Cherry Blossom Festival

1st Day: This morning we head to our Nation’s Capital, stopping for lunch on your own en route. Upon arrival in Washington, we will de-board at the Smithsonian Institution, where the group is welcome to explore on their own. The Smithsonian Institute is the world’s largest museum complex with 19 museums. Some of the museums at The National Mall are: Air and Space Museum (currently requires timed-tickets which need to be reserved individually); American History Museum; Natural History Museum; American Indian Museum; National Gallery of Art; and more. After visiting the Smithsonians, and stopping for dinner en route, we will check into our home for the next two nights. Evening is free at the hotel.

2nd Day: After breakfast at the hotel, we will depart for the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC.  The festival celebrates spring, the gift of the cherry blossom trees, and the enduring friendship between the people of the United States and Japan. The Festival produces and coordinates daily events featuring diverse and creative programming promoting traditional, and contemporary arts and culture, natural beauty, and community spirit. The highlight of the event is the National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade®, one of the largest annual spectator events in Washington. The Parade takes place in downtown DC along historic Constitution Avenue. A two-hour, televised procession of original floats, giant character helium balloons, and other fun Parade fanfare. Marching bands, specialty units, youth choir members, and tap dancers are all part of this energy-filled spectacle. You are free today to sightsee as you wish. (Note: Grand Stand seating is available for the parade. Reservations and admission is each individual’s responsibility. You may stand along the route and there is no charge.) Have lunch during the festivities. We will stop for dinner (on your own) en route to the hotel (CB)

3rd Day: After breakfast this morning, we will visit Arlington National Cemetery, America’s largest national burial ground with more than 500 acres of landscaped hills. Explore the rich history found within the cemetery grounds on an interpretive bus tour. You will see the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial, President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, U.S. Coast Guard Memorial, U.S. Army Gen. John J. Pershing’s gravesite, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Arlington House (The Robert E. Lee Memorial). Also, witness the changing of the guards. Later this afternoon we will head for home, arriving approximately 8:30 PM. (CB)

Special Notice: Balance due 30 days prior to departure. Cancellation within 30 days of departure will result in payment forfeiture.