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Washington, D.C.

Monumental D.C.

Program No. 12392RJ

Explore Washington, D.C., with experts and learn the stories behind the monuments, memorials and historic sites that pay testament to our national identity.

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5 days

4 nights

10 meals

4B 3L 3D

Check-In, Orientation, Welcome Dinner, National Mall Lecture

Virginia

Mount Vernon, Holocaust Memorial Museum, White House

Virginia

Arlington National Cemetery, Memorials

Virginia

Masonic History, Tidal Basin Memorials, Big Three Memorials

Virginia

Program Concludes

Virginia

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At a Glance

The capital of the United States is truly “monumental” as you’ll discover in this exciting experiential learning program with Road Scholar. Explore major monuments, memorials, museums and historic sites on and off the National Mall. Learn what Washington’s monuments tell about those who created them, the people and events they memorialize, their eras and how our nation’s sons and daughters are remembered. Daily discussions and field trips provide keen insights into historic and current issues.

Activity Level

Keep the Pace

Walking 2-3 miles per day during field trips over level terrain; extended standing. Monuments accessible by elevator.

Small Group

Love to learn and explore in a small-group setting? These adventures offer small, personal experiences with groups of 13 to 24 participants.

Best of all, you’ll…

Delve into George Washington's life as a pioneering farmer, businessman, fearless soldier and leader at Mount Vernon.
Witness the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown at Arlington Cemetery and visit the grave of President John F. Kennedy.
Enjoy the vibrant cultural and dining scene.

Featured Expert

All trip experts

Judy Scott Feldman

A native Washingtonian, art historian and educator, Judy Scott Feldman is a founder of the National Mall Coalition and has served as the Chairman of the Board since 2000. She has been a guest on numerous show including The News Hour and CBS Sunday Morning and received several awards for her mall advocacy. Dr. Feldman holds a Bachelor and Master of Arts degrees in art history from Pennsylvania State University, as well as a doctorate in art history from The University of Texas at Austin.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Judy Scott Feldman View biography

Akram Elias View biography

Akram R. Elias has been a Mason since 1996, when he was initiated into Freemasonry at Potomac Lodge No. 5, F.A.A.M. in Washington, D.C. Elias has been the head of several Masonic lodges in Washington, DC, and was installed as Grand Master of Masons of the District of Columbia on December 8, 2007, and completed his term in office on December 13, 2008. The Grand Master oversees all Masonic lodges within a Masonic jurisdiction.

Steve Flynn View biography

Steve Flynn was raised in Oregon. He pursued graduate work in intercultural studies and has extensive experience leading educational groups for students and adults both within and outside the U.S. A current resident of Washington, D.C., he has spent his professional career working in international student exchange programs for the University of North Carolina system.

Ella Schiralli View biography

Ella Schiralli is a certified D.C. group leader with a passion for sharing the culture, history, and modern vibrancy of our nation’s capital. She graduated from George Washington University with a B.B.A. and E.M.B.A. Ella values diversity and is passionate about leadership. She has had the opportunity to work and volunteer in organizations that range from advanced homeland security solutions and public policy advocacy, to women’s military achievements, the performing arts, and children’s advocacy.

Suggested Reading List (2 books)

Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop

You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

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Monumental D.C.

Program Number: 12392

The Washington National Mall

by Peter R. Penczer

The Washington National Mall" is the first general history of America's greatest urban park. Learn the fascinating stories behind the monuments and museums, from the best known to the most obscure. The Capitol, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial are all here, as are forgotten landmarks such as the Fish Commission, the Redwood Tree House, and Braddock's Rock. This amply illustrated volume has more than 100 archival photographs, many never before published, as well as recent color photographs of the monuments and museums. A detailed two-page map of the Mall and the surrounding area serve as a handy reference guide for visitors.

The Mall in Washington, 1791-1991

by Richard Longstreth

As the most important public space in the United States, the Mall in Washington, DC, has been a vital emblem of national spirit and ideals ever since Major Pierre Charles L'Enfant first envisioned it over 200 years ago. Although the Mall has undergone numerous changes since its conception, it has retained centrality within the life of the capital and has emerged as an essential symbol of American national identity and an influential model of city planning worldwide. Featuring 14 essays by prominent historians, architects, and leaders of some of Washington, DC's most important institutions, this volume explores the Mall's origins and growth, as well as the shifting political forces and cultural values that have shaped it. Over 140 illustrations help to tell the story of the site, including vintage maps, prints and drawings, in addition to numerous contemporary documentary and historical photographs. This edition features a new introduction discussing developments on the Mall since the first edition was published in 1991.

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Monumental D.C.

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At a Glance

Best of all, you’ll…

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