Civil Rights Tour: Washington DC to Philadelphia | Sample Itinerary
Imagine stepping into the very heart of America's struggle for justice and equality on an unforgettable tour through Washington DC, Baltimore, and Philadelphia—cities where the Civil Rights Movement's most powerful stories unfolded and continue to inspire. In Washington DC, stand where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his iconic "I Have a Dream" speech at the Lincoln Memorial, reflect at the soaring Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and immerse yourself in the profound collections of the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, home to artifacts that tell tales of resilience and triumph.
Journey to Baltimore, a pivotal hub of early activism, to explore the sites, including Fort McHenry, that helped inspire Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner".
Then arrive in Philadelphia, cradle of liberty yet also a battleground for freedom, where you'll visit the President’s House site revealing the enslaved people who labored there, walk trails tied to the Underground Railroad, and connect with sites honoring Octavius Catto and other fearless advocates who fought for voting rights and dignity.
This journey isn't just sightseeing—it's a moving, eye-opening experience that brings history to life, sparks deep conversations about progress and perseverance, and leaves you energized, inspired, and proud to walk in the footsteps of those who changed the world. Get ready to feel the pulse of courage and hope—your adventure awaits!
What's Included
- First Class Hotels
- Deluxe A/C Motor Coaches
- Entrance and Program Fees
- Guided Tours
- Learning Opportunities
- Breakfast Daily
Daily Itinerary
Day 1 Day 1 - Travel to Washington, DC
Arrive in Washington D.C. and head directly to the National Mall. First visit the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963. Then walk to the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial across the Tidal Basin. Continue your walk to the Washington Monument and the White House before heading to the Black Lives Matter Plaza. This plaza is the site of protests in June 2020. Head to your hotel to check in. Overnight in Washington D.C.
Day 2 Day 2 - Washington, DC
Start your morning by visiting the new Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture. With over 40,000 artifacts, this museum explores resiliency, optimism, and spirituality reflected in African American history and culture. When you’re done here, enjoy lunch from one of the many food trucks located along the National Mall. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore the other Smithsonian museums and the Museum of the Bible. Overnight in Washington D.C.
Day 3 Day 3 - Washington, DC to Baltimore
Start your day by visiting the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. Tour the historic house, explore the grounds and learn about the famous abolitionist. Then visit Smithsonian’s Anacostia Community Museum which is dedicated to people of color in the Washington D.C. area. Head back into the city to visit the Supreme Court of the United States, where many landmark Civil Rights rulings have been made. Enjoy lunch before heading to Baltimore. 1-1.5 hours drive depending on traffic. Upon arriving to Baltimore, head to the harbor for a 45-minute harbor cruise. Enjoy the sites of Baltimore Inner Harbor, including Fort McHenry, the fort that helped inspire Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Overnight in Baltimore.
Day 4 Day 4 - Baltimore to Philadelphia
This morning, explore the early history of the United Methodist Church at Lovely Lane United Methodist Church – also known as “The Mother Church of American Methodism.” Then head to Fell’s Point and walk the Historic Fell’s Point Trail with a local guide. Along this trail learn about colonial Baltimore, see the childhood home of Billie Holiday, one of the greatest jazz voices of all time, and the home of Frederick Douglass, and so much more. End the tour at the Broadway Public Market and enjoy lunch here (lunch not included). After lunch, walk to the Frederick Douglass-Isaac Myers Maritime Park. Here, learn more about Frederick Douglass and dive into the story of Isaac Myers, a free-born African American who founded the Chesapeake Marine Railway and Dry Dock Company. Once done here, hit the road to Philadelphia. Overnight in Philadelphia.
Day 5 Day 5 - Philadelphia
This morning, visit Independence National Historical Site. Here you can visit a multitude of sites important to the history of the United States – the Liberty bell, Independence Hall, Congress Hall, and many other historic places. Make sure to stop by the President’s House site, an outdoor exhibit exploring President Washington and his household – including his slaves. When you’re done here, head next to Belmont Mansion and learn more about the Underground Railroad. Head back to the city center for a free afternoon. Lunch is on your own today. Overnight in Philadelphia.
Day 6 Day 6 - Return Home
After breakfast start your journey home.
