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Washington, D.C.

Discover Washington, D.C.: The Best of the Capital

Program No. 2833RJ
Discover D.C. through expert-led explorations of Capitol Hill, the memorials and topical issues. Plus, enjoy visits to historical institutions and a live show at a local theater!

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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Mar 30 - Apr 4, 2025
Starting at
2,449
Apr 6 - Apr 11, 2025
Starting at
2,449
Apr 20 - Apr 25, 2025
Starting at
2,449
Filling Fast!
Apr 27 - May 2, 2025
Starting at
2,449
May 4 - May 9, 2025
Starting at
2,449
May 18 - May 23, 2025
Starting at
2,449
Sep 7 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
2,449
Sep 21 - Sep 26, 2025
Starting at
2,449
Oct 12 - Oct 17, 2025
Starting at
2,449
Oct 26 - Oct 31, 2025
Starting at
2,449
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Mar 30 - Apr 4, 2025
Starting at
3,089
Apr 6 - Apr 11, 2025
Starting at
3,089
Apr 20 - Apr 25, 2025
Starting at
3,089
Filling Fast!
Apr 27 - May 2, 2025
Starting at
3,089
May 4 - May 9, 2025
Starting at
3,089
May 18 - May 23, 2025
Starting at
3,089
Sep 7 - Sep 12, 2025
Starting at
3,089
Sep 21 - Sep 26, 2025
Starting at
3,089
Oct 12 - Oct 17, 2025
Starting at
3,089
Oct 26 - Oct 31, 2025
Starting at
3,089
This date is available to book as a private experience for your group!

At a Glance

Experience the invigorating environment of America’s capital city as knowledgeable instructors immerse you in a wide-ranging exploration of Washington D.C.’s iconic memorials, eclectic neighborhoods and topical conversations. During lectures with D.C. experts, discuss policy issues, explore vital history, and learn about famous figures throughout the capital. Delight in an introduction to Washington’s vibrant cultural institutions as you venture into the Smithsonian Museums, Library of Congress, Kennedy Center, National Cathedral and attend a live performance at a local theater.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking 1-4 miles per day, including to/from motor coaches; some standing.
Small Group
Small Group
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

  • Gain historical insights while visiting Washington’s most treasured monuments and its newest memorials.
  • Explore America’s unique political system with expert lectures and visits to the U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress and the White House.
  • Go behind the scenes at the Kennedy Center and learn about the many extraordinary gifts from the governments of more than 60 countries that make this a truly international destination.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Profile Image
Ann McClellan
Ann McClellan is the author of 'The Cherry Blossom Festival: Sakura Celebration' and 'Cherry Blossoms, The Official Book of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.' She has held executive positions at the Smithsonian Institution, World Wildlife Fund, American Lung Association, American Association of Museums, and the George Washington University Law School. She received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold & Silver Rays from the Government of Japan for her work to improve Americans' understanding of Japanese culture and society.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Ann McClellan
Ann McClellan View biography
Ann McClellan is the author of 'The Cherry Blossom Festival: Sakura Celebration' and 'Cherry Blossoms, The Official Book of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.' She has held executive positions at the Smithsonian Institution, World Wildlife Fund, American Lung Association, American Association of Museums, and the George Washington University Law School. She received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold & Silver Rays from the Government of Japan for her work to improve Americans' understanding of Japanese culture and society.
Profile Image of Lynde Vespoli
Lynde Vespoli View biography
Lynde Vespoli has been leading groups since 2006 and has worked for Road Scholar since 2012. She has certificates in travel and tourism, as well as hospitality and tourism management. A native Midwesterner, she has led programs in that region as well as Washington, D.C., New York, Canada, Cuba, and Italy. In her free time, Lynde enjoys traveling with her family and spoiling her granddaughters.
Profile Image of Raymond Batvinis
Raymond Batvinis View biography
Dr. Raymond J. Batvinis is the Historian for the Society of Former Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. For 25 years, he was a Special FBI Agent concentrating on counterintelligence and counterterrorism. Dr. Batvinis operates fbistudies.com, a website focused on the FBI. In addition to authoring scholarly articles, he has contributed to the Oxford History of Intelligence and has produced two books on the history of the FBI’s counterintelligence program: "The Origins of FBI Counterintelligence" and "Hoover’s Secret War Against Axis Spies."
Profile Image of Donald Daniel
Donald Daniel View biography
Donald C.F. Daniel is Professor Emeritus at Georgetown University and Milton E. Miles Professor Emeritus at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. He was Special Assistant to the Chairman, US Intelligence Council in Washington; Ford Foundation Research Fellow at the Brookings Institution in Washington; Research Associate at the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London; researcher-in-residence for the UN Institute for Disarmament Research in Geneva; and Associate Fellow at the Swedish National Defense College, Stockholm. He has directed political-military simulations involving participants worldwide.
Profile Image of Gautham Rao
Gautham Rao View biography
Gautham Rao, Associate Professor of History at American University, is Editor-in-Chief of “Law and History Review.” He did his undergraduate and graduate work at the University of Chicago and has been a fellow at the New York University School of Law and the University of Wisconsin Law School. His first book was “National Duties: Custom Houses and the Making of the American State” with the University of Chicago Press. His current book is “Slavery's Leviathan: Fugitive Slaves and the Making of the American Police State.”
Profile Image of Eric Arnesen
Eric Arnesen View biography
Eric Arnesen is the Teamsters Professor of History at George Washington University. He earned his B.A. from Wesleyan University and an M.A. in African-American Studies and a Ph.D. in history from Yale University. A specialist in the history of race, labor, politics, and civil rights, he has written two award-winning books: “Brotherhoods of Color: Black Railroad Workers and the Struggle for Equality” (2001) and “Waterfront Workers of New Orleans: Race, Class, and Politics, 1863-1923” (1991). He has written, edited, or co-edited five other books.
Profile Image of Ella Schiralli
Ella Schiralli View biography
Ella Schiralli is a certified D.C. group leader with a passion for sharing the culture, history, and modern vibrancy of our nation’s capital. She graduated from George Washington University with a B.B.A. and E.M.B.A. Ella values diversity and is passionate about leadership. She has had the opportunity to work and volunteer in organizations that range from advanced homeland security solutions and public policy advocacy, to women’s military achievements, the performing arts, and children’s advocacy.
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Program
At a Glance
Duration
6 days
Program Begins
Virginia
Program Concludes
Virginia
Group Type
Small Group
Meals
12 | 5B | 3L | 4D |
Activity Level
Experience the invigorating environment of America’s capital city as knowledgeable instructors immerse you in a wide-ranging exploration of Washington D.C.’s iconic memorials, eclectic neighborhoods and topical conversations. During lectures with D.C. experts, discuss policy issues, explore vital history, and learn about famous figures throughout the capital. Delight in an introduction to Washington’s vibrant cultural institutions as you venture into the Smithsonian Museums, Library of Congress, Kennedy Center, National Cathedral and attend a live performance at a local theater.)
Best of all, you'll...
  • Gain historical insights while visiting Washington’s most treasured monuments and its newest memorials.
  • Explore America’s unique political system with expert lectures and visits to the U.S. Capitol, Library of Congress and the White House.
  • Go behind the scenes at the Kennedy Center and learn about the many extraordinary gifts from the governments of more than 60 countries that make this a truly international destination.
Featured Expert
Profile Image
Ann McClellan
Ann McClellan is the author of 'The Cherry Blossom Festival: Sakura Celebration' and 'Cherry Blossoms, The Official Book of the National Cherry Blossom Festival.' She has held executive positions at the Smithsonian Institution, World Wildlife Fund, American Lung Association, American Association of Museums, and the George Washington University Law School. She received the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold & Silver Rays from the Government of Japan for her work to improve Americans' understanding of Japanese culture and society.
Please Note:
This expert may not be available for every date of the program
Profile Image of Lynde Vespoli
Lynde Vespoli
Lynde Vespoli has been leading groups since 2006 and has worked for Road Scholar since 2012. She has certificates in travel and tourism, as well as hospitality and tourism management. A native Midwesterner, she has led programs in that region as well as Washington, D.C., New York, Canada, Cuba, and Italy. In her free time, Lynde enjoys traveling with her family and spoiling her granddaughters.
Profile Image of Gautham Rao
Gautham Rao
Gautham Rao, Associate Professor of History at American University, is Editor-in-Chief of “Law and History Review.” He did his undergraduate and graduate work at the University of Chicago and has been a fellow at the New York University School of Law and the University of Wisconsin Law School. His first book was “National Duties: Custom Houses and the Making of the American State” with the University of Chicago Press. His current book is “Slavery's Leviathan: Fugitive Slaves and the Making of the American Police State.”
Profile Image of Eric Arnesen
Eric Arnesen
Eric Arnesen is the Teamsters Professor of History at George Washington University. He earned his B.A. from Wesleyan University and an M.A. in African-American Studies and a Ph.D. in history from Yale University. A specialist in the history of race, labor, politics, and civil rights, he has written two award-winning books: “Brotherhoods of Color: Black Railroad Workers and the Struggle for Equality” (2001) and “Waterfront Workers of New Orleans: Race, Class, and Politics, 1863-1923” (1991). He has written, edited, or co-edited five other books.
Profile Image of Ella Schiralli
Ella Schiralli
Ella Schiralli is a certified D.C. group leader with a passion for sharing the culture, history, and modern vibrancy of our nation’s capital. She graduated from George Washington University with a B.B.A. and E.M.B.A. Ella values diversity and is passionate about leadership. She has had the opportunity to work and volunteer in organizations that range from advanced homeland security solutions and public policy advocacy, to women’s military achievements, the performing arts, and children’s advocacy.
Activity Level
Keep the Pace
Walking 1-4 miles per day, including to/from motor coaches; some standing.
Small Group (13 to 24)
Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.
Suggested Reading List
View Full List (3 Books)
You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
HAVE QUESTIONS?
Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?
We can help. Give us a call, and we can answer all of your questions!
Call 800-454-5768
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
6 days
5 nights
What's Included
12 meals | 5B | 3L | 4D |
4 expert-led lectures
11 expert-led field trips
1 performance
An experienced Group Leader
5 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
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Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 4:00 p.m. Remember to bring your nametag (sent previously).
Afternoon:
Program Registration: 4:00-5:00 p.m. After you have your room assignment, join us at the Road Scholar table to register with the program staff, get any updated information, and confirm the time and location of the Orientation session. If you arrive late, please locate your Group Leader and let them know you have arrived. Your program materials will be sent to you a few days before the program, digitally, through your roadscholar.org account. This includes your program itinerary, any related handouts, and restaurant/free time suggestions. Please plan to print them out and bring along to the program, utilize the hotel's business center to access them, or view them on your own personal electronic device. Orientation: 5:00 p.m. The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. Periods in the schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At the hotel.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow participants, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead.
Activity Note
Walking up to 4 miles on paved surfaces and tiled floors. Getting on/off a motorcoach.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will hear from a local expert and author on Washington, D.C.’s most popular floral attraction, the cherry blossoms. We will hear about the history of the blossoms, a gift and a sign of peace between the U.S. and Japan. We will then board our motorcoach with our expert and head out to the Tidal Basin. We will see some of D.C.’s most well-known spots for Japanese horticulture, and our expert will enlighten us on the history of diplomatic efforts of sharing flora and fauna across nations.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, we will spend more time at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts on the banks of the Potomac River. The Kennedy Center annually presents some 3,000 events in all areas of the performing arts for an audience of more than 2 million people. The genesis of a national cultural center goes back to 1958. The finished complex was named as a living memorial to President Kennedy, its greatest advocate, after his death in 1963. We will have an expert-led exploration, learn how our national cultural center developed, and see an interactive exhibit on the life and presidency of John F. Kennedy. Next, we will go for a motorcoach exploration through our nation’s capital with expert commentary on-board as we drive through and learn about the history of “Embassy Row”— in and around a stretch of Massachusetts Avenue — and more. There are more than 170 foreign embassies in Washington.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
After reboarding the motorcoach, we will visit the exterior of the White House and learn about the executive mansion and its surrounding neighborhood from the Group Leader or a local expert. (Please note, interior White House tours must be scheduled personally through your Member of Congress. Requests must be made no less than 21 days prior to arrival.)
Activity Note
Getting on/off a motorcoach. Walking about 3 miles, approximately 1 hour at Hillwood Estates; chairs/benches available throughout; handrails and elevator in mansion.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will start the day with a lecture from a local expert; possible topics include the media, international relations, current issues and the judiciary. We will then board the motorcoach and head out for a field trip to the Hillwood Estates. On a docent-led exploration, we will get an opportunity to see the acres of gardens meticulously maintained along with private access to the Estate & Museum's history.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
Heading back out on the motorcoach, we’ll ride to Washington National Cathedral for an expert-led field trip. We will see Woodrow Wilson's Tomb, marvel at the ironwork, and learn the history behind the country’s “National House of Prayer.” Pierre L’Enfant, the architect President George Washington commissioned in 1791 to create a master plan for the nation’s capital, envisioned it. The cathedral’s “birth certificate” authorizing construction was signed in 1893, but the cornerstone was not laid until 1907. It was officially completed in 1990 and is recognized today as one of the great achievements of ecclesiastical architecture. Following our visit, we will make our way over to what is locally known as the Big 3. We’ll explore Abraham Lincoln's life, principles and Civil War presidency at the Lincoln Memorial on the west end of the National Mall. We will also examine America's Cold War history through the prism of the Korean War Veterans Memorial and reflect on the tragic consequences of U.S. involvement in Southeast Asia at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant.
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Short walk to DC Metro subway; in the event escalators are out of service, there will be 2-3 flights of stairs to climb. Walking about 1.5 miles throughout the day. Extra security screening is in place at the U.S. Capitol. The Group Leader will advise what can and cannot be brought into the building prior to our field trip. Capitol visit involves lots of standing on marble floors for about 2 hours with limited seating. Please wear comfortable shoes this day.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
To begin our day, we will walk from the hotel to the Metro subway and head to the United States Capitol Visitor Center where we’ll see a short film that traces the development of our democracy and introduces the amazing building that houses our Congress: the House of Representatives and the Senate. We’ll see the Crypt, Statuary Hall, and the Rotunda with a representative from the U.S. Capitol Historical Society. “The Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. The Senate and the House of Representatives have met here for more than two centuries. Begun in 1793, the Capitol has been built, burnt, rebuilt, extended, and restored; today, it stands as a monument not only to its builders but also to the American people and their government.” (https://www.visitthecapitol.gov/) . Next, walk to the Library of Congress (LOC) for a self-led exploration; detailed brochures are available from Information Desks in the Thomas Jefferson Building. The LOC is America’s oldest federal cultural institution, established in 1800 by an Act of Congress. When the British burned the original collection housed in the Capitol building in 1814, Thomas Jefferson replaced it with his own personal library. The LOC has grown to become the largest library in the world with millions of books, recordings, photographs, maps, manuscripts, and other resources. The main Reading Room is one of the most magnificent spaces in Washington.
Lunch:
At a local café.
Afternoon:
At leisure.
Dinner:
Dinner is on your own this evening to explore and sample the city's numerous dining options. Your group leader will be happy to offer suggestions
Evening:
At leisure.
Activity Note
Short walk to DC Metro subway; in the event that escalators are out of service, there will be 2-3 flights of stairs to climb. Getting on/off a motorcoach to dinner, performance, and hotel in the evening. Walking and other activities during free time according to personal choice.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will start the day with a lecture from a local expert; possible topics include the media, international relations, current issues and the judiciary. Next, we will take the Metro downtown to Ford's Theater, still a working professional theater. We will explore Ford's Theater and experience One Destiny, a short performance that traces the events leading up to Lincoln's assassination on April 14th, 1865.
Lunch:
On your own. Eateries are available in the Smithsonian Museums.
Afternoon:
Free time. This period of time has been set aside for your personal independent exploration to see and do what interests you most at the Smithsonian Institution museums. Please refer to the list of Free Time Opportunities. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Please note that the period scheduled for free time is subject to change depending on local circumstances and opportunities for independent exploration.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant. Share favorite experiences and enjoy camaraderie with new Road Scholar friends during our farewell dinner.
Evening:
We will enjoy a performance at one of D.C.'s historic theaters on our final night in the nation's capital. Performance schedules and the particular theater location will be announced at a later date. Prepare for check-out and departure in the morning.
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 12:00 Noon.
Breakfast:
At the hotel.
Morning:
We will hear one last lecture this morning at our hotel, followed by closing remarks from our Group Leader. If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
12 Meals
5 Breakfasts
3 Lunches
4 Dinners
The following choices may be available when requested in advance: Vegetarian, Gluten Free
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
Oct 26, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
  • Oct 26, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
  • Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
  • Apr 06, 2025 - Apr 11, 2025
  • Apr 20, 2025 - Apr 25, 2025
  • Apr 27, 2025 - May 02, 2025
  • May 04, 2025 - May 09, 2025
  • May 18, 2025 - May 23, 2025
  • Sep 07, 2025 - Sep 12, 2025
  • Sep 21, 2025 - Sep 26, 2025
  • Oct 12, 2025 - Oct 17, 2025
  • Oct 26, 2025 - Oct 31, 2025
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
5 nights
Location: Arlington
Full service hotel located above Arlington's Crystal City metro subway station just three stops from National Mall where iconic memorials and Smithsonian Museums are located. Eclectic Crystal City neighborhood around hotel is home to a dozen locally owned ethnic eateries and national.
Participant Reviews
4.97
Based on 33 Reviews
Sort By:
Lucille – Class of 2015 | Iowa City, IA
This is a very worthwhile program and I learned a great deal about our nation’s capital city. I highly recommend this program.
— Review left October 18, 2024
Susan – Class of 2006 | Burlingame, CA
We had a great tour guide who knew her way around DC and added that personal touch that a local can do. Thanks, Ella. All the visiting speakers were interesting and knowledgeable, adding some historical depth to the program. And of course, the group was fantastic. Road Scholars are wonderful. We were of like mind in focus and exploration.
— Review left September 27, 2024
Patricia – Class of 2012 | Davis, CA
Our guide Ella Schiralli was fantastic . Her knowledge and enthusiasm made our trip fun, enlightening, and unforgettable. Thank you Ella! Trish.
— Review left September 18, 2024
This participant did not give a star rating.
David – Class of 2022 | Cerritos, CA
Excellent trip with excellent guide.
— Review left July 14, 2024
Kathleen | Canonsburg, PA
This was my first Roads Scholar tour, enjoyed it very much and will definitely be taking another tour with Roads. Pleasantly surprised and had a great time.
— Review left June 3, 2024
Carol Adamec – Class of 2024 | Winterville, NC
Road Scholar groups are safe, fun, and inspiring for those who love learning about the our nation, the world, and the value of meeting new people.
— Review left June 1, 2024
Ronald – Class of 2019 | Lakewood, WA
A delightful experience even if you have been to Washington D.C. before. Exemplifies the best of Road Scholar.
— Review left May 25, 2024
Arthur – Class of 2023 | WESTON, FL
This was my 1st Road Scholar trip and it greatly exceeding my expectations. I look forward to more programs and highly recommend this trip to Washington DC.
— Review left May 11, 2024
Kathleen – Class of 1997 | Ranchos de Taos, NM
If you are searching for an in-depth program about Washington D.C., our nation's capital city, this program has it all.
— Review left April 16, 2024
Suzanne – Class of 2017 | Barre, VT
Historic sites, museums, memorials, lectures, concerts...it's all here! A can't-miss Road Scholar tour!
— Review left April 14, 2024
Brian – Class of 2018 | Honolulu, HI
An excellent introduction to Washington, DC!
— Review left April 11, 2024
Josephine – Class of 2021 | Ocala, FL
Thank you for a great experience. Enjoyed the our leader, accommodations, the tours, the top notch instructors, the meals, and participants.
— Review left October 23, 2023
Bonnie | Lakeville, MN
The group experience reminded me that as Americans, we're more alike than different.
— Review left October 22, 2023
Janet – Class of 2003 | West Lafayette, IN
A great program if you are interested in learning and experiencing our Amazing Country, USA.
— Review left September 30, 2023
Suzan – Class of 2017 | San Diego, CA
This trip was a lifelong dream come true. I wish every middle or high school student had this opportunity.
— Review left September 19, 2023
Michelle – Class of 2023 | Chandler, AZ
This was my first trip with Road Scholar and it will not be my last. The group lead has an important job and she did it very well. Had a wonderful time and felt I received a good value for the price. Well done Road Scholar!
— Review left May 28, 2023
Murray – Class of 2023 | Los Alamitos, CA
The Road Scholar experience is well worth anyone's time and money. Our guide, Lynde Vespoli, was terrific! The guest speakers were knowledgeable and interesting. This was overall a wonderful experience.
— Review left May 2, 2023
Anthony – Class of 2016 | Pepperell, MA
There were many excellent aspects of this program. With some 'fine tuning' it ought to be good for first timers and experienced Washington visitors. Be aware the overall walking is a lot more than 1-2 miles each day.
— Review left April 30, 2023
Celeste – Class of 2021 | Peoria, IL
Great intro to DC highlights by
— Review left April 28, 2023
R Cheryl – Class of 2000 | Walla Walla, WA
The Discover Washington, D.C.: The Best of the Capital tour was exactly what I wanted--being someone who had never visited the area before. I saw so much and went so many places that I feel satisfied. It's a great tour for an overview of our Capitol.
— Review left April 17, 2023
Clifford – Class of 2019 | Gainesville, FL
The DC trip was an incredible experience.Tour leader, instructors, sites, monuments, tours, accommodations, food and attention to detail made this a very memorable trip.
— Review left April 16, 2023
Mary – Class of 2023 | Gig Harbor, WA
For first time visitors or for travelers who haven't been to Washington DC in a while, the Discover Washington DC: The Best of the Capital program is the perfect way to learn about and experience this amazing city and it's history.
— Review left April 16, 2023
Hildy – Class of 1998 | Santa Barbara, CA
At this point in our lives most of us have been to DC but you haven't experienced it until you attend a RS program completely devoted to the history behind the monuments. Informed and engaging speakers highlight historical happenings to make your educational visits to sights more meaningful. All-in-all US history 101 at a time when we all appreciate it.
— Review left October 10, 2022
Linda – Class of 2022 | Renton, WA
All I expected it to be. Fun group, wonderful tour guide, and comfortable accommodation. The presenters were informative with an easy to listen to style. Appreciated each site visited, the history, the democratic connections.
— Review left September 21, 2022
Bruce – Class of 2022 | Asheville, NC
This was a wonderful experience, both from an educational perspective and from an opportunity to meet many interesting people. This was very cost-effective as well. I very much admire this program.
— Review left September 17, 2022
Amber – Class of 2001 | Redlands, CA
An excellent program enhanced by the company of interesting and compatible life-long learners! It would be difficult to cover the variety of experiences and education in those few days on one's own.
— Review left September 17, 2022
This participant did not give a star rating.
Dorothea – Class of 2020 | Denver, CO
Great trip, great group leader. Negative: You should recommend people to bring their coffee cups instead of throwing away 2 or more plastic cups.
— Review left May 17, 2022
Suzie – Class of 2019 | Overgaard, AZ
This is an excellent program! Be prepared to do a lot of walking but what you will see and learn about DC is worth it all! They have great speakers and you see the most interesting sites and learn valuable history and "backstories." You will also be with other participants that are interested in learning and are from all over.
— Review left October 5, 2019
Monica – Class of 2019 | Searcy, AR
This was our first Road Scholar trip and we thoroughly enjoyed this! I wouldn’t have wanted to tour DC any other way. Our guides were so knowledgeable, informative and friendly. We will do another trip with Road Scholars.
— Review left June 16, 2019
Dorothy – Class of 2019 | Grayson, GA
Road Scholar is an excellent program for retirees who would like to "travel the world".
— Review left May 28, 2019
Firoz – Class of 2017 | Hawthorne, CA
This program covers Washington DC where there's a lot to see and learn in just 6 days. GREAT PROGRAM! Firoz
— Review left May 26, 2019
F Anthony | Oakland, CA
This is a comment about your questionnaire. While it was too long, it was very well designed. It is obvious you have done your questionnaire well due to excellent preparation and previous interviews. Pass this along to your researchers. (From a professor of research who has done more than 200 researched based studies.
— Review left May 17, 2019
Jane – Class of 2015 | East Hampton, NY
What a wonderful introduction to Washington DC! Our excellent guides were so knowledgable about a variety of sites including museums, memorials, and government agencies. It was a thoroughly inspiring, educational trip.
— Review left May 13, 2019





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