;

Use state and federal funding to meet civic education and literacy goals with Close Up! LEARN MORE

Founding of a Nation Middle School Program

Get a comprehensive look at U.S. history through this exclusive program that travels up and down the East Coast.

 See history come to life with visits to America’s most notable cities!

This customized middle school travel program gives students a unique chance to examine U.S. history first-hand with new friends from across the country! Explore Williamsburg, Mount Vernon, Alexandria, Gettysburg, and Philadelphia on this jam-packed, fun-filled journey to better understand the evolution of American democracy. On Close Up’s Founding of a Nation Program, students have the opportunity to: 

  • Debate and discuss the life and legacy of George Washington with an inside look at his mansion; 
  • Learn more about American history by exploring Philadelphia, the birthplace of our nation; 
  • Walk through the Battle of Gettysburg and learn more about the Civil War with a Gettysburg park ranger; and 
  • Discover Colonial Williamsburg through a guided study visit led by Williamsburg’s own historical interpreters! 

BROCHURE >    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.

  • Want to learn more about registering for this program?

EXPLORE ALL MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAMS

 

Washington, D.C.

Watch history come to life in this ultimate, hands-on D.C. 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 D.C. experience for your school. Learn More >

Washington, D.C. & New York City

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

Washington, D.C. & Philadelphia

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

Washington, D.C. & Williamsburg

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

Washington, D.C. & Mount 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 in a D.C. 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!

“

As a government teacher, it’s nice to have more resources…

for teaching media literacy and having students critically think about the information they receive.

— High School, Educator, Texas ”
Read More Experiences >
“

Close Up is a positive experience for students…

seeing themselves as having the power to influence the democratic process.

— Sheilagh, Educator, California ”
Read More Experiences >
“

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 >
“

Close Up made me realize how SIGNIFICANT my thoughts and views are…

Although everyone will not always agree, everyone has a voice and needs to be heard.

— Christie, Student, Texas ”
Read More Experiences >

671 N. Glebe Road, Suite 900
Arlington, VA 22203

703-706-3300 or 800-CLOSE UP

CST-1002082-40:
Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.

E-mail us
© 2025 Close Up Foundation. All Rights Reserved.