Day 1

American Celebration & Shenandoah Caverns

Depart from Pennsylvania as we journey south to the scenic Shenandoah Valley. Our first stop is American Celebration on Parade in Quicksburg, VA, one of the nation’s most unique museums. Enjoy a self-guided tour featuring enormous, colorful floats from iconic national parades including Presidential Inaugurals, the Philadelphia Thanksgiving Day Parade, and the Tournament of Roses. Next, descend into the breathtaking Shenandoah Caverns on a one-hour guided tour. Marvel at dramatic formations such as flowstone, stalactites, stalagmites, and the famous bacon formations. We then arrive at our lodging for the next two nights, the historic and charming Natural Bridge Hotel & Conference Center.

Day 2

Natural Bridge, Lexington Carriage Tour & Safari Adventure

After breakfast, we visit the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge, a 215-foot natural limestone arch carved by Cedar Creek. Once a sacred site to the Monacan tribe, this geological wonder is now part of Natural Bridge State Park. Take a leisurely 8/10-mile walk along the trail to view the bridge up close. Later, enjoy a one-hour horse-drawn Historical Carriage Tour through nearby Lexington, highlighting landmarks such as the Stonewall Jackson House, Lee Chapel, and the Virginia Military Institute. In the afternoon, we head to Virginia Safari Park, a 180-acre drive-through wildlife preserve. Hop aboard a guided, tractor-drawn wagon ride for an up-close encounter with over 80 species of animals. (Animal feed included!)

Day 3

Monticello & Michie Tavern

Today we visit Monticello, the iconic mountaintop home of Thomas Jefferson. Enjoy a guided 45-minute Highlights Tour through the first floor of the house, the West Lawn, and the South Wing. Learn about Jefferson’s vision for America, the complexities of life on a working plantation, and Monticello’s architectural brilliance. Afterward, explore Monticello’s gardens, grounds, and exhibits at your own pace. We’ll enjoy an included lunch at Historic Michie Tavern, where servers in colonial attire serve traditional fare in a charming 18th-century setting. Then it’s time to board the coach and begin our relaxing return journey home.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner