mysteries. Explore historic landmarks and learn about the 1692 witch trials and the stories and legends that have shaped Salem’s enduring reputation.
Day 4
Travel to the USA (New York City)
Midtown walking tour
Take a walking tour through the bustling streets of Midtown Manhattan, home to famous sights such as Times Square, Rockefeller Center, Madison Square Garden and some of the city’s most renowned museums and institutions.
Empire State Building and Observatory visit
Soaring above the Manhattan skyline, the Empire State Building is a masterpiece of Art Deco design and one of the world’s tallest structures. Ride to the top for sweeping views of New York’s skyscrapers, parks, and rivers—a breathtaking panorama that captures the city’s unmistakable energy.
Day 5
Ferry boat to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty
The Statue of Liberty, a gift from France to the United States, was created to commemorate the centennial of American independence and celebrate the friendship between the two nations. Standing tall in New York Harbor, it has become one of the world’s most recognised symbols of freedom and democracy. Nearby, Ellis Island served as the busiest immigration station in the United States from 1892 to 1954, processing more than 12 million immigrants. Today, visitors can explore the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration and learn about the experiences, challenges and resilience of those who arrived in search of a better life.
Lower Manhattan guided sightseeing tour
Discover the deep history and modern energy of Lower Manhattan, where colonial roots, immigration, and commerce intersect. Walk along Wall Street, once fortified by Dutch settlers and now the financial capital of the world. Visit Trinity Church, a landmark of faith and endurance that houses the grave of Alexander Hamilton. Conclude at the 9/11 Memorial, a powerful tribute honouring lives lost and the city’s enduring spirit of resilience.
Broadway Show
Experience a world-famous Broadway show and feel the energy of New York City’s theatre scene. Immerse yourself in dazzling performances of music, dance, and storytelling, and create memories that'll last long after the final curtain.
Day 6
Travel to Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Philadelphia guided sightseeing tour
Explore Philadelphia’s rich history with a local licensed guide. Visit Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted, and see the iconic Liberty Bell at the Liberty Bell Center. Continue to Ben Franklin’s grave, Elfreth’s Alley, and the Friends Meeting House while discovering the people, places, and pivotal events that helped shape the founding of the United States.
Travel to Washington, D.C.
Day 7
U.S. Capitol guided tour
Go on a guided tour of the building where the men and women chosen to represent the citizens of the United States convene to discuss and decide on important legislation.
Supreme Court visit
Walk the halls where some of the most influential Americans have walked and see the courtrooms where some of the most defining decisions in American history have been made.
Mount Vernon Education Center and Grounds Tour
Step into 18th-century life at George Washington’s scenic estate and mansion while exploring historic buildings, gardens, and an education centre. Learn about the first president’s life through interactive exhibits, tour the working farm, and visit the family tombs where he and Martha are buried.
Washington, D.C. evening guided sightseeing tour
Night is the perfect time to see Washington, D.C., when its monuments and memorials glow under the lights. Explore the National Mall and Tidal Basin, including the World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Memorial and Washington Monument, and stop for a photo at the White House.
Day 8
Smithsonian Museums visit
Journey through America’s past, present and future at the world’s largest museum, education and research complex. Marvel at immersive galleries, national treasures, interactive exhibits and diverse collections spanning history, art, natural wonders, culture, science and beyond.
National Archives Museum visit
Visit the National Archives museum, home to some of the most important documents in U.S. history, including the Constitution, Bill of Rights and Declaration of Independence.
Ford's Theatre visit
Step back in time at this restored 1860s theatre where President Lincoln was assassinated, forever changing American history. Explore the recreated Presidential Box, Civil War-era exhibits and rare artefacts that tell the story of that tragic day.
Day 9
Arlington National Cemetery and U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial visit
Established on the former estate of Mary Anna Custis Lee, wife of Robert E. Lee and a descendant of Martha Washington, Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place of more than 400,000 U.S. service members, veterans and their families. Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and see the eternal flame that marks the grave of President John F. Kennedy.
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing in October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more meaningful learning moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Select transport options that suit your group's needs
- Choose from a variety of accommodation styles to support your level of comfort
Dine Your Way
- Choose pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2 course meals at local restaurants or at your accommodation, with the option to upgrade to 3 courses
Inclusions
Accommodations
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions
Transportation to and from your destination
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Daily meals with options varying by program
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding multi-day bus drivers)
Entrance fees to attractions as per itinerary
Guided sightseeing tours and city walks as per itinerary
Scenes from Boston, New York City & Washington
Health, Safety & Protection
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Request a Quote
Ready to turn this itinerary into an unforgettable learning experience? Tell us about your school, group and travel plans, and our team will create a tailored quote for your next adventure.