Experience the heartbeat of American essence on this excursion to two of the country's most influential cities: New York City & Washington DC. Immerse yourself in the core of the rich heritage of the Big Apple, gaining valuable insights that will enhance your understanding and appreciation of this lively and dynamic metropolis. On the other hand, Washington, DC offers students an opportunity to bridge the gap between classroom-taught history and a tangible connection with America's governmental institutions during their trip.

OVERVIEW

Sample Student Itinerary

NYC & DC Student Trip ✈️

NYC & DC Student Trip

New York - 3 nights: 
Check in: Monday, Dec 4th 
Check out: Thursday, Dec 7th

Washington DC - 2  nights:
Check in: Thursday, Dec 7th 
Check out: Saturday, Dec 9th

Hotel Overview 

Freehand is a collection of hotels that combine the social culture of a hostel with innovative design, award-winning food and beverage, and a community-driven atmosphere. Located in Manhattan’s Flatiron District, Freehand New York is housed in the former George Washington Hotel—once home to many storied writers, musicians and creatives. Featuring custom-commissioned artwork by Bard College students and alumni throughout, we’re revitalizing the artistic community in a historic NY neighborhood.

Room Type: Private Quad - 4 Twins | 225 ft² (21 m²) Each bunk has individual outlets and reading lights. Daily housekeeping. Includes Wifi, air conditioning, high definition TV, desk, in-room safe, private bathroom, argan bath amenities, hair dryer, bathrobes, and steamer for clothes.

Hotel Amenities: Comodo Restaurant, custom artwork by Bard College Artists, rooftop area, Smile To Go Café, luggage storage, 24-Hour front desk, and security.

Freehand New York - 4* Hotel

You’ll find YOTEL Washington DC in the thick of the action next to Capitol Hill. Stay with us and enjoy its playful design together with technology-driven experiences.

Room type: First Class Two Queens View - Two queen size adjustable SmartBeds™ 320sqft / 30sqm - Sleeps up to 4 guests. Includes: iron, hair dryer, Wifi, smart TV, and private bathroom.

Hotel amenities: Contactless check-in, SmartKey, gym, award-winning Art and Soul Restaurant, outdoor patio, rooftop area, complimentary coffee, tea and water stations.

Yotel Washington DC - 4* Hotel

Includes:
- Transfer upon arrival to  NYC
- Transfer departure from DC
- Any transfer  needed for activities/restaurants  if needed.
- Transfer from NYC to DC (4 hrs approx)

Type of vehicle subject to group´s number of guests: 
* all includes a professional chauffeur in uniform *

Van: Seats 9 passengers with luggage, air conditioning, and bench seating
Mini-Coach: Up to 29 passengers, additional luggage space available, air conditioning, and forward seating.
Motorcoach: Seats 50 to 56 passengers, forward seating, restroom, VHS/DVD/CD, carry on luggage bins above seats, large luggage area under bus, and air conditioning
.

Transportation

Offering immaculate customer service and responsiveness, the team  is available and ready to assist you in all your event, business, and personal transport needs. All drivers are fully vetted, state certified, and 100% insured. We pride ourselves on being prompt which will take stress off your plate as a parent, guardian or educator.

Mini-Coach Services 

Arrive in NYC - Transfer to the hotel
Activity: 9/11 Memorial Museum & SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
Meals: Lunch & Dinner

Day 1 - Monday, December 4th, 2023 - NYC

Located at the World Trade Center in New York City, the 9/11 Memorial Museum tells the story of 9/11 through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts, presenting visitors with personal stories of loss, recovery, and hope.

Our age-appropriate interactive school programs help students understand 9/11 and its ongoing significance. All programs are led by 9/11 Memorial & Museum staff. 

Visit duration: 1h to 1.5 hrs.
Open hours Museum: Wed to Mon from 9 am - 7 pm
Open hours Memorial: all days from 8 am –8 pm

9/11 Memorial & Museum Guided Visit

One Vanderbilt skyscraper is 1,401 feet tall and is the tallest commercial skyscraper in all of Midtown, and among the top 30 tallest buildings in the world, not to mention one of the best New York bucket list items to check out. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a masterful blend of art, technology, architecture, and thrills that will ignite your imagination in unexpected ways. 

Experience description: SUMMIT is a three-level multisensory art immersion unlike any other.
- OB1 - 91st Floor (3 spaces): Begin your journey with the spectacular opening to the immersive NYC Air exhibit by Kenzo Digital. Meditate in an art installation by the renowned artist Yayoi Kusama.  
 - OB2 - 92nd Floor (3 spaces): Experience Transcendence 1 from above, taking your perspective to a new level. Stand in a glass-bottomed ledge extending 1,100 feet over Madison Avenue. 
- OB3 - 93rd Floor: Cafe area, enjoy open-air terrace views of Manhattan and beyond.

Visit duration: 1h to 1.5 hrs.
Open hours all days from 9 am – 12am

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt Experience

Activities: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Visit, & Greenwich Village Walking Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 2 - Tuesday, December 5th, 2023 - NYC


On this tour, we will explore both of these iconic, national landmarks. Our first stop will be the Statue of Liberty where we will discover some of the motives behind this 100th birthday gift to America from France, meet some of the key people involved in her creation and investigate the symbolism in the statue.

From there we will journey to Ellis Island. More than 12 million immigrants entered the United States through this island, the nation’s chief gateway during the years 1892 to 1954. Following restoration in the 1980s, this building reopened as the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, a symbol of this nation’s immigrant heritage. The museum exhibits chronicle Ellis Island’s role in immigration history, and view it in the context of its time and the still broader context of four centuries of immigration to America. 

Tour duration: 4 - 5 hrs

Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Guided Tour 🗽

From iconic performers to the world-famous Amateur Night, The Apollo has amazing events throughout the year. The Apollo Historic Tour: The tour provides patrons with the opportunity to visit
the historic theater and explore the legendary history of the Apollo with behind-the-scenes access to the place “Where Stars are Born and Legends are Made!”

This tour connects the past, present, and future of the Apollo through the entertaining and inspiring storytelling of Apollo historian Billy “Mr. Apollo”
Mitchell.

End the tour with a delicious lunch at Lido which features delicious Italian cuisine. The
interior has a sophisticated and spacious
dining room!

Historic Tour of Harlem & The Apollo Theater Followed by Lunch at Lido or BIXI

Activities: Secrets of New York Walking & Tasting Tour, Theater District & Time Square Tour, and Broadway Show
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (on tour) & Dinner

Day 3 - Wednesday, December 6th, 2023 - NYC

Delve into the city’s rich history as we unveil often-overlooked gems in Soho, Chinatown, Little Italy, and Midtown Manhattan. Along the way, we’ll lead you to the marvels hidden in plain sight, and we’ll also tantalize your taste buds at four unassuming eateries that perfectly align with our theme.

Visit local favorites like Nolita Pizza and Tasty Dumpling, savoring flavors of the city’s culinary scene. Walk the hallowed aisles featured in the iconic Godfather movies at the original St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Unlock the secrets of Grand Central Terminal Immerse yourself in the fleeting beauty of the Elizabeth Street Garden, a tranquil urban oasis, open to the public for a limited time.

Secrets of New York Walking & Tasting Tour 🥨

On this epic Times Square walking tour, you’ll discover the vibrant heart of New York City. You’ll hear about its history and discover the entertainment and media of the area. On this guided tour, get an exciting e view of Broadway and the Theater District and witness the enduring legacy of original influencers. You will learn about the iconic individuals and places that shaped societal perceptions and propagated global pop culture making New York City renowned worldwide.

Tour duration: 2 hrs

Times Square and the Theater District Tour

Tickets to see one show. Subject to tickets availability and show. 

 You'll be immersed in the dazzling lights and captivating performances that make Broadway legendary. From the iconic marquees to the world-class productions, this excursion promises a magical experience. Our students will have the chance to witness the artistry of top-tier actors and immerse themselves in the cultural richness of the city that never sleeps. Get ready for a night of entertainment that will leave you with lasting memories of the Broadway stage.






Broadway Show 🎭

NYC Restaurants 🍽

Our Flatiron Restaurant is right in the heart of New York City, not too far away from the famous Madison Square Park. 

Our menu has something to make everyone's mouth water. We have a range of starters that will line you up for your main course perfectly with options including Calamari, Oysters and Lobster Bites. For main course you can choose from our originals: Nebraskan Beef Burgers, Wild Atlantic Lobsters and our famous Lobster Rolls. 

Open hours: al days 12pm - 10pm
13 min walking distance from the hotel.

Burger & Lobster Flat Iron 🍔

Virgil’s was the original New York City barbeque restaurant, and has evolved over the years to become a gathering place known for warm service and exceptional barbecued ribs, chicken, brisket, and pork. The vast menu also highlights other comfort food favorites, and varied regional cuisines that complement the famous smoked meats. From Mexican dishes, to Creole and Cajun classics, there is something for everyone at Virgil’s, even vegetarians! Our in-house bakery produces hot buttermilk biscuits, cornbread, and dessert specialties that are a perfect end to any meal.

Virgil’s Real Barbecue has been acclaimed as one of America’s top 10 BBQ restaurants. Established 1994, Virgil’s meats are smoked at a low temperature over indirect heat for up to ten hours with a unique mix of hickory, oak and fruit woods in order to impart the most flavor.

Virgil's Real Barbeque

Get ready to rock your taste buds at the iconic Hard Rock Cafe! Located in the heart of NYC, this legendary restaurant offers more than just a meal; it's a true rock 'n' roll experience. Whether you're a music enthusiast or just looking for a fun and memorable lunch, the Hard Rock Cafe has something for everyone.

As you step inside, you'll be immersed in a rock 'n' roll wonderland adorned with an impressive collection of music memorabilia. From guitars signed by rock legends to iconic costumes worn by your favorite artists, every corner tells a story of music history.

The menu at the Hard Rock Cafe is as diverse as the music that fills its walls. You can savor classic American dishes with a rock 'n' roll twist, such as mouthwatering burgers, and flavorful salads. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that everyone in your group finds a dish to suit their tastes.

Hard Rock Cafe 🎸

Friedmans is a family run business. Friedmans was named after the famous economist Milton Friedman who popularized the phrase, “there ain’t no such thing as a free lunch”. To put it simply, “to get one thing we like, we usually have to give up another thing we like.” All-day spot in the Hotel Edison specializing in seasonal, mostly gluten-free comfort classics.

Open hours: all days 8:30 am - 9 pm
20 min walking distance from  hotel.

Friedman's - NYC Restaurant

Modern Italian & Mediterranean cuisine & modern decor star at this lively, casual eatery. Just a heartbeat away from the buzz of Broadway and the vibrant energy of Hell’s Kitchen, Etcetera Etcetera is a modern and cozy oasis of culinary delights.

Open hours: Tuesday to Friday 5pm - 10 pm
Located in the Theater district, perfect spot for the student to grab dinner before the show!



Etcetera Etcetera - Theater District

Transfer from New York City to DC (4 hrs approx)
Activities: Scavenger Hunt at The Met & DC Monuments Tour
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 - Thursday, December 7th, 2023 

Our Metropolitan Museum of Art Scavenger Hunt is full of ancient and modern secrets! Roam the corridors of Egyptian artifacts. Explore the Temple of Dendur. Search for secret carvings in ancient Greek columns. Examine famous paintings for hidden details.

It’s not a tour – it’s a game of strategy, learning, collaboration and communication in which teams must search together for the answers to clues, to solve the puzzle first. 

Scavenger Hunt at The Met 🔎

Activities: Historian's Tour of the U.S. Capitol, Speaker & DC Scavenger Hunt
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5 - Friday, December 8th, 2023 - DC

Take a step back in time and join the expert staff for an exclusive walking tour of the Capitol Grounds. Delve into the fascinating history of this iconic building, as you gain unique insights and perspectives about Congress, the origins and construction of the Capitol, and the broader concepts of democratic government.

Discover the secrets behind the nearly 40-year construction of the original Capitol Building and gain a deeper understanding of why and how it has been expanded and changed over the years. Hear about famous – and infamous – incidents that took place within its walls and pivotal turning points in the history of the republic that shaped the course of our nation.

Jane Campbell speaker: a testimony of being raised in a household dedicated to public service and the transitions both into and out of elected office. Shares stories from her time serving as an elected official in the Capitol, as well as her time as both a congressional chief of staff and committee staff director. 


Historian's Tour of the U.S. Capitol  & Speaker

You'll be starstruck by the famous planes and spacecrafts in the museum: The Wright Brothers' 1903 flyer, Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis, and the Command Module from Apollo 11. And you'll see some wacky and historic crafts too!

Other highlights: 
Viking Lander
Opportunity Mars Rover
Hubble Telescope
Surveyor TV camera from the moon
Turbo-engines
Speedster racing planes
Sea-air crafts.

STARTING POINT - Museum Lobby (600 Independence Ave SW)

Air Space Museum Interactive Tour 🚀

Activities: Mount Vernon/Alexandria Tour
Meals: Breakfast, & Lunch
Departure from Washington DC 

Day 6 - Saturday, December 9th, 2023 - DC

We will visit Old Town Alexandria, see General Robert E. Lee's first residence, and explore the World War II Torpedo Factory. Next, we'll proceed to Mount Vernon to visit George Washington's Mansion, the first President of the United States. We'll watch a documentary about his life, tour the entire Mansion, see where the slaves lived, visit George Washington's Mausoleum, and explore the museum. 

Tour duration: 4 hrs

Visit Old Town Alexandria & George Washington's Mansion

DC Restaurant Options 🍽

Rosemarino D’Italia opened in Alexandria on March 21, 2013, on Chef's youngest son's birthday. Rosemeri’s mission was to share her passion for Italian food with the Alexandria community. After 6 successful years, and the support of her fellow patrons, Rosemeri decided to open her second location in Dupont Circle, Washington D.C.

Our menu features seasonal specials made with locally procured ingredients, as well as our classic Italian cuisine including our handmade pasta (gluten-free, whole wheat, classic), freshly baked focaccia, signature entrées, seafood delicacies, and a carefully curated selection of wines to pair with your favorite Italian food. Everyone at Rosemarino shares the goal to provide the highest level of service to fully complement your dining experience.

Whether you're a food enthusiast, an Italian cuisine lover, or just looking for a tasty meal in a welcoming atmosphere, Rosemarino D'Italia in Alexandria and Washington D.C. is the place to be. Join us as we celebrate the flavors of Italy and create lasting memories!

Rosemarino D'Italia 🍕

Eat BRGZ, located in the heart of Washington, D.C., is a fantastic dining spot for student groups. 

Offering a delectable menu featuring gourmet burgers, BRGZ combines culinary innovation with a casual, welcoming atmosphere. It's the perfect place for students to bond over delicious food and explore diverse burger options. 

Whether it's a quick bite or a leisurely meal, Eat BRGZ provides a memorable dining experience for student groups looking to savor great food in the vibrant capital city.

Eat BRGZ 🍔

Discover Hook Hall:
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Washington, D.C., Hook Hall is not just your restaurant – it's an extraordinary experience waiting to unfold. Picture a versatile and dynamic venue designed to cater to diverse gatherings, and you've found Hook Hall. Whether you're planning a student group meetup, an academic event, or a celebration with friends, Hook Hall has got you covered.

The Industrial-Chic Charm:
Step into Hook Hall and prepare to be amazed. Its industrial-chic aesthetic is nothing short of captivating. Exposed brick walls, high ceilings, and spacious interiors create an atmosphere that's both trendy and inviting. The unique design elements set the stage for an unforgettable meal that's sure to leave a lasting impression.

Hook Hall

Welcome to our laid-back riverfront restaurant! We're all about local cuisine inspired by the Eastern U.S. You'll find us conveniently located just across the street from Nationals Park and right next to Audi Field.

Whether you're a sports fan, a food lover, or just looking for a cool place to hang out, our riverfront eatery is the place to be. Come and enjoy some delicious food and great company!
