Come 2026, the United States will celebrate its semiquincentennial, which marks the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. This milestone is one that several destinations around the country are commemorating in a variety of ways—many of which are perfect for traveling students and educators looking for a once-in-a-lifetime historical experience.
According to David Shriver, ETI’s Trip Analyst, the U.S. semiquincentennial is a significant moment for traveling educators and their students because it will provide a unique opportunity to explore and reflect on the nation's history, culture, and development in a way that connects past, present, and future.
“There will be nationwide celebrations and programs as the country commemorates its 250th birthday: Special events, exhibits, and educational programs designed to engage students may include everything from reenactments to interactive learning opportunities about the founding principles of the nation, such as the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the struggles for civil rights,” Shriver said. “Traveling educators can incorporate these events into their curriculum, enriching students' understanding of both the history and the relevance of the past in today’s world.”
Visiting these historic sites in person is truly a special experience, especially during this time, with Shriver noting that by physically visiting places where critical moments in American history happened, students can form a deeper connection to the material.
“This is an opportunity to highlight the nation’s founding ideals, democracy, liberty, and equality, and how they continue to shape contemporary American society. Educators can use this milestone to engage students in discussions about civic responsibility, the role of government, and social justice,” Shriver added. “Taking a trip at such a historically significant time will allow students to see how the U.S. fits into a larger global context. America’s history of immigration, global influence, and its role in world affairs provides valuable lessons in international relations and cultural exchange—topics that can be explored both within and beyond American borders.”
Come along as we explore some of the places and ways you and your students can get in on the commemorative action!
PHILADELPHIA
The birthplace of American democracy, Philadelphia’s history makes itself known around almost every corner—whether it’s the iconic Liberty Bell, Congress Hall, the National Constitution Center, Elfreth's Alley (one of the oldest continuously inhabited residential streets in the nation) or otherwise. Perhaps the centerpiece of the whole celebration is Independence Hall, where in 1776, Benjamin Franklin, Thomas Jefferson, and delegates from the Thirteen Colonies signed the Declaration of Independence—a site students can visit themselves today.
Be sure to venture inside The Museum of the American Revolution for their new exhibition, The Declaration’s Journey, which opens in October 2025 and celebrates the Declaration of Independence’s 250-year legacy and global influence on independence movements through rare artifacts and stories. Also worth noting is ArtPhilly’s What Now in May 2026—a city-wide, multidisciplinary arts festival meant to spark civic dialogue on the nation’s evolution since 1776 through a showcase of Philadelphia artists and neighborhoods.
WASHINGTON, DC
In the nation’s capital, there’s much to explore, especially during the U.S. semiquincentennial—and DC’s rich history and local culture come alive in endless ways! Visiting students will want to venture to the National Portrait Gallery to view the permanent America’s Presidents portrait gallery; explore the DAR Museum’s exhibit, Fighting for Freedom: Black Craftspeople and the Pursuit of Independence; step inside In Pursuit of Life, Liberty & Happiness at the National Museum of American History—a bold exhibition exploring the ideals of the Declaration of Independence; and more.
Of course, don’t miss notable monuments and sites like the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Ford’s Theatre & Petersen House and more.
BOSTON
In Boston, Massachusetts, students are invited to explore the birthplace of the American Revolution through a variety of ways, from special reenactments to citywide celebrations and more. Can’t-miss stops include following The Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile red-brick trail through Boston’s historic neighborhoods that tells the story of the American Revolution and beyond; and The Black Heritage Trail, a 1.6-mile trail of 10 sites throughout the Beacon Hill neighborhood, showcasing the homes and community buildings of a thriving Black community formed during the nation's earliest years.
Be sure to also include Boston Tea Party Ships & Museum, which showcases a live theatrical performance reenacting the "single most important event leading up to The American Revolution," with state-of-the-art technology and an original tea crate from the Boston Tea Party in 1773.
VIRGINIA
Referred to as the Cradle of American History, Virginia is an excellent choice for students interested in getting their history fix. One stellar option is the Virginia International Tattoo, presented by the Virginia Arts Festival. The Third largest international tattoo in the world features over 800 cast members from several different countries and branches of the U.S. military, along with a variety of performers from bands, drill teams, dancers and choirs. From custom pre-performance opportunities to behind-the-scenes immersive learning experiences, opportunities abound.
Be sure to also consider Sail 250 and Norfolk Harborfest to get a taste of why Coastal Virginia is recognized as a significant region in America’s revolution; tours of Jamestown Settlement and Colonial Williamsburg—the nation's largest living history museum; the storytelling of America’s revolution at the American Revolution Museum at Yorktown; and more.
NEW YORK
Any history buff will tell you: New York has played an immense and vital role in America’s journey to independence. Did you know? Nearly a third of American Revolution battles were fought on New York soil! It’s here in New York that students could do things like visit the Saratoga region to connect with the events that led to America’s Turning Point at the beautiful Saratoga National Historical Park; walk in the footsteps of those who fought at Fort Ticonderoga in the Adirondacks Region; visit Seneca Falls, home to the first Women's Rights Convention in 1848; and more.
Not to be missed is Sail4th 250, a historic gathering of international tall ships and naval vessels taking place July 2026. This six-day event will feature the largest international flotilla of tall ships and naval vessels ever assembled, with eight to 10 million spectators expected to line the 15-mile New York/New Jersey shoreline to take in the splendor.
Not sure exactly what kind of “America 250th Anniversary” trip you want to pursue? No problem. All of these incredible opportunities and much more are available to your students, and ETI is your partner in walking side by side during the planning process and beyond. We know all the ways to make a trip like this come together in a seamless and stress-free way, in addition to how much educational value each and every trip holds.
“In short, America 250 offers a rare moment for traveling educators and students to learn about the nation's past in a dynamic, interactive way, while also considering how that history will shape the future,” Shriver said in closing.
Reach out to us today to let ETI help plan your unforgettable 250th U.S. Anniversary trip!
Courtesy of ETI.
