Expedition Details
We've spent more than a century exploring the world, but there are plenty of treasures right in our own backyard. Culture, history, and current events converge in Washington, D.C., and National Geographic is at the heart of the action. Join our photographers, editors, and explorers to go behind-the-scenes in our capital city. Encounter the legendary terra-cotta warriors of China's First Emperor at a special exhibition at our headquarters. Venture down the halls of the Pentagon, and wander through Arlington Cemetery with one of our former editors who specializes in its history. Explore the tony streets of Georgetown on a photo walk, and dine at some of the city's most celebrated establishments.Itinerary - 4 Days
Day 1 — Washington, D.C.
Arrive in Washington, D.C. and settle into the historic Mayflower Hotel, just steps from National Geographic headquarters. Gather for a welcome dinner and an inspiring talk by National Geographic Explorer-in-Residence Wade Davis tonight.
Mayflower Hotel (D)
Day 2 — Washington, D.C.
Enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of the National Geographic Society this morning. Attend a private talk on the terra-cotta warriors of China's First Emperor, then head into our museum to see these awe-inspiring warriors for yourself. The exhibition, "Terra Cotta Warriors: Guardians of China's First Emperor," features treasures from the tomb near Xi'an, including 15 life-size warriors, as well as weapons, armor, and coins.
Enjoy lunch at the exclusive University Club. Then view the White House, the Capitol, and the iconic monuments of the National Mall. Take a private tour of the Pentagon, and later, stroll through Arlington Cemetery with former National Geographic magazine editor Robert M. Poole, author of the first comprehensive history of the cemetery. Tonight, discover one of the city's notable restaurants on your own.
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Day 3 — Washington, D.C.
Set out on a morning photo walk in Georgetown with photographer Steve St. John. Learn photography tips as you capture images of cobblestoned streets and elegant town houses. After lunch at a local bistro, take advantage of time at leisure to visit a museum or wander through Penn Quarter or Capitol Hill.
At our farewell dinner tonight at the historic Tabard Inn, Robert Poole regales us with stories of exploration and discovery from National Geographic's long history.
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Day 4 — Washington, D.C.
This morning, depart on individual flights home, or continue to explore the city on your own.
Expedition Team
Throughout this special long weekend program, you'll be joined by top National Geographic experts. See below for one of the experts you will meet during the weekend.
Wade Davis
Anthropologist and botanical explorer Wade Davis is an Explorer-in-Residence at the National Geographic Society and an honorary member of the Explorer's Club, one of 20 so named in the 100-year history of the club. Author of ten books, including the international best seller The Serpent and the Rainbow, which later was released as a motion picture, Wade has worked among dozens of indigenous cultures around the world for nearly 30 years. He is currently studying Polynesian navigation history.
Wade will join the following departure:
Mar 18 - 21, 2010
