Philadelphia, Washington DC & Amish Country, 2-Days from NYC

Traveling from New York City and craving a quick yet comprehensive glimpse of some of the East Coast’s most iconic sights? This 2-day tour to Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Amish Country promises a packed itinerary designed to maximize your experience without the hassle of planning. We’ve looked into what travelers can expect, and here’s the scoop — with all its ups and downs.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it combines important historic sites with authentic cultural glimpses and the convenience of luxurious transportation. Plus, including breakfast, hotel stay, and even a buggy ride in Amish Country helps make the experience feel like a true getaway rather than just a rushed sightseeing dash.

However, a potential consideration is the long travel hours between stops — especially on the return leg — which might test your patience or energy levels. This tour generally suits those eager to see a lot in a short time and who don’t mind a bit of a fast-paced schedule.

Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable, guided introduction to these highlights, this tour offers a practical way to check a lot off your list while traveling comfortably. Perfect for travelers who prioritize guided insights and value for money, but less ideal if you prefer more relaxed, spontaneous explorations.

Key Points

• Comfortable transportation with Wi-Fi on the bus makes long hours on the road more bearable.
• Guides are praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding value through informative commentary.
• The itinerary covers major landmarks in Philadelphia and Washington, plus a genuine Amish buggy ride.
• Accommodation and breakfast are included, simplifying logistics and budgeting.
• Some reviews mention long travel times and group size variations, impacting the pacing of the tour.
• The price of $350 per person is seen as reasonable given the inclusions, but travelers should weigh the value of the extensive itinerary.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Getting Started in NYC

The tour departs from 330 W 42nd St, a location easily accessible by public transportation or ride-share. While there’s no hotel pickup, the central meeting point simplifies logistics, especially if you’re staying nearby. Expect to board a luxurious, Wi-Fi-equipped vehicle — either a large bus or a van — designed to keep passengers comfortable during the roughly four to five hours of travel to Philadelphia.

Day 1: From New York to Philadelphia and Amish Country

First stop: Liberty Bell Center
We love the way this stop kicks off the tour with a visit to one of America’s most recognizable symbols of independence. With free admission, it’s accessible and inspiring. You’ll also see Constitution Square and Congress Hall, and enjoy a brief stroll along Elfreth’s Alley, the oldest continuously inhabited street in America. Expect about 30 minutes here, which feels just enough to soak in the history without feeling rushed.

Second stop: Rocky Statue & Philadelphia Tour
Next, a panoramic tour of the city takes you past landmarks like the financial district and Benjamin Franklin Parkway. The highlight for many is the iconic “Rocky Steps” and statue. This is more than just a photo op; it’s a nod to Philadelphia’s pop culture and athletic spirit. The tour lasts about 20 minutes, giving you a glimpse of Philly’s diverse neighborhoods.

Third stop: Amish Country
A highlight unique to this tour is the visit to Lancaster County, home to the Amish community. Here, you experience a horse-drawn buggy ride through the farms, which offers an authentic taste of Amish life — simple, peaceful, and remarkably different from city experiences. You learn about their self-sufficient lifestyle, avoiding modern conveniences like electricity and telephones. Afterwards, you have time to browse the marketplace, where local artisans sell handmade arts and crafts. This segment is especially appreciated, with some travelers describing the Amish visit as “very interesting” and “worth seeing.”

The Amish part of the tour is weather-dependent and may change based on the season or conditions, so flexibility is key. The tour spends about 2 hours and 30 minutes in Amish Country, enough for a meaningful experience without overextending the day.

Travel to Washington DC
In the late afternoon, you leave Lancaster and head east, arriving in DC in the evening. The transfer is about 2 hours and 30 minutes, during which many find the Wi-Fi and comfortable seats useful for catching up on photos or relaxing.

Day 2: Exploring Washington DC’s Highlights

First stop: Jefferson Memorial
Starting the day at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial provides a stunning view by the Tidal Basin, especially if cherry blossoms are in bloom. It’s a peaceful spot with beautiful architecture, and many appreciate the included 20-minute visit that gets you close to the key sites.

Arlington National Cemetery
Next, a visit to Arlington introduces you to American military history and patriotism. The Changing of the Guard is a solemn tradition, and the Kennedy gravesite adds emotional weight. Note that a passport or U.S. ID is required for entry, which is a small hurdle but necessary for security reasons.

Smithsonian Museums
You’ll visit two major Smithsonian museums:
– The Air and Space Museum, home to historic aircraft like the Wright Brothers’ Flyer and Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis, is a crowd favorite.
– The Natural History Museum features dinosaur fossils, including a T-Rex and Triceratops. Many reviews mention how much they enjoyed these exhibits, especially the “Deep Time” display.

Expect about 2 hours in the Air and Space and around 75 minutes in Natural History. The museums are free, making this a fantastic budget-friendly highlight.

Capitol Hill and White House
A brief stop at Capitol Hill offers a glimpse of the seat of American government, and the nearby White House provides an iconic photo opportunity. While tours inside aren’t included, seeing these symbols of democracy enriches the experience.

Memorials & Reflection
Later, you walk among the Lincoln, Martin Luther King Jr., Korea, and Vietnam Memorials. These are poignant spots that add depth to your understanding of American history and values.

Wrap-up and Return
By early evening, the tour heads back to NYC, with an estimated arrival time in the early evening. The return journey is a good time to review photos or relax after a fast-paced couple of days.

Transportation and Accommodation

The transportation aspect stands out as a particular strength. The luxurious, Wi-Fi-enabled vehicles help pass the long hours comfortably, and the group sizes stay within 50 travelers, balancing social opportunity with manageable logistics.

Overnight accommodations are included, with a full hotel stay and breakfast. While the hotel brands can vary, reviews mention the hotel quality is “superb”, making this part of the trip feel like a genuine overnight stay rather than just a day trip with a bed thrown in.

Value for Money

At $350 per person, this tour offers a lot of value considering the included transportation, hotel, breakfast, and unique experiences like the Amish buggy ride. It’s priced competitively against other guided tours and provides a convenient package for busy travelers seeking a broad overview.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for history buffs, first-timers, or anyone who wants to pack in a lot without the stress of planning. The guided format benefits those who appreciate expert insights and structured sightseeing. It’s less suited for travelers who prefer more local, spontaneous discoveries or a relaxed pace.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from NYC to Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Amish Country is a solid choice for travelers eager to see iconic landmarks with minimal hassle. It combines authentic cultural experiences, comprehensive sightseeing, and comfortable transportation, all bundled into an accessible price point.

You’ll love the knowledgeable guides, the well-organized itinerary, and the chance to visit multiple states and landmarks in a short time. The Amish buggy ride stands out as a rare and memorable experience, while the DC highlights give you a taste of American political history.

That said, expect some long travel hours and a fast pace — perfect for those who want to maximize their trip but might be tiring for anyone craving a more leisurely experience. If you’re comfortable with group tours and busy schedules, this package offers great value and a broad overview of America’s eastern highlights.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included for this tour?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You’ll need to meet at the designated starting point at 330 W 42nd St, NYC.

What kind of vehicle do you travel in?
Depending on the group size, you’ll ride in either a comfortable full-sized bus or a van, both equipped with Wi-Fi for your convenience.

Is Wi-Fi available during the tour?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on the bus or coach, but keep in mind it’s meant for browsing and basic use — not streaming videos.

Can I bring children or infants?
Yes, children under 2 travel free as lap children. Just specify the age when booking, and note that a responsible adult must oversee their behavior. Strollers are allowed if you note them in advance.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegetarian options and other dietary needs can be accommodated during the included breakfast and meals at your own expense.

Do I need ID to visit Arlington Cemetery?
Yes, a passport or U.S. ID is required to enter Arlington, due to security protocols.

How long does the tour last, and when do we return?
The tour spans two days, with return to NYC in the early evening of the second day, depending on traffic and conditions.

This guided tour offers a practical, well-rounded way to experience some of the nation’s most storied sites in a short period. Perfect for travelers who want a rundown with guided insights, it’s an enjoyable way to make the most of your time between New York and these historic spots.