Step into History: Celebrate America’s 250th Anniversary with a Grand Tour of the Nation’s Founding Cities
As the United States approaches its 250th anniversary in 2026, history is coming alive along the East Coast with a once-in-a-generation travel opportunity: QC Plus 60 Club’s Discover America’s 250th Anniversary grand tour, an immersive journey through the nation’s most iconic cities – Boston, New York City, Philadelphia and Washington DC.
This Collette Tours multi-day experience is more than a vacation—it’s a walk through the very pages of American history, perfectly timed to coincide with national celebrations, historical reenactments, special museum exhibits, and culminating in Washington DC during Cherry Blossom Festival time.
The tour begins in Boston where Revolution was born. The cobblestone streets and brick townhouses echo the voices of Samuel Adams, Paul Revere and the Sons of Liberty. Guests will explore Lexington & Concord and head to the exact spot where the ‘shot heard ‘round the world’ was fired.
On the way to New York City, there will be a visit to West Point, considered the most important military post in America. You will be staying right in the heart of Times Square while in the Big Apple and see all the historic highlights, from where George Washington took the first presidential oath to the 9/11 Memorial. You will even have the option to take a seat at one of Broadway’s biggest hits: Hamilton!
Next, travelers head to Philadelphia, the City of Firsts, the birthplace of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution as well as the Liberty Bell. Special 250th anniversary programming at Independence Hall and the National Constitution Center offers rare access and insights. You will experience a piece of maritime history having a special dinner on board the world’s oldest and largest square rigged sailing vessel still afloat.
En route to Washington DC, you will make stop at Valley Forge National Historical Park, George Washington’s Continental Army winter encampment. Later arrive in our nation’s capital where you will spend the next three nights.
You will discover the celebrated history of America’s capital on a tour around the city. Pause to reflect at the World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Korean War Memorial. See the National Mall, White House and other monuments and museums, visit Arlington Cemetery, enjoy the U.S. Capital Building Tour. Also included is a visit to Mount Vernon, the beloved home of George Washington.
This will be a tour unlike any other! Whether you are a history buff, a person eager to connect with the past or simply someone looking to be a part of a historic moment, this journey is a chance to honor our nation - where we’ve been and where we’re going.
Book now for this 9 day tour departing March 22 – 30, 2026.
Reservations can be made by calling Collette Tours at 800-581-8942 and refer to group booking # 1333630. Prices start at $4299 and includes transportation to OHare with flights to Boston and returning from Washington DC.
To request a brochure or for any questions, please call board member Connie Johnson at 719-649-2960.