Tour Begins: 5:00 PM, New York Marriott Downtown. A transfer is included from John F. Kennedy International Airport, LaGuardia Airport or Newark Liberty International Airport to New York Marriott Downtown. A warm welcome to New York City, a fitting beginning to this journey as the city was at the core of so many journeys in our earliest years of operation 100 years ago. Upon arrival, unwind in your newly updated hotel, set apart from the busy atmosphere of midtown Manhattan, yet conveniently close to attractions like Battery Park, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, and the National Museum of the American Indian. Join us this evening for a welcome cocktail reception at the hotel, then head over to One World Observatory for our special welcome dinner. The skyscraper is a significant landmark in New York City, the tallest building in the Western Hemispher with a spire reaches a total height of 1,776 feet - notable as the height is in deference to the year when the Declaration of Independence was signed. You'll enjoy priority access to ascend 103 floors for a self-guided tour of the city's panoramic, 360-degree views. As the city that never sleeps is illuminated by the sparkling lights below, dine with your fellow travelers at One DINE, the observatory's sophisticated restaurant on the 101st floor. Return to your hotel later, a short distance away, later in the evening.

As you leave New York this morning, enjoy its iconic skyline and views of the Statue of Liberty as you head for Valley Forge Historic Park in Pennsylvania. Approximately 12,000 Continental Army troops, under George Washington's command were encamped at Valley Forge from December 19, 1777 to June 19, 1778; the site is considered to be the birthplace of the American Army. You'll learn about the blue book - which is the professional military training written by Baron F. Von Steuben - and see the tent where George Washington lived during this term. Lunch today provides an opportunity to do some time traveling and dine in the company of revolutionaries in a building that has stood since 1746 at Black Powder Tavern (which gets its name from the munitions stash kept here for use by the Continental Army). After lunch, make your way to Philadelphia, a city steeped in colonial history. You'll meet a local guide for a sightseeing tour that takes you through the historic district, lined with cobbled streets and 18th-century townhouses, and prominent sites such as the Betsy Ross House, the cobblestone streets of Elfreth's Alley, and Independence Mall. Known as America's Most Historic Square Mile, you'll be spending most of the day tomorrow exploring the highlights of Independence Mall. Settle in to your hotel this evening, comfortably nestled in charming Rittenhouse Square, and enjoy dinner at leisure at the hotel.

The Pennsylvania Amish in Lancaster are America's oldest Amish settlement (established in the early 18th century by Amish immigrants seeking religious freedom and a new life away from persecution in Europe); thousands still live today in a centuries-old lifestyle. Travel through rolling Pennsylvania farmland to Lancaster County for a guided tour that reveals the cultural traditions of the Amish - step back in time to when life was at a slower pace, where horse and buggy are the main transportation and windmills line the landscape. You'll have a guided tour of the countryside and a visit to a farm and to go inside a house to understand how the Amish live day by day powered by nature. Lunch today is at Miller's Smorgasbord restaurant; the connection between the smorgasbord and the Amish lies primarily in the influence of Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch culinary traditions on the smorgasbord concept in the United States. Originally a Swedish feast featuring a variety of hot and cold dishes laid out buffet style, the smorgasbord was adapted in areas like Lancaster County, where it merged with the local Amish and Pennsylvania Dutch tradition of serving hearty, family-style meals. The smorgasbord often features an abundance of home-cooked dishes including various meats, cheeses, salads, and desserts, reflecting the Amish values of community and hospitality, showcasing the simplicity and wholesomeness of Amish cooking - bringing a taste of Amish life to a broader market. This afternoon, continue on to Gettysburg - where tonight's dinner is truly special. Nearly 400 years of history surround you at a special farm-to-table dinner at historic Mansion House 1757. Located just outside of Gettysburg, it is steeped in historical significance. Originally built in 1757, this storied establishment began as a tavern and inn for travelers - and over the centuries, it has witnessed a number of significant events, notably the retreat of Confederate troops following the Battle of Gettysburg. Today, the restaurant combines its rich historical backdrop with modern culinary excellence, offering a dining experience in a setting that evokes the charm and rusticity of its early American roots. Chef George Keeney, a Culinary Institute of America alumnus, enhances this historic ambiance with his expertly crafted menus, emphasizing local ingredients and traditional techniques.

Begin your day in Charlottesville with a visit to author, statesman, scientist and third US President Thomas Jefferson's beloved Monticello, the hilltop house he designed on the principles of Renaissance architect Andrea Palladio. As you explore the house, plantation and grounds, you'll observe that the realities of plantation life did not always fit comfortably with the founding father's principles of equality and liberty. After lunch, see the University of Virginia's landmark Rotunda and Grounds, described by its designer Thomas Jefferson as an academical village. In addition to its historic sights, this area of Virginia is renowned for its locally produced wines. Thomas Jefferson is often celebrated as an early advocate for grape growing and wine production in America. Although he was not the originator of wineries, his enthusiastic promotion of viticulture and the science and study of all aspects of wine and winemaking has left a lasting impact on the region. Today, the Charlottesville area boasts more than 40 wineries, highlighting its growth and continued evolution as a prominent wine region - a testament to the area's rich history and commitment to quality and innovation in wine production. Charlottesville - along with the Monticello American Viticultural Area (AVA) - was honored as the 2023 Wine Region of the Year by Wine Enthusiast in their Wine Star Awards. Visit a winery for a tasting, and return to your hotel late afternoon for an evening free to spend as you please.

Today, you have the entire day at your leisure to delve into the rich history of Colonial Williamsburg, where you can explore the beautifully restored buildings, interact with costumed interpreters, and immerse yourself in the daily life of a bygone era as you wish. Restored to its 18th-century glory and inhabited by interpreters in period dress living its 18th-century lifestyle, discover life in days gone by as you step back in time to encounter local residents, from artisans and tradespeople to militiamen and ordinary citizens. Visit authentically restored buildings such as the Governor's Palace, Raleigh Tavern, Bruton Parish Church, and other places including Colonial homes, with activities and demonstrations throughout the day. If you wish, you have a variety of activities to choose from: you can browse through unique shops, visit informative museums that detail early American life, stroll through the historically restored town - or just unwind in the beautifully maintained green spaces and gardens that provide peaceful spots for relaxation.

First up today, a Tauck Exclusive - early admission to the Rotunda of the National Archives for a private viewing of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, with welcome comments by a National Archives insider. On a visit to the Public Vaults, you'll have the unique opportunity to connect directly with the United States' historical narrative through original documents and artifacts. These vaults house an impressive collection, occasionally home to the Emancipation Proclamation and original copies of the U.S. Constitution; a fascinating glimpse into some of the nation's most significant historical documents. Your afternoon is free; join us to discover more of Washington D.C.'s sights by day and delve into the history of this French-inspired city, strategically established halfway between the northern and southern states. If you wish, you can visit the many free museums in the city including the 17+ Smithsonian Museums (and the National Zoo); go to Capitol Hill to visit the US Capitol; go up the Washington Monument; try Ben's Chili Bowl - an iconic restaurant in Washington, D.C., known for its rich history and classic American fare (a beloved gathering place, attracting visitors from around the world) - just a few of the places you might explore. Departures in March and April coincide with the renowned Cherry Blossom Festival, an annual event celebrating the springtime blooming of cherry blossoms. The blossoms can be spotted enhancing parks and streets throughout the capital, offering a stunning natural spectacle that transforms the city into a springtime canvas of pink and white hues. Tonight, a memorable week concludes with a farewell reception and dinner at the inimitable Willard.