Washington DC: Cherry Blossom Parade

Washington DC: Cherry Blossom Parade

Trip Duration: 3 Days

 

 

Trip Inclusions:

• Meals: 2 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch

• Tour Director

• Overnight accommodations

• Deluxe motorcoach transportation

• Baggage handling and related gratuities

• Taxes

 

 

Highlights Include:

 

 

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. This two-week event features over 200 international cultural performances and more than 90 special events city-wide. Take in the spectacle from reserved seating at the annual Cherry Blossom Parade, where families 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.

 

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. From October 1 to March 31, this ritual occurs hourly; from April 1 to September 30, it doubles, with additional ceremonies every half-hour until 7 p.m. Visitors are reminded that no food items are permitted within the cemetery grounds.

 

FDR Memorial

The FDR Memorial consists of four outdoor "Gallery" rooms adorned with ten bronze sculptures depicting President Franklin D. Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt, and pivotal events from the Great Depression and World War II. Set amidst tranquil waterfalls, serene pools, and granite inscribed with FDR's stirring speeches, the memorial offers a 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, 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 Day 1 at Carmines features an impressive Family Style meal of Caesar Salad, Caprese Salad, Penne Vodka, Linguini Garlic & Oil, Chicken Parm, & Chocolate Torte for dessert. Nonalcoholic drinks are included.

 

 

Need to Know:

Please note, this city-wide event will bring significant crowds to the downtown area.

 

The Parade will proceed rain or shine. 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. At the main entrance, all pedestrians must undergo screening at the Welcome Center. Express lines are available for visitors without bags, and there's an express line for those with disabilities.

 

 

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 Arlington National Cemetery 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, 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 offers a 24 hr. Stay Fit Center. Cityhouse Restaurant offers classic American cuisine and the Key Bridge Terrace offers lite fare and cocktails.

 

Guest rooms include hairdryer, coffee maker, iron/board, and mini-refrigerator.