Make your way to the Arlington National Cemetery, where this tour begins, and start by visiting the site’s famous tombs, including those of President John F. Kennedy, General William Sheridan, boxer Joe Louis, and Audie Murphy, one of the most decorated soldiers in American history.
See memorials to the space shuttles Colombia and Challenger, then pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknowns, where you may be able to watch a Changing of the Guard ceremony. Visit the former home of Robert E. Lee, and hear the story of how his Arlington house grew into one of the country’s largest national cemeteries.
Break for lunch, then travel to the National Museum of American History on the National Mall. Trace the story of the United State from George Washington’s Revolutionary sword through the ‘Star Spangled Banner,’ and see the Greensboro lunch counter that helped launch the Civil Rights Movement on a national stage. Take in a collection of ‘First Ladies’ gowns, then explore the golden age of Hollywood in an exhibit that includes Dorothy’s ruby red slippers from the Wizard of Oz. This tour concludes at the National Museum of American history, close to National Mall attractions and sites.