America’s 250th: Washington, DC in Bloom – April 5 – 11, 2026
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Overview
2026 marks the the semiquincentennial birthday of the United States. OregonWest Excursions is excited to announce the first of our tours honoring the patriotism, courage and sacrifice of our founding fathers and revolutionaries! On this tour we will be exploring the incredible monuments to our shared history, the world-renowned museums our country has created in its capitol and the home of the father of the country – George Washington. This tour will celebrate the beauty of our capitol city as well as the Potomac River with a dinner cruise and a cruise to Mt. Vernon. Come join us as we learn and enjoy the history of our first 250 years!
What to Expect on this Tour:
Day 1 –April 5, 2026 – Arrive in Washington DC
We’re off to the nation’s capital! After an early morning departure from Oregon and a cross-country flight, we arrive in Washington, DC just in time for a relaxing check-in at our ideally located hotel on Capitol Hill. Enjoy a welcome dinner this evening and settle in for an inspiring week of American history and heritage. (D)
Day 2 – April 6, 2026 – Spies and the US Capitol
Our first full day begins at the fascinating International Spy Museum—an interactive experience that reveals the shadowy world of espionage. Then, walk the hallowed halls of the U.S. Capitol during a guided tour. After lunch, marvel at the breathtaking architecture and literary treasures of the Library of Congress. Enjoy some downtime before dinner at a favorite local establishment near the Capitol. (B, L, D)
Day 3 – April 7, 2026 – Cruise the Potomac to Mt. Vernon
This morning we cruise the Potomac River to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s riverside estate. Stroll the stately grounds, tour the mansion, and reflect on the life of our nation’s first president. After lunch on-site, we return to the city for an evening of elegance with dinner at a historic restaurant —once frequented by presidents and dignitaries. (B, L, D)
Day 4 – April 8, 2026 – Old Town Alexandria
Enjoy a leisurely morning to explore at your own pace before we venture across the Potomac to picturesque Old Town Alexandria. We’ll dine dockside for lunch, then visit the beautifully preserved Carlyle House. Choose to relax, shop, or join an optional walking tour through this colonial gem. Dinner this evening is at a beloved local favorite in the heart of historic King Street. (B, L, D)
Day 5 – April 9, 2026 – Air & Space & the Monuments at Night
Today begins with a visit to the Smithsonian’s newly reimagined National Air & Space Museum—home to pioneering aircraft and space artifacts. We’ll enjoy lunch at the classic Georgetown favorite, Filomena’s Ristorante, before returning to the hotel for a restful afternoon. This evening, set off on a stunning illuminated monuments tour, where DC’s iconic memorials glow with meaning during this special anniversary year. (B, L)
Day 6 – April 10, 2026 Arlington by Trolley & Ford’s Theater
We begin with a narrated trolley tour through Arlington National Cemetery—final resting place of America’s heroes. Following brunch, we explore the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History before heading to Ford’s Theatre, where Abraham Lincoln’s legacy lives on. Dinner tonight is at Southern inspired restaurant, blending Southern charm with rich flavors in a stylish downtown setting. (B, L, D)
Day 7 – April 11, 2026 Washington Monument & US History
On our final morning, we visit the soaring Washington Monument and then tour the National Museum of American History—home to national treasures like the Star-Spangled Banner and presidential artifacts. After a final lunch together, we bid farewell to the capital and begin our journey home, hearts full from a powerful and patriotic week. (B, L)