Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrive in Washington, D.C
Arrive in Washington, D.C. and pick up your car rental. Washington is America's front yard filled with monuments, memorials, and eclectic neighborhoods but your time of arrival will determine how much of the city you are able to explore. In any case, it is unthinkable to begin any journey learning about Civil War history without first exploring Washington, D.C. A great place to start is the western end of the National Mall with the Lincoln Memorial, which honors the memory of Abraham Lincoln, the 16th U.S. president. Nearby is Arlington National Cemetery, established during the 1861-1865 Civil War on the grounds of Arlington House, once the estate of Confederate General Robert E. Lee's wife which has been a military cemetery ever since. Overnight Washington D.C
Hotel: Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - National Mall (3 Star Rating)
Modern hotel near the National Mall, The Wharf DC and United States Capitol Building The Holiday Inn® Washington Capitol-National Mall's location places you within walking distance of the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, Museum of the Bible, International Spy Museum, Museum of African American History and Culture, and of course the gorgeous National Mall. In addition to DC's most popular attractions, numerous government agencies and offices such as DOE, DHHS, FAA, FEMA, HUD, NASA, USDA, and American Farm Bureau Federation, are within walking distance. Book your stay just minutes from Washington's most storied historical sites, including the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, World War II Memorial, and MLK Jr. Memorial. Amenities include free high-speed Internet access, mini refrigerator, Keurig coffeemakers, and in-room safes.
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Rental Car: Hertz - Washgtn Nat'l Apto Washgtn Nat'l Ap
Day 2: Washington, D.C. to RichmondToday as you drive through to Richmond there are three recommended battlefield visits. After leaving Washington, D.C., the first stop is Manassas National Battlefield Park, north of Manassas, Virginia. The site commemorates two battles, one in 1861 and the other a year later, between the Union and Confederate armies. This is where Confederate Gen. Thomas Jackson earned the nickname 'Stonewall'. South of Manassas is Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park, known as 'Americas Battleground', the scene of four Civil War battles, where the war reached its climax. A key city in the Civil War was Richmond, Virginia, the capital of the Confederate States of America during most of the war. The Richmond National Battlefield Park commemorates the many battles fought in the defense of the city. Overnight Richmond
Hotel: Hampton Inn & Suites Richmond - Downtown (2 Star Rating)
The hotel is in the heart of the action in Richmond, half a mile from the convention center and two blocks from the State Capitol. Virginia Commonwealth University and a wide variety of downtown restaurants and bars are all within a mile.
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Rental Car: Hertz - Washgtn Nat'l Apto Washgtn Nat'l Ap
Day 3: Richmond to ShenandoahBefore you leave Richmond learn about Maggie L. Walker at the National Historic Site, which celebrates the life of Walker, who was born to a former slave and later became the first African American woman to charter a bank in the USA. A civil rights activist, she devoted her life to helping African Americans. Take a respite from Civil War history to explore the beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah National Park. Travel the spectacular Skyline Drive and take the opportunity to select a hike from over five hundred miles (805 km) of trails to experience lush forests, waterfalls, incredible views, and wildlife. Overnight Luray
Hotel: Quality Inn (3 Star Rating)
The hotel is close to Shenandoah National Park, Luray Valley Museum and Lake Arrowhead Recreation Park. We get you close to everywhere you need to be when visiting Luray on business, or reuniting with family and friends.
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Rental Car: Hertz - Washgtn Nat'l Apto Washgtn Nat'l Ap
Day 4: Shenandoah to GettysburgA busy day ahead with two important historical sites on your check list. Start with a step back in time at Harpers Ferry National Historical Park, site of the famous abolitionist uprising of 1859 led by John Brown. This historic community offers battlefields, museums, and a variety of hiking trails, and old-fashioned taverns and shops. Next is Gettysburg National Military Park, site of the 1863 Battle of Gettysburg, a turning point for the Union in the Civil War and the inspiration for Lincoln's famous Gettysburg Address. Overnight Gettysburg
Hotel: Wyndham Gettysburg (3 Star Rating)
Located just outside downtown Gettysburg, the Wyndham Gettysburg Hotel is ideal for both business and pleasure. The Federal-style architecture reflects the area’s storied Civil War past, with modern amenities offered to make your stay memorable.
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Hotel: Hotel Gettysburg (3 Star Rating)
Experience Gettysburg's rich history and modern comfort at Hotel Gettysburg. Step out our front door onto Lincoln Square, where history whispers from every corner. Our newly renovated hotel offers contemporary comfort and warm hospitality seamlessly intertwined with timeless charm. Explore nearby attractions, boutique shops and delectable restaurants, all steps away. Walk in the footsteps of historical figures with a visit to the nearby Gettysburg Battlefield. Celebrate life's most important events in our historic Grand Ballroom. Whether seeking the perfect escape, a historic immersion, or a memorable event, Hotel Gettysburg is the key to your unforgettable experience.
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Rental Car: Hertz - Washgtn Nat'l Apto Washgtn Nat'l Ap
Day 5: Gettysburg to Washington, D.C.Today's drive takes you back to Washington, D.C. where you can continue to explore the USA capital. The African American Civil War Memorial honors the African American soldiers and sailors who fought for freedom from slavery during the Civil War. To complete the historical picture visit Ford's Theater; the museum here tells the story of Lincoln's assassination on this fateful night in 1865. Overnight Washington D.C
Hotel: The Churchill Hotel (4 Star Rating)
Conveniently located in the Nation's Capital with easy access to various dining options and must-see attractions, Churchill Hotel Near Embassy Row offers charm and elegance with luxurious accommodations.
Inspired by the sophisticated elegance of 18th century design, Churchill Hotel's guest rooms and suites are beautifully furnished with modern accents and calming hues of slate grey and royal purple.
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Rental Car: Hertz - Washgtn Nat'l Apto Washgtn Nat'l Ap
Day 6: Depart from Washington, D.C.Make your way to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport or Washington Dulles International Airport for your flight home unless you plan to extend your stay in the area.
Rental Car: Hertz - Washgtn Nat'l Apto Washgtn Nat'l Ap
