The Shining City Tour is an after-dark tour of the lights and radiance of Washington, D.C. Aptly called the “Shining City,” Pierre L’Enfant drew his inspiration for the design and layout of Washington, D.C. from the city of Paris, which is called the “City of Lights.” Our nation’s capitol is a beautiful representation of the principles of freedom our nation was founded on and to which it holds today.
The White House is the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States. It is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, D.C. and has been the residence of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800. The term "White House" is often used as a metonym for the president and his advisers.
The World War II Memorial is a memorial of national significance dedicated to Americans who served in the armed forces and as civilians during World War II. Consisting of 56 pillars and a pair of small triumphal arches surrounding a square and fountain, it sits on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., on the former site of the Rainbow Pool at the eastern end of the Reflecting Pool, between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument.
The Jefferson Memorial is a presidential memorial built in Washington, D.C., 1939-1943 Under the sponsorship of President Franklin D. Roosevelt. For Roosevelt it was a suitable memorial to a Founding Father of the United States, and the founder of the Democratic Party. Thomas Jefferson (1743–1826).
Martin Luther King Jr. (January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968) was an American Baptist minister and activist who became the most visible spokesperson and leader in the civil rights movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. Born in Atlanta, King is best known for advancing civil rights through nonviolence tactics through his Christian beliefs.
The United States Air Force Memorial honors the service of the personnel of the United States Air Force and its heritage organizations. The Memorial is located in Arlington County, Virginia, on the grounds of Fort Myer near The Pentagon, and adjacent to Arlington National Cemetery, towards intersection of Columbia Pike and South Joyce Street. It was the last project of American architect James Ingo Freed (known for the design of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum) with the firm Pei Cobb Freed & Partners for the United States Air Force Memorial Foundation.
The United States Marine Corps War Memorial (Iwo Jima Memorial) is a national memorial located in Arlington County, Virginia, in the United States. Dedicated in 1954, it is located in Arlington Ridge Park with George Washington Memorial Parkway, near the Ord-Weitzel Gate to Arlington National Cemetery and the Netherlands Carillon. The war memorial is dedicated to all U.S. Marine Corps personnel who died in the defense of the United States since 1775.
The Korean War Veterans Memorial is located in Washington, D.C.'s West Potomac Park, southeast of the Lincoln Memorial and just south of the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall. It memorializes those who served in the Korean War.
The Lincoln Memorial is an American national memorial built to honor the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. It is located on the western end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C., across from the Washington Monument. The architect was Henry Bacon; the designer of the primary statue – Abraham Lincoln, 1920 – was Daniel Chester French; the Lincoln statue was carved by the Piccirilli Brothers; and the painter of the interior murals was Jules Guerin. Dedicated in May 1922, it is one of several memorials built to honor an American president. It has always been a major tourist attraction and since the 1930s has been a symbolic center focused on race relations.
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a 2-acre U.S. national memorial in Washington, D.C. It honors service members of the U.S. armed forces who fought in the Vietnam War, service members who died in service in Vietnam/South East Asia, and those service members who were unaccounted for during the war.
The United States Capitol, often called the Capitol Building, is the home of the United States Congress and the seat of the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government. It is located on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C. Though no longer at the geographic center of the Federal District, the Capitol forms the origin point for the District's street-numbering system and the District's four quadrants.
Cross street is New York Ave. (in front of the White House Gift Shop)
Look for tour guide in red Liberty Tours shirt in front of White House gift shop. An A-frame with Liberty Tours advertisement will on sidewalk. Check-in with tour guide to ensure you enter proper vehicle before tour begins. Enjoy your tour!
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and a vibrant city filled with iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of political significance, cultural diversity, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
The National Mall is a large, open park in downtown Washington, D.C., featuring numerous iconic landmarks, monuments, and museums. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city.
This museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features a vast collection of natural history specimens and exhibits, including dinosaurs, gems, and cultural artifacts.
The United States Capitol is the meeting place of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American democratic government. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol building and its grounds.
The International Spy Museum is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to the history of espionage and the world of intelligence. It features an extensive collection of spy artifacts and exhibits.
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets, upscale shopping, and renowned dining scene. It is also home to the historic Georgetown University and the C&O Canal.
A half-smoke is a type of sausage that is smoked and then grilled, typically served with chili, cheese, and onions. It is a D.C. classic and can be found at various local eateries, including Ben's Chili Bowl.
Maryland-style crab cakes are a local favorite, made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They are typically served with a side of remoulade sauce.
A classic American breakfast dish consisting of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, typically served on an English muffin. The Founding Farmers restaurant is known for its delicious eggs Benedict.
A popular side dish in D.C., sweet potato fries are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli or ketchup. They can be found at many restaurants and food trucks throughout the city.
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall features beautiful foliage.
United States Dollar (USD)
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)
120VV, 60HzHz
Washington, D.C. is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Union Station
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
The Metro system is efficient and reliable, with six color-coded lines serving major attractions and neighborhoods.
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Car, Bike, Scooter
Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The site features a museum, a mansion, and beautiful gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of one of America's founding fathers.
Old Town Alexandria is a charming historic district featuring cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. It is a popular destination for shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts alike.
Great Falls Park is a scenic park featuring breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Potomac River. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Price varies by option