5th Grade Washington DC Field Trips for North Carolina Schools
A 5th grade Washington DC field trip is a memorable milestone, but planning it can feel daunting. We partner with North Carolina schools to create well paced, curriculum aligned DC trips with transparent pricing and hands on support from start to finish.


Washington, DC
5th Grade Sample Itinerary for NC Schools
Day 1
-
Explore the iconic Smithsonian museums on the National Mall, including the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, and Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
-
View the Declaration of Independence and the Bill of Rights at the National Archives
-
Capture a group photo in front of the White House
Day 2
-
Enjoy a guided walking tour of Washington DC’s monuments and memorials, including the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial
-
Choose from enrichment experiences such as the National Museum of the American Indian, International Spy Museum, Smithsonian National Zoo, or Ford's Theatre
-
Evening visit to the Pentagon 9/11 Memorial
Day 3
-
Guided walking tour of Capitol Hill, including the Supreme Court Building and Library of Congress, followed by a guided tour of the United States Capitol
-
Visit Arlington National Cemetery and witness the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Why 5th Grade Washington DC Trips Are Different
5th grade Washington DC trips require a different approach than trips designed for older students.
Younger scholars need thoughtful pacing, manageable walking distances, and structured days that balance learning with rest. The 5th grade curriculum also focuses on different historical themes and learning objectives than middle or high school trips, which is why we intentionally plan experiences that align with what students are studying in the classroom.
We work closely with each school to fully customize the itinerary, ensuring the trip reflects their academic goals, student needs, and comfort level while providing the support families expect for a first overnight experience.
Common Questions About 5th Grade Washington DC Trips
Is Washington DC appropriate for 5th grade students?
Yes, when the itinerary is designed with age-appropriate pacing, structured activities, and enough adult support. DC offers hands-on history and civics experiences that align closely with 5th grade curriculum standards.
How far in advance should schools start planning?
Most schools begin planning 8–12 months in advance to allow time for approvals, fundraising, and family communication. We help schools map out a realistic timeline from the start.
How many chaperones are typically needed for a 5th grade DC trip?
Because 5th graders are younger and often experiencing overnight travel for the first time, having adequate adult support is important. In a perfect world, a 1:3 to 1:6 chaperone-to-student ratio tends to work best for this age group. This allows for smoother transitions, better supervision, and more support during busy sightseeing days. That said, chaperone needs can vary based on group size and school policies.
Can the trip be customized for our school?
Yes, every 5th grade Washington DC trip we plan is built around your school’s unique needs, budget, and desired activities.









