One of the perks of living in the Baltimore area is the proximity to Washington DC, especially when it comes to school field trips. Washington DC has several historic attractions along with beautiful scenery and architecture throughout the city. Here’s a closer look at why your school should consider taking a Washington DC school trip, and some tips to help you plan the trip.
Planning A Washington DC School Trip Itinerary
Keep in mind that planning DC field trips can become expensive. While you’ll likely receive free admission to different government owned attractions, you are still responsible for your group’s hotel accommodations, as well as food and transportation.
The National Mall is one of the premier destinations in Washington DC. The National Mall runs from Capitol Hill to the Lincoln Memorial. While traveling through the National Mall, you can visit The National Archives, Washington Monument, and National Air and Space Museum. The Library of Congress, Ford’s Theater, and The International Spy Museum are also around the city.
Popular Washington DC School Field Trip Ideas
US Capitol
The US Capitol hosts several important pieces of American art. The US Capitol has become a signature piece of American democracy. The US Capitol Visitor Center gives you the opportunity to learn about The Senate, House of Representatives, and overall history of American democracy. Featured exhibits at The US Capitol include The Women’s Suffrage Banners and Lincoln Table.
Supreme Court
You are welcome to tour the first two floors in The Supreme Court. Sign up for a 30 minute tour that outlines the judicial functions of the court, the history of the building, and the architecture of different courtrooms. You can view portraits of former Supreme Court justices. You also have the option of participating in different courtroom lectures and exhibitions.
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most powerful landmarks in Washington DC. The monument features a large sculpture of President Abraham Lincoln, along with the inscriptions of his most famous speeches. The Lincoln Memorial was also the site of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr’s famous “I Have A Dream” speech.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum has one of the World’s largest collections of aviation and space artifacts. The museum will provide students with a thorough look at the history of human flight. The National Air and Space Museum holds over 50,000 artifacts, including rockets, uniforms, engines, documents, and spacesuits.
Mount Vernon
Located near Alexandria, Virginia, Mount Vernon is the estate of President George Washington. Mount Vernon gives visitors a look at the origins of United States democracy, as well as plantation life during that time period. You can tour George Washington’s Distillery and Gristmill, blacksmith shop, and spinning house.
Changing Of The Guard Ceremony
The Changing of The Guard Ceremony at Arlington National Cemetery is a tribute to veterans who served the country. As part of the Ceremony, the guard is changed at The Tomb of The Unknowns every hour from October to March and every half hour from April to September. Tomb Guard Sentinels watch over The Tomb of The Unknowns 24 hours a day regardless of the weather conditions.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum allows tourists to learn more information about the Holocaust. Visitors are encouraged to exercise human dignity and prevent genocide. The American Witness exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to listen to the experiences of people who witnessed the impact of The Holocaust.
The White House
While you are welcome to view the historic residence outside through the black gates, setting up an inside tour will allow you to visit The President’s office. You can also visit several public rooms.
Choose A Charter Bus For Your DC Field Trips
While you are organizing these details and ideas, don’t forget the transportation! Choose a charter bus for your field trip to help you travel around DC easily and affordably. A charter bus will help ensure that you enjoy a smooth and stress free school trip.