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

If you’re dreaming of a quick getaway that covers some of the most iconic spots in the US East Coast without the hassle of planning every detail, this 2-day tour from New York City might catch your eye. It promises a busy but rewarding itinerary, with visits to Philadelphia, Washington DC, and even Amish Country—all in just two days. We’ve taken a close look at what this experience offers, and here’s the scoop to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your travel style.

What really stands out about this tour are a couple of features that many travelers appreciate: the expert guides who bring the sites to life and the value-packed package that includes transportation, hotel, meals, and some unique experiences like a horse-drawn buggy ride. On the flip side, the tour’s packed schedule can mean long days and limited time at each stop, which might be a concern if you prefer slow travel or deep dives into each location.

This tour is best suited for those who want to see a lot in a short amount of time without the stress of organizing logistics. If you’re happy with a fast-paced but rundown of these highlights and don’t mind a tight schedule, you’ll probably find it worthwhile. It’s also suitable for travelers who value comfort, as transportation is in a luxury vehicle with Wi-Fi, and accommodations are included.

Key Points

• Efficient itinerary covers major landmarks in Philadelphia, Washington, DC, and Amish Country.
• Guides are well-reviewed for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging.
• Comfortable transport with amenities like Wi-Fi helps pass the time and stay connected.
• Includes hotel stay and breakfast, adding convenience and value.
• Long days, with early starts and late returns, require good stamina.
• Limited free time at each site means you get an overview, not a deep exploration.

What’s Included and How it Matters

This tour costs about $350 per person, which might sound like a hefty price at first glance. But when you factor in hotel, transportation, breakfast, and unique experiences like the Amish buggy ride, it’s not a bad deal for a quick whirlwind trip across three of the East Coast’s top attractions. The fact that it’s booked roughly 60 days in advance shows it’s popular among those planning ahead, especially since spots can fill up.

The tour kicks off early at 6:30 am in NYC and returns in the evening. The inclusion of Wi-Fi on the bus is a nice touch, especially for those wanting to check emails, stream, or just pass the time comfortably. The accommodation is a 3-star hotel, designed to provide decent rest after busy sightseeing days, although some reviews suggest the hotel could be improved.

Day 1: Philadelphia in All Its Historic Glory

As you leave NYC behind, the trip begins by heading through New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Expect a smooth ride in a luxury coach or van, with plenty of space and amenities. Once in Philadelphia, the first stop is the Liberty Bell Center, a must-see symbol of American independence. With just about 30 minutes here, you’ll get a quick but meaningful look at this icon—perfect for a photo and a quick glimpse into the country’s history.

Next, the tour takes you along the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and through historic districts. If you’re a film buff or athlete, the Rocky Statue and Steps are sure to be a fun highlight, with many visitors quoting how the famous scene still gets them pumped.

The real gem of the day, however, is the visit to Amish Country in Lancaster. Here, you get to experience a horse-drawn buggy ride that many reviews rave about for its authenticity. You’ll learn how the Amish live without electricity or modern technology, which can be eye-opening and a lovely change of pace from city sightseeing. Afterwards, there’s time to browse crafts and handmade products, supporting local artisans.

One reviewer noted: “The Amish portion of the tour is very interesting, and the buggy ride adds a special touch to understanding their simple lifestyle.” It’s an experience that feels more personal and less touristy, which many travelers find refreshing.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head east to Washington DC, arriving for an overnight stay near the capital. The hotel stays are generally comfortable, and breakfast is included the next morning, easing the start of a busy second day.

Day 2: The Heart of Washington’s Monuments and Museums

The second day kicks off with a peaceful visit to the Jefferson Memorial, surrounded by cherry blossom trees, making for a beautiful morning walk. From here, the tour takes you to Arlington National Cemetery, where you’ll witness the Changing of the Guard—a moving ceremony—and see the resting places of many notable figures, including the Kennedy family.

The next stops are Smithsonian Museums, specifically the Air and Space Museum and the Natural History Museum. These museums are popular for good reason—they house iconic artifacts like the Wright Brothers’ Flyer and the towering T-Rex fossils. While the museums are free, and the highlights are covered, the time allocated (about 2 hours at Air and Space and around 1 hour 15 minutes at Natural History) means you’ll get a taste but not a full deep dive.

Moving on, you visit Capitol Hill and the White House, the core of U.S. governance. Many reviews mention the thrill of seeing these landmarks, even from the outside, and the guides do a good job of explaining their significance. The afternoon is rounded out with visits to memorials dedicated to Lincoln, Korea, and Vietnam, providing a somber but essential part of understanding American history.

The tour wraps up with a drive back across the river to NYC, arriving in the evening, tired but full of impressions.

Real Traveler Feedback

Review insights paint an honest picture. Many travelers praise the guides, like Moses, for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience more engaging. One reviewer said, “Our guide Moses was very knowledgeable and friendly,” which seems to be a common sentiment.

Others highlight the value for money, especially when considering all that’s included: hotel, transport, tickets, meals, and activities. “We got to see many attractions and wouldn’t have been able to do this on our own,” one reviewer shared, emphasizing the convenience factor.

A few pointed out some drawbacks, like long travel times and some scheduling issues. One noted, “The trip back home felt a little too long,” which can be tiring after two full days. There are also comments about the hotel quality, with some suggesting it could be better or more centrally located, but overall, it’s adequate for a quick overnight stay.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling in a luxury vehicle with Wi-Fi makes a big difference in keeping the journey comfortable and connected. The group size, capped at 50 travelers, helps keep the experience intimate enough to enjoy the guides’ commentary without being overwhelming.

The bus or van is a clear highlight—it’s comfortable, air-conditioned, and equipped with Wi-Fi, which is appreciated during the long drives. This means you can catch up on messages or stream a playlist, making the hours pass more quickly.

Hotel & Meals

While the included hotel is rated 3-star, most reviews describe it as comfortable enough for a one-night stay. The breakfast, included in the package, is a convenient start to the day. Some reviews praise the breakfast as “full and satisfying,” which is helpful when you’re about to spend hours sightseeing.

Dining options beyond breakfast are not included, so planning for lunch and dinner at your own expense is wise. There are plenty of options in Washington DC and Amish Country, but don’t expect gourmet cuisine—mostly quick, casual spots suitable for travelers on a schedule.

Pricing and Overall Value

For $350 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of some of the US’s most historic and iconic locations. Considering that all major attractions, accommodation, transportation, and some activities are included, it’s a reasonable price for travelers eager to maximize a short time.

Of course, the packed schedule means less time at each site, but that’s a tradeoff many are willing to accept for the convenience and coverage. This tour is a solid choice for first-timers or those with limited time who want a broad overview.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This experience is well-suited for first-time visitors eager to see major landmarks without the hassle of planning. If you’re comfortable with a fast-paced schedule and want a comfortable, guided trip, it’s a good pick. It also works if you’re traveling with a group or family who prefer organized tours over DIY exploring.

However, if you’re someone who enjoys deep dives into each city or more relaxed travel, this might feel rushed. The long days and tight schedule aren’t ideal for those who want to linger at each monument or museum.

The Sum Up

For those craving a well-organized, all-inclusive trip that covers a lot of ground in a short amount of time, this 2-day tour from NYC delivers. It’s especially appealing if you’re interested in history, iconic landmarks, and experiencing Amish life firsthand—all without the stress of planning.

The knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation make the experience enjoyable, and the included hotel and meals add value. Of course, it’s a busy itinerary, so travelers should be prepared for long days and limited free time at each stop.

Ultimately, this tour is a fantastic option for first-time visitors, history buffs, or anyone wanting a quick, comprehensive taste of Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Amish Country—with the convenience of guided logistics and a comfortable ride.

FAQ

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

Is parking available at the meeting point?
There is a parking lot nearby, but parking rates apply. It’s generally recommended to use public transportation or a ride-share to start your day.

What kind of vehicle will I travel in?
Depending on the group size, you’ll travel in either a comfortable air-conditioned bus or van equipped with Wi-Fi.

Is Wi-Fi available during the trip?
Yes, Wi-Fi is available on full-size coaches, so you can stay connected during long stretches, though streaming might be limited.

Can I bring my infant?
Yes, children under 2 travel free as lap children with a paying adult. Be sure to specify if bringing an infant in the “Special Requirements” at checkout.

What if I want to bring a stroller?
Strollers are welcome; just note your need for space with the stroller’s approximate folded size during booking.

Are car seats available?
Yes, if you need a car seat, please indicate this in your booking. The tour provides car seats with at least 24 hours’ notice.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive at the meeting point by 6:30 am; the tour departs promptly to cover all stops efficiently.

Travel smart, pack your enthusiasm, and get ready for a whirlwind adventure that hits some of the best sights on the East Coast—all in just two days!