Washington, DC: Cherry Blossom Festival

Duration: 3 Days | Meals Included: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch

 

Trip Highlights:

 

Cherry Blossom Parade

Washington, DC welcomes the arrival of spring with the National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrating the gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Tokyo to our nation's capital. Take in the spectacle from reserved seating at the annual Cherry Blossom Parade, where you can delight in decorated floats, colorful helium balloons, marching bands, clowns, horses, antique cars, military and celebrity performances, and captivating cultural groups like the National Cherry Blossom Festival All-Star Youth Tap Dance Team and Choir.

 

Check out highlights from last year's Parade!

 

 

National World War II Memorial

The National World War II Memorial stands as a tribute to the 16 million Americans who served in the U.S. armed forces, honoring the memory of over 400,000 who made the ultimate sacrifice, alongside all those who contributed to the war effort from home. Symbolizing the pivotal moment of the 20th century, this monument embodies the indomitable spirit, selfless sacrifice, and unwavering dedication of the American people.

 

Arlington National Cemetery Trolley Tour

Visit America's largest national burial ground, spanning over 600 acres of landscaped hills. Among its thousands of white headstones lie the final resting places of notable figures such as President John F. Kennedy, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and world champion boxer Joe Louis. The solemn Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands as a poignant tribute, where the Changing of the Guard ceremony unfolds with precision and honor. Visitors are reminded that no food items are permitted within the cemetery grounds.

 

 

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial features four outdoor "Gallery" rooms adorned with ten bronze sculptures that depict President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt, and pivotal events from the Great Depression and World War II. Nestled amidst tranquil waterfalls, serene pools, and granite inscribed with FDR's stirring speeches, this memorial offers a serene and contemplative park-like atmosphere.

 

Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum complex and research organization, spanning 16 museums and research centers along the National Mall between the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. Explore a diverse array of museums including the Air & Space Museum, African American History & Culture Museum, American Indian Museum, Natural History Museum, American Art Museum, Portrait Gallery, Postal Museum, African Art Museum, Anacostia Community Museum, American History Museum, and Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. Note that timed entry passes are required for the Air & Space Museum and African American History & Culture Museum (free, reserve online 1 month in advance).

 

Twilight Ride Through DC

See our nation's capital illuminated on a twilight ride through Washington, DC. Enjoy a photo stop at the Lincoln Memorial, where you can also visit the Korean and Vietnam Memorials, followed by a photo opportunity at the Capitol. For the best experience during the photo stops, we recommend bringing a flashlight.

 

Meal Information:

 

Lunch on day one is included at Carmines Restaurant

Menu is TBA

 

Menus are subject to change.

 

Need to Know:

• The Parade will proceed rain or shine- no umbrellas allowed; ponchos preferred.

• For the evening riding tour, we advise bringing a flashlight for the photo stops.

• Smithsonian museums enforce a security policy requiring all items (handbags, backpacks, etc.) to undergo a search upon entry.

• Arlington Cemetery security guidelines: All visitors aged 16 and older must show a valid state or government-issued photo ID upon entry. Visitors aged 16 and 17 may use a school-issued ID. Non-U.S. citizens must present a valid passport or U.S. State Department-issued photo ID.

• Cherry Blossom Parade: Expect to walk several blocks due to traffic and road closures for the parade; wear comfortable walking shoes. This is a city-wide event so the area will be crowded. Dress in layers; it is cooler in the morning. Pack snacks/drinks; limited food trucks on site. Porta-potties available.

• Smithsonian Institution Museums: Museum are free; two museums require timed entry passes which you can reserve online 1 month in advance: Air & Space Museum and the African American History & Culture Museum.

• Every Starr trip includes deluxe round-trip motorcoach transportation from one or more of our departure locations.

• A Starr TourDirector will accompany you on this trip.

 

Accessibility:

• This tour involves extensive walking due to traffic and road closures for special events.

• Arlington Cemetery Tram: On-demand service is available for those who can transfer from their wheelchair and manage a few steps. All ANC Tour vehicles feature priority seating and wheelchair storage. Please provide advanced notice if you require a chair lift for better assistance.

• Starr has a select quantity of wheelchair accessible motorcoaches available; therefore, we suggest you contact a Travel Advisor to discuss any needs you may have before reserving your trip.

Hyatt Centric Arlington (Arlington, VA)

 

The Hyatt Centric Arlington's ideal location puts you within walking distance to Georgetown and across the street from the Rosslyn Metro Center, providing easy access to monuments, museums, galleries and attractions inside the Beltway. The hotel has a restaurant/lounge and 24-hour fitness room. Guest rooms include coffee maker, mini-fridge, hair dryer, and iron/board.