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Washington DC Hop On Hop Off - Bus Tours

Washington dc sightseeing bus tours, ( ) experiences found.

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Experience Washington DC in Hop On Hop Off Bus Tours

The capital of the US is known for its neoclassical monuments and iconic buildings with three major easily recognizable landmarks – the White House, the Supreme Court, and the Capitol. If you happen to visit the Capitol, look out for the popular marble baths. Also, there are underground tunnels and a crypt made for George Washington. Did you know that Washington DC has the busiest subway system in the country? That’s why an open bus trip is the best bet to explore the capital city.

See the White House, Capitol Building, and the Supreme Court! Then, stop by the Smithsonian Institution Lincoln Memorial and the National Mall. You can even pair your tour with admission to other attractions. For additional savings, why not combine your tickets with a trip to Madame Tussauds, Newseum, or the International Spy Museum with a Flex Pass? Additionally, you can also choose from an array of curated 15 experiences including the Monuments & Memorials Bike Tour, International Spy Museum, Potomac Water Taxi, George Washington's Mount Vernon and more. Setting a manageable budget is what to do in Washington DC!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: what is the best time to book a washington dc hop-on hop-off tour.

The best time to visit Washington DC is during the autumn months which offer respite from sweltering heat for convenient sightseeing. September to November and March to May mark the high season so be ready to expect heavy crowds. The weather is pleasant and changing leaves add to the beauty of the monuments. If you are looking to save bucks and avoid the worst crowds, we recommend visiting in February. You might be able to find great deals on accommodation in the low season.

Q: What are the key attractions covered in the bus tour?

The key attractions and landmarks covered in the sightseeing bus tour include Union Station, Botanical Garden, WWII Memorial, Ford’s Theater & Madame Tussauds, Vietnam War Memorial, Arlington Cemetery, Lincoln North, White House, US Marine Corps War Memorial, National Zoo, Washington Monument, and so on.

Q: Where can I find a list of all the stops and a map of the various Hop-On Hop-Off Washington DC tour routes?

You can visit the relevant product page and check the Useful Downloads section to find the latest information as routes, stops, and timings change frequently.

Q: Is the Washington DC hop-on hop-off tour worth it?

Hop-On Hop-Off Washington DC bus tour covers all major attractions of the city with strategically placed stops. Add to that, you can also combine your sightseeing bus tour with a Flex Sightseeing Pass. These tours also include free guided walking tours, dining options, biking tours, and immersive audio commentary. You can enjoy live commentary in several languages such as English, German, French, Spanish, Cantonese, Japanese, Italian, and Russian to ensure that you don’t miss a thing.

Other Hop On Hop Off Destinations

• New York City
• San Francisco
• Washington DC
• Los Angeles
• Johannesburg
• San Antonio
• Reykjavik Iceland
• St-Petersburg
• Benalmadena
• Thessaloniki
• Kristiansand
• BUENOS AIRES
• Hop On Hop Off Bus Offers and Deals

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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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The 4 Best Washington, D.C., Bus Tours

A bus tour of the nation's capital may be just the ticket to get your bearings.

Washington.org

Bus tours – particularly hop-on/hop-off and nightime excursions – are a popular way to explore Washington, D.C.'s top attractions in just a few hours. They also provide a good overview of the nation's capital.

Based on our experiences as well as recent reviews, we've identified the best Washington, D.C., bus tours in the most popular categories. No matter which type of bus tour you choose, you'll visit the famous government buildings, monuments, war memorials, museums and other sights for which the city is known.

Best Hop-on/Hop-off: Historic Tours of America Old Town Trolley Tours

Price: Adults from $70; kids from $44 Duration: 90 minutes

With 15 stops where you can hop on or hop off, this bus tour allows travelers to explore Washington, D.C., at their own pace. Stops include major museums, monuments and The Wharf for shopping and dining. Historic Tours of America is also permitted to take tour-goers into Arlington National Cemetery (for an additional fee). Tours are narrated by expert guides (no pre-recorded audio here), who receive praise from past visitors, particularly for their ability to keep everyone including kids engaged. Children under age 4 ride free.

Tours operate daily throughout the year, rain or shine. Historic Tours of America also offers a Monuments by Moonlight Tour .

Check prices & availability on:

Best Nighttime: USA Guided Tours – DC at Dusk Monument Tour

Price: Adults from $64; kids from $54 Duration: 3 hours

Seeing D.C. and its monuments aglow is a special treat, and while several companies offer evening tours, USA Guided Tours does them best. Stops include the White House, the Washington Monument , the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial . Recent tourgoers appreciate that the bus tour covers so many highlights, and that there are ample opportunities to get off the bus, walk around and take photos.

Rides depart nightly at 7:30 p.m. from the U.S. Navy Memorial. USA Guided Tours also offers other tours in D.C., including an African American History and Culture Bus Tour .

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Best Private: Continental City Tours

Price: From $480 per group of up to five people Duration: Roughly 4 hours

For a more personalized option, consider the private excursions offered by Continental City Tours. An expert guide will meet you wherever and whenever is most convenient for your needs, and will then take you to the landmarks of your choosing in a spacious SUV.

Recent tourgoers highly recommend exploring Washington, D.C., with this tour, noting how knowledgable and accommodating the tour guides are. When making your reservation, be sure to specify that you want a private tour, as the company also offers tours via sprinter van with up to 14 passengers.

Best Eco-friendly: Intrepid Urban Adventures - USA - Washington Mall & Monuments by Electric Car Tour

Price: From $69 per person Duration: 2 hours

Forgo the bus – but enjoy the benefits of a bus tour – with this sustainable excursion offered by Intrepid Urban Adventures. On this eco-friendly tour, you'll ride around in an electric Red Roadster as you cruise past historic landmarks and stop at others, including the Franklin Delano Roosevelt, Lincoln and Martin Luther King Jr. memorials . Tours depart multiple times daily.

Recent visitors describe the tour guides as enthusiastic and personable. They also say that the open-air vehicles are a great mode of transportation for exploring the city, especially if you're a first-time visitor to D.C.

Intrepid Urban Adventures also offers a nighttime electric car tour .

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Tours in Washington, D.C.
• The Best Hotels in Washington, D.C.
• The Best Weekend Getaways from Washington, D.C.

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

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Tours & Sightseeing

Washington, DC sightseeing and tours information

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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 bus tour options available in Washington, DC.

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

DC might not be huge, but there are many great attractions to see here, many of them on these DC bus tours.

We think the best way to get around the memorials and downtown DC is on foot.

But, hop-on-hop-off bus tours can be a good alternative for tired feet or for those looking to get between main sites.

Something unique about DC to keep in mind is security restrictions - large vehicles are not allowed near some federal buildings.

So, the bus stops for the Capitol, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, White House, and even some memorials will still require walking!

DC Hop On Hop Off Bus Route Map

While specific routes vary depending on the company and the type of tour you want to take, most of the main attractions in DC are included.

Capitol Hill

Buses are not allowed on Capitol Hill, but there is an official bus drop-off at Garfield Circle on the National Mall side of the US Capitol.

This will let you hop off to visit the Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and US Capitol - remember you must walk up the hill to get to these buildings.

(This is why our Capitol Hill walking tour is a better option!)

You can hop off for a quick photo of the Capitol building if you'd prefer.

Nearby Attractions:

• Supreme Court
• Library of Congress
• US Botanic Gardens
• White House

The bus tours will also stop at the White House, the official residence and workplace of the President of the United States.

The official drop off point is not directly at the White House (for the same security reasons as the US Capitol) but it is a short walk.

• White House Visitor Center

Memorials on the National Mall

Since the National Mall is one of the major attractions, there are a few stops along the National Mall to visit the poignant memorials that honor America's heroes:

• Lincoln Memorial: Pay tribute to Abraham Lincoln at this majestic monument.
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Reflect on the sacrifices made during the Vietnam War.
• World War II Memorial: Commemorate the bravery and dedication of the Greatest Generation.

Please note that the stops are not directly at each memorial! You will still have to walk to the memorials.

Most companies have a stop near the Lincoln Memorial and one near the WWII Memorial.

Memorials on the Tidal Basin

Continue your exploration along the scenic Tidal Basin, home to more monumental tributes:

• Jefferson Memorial: Admire the neoclassical architecture dedicated to Thomas Jefferson.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Celebrate the life and legacy of the civil rights leader.
• Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial: Walk through the unique memorial dedicated to FDR's four terms in office.

The bus stops for Tidal Basin are usually between FDR and MLK Memorial and near to at Jefferson Memorial. Just as most sites, you will still need to walk to the memorials themselves from the bus stop.

During the Cherry Blossom Festival in Spring, these stops are closed!

Smithsonian Institution

Immerse yourself in culture and history at the Smithsonian Institution.

With numerous museums and galleries, you'll find something to pique your interest, whether it's art, history, or science.

Most buses have one stop near the American History and Natural History Museums and one stop near the Air and Space Museum.

International Spy Museum

Located south of the National Mall in L'Enfant Plaza, there is often a stop at this museum.

Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial

This memorial is located in Virginia, next to Arlington National Cemetery. Since it is so popular at night, it is included in almost all the evening bus tour routes.

All the bus companies include a stop downtown but are not in the exact location. In general, this is where you can get off to see:

• Ford's Theatre
• National Portrait Gallery

But you must walk a few blocks to most of these locations, depending on your route.

Union Station

Visit Union Station, a bustling transportation hub and architectural masterpiece.

Enjoy the impressive Beaux-Arts design and take in the vibrant atmosphere of this historic landmark.

Union Station is the hub for bus tours - most routes start here!

Not all bus companies have a route that includes the below stops, but you may be able to upgrade to an extra route that drives through these neighborhoods.

Experience the charm of Georgetown, a historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and vibrant dining scene.

Discover the rich history and modern allure of this beloved area.

Embassy Row

Drive along Embassy Row, where you'll see the impressive residences of foreign diplomats.

Learn about the international community in Washington, D.C., and the role these embassies play in global relations.

Arlington National Cemetery

Pay your respects to the nation's fallen heroes and witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

There is only one official hop-on hop-off trolley option for Arlington Cemetery, which we discuss below.

However, you may see the option for a bus transfer that brings you to the cemetery so you can tour on your own.

Arlington Cemetery has its own Metro station, a large parking lot, and is walkable from Lincoln Memorial, so this isn't a necessary option, but if you're already taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour, it might be a nice bonus.

HOP-ON-HOP-OFF DC BUS TOURS

There are many great services in Washington, DC, that offer commentary and transportation to all of the area's most popular and historic sites.

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 reliable transportation and 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 valid for either one or two days, and the two-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 can sit above the cars.

From this vantage point, it’s much easier to see all of the notable sites around Washington, D.C.  

Hotel Shuttle Service is provided at select hotels and times.

Although tours are only in English, 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 takes you around the National Mall to see all the memorials and downtown DC, they also offer a tour that is essentially a shuttle that provides transport to and from Arlington National Cemetery.

If you opt for their gold pass, you will receive a 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 2024, 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 a good sign.

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

Most 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 worldwide.

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

Many connection points 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 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 are available for one, two, or three days. 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. 

While this rating is lower than that of the previously mentioned competitor, it is comparable to 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 only have a short 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-guided, where your driver doubles as your tour guide. This 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 options here include hotel pick-up, and you will have the same bus and driver (and maybe tour guide) for the entire tour.

One of the biggest advantages of these 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 seeing the same number of sights with the hop-on-hop-off buses will take much longer.

This may not be the best option for those who 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 you choose 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 it's a private tour, you can choose what to see and how long to spend at each site.

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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 and 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, which is reflected in their prices.  

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

Except for 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 guide you through the memorials is 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, 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 almost every notable monument and landmark in D.C. and take a 1-hour cruise on the Potomac River, 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.  

The tour includes a lunch break while cruising on the Potomac, but 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 and 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 among the most 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 reasonably 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 with an ANC tour. 

If you choose a bus tour ticket that doesn't include the cemetery, consider taking our walking tour or 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

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 , which 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!

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

The trip, which takes 5 hours in total, begins with a visit to George Washington's estate and ends with a guided walk-through of ANC. 

Prices are much 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 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 trendy among families and couples.

Sadly, DC Duck Tours has closed and this is not an option in DC. We only leave it in because so many people still ask!

NIGHT BUS TOURS OF DC

There is something wonderful 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 want to sit.

Thankfully, the services listed above offer many night bus tours. We won't repeat the company overviews for those we have listed above.  

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 the prices reflect this.  

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

• US Capitol Building
• 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 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 explaining 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's.

This is probably because 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 wealth of information about our nation's history.

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. The only 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 halted operations and is not offering bus tours as of July 2024.

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, George Washington's home, 16 miles (25 km) south of the District of Columbia.  

Other tours will visit Thomas Jefferson's Monticello and 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

A few bus companies have 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.  

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 and 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, including 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 excellent 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.

Self-Guided Bus Tour

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 locations of the 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 are 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.

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.

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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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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!

Our convertible tour bus offers a unique sightseeing experience with an open-air view when weather permits, and a climate-controlled, glass-top roof for comfort during sudden weather changes.

Seasonal Note: Convertible buses switch from open-tops to glass-tops between October 15 and April 1 to accommodate colder temperatures.

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!

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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African American History and Culture Bus Tour

Explore pivotal civil rights sites: Join our insightful tour, including entry to the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Don't miss this historic journey!

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!

Not Exactly What You’re Looking For?

Book a private tour and explore DC on your terms!

Excellent tour! Elvis is a walking black history encyclopedia!

What an incredible tour! Just look at all the amazing sites that we got to visit! I loved doing the night tour because although it goes fast, you avoid the crowds and the heat.

As I sat in my nice air conditioned bus an and sipped my complimentary water I was glad I didn’t take the other tours in the middle of July during the muggiest part of summer. Worth the money!

Rachel is an amazing tour guide. Her knowledge about NYC is stunning. Very satisfying tour. It is a must for everyone who wants to know almost everything about NYC in one day!

Me and my friend did the day tour tour, omg what fun, so much info, seen places I didn't think about. So worth the money, I would so do again!

Our guide was outstanding. He was extremely knowledgeable and polite. And kudos to our bus driver for maneuvering effortlessly through NY traffic!

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Harris, Walz tour southern Georgia by bus, chasing rural votes in key state

The tour is the Democratic campaign’s latest effort to compete in Georgia, which has become a critical battleground state.

SAVANNAH, Ga. — Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz traveled across southern Georgia on Wednesday, the pair’s second bus tour in two weeks and their first burst of campaigning since the Democratic National Convention ended last Thursday.

The tour, which is scheduled to end with a Harris rally in Savannah on Thursday, is the campaign’s latest effort to compete in Georgia, which has become a critical battleground in the month since President Joe Biden dropped out of the race.

“Campaigning in this part of the Peach State is critical as it represents a diverse coalition of voters, including rural, suburban, and urban Georgians — with a large proportion of Black voters and working class families,” the campaign said in a statement announcing the tour.

The bus tour features more intimate settings and smaller groups, following the template Harris and Walz set while traveling through western Pennsylvania on Aug. 18.

Shortly after Air Force Two landed in Georgia on Wednesday afternoon, Harris and Walz chatted with students at a school in Hinesville, which is near Savannah.

“We wanted to come by just to let you know that our country is counting on you. All of you,” Harris told the students. “You are leaders, by the very fact that you are here in this room.”

She added: “We’re so proud of you. Your generation, all that you guys stand for … is what is going to propel our country into the next era of what we can do and what we can be.”

Later, Harris and Walz stopped at a barbecue restaurant.

Harris’s 30-vehicle motorcade included CNN’s Dana Bash, according to the Savannah Morning News . On Thursday, Bash is scheduled to conduct Harris’s first interview since she became the Democratic nominee.

Republicans, including those tied to GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump , have criticized Harris for not holding a news conference or sitting down for an extended media interview since Biden stepped aside July 21, making his vice president the likely nominee. Instead, Harris has largely stuck to more scripted events, including rallies that have attracted enthusiastic crowds and energized many Democrats.

That raises the stakes for the CNN interview, which is scheduled to air at 9 p.m. Eastern time Thursday, and which Harris and Walz will do together.

Biden narrowly won Georgia in 2020, becoming the first Democrat to do so since Bill Clinton in 1992. But many Democrats had privately given up on the idea of carrying the state in November, with polls showing Trump with a considerable lead over Biden.

Those same polls have largely shifted in Democrats’ favor since Harris entered the race, and the party is investing more time and resources in Georgia as it attempts to block Trump’s potential pathways to 270 electoral votes. If the Harris-Walz ticket can capture Georgia — or North Carolina, a nearby state that has not given its electoral votes to a Democrat since Barack Obama in 2008 — it would greatly increase the Democrats’ chances of winning the White House and complicate Trump’s path.

Both Democrats and Republicans have focused on Georgia in recent weeks, with Trump and Harris each seeing its 16 electoral votes as crucial for most paths to victory .

Harris traveled to Atlanta last month for a rally that featured rappers Megan Thee Stallion and Quavo, drawing more than 10,000 people.

“I am very clear: The path to the White House runs right through this state,” Harris said at the event. “You all helped us win in 2020, and we’re going to do it again in 2024.”

Trump and his running mate, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, held a rally a few days later in the same venue, speaking to a near-capacity crowd.

During that rally, Trump unleashed a fusillade of strong personal attacks against Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, a popular Republican, resurfacing a bitter intraparty battle in the crucial state.

Trump called Kemp “Little Brian”; denounced him as “disloyal”; suggested the governor wanted Republicans to lose elections; and argued Georgia would have better crime and economic numbers if Kemp were no longer in charge.

Kemp responded on X that “my focus is on winning this November and saving our country from Kamala Harris and the Democrats — not engaging in petty personal insults, attacking fellow Republicans, or dwelling on the past. You should do the same, Mr. President, and leave my family out of it.”

Trump later issued a conciliatory statement in a social media post, thanking Kemp “for all of your help and support in Georgia.”

The tour through Georgia is the second bus trip that Harris and Walz have taken through a battleground state. They also traveled through western Pennsylvania shortly before appearing at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago last week.

During the Pennsylvania swing, Harris and Walz greeted supporters at an airport hangar, dropped in on a high school football practice, handed out baked goods to firefighters, met with volunteers and participated in a phone-banking session. The trip took them to Allegheny County, home to Pittsburgh and a large cache of Democratic voters, as well as Beaver County, a more Republican-leaning area that Trump carried in 2020.

“On the bus tour, the Vice President and Governor Walz will meet directly with voters in their communities, much like their western Pennsylvania bus tour which included stops at a local campaign field office and a high school football practice,” the campaign said ahead of the Georgia swing.

Vance visited southern Georgia last Thursday, calling the state “one of the most important” to the outcome of the election.

“Kamala Harris wants to take San Francisco liberalism nationwide, and I think we’re not going to let her,” the Republican vice-presidential candidate said as he met with local law enforcement at an event focused on crime and the border. “Georgia is not going to let her, and I think it starts right here in Valdosta.”

Election 2024

Follow live updates on the 2024 election and Vice President Kamala Harris and former president Donald Trump from our reporters on the campaign trail and in Washington

Presidential polls: Check out how Harris and Trump stack up, according to The Washington Post’s presidential polling averages of seven battleground states.

Senate control: Senate Democrats are at risk of losing their slim 51-49 majority this fall. The Post breaks down the eight races and three long shots that could determine Senate control .

VP picks: Harris has officially secured the Democratic presidential nomination chose chosen Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a Midwestern Democrat and former high school teacher , to be her running mate. GOP presidential nominee Trump chose Sen. JD Vance (Ohio) , a rising star in the Republican Party. Here’s where Vance and Walz stand on key policies .

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Harris aims to expand electoral map with two-day Georgia bus tour, Savannah rally

Trump was in Detroit on Monday for a National Guard Association conference speech. He is due back on the campaign trail Thursday and Friday, with a town hall in Wisconsin and rally in Pennsylvania — both key battlegrounds. He spent some of his Monday remarks going after Harris and Biden. “If you have a smart president, you’ll do fine,” Trump said, insinuating that Biden hasn’t been one and Harris would not be one before calling them both “incompetent.”

Trump also accused Harris of trying to take his proposal to get rid of taxes on tips.

“Every time I come in and say really bad things, they end up like I said, ‘No tax on tips.’ It caught on like crazy — no tax on tips,” Trump said to chuckles from the military audience. “This doesn’t affect you guys. You’re not big for tips. … You don’t need tips. But there are a lot of people that no tax on tips is a big deal.

“I went two, three months, and all of a sudden she’s making a speech,” he said. “It goes, ‘Oh, by the way, no tax on tips.’ It didn’t play well. But they do that.”

As Harris was prepping for a planned Sept. 10 debate with Trump and her Georgia swing, senior Trump campaign officials fired off a memo to colleagues advising them not to be surprised if Harris gets “a temporary 2 to 3 point bump” after last week’s Democratic National Convention.

“These bumps do not last,” the senior Trump officials wrote. “While the media is going to focus on the national polls, we need to keep our eye on the ball — that is the polling in our target states. Our goal is to get to 270 [Electoral College votes] and winning these states is how we do it. We’ll let the media make mountains out of molehills, while we keep driving forward.”

Giles Alston, an analyst for Oxford Analytica, wrote in a recent white paper that Harris’ successful convention “merely means the two candidates start the final stretch of the campaign on level terms, making their September debate the next crucial event.” (Oxford Analytica is owned by FiscalNote, which also is the parent company of CQ Roll Call.)

“Although Harris has turned Biden’s deficit in national polls into a marginal lead over Trump and drawn level in several battleground states, that reflects the enthusiasm that greeted her assumption of the candidacy,” Alston added . “However, as the party learned in 2016, a successful convention is no guarantee of a successful election outcome.”

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