It’s true that America is still a relatively young nation, butthat doesn’t mean that its history is anything less than exciting -something that anyone on a Washington DC tour quickly learns.

The nation’s capital is filled with historic sights and museumspacked with notable American memorabilia – in fact, a visit is theperfect way to bring the past to life, whether you’re 8 or 80. Youcan explore almost every aspect of the country’s growth anddevelopment right here – from the Native Americans who firstinhabited the region to the upheaval of colonial times to moremodern history, like World War II.

With so much to see in the surrounding historic areas of theEast Coast, it can be difficult to determine just want you want todo – and what you can’t fit in – unless you take a Washington DCtour. Companies like Tauck specialize in creating itineraries thatcapture the best of the area, and can save you up to 40 percent offwhat you’d pay if you arranged your Washington DC tourindependently.

Because the surrounding region is just as richly imbued withAmerican history, a Washington DC tour should also take in sites inPennsylvania and Virginia. These are just a few of the places thatwill immerse you in the exciting events that made America what itis today.

* Philadelphia – The City of Brotherly Love was the scene ofsome of the most important developments in early America. Get afeel for the city’s atmosphere on a carriage ride through itscobblestone streets, then visit Independence Hall and the LibertyBell.

* Gettysburg – Perhaps no place is more representative of thehardships of the Civil War than the battlegrounds at GettysburgNational Military Park. Take a tour with a National Park Serviceguide to learn about the intricacies of the decisive battle.Tauck’s Washington DC tours include a special evening event with astoryteller in period dress who tells the story of a Gettysburgcivilian caught in the fighting.

* Williamsburg – It’s easy to feel a part of history in ColonialWilliamsburg, which has been restored to look much the way it didwhen it was Virginia’s colonial capital. Explore the city withinterpreters in period dress and dine out at an authenticcolonial-era tavern.

* Mount Vernon – Visit the estate of the first President andicon of American history, George Washington. The site has beenwonderfully preserved and makes for a memorable excursion, thanksto its beautiful grounds and fascinating interactive museum.

* Washington DC – The culmination of your Washington DC tour isthe opportunity to explore the monuments and sights of the nation’scapital. Pay homage to those who have fought for freedom in WorldWar II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War, and tour the LincolnMemorial and Capitol Hill. Cap your experience with a thrillingevening of mystery at the International Spy Museum.

After experiencing a Washington DC tour that takes in thecapital and other nearby historic sites, you’ll feel more in touchwith the rich history of America.