Academic Voyage: Pennsylvania Universities Tour from Washington, D.C.

Trip Overview: Set out from the political epicenter of Washington, D.C., on a three-day academic voyage that will take students into the scholarly heartlands of Pennsylvania. This tour has been meticulously designed to give students an enriching overview of the historic and academic significance of the University of Pennsylvania, Lehigh University, and Penn State University. As students traverse these campuses, they’ll dive into the institutions’ unique educational philosophies and cultural environments, creating an experience that’s as intellectually stimulating as it is thrilling.

• The University of Pennsylvania (UPenn), an Ivy League giant, is steeped in a tradition of innovation since 1740, offering a world-class interdisciplinary education in the heart of Philadelphia.
• Lehigh University in Bethlehem merges robust engineering and business programs with a strong arts curriculum, set on a campus that reflects a harmonious blend of historical and modern aesthetics.
• Penn State University in State College is a Big Ten institution known for its exuberant campus life, top-tier research initiatives, and the renowned Berkey Creamery.

Starting and Ending Point: Washington, D.C. Pick-up/Drop-off Location: Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, D.C. 20002

Itinerary and Highlights:

Day 1: Philadelphia, PA – University of Pennsylvania

• Morning: Commence with a guided expedition of UPenn’s venerable grounds, absorbing the academic prowess that permeates the campus.
• Afternoon: Journey through time at the Penn Museum, followed by relaxation in the verdant Quad.
• Evening: Revel in the gastronomic diversity of University City, pulsating with scholarly zest and cultural flair.

Day 2: Bethlehem, PA – Lehigh University

• Morning: Admire Lehigh University’s campus, a picturesque setting where gothic stone structures stand amidst cutting-edge facilities.
• Afternoon: Embrace creativity in the South Side Arts District, a vibrant quarter celebrating innovation and artistry.
• Evening: Relish dinner in Bethlehem’s historical heart, where colonial heritage meets modern culinary art.

Day 3: State College, PA – Penn State University

• Morning: Delve into the dynamic spirit of Penn State, exploring the breadth of its academic and community traditions.
• Afternoon: Enjoy a sweet interlude at the Penn State Creamery, famed for its homemade ice cream.
• Evening: Conclude with a relaxed dinner in downtown State College, a locale teeming with collegiate charm.

Accommodation: A selection of cozy yet affordable hotels will provide lodgings, each chosen for their prime locations, comfort, and amenities such as complimentary Wi-Fi to ensure relaxation and convenience.

Transportation: Travelers will enjoy the ease of a chartered bus, outfitted with amenities to ensure a comfortable journey as they connect with their peers en route to each academic landmark.

Cost Breakdown (Estimated Total Cost per Person): $390

What’s Included:

• Charter bus transportation with Wi-Fi, round-trip from Washington, D.C.
• Two nights in chosen hotels conducive to study and relaxation
• Guided campus tours full of historic and academic anecdotes
• Entry to the Penn Museum and access to the arts district
• All meals, from casual bites to fine dining, capturing local flavors
• Experienced tour conductors to enhance the learning adventure

Why This Trip Is Special: This expedition is more than a college tour; it’s a curated educational experience designed to inspire and excite the academic curiosity of prospective students. It provides a rare look at the rich tapestry of Pennsylvania’s higher education institutions, each with its own story and contributions to the American intellectual landscape. The journey from UPenn’s Ivy League corridors to Lehigh’s innovative hubs and Penn State’s vibrant community is an inspiring exploration of what the future holds for the next generation of scholars and leaders.