Spotlight on Washington D.C.: Museums, monuments & memorials in the marvellous US capital
The political heart of the United States, Washington D.C. offers an unparalleled setting for an educational school trip. Renowned for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and rich historical prowess, the US capital provides a unique backdrop upon which history, culture, and innovation converge. Here, students will have every opportunity to delve right into American history and politics, whether they're standing before the Lincoln Memorial, exploring the vast collections of the Smithsonian museums, or walking through the halls of the National Archives, where the very fabric of American democracy is preserved.
With such an abundance of enriching experiences, Washington D.C. is the perfect destination to inspire and educate students across various subjects. However, we understand that planning a school trip can be a complex and time-consuming endeavour. That's why we've written this guide. We'll walk you through the best free attractions and activities, highlight trip options to fit curricular objectives, and give you day-to-day prices, ensuring your trip is both educational and budget-friendly. Get ready to embark on a journey that will leave a lasting impact on your students' learning and personal growth.
Learning objectives covered by a Washington, D.C. school trip
History
Complement your class’ GCSE syllabus with a five-day visit to Washington, D.C., which focuses on the significance of the American enterprise and achievement as well as its struggles and conflicts. During your trip, students will be able to see first-hand the social and economic impact of the Boom and Bust era, and consider the impact of the Civil Rights Movement and more recent conflicts through a variety of excursions.
Politics
With this school trip to Washington. D.C., your student group will be able to improve their understanding of politics from one of the world’s most influential cities. A visit to the National Mall offers your class a glimpse at the location where many protests and rallies have taken place, including Martin Luther King Jr’s famous “I Have a Dream” speech, alongside countless world-class museums. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the US Congress and Supreme Court, where your group will gain the unforgettable perspective of the floor where US laws and legislations are passed – the perfect spot to teach them the difference between British and American policymaking.
Multi-centre Washington, D.C. & New York school trips
History
Expand your class’ knowledge of American political history with this incredible dual-centre school trip, which will take them to two of the most influential cities in the world. In Washington, DC, your group can learn about the origins of the civil rights movement and presidential campaigns through time as they explore the city’s world-class museums. To the north, on the US East Coast in New York, students will then further develop their understanding of US history through meetings with veterans of the civil rights movement, as well as visiting some of the city’s best-known landmarks.
Travel & tourism
There’s plenty for travel and tourism students to learn on a dual-centre trip to Washington, D.C. and New York. As the US capital, the former boasts a powerful history and some of the world’s best museums, attracting more than 24 million tourists year-on-year. As one of the top ten tourist cities in the world, the latter more than speaks for itself. See why these two unique cities are so important in US tourist trade by exploring the two cities’ eclectic neighbourhoods, memorials, and landmarks, rewarding your group with an educational experience they’ll never forget.
Free things to do in Washington, D.C. for schools
With its rich history and diverse culture, Washington, D.C. provides numerous free attractions and activities that are perfect for school groups on a budget. Here are some suggestions:
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Explore the extensive exhibits at the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, where students can delve into the rich history of the United States through exhibits on the American presidency, innovations, and social progress.
National Gallery of Art
Admire masterpieces from renowned artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet at the National Gallery of Art. Entry to the main collection is free, providing an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and complementing art and design curricula.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Discover the wonders of aviation and space exploration at the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – the ideal destination for students interested in STEM or the space race. The museum features exhibits on the history of flight, space missions, and cutting-edge technology.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Engage with the powerful and poignant exhibits at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, which offers an important educational experience for history students to learn about the Holocaust, its impact, and the importance of tolerance and human rights.
Library of Congress
Visit the largest library in the world, the Library of Congress, where students can explore the historic Thomas Jefferson Building, view the impressive architecture, and learn about the vast collections that support a range of academic subjects.
National Archives Museum
Examine the original documents that shaped American history at the National Archives Museum. Free admission allows students to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, providing a tangible connection to history and political studies.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Engage with interactive exhibits and marvel at the iconic Hope Diamond at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. This museum is a fascinating destination for students interested in science and natural history, with exhibits covering topics from palaeontology to biodiversity.
Lincoln Memorial
Visit the iconic Lincoln Memorial on the National Mall and honour the contributions and legacy of President Abraham Lincoln pertaining to American history.
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Immerse your group in the heritage and culture of African Americans at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and provide them with a comprehensive understanding of Black history.
United States Capitol
Take a free tour of the United States Capitol, where students can learn about the legislative process and the history of American government. The Capitol Visitor Center offers educational exhibits and multimedia experiences that enhance the learning experience.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial to honour the legacy of this iconic civil rights leader. Students can reflect on his contributions to social justice and equality while exploring the inspirational quotes etched into the memorial.
Remember to check the opening hours and any specific guidelines for these attractions, as policies may change.
How much do every day items for school trips cost in Washington, D.C. (2024)?
- Single subway ticket: $2.25
- Coffee: $5.50
- Burger and fries in a fast food restaurant: $12
- Bottle of water: $2.30
Ready to book your school trip to Washington, D.C.?
Washington, D.C. stands out as an exceptional destination for school trips, offering a wealth of educational attractions that can fit a wide range of curricular objectives. Whether your group’s focus is on politics, history, or travel and tourism, the US capital provides ample opportunities to enrich your students' learning experiences. By exploring the city's monuments, museums, and memorials, students can gain a deeper understanding of important historical and political events, and their wider impact on the fabric of society both then and now.
To find out more about our school trips to Washington, D.C., or enquire about booking a school trip, please call us on 01273 648248. You can also fill out our webform, and our school trip experts will get back to you as soon as we can.
