DAY 1 MONDAY, APRIL 13 RICHMOND (D)

Today, we transfer to the airport for our flight to Virginia, a state woven into the very fabric of America’s founding story. Upon arrival in Richmond, our comfortable motorcoach will be waiting to take us to the hotel. After settling in, we’ll come together for a delightful welcome dinner.

DAY 2 TUESDAY, APRIL 14 RICHMOND (B, D)

Following breakfast, our day begins with a guided tour of the Virginia State Capitol, a striking landmark designed by Thomas Jefferson and completed in 1788. As one of the oldest functioning legislative buildings in the country, the Capitol offers a rich glimpse into American democracy with its grand rotunda, historic chambers, and beautifully manicured grounds. Our journey through Richmond’s history continues with a visit to the Edgar Allan Poe Museum, located in the city’s oldest standing structure—the Old Stone House. Here, explore a fascinating collection of Poe artifacts, including his childhood bed, engagement ring, and even a piece of his original coffin, while learning about the mastermind and his ties to Richmond. After some free time to enjoy lunch on our own, we’ll head to the stately Maymont Mansion. Built in 1893 by James and Sallie Dooley, this lavish estate showcases thirty-three exquisitely decorated rooms in Romanesque Revival and Queen Anne styles. Alongside its opulent interiors, the mansion also highlights the lives of the domestic staff during the Jim Crow era, adding a meaningful layer of social history. This evening, gather for a group dinner before embarking on a thrilling ghost tour of Richmond. With a spooky step-on guide leading the way, we’ll hear chilling tales as we pass through some of the city’s most haunted districts, from eerie Court End and Shockoe Bottom to the shadowy corners of Capitol Hill, each with its own tale of restless spirits and lingering legends.

DAY 3 WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 VIRGINIA BEACH (B, L)

Today’s adventure takes us to the White House of the Confederacy, once home to Confederate President Jefferson Davis and his family during the Civil War. Filled with authentic period furnishings and personal artifacts, the mansion offers a powerful glimpse into life during this defining era. Continue to the neighboring American Civil War Museum, located beside the former Tredegar Iron Works, which once produced cannons for the Confederacy. The museum’s chronological and immersive exhibits present a nuanced view of the war’s many phases, providing a deeper understanding of the conflict from multiple perspectives. After a group lunch, we make our way to the historic St. John’s Church, the site where Patrick Henry delivered his iconic “Give me liberty or give me death!” speech. A guided tour sets the stage for a stirring one-man show, with a skilled actor bringing Henry’s revolutionary passion to life. From there, board the motorcoach and head to Virginia Beach. After checking in, enjoy the evening at your leisure with the beach and boardwalk just steps away.

DAY 4 THURSDAY, APRIL 16 VIRGINIA BEACH (B, L)

After breakfast, we’ll travel to Norfolk for a visit to the Nauticus, a vibrant waterfront museum located in the heart of downtown. One of the museum’s standout attractions is the Battleship Wisconsin, one of the largest battleships ever built, which you may have the opportunity to board and explore (subject to availability). The morning continues with a visit to the beloved Doumar’s Cones & Barbecue, where the original waffle cone was born and still crafted on a century-old machine. Savor a nostalgic group lunch here before returning to Virginia Beach for an exciting dolphin-watching cruise aboard the Atlantic Explorer. This guided boat tour offers the chance to spot playful bottlenose dolphins, seabirds, and other marine life while learning about the coastal ecosystem from local experts. The evening is yours to relax and enjoy at your leisure.

DAY 5 FRIDAY, APRIL 17 VIRGINIA BEACH (B, L)

This morning, we’ll tour the Military Aviation Museum. With over seventy planes from the World War I and II eras, the museum offers a fascinating look at the evolution of military aviation. After exploring this impressive collection, indulge in a boxed lunch provided on-site before traveling to Norfolk. There, discover the Chrysler Museum of Art, where more than 30,000 works span over 5,000 years of artistic achievement. Enjoy some free time along Norfolk’s waterfront before heading to the Norfolk Scope Arena for the Virginia International Tattoo Hullabaloo, a lively pre-show event filled with music, dance, drills, and drumming exhibitions. After delighting in dinner on our own, we’ll take our seat for the Virginia International Tattoo, a breathtaking spectacle featuring more than 800 performers from seven nations. This unforgettable performance blends stirring music, military precision, and heartfelt tributes to honor those who have served, celebrating the spirit of freedom through generations of sacrifice and service (subject to availability).

DAY 6 SATURDAY, APRIL 18 VIRGINIA BEACH (B, D)

Our day starts with a drive to Norfolk for the lively Parade of Nations, a colorful celebration featuring over 100 parade units. After lunch on our own, it’s time to shake things up with a cocktail-making class at Waterman Spirits. Learn how to craft unique coastal-inspired drinks under the guidance of a pro, then toast to your creation with a well-earned taste. The group will be split into two, so while waiting for your class, take a stroll down the Virginia Beach Boardwalk. We’ll cap off the day with a memorable farewell dinner.

DAY 7 SUNDAY, APRIL 19 HOME (B)

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for our flight home.