Election Series
Don't miss out! Close Up is thrilled to announce the return of our Premier Election Series! Register your school soon to secure your place in these once-in-a-lifetime programs!
The Capital is Our Campus
Taking place in the nation's capital, our fast paced and interactive programs offer exciting, challenging and unforgettable activities while breathing in all DC has to offer. From famous landmarks to meeting government officials, Close Up not only allows you to see your government, but to also experience it.
Become Inspired
"Close Up allows instructors to see their full potential in affecting our world’s future. We are allowed to play an integral role in giving our society thousands of future citizens who understand their civic existence and their ability to be a part of something bigger than themselves." - Aaron Price, Close Up Program Leader
College Credit
Close Up's dynamic curriculum allows you to take your educational experience even further. High school students can get a jump on the college admission process by opting to earn college credit from American University.
Enhance Your Experience
At Close Up, we customize educational experiences for schools and groups across the country each year. Whether it is an extra day in Washington, a day trip to Gettysburg or Philadelphia, or a visit to New York City after your time in DC, Close Up offers you flexibility even within our core programs.
Get Face To Face
Every year we arrange over 1,200 meetings for students and adults with their Congressional Offices during our Capitol Hill Day. Close Up students and teachers also experience their government in action and first-hand by attending Supreme Court hearings, legislative sessions, and committee meetings on the Hill.
High School Options
Close Up is more than just a tour. Our high school programs allow students to experience government in action in one of the world's most dynamic cities. Schools can also add theatre performances, day trips to area destinations, or a study visit to New York City!
Middle School Options
Close Up's one-of-a-kind middle school program allows students to experience American history through the stunning monuments, memorials, and sites in Washington, DC. Many middle schools also choose to add visits to Williamsburg, Jamestown, Philadelphia, and New York City!
Make Friends And Have Fun
Close Up is a unique blend of interaction, exploration, and fun! While both DC and Close Up have much to offer, the highlight of the trip for many of our students is living, learning, and sharing ideas with students from across the country and from all walks of life.
Program For New Americans
This week-long experiential learning program in Washington, DC, gives migrant and immigrant students a practical understanding of U.S. politics and culture. Our specially trained staff accomplishes this by encouraging communication, collaboration, and leadership.
Our Teacher Program
Welcoming educators from all 50 states and every US territory, our teacher program combines the best of peer-to-peer learning with insights and educational tools from DC's most venerable institutions. 95% of participating educators report returning re-energized and with new ways to inspire their students.
Our Top-Notch Instructors
Unlike other tour organizations, Close Up uses only trained program instructors, not contracted tour guides. Our instructors make sure that students have the most rewarding and fun experience possible while also learning valuable lessons that complement their history and government classes at home.
