Pittsburgh Returns to Israel
Combined Congregational Trip

Led by Rabbis Daniel Fellman, Aaron Meyer, and Alex Greenbaum

Nov 10, 2025 - Nov 20, 2025

  • DESTINATION Israel
  • Who's Going Adults Only
  • Trip Type Congregational
  • Duration 11 DAYS
  • Group Size 30+
  • Price From $3,970
Program is tentative and subject to change. Connect with our Customer Care Team by calling: (888) 230-6008 Mon.-Thur. from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time (ET).

YOUR journey

J² crafts journeys of inspiration, education, and Jewish connections to Israel and worldwide. We are guided by a simple but powerful concept: No two trips are the same; each experience should be personal, meaningful, and backed by superb service. Travel is not just about the places you visit, but the connections you make along the way.

  •   Active
  •   Archaeology
  •   Art & Culture
  •   Food & Wine
  •   Current Affairs
  •   Nature Walks
  •   UNESCO Heritage Sites

Program Itinerary

DAY 1
THE JOURNEY BEGINS
Mon. Nov 10, 2025
  • Depart the US.
Overnight: Flight
DAY 2
WELCOME TO ISRAEL: FIRST IMPRESSIONS
Tue. Nov 11, 2025
  • Arrive at Ben-Gurion International Airport and meet your J² Expert Educator, who will guide you through this exciting journey of discovery, education, and inspiration.
  • Check into the hotel in Tel Aviv.
  • Visit Jaffa Lookout for a panoramic introduction to Tel Aviv and an overview of your journey.
  • Enjoy a welcome dinner and orientation with your Rabbis and J² Expert Educator at a local restaurant.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Dinner
DAY 3
A PEOPLE AND A LAND: EVOLVING UNDERSTANDINGS OF ZIONISM
Wed. Nov 12, 2025
  • Meet with Dr. Einat Wilf, former MK and leading thinker on Israel, Zionism, foreign policy, and education.
  • Walk along the Independence Trail in Tel Aviv and embark on a remarkable journey that begins with the founding of Tel Aviv in 1909 and ends with the establishment of Israel in 1948.
  • Discover the local art scene with murals and graffiti across Tel Aviv’s streets.
  • Visit Nahalat Binyamin, Tel Aviv’s arts and crafts market, followed by the vibrant Carmel Market.
  • Experience Jewish life at the ANU Museum of the Jewish People, showcasing the diverse stories and cultures of Jewish communities throughout history.
  • Visit Hostages Square to reflect on Israel's struggle to bring home all hostages.
Overnight: Tel Aviv Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4
LIVING ON THE EDGE: THE CHALLENGE OF LIVING NEAR GAZA
Thu. Nov 13, 2025
  • Check out of the hotel.
  • Drive to Ashkelon.
  • SOULdier Recharge Experience: Visit an FIDF SOULdier Recharge program to hear firsthand from IDF combat soldiers about their experiences, challenges, and the critical role this initiative plays in their mental resilience and recovery. Gain insight into how the program provides psychological support, fosters unit cohesion, and strengthens soldiers’ well-being.
  • Travel to Sderot, a town on Israel’s border with the Gaza Strip. Meet with a local resident to hear firsthand accounts of life in this tense region.
  • Visit the memorial site for victims of the Nova music festival attack, a somber tribute to the lives lost during a festival that was meant to bring joy but became a tragedy.
  • Enter Jerusalem and stop at the Haas Promenade for a stunning panoramic view of the city, followed by a Shehechiyanu blessing to celebrate your arrival in the Holy City.
  • Check into the hotel.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5
MEMORY AND HOPE: YAD VASHEM AND SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM
Fri. Nov 14, 2025
  • Visit the Yad Vashem complex, the Jewish National Memorial to the six million Jewish victims of the Holocaust, including:
    • The Avenue of the Righteous.
    • The Historical Museum.
    • The Children’s Memorial.
    • A concluding Memorial Service.
  • Visit the Machaneh Yehudah market, Jerusalem’s bustling and vibrant marketplace, where you can experience the city's unique energy and indulge in a wide variety of local foods, spices, and fresh produce.
  • Join Jerusalem in welcoming Shabbat with Kabbalat Shabbat services at various locations, accompanied by rabbis.
  • Shabbat dinner at the hotel with Rabbi Dr. Danny Schiff, the Foundation Scholar at the Jewish Federation of Greater Pittsburgh.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 6
SHABBAT IN JERUSALEM: A TIME FOR REFLECTION AND EXPLORATION
Sat. Nov 15, 2025
  • Spend a free Shabbat in Jerusalem, including the following options:
    • The Tower of David Museum for a walk through the city’s history.
    • The Israel Museum.
    • The Biblical Zoo.
    • Explore on your own the Old City Ramparts (a voucher will be provided).
  • Devote time to mark the end of Shabbat with a group Havdalah with Rabbi Ezra Ende, the former associate rabbi at Temple Sinai and the leader of Kehilat HaDror, an egalitarian Reform Jewish community serving local Jerusalemite families and individuals.
  • Spend the evening at Ben-Yehuda pedestrian mall or Emek Refaim Street in the German Colony for some free time.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7
CITY OF LAYERS: EXPLORING ANCIENT AND MODERN JERUSALEM
Sun. Nov 16, 2025
  • Presentation with Journalist and Author Matti Friedman: Engage in a thought-provoking discussion with acclaimed journalist and author Matti Friedman as he analyzes the profound shifts in Israeli society, politics, and security since October 7. Drawing on his extensive experience covering Israel and the Middle East, Friedman will explore how the events of that day reshaped national consciousness, impacted regional dynamics, and influenced global perceptions of Israel.
  • Exploring the City of David with Emek Shaveh: Tour one of Jerusalem’s most significant archaeological sites with Emek Shaveh, an organization dedicated to protecting cultural heritage and promoting an inclusive historical narrative. Gain a deeper understanding of how archaeology shapes perspectives on history, identity, and politics in Jerusalem, and discuss the impact of heritage preservation in contested areas.
  • Walk through the Second Temple-period tunnel under the Old City’s walls and visit the Jerusalem Archaeological Park.
  • Visit Hurva Square and the iconic Hurva Synagogue, one of the most significant places of worship in Jerusalem’s Jewish Quarter.
  • Explore the Western Wall Tunnel, which unveils fascinating archaeological discoveries that deepen our understanding of Jerusalem’s past.
Overnight: Jerusalem Meals: Breakfast
DAY 8
BRIDGING NARRATIVES: EXPLORING CHALLENGES AND CONNECTIONS
Mon. Nov 17, 2025
  • Check out of the hotel.
  • Mount Herzl is Israel's central military cemetery and hosts the graves of the leaders of the nation. Over the last several months, the recently fallen have joined this sacred place. Visit Mount Herzl and contend with the human price paid by Israeli families and the country in the Israel-Hamas War.
  • Visit to the National Memorial Hall for Israel's Fallen Soldiers: Pay tribute to Israel’s fallen soldiers at this solemn and architecturally striking memorial on Mount Herzl. The hall’s unique design features an eternal flame and a continuously illuminated wall inscribed with the names of every soldier who has died in service to Israel. Gain a deeper understanding of Israel’s history, sacrifice, and resilience through this powerful and moving experience.
  • Discover the Israel National Library, a cultural and intellectual hub preserving centuries of Jewish creativity. Explore its vast collections and learn about the national initiative documenting the events of October 7, 2023.
  • Stop at the Muna family bookstore in East Jerusalem, a renowned hub for Palestinian literature, culture, and political discourse. Engage with the bookstore’s staff to gain insights into the diverse perspectives reflected in its carefully curated collection of books.
  • Examine the geopolitics of Jerusalem through site visits and discussions about the city's complex religious, historical, and political landscapes.
  • Travel along the Trans-Israel Highway, gaining insight into Israel’s security challenges while observing the route of the Security Barrier.
  • Celebrate the first night of Hanukkah by lighting candles with the Poteach Shearim community in northern Israel, led by Rabbi Orit Rozenblit.
  • Enjoy a relaxing dinner at the hotel, reflecting on the day’s thought-provoking experiences.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 9
IN THE NORTH: EXPLORING ISRAEL'S NATURE AND STRATEGIC BORDERS
Tue. Nov 18, 2025
  • Hike through the breathtaking Tel Dan Nature Reserve, home to lush vegetation, natural springs, and ancient ruins that date back to the time of the Israelite kingdom.
  • Embark on an exhilarating Jeep tour of the Golan Heights, traversing rugged landscapes while learning about the region’s historical battles, volcanic formations, and modern-day agricultural innovations.
  • Ascend Mount Bental for a panoramic view of the Israeli-Syrian border, gaining a deeper understanding of Israel’s geopolitical and security concerns through expert-led discussions.
  • Visit a boutique winery in the region, enjoying a wine tasting experience that highlights the unique terroir and flavors of Israeli wines. Participate in a candle-lighting ceremony, embracing the holiday spirit in the Galilee.
  • Return to the hotel for a delicious dinner and time to relax.
Overnight: Sea of Galilee Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 10
MYSTICISM, HISTORY, AND FAREWELL CELEBRATIONS
Wed. Nov 19, 2025
  • Check out of the hotel.
  • Explore Tsfat, a center of Jewish mysticism for hundreds of years and a contemporary artists’ colony. Your visit will include:
    • Guided visit to the Ari, Caro, or Abuhav Synagogues, each with its great stories and mystical messages.
    • A stroll through the quaint Artists’ Colony. Shop in the galleries and crafts shops and engage in dialogues with local artisans inspired by the messages of Kabbalah.
    • Meet with artist Sheva Chaya in her studio.
  • Visit Karmiel/Misgav as part of the longstanding Partnership2Gether program with Pittsburgh, fostering community connections through cultural exchange and shared initiatives, or travel to Caesarea, the ancient Roman port city built by King Herod, to explore its grand amphitheater, aqueduct, and hippodrome while uncovering its history as a major trade hub and center of power.
  • Celebrate the final night of your journey with a festive farewell dinner at a local restaurant, filled with reflections, laughter, and Hanukkah candle lighting.
Overnight: Flight Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
DAY 11
RETURN HOME
Thu. Nov 20, 2025
  • Arrive back in the U.S., bringing home unforgettable memories and a deeper connection to Israel’s history, culture, and people.

RATES & LODGING

Protect yourself from fraud by being cautious and vigilant when it comes to online theft. It is crucial to note that J² adventures will never send an email requesting you to transfer funds to a new account or to redirect a payment. We will never alter our account number or issue additional payment requests without first personally speaking to you and properly identifying ourselves. If you feel uncertain about any communication (scammers often impersonate legitimate companies via e-mail or by calling), halt and contact us directly through our toll-free number listed on our website to discuss any necessary payments. Refrain from responding to suspicious emails or clicking on links or attachments unless you are completely certain of their legitimacy. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of fraud.
participants
30+
Cost p/p in double room
$3,970
Cost p/p in single room
$5,355

Tel Aviv: Dan Panorama

Jerusalem: Dan Panorama

Upper Galilee: Nofey Gonen

Choose Your Way

VOYAGER
  • Carefully selected accommodations, offering comfort and quality.
  • A seamless, fully curated experience, as outlined below.
  • J² Customer Care available by phone and email.
  • $50 travel credit per person for your next J² journey.

What to expect

  • 8 nights' accommodations.
  • 8 days of touring with a J² Expert Educator (guide), 8 days of touring in a luxury, climate controlled bus.
  • Daily breakfast & 5 dinners.
  • The J² adventures App available on the App Store & on Google Play (active 30 days before your departure and throughout your trip).
  • Water on the bus.
  • Porterage at the hotels.
  • All site entrance fees & program fees as per your final program.
  • Credit card fees.
  • Flights to & from Israel.
  • Dialogue with a Hartman Institute scholar.
  • Late check out on the day of departure is not included.
  • COVID related expenses, including tests.
  • Evening transportation when dinner is not included.
  • Amendments to the program: In the event that any sites, programs or meals etc. are added to the program, an additional fee may be required.
  • Personal extras: Items of personal nature such as laundry, wines, mineral water, beverages, coffee, tea, food other than the table d’hotel menu, passport and visa fees, insurance, and foreign port taxes, unless otherwise specified.
  • Gratuities: Recommend guidelines for tipping are provided in the terms section.
  • US and foreign airport taxes, Q fuel surcharge and border taxes when applicable.
  • Value Added Tax is currently not applicable to tourists visiting Israel. Should the law change, you will be notified accordingly, and VAT will be added to your final invoice.
  • Peace of Mind Travel Protection Program (POM).
  • Please review our terms & conditions (T&C’s) or request that we send you our full T&C’s. Until you do that, here is the small print, and other stuff you may want to know:
  • Validity | All prices quoted are based on exchange rates as of the proposal date and are subject to change without notice. Rates are per person and are based on shared twin room occupancy.
  • How to Make a Reservation | The quickest way to make a reservation is to register online or contact us by email. We accept VISA, MasterCard, and American Express credit cards. A non-refundable deposit of $500 is required in order to complete the registration process.
  • For any assistance with this registration process or other trip-related queries, please email Customer Care: [email protected].
  • Payments | The balance of your payment is due 90 days before your trip begins, or as specified in your invoice. You will receive an email reminder 2 weeks before this date. Various payment options are available as follows:
    • Credit card | We accept Visa, Mastercard and American Express. Please check with your credit card provider regarding international processing fees. We are unable to process payments of over $1,000 over the phone. Please submit payment online via a credit card or by wiring funds via your bank.
    • Domestic bank wire transfer | Payment should be wired in the same currency that is listed on your invoice. Please add the name of your group or invoice number as a reference and forward a copy of the transfer receipt by email. The bank transfer should clearly state the beneficiary’s name on the wire transfer.
  • J² Adventures reserves the right to automatically cancel your reservation on that date and it may be subject to reconfirmation should the final payment not be received.
  • Cancelation Policy | All cancelations need to be made in writing. The cancelation fee depends on the date when we receive written notification of your request to cancel your booking. Please note that the deposit is non-refundable.
  • Cancelation fees | Cancelations made 90 or more days prior to departure incur the loss of the deposit. Cancelations made 89 to 46 days prior to departure incur the loss of 50% of the full trip cost. Cancelations made 45 days or less prior to the departure incur the loss of 100% of the full trip cost.
  • Cancelation fees may also include: Hotel or supplier cancelation fees. J² Adventures reserves the right to adjust its terms of payment, including cancelation policies and initial deposits.
  • Protect yourself from fraud by being cautious and vigilant when it comes to online theft. It is crucial to note that J² adventures will never send an email requesting you to transfer funds to a new account or to redirect a payment. We will never alter our account number or issue additional payment requests without first personally speaking to you and properly identifying ourselves. If you feel uncertain about any communication (scammers often impersonate legitimate companies via e-mail or by calling), halt and contact us directly through our toll-free number listed on our website to discuss any necessary payments. Refrain from responding to suspicious emails or clicking on links or attachments unless you are completely certain of their legitimacy. By following these guidelines and staying vigilant, you can significantly reduce your risk of becoming a victim of fraud.
  • Protect your investment for $495 p/p: Should you cancel your trip up to 5 days before your departure for any reason, our POM program offers you a trip refund. Call 888-230-6008 or e-mail: [email protected].
  • Please click here to view our full terms (T&C's). These T&C's apply to all reservations created within J2 Adventures.

DISCOVER NEW WORLDS.

JOURNEYS.

A family vacation to Israel. An adventure of a lifetime traveling with friends to Morocco. A  trip to Poland or Portugal with your community. What do these trips have in common? No matter where you go, you will come back with a fresh perspective and appreciation of the place you visited as well as a heightened awareness of your identity as part of the global Jewish community. 

Stuff.

We have everything you need to know before you go. Check out our Instagram my_j2adventures for cool updates and interesting tidbits.