Engaging Future Leaders
Our Next Freedom Tour Dates
-
Trip 1: April 18 - April 23 2026
-
Trip 2: April 20 - April 25 2026
Our first prep session for participants will be on Wednesday, February 11 via Zoom
Click here to find:
Freedom Tour FAQ
What is the Freedom Tour?
Freedom Tour is a constantly evolving educational journey for 8th grade middle school students designed as an integrated approach to teaching history and effectively contributing as citizens. The program culminates in a six-day trip in late spring or early summer.
QUESTIONS? Contact us at freedomtour@bathymca.org
How do students prepare for the trip?
Students meet together to learn about the places they will visit and how the history and culture of that place or time impacts our world today. Groups participate in a vision process, learn conflict resolution skills, and discuss expectations and consequences for individual and group behavior.
Where do we go?
Past trips have included visits to: 9/11 Museum and Memorial -- New York City Neighborhoods -- Ellis Island -- Liberty Island -- Lower East Side Tenement Museum -- Independence Park in Philadelphia -- Amish Country -- Lincoln, Washington, Roosevelt Presidential Memorials and Monuments -- Vietnam, Korean, World War II and Iwo Jima War Memorials -- Smithsonian -- Gettysburg National Park -- Rockefeller Center -- Apollo Theater -- Dinner Theater
Why do we take this trip?
More than a class trip and bigger than a history lesson, the program engages students in meaningful activities to build positive social competencies. As democratic ideals continue to take center-stage in international events, we find we have countless teachable moments and a heightened sense of pride in our U.S. history.
Fees
The tour fee is $1,700 for students and $1,100 for adult team leaders, a $200 enrollment fee is due at the time of registration. It is based on the length and extent of the program. The fee covers all prep meetings and materials, transportation by motor coach, meals, hotels, entrance fees and a carry pack. Financial aid is available through our YMCA assistance program. As with all Y Programs, Financial aid is available and distributed based on financial need. We want this program to be accessible to all, please reach out to freedomtour@bathymca.org to inquire about financial aid.
Questions?
To find out more about the the Freedom Tour or to bring a program to your school, email us at freedomtour@bathymca.org.