The nation’s capital makes a fantastic destination for a school music trip. Whether you are talking about band, orchestra or choir, there are many possible performance venues and appreciative audiences. Aside from the performance opportunities, however, there is no place like Washington, D.C., when it comes to learning about the United States federal government and the history of our country. Students can visit the White House, Capitol building, the National Mall and all its monuments, as well as Arlington National Cemetery.

Washington, D.C., is home to the Smithsonian Institution, a world-renowned museum and research complex that consists of 17 museums, galleries and a zoo. The District of Columbia is conveniently close to amusement parks like Kings Dominion and Six Flags America, so kids can let loose and celebrate when their performance is over. School groups may also want to include side tours to Mount Vernon, Williamsburg, Gettysburg or other historical points of interest.