Philadelphia, Washington DC & Amish Country, 2-Days from NYC

Experience a whirlwind tour of historic and cultural treasures in just two days. For $350, you’ll travel from New York City in style, with transportation, hotel accommodations, and breakfast included. Your itinerary covers iconic landmarks like the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, Arlington Cemetery, the Capitol, and the White House, with stops in Amish Country for a taste of simpler life. Personal guides like Moses and Peter are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience both educational and engaging.

What we really appreciate are the comfortable, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicles that make the long drives manageable, and the well-organized itinerary that balances sightseeing with authentic experiences. On the flip side, the trip can feel a bit rushed, especially if you’re someone who loves to linger at each site. This tour suits travelers who want a broad overview of these highlights without the hassle of planning, but who are also prepared for a busy pace.

All in all, this tour is perfect for history buffs, first-time visitors to the East Coast, or families eager to see the essentials in a short timeframe. If you’re looking for an accessible, value-packed experience that combines city landmarks with rural charm, this is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering Philadelphia, Amish Country, and Washington DC in just two days.
• Expert guides who bring history and local life to life, making every stop memorable.
• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi on the bus, making long drives easier.
• Authentic Amish experience with a buggy ride and handmade crafts.
• Hotel, breakfast, and transportation included, offering convenience and value.
• Busy schedule means some sites are visited quickly; suitable for active travelers.

A Deep Dive into the 2-Day Experience

Traveling in style and comfort from NYC

Starting bright and early at 6:30 am from 330 W 42nd St, you’ll hop into a luxurious, climate-controlled coach or van, depending on group size. With Wi-Fi on board, you can catch up on emails or scroll through your photos during the journey. This setup means you’re not just enduring a long drive—you’re making the most of it, with a comfortable space to relax or plan the next part of your trip.

First stop: Philadelphia’s historic core

Upon arrival in Philadelphia, the Liberty Bell Center is the first highlight. This symbol of American independence is a must-see, and you can expect to spend about 30 minutes here. Reviewers like Helen found this a “great way to see Philadelphia in 2 days,” emphasizing the guide’s knowledge, which really enhances the experience. Nearby, you’ll walk through Congress Hall and visit Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest inhabited street in America, which offers a tangible sense of early American life.

The city tour continues with a panoramic view of Philadelphia’s skyline, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, and the Rocky Statue and Steps—famous from the movies but equally impressive in real life. Many visitors, like Niranjan, praise the “punctuality” and “comfortable coach,” making the city’s highlights easy to access.

Amish Country: a peaceful contrast

Next, the tour takes you “away from the hustle” to Lancaster, Pennsylvania. Here, the highlight is a buggy ride through Amish farmland. This authentic experience offers a glimpse into a lifestyle that forgoes modern technology—no electricity, telephones, or appliances. It’s a chance to step into a slower pace and observe a community committed to tradition.

Shoppers love browsing the handmade crafts in the Amish marketplace, where the quality and authenticity are palpable. One traveler, Farrah, appreciated how guides like Peter made the experience clear and friendly, even when managing large, multilingual groups. Keep in mind that the Amish portion may change depending on the season or weather, so don’t be too surprised if certain activities are adjusted.

Evening arrival in Washington DC

By late afternoon, after exploring Amish Country, you’ll head eastward to the nation’s capital. The hotel stay is at a 3-star property, praised for its comfort and cleanliness. For many, this overnight stay allows some rest before a packed second day.

Day Two: The Capital’s Most Potent Symbols and Smithsonian Highlights

Morning: Jefferson Memorial and Arlington

Your second day begins with a visit to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, located by the Tidal Basin and surrounded by cherry blossom trees. The peaceful setting makes for a lovely photo stop, and the guide will share insights into Jefferson’s role in shaping America. Reviews like Niranjan’s mention how these visits are “well-paced” and “enriching.”

Next, you’ll step into Arlington National Cemetery. The Changing of the Guard and Kennedy family gravesite are highlights. Note that security measures mean bringing a U.S. ID or passport is required for entry—an important consideration for international travelers or those not carrying ID.

Midday: Smithsonian Museums and Monuments

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum is a favorite among visitors, thanks to exhibits like the Wright Brothers’ Flyer and Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis. Many, including Jaimon and Jason, praise the “comfortable bus” and “excellent guides” for making these busy sites accessible.

While the Air and Space Museum is temporarily closed, the Natural History Museum fills the gap, showcasing dinosaur fossils including T-Rex and Triceratops. This museum is very popular, and reviewers note that it “requires about 1 hour 15 minutes,” so plan accordingly.

Afternoon: Capitol Hill, White House, and Memorials

Next, you’ll visit the U.S. Capitol, the seat of Congress and a symbol of American democracy. From there, a quick photo stop at the White House allows you to see the home of the President. The guides generally manage time well, but some reviewers suggest that the morning would be better for the White House, when visitors might be less tired.

The tour rounds out with visits to the Lincoln, Vietnam, Korea, and Martin Luther King Jr. memorials. Many visitors like Marlon and Claudia, are impressed with the “timing” and “entertainment” provided by the guides, making the busy schedule enjoyable, rather than overwhelming.

Return to NYC

By late afternoon, you’ll start your journey back, with an estimated arrival in New York in the evening. The overall experience offers a lot of ground covered, and reviews often mention the “value for money,” especially considering the included hotel, breakfast, and transportation.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This 2-day trip is ideal for first-timers or busy travelers who want a broad taste of American history, politics, and rural life without the hassle of organizing multiple visits. The expert guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, making the sites come alive, especially with stories and context that you might miss on your own.

It’s also well-suited for families or groups eager to experience iconic landmarks and a taste of Amish culture in a short, organized format. Keep in mind, the schedule is packed, so if you prefer to linger at each site or take your time, this might feel a bit rushed.

The modern, Wi-Fi-equipped transportation and hotel stay add convenience and comfort, but travelers should be ready for a full, sometimes hectic, itinerary. If you value knowledgeable guides, good value, and a chance to see key sights efficiently, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this tour from New York City offers an excellent way to check off some of America’s most famous landmarks and cultural experiences in just two days. The combination of city highlights, historic sites, and Amish country provides a balanced perspective that appeals to many types of travelers.

The value is evident when you consider everything included—the transportation, hotel, breakfast, and guided visits—especially for those who don’t want to spend days planning their own itinerary. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge make these visits more meaningful than simply ticking off photos.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or want detailed time at each site, you might find this trip too compressed. Still, for a first-time visitor or someone eager for a broad overview, it’s a solid, well-organized option.

Ultimately, this experience is best suited for active, curious travelers who enjoy learning on the go and appreciate the convenience of a guided, all-inclusive package. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see the essence of Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Amish Country without staying multiple nights or navigating complex logistics on their own.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
No, hotel pickup is not available. You will need to make your own way to the starting point at 330 W 42nd St. in New York City.

Is parking available at the meeting point?
Yes, there is a parking lot nearby, but parking rates apply. It’s recommended to use public transportation or rideshare services.

What type of vehicle is used for the tour?
Depending on group size, you’ll travel in either a comfortable air-conditioned bus or van. The vehicles are equipped with Wi-Fi for your convenience.

Is Wi-Fi available during the entire tour?
Wi-Fi is only on the full-size coaches, not on smaller vans, and is best suited for browsing or light use.

Can children or infants join the tour?
Children under 2 travel free as lap children with a paid adult. It’s helpful to specify if you’re bringing an infant or stroller in the booking notes.

What do I need to bring for Arlington Cemetery?
A U.S. passport or ID is required to enter; dress appropriately for the weather and bring any personal items, but note that security measures are strict.

To sum it up, this two-day tour blends history, politics, and rural Americana into a manageable, well-organized package. It’s best for those wanting a rundown with knowledgeable guides, all at a fair price. If you’re prepared for a busy schedule and eager to see the highlights—plus enjoy a touch of Amish simplicity—this trip offers excellent value and a memorable experience.