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One Day in DC With Big Bus Tours

See the essentials of dc in one day with big bus tours browse our comprehensive offerings that range from a 24-48 hour hop-on, hop-off adventure; or purchase a big day out combination ticket with our attraction partners..

When it comes to sightseeing in Washington, DC, there’s a lot to see and do and often not enough time. One of the most efficient ways to cover all of your bases, while also offering an opportunity to explore museums, monuments, and other points of interest, is to take a double-decker open-top sightseeing bus tour. With a new departure point on the upper deck of L’Enfant Plaza, Big Bus Tours offers customers a stress-free ride in a clean and safe environment above streets and sidewalks!

Big Bus Tours DC is the official tour bus company for the National Mall .  Our tours go past and stop at the major monuments, memorials, and museums in DC.  With frequent and varied stops throughout the tour, you can always step off for further exploration. And if you want to capture the scene from a unique vantage point, you can stay on the bus for the entire 90-minute ride.  Nothing beats the photo-ops from the rooftop! Begin the tour at L’Enfant Plaza or catch the tour at one of the 13 stops throughout the city. The Big Bus Tours app will give you the exact location and stop times for the day you travel.

Once you have explored some of your favorite memorials and museums during the morning, the afternoon presents a unique opportunity to hop off the bus at the Wharf and take the Water Taxi to any three locations along the taxi route.  When you have returned from exploring, hop back on the bus and head to the L’Enfant Plaza stop. There you can catch a bite to eat or use your combo pass to schedule your time with the International Spy Museum .  

If you haven’t seen the DC skyline set against a night sky, you’re missing out. One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the nation’s capital is during a night tour. You’ll encounter fewer crowds and the monuments and memorials take on an even more awe-inspiring feeling when lit up at dusk. Note, this tour is not a hop-on, hop-off, however, the tour provides a photo stop at the Lincoln and Korean War Memorial.  The route includes aspects of the DC area not available during the day tour including the Pentagon , Rossyln, Georgetown , and BLM Plaza.

THE 10 BEST Washington DC Tours & Excursions

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• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Walking Tours
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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour

2. Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour

3. Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress

4. DC National Mall Night Tour with 10 Stops, Reserved Entry Tickets

5. Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops

6. Capitol Hill Walking Tour with US Capitol and Library of Congress

7. Washington DC by Moonlight Electric Cart Tour

8. Private Washington DC City Tour

9. Best of DC Plus US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry

10. Washington DC Private Nature Tour

11. Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour

12. Hop-On Hop-Off 21 Stop Trolley Tour + Arlington Cemetery

13. Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon Tour

14. Small Group National Mall Night Tour with 10 Top Attractions

15. John F. Kennedy: A Washington, D.C. Private Exploration

16. Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour + Changing of the Guards

17. Private Night-Time Tour of Washington DC with a Chauffeur

18. DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Potomac River Cruise, Entry Tickets

19. Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour

20. Experience Washington DC's Monuments by Moonlight on a Trolley

21. Private Washington DC Grand Tour with Hotel Pick-Up

22. Morning Monuments Tour with Optional Guided Entry into US Capitol

23. Private Night-Time Monuments Tour of DC with Hotel Pick-Up

24. Washington DC Night-Time City Tour

25. Washington DC Signature Scenic Lunch Cruise

26. LED Lights Magic Night-Time Guided Tour with Photo Stops & Snack

27. Big Bus DC: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour by Open-top Bus

28. Smithsonian Museum of Natural History - Exclusive Guided Tour

29. Ghosts of Georgetown Night-Time Walking Tour

30. VIP Mount Vernon Day Trip & Potomac River Cruise

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Bus Tours in Washington DC

Enjoy a comfortable and informative ride through Washington DC with a DC bus or trolley tour. These tours are great for anyone who wants to sit back and relax while still seeing sights like the monuments, the Capitol Building, the White House, Georgetown, the Vietnam Memorial and more. Hop-on/hop-off tours allow travelers to set their own pace, hopping off at a sight they want to spend more time at and hopping back on to one of the next busses, which arrive every 30 minutes. Love the sights at night? The Monuments by Moonlight tour of Washington DC affords amazing photo opportunities.

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Signature Tours of DC

Signature Tours, your guide to DC

Signature Tours Are The Best Guided Tours in Washington DC

AWARD-WINNING GUIDED TOURS OF WASHINGTON DC

Great touring experience

When you get on Signature Tours of DC bus you get a unique, entertaining guided tour of Washington DC that allows you to explore the fabled monuments of DC with stops that offer great photo ops so you take home great memories. You enjoy a comfortable ride in a family friendly setting at an affordable price.

Friendly expert Guides

While you’re on the tour you get treated to a live narration by a courteous and expert guide who is knowledgeable about Washington DC and its history and is passionate about sharing the love of the city and the historical facts that helped shape the course of this nation.

Comfort rides in luxury buses

For your comfort and convenience, you’re traveling in brand new climate controlled buses, with leather seats and a driver who has your safety in mind to navigate the Washington DC traffic and get you to the monuments on the National Mall while you relax and enjoy the scenery.

Live narration + historical facts

Your friendly guide shows you around the monuments and landmarks on the National Mall and entertains you with a fact-filled narration of the history behind every building or site. You also get a chance to walk with the guide at every stop to snap memorable pictures.

DC’s Most Popular Tours

TOP OF THE LINE

Our Washington, DC Top of the Line Tour is the most comprehensive and exciting way to experience Washington DC in a jam-packed 8 hour day, while making memories to last a lifetime.

LEARN MORE & BOOK NOW

US CAPITOL & MONUMENTS

The US Capitol and  Monuments tour gives you an insider’s look at our US Capitol where you will get to see the hear the Capitol Tour guide give you  information on how it was built and many more historical facts.

ARLINGTON PLUS

This comprehensive guided tour covers from the historic and incomparable Arlington National Cemetery to the most famous Washington DC monuments and memorials.

SIGHT SEE DC

Washington DC has a lot to offer. With our bus tour you will be able to see all the Washington DC monuments and attractions with live narrative that will captivate you.

DC UNDER THE STARS NIGHT TOUR

Experience an unforgettable 3 hour night tour and informative insider’s look at Washington DC under the stars! Washington DC is beautiful and glimmering at night.

PRIVATE TOURS

Looking to get an insider’s view of the city or schedule your tour to your convenience? Signature Tours of DC offers customizable itinerary private tours for individuals, families and groups .

ARLINGTON MORNING

Join us on this 5 hour tour that includes Arlington National Cemetery at the start and then puts you on our Morning Tour allowing you to see the top sights on the National Mall.

MUST SEE DC MORNING TOUR

Washington D.C. is a showcase of some of the most majestic monuments and memorials in the country. With so much to see and so little time, we got the right morning tour for you.

COLONIAL WILLIAMSBURG

This unique Full Day (12 hours) tour let’s you explore Colonial Williamsburg and several historic sites that surround it. You will learn about our Colonial past .

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12 best washington, d.c. tours (beyond the monuments).

The nation's capital has more to offer than free museums and tons of history.

The Best Washington, D.C. Tours

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With lots of free attractions and historic sites in a relatively compact area, Washington, D.C., is a tourist's delight. Even so, there's no better way to get to know the nation's capital than with an expert. U.S. News gathered expert recommendations and traveler opinions to create this list of the top tours in Washington. Whether your interests include architecture, history or food, the following tours let you get to know the city like a local.

D.C. By Foot – National Mall Tour

Price: $4 tour reservation fee Duration: 2 hours

D.C. By Foot's National Mall walking tour is a mile-long stroll that includes stories about famous landmarks like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Travelers praise the tour, saying it is chock-full of information and that the guides are engaging. D.C. By Foot is a pay-what-you-want tour: it's free, though it is assumed you will tip your licensed, freelance guides.

Tours depart Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Travelers should note reservations are required for this tour and there is a $4 reservation fee per person for tours. The company also conducts a slightly shorter Scavenger Hunt at the Mall tour geared toward kids and a bevy of other tours around the city.

Check availability on:

Old Town Trolley Tours of Washington D.C.

Price: Adults from $44; kids from $33 Duration: 1.5 hours

According to reviewers, this trolley tour provides an educational and relaxing outing, thanks to informative commentary from the friendly onboard guides. This hop-on, hop-off tour option allows travelers to explore Washington at their own pace and check out the monuments, museums and attractions that they are most interested in. Popular stops on the trolley route include the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the International Spy Museum, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Portrait Gallery and more. In total, the trolley makes 15 stops.

Trollies run hourly from 9 a.m. to about 4 p.m. daily. Old Town Trolley Tours also offers specialized Arlington National Cemetery tours and a Monuments by Moonlight Tour, among others.

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Unlimited Biking DC – Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $55 Duration: 3 hours

A great way to quickly cover a lot of ground is on the Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour from Unlimited Biking DC, which takes you on a guided tour to see the main monuments along the National Mall and the Tidal Basin. What's more, the entire tour takes place on sidewalks, paths and trails, so you never have to worry about navigating city streets. Plus, you can hop off to take photos and explore sites during the roughly 4-mile adventure. Visitors say the tour is perfect for families thanks to the engaging guides and manageable pace of the route.

E-bikes are available for an additional fee. The tour runs at 10 a.m. daily, with an additional 2:30 p.m. tour from April through October. If you can't get enough of the monuments, the company also offers a Monuments at Night Bike Tour as well as cherry blossoms tours, among other options.

Reza Venegas | Courtesy of Mangia D.C.

Mangia DC Food Tours – Georgetown Foodie Tour

Price: Adults from $79; kids from $69 Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Eating your way through Georgetown – one of D.C.'s wealthiest and most picturesque neighborhoods – with Mangia D.C Food Tours is a delightful way to get acquainted with the area. On the Georgetown Foodie Tour, you'll visit up to five restaurants for tasty samples, plus a cocktail or mocktail pairing. Your guide will give you an overview of the area's cultural and political ties, as well as point out historic landmarks. Foodies say the tour is both filling and educational.

Mangia D.C. limits tours to 14 people, which makes for an intimate group – another point of praise for reviewers. Tours run Friday through Sunday and start at 1 p.m. Looking for more local eats? Mangia also offers an Italian Food Tour in Washington's Dupont Circle neighborhood.

Capital Segway Tours

Price: From $70 Duration: 2 hours

Seeing all of Washington's landmarks on foot is an ambitious goal, but if you swap walking for riding a Segway, you can glide to most of them. Highlights on this tour include the White House, the National Archives, the Washington Monument and the Capitol. Every rider receives a radio headset, which makes it easy to hear the guide's descriptions. Reviewers say the guides are fantastic and the tours provide the perfect overview of the city, which in turn helps visitors decide where they want to spend more time. Many add that they appreciate the guides spending time to make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe on the Segway before setting off.

Participants must be 16 or older and weigh at least 100 pounds to ride. Tours are not suitable for those who weigh over 250 pounds or women who are pregnant. Capital Segway Tours requires travelers to arrive 30 minutes prior to tour for orientation and training session. Tours run year-round and are offered several times a day, weather permitting.

Blue Fern Travel – Black Broadway — U Street Food Tour

Price: From $105 Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

This U Street tour run by Blue Fern Travel (formerly Carpe D.C. Food Tours) is purportedly the company's most popular, which makes sense because the U Street neighborhood is one of the liveliest in the city. During the tour, your guide will take you to several locally owned restaurants for hearty samples. As you make your way along U Street, you'll learn about the neighborhood's history, architecture and jazz heritage. Foodies find the history lessons surprising and informative; some love the information almost as much as the food.

Tours depart Thursday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. year-round; group size is typically around 12 people, according to the company. You can expect to walk about a mile on the tour visiting the different eateries. Tickets cost $105 per person. Blue Fern also offers food tours of Georgetown and Old Town Alexandria.

USA Guided Tours – African American History and Culture Tour

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $79 Duration: 3.5 hours

Travelers heap praise on the guides leading the African American History and Culture Tour, applauding their expertise and storytelling. During the bus ride across D.C., travelers will learn of African American history and perspectives of different D.C. monuments. Sites on the tour include Black Lives Matter Plaza, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and the African American Civil War Memorial, among other significant locations. Trips conclude at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where you will have reserved access to the popular site. (Note: Some stops are guided around monuments, while others are quick pauses for photos.)

Tours run daily at 10 a.m. This tour is also available as a private excursion. USA Guided tours operates a variety of bus and walking tours.

Check prices & availability on: 

D.C. Design Tours – Dupont Circle & Embassy Row Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $20 Duration: 2 hours

D.C. Design Tours focuses on Washington's eclectic architecture and design. On the approximately 2-mile Dupont Circle & Embassy Row Tour, you'll explore the area while an experienced guide identifies and describes significant properties, such as The Cosmos Club, the Embassy of Indonesia (Walsh-McLean House) and the Woodrow Wilson House. You'll also hear a good deal of history and some juicy gossip about some of the nation's movers and shakers. Tour-takers rave about the hidden gems and stories the guides share.

Public tours run on Saturdays at 11 a.m. Design Tours also guides visitors through surrounding neighborhoods, such as Capitol Hill and Georgetown.

D.C. Metro Food Tours – Georgetown Food Tour

Price: From $80 Duration: 3.5 hours

During the Georgetown Food Tour, you'll visit up to five local spots in this upscale neighborhood. But you won't just be stopping in for a quick bite. Instead, tour-takers will sit down and be served a specialty of the house – an element foodies love about the tour. Dining highlights might include pie from a family-owned bakery, a Korean dish and Italian-American fare. In addition to tasty cuisine, guides will regale you with stories about local sites and landmarks as you walk between stops.

Tours operate Thursday through Sunday at 3 p.m. D.C. Metro Food Tours offers food tours of other neighborhoods, including Dupont Circle and Virginia's Old Town Alexandria.

City Brew Tours – The DC Signature Brew Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 3.5 hours

With a motto of "You Drink, We Drive," D.C. Brew Tours sets the stage for a safe yet beer-filled day on its Original Brew Tour. During the outing, you'll be chauffeured around the city in a comfortable van, visit three breweries, get behind-the-scenes tours and enjoy up to 12 local craft beers. This tour also includes a beer-pairing lunch. Participants champion expert guides and excellent beers.

Get your beer fix during the tour, which runs multiple times from Wednesday through Sunday. D.C. Brew Tours limits its excursions to 14 people. The company also offers private tours.

Nonpartisan Pedicab – Smithsonian Museums and Pennsylvania Avenue

Price: $175 per hour Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Being chauffeured around town in a private pedicab with Nonpartisan Pedicab is a novel and comfortable way to see the sights in D.C. You can sit back and relax while an expert guide gives you a personalized tour and does the cycling for you. On the company's Smithsonian Museums and Pennsylvania Avenue tour, you'll follow the inaugural route from the Capitol to the White House, passing 24 landmarks along the way. Tour-takers say the guides are excellent and share plenty of fun facts and history during the trip.

Occasionally the company offers discounts and deals on the hourly rate (check its website for details). Nonpartisan Pedicab offers a variety of tours around the city, including a twilight tour of the monuments and an Embassy Row and Georgetown tour, among others.

City Cruises – Monuments and Sightseeing Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $23 Duration: 1 hour

After you've toured the monuments by foot, bike or bus, why not admire them from the water? City Cruises offers one-way and round-trip departures from Alexandria, Virginia and Georgetown. Along the way, you'll see the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Washington Monument, the Arlington Memorial Bridge and more, all while enjoying prerecorded commentary describing the monuments. Visitors appreciate the narration but note that engine noise sometimes drowns out the recording.

During the warm-weather months, the cruise departs daily. Throughout the rest of the year, cruises usually only operate on the weekends. One-way trips last 45 minutes each way. Round-trip journeys span just under two hours. The company offers several other sightseeing cruises, including one that drops off visitors at Mount Vernon.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Washington, D.C., Bus Tours
• Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.
• Best Hotels in Washington, D.C.
• Best Historical Cities to Visit in the USA
• The Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Tags: Tours , Washington, D.C. , Travel , Vacations , food and drink , Washington DC Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

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See The Best First

You’ve arrived! Now, get the insider’s view of the city aboard Old Town Trolley! Our DC Tours show you the best spots first, giving you the most comprehensive sightseeing experience of The Nation’s Capital.

Less stopping, more sightseeing

We may not be as old as the monuments, but as DC’s oldest tour company we know this city better than anyone else. We also know that the quality of your tour doesn’t depend on the mere number of tour stops, so we’ve carefully crafted our tour route, selecting the right amount of stops at all the right places with minimal interruptions.

Every seat is the best seat with our state-of-the-art stadium trolleys.

Monuments by Moonlight Tour

Rated as one of the Top 20 Best Kept Secrets in Washington DC by FOX News. Experience The Nation’s Capital in a different light with our DC Night Tour .

We Speak Your Language

Visiting with friends and family that don’t speak English? Our new exclusive foreign language app is here to help! Now you can enjoy live narration in 7 different languages. Sit back, relax, and enjoy all the sights and sounds via a fully-narrated tour through our nation’s capital.

Our Environmental Commitment

With our use of clean burning propane, we’ve been committed to preserving and protecting the environment since we began delighting guests across the United States with our wonderful brand of Transportainment ® .

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Old Town Trolley Tours Washington DC 4.2

Choose Your Adventure

Whether you’re just breezing through or enjoying an extended stay, we’ve got several options to choose from to help you maximize your time in DC and still see the best first! Buy Your Tickets Online and Save!

“Hop aboard one of our trolleys and you’ll experience Transportainment ® , a delightful combination of transportation and entertainment.”

1-Day Old Town Trolley Tour

• Hop On & Off at 15 Old Town Trolley Stops
• Fully Narrated Tour of Washington DC
• Our trolleys are all weather - rain or shine
• BEST VIEW! Tallest vehicles allowed by law with stadium seating
• Over 100 points of interest

Old Town Trolley Tour & Arlington National Cemetery Tour

• 50%* Discount on Arlington Tour Included In 1-Day Package
• Includes separate ticket to Arlington National Cemetery Tour*
• Trolley Tour and Arlington Cemetery Tour do not have to be taken on the same day

Monuments by Moonlight

• See the city’s most popular monuments in a different light
• Stops at FDR, Lincoln, Vietnam Veterans, Korean War and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorials
• Hear historical tales and anecdotes

Arlington National Cemetery Tours

• Learn about cemetery's history and heroes from knowledgeable guides
• Be transported to notable graves and memorials
• Tours depart every 30 minutes
• Relax on our comfortable tour vehicles

Why use Old Town Trolley Tours in Washington DC

• Riding around the Beltway for over 30 years as DC’s longest-running city tour!
• All our DC tours are 100% live in real time - No pre-recorded narration
• The finest, most highly-trained and knowledgeable guides
• Unlimited hop-on & hop-off as often as you like all day long
• Proudly owned and operated in the United States
• The only tour authorized to enter the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery*
• Exclusive foreign language tour app offered in 7 languages

Sun, Rain or Snow...

We’re dc’s best all-weather touring experience.

• Best view! State-of-the-art stadium trolleys
• Every seat is the best seat!
• All-weather trolleys - rain or shine! Our vehicles get the job done
• Onboard monitors display historical imagery
• Comfortable padded seats for a pleasant tour

Your Vacation… All Mapped Out For You!

• Trolley Routes & Stops
• Helpful information
• Points of Interest
• Shopping & Entertainment
• Restaurants & Bars
• And much more!

OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS

What Our Guests Are Saying

We were impressed.

My sisters and I want to compliment our trolley driver Alex … his knowledge of the area and its history was phenomenal. He was very articulate and his presentation clear. We were impressed and so appreciative..

Thank you for making our trip special

…writing to let you know how wonderful our Old Town Trolley Tour was in D.C. Both our tour guides (Alex and Sooner Steve) were wonderful and made the tour special. They should be commended for the way they represented your company and for the great job that they did. Thank you again and because of this trip we are planning our next trip but only where Old Town Trolley Tours are offered…

What a wonderful experience!

We recently spent a day in your beautiful city & had the pleasure of taking your trolley tour with ‘Mr Holiday’ & ‘Clayton’ as our very knowledgeable tour guides. What a wonderful experience! Thank You.

OTT really made our whole trip!

My mom and I enjoyed our trolley experience tremendously! It went off without a hitch! The guides were all very informative and really added to the sightseeing experience. We were able to see and do so much more because of the trolley. We were also pleased to see that you have wheelchair-accessible options… We have already recommended you to several people.

I’m singing the praises to anyone going to DC

Some friends and I toured DC.  I’m really not into tours but went along with the group. Now I’m singing the praises to anyone going to the DC area. The tour was great and well worth the cost. Tour conductor “Supa Dave” was a riot! My group of 12 agree he should be your conductor of the year.

Drew was fantastic

…we really enjoyed using Old Town Trolley Tours during our week in D.C. All the drivers we had were great, however, Drew was fantastic. His knowledge of history is amazing and his attention to customer service is excellent. I would also like to say thank you to Ms. Margo for her thoughtfulness and kind attention during our time in your great city…

You have some of the most gifted conductors

I went on your tour and just loved it. We used it for the 3 days we were in town! You have some of the most gifted conductors I have ever been a part of. Steven, Super Dave and Grumpy made our trip one that we will never forget! We hope to run into them on our next trip to DC!

It was worth every penny...

I recently visited the DC area with my son. He had only one request; he wanted to see monuments. Well, we purchased tickets with your company. By the end of the day we had seen more monuments than we could believe. My 15-year-old son loved the tour and the guides. He talked all the next day about everything he saw and learned…

...Our favorite activity

Your old town trolley tour is amazing! My friend and I are both 25-year-old students and the trolley was our favorite activity during our week in DC. Definitely fun for all ages! All of our trolley drivers were great, but Super Dave was really Super!

I would recommend it to anyone!

I recently got back from a trip to DC and I just had to write to say what a wonderful experience I had on the trolley tour. I am not much of a sightseeing enthusiast, but our trolley guide Steven was amazing! Not only was he informative and funny, but he was a great driver too! I would definitely come back for another tour…

Old Town Trolley Tours

March 1 – January 1: Daily. January 2 – February 28: Thursdays – Sundays only. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

Hours: 9am – 4pm.

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.

For more information go to Old Town Trolley Schedule  information.

Schedules for our Washington DC tours are subject to change. Please call for the most current information: (202) 832-9800

Arlington National Cemetery is open 363 days a year.

Operating Hours: 8:30am – 4:00pm.

Special Operating hours: Memorial Day – Tours will begin at 2:00pm. Veterans Day – Tours will begin at 2:00pm.

Closed on Wreaths Across America: Wreaths In Day (December 2024 date coming soon) and Wreaths Out Day (January 2025 date coming soon).

GENERAL INFORMATION: (866) 754-9014 GROUP TOURS: (202) 832-2008

Daily. 7:15pm – 8:00pm.

Closures: Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. July 4: Closed. Closed for Army Ten Miler.

For more information, go to Monuments by Moonlight Schedule .

Reservations are required. Call for availability prior to making your e-ticket purchase:

(202) 832-9800

What are the most popular stops on the DC tour route? + -

We take great pride in providing an itinerary that showcases all the great aspects of each city during our tours. The most popular stops on our DC tour include the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Capitol, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and the Lincoln Memorial.

How long is the DC tour route from start to finish? + -

In total, the day tour route is approximately one hour and 45 minutes long.

Do I have to start at stop #1? + -

You may start your Old Town Trolley Tour at any of our convenient stops. Click on Map and Stops to see a list of our stops with information about the attractions and points of interest at each stop.

What neighborhoods does the tour visit? + -

The Old Town Trolley Tour offers a comprehensive experience of the following neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.:

Downtown D.C.: Explore the heart of the nation’s capital, where iconic landmarks such as the White House, National Mall, and Washington Monument are located.

Capitol Hill: Discover the historic neighborhood surrounding the U.S. Capitol, known for its charming row houses, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress.

Lincoln Memorial: Visit this iconic memorial while enjoying scenic views of the Reflecting Pool and the National World War II Memorial.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial: Pay tribute to the civil rights leader in West Potomac Park.

Smithsonian Museums: Explore the area around the National Mall, home to numerous Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Tidal Basin: Enjoy the beauty of the Tidal Basin, known for its cherry blossoms and the Jefferson Memorial.

FDR Memorial: Delve into the history of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s era at this memorial, located near the Tidal Basin.

Arlington National Cemetery: Cross the Potomac River to visit this renowned cemetery, where you can witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

These neighborhoods offer a diverse range of attractions and historical significance, making the Old Town Trolley DC Tour an ideal way to explore the nation’s capital.

Does the tour run on holidays and holiday weekends? + -

Go to the Old Town Trolley Schedule for more information.

How often do tours run throughout the day? + -

Old Town Trolley Tours of DC operates the city’s largest fleet of sightseeing vehicles, and this allows us to pick up and drop off more frequently than any other trolley company. The frequency of the trolleys depends on the time of the year, as well as traffic and weather conditions.

Which DC tours give me access to Arlington National Cemetery? + -

1. Old Town Trolley Ticket – Every Old Town Trolley day tour ticket offers a shuttle from the Lincoln Memorial stop to Arlington National Cemetery. Visitors can enter and walk Arlington at their leisure.

2. Old Town Trolley + Arlington Cemetery Tour Package – This package includes guided-tour access to Arlington and 10 unique stops at the most notable landmarks, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the John F. Kennedy gravesite, and Arlington House. A loop gives visitors the chance to hop on and off at a variety of key points of interest.

3. Monuments by Moonlight + Arlington Cemetery Tour Package – This package includes a nighttime tour of DC’s monuments, which offers a unique perspective of the monuments, and a separate ticket for Arlington National Cemetery tours for use at another time. With the Monuments by Moonlight Tour, you can cover many of these sites in one night, and the package allows you to visit Arlington National Cemetery during the day. Take advantage of the package and enjoy a special discounted rate. Transportation to Arlington is not included in the Monuments by Moonlight package.

What is the National Mall, how large is it, and does Old Town Trolley cover it all? + -

Our DC tours cover a majority of the National Mall, with stops at several Smithsonian museums and National Monuments and Memorials, such as the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, and the FDR Memorial.

In what order should I see the monuments in DC? + -

It’s important to realize that there is no “best” order to see the monuments in DC. It’s really up to you and what you want to see first. However, if you’re looking for a logical and efficient route, an Old Town Trolley Tour is a fantastic way to see all of the best monuments in Washington. By following the tour, you will be able to see all of the important monuments in a logical order. Start with the National Mall, home to some of the most iconic monuments in DC, such as the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Continue your monument tour with a visit to the World War II Memorial. This memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served in World War II and the more than 400,000 who gave their lives. It’s a beautiful and moving tribute that will leave you feeling very patriotic.

You can finish up with a stop at Arlington National Cemetery, where many of our nation’s heroes are buried, such as John F. Kennedy and the unknown soldiers from various wars.

How long does it take to visit the National Mall? + -

The National Mall is home to several monuments, including the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, among others.

We suggest deciding which monuments and memorials you want to visit and planning your itinerary accordingly. However, with over 2 miles of history to explore, it can be a daunting task to see everything efficiently. Old Town Trolley Tours has a special package that includes unlimited hop-on, hop-off access to their trolley system for one day. That means visitors can take their time exploring the National Mall at their own pace. The trolleys cover most of the area’s main attractions, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian museums. In total, the trolley route is approximately one hour and 45 minutes long, meaning visitors can take advantage of the unlimited access to create their own itinerary through the National Mall.

Can you tour the National Mall at night? + -

Many monuments on the National Mall are open 24/7, which makes it possible to experience them at any time of the day or night. However, visiting them during the night provides a unique opportunity to see them at rest. The memorials and landmarks are lit up, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the dark sky. The National Mall at night is peaceful and calming and sets an entirely different mood than during the daytime. There are fewer crowds, which makes the experience more intimate and allows you to take your time to appreciate the structures’ details and beauty.

The Monuments by Moonlight Tour will take you on a journey through history and showcase the stunning beauty of the monuments when they are illuminated. Embark on an exciting journey through DC’s historic neighborhoods. Once you reach the National Mall, you will experience the incredible beauty of the monuments at night. You’ll tour famous landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and, as you explore them in the evening, you will get fascinating insights into their history and significance. The monuments and memorials are beautifully illuminated at night, giving them an almost ethereal look, which adds to the experience.

How long does it take to visit Washington? + -

You can experience the best of the city in two days, especially if your group chooses Old Town Trolley for your transportation needs. You’ll be able to see the most popular sites without getting lost or spending too much time figuring out the city layout by yourself. The trolley stops at various landmarks across the city, including the U.S. Capitol and the Smithsonian museums. That way, you get more out of your time and an immersive experience!

What are the most famous attractions in Washington, D.C.? + -

There are a few Washington landmarks that definitely cannot be missed:

1. The National Mall is the first attraction that comes to mind while visiting Washington. It is essentially a walkable park that connects the White House to the Lincoln Memorial. The park is adorned with some of the most impressive monuments and memorials, including the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and the Washington Monument, which serves as the centerpiece of the park.

2. The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. It is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and was built in 1800. Visitors can take guided tours of the White House but must secure their bookings months in advance. The White House gardens are open to visitors every day of the year.

3. The 19 Smithsonian museums have something for everybody, from space exhibitions at the Air and Space Museum to the hidden stories of African-American history in the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

4. The United States Capitol Building is the home of the U.S. Congress. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol that include visits to the House and Senate galleries and an overview of the U.S. Congress’ history and workings. A new addition is the Capitol Visitor Center, which offers interactive displays that showcase the Capitol’s history.

5. Arlington National Cemetery is America’s most famous military cemetery. It was founded during the American Civil War, and several thousand service members and their families have been laid to rest here over the years. The cemetery features exquisite headstones of service members and families, notably the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is guarded by the soldiers of the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment.

Can you see everything in Washington, D.C. in one day? + -

With so many landmarks, museums, and monuments, it can be overwhelming to see everything D.C. has to offer in just one day. But, don’t worry — we have a solution! Start your day early with a hop-on, hop-off tour of the city. With Old Town Trolley, you’ll have access to the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Hill, and more. Take advantage of this opportunity to immerse yourself in U.S. history, admire iconic buildings, and learn about the city’s vibrant political culture.

Before you hop off the trolley at each stop, make sure to listen to the onboard narration. This will provide you with a wealth of historical and cultural information about the landmark or museum you are visiting. You can always hop back on the next trolley when you’re ready to move on to the next destination.

• •MAP & STOPS
• •Things to DO
• •SCHEDULE
• •REVIEWS

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Which Washington DC Bus Tours Are Best?

Big bus hop on hop off and more.

This post compares the various Washington, DC bus tour options available to you.

We included hop-on-hop-off tours, more premium shuttle bus services, and even a free, self-guided option. Let's get rolling! 

• Hop-On-Hop-Off
• Guided Sightseeing Bus Tours
• Arlington Cemetery Trolley
• Night Bus Tours
• Mt. Vernon, Gettysburg, and Other Day Trips

Self-Guided Bus Tour

• Pros and Cons of Bus Tours

Disclosure:  While we think you should take our  free walking tours , we understand they may not be best for everyone. Therefore, we have compared available DC bus Tours.

While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

HOP-ON-HOP-OFF DC BUS TOURS

There are a lot of great services in Washington DC which offer commentary and transportation to all of the most popular and historic sites in the area.

These bus tours allow you to jump off at any stop and get a closer look at any landmark you want to see.

These services typically provide both reliable transportation and either live or pre-recorded commentary (in up to 11 languages).

Prices start at about $40-$50 for an adult ticket and $25-35 for children.

Each ticket is available for either 1 or 2 days, and the 2-day tickets often include additional attractions or activities.

Old Town Trolley

These open-air but covered historic trolley cars take you around the city with a driver/guide narrating the entire way.

They provide plastic window coverings for less-than-ideal weather, and some of the newer trolleys are raised so you’re sitting above the cars.

From this vantage point, it’s a lot easier to see all of the notable sites around Washington, DC!  

Hotel Shuttle Service is provided at select hotels and times.

Tours are only in English however, they offer a foreign language app where visitors can listen to narration in Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, Italian, Chinese, and Japanese.

While the main tour will take you around the National Mall to see all the memorials and downtown DC, they also offer a tour that is essentially a shuttle providing transport to and from Arlington National Cemetery.

If you opt for their gold pass this includes the tour of Arlington National Cemetery, whereas the silver pass is their standard DC tour.

For more on how to visit Arlington National Cemetery once you’re there, check our Guide to ANC .

They also offer a 2.5-hour Memorials by Moonlight tour that begins at Union Station.

1-Day Ticket Prices

$49/Adults | $33/Children (note prices are more expensive if you book last minute!)

• Includes 24-hour access to the blue loop.

Purchase tickets or learn more .

2-Day Ticket Prices

As of Summer 2023, Old Town Trolley is not offering 2 Day Passes.

1-Day Ticket + Arlington National Cemetery

$60/Adults | $40/Children

• Includes Arlington National Cemetery tour.

You can also upgrade to include the tram tour of Arlington National Cemetery and can also add on a cruise during the summer months.

• 9 am - 5 pm from Thursday - Sunday
• Buses run every 30 minutes
• 9 am - 4 pm (Oct-Mar)
• 9 am - 6 pm (Apr-Sept)

This tour company has earned a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide. ( read the reviews )

Thousands of passengers have had an excellent trip while on the Old Town Trolley, and that’s definitely a good sign.

Although some guests have left negative feedback, a few of their complaints indicate a common problem that anyone should be concerned about.

A majority of reviewers have said that their guides provided a wealth of valuable information and made the journey very enjoyable.

Big Bus Tours

Big Bus, which operates double-decker, open-top brown buses, is a company you may have seen in other cities throughout the world.

This tour has three different loops around the city depending on which areas you want to see.

There are many connection points that will allow you to hop on and hop off any of the lines!

The red loop is their official tour of the National Mall, including stops at all the major Smithsonian museums, monuments, and memorials. 

This loop features pre-recorded commentary in 9 different languages.

The black loop is an evening tour, featuring the monuments illuminated at night.

The yellow loop goes to Georgetown and even further Northwest to the National Zoo and National Cathedral. (this route is currently suspended, but we offer Georgetown walking tours ! )

Commentary is only available in English. Click on the map for a larger view

There are a few different ticket options for the Big Bus Tours.

Passes come in 1, 2, or 3 days versions. All passes include discounts on ARTECHOUSE tickets and bike rentals.

Ticket Prices

Discover Tour: $54/Adults | $45/Children

• 1-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
• 50% off 2-Hour Bike Rental.
• Included in Go DC tourist discount pass.
• Free for kids 4 and under with a parental figure.

Essential Tour: $63/Adults | $54/Children

• 2-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour.
• $5 off ARTECHOUSE tickets.

Explore Tour: $72/Adults | $63/Children

• 3-day hop-on-hop-off bus tour.

Night Tour: $58/Adults | $50/Children (Fri-Sun in Summer Only)

• 9 am - 5 pm daily
• Buses run every 1 hour.

With a 3 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor, it’s fair to say that Big Bus Tours is a bit of a mixed bag for most customers. 

This rating, while lower than the previously mentioned competitor, is aligned with what most hop-on-hop-off tours receive worldwide.

GUIDED SIGHTSEEING BUS TOURS OF DC

Hop-on-hop-off bus tours are not for everyone, especially if you don't like waiting for buses or you only have a short amount of time in DC.  

This section compares the various tours available in DC, from a small group (less than 11 passengers) to bus shuttle tours (up to 25-33 passengers) and coach buses (up to 55 passengers).  

Sometimes, the tours are what is referred to as driver-guide, where your driver doubles as your tour guide, which means that you will explore each attraction on your own while the driver remains with the bus.

Other tours offer both a driver and a guide , where the guide will get off the bus with you at each stop and conduct a guided walking tour. 

Many of the options here include hotel pick-up and you will have the same bus and the same driver (and maybe tour guide) for the entire tour.

One of the biggest advantages of these types of tours is that they are usually more in-depth than traditional hop-on-hop-off tours.

They could be of great value if you are short on time, as it will take you much longer to see the same number of sights with the hop-on-hop-off buses.

This may not be the best option for those who do like to take their time at an attraction.

DC by Foot's Private Guided Bus Tour

We can combine our highly rated tour guides with a vehicle size of your choosing to create a custom private tour.

Family of 4 in a luxury SUV to a corporate group of 50 on a coach, we work with great drivers and bus companies to offer hotel pick up and drop off and develop a custom itinerary for you.

You'll get a driver to stay with the vehicle and your items and a guide who will hop off with you at locations.

Since its a private tour, you can choose what to see and how long to spend at each sites.

EMAIL US TO BOOK

Rates start at $700 for a small vehicle, driver and guide.

USA GUIDED TOURS

This company provides a variety of high-quality bus tours that will take you around Washington, D.C. in shuttle buses (up to 33 passengers).

All of their tours include both a driver as well as a tour guide, and your tour guide will get off the bus and give you walking tours of each stop, while your bus and driver wait for you.

In a sense, these are premium tours. Having both a driver and a tour guide means more cost to the company, and this is reflected in their prices.  

For some, this enhancement is well worth the premium paid, especially considering the reviews.  

With the exception of their night tour, most of their tours are 5 hours or longer.

TIP: They also offer tours in New York City  and you are entitled to a discount if you book tours in both cities.  

Reviews of USA Guided Tours DC

When we said these tours were high quality, we weren’t lying: this company has a 4 ½ out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide. 

Having the tour guide to guide you through the memorials is by far the biggest hit.

DC Highlights Tour

This is their base tour. It begins at 10 am daily and lasts for 4 hours.  

This part-bus, part-walking tour includes guided stops at the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, Washington Monument as well as the Lincoln and MLK Memorials and the Vietnam War and Korean War Veterans Memorials.  

They also offer a combination of this tour with a tour of Arlington National Cemetery for an additional $25/adult.

• $59 - Adult | $49 - Child (3-12)
• Members of the Military receive $10 off.
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Click here for the night-time version .
• Click here for their Arlington Cemetery Tour add-on .
• Find out how to get 20% off this combo tour .

Discover DC

If you want to explore pretty much every notable monument and landmark in D.C. and take a 1-hour cruise on the Potomac River, then consider the Discover DC Tour.

This 6-hour tour will take you to all locations listed on their Highlights Tour plus: the World War II Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.  

There is a lunch break included on the tour as you are cruising on the Potomac, this is only offered March - September.

• $89 - Adult | $79 - Child (3-12)
• More info and to book .

Skyview Convertible Bus Tour

On this convertible minibus - think open-top minivan - you get to experience a guided tour with panoramic views without the glare of a window in the photos!

A 6-hour guided bus tour takes you through the highlights of Washington DC including Georgetown, Embassy Row, and some of Northern Virginia.

• $99 - Adults & Children | $89 - Students & Seniors
• Time: 10 am - 4 pm
• Starting / Ending Location: Navy Memorial, Pennsylvania Ave NW
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
• Purchase your Skyview Convertible Bus Tickets .

SIGNATURE TOURS

Similar to USA Guided Tours, this well-reviewed tour company offers a shuttle bus with both a driver and a tour guide.   

With good reviews come higher prices. This company offers a 3-hour as well as a 6-hour version of a highlight tour.

They also offer free cancellation up to 24 hours before your tour.

3 Hour Morning Tour (daily at 10:30 am)

• $66 per person
• More info or to purchase

6-Hour Day Tour

• $84/youth (3-11)
• More info or to purchase .

Reviews of Signature Tours

The tickets are one of the more expensive for this type of tour, but Signature Tours has one of the highest ratings of all the services on this list.

With 4.7 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read some of the reviews ), you can feel fairly secure about a ticket purchase from this tour company.

ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY TROLLEY

Arlington Cemetery Tours (operated by Historic Tours of America) is the only company permitted to offer vehicle tours of the cemetery.

They offer both open-air trams and enclosed vehicles for varying weather conditions.

Several tour companies listed above also offer combination tickets that include an ANC tour. 

If you choose a bus tour ticket that doesn't include the cemetery, then consider taking our walking tour as well as reading our GPS-enabled audio tour . 

Ticket Prices:

• $19.50 for Adults
• $10.75 for Children (4-12)
• More information or to purchase tickets .

Reviews of Arlington Cemetery Trolley

It looks like most of the guests who have taken this tour enjoyed themselves, as the company currently has a 4 out of 5 stars rating on TripAdvisor. 

Fortunately, few of the complaints had anything in common, so it’s not likely that these issues are indicative of a larger problem.  

We also offer walking tours of the cemetery that allow you to take in these hallowed grounds at a leisurely pace and understand the stories of those resting here. Our professional guides also make sure that you're in the best place at the right time for the changing of the guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier - something the trolley tours do not do!

Searching Availability...

If you're hoping to experience both Mount Vernon, this company offers a combo tour that includes travel and entrance.

Clocking in at a total of 5 hours, the trip begins with a journey to George Washington's estate and finishes off with a guided walk-through of ANC. 

Prices are a lot higher than a trolley ticket, but you'll also get a lot more bang for your buck.

• $84 for Adults
• $74 for Children (3-12)
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour
• Purchase tickets here .

USA Guided Tours currently has an overall rating of 4.5 stars on TripAdvisor. The majority of reviewers absolutely adored this trip to Mount Vernon and Arlington.

Some guests even indicated that their tour guides managed to keep younger visitors entertained throughout the excursion.

This combo package is especially popular among families and couples.

Sadly, DC Duck Tours has closed!

NIGHT BUS TOURS OF DC

There is something truly beautiful about seeing the famous monuments and historic locations in Washington, DC all lit up at night. 

We think our walking tours of DC are the best way to experience the National Mall and other neighborhoods, but sometimes you just want to sit.

Thankfully, there are a lot of night bus tours offered by the services listed above. For those that we have listed above, we won't repeat the company overviews.  

Tours range from large group double-deck open-top buses to smaller, more intimate (and more expensive) shuttle buses.  

USA Guided Tours is one of the better-reviewed bus tour companies in DC.

The DC at Dusk Tour has both a driver and a tour guide and your tour guide will join you for guided strolls through each stop, which is helpful as sometimes the sights cannot be fully experienced from the road. 

This is a premium service with a maximum of 30 guests per tour and is thus reflected in the prices.  

The tour stops at and includes guided walking tours at the following locations:

• US Capitol Building
• White House
• World War II Memorial
• Jefferson Memorial
• Martin Luther King Memorial
• Korean War Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• Vietnam Memorial

You can meet your tour at the Naval Memorial conveniently located downtown on Pennsylvania Ave NW - there is a Metro station right there on the Green/Yellow lines.

• 3-hour tour departing at 7:30 pm.
• Members of the Military save $9 on tickets.
• $58 for Adults (additional fee for hotel pick up)
• $48 for Children (additional fee for hotel pick up)
• Purchase your tickets here .

BIG BUS DC NIGHT TOUR

This two-hour tour begins just after the sun goes down, allowing you to see what the nation’s capital looks like after dark.

Unlike their other offerings, the Big Bus Night Tour includes a live guide that will explain the significance of every landmark on your journey.  

The night tour is not a hop-on-hop-off tour like their day tours, rather you will see most of the sights listed on their page from the bus.

However, the tour does include  1 stop where your tour guide will accompany you to the Lincoln, Vietnam, and Korean War Memorials.  

Reviews of Big Bus's night tour are better than the company as a whole.

This is probably due to the fact that passengers are guaranteed one bus for the entire evening and will not have to wait for the next bus, as they do with the daytime hop-on, hop-off tours.

2 Hour Tour

• $59 for Adults
• Check the Big Bus website for more details .

OLD TOWN TROLLEY MONUMENTS BY MOONLIGHT TOUR

In addition to their hop-on-hop-off National Mall and their Arlington National Cemetery trolley services, Old Town Trolley also offers a night tour.

Professional guides will lead you around the city and provide a plethora of information about the history of our nation.

This is not a hop-on-hop-off tour, rather you will make 3 stops with your tour guide, as opposed to Big Bus's 1 stop, including a stop at the Iwo Jima Memorial.  

Like Big Bus, Old Town Trolley's night tour gets good overall reviews. Complaints seem to be the chaotic boarding processes and plastic windows, but the vast majority rate this tour from very good to excellent.

2 ½ Hour Tour

• $58 for Adults (can be more expensive if you book last minute)
• $38 for Children
• Children under 4 ride for free

BI-PARTISAN TOURS

Epic Evening Bus Tour

NOTE: This tour has currently halted operations and they are not offering bus tours as of August 2023.

Discover all of the most significant locations in DC during the evening!  There are a few good points for this tour.

• First, it's a small group (up to 11 people) tour.
• Second, Bi-Partisan Tours is one of the highest-rated tour companies.
• Third, this night tour visits the Air Force Memorial, which most other companies don't do, and this stop is a real treat at night.

However, this is a driver-guide-only tour, so there is no tour guide to accompany you through the memorials which can be a negative if you have any questions while at the sites since many sites cannot be seen from the coach.

With that said, none of the reviewers seem to have any issues with this aspect and the guided bus portion seems to make up for it.

They do offer hotel pick-up and drop-off.

As the tour is a small group, they do allow flexibility with the itinerary and are sometimes are able to incorporate a specific request like Embassy Row or the Kennedy Center.

BUS TOURS TO MOUNT VERNON AND OTHER DAY TRIPS

Several DC bus tour operators offer bus tours to Mount Vernon Estate, the home of George Washington, which lies 16 miles (25 km) south of the District of Columbia.  

Other tours will visit Thomas Jefferson's Monticello as well as Gettysburg Battlefield Park .

Additional popular day trips from DC include Yorktown, Colonial Williamsburg, Harper's Ferry, NYC, and vineyard and winery tours.

Bus Tours to Mount Vernon Estate

There are a few bus companies with regularly scheduled tours from Washington, D.C. to Mount Vernon.  

Expect the tour to last 5 - 6 hours round trip, unless the tour includes a stop in Arlington National Cemetery, which will add 2 hours to the trip.  

Most tours pass through Old Town Alexandria for a quick view.  

Be sure to read our guide to Mount Vernon Estate before you go.  

It is also possible to take mass transit to the estate as well as a boat cruise.

NOTE: Entry to Mount Vernon is included for free with the purchase of the Explorer Pass, a tourist attraction discount pass.  

USA Guided Tours

There is still one option for a private luxury bus or minivan half-day tour that includes Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria.

This tour includes transportation to and from Washington DC with stops in Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon.

You'll have a live guide and an entrance ticket to tour inside the mansion at Mount Vernon.

It has great reviews about the cleanliness of the bus, the professionalism and knowledge of the guide, and the quality of the tour stops.

Purchase your tickets here.

Use our  Guide to the Circulator's National Mall  route as a self-guided bus tour of the memorials and museums.

Are Bus Tours a Good Way to Travel?

Washington, DC is a very walkable city if you're looking to explore the main sites, but some guests prefer to look into bus tours.

If you're looking to explore some of the further afield sites like the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial (which is accessible by Metro and walkable from our Arlington Cemetery tour) or the US Air Force Memorial, a bus tour is a great idea.

Something to note is that on the National Mall , having a bus doesn't actually save you any walking!

Due to the location of WWII, Vietnam, Korean, and Lincoln Memorials and their designated pick up/drop off locations for buses, you'll still need to walk around the memorials just as much as you would on a walking tour of the National Mall.

Some of the DC Bus tours do offer double-decker buses and there is hop on hop off options.

These can be a great way to get around the city between tourist attractions.

PROS OF A BUS TOUR

You can get to locations that are further away.

Climate controlled vehicles.

A hop-on hop-off bus tour can save you time and money on transportation costs.

CONS OF A BUS TOUR

Pre-recorded commentary (unless you get a guided bus tour!)

Not able to ask questions easily about what you're seeing.

Long waits between buses (unless you get a guided bus tour!)

And much, much more

About the author.

Canden Arciniega

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

• Washington DC
• Tour Guides

Glass-top or Open-top Convertible Bus Tour

There’s no better way to tour Washington, DC, than with USA Guided Tours’ open-top or glass-top convertible tour bus! This unparalleled, open-air sightseeing experience features our glass-top, convertible Mercedes-Benz Sprinter—the first ever seen in the nation’s capital!

Hop aboard and catch incredible panoramic views with an expert tour guide as your chauffeur and narrator. You will begin by exploring the National Mall to observe the United States Capitol, White House, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr., Memorial, and much more while passing by and learning about other significant landmarks!

This tour operates year-round, rain or shine. The glass-top roof, when closed, is completely waterproof and air-tight, offering a climate-controlled environment, so sudden weather or temperature changes are never a problem! Please note that convertible buses switch from open-tops to glass-tops between Oct 15 – Apr 1 due to colder temperatures.

Seasonal variations in the itinerary offer unique experiences. In the summer months, relax with a complimentary boat cruise along the beautiful Potomac River and Georgetown Waterfront after lunch, with the option to purchase a meal at one of the many waterfront restaurants. In contrast, the winter season features an afternoon scenic bus tour through Virginia, showcasing the Pentagon, Air Force Memorial, Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial, and Arlington National Cemetery.

• US Capitol Building (outside only)
• White House (outside only)
• World War II Memorial
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• FDR Memorial
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
• Korean War Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• Georgetown Waterfront Park (guided stop + lunch break)
• Boat Cruise - 1-hr leisurely cruise on the Potomac River (Apr 1 to Oct 15)

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Best of DC — VIP Bus Tour

Experience Washington DC like a VIP: Our ultimate day tour with exclusive access to the National Archives and the U.S. Capitol Buildings. Book now for a presidential journey!

DC at Dusk Bus Tour

Experience the enchantment of Washington DC at night: Award-winning tour with expert guides and luxury transport. Book your memorable evening journey today!

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DCTrails is the premier Washington DC day tour charter and tour bus company, operating in Washington DC, Maryland and Virginia. Our 66 new state-of-the-art motorcoaches serve the entire continental US & Canada. We have an experience of transporting 1,000,000+ passengers over 2.5 million safe miles annually and are dedicated to providing our customers with professional, comfortable, courteous and reliable service. Not only have we earned the highest rating given by the DOT (Department of Transportation) but have also been consistently awarded the highest rating from the DOD (Department of Defense), who certifies us to transport military personnel throughout the US.

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The DC Twilight Tour was excellent. Britney is a very funny insightful tour guide, she had great knowledge of the area and monuments … Definitely don’t miss the tour!

It was an AWESOME EXPERIENCE!!!!!! The driver was great at handling the bus and keeping us safe and the tour guide was INCREDIBLE and KNOWLEDGEABLE!!!!! She knew her stuff and her personality was great!

All the drivers and guides were awesome and full of informative. I would recommend them to anyone traveling to the DC area…

The tour guides & drivers were professional & knowledgeable. We witnessed kindness with all of them. Definitely recommend…

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Washington, DC – A People's Journey

A group bus tour, this package includes:.

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• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
• African-American Heritage Driving/Walking Tour
• Tour of Illuminated Monuments
• U.S. Capitol and U.S. Capitol Visitor’s Center
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• Frederick Douglass Historical Site
• Gift for All
• Luggage Handling
• All Taxes and Meal Gratuities
• 2 Comps Per Bus of 40 or more

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Loudoun Farm Tour begins Saturday, now with free shuttle buses

Jeff Clabaugh | [email protected]

May 13, 2024, 9:42 AM

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The Spring Loudoun County Farm Tour is May 18 and May 19. This year there will be free shuttle buses to take you to 30-plus Virginia farms opening to the public.

The Loudoun County Department of Economic Development, which organizes the yearly fall and spring farm tours said it got great feedback after piloting a “hop on hop off” shuttle bus during last fall’s tour on a much smaller scale.

The 20-passenger “hop on hop off” shuttle buses will pick up passengers at the Ashburn Metro station throughout the day and operate on a constant loop between the towns of Leesburg, Lovettsville and Hillsboro.

“From each of the towns, you’ll be able to pick up a smaller van and go on a guided tour of anywhere from three to four farm stops, without ever having to drive your car or having to navigate,” said Colleen Kardasz, assistant director at the Loudoun County Department of Economic Development.

Shuttle buses will be on a constant loop between farms from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday.

Farms that open to visitors are diverse, from llamas and alpacas, to those that produce honey, mushrooms and protein, as well as produce growers.

“You can go to two different garlic farms on the spring farm tour. You could go to Green Hills Nursery and learn about the tea that they are growing, and buy some green tea grown in Loudoun County. Brookfield Dairy Farm is on the tour, and they are one of the last remaining dairy farms in Loudoun. You can see their practices and also purchase some ice cream made with their dairy,” Kardasz said.

Buddy Rizer, executive director of Loudoun Economic Development, said the tour “serves as a testament to the incredible diversity of farms that call Loudoun County home.”

“Each farm offers a unique experience, reflecting the ingenuity, passion and dedication of our local farmers,” Rizer said.

Many farms will also have educational components on agricultural practices and sustainability initiatives.

Attendance for the farm tours is tough to gauge, since many farms don’t count visitors, but during the fall tour, one farm said it had 2,000 visitors, with most of the other farms recording between 200 and 500 visitors.

A list and a map of farms participating in this year’s Spring Loudoun County Farm Tour is online .

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© 2024 WTOP. All Rights Reserved. This website is not intended for users located within the European Economic Area.

Jeff Clabaugh has spent 20 years covering the Washington region's economy and financial markets for WTOP as part of a partnership with the Washington Business Journal, and officially joined the WTOP newsroom staff in January 2016.

• @wtopclabaugh

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8 best things to do with kids in the D.C. area this weekend

Music, festivals, farm tours and more.

Looking for something fun to do with kids in the D.C. area this weekend? Here are our top picks.

Greek Festival at St. Sophia’s Cathedral

For fans of roast lamb and homemade spanakopita and loukoumades, it doesn’t get much better than this annual festival at St. Sophia’s Cathedral near Woodley Park, which features three days of food, music and dancing. Greek bands perform at 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, while folk dancers, DJs and children’s groups are featured throughout the weekend. There are long lines for gyros and souvlaki cooked over coals (smell them and you’ll understand why), while the “Taverna” serves Greek beer and wine. A bazaar features Byzantine icons, jewelry, CDs and Greek soccer scarves, while a moon bounce and games keep the kids busy. If you’ve never visited St. Sophia’s before, tours are offered on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. Friday from 4 to 10 p.m., Saturday from noon to 10 p.m., Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. Free.

Music in the Meadow at the National Arboretum

Bring a picnic to enjoy while watching the concert in the Arboretum’s Ellipse Meadow, featuring local neo-cumbian band Cumbia Heights. This event, supported by the D.C. Commission on the Arts and Humanities, is pay-what-you-can. Note that ticketing is only for concert access; the grounds won’t be open during the show. Friday from 7 to 8:30 p.m. $25 recommended ticket price.

Fiesta Asia

The annual Fiesta Asia shuts down Pennsylvania Avenue between Third and Sixth streets NW to showcase more than 20 Asian cultures in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Look for live music and dance performances representing multiple countries, a karaoke stage, a cosplay contest, martial arts demonstrations, hands-on games and crafts for kids, a large vendor area, and a “food alley” featuring local and New York City restaurants that is apparently 50 percent larger than last year’s. Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Free .

Loudoun Farm Tour

The Loudoun Farm Tour is a way to immerse city slickers — kids and adults alike — in the rural communities on the other side of Dulles Airport. The 38 farms open their doors for more than just talks about farm management or letting kids come face to face with barnyard friends such as pigs, donkeys and llamas. Over two days, taste raw honey straight from an apiary or try a scoop of all-natural ice cream on a dairy farm. Learn how craft beer goes from the field to the bottle or tour farms dedicated to mushrooms, garlic or tea leaves. This year, the tour includes shuttle buses running on loops between farms, leaving from four locations, including the Ashburn Metro station. Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free; farms may charge for tours and activities .

Africa on the Avenue at Bruce Monroe Park

Washington’s African heritage and community are celebrated during Africa on the Avenue, held in Park View’s Bruce Monroe Park on Saturday. There’s music from a variety of DJs and artists, including the Ethiopian fusion of the Feedel Band, the Grammy-nominated songs of Malian griot Cheick Hamala Diabate, and the Farafina Kan drummers and dancers. For families, there’s a foam party, double Dutch, hula hoops and interactive art projects. Vendors will be selling African coffee, head wraps, braiding, clothing, books and pepper sauces. Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Free .

Bladensburg Waterfront Art Festival

Painting and pontoon boats meet at Bladensburg Waterfront Park’s outdoor arts party, which features a market of local artists, hands-on community art projects, demonstrations and activities for kids. Adults can sip beer or wine, and all ages can enjoy live music and free boat tours on the Anacostia River. Saturday from noon to 5 p.m. Free .

Lincoln Strawberry Festival

Supermarket strawberries have nothing on a freshly picked red berry, which you’ll find in abundance at the inaugural Lincoln Strawberry Festival in Loudoun County. This two-day fundraiser from Wegmeyer Farms begins Saturday morning with a strawberry pancake smorgasbord (buy a separate breakfast ticket in advance) and continues with musical performances, a strawberry baby fashion show, tractor rides, and eating competitions for strawberry pie and strawberry ice cream. Sunday’s schedule is similar, swapping in 4-H animal presentations in the morning instead of pancakes. Each day, you’ll be able to pick your own strawberries for purchase while supplies last. Proceeds benefit a variety of local causes. Saturday and Sunday from 10:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. $15; free for kids age 2 and under .

The Running of the Chihuahuas at the Wharf

The Wharf’s quirky combination of the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo is back for the 12th year on Sunday, after rain on May 4 postponed the original event. The annual Running of the Chihuahuas involves more than 100 of these tiny dogs sprinting in groups of eight on a 60-foot “racetrack.” One Chihuahua eventually emerges as the fastest of the pack, winning $100 cash and swag during this bracket-style tournament. Only Chihuahuas can race, but dogs of all types can enter an all-breed dog costume contest, while human spectators enjoy the Pacifico Beer Garden, a DJ, a pet photo booth and an adoptable-dog parade. This event is very popular: Arrive early for the best views of the track, or watch on a giant video projection screen. Sunday from 2 to 5 p.m. Free admission. All spots for racing Chihuahuas are filled.

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Stray Kids Confirm 2024 Tour Dates, Perform ‘Lose My Breath’ on ‘Good Morning America’

Band member Felix revealed that the K-pop group will hit the road this year.

By Gil Kaufman

Gil Kaufman

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Stray Kids staged a takeover of Good Morning America on Wednesday morning (May 15), dropping into the show’s New York studios to take a few questions from fans before busting out a performance of their new single.

Stray Kids Team Up With Charlie Puth for Energetic ‘Lose My Breath’ Single…

Trending on billboard.

The group them performed the song in studio, singing and dancing along to the song in front of a wall of flashing neon lights as the studio full of fans sang along and held up their armloads of tributes.

At press time the only announced dates for the group’s tour were a July 12 gig at the Ippodromo SNAI La Maura in Milano, Italy, followed by a July 14 show in Hyde Park in London, and an August date at Lollapalooza in Chicago, which runs from the Aug. 1-4.

Watch the “Lose My Breath” performance here .

JUST IN: @Stray_Kids announce they're heading on a world tour LIVE on @GMA ! #StrayKids #스트레이키즈 #LoseMyBreath pic.twitter.com/sBjZgoz75H — Good Morning America (@GMA) May 15, 2024

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