Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Board your glamourous, climate-controlled panoramic bus at the U.S. Navy Memorial for one of the best bus tours in Washington DC!
Expanding on our popular Highlights Tour, this six-hour excursion also includes a lunch break and the opportunity to travel through the Tidal Basin.
See the very best of Washington DC in one day! Enjoy guided walks around the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and more! For a unique experience, this tour includes a leisurely seasonal (Apr 1 to Sep 30) cruise on the Potomac River! In winter, we get to explore the Pentagon City.
Upgrade to our convertible tour bus for 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!
Available options
Upgrade: Glass-Top/Convertible
Duration: 6 hours: 6-hr guided bus tour<br/>Glass-Top Convertible: Small Group Glass Roof Convertible Sprinter Van. Open During the Spring & Summer For Fresh Air!
Bus + Boat + Entry Passes
all inclusive day tour: 8-hr guided bus tour includes a seasonal boat cruise + entry to the National Archives Building and the U.S. Capitol Building
Discover DC Guided Bus Tour
Duration: 6 hours: 6hrs tour approx<br/>Closed-Top Bus: Fully Guided Day Bus Tour in a Luxury Climate-Controlled Bus. Free Bottled Water. Lunch is Not Included in the Price.
What's included
Boat Cruise on the Potomac River (seasonal: April 1 to September 30)
Upgrade to glass-top bus available
English-Speaking Live Tour Guide (on and off the bus)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Starts/Ends
2
Stop 2
Guided Walking Tour of the U.S. Capitol Building (outside only)
3
Stop 3
Guided Walking Tour of the White House (outside only)
4
Stop 4
Guided Walking Tour of WWII Memorial
5
Stop 5
Guided Walking Tour of Thomas Jefferson Memorial
6
Stop 6
Guided Walking Tour of FDR Memorial
7
Stop 7
SEASONAL (Apr 1 - Sep 30); in the warmer months, guests enjoy a boat cruise on the Potomac River and can purchase lunch and explore Georgetown.
8
Stop 8
SEASONAL (Oct 1 - Mar 31); The Pentagon City; lunch break & free time.
9
Stop 9
Guided Walking Tour of MLK Memorial
10
Stop 10
Guided Walking Tour of Vietnam Veterans Memorial
11
Stop 11
Guided Walking Tour of Korean War Veterans Memorial
12
Stop 12
See the iconic memorial up close!
What's not included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Lunch
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
2,172 reviews
5★
1795
4★
244
3★
73
2★
23
1★
37
Tripadvisor
4.8
1,157 reviews
5★
1016
4★
79
3★
27
2★
10
1★
25
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Small carry-on bags are allowed, however it is recommended that you travel lightly. Due to security concerns, the tour operator reserves the right to search any bags or purses you bring on board. Many of the attractions in Washington DC are equipped with metal detectors at the entrances. Traveling without bags or purses is recommended
Due to time restrictions, you cannot go inside any of the monuments, however you can spend about 15-20 minutes at each stop to enjoy up-close views
No food allowed on buses (snacks are fine!)
The boat cruise is seasonal from Apr 1 to Sep 30
Convertible buses switch from open-tops to glass-tops between October and March due to colder temperatures
If you're driving, there is street parking and garages available near the meeting location, including directly under the Navy Memorial meeting location.
We will meet guests in the front of the Navy Memorial, a large fountain plaza, by the tall navy flags - on Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 7th & 9th St NW. Please note: rideshares tend to bring people to the opposite side of the block.
Meeting point
Look for the tour greeter near the tall, white flagpoles on the Pennsylvania Avenue side of the U.S. Navy Memorial Plaza at 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW (between 7th & 9th Streets), Washington, DC 20004
Important notes
Departure Location: Tours Start/Ends at the U.S. Navy Memorial at 701 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004. We meet guests in the front of the Memorial, a large fountain plaza, by the tall navy flags - on Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 7th & 9th St NW. Please note: rideshares tend to bring people to the opposite side of the block.
Parking/Metro: We do not have dedicated parking for this tour. There is street parking and parking garages (including directly under the Navy Memorial meeting location) located in the area. Tours also meet directly outside the Metro station "Navy Memorial - National Archives" on the yellow and green lines.
• Tour departs promptly at 10 am, so please arrive 15 - 20 minutes prior to the departure time for a timely check-in.
• Tour duration: 6 hours
• Climate-controlled buses – closed-top bus or upgrade to convertible glass-top / open-top bus.
• The sitting is assigned on a first-come, first-served basis.
• A moderate amount of walking is involved and comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
• Not wheelchair accessible.
• Upgrade to glass-top bus available
• Convertible buses switch from open-tops to glass-tops between October and March due to colder temperatures
• Tour buses do not have storage for accommodating carry-on bags or baby strollers. Please only bring purses, briefcases, or backpacks for your tour.
• Minimum numbers apply. There is a possibility of cancellation after confirmation if there are not enough passengers to meet the requirements. In the event of this occurring, you will be offered an alternative or full refund.
• The boat cruise is seasonal from Apr 1 to Sep 30.
• In off-peak season (Oct 1 – Mar 31), instead of boat cruise and Georgetown stop, we'll have lunch at the Pentagon City.
About Washington, D.C.
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.
Top Attractions
National Mall
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.
Historical/Park
Half day to full day
Free
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
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.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
United States Capitol
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.
Historical/Government
1-2 hours
Free
International Spy Museum
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.
Museum
2-3 hours
$24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (7-12)
Georgetown
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.
Historical/Shopping/Dining
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Half-Smoke
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.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Crab Cakes
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.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with seafood allergies
Eggs Benedict
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.
Breakfast/Brunch
Contains eggs, dairy, and meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Sweet Potato Fries
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.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly (ensure no butter or animal products are used in preparation)
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking in Great Falls Park
Rock climbing and rappelling in Theodore Roosevelt Island
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Potomac River
Picnicking in the National Mall
Strolling along the Georgetown Waterfront
Visiting the United States Botanic Garden
Exploring the Smithsonian Museums
Attending a performance at the Kennedy Center
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall features beautiful foliage.
10-25°C
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Chinese, Amharic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
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.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always confirm the fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious when approaching strangers or signing petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport • 5 km from city center
- Washington Dulles International Airport • 42 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro system is efficient and reliable, with six color-coded lines serving major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Adams Morgan
U Street Corridor
Capitol Hill
The Wharf
Day trips
Mount Vernon
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
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
10 km (6 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
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
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
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.
Festivals
National Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April
Independence Day Celebration • July 4
Washington, D.C. Jazz Festival • Late June
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions, such as the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Use public transportation, walking, or biking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
- Purchase a multi-day pass for public transportation, such as the Metro or bus, to save money and time
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, such as spring (cherry blossom season) and summer (Independence Day)
- Research and compare prices for activities and attractions, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and money
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
