Discover America's Christian Heritage in Washington, D.C.

Step into the story of our nation as you explore the historic sites that have shaped the United States and discover the enduring influence of the Christian faith on America's founding ideals. Throughout this unforgettable journey, students will encounter powerful Biblical themes including faith, servant leadership, justice, courage, sacrifice, freedom, and God's providence throughout history. More than a sightseeing experience, this tour is designed to inspire students to see how Biblical truth has influenced generations of leaders and continues to shape our responsibility as Christian citizens today.

Our journey begins in Jamestown, America's first permanent English settlement, where students will learn about the hardships, perseverance, and dependence upon God that marked the earliest days of the colonies. In nearby Colonial Williamsburg, history comes alive as costumed interpreters recreate the spirit of the Revolutionary era, inviting students to explore the principles of liberty, virtue, and self-government that helped lay the foundation for a new nation. At Yorktown Battlefield, where General George Washington secured the decisive victory of the American Revolution, students will reflect on humility, courageous leadership, and trusting God during seasons of uncertainty.

In the heart of our nation's capital, students will visit many of America's most significant institutions, including the United States Capitol, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and the White House. These landmarks provide opportunities to examine the foundations of American government and consider how Biblical principles such as justice, wisdom, integrity, and servant leadership have influenced many of our nation's leaders throughout history.

As we journey through the National Mall, students will pause at some of America's most inspiring memorials. At the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and World War II Memorial, they will honor the men and women whose sacrifices preserved the freedoms we enjoy today. At the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, students will discover how Dr. King's unwavering Christian faith shaped his pursuit of justice, reconciliation, and equality, reminding us of the transformative power of the Gospel in society.

The experience continues with visits to George Washington's Mount Vernon, where students will gain insight into the character and faith of America's first president, and the National Archives, where they will stand before the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights—documents that have guided the nation for generations. Time at the Smithsonian Institution further enriches the experience by allowing students to engage with America's history, culture, and scientific achievements through world-renowned exhibits.

Our journey concludes at the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery, where students will witness the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This moving ceremony provides an opportunity to reflect on honor, sacrifice, service, and the Christian hope that has sustained countless Americans through times of conflict and loss.

More than the seat of the federal government, Washington, D.C. tells the remarkable story of a nation shaped by ideals rooted in faith, freedom, and personal responsibility. Through engaging historical experiences, meaningful reflection, and Biblical application, this tour challenges students to deepen their understanding of America's heritage, strengthen their faith, and embrace God's calling to lead lives marked by integrity, conviction, and service to others.

Day 1 | Arrival Day
Flight to Washington, D.C. Area | Time-Permitting Museum Sightseeing | Travel to Williamsburg

Your journey begins with a flight to the Washington, D.C. area, setting the stage for a meaningful exploration of America’s history through a Biblical lens. As your group travels, this is an ideal time to begin focusing hearts and minds on the themes of faith, leadership, and God’s providence woven throughout the story of our nation.

If time allows, students will begin their experience with a visit to one of Washington’s renowned museums.

From there, your group will travel to Williamsburg, where the foundations of early American life come into focus. As the day concludes, students will settle in and prepare for the days ahead—ready to explore the origins of a nation shaped by faith, perseverance, and vision.

Day 2 | Exploration of America’s Foundations
Jamestown Settlement | Yorktown Battlefield & Revolution Museum

The day begins at Jamestown Settlement, where students step into the story of America’s first permanent English colony. Here, they will explore the challenges, faith, and perseverance of early settlers while gaining insight into the beginnings of representative government. This experience invites reflection on God’s providence in uncertain circumstances and the courage required to establish a new society grounded in both conviction and hope.

Next, your group will visit Yorktown Battlefield and the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, where students will stand on the very ground where the fight for independence reached its decisive conclusion. As they learn about the leadership of George Washington and the perseverance of the Continental Army, students will consider the Biblical themes of sacrifice, unity, and reliance on God in the face of overwhelming challenges. This powerful day brings to life the moment when a nation was born and encourages students to reflect on the cost and calling of freedom.

Day 3 | Living History & Lasting Sacrifice
Colonial Williamsburg | Evening Memorial Tour

Step back in time as your group explores Colonial Williamsburg, the largest living history museum in the country. As students walk through the colonial capital, they will encounter the people, ideas, and tensions that shaped a growing desire for independence. This immersive experience brings history to life, prompting reflection on the role of faith, conviction, and moral courage in the birth of a nation.

Later, your group will travel to Washington, D.C. for a powerful, guided evening tour of the nation’s most iconic memorials. Students will visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial, reflecting on the cost of freedom and the enduring legacy of leadership and sacrifice. Illuminated at night, these sacred spaces provide a meaningful setting to consider themes of service, humility, and the call to live with purpose and gratitude.

Day 4 | Institutions of Leadership & Remembrance
Supreme Court | U.S. Capitol | Library of Congress | White House | Memorials

Begin the day at the Supreme Court of the United States, where students will gain insight into the judicial branch and the pursuit of justice in American life. This visit provides an opportunity to reflect on the Biblical foundations of law, righteousness, and the responsibility of leaders to uphold truth with integrity.

Next, explore the United States Capitol on an interior tour, where the legislative branch crafts the laws that shape the nation. Just steps away, students will visit the Library of Congress, a stunning symbol of knowledge and learning. Together, these sites encourage students to consider the importance of wisdom, discernment, and servant leadership in positions of influence.

A stop at the White House offers a glimpse of the executive branch and the residence of every U.S. president since John Adams. Students will reflect on the weight of leadership and the calling to lead with character and conviction.

The day continues with visits to powerful memorials, including the Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial), honoring the courage and sacrifice of U.S. Marines, and the Pentagon Memorial, which commemorates the 184 lives lost on September 11, 2001. These solemn experiences invite students to remember, reflect, and respond with gratitude for those who have given so much in service to others.

Day 5 | Courage, Conflict & a Nation Defined
Fort McHenry | Gettysburg Battlefield | Gettysburg National Cemetery

Begin at Fort McHenry, where students will learn about the defense of Baltimore during the War of 1812 and the inspiration behind The Star-Spangled Banner. This stop invites reflection on perseverance and the role of faith during moments of national uncertainty.

Continue to Gettysburg Battlefield, the site of the most pivotal battle of the American Civil War. As students walk this historic ground, they will consider the cost of division and the Biblical call to unity, humility, and reconciliation. At the Gettysburg National Cemetery, students will stand where Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address, reflecting on sacrifice, equality, and the enduring pursuit of freedom.

Day 6 | Honor, Legacy & National Ideals
Arlington National Cemetery | National Archives | Smithsonian Museums | Tidal Basin Memorials

Begin the day at Arlington National Cemetery, where students will visit the gravesite of John F. Kennedy and witness the solemn Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This sacred place encourages reflection on sacrifice, service, and eternal hope.

Next, explore the National Archives Building, where students will view the nation’s founding documents and consider the principles that have shaped American identity. Continue with time at the Smithsonian Institution, choosing from world-class museums such as the National Museum of American History or National Museum of Natural History.

End the day with a walk around the Tidal Basin, visiting the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Here, students will reflect on leadership, justice, and the influence of faith on those who helped shape the nation’s ideals.

Day 7 | Leadership, Remembrance & Biblical Impact
Mount Vernon | Holocaust Museum | Ford’s Theatre | Museum of the Bible

Begin at George Washington's Mount Vernon, where students will tour the home and grounds of George Washington. This visit provides insight into his character, leadership, and reliance on faith during the nation’s founding.

Continue to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, where students will examine the tragic events of the Holocaust and reflect on the importance of human dignity, moral responsibility, and standing firm in truth.

Later, visit Ford's Theatre and the Petersen House, where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated and later died. End the day at the Museum of the Bible, experiencing a powerful theatrical presentation such as The Chronicles of Narnia, highlighting the enduring influence of Biblical truth through storytelling.

Day 8 | The Biblical Story & Journey Home
Museum of the Bible | Flight Home

Conclude your journey with an in-depth visit to the Museum of the Bible, where students will explore the history, impact, and narrative of Scripture in a dynamic and engaging way. This experience brings the trip full circle, helping students connect what they have seen throughout the week with the overarching story of God’s work in the world.

As your group departs for home, students are encouraged to reflect on all they have experienced—considering how history, faith, and personal calling intersect. This final day provides a meaningful opportunity to carry lessons learned into everyday life, inspired to live with purpose, conviction, and a deeper understanding of God’s hand in history.