Up-Close Look at Capital Workings : Weeklong programs offer seniors an inside view of the U.S. government in action.

Travelers over age 50 can now combine a vacation with an opportunity to become more informed about the workings of the U.S. government in Washington, D.C.

The Close Up Foundation, a nonprofit organization whose stated purpose is “to heighten public awareness of government and politics through education programs for students, teachers, and older Americans,” offers three different one-week programs for seniors that combine sessions with the Washington press corps, tours of the capital’s many memorials and museums, and an escorted evening at the theater. Participants may also attend workshops on current issues and governmental structure.

The programs include seven nights’ hotel accommodations; all meals except one (during a free day); all in-city transportation in air-conditioned motor coaches; an evening at one of the capital’s theaters; and a final banquet. The price includes all seminars, speakers, sightseeing, entertainment, excursions and entrance fees to scheduled events, and gratuities. Also included is a one-week health and accident insurance policy. Prices quoted below do not include air fare to and from Washington, D.C., although moderately discounted air fares can be arranged upon request.

The three programs are:

* “Close Up: Washington.” Takes visitors through the halls of power on Capitol Hill, with an introduction to the agencies and institutions that make our government work. Participants study the impact of lobbyists, gain insights into how laws are made and, where feasible, meet members of their congressional delegations. The per-person price, on a double-occupancy basis, is $877. (For a single room for each of the three programs, add $270 to the per-person price.) Available dates in 1992 are Sept. 12-19 and 19-26.

* “Close Up: Washington and Williamsburg.” Includes most of the features described above, plus two days and two nights in the restored 18th-Century town of Williamsburg, Va., where travelers are shown day-to-day life as it was during the Revolutionary War. Costumed hosts guide visitors through craft shops, public buildings and Colonial residences of more than two centuries ago. The per-person price for this session is $995. Available dates are Sept. 26-Oct. 3 and Oct. 24-31.

* “Close Up: The United States in the Global Community.” In addition to the features of the “Close Up: Washington” program, visitors will get a behind-the-scenes look at our nation’s role in the world; examine the politics, economics, geography and history of key world regions; and look beyond the headlines into the workings of foreign policy-making. Per-person price is $877. Available dates are Oct. 3-10 and Oct. 17-24.

For a color brochure that describes all three Close Up programs in detail, as well as costs and other information, call (800) 232-2000, or write to Close Up Foundation, 44 Canal Center Plaza, Alexandria, Va. 22314.