The Historic East: Legacy of Liberty
October 17, 2024 thru October 24, 2024
Embark on an 8-day historical adventure from Philadelphia to Virginia, exploring America’s foundational sites. Discover Philadelphia’s Liberty Bell and Independence Hall, delve into the Revolutionary War history at Valley Forge, and relive the Civil War at Gettysburg. Experience the tranquility of Amish Country, the scenic beauty of Shenandoah National Park, and the legacy of Thomas Jefferson at Monticello. Wander through Colonial Williamsburg’s living history and conclude with the historic Jamestown Settlement. This journey weaves through the tapestry of American heritage, offering immersive experiences in history, culture, and natural beauty.
Transportation
Roundtrip air transportation
Transportation
Motorcoach
Duration
8 days, 7 nights
Activity Level Rating 4
Active
Availability
Available
Meals Included
12 meals (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners) included
Pickup/Dropoff
Roundtrip door-to-door livery service
Gratuities
Tour director, driver & local guide tips included
Tour Highlights
- Liberty Bell Center
- Independence Hall National Historical Park
- Congress Hall
- Philadelphia City Tour
- Spirit of Philadelphia Dinner Cruise
- Valley Forge with Encampment Tour
- Amish Country Tour
- Gettysburg National Military Park Museum
- Gettysburg National Cemetery
- Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum
- Harpers Ferry National Historic Park
- Shenandoah National Park
- Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello
- Capitol Building Tour
- Colonial Williamsburg
- Jamestown Settlement & Jamestown Glasshouse
Inclusions
- Roundtrip air transportation from TUS (not including airline baggage and in-flight charges)
- Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
- Roundtrip door-to-door livery service
- 7 nights’ lodging at excellent hotels
- Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
- 12 meals (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners) included
- Admission to all listed attractions
- Your professional Pleasurebent Tours Tour Director
- All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)
Day 1 – Travel to Philadelphia
We depart on our journey from Tucson and fly into Philadelphia. We will settle into our hotel to rest after our travels.
Day 2 – Philadelphia's Historic Sites & Scenic Dinner Cruise
Begin with breakfast at your hotel, then set off to the Liberty Bell Center for a glimpse into America’s fight for freedom. A short stroll away is Independence Hall National Historical Park, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution. Next, visit Congress Hall, a cornerstone of U.S. political history, followed by an independent lunch at the bustling Reading Terminal Market.
In the afternoon, enjoy a guided tour of historic landmarks, including Christ Church and Elfreth’s Alley. Cap off your day with an enchanting dinner cruise aboard the Spirit of Philadelphia, offering stunning river views and a relaxing atmosphere under the city lights.
Meals included: (B, D)
Day 3 – Valley Forge Exploration & Amish Country Adventure
Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and embarking on a day steeped in history at Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Engage with the past as you explore the museum, where the stories of this pivotal Civil War battle come to life.
Your day begins with a nourishing breakfast at the hotel before heading to the historic Valley Forge. Here, meet your step-on guide for a captivating 2-hour Encampment driving Tour. Traverse the 10-mile loop, visiting key sites like the National Memorial Arch and Washington’s Headquarters, while soaking in the rich history of this pivotal Revolutionary War site.
Next, savor a delightful lunch at the Plain & Fancy Restaurant in Bird-in-Hand, PA. In the afternoon, embark on a unique journey through Lancaster County. Delve into the heart of Amish country, exploring the serene landscapes and learning about the Amish way of life.
Your day of historical and cultural exploration concludes with check-in at the Heritage Hotel Lancaster, offering a comfortable retreat to reflect on the day’s enriching experiences.
Meals included: (B, L)
Day 4 — Journey through America's Gateway
Fuel up with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and embarking on a day steeped in history at Gettysburg National Military Park Museum & Visitor Center. Engage with the past as you explore the museum, where the stories of this pivotal Civil War battle come to life.
After, begin a guided tour of the Gettysburg Battlefield. This 2-hour journey across hallowed grounds offers insights into the strategies, struggles, and significance of this historic conflict. Enjoy an independent lunch and continue your exploration at the Gettysburg National Cemetery, a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made during the battle.
The afternoon brings a delightful change of pace with a visit to Hollabaugh Bros. Fruit Farm & Market. Experience the Deluxe Dumpling Tour, which includes an apple dumpling demonstration, a bee room talk, a wagon tour, and delicious samples of apple cider and donuts. You’ll also take home apples and your own dumpling.
Conclude your day at the Gettysburg Beyond the Battle Museum, gaining a deeper understanding of the town’s history beyond the Civil War. Finally, check into The Gettysburg Hotel for a well-deserved rest after a day rich in historical and culinary experiences.
Meals included: (B)
Day 5 – Harpers Ferry Exploration & Shenandoah National Park
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before departing for Harpers Ferry National Historic Park. This picturesque town is not only scenically stunning but also rich in history. Start your visit at the Visitor Center and take the shuttle to Lower Town, where you can explore several museums and exhibits along the quaint streets.
After departing Harpers Ferry, enjoy an independent lunch at a location of your choice. In the afternoon, journey to Shenandoah National Park. Shenandoah is known for its breathtaking beauty and the Skyline Drive, a 105-mile road that runs along the crest of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Make a brief stop at Stony Man Mountain Overlook for impressive views, then continue to the Harry F. Byrd, Sr. Visitor Center, where you can learn more about the park’s natural and cultural history.
Conclude your day with check-in at the Holiday Inn Monticello-Charlottesville.
Meals included: (B)
Day 6 – Monticello Visit & Richmond’s Capitol Building Tour
Kick off the day with breakfast at your hotel, followed by a departure to Monticello. Experience the history and legacy of Thomas Jefferson as you tour his iconic mountaintop home. After exploring Monticello, head to Michie Tavern for a historical and hearty lunch experience. This 18th-century tavern offers a taste of colonial America with its traditional fare.
The afternoon is dedicated to a guided tour of the Capitol Building in Richmond, Virginia. Here, immerse yourself in the rich history of this significant political landmark, with time to explore the gift shop and museum exhibits.
Your day concludes with check-in at the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites.
Meals included: (B, L)
Day 7 – Exploring Colonial Williamsburg & Farewell Dinner
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites, preparing you for a day of exploration and discovery in Colonial Williamsburg. This day is yours to roam freely in one of the largest living history museums in the world. Stroll through the historic district, where actors in period costume recreate daily colonial life. Visit historic buildings, watch traditional craftspeople at work, and immerse yourself in the rich history of the era.
As the day winds down, gather for a special farewell dinner.
Meals included: (B, D)
Day 8 – Travel Home
Start your final day with breakfast at the hotel before checking out and heading to the Jamestown Settlement. Here, a guided tour awaits, offering insights into the first permanent English colony in America. Explore the life-size re-creations of the colonists’ fort, the Powhatan village, and the ships that brought them to the New World. After the tour, take some time to visit the exhibits and galleries.
Depart Jamestown Settlement with an included box lunch and proceed to the Historic Jamestowne Glasshouse. Witness the fascinating art of glassblowing as costumed interpreters demonstrate techniques used since 1608, offering a glimpse into one of America’s first industries.
Your journey concludes with a departure to the Richmond airport, where you’ll bid farewell to Virginia, taking with you the memories and experiences of a trip rich in American history and heritage.
Meals included: (B, L)
Itinerary subject to change.
Fun Facts
Largest Amish Population
Pennsylvania is home to the largest Amish population in the United States, particularly in Lancaster County. This area is often referred to as Pennsylvania Dutch Country.
Thomas Jefferson's Monticello
Monticello, located near Charlottesville, Virginia, was the primary plantation of Thomas Jefferson, who designed and heavily modified the estate himself.
Gettysburg Battle
The most significant event in Gettysburg's history is the Battle of Gettysburg, fought from July 1 to 3, 1863. It was the war's bloodiest battle with the largest number of casualties and is often described as the turning point in the Civil War.
Hotel Information
Delta Hotels by Marriott Philadelphia Airport
Philadelphia, PA
Heritage Hotel Lancaster
Lancaster, PA
The Gettysburg Hotel
Gettysburg, PA
Holiday Inn Monticello - Charlottesville
Charlottesville, VA
Williamsburg Woodlands Hotel & Suites
Williamsburg, VA
Package Pricing
$4,355 per peerson
Double Occupancy
Deposit: $200
$4,975 per person
Single Occupancy
Deposit: $200
Final Payment Due:
July 16, 2024
Deposit: N/A
Price Includes
• Roundtrip air transportation from TUS (not including airline baggage and in-flight charges)
• Transportation by deluxe motorcoach
• Roundtrip door-to-door livery service
• 7 nights’ lodging at excellent hotels
• Baggage handling at hotels (for one piece)
• 12 meals (7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners)
• Admission to all listed attractions
• Your professional Pleasurebent Tours Tour Director
• All taxes and tips for included items (except hotel housekeeping)
Booking Policy
FULL PAYMENT DUE: July 16, 2024
CANCELLATION FEES:
- None through July 16, 2024
- $200 – July 17 – August 13, 2024
- $2,600 – August 14 – September 10, 2024
- 100% – After September 10, 2024
Travel Insurance
In today’s changing travel environment, it’s important to help protect your travel investment so you can relax and enjoy your trip. Unforeseen events such as flight delays, baggage loss or even a sudden sickness or injury could impact your travel plans. For your convenience, we offer a Travelex Insurance Services protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected.
Please click here for more information.
ACTIVITY LEVEL RATING
Level 4: Active
Expectations: The tour includes well-paced walking tours with regular breaks. Up to 2-3 hours of walking each day. To fully take advantage of all this tour has to offer, guests need to be able to walk longer distances, climb several flights of stairs and navigate steps and uneven terrain walking for extended periods of time over more difficult terrain (e.g. cobblestones, city hills, stairs without handrails, limited or no access to elevators). Your itinerary can include significant changes in temperature and altitude and may require a higher number of longer travel days with morning and/or evening activities. Most trips will feature long touring days, many full-day excursions and a full and active itinerary with a faster pace and longer distances. Excursions require standing and walking to city centers where coaches are prohibited.
Appropriate for: Travelers who are physically fit, expect a vigorous pace and enjoy participating in two to three hours of physical activity per day.
ITINERARY
For your reference, we send to you a detailed itinerary approximately 3-4 weeks prior to the scheduled tour departure. This has day-by-day times and events, hotel information where you can be reached in case of an emergency, and airline information.
The times listed on the itinerary are all approximate. We cannot be held responsible for schedule changes due to unforeseen circumstances with the weather, transportation agents, highway conditions, hotels or contracting agents.
EMERGENCY CONTACT
It is always a good idea to carry on your person a list of medications that you are taking and an emergency contact phone number while you are traveling. And we suggest making a copy of the itinerary and provide it to a friend or family member.
GRATUITIES/ITEMS INCLUDED IN PRICE
All hotel baggage handling fees are included. We also include basic gratuities for the Tour Director, Coach Driver, Livery Drivers and local Tour Guides. If someone has truly gone above and beyond additional tipping is permitted, but never required.
LIVERY
For your convenience, we have a (round-tour) door-to-door pickup service with each multi-day tour. (This service is not available to all clients depending on your location.) Approximately 2 to 3 days prior to the departure date you will receive a call from our office and we will tell you your assigned pickup time. (These times can vary up to 15 minutes depending on traffic.)
MOTORCOACH SEATING
With passenger health in mind, we are not currently offering daily seat rotation. You will have an assigned seat and boarding order to allow for social distancing among passengers. At booking let us know if you prefer Front, Middle or Back of motorcoach. Each section comprises 4 to 5 rows. We will try to accommodate all requests. If we are unable to honor all requests, preference will be given based on date of your tour deposit.
LODGING REQUESTS
If you would like to request special accommodations at the hotel(s) where we are lodging, please call us as soon as possible and we will forward these requests for you. The phone numbers of the hotel(s) where we are staying are listed on the itinerary.
Many hotels around the country have instituted a "reconditioning fee" of $300 or more that is levied upon a guest that smokes in a non-smoking room. If this occurs during our tour you will be responsible for paying this fee to the hotel prior to check-out.
TRAVEL REQUESTS
We pay close attention to your requests but please realize that these are merely requests and cannot be guaranteed.
RESPONSIBILITY
Pleasurebent Tours acts solely as an agent in arranging hotels, transportation, sightseeing, baggage-handling, and other services and does not assume any liability for injury, damage, loss or delay due to any act or default of any company or person. We, along with our subcontractors, reserve the right to make changes to an itinerary if it is necessary for the proper handling of a tour.
WEATHER AND CLOTHING/MISC. SUGGESTIONS
The weather in Pennsylvania in October is typically characterized by the transition from the warm, humid days of summer to the cooler, crisper conditions of autumn. Here are some general aspects of Pennsylvania's weather in October:
Cooling Temperatures: October sees a noticeable drop in temperatures compared to September. Average high temperatures range from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit (around 13 to 18 degrees Celsius), while lows at night can dip into the 40s and occasionally the 30s Fahrenheit (around 4 to 9 degrees Celsius).
Variable Conditions: Weather in October can be quite variable. Early in the month, you might experience relatively warm and sunny days, while later in the month, the weather tends to become cooler and more indicative of late autumn.
Fall Foliage: October is known for its beautiful fall foliage in Pennsylvania, with leaves changing colors and creating picturesque landscapes, particularly in rural and mountainous areas. This makes it a popular month for outdoor activities like hiking and sightseeing.
Precipitation: Rainfall is fairly common in October, but it's not typically the rainiest month. The state can also experience the first frost and occasionally an early snowfall, especially in the northern and higher elevation regions.
Regional Variations: Weather can vary significantly across the state due to its diverse topography. The southeastern part (including Philadelphia) tends to be milder, while the northern and western parts of the state (including areas near the Allegheny Mountains) can be cooler.
Layered Clothing Recommended: Given the variability in weather, it's advisable to dress in layers when visiting Pennsylvania in October. Mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, while afternoons might be warmer.
Shorter Days: Daylight hours start to decrease significantly in October, with earlier sunsets signaling the approach of winter.
When planning a visit to Pennsylvania in October, it's a good idea to check the local weather forecast closer to your trip for more precise and up-to-date information, as weather conditions can change rapidly.
Inquire About This Tour
Submit your inquiry for more information about a tour. We will get back to you with a (human) response as soon as possible. During the week that’s usually within a couple of hours. Evenings and weekends may take us a little bit longer. Please note that this is an inquiry for tour bookings only and does not constitute or confirm a reservation on a tour.
Call 520.325.8839 to Book Today!
If you aren't ready to inquire by email or would rather call and speak to a team member, we look forward to hearing from you.
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