Middle and High School Student Travel Programs

Live and learn in the nation’s capital!

Our four-day/three-night Washington Middle School Program is more than just an educational tour of DC’s famous monuments and memorials. Students examine the people, events, debates, and enduring questions that have forged our form of government.

Guided by our highly trained program instructors, Close Up students have the opportunity to:

Discuss the events that have shaped American history through visits to DC’s must-see sites;
Engage with peers to debate the most pressing issues facing our nation in an exciting Mock Congress;
Discover Capitol Hill and experience the legislative process by visiting the congressional galleries;
Explore the world-renowned Smithsonian museums where our country’s history, art, and culture come alive; and
Make lifelong friendships and exchange ideas with students from around the country!

BROCHURE > EN ESPAÑOL > VIDEO >

Participation in a Close Up program requires parent or guardian approval for any participant under 18 years of age. Learn how we keep all students safe, secure, and supervised on every program.

READY TO COME TO DC?

EXPLORE ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Washington, DC

Watch history come to life in this ultimate, hands-on DC experience! Learn More >

Fourth of July 2025

Celebrate Independence Day with Close Up in D.C. and Philadelphia! Learn More >

Customize a Program for Your School

Partner with us to design a customized DC experience for your school. Learn More >

Washington, DC & New York City

Explore the inspiring landmarks, monuments, and memorials in two iconic cities! Learn More >

Washington, DC & Philadelphia

Journey through history by exploring these important American cities. Learn More >

Washington, DC & Williamsburg

Discuss the evolution of American democracy in visits to two of our nation’s most historical cities. Learn More >

Washington, DC & Mt. Vernon

Experience U.S. history up close with visits to our nation’s capital and the estate of our first president. Learn More >

New Americans Program

Discover our nation’s diverse heritage on this DC program geared toward immigrant and migrant students. Learn More >

Local Programs

Start a local program in your area focused on state and local history! Learn More >

Close Up has decades of grant experience; contact us today for assistance with using your federal funds!

“

Close Up brought me CLOSER to politics…

the entire notion no longer seemed obscure. I became very involved in politics on the local and national level.

— Margaret, Student, New York ”

Read More Experiences >

“

I’m truly blown away by what Close Up’s been able to accomplish in the last two weeks during IMPACT 2020…

The material seems very high level, and my daughter’s been very motivated to participate every day. I wanted to be sure to commend the staff on providing such a great experience!

— Alison, Parent, MA ”

Read More Experiences >

“