NYC: Philadelphia, Washington DC & Amish Country 2-Day Tour

Traveling from New York to the nation’s heartland for just two days might seem ambitious, but this guided tour makes it surprisingly doable—and rewarding. We haven’t taken this trip ourselves, but based on the detailed reviews and itinerary, it’s clear this experience offers a mix of history, culture, and charming rural life that many travelers will appreciate.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the knowledgeable guides who make history come alive with engaging commentary. Second, the stunning sights in both Philadelphia and Washington DC, from iconic landmarks to poignant memorials. Lastly, the authentic Amish buggy ride that adds a genuine touch of rural Americana.

One aspect to consider is the pace—it’s quite fast, with many highlights crammed into just two days. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, this might feel a bit rushed. However, for those eager to see the essentials in a short time, it’s a perfect choice.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive snapshot of these key US cities and enjoy a taste of countryside life without sacrificing comfort or convenience.

This experience made our article of Discover 16 Great 2 Day Tours In New York City.

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Key Points

Visit major historical landmarks in Philadelphia and Washington, DC.
Enjoy a genuine Amish buggy ride and explore local handicraft markets.
Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and engaging storytelling.
All logistics are handled—round-trip transport, hotel stay, and entry fees—making it a hassle-free experience.
The tour hits the highlights but keeps a manageable pace for a two-day trip.
Price for value: at $340, it offers a lot of sights with comfortable transport and a hotel stay.

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An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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Starting Out in New York

The tour kicks off early, outside the Port Authority bus terminal on 42nd street at 6:30 AM. This early start is typical for short getaways, but it means you’ll need to be prepared for a full, packed day right from the get-go. The round-trip transportation is included, so the long bus ride becomes part of the experience, with free Wi-Fi available on all buses to keep you connected or entertained.

Philadelphia: The Birthplace of America

Once you arrive in Philadelphia, the tour offers a panoramic city tour, which is a smart way to cover a lot of ground quickly. You’ll see the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and Elfert Alley, which are perfect for snapping memorable photos. The guide’s commentary here, as noted in reviews, is lively and informative—adding context to the city’s iconic sites.

One highlight is the Liberty Bell, a symbol of American independence, and the Constitution Square and Hall, where you can get a sense of the nation’s founding principles. The inclusion of the Rocky Steps, made famous by the movies, adds a fun, recognizable touch that many find amusing.

Reviewers mention that guides like Nick O’Keeffe, who was praised for his expertise and friendliness, really elevate the experience. They make the history accessible and keep the group engaged, which makes the whirlwind tour feel more personal.

Amish Country: A Glimpse into Rural Life

After exploring Philadelphia, the tour takes you into Amish Country for a buggy ride—a true highlight for many. This part of the trip offers a chance to see rural Pennsylvania and experience a slower pace of life. The authentic buggy ride provides insights into Amish traditions, and the opportunity to browse handicrafts at a local market adds a tactile, tangible element to the trip.

Guests note that the Amish experience was a definite highlight, with one reviewer calling it “a great experience.” It’s a chance to see a different side of American culture—simple, peaceful, and rooted in tradition.

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Washington DC: The Nation’s Capital

Arriving in Washington DC, the tour covers the major political and historical landmarks. You’ll see Capitol Hill, the Senate, and the White House from the outside—perfect photo ops and a reminder of the political machinery behind the nation.

The visit includes the Air and Space Museum (which, due to renovations, is temporarily replaced with the Natural History Museum), as well as the Lincoln, Washington, Korea, and Vietnam Memorials. These memorials are poignant and well-curated, offering meaningful reflections on American history.

Guests praise the guides for their engaging storytelling here, with one mentioning that the tour was “well organized” and the stops just long enough to enjoy without feeling rushed. The hotel in Washington DC, while a bit remote from the city’s central attractions, is deemed comfortable and suitable for an overnight stay, as one reviewer noted.

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Practicalities and Value

All entry fees, hotel taxes, and the hotel stay are included in the $340 price tag, which many find reasonable considering the scope of the trip. Breakfast is included, saving some morning hassle, but meals outside of that are on your own. The tour is wheelchair accessible and offers live guides in multiple languages, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

The group size appears manageable, with some reviews mentioning small groups that foster more personal interactions. The tour operates with a flexible booking policy—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a refund—and the option to reserve now and pay later adds convenience.

The Overall Experience

Guests consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who bring history to life and provide insights that aren’t in the guidebooks. The balance of sightseeing and free time—like browsing handicrafts or grabbing a bite—keeps the trip engaging without feeling too rushed.

Some criticisms include the long bus rides and the hotel’s location being a bit far from downtown Washington DC, which might require an extra cab or metro ride if you want to explore in the evening. One reviewer also mentioned a minor issue with the bus’s bathroom odor, but this did not detract significantly from the overall experience.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This adventure is perfect for history buffs who want a quick but comprehensive look at some of America’s most iconic cities. It’s also great for culture enthusiasts eager to see Amish traditions firsthand. If you’re OK with a fast-paced schedule and want an all-inclusive package that takes care of transportation, hotels, and entry fees, this offers excellent value.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, immersive experience or have mobility concerns, you might find the pace a little too brisk. Still, for those on a tight schedule or first-time visitors eager to hit the highlights, this tour delivers a compact and memorable overview.

FAQs

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins at 6:30 AM outside the Port Authority bus terminal on 42nd street, so be prepared for an early start.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transportation from NYC is part of the package, along with free Wi-Fi on the buses.

What’s included in the price?
All entry fees, hotel taxes, one night’s hotel stay in Washington DC, breakfast, sightseeing tours, and the Amish buggy ride are included.

Are meals provided?
No, meals outside breakfast are not included, so you’ll need to plan for lunch and dinner on your own.

Is this tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What language guides are available?
Guides are available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, Italian, Portuguese, Chinese, Hebrew, and Japanese.

How long is the hotel stay?
One night in Washington DC, with the hotel chosen by the tour operator, is included.

What if the Air and Space Museum is closed?
The tour will visit the Natural History Museum instead, due to ongoing renovations.

This 2-day guided trip from NYC to Philadelphia, Washington DC, and Amish Country offers a well-rounded snapshot of American history, culture, and rural traditions. The combination of expert guides, thoughtful stops, and included logistics makes it a practical choice for first-time visitors or those with limited time. While the quick pace isn’t for everyone, many travelers find it a rewarding way to see key highlights and enjoy authentic experiences, like the Amish buggy ride.

If you’re looking for an efficient, engaging, and reasonably priced way to explore these iconic destinations without the hassle of planning every detail, this tour could be just what you need.