THE 5 BEST Washington DC Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours

Hop-on hop-off tours in washington dc.

  • Sightseeing Tours
  • Historical & Heritage Tours
  • Night Tours
  • Hop-On Hop-Off Tours
  • Up to 1 hour
  • 1 to 4 hours
  • 4 hours to 1 day
  • 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
  • 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.

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

3. Washington, DC: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour

bus tours for washington dc

4. Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Guide

bus tours for washington dc

5. Washington DC Morning or Night-Time Express Sightseeing Monuments Tour

bus tours for washington dc

6. Best LED Guided Night Tour - Downtown DC Hotel Pick up included

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

bus tours for washington dc

Historic Annapolis Food Tour

bus tours for washington dc

Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore

bus tours for washington dc

Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park

bus tours for washington dc

Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point

bus tours for washington dc

Luxury Tours of Mount Vernon

bus tours for washington dc

Private History of Old Town Alexandria Walking Tour

bus tours for washington dc

Baltimore Harbor Tour

bus tours for washington dc

Amazing Alexandria Scavenger Hunt

bus tours for washington dc

Amazing Annapolis Scavenger Hunt

bus tours for washington dc

Chesapeake Region Wine Tour

bus tours for washington dc

Annapolis Scavenger Hunt: Red Bricks & Blue Views

bus tours for washington dc

Fun City Scavenger Hunt in Baltimore by Crazy Dash

bus tours for washington dc

Axe-Throwing

bus tours for washington dc

Historic Battlefields Self-Guided Audio Driving Tour Bundle

bus tours for washington dc

Baltimore Harbor Moonlight Sail on the Summer Wind

bus tours for washington dc

Baltimore Ghost Hunt: Baltimore's Best Haunts

bus tours for washington dc

Escape Room Live Alexandria: 60-Minute Adventures

bus tours for washington dc

E-bike Rental Along the Potomac River

bus tours for washington dc

Alexandria Scavenger Hunt: Old Town Made New

bus tours for washington dc

Virtual Experience: Guided Tour of George Washington's Mount Vernon & Alexandria

bus tours for washington dc

Discover and Enjoy Local Arlington's Fast Food Casual Scene

bus tours for washington dc

Unique Scavenger Hunt in Alexandria by Zombie Scavengers

bus tours for washington dc

Alexandria Bar Hunt: Ye Olde Pub Crawl through Old Town

bus tours for washington dc

Nutty National Harbor Scavenger Hunt

What travelers are saying.

seana10112019

  • Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops
  • Hop-On Hop-Off 21 Stop Trolley Tour + Arlington Cemetery
  • Washington, DC: Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour
  • Arlington National Cemetery Hop-On Hop-Off Tour with Guide
  • Washington DC Morning or Night-Time Express Sightseeing Monuments Tour
  • Elevated Tours
  • WeVenture Washington DC Tours
  • Washington DC Experiences
  • DC Limo and Tours
  • Old Town Trolley Tours Washington DC
  • Big Bus Tours
  • RSN Tour Bus

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Spotlight on Washington, D.C.

About this tour.

Walk the path forged by leaders of the free world in America’s spirited capital city. View monuments that commemorate the heroes who have shaped America’s past, including the World War II Monument, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Memorial. Wander Mt. Vernon’s beautiful plantation grounds and tour the beloved home of George Washington. Learn about the Civil War and President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination during a National Park Ranger led talk at Ford’s Theatre. Uncover Smithsonian treasures as you explore some of its world-renowned museum collections. The epic story of American democracy comes to life in Washington, D.C.

Your Tour Includes

  • 1 Handpicked Accommodations

Included Highlights

  • U.S. Capitol Building Tour
  • World War II Memorial
  • Washington National Cathedral
  • Ford's Theatre

Your Tour at a Glance

5 Breakfasts

2 - Moderate

Travel Style

Activity Level

  • Level This Tour

For specific details about this tour's activity level and other info to know before you book your trip, click here.

Travel Styles

Highlights and inclusions.

Must-See Inclusions:

Spend 5 memorable nights in the heart of Washington, D.C.

Tour the iconic and storied U.S. Capitol building.

Cultural Experiences:

Behold the impressive Washington National Cathedral.

Peek into the life of America’s first president at Mount Vernon.

Stop at Ford’s Theatre where President Lincoln was assassinated.

Culinary Inclusions:

Experience international cuisine in local restaurants throughout the city.

  • Arlington National Cemetery
  • Mount Vernon
  • Old Town Alexandria
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • White House Visitor Center
  • Smithsonian Institution

Book with Confidence

* With Insurance Purchased

  • *No Hassle Refunds
  • Traveling Well Safety
  • No booking fee, *no change fees
  • Top Rated Travel Protection

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Getting Prepared

Know before you go, travel tips, enhance your tour.

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

  • Tour Extensions

Hotel-Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

Pre Night: Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle From $100 per night

...

Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle

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Post Night: Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle From $100 per night

Trip Reviews

Live, Unedited, & Independent Traveler Reviews

bus tours for washington dc

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4 stars

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Big bus tours washington, dc, explore the nation's capital on big bus tours, the official tour of the national mall..

The open top bus visits the City's most iconic landmarks and allows unlimited access to hop-on and -off for 1 or 2 days. Classic Panoramic: Experience all of the sites from a safe vantage point above the trees. Red Loop: The National Mall visiting the City's iconic landmarks. Blue Loop: Cross the Potomac to visit Arlington Cemetery. Yellow Loop: Visit the White House Gift Shop and the National Geographic Museum. Ticket inclusions available depending on ticket: Access to all of the Loops. Walking Tour. Live English-speaking Tour Guides (Night Tour Only) or recorded commentary in the following languages: English,Spanish, German, Italian, French, Mandarin, Japanese, and Brazilian Portuguese. Deluxe (2-Day) Ticket Inclusions: Access to all of the Loops. Free Walking Tour Free Night Tour . Night Tour: Experience the Capitol's standout landmarks beautifully illuminated after dusk. Accompanied by your knowledgeable guide, you will be able to hop off the bus to discover more about Washington's iconic landmarks. Your guide will explain the history of these national monuments and reveal the perfect position to capture the most impressive photos.

  • Foreign Language Guides
  • Guided tours available
  • Private Tour
  • Open to public
  • ADA compliant

Additional Information

Attraction rates, length of tour, service type.

FIT/Voucher Program, Group Charter, Handicapped Accessible, Handicap Accessibility, Incentive Programs, Multilingual Guides, Multilingual Tours, Regular Scheduled Tours, Step On, Student Tours

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The Best Washington, D.C., Bus Tours

Here's everything you need to know about D.C. bus tours.

Best Washington, D.C., Bus Tours

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See the city's top monuments from the comfort of a bus.

Note: Some tour providers on this list may have limited or ceased operations due to COVID-19. Check with your tour operator about availability before you book.

With a bustling food and arts scene and a rich history that spans both the city and its surrounding neighborhoods, Washington, D.C. , boasts plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained throughout their stay. With so much to do and see, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. A bus tour of the nation's capital may be just the ticket to get your bearings. These companies, identified by U.S. News as the top operators using both traveler sentiment and expert input, offer a variety of tour options. No matter which outfitter you choose, you'll visit the famous government buildings, monuments, war memorials, museums and other sights for which the city is known.

Old Town Trolley Tours

Old Town Trolley offers a 90-minute tour to view the city's top sights, such as the White House , the Capitol , the Lincoln Memorial , the Jefferson Memorial and the Smithsonian museums, among others. There is one 30-minute stop at the Lincoln Memorial so travelers can explore on their own. The tour also includes live narration by a guide, which is generally deemed interesting and informative by reviewers.

Tours typically run daily except for major holidays and events (such as the Marine Corps Marathon). Buses depart hourly between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. daily from the downtown Washington Welcome Center. Old Town Trolley offers two ticket tiers. The silver pass (which costs around $50 per person) grants visitors one tour on the trolley. For around $65, the gold pass supplements the silver pass service with an additional tour loop through Virginia's Arlington National Cemetery . Discounted tickets for children are available for all tiers.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 .]

Old Town Trolley Tours – Monuments by Moonlight Tour

In addition to its daytime tours, Old Town Trolley Tours offers visitors the option of exploring the nation's capital at night. As you travel through the city streets, you'll view memorials and monuments aglow while hearing stories of Washington's past. There are several stops along the 2 1/2-hour tour for travelers to stretch their legs, snap photos and see the monuments up close. Tour-takers rave about this excursion, saying they had a great time and appreciate the friendly guide's commentary. Tours depart nightly year-round at 7:30 p.m. from the Washington Welcome Center in downtown. Prices start at $45 for adults and $33 for children 4 to 12; you may be able to get discounted tickets by buying them online.

[ View & Book Tickets .]

USA Guided Tours – Best of DC VIP Tour

Tour-takers tend to appreciate trips with USA Guided Tours for their knowledgeable guides and the frequent stops for photos at D.C.'s must-see sights. The company's Best of DC VIP Tour includes guided stops at multiple D.C. attractions, including the White House exterior and the National World War II Memorial . Tours last approximately 8 1/2 hours and run daily. Tickets cost around $125 per person and include lunch and entry to the International Spy Museum From April through mid-October, this tour also features a boat ride on the Potomac. The shorter (5 1/2-hour) DC Deluxe Tour also features a tour of the Capitol and a bus tour around the National Mall, but excludes lunch. Tickets start at $89 for adults and $69 for children.

[View & Book Tickets: Option 1 | Option 2 | Option 3 .]

USA Guided Tours – DC at Dusk

USA Guided tours also runs a popular nighttime tour of the city. Along the three-hour journey, guides provide insight about the history of the area and take you off the bus at each stop to see the sights. Along the way, you'll see the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, among other sights. Seeing the city at night is an exceptional treat, according to reviewers. They add that the guides are informative and make the experience fun. Tickets start at $58 for adults and $44 for children. Rides depart nightly at 7:30 p.m. from the U.S. Navy Memorial.

Additional tour options:

  • Big Bus Tours : Big Bus Washington DC Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. View & Book Tickets »
  • Empire Vacations Day Tours - New York : Washington DC Day Trip from New York. View & Book Tickets »

You may also be interested in:

  • The Best Washington, D.C., Tours
  • The Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.
  • The Best Washington, D.C. Hotels
  • The Best Historical Cities to Visit in the USA

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

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Signature Tours of DC

Signature Tours, your guide to DC

bus tours for washington dc

Signature Tours Are The Best Guided Tours in Washington DC

bus tours for washington dc

AWARD-WINNING GUIDED TOURS OF WASHINGTON DC

bus tours for 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.

bus tours for washington dc

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.

bus tours for washington dc

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.

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington 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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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

bus tours for washington dc

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 .

bus tours for washington dc

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Hop On Hop Off Washington DC - Bus Tours

Pull off a monumental vacation with a hop-on hop-off Washington DC tour! With your tickets, you make the rules! Hop off our open-air, double-decker busses and check out the attractions that pique your special interest. Then, hop back on and veto the ones you don’t. With Washington DC hop-on hop-off, sightseeing vacation has never been so streamlined! Take the Big Bus to cover all major attractions comfortably or invest in the Washington DC Sightseeing Flex Pass to save massive on your choice of attractions. Take your pick!

Washington DC Sightseeing Bus Tours

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Big Bus Washington DC: Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour

Top Customer Reviews

Grace jorgensen, regan wesley.

lot of buses , minimal waiting time at the stops.

Alex Chelmis

easy to buy but in our days this should not be a question

About Paris

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 for washington dc

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Which Washington DC Bus Tours Are Best?

Big bus hop on hop off and more.

bus tours for washington dc

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).

Hop on Hop off Bus Washington DC

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.

Old Town Trolly DC Route Map

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

bus tours for washington dc

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).  

Washington DC Bus Tours

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 .

DC Bus Tour

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!

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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

DC Bus Tour

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!)

Washington DC Travel Tips and Hacks

And much, much more

About the author.

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Canden Arciniega

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

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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 .

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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.”

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1-Day Old Town Trolley Tour

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  • 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

Left picture: Washington DC Trolley driving by the Museum of the American Indian; right picture: Arlington National Cemetery grounds with Arlington House in the background

  • 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

monuments by moonlight lincoln memorial

  • 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

picture of arlington national cemetery vehicle driving past arlington house and tombstones in foreground

  • 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

The best way - Washington DC

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
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  • And much more!

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OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS

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Old Town Trolley Tours

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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 Tours vehicle driving past Arlington House in background and grave sites and trees in foreground

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

Lincoln Memorial at dusk in Washington DC

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.

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.

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1-day washington dc. cherry blossom tour tour code : gol-wdc-170.

1-Day Washington DC. Cherry Blossom Tour

Departure City : Washington DC

Available Days : Tue, Thu, Sat & Sun

Highlights : Enjoy amazing blossom views of thousands of cherry trees.

1-Day Washington D.C City Sightseeing Bus Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-136

1-Day Washington D.C City Sightseeing Bus Tour

Available Days : Mon & Fri

Highlights : Explore the core of power in the United States: enter the Capitol, and look outside the White House; Remember the history of predecessors: Jefferson Memorial Hall, Lincoln Memorial Hall, Korean War Memorial Plaza, Vietnam War Memorial Wall; Walk into the Smithsonian National Museum and feel the rich historical atmosphere.

1-Day Washington DC to Luray Caverns and Skyline Drive Shenandoah National Park Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-139

1-Day Washington DC to Luray Caverns and Skyline Drive Shenandoah National Park Tour

Departure City : Rockville MD, Washington DC

Available Days : Wed & Sat

Highlights : Welcome to Luray, Virginia!  Experience the cold air rushing out of a limestone sinkhole atop a big hill west of Luray in the Luray Caverns.   Take a look at the beautiful scenic views of Skyline Drive! Explore the amazing Shenandoah National Park and all that it has to offer.  Experience an unforgettable one-day tour filled with unlimited memories. 

1-Day Washington DC to George Washington's Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-108

1-Day Washington DC to George Washington's Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria Tour

Available Days : Tuesday

Highlights : Visit and explore the historical significance of George Washington's Mount Vernon.   Discover the house of former President Washington. Explore the historic neighborhood of Old Town Alexandria. Visit the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial and get a closer look at the headquarters of the US Department of Defense, the Pentagon.

  • Attraction tickets: George Washington's Mount Vernon.

1-Day Washington DC to Whitetail Mountain Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-168

1-Day Washington DC to Whitetail Mountain Tour

Departure City : Falls Church VA, Rockville MD, Washington DC

Available Days : Tue & Sat

Highlights : Take an amazing trip to Whitetail Mountain Resort!  Travel in style and in absolute comfort with an experienced professional tour guide. Experience 6-hours of skiing fun! Experience an unforgettable one-day tour filled with unlimited memories. 

  • Minimum of two people to be operated.

1-Day Washington DC to Gettysburg Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-169

1-Day Washington DC to Gettysburg Tour

Available Days : Thu & Sun

Highlights : Take a trip to the U.S. state of Pennsylvania! Explore Gettysburg’s National Military Park. Visit the Gettysburg Downtown. Learn all about the history behind Gettysburg and the significant Battle. 

  • Admission ticket: the 22-minute film “A New Birth of Freedom”, Cyclorama, Gettysburg Museum of the American Civil War and Battlefield Bus Tour.

2-Day Washington DC to Corning, Niagara Falls US Side In Depth Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-171

2-Day Washington DC to Corning, Niagara Falls US Side In Depth Tour

Highlights : Admire the majestic shock from Niagara Falls and the immense boundlessness from Lake Ontario. Onboard the famous "Maid of the Mist" boat, experience the feeling of being wet from the falls. Explore the "mysterious" Cave of the Winds and get a closer view of Niagara Falls. Enjoy the stunning colorful night scenes of Niagara Falls. Visit Corning Glass Center and watch the exquisite and exquisite glass craftsmanship.

2-Day Washington DC to Philadelphia, New York, One World Trade Center Observatory and Little island Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-167

2-Day Washington DC to Philadelphia, New York, One World Trade Center Observatory and Little island Tour

Available Days : Saturday

Highlights : Take a ride to the top of the One World Trade Center Observatory! Overlook amazing panoramic views of New York from above and admire the beautiful skyline of New York. Take the Liberty cruise and enjoy the statue of Liberty from the water perspective!  Visit the Independence National Historical Park and Liberty Bell. Explore the famous Wall Street and Charging Bull. 

3-Day Washington DC to Natural Bridge, New River Gorge National Park, Luray Caverns and Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-143

3-Day Washington DC to Natural Bridge, New River Gorge National Park, Luray Caverns and Great Smoky Mountains National Park Tour

Available Days : Special Date

Highlights : Explore the must-visit place in Virginia, a 4 billion-year-old natural cave created by nature, Luray Caverns. Visit Shenandoah National Park and experience the stunning beauty of the skyline. Reach the peak of Great Smoky Mountains national park, enjoy the stunning view of Clingmans Dome. Enjoy and taste delicious from Dolly Parton's Stampede performance.

  • Breakfast is included.
  • Entrance fee to Shenandoah National Park, New River. Gorge National Park and Great Smoky National Park.  

3-Day Washington DC to Corning, Philadelphia and Niagara Falls Tour Tour code : GOL-WDC-206

3-Day  Washington DC to Corning, Philadelphia and Niagara Falls Tour

Available Days : Sat & Daily

Highlights : Travel with a thoroughly disinfected sightseeing coach and our professional well-trained tour escort. Visit the nation’s capital at Washington, D.C., and check out its most iconic sites including the White House, Lincoln Memorial and so much more. Visit the Corning Glass Center and watch the exquisite glass craftsmanship. Take an in-depth visit to Niagara Falls!  Feel the force and power of nature while enjoying spectacular views!

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bus tours for washington dc

23 Things To Do In Washington DC With Kids [+ 2 Day Itinerary]

T here are so many things to do in Washington DC with kids. Plus, there is so much history to see and share! We did Washington DC back when the kids were 7, 5, 5, and 3 and went again when they were 14, 11, 11, and 9.

Both times we did similar things, but with the kids being older, it was fun to dive deeper into the history and meaning behind what we were seeing. We also tied this trip into our East Coast road trip , where we also visited New York City , Boston , Philadelphia , Lincoln NH , and a few more places.

Transportation

Both times we went into Washington, DC, we took public transportation to get into the heart of the city. Once from a couple of hours away and the other time from the Cherry Hill RV park. Both times it worked out well and is definitely what we recommend when visiting DC.

The public transit in DC is straightforward to use. Getting around with your family is accessible between the Metrorail and Metrobus services. For those that prefer to explore via two wheels, there are 2 main options both of which provide daily passes up to a year old membership.

Time Of Day To Visit

We are not early risers, so we just go when we get up and get moving. Typically sometime after 11 am. This has never been a problem for us. But it can be if you want to hit a lot of museums since they can close around 4 or 5. If that is what you want to do, be sure to check their schedules.

Also, note there are few places to eat right within where all the monuments are. So either plan to bring your own food or stop somewhere around the White House before heading further into the monuments.

The other option is the food trucks that are by the museums. There is typically a great assortment of different types and styles of foods offered at the food trucks. This great selection of food trucks can be a fantastic way to experience foods from other cultures.

However, it can be challenging for the food trucks to know the hours and when they will be there. Be prepared to wait in line for some of the more popular trucks.

In DC you will also find a great selection of food tours. These tours can be a great way to taste the popular local delicacies and experience the culture of a neighborhood.

Below I am going to share the route we took to explore the monuments around DC with our kids. We had breakfast before we got there and went knowing we would be eating lunch soon.

  • White House Visitor Center

The visitor center is not by the front of the White House. Instead, it is a few blocks away. Even if it is a bit out of your way, it is worth stopping at. You can follow the history of the Presidents, see images from the Presidents living in the White House, the First Ladies, and more. See interactive exhibits filled with the history of the founding fathers. This free museum offers an insight into the daily lives of our past presidents, with almost 100 artifacts on display.

You have to walk through a metal detector before entering, so be aware of that.

Black Lives Matter Plaza

This racial equality landmark in downtown DC is a two-block section of the street featuring giant lettering. From the road, it is hard to see much. But it is cool to see the 50-foot lettering and compare them to images we have seen of the street. This is one of the newest landmarks in the capital.

White House

You must go to the White House when visiting Washington, DC. Getting into it is another story – especially nowadays, but we know friends who have done it. We made a last-minute effort to get in, but it was a no-go. To tour the White House, some planning is needed. Requests for visiting need to be submitted to a member of Congress at least three weeks before your planned trip. The good news is that the tour is free of charge. It just requires planning. If you manage to book a tour, note that all persons over the age of 18 are required to present a valid ID upon entry. Flash photography is not allowed during the tour. Secret Service members are stationed in each room if you have any questions.

No matter if you couldn’t book a tour, it is still fun to see it from the outside and take a picture in front of it. Download the White House Experience App to help you plan your visit or to tour the White House Virtually.

  • Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is the world’s tallest freestanding stone structure. Seeing this piece of history from the inside requires booking a ticket ahead of time. We aren’t good at that. . . so we always check the monument from the outside. T

he kids had fun trying to “hold” the monument in our hands. If you are lucky enough to get tickets, be sure to check out the view from the amazing observation deck. You can order tickets up to 30 days in advance or attempt to get same-day reservations to see this iconic obelisk. Note that the same-day tickets are harder to come by but are an excellent option for those on a last-minute trip.

GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar

The GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar was a yummy place to get Grilled Cheese after visiting the Washington Monument. It was busy, so you should order ahead or be ready to wait. We had to stand around for a while, waiting for a table to open up. From a wide assortment of grilled cheeses, mac and cheese, and quesadillas, every cheese lover in your family will be in heaven.

  • World War II Memorial

Located by the Smithsonian and the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, this solemn memorial is dedicated to all service members that gave their lives during World War II. The memorial contains 56 granite pillars. One pillar for each state or territory whose citizens bravely sacrificed their lives for the freedom of others. We always look for our home state of Wisconsin to get a picture next to when visiting this memorial.

  • Lincoln Memorial

It is a beautiful walk from the World War II Memorial up to the Lincoln Memorial. It is located on the western edge of the National Mall. Once in the Memorial, we read the Gettysburg address etched into the wall and grabbed a picture by Lincoln. The Gettysburg Address was an essential part of Civil War history. Get a photo looking out from the Memorial onto the reflecting pool. The Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours daily, 365 days a year, making it super easy to fit into any of your travel plans. Ancient Greek inspired the Lincoln Memorial’s design Temples. The memorial has been home to many noteworthy moments in America’s history, including Martin Luther King Jr’s I Have a Dream Speech.

  • Martin Luther King Jr Memorial

The Martin Luther King Jr Memorial is located by the lake next to the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial or can be reached with a 15-minute walk from the Smithsonian Metro stop. This monument has many places to stop to read timeless quotes from his I Have a Dream speech carved into its walls and to talk about the history of this civil rights icon. National Park Service Rangers are on site most of the time to answer any questions you have.

  • Franklin D Roosevelt Memorial

We didn’t visit here the last time we came, and I am so glad we did this time. We stopped in the gift shop/visitor center by the monument, grabbed the Who Is Franklin D Roosevelt book, and sat on a bench to read it to the kids.

He had so many great quotes, and seeing them up on the walls was awesome. This memorial guides you back in time to FDRs four presidential terms, where he lead our country through the difficult times of the Great Depression and World War II.

  • George Mason Memorial

We weren’t trying to go here but made a stop while we were taking a walk around the lake to the Jefferson Memorial. This memorial is dedicated to one of the often overlooked founding fathers. Though most of history has forgotten him, George Mason played a vital role in our nation’s founding. This memorial isn’t on the Tidal Basin Path, so it can be easy to miss.

  • Jefferson Memorial

The Jefferson Memorial is located on the Tidal Basin, boarded by beautiful cherry blossom trees. At night the neoclassical architecture can be seen shining over the water. This open-air building is free to enter. You will find quotes from the Declaration of Independence etched on the walls inside. We also stopped at the gift shop here and got a picture with Jefferson facing out over the water.

There is so much history in Washington, DC. It is well worth taking your kids no matter what age they are! It starts a lot of great conversations about our nation’s history.

That was a wrap on our day walking the monuments of DC. By this time, and after all that walking, everyone was hungry, so we headed out.

Day 2 was all about the museums. One of the best things about the museums in Washington, DC is most offer free admission. We checked out the following museums:

  • National Museum of American History

This was a fascinating museum with a visual history of America. Not just text box things but also how people lived, what they wore, etc. The exhibits allowed us to step back in time and experience history. It was not what I expected, but it was very informative, and I am glad we brought the kids here to see it. With its rotating featured exhibits, there is always something new to see and learn about. The best part is that the museum is free of charge, and no tickets are required.

  • National Gallery Of Art

Located near the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the National Gallery of Art features more than 150,000 pieces of art. The museum offers free guided tours, or you can explore on your own with a self-guided tour via the APP. For any homeschooler or roadschooler, be sure to check out the educational resources available online https://www.nga.gov/learn/teachers.html

  • National Archives Museum

We went here to see the Declaration of Independence. It was cool to see it in person. When in DC, I recommend checking it out. We didn’t have to wait long to see it, and the kids really enjoyed it since we had been talking so much about it. It is a unique experience to see the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights up close. Located between Constitution Ave and Pennsylvania Ave, admission is always free. The museum is open to the public every day except for Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.

That is how we spent our two days in DC. There are also a variety of other things you can do in DC with kids.

Here is a high level breakdown and a map of what we did with our 2 days in Washington DC:

Day 1: Monuments

  • Lunch: GCDC Grilled Cheese Bar

Day 2: Museums

Great paid tours.

Hop-On and Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus Tour See the sites and history of DC from a double-decker bus. This easy bus tour visits the White House, Arlington National Cemetery, Lincoln Memorial, National Capitol, the National Cathedral, and more.

Mount Vernon River Cruise On this full-day tour, you will cruise up the Potomac River and visit George Washington’s estate. This tour is a great way to experience the history of colonial America while wondering about the home of George and Martha Washington. Be sure to watch the documentary on the American Revolution in the 4-D theater.

African American History Tour On this 4-hour tour, you will see some of the most iconic sites and lesser-known unique landmarks in civil rights history. From the home of Frederick Douglass to African American Civil War Memorial and Museum to Howard University take an in-depth look at the struggle for civil rights.

Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour Bike through the Tidal Basin and National Mall on this self-guided tour. This three-hour guided tour is perfect for all ages and includes bikes and helmets.

Tastes of Georgetown Food Tour Learn about the history of DC’s oldest and most iconic neighborhood while sampling delicious local foods.

Georgetown Ghost Tour Discover the dark side of this historic part of the city, including visiting the famous Exorcist stairs featured in the movie during this walking tour.

Additional Things To Do

Capital Wheel With this flexible date ticket, see gorgeous views of Washington, DC, Maryland, and Virginia from the wheel. The Capital Wheel is located just outside of downtown in the National Harbour.

United States Botanic Garden See the beauty of nature for free at this beautiful site. Stop by the Children’s Garden for great kid-friendly, hands-on educational programs. For younger kids be sure to print off the coloring book from the website before your visit.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum See the history of flight in the US, from the Wright Brother’s flyer to the Mars Rover. From the Planetarium, IMAX Theater, interactive exhibits, and even a story time for kids there is something for all ages.

If you want to escape the hustle of the city, check out Rock Creek Park . This piece of tranquility in the middle of the city offers concerts, horseback riding, hiking, and more. Visit the Civil War sites in this picturesque park to learn more about its place in history.

There is also the Capitol Building, International Spy Museum, Smithsonian National Zoo and Glen Echo park.

More Great Family Fun

Escape game washington dc.

There are 2 great Escape Game locations in the DC area. Visiting Escape Rooms is a favorite activity for our family. Up to 8 people are locked in a room, you have 1 hour to solve clues to escape.

The Escape Game Washington DC has 9 different rooms to choose from. The rooms are varying levels of difficulty. Each room is filled with unique props to help you solve the mystery of how to escape. We highly recommend this great indoor family entertainment. Book your tickets here!

Things To Know

  • Bring Cash! You can use cash at the Metro to buy set dollar amount tickets. You also need cash to purchase anything from the street vendors.
  • Metro: Do your research before you get there so you know which stop you should park by and which Metro line you want to get on. Remember you determine that by seeing where the Metro Line will END – that will tell you which train you should get on.
  • Pentagon Mall – The parking garage worked out great. We were far enough outside of the city that traffic wasn’t crazy and we were parked in a parking garage. At the time it was $18 for the day. Bring your ticket with you and pay at the mall before you leave. You then need your ticket to leave the parking structure/lot.
  • Stroller: You could bring a stroller. All the monuments have elevators. So if you are ok with dealing with that and navigating your way through crowds with your stroller and up and down the sidewalk/street you can bring one.
  • Walking: No Joke! all the monuments are FAR apart so if you plan to walk to see everything you will be walking for miles.
  • Water: Bring water bottles. There are drinking fountains at all the monuments and with all the walking you will need water.
  • If you want to go into the Washington Monument you need to get tickets ahead of time – or potentially in the morning if you are the first one there. Do your research on this one if it is something you want to do.

Washington DC Route Map

Here is the map of the route we took when our kids were 7, 5, 5, and 3. We followed a very similar route the last time we went but went through the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial this time.

Here is a great post on apps you should download for your Washington DC trip !

There is so much to do in Washington DC . If you only have 1 day you can do most of the monuments. But to see everything DC has to offer you would need to go for more than 1 day.

Where To Stay

Washington Plaza Hotel This hotel is located close to the White House and Dupont Circle. The hotel offers a wide variety of rooms and suite choices.

Courtyard by Marriott Washington Downtown/Convention Center Stay in the heart of our nation’s capital. This hotel has a restaurant, private parking, free bikes, and a beautiful garden on site.

Embassy Suites by Hilton Georgetown This hotel is located near Dupont Circle and just minutes away from the Dupont Metro Station and Foggy Bottom Metro Station. The hotel offers a free complimentary hot breakfast each morning and a small selection of appetizers every evening.

Vacation Rentals

Private Apartment in a Historic Home Located in the center of Northwest DC, this home is located within walking distance of the Metro and monuments and museums. This private apartment sleeps 4.

Historic Victorian Townhome This beautiful three-bedroom townhome is located in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. Walking distance to restaurants, bars, and the National Mall.

We stayed at Cherry Hill RV Park . This is the perfect RV park to stay at for exploring Washington DC. You can even take a bus to the metro station (we opted to just drive and park at the station so we didn’t have to manage as many schedules) and that was super easy too!

The park itself is amazing and we were there around Halloween so it was even more amazing!! If you have the time plan to spend a day just in the RV park too.

Note: They have a HUGE laundry room at the RV park.

There really are a lot of great things to do with kids in Washington DC and we are excited to come back again in the future to continue exploring more! Looking to extend your East Coast Trip? Consider visiting New York City,   Boston, or New Hampshire !

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The post 23 Things To Do In Washington DC With Kids [+ 2 Day Itinerary] appeared first on Crazy Family Adventure .

Washington DC is filled with amazing family friendly activities. Find out the best 23 things to in Washington DC with kids.

How to plan a walking tour of the best museums in Washington, DC

In a city full of world-class museums and galleries, it can be hard to know where to start. Here are six of the best locations to get a cultural flavour of the US capital.

Washington, DC holds a special place among the American cities — not just for its importance as the nation’s capital, but for its breadth of rich cultural experiences, too. Visitors will find some of the world’s most esteemed museums, libraries, galleries and institutions here, covering everything from contemporary art and natural history to space travel and go-go music.

Downtown DC and its attractions are easy to explore on foot, although bikes can also be hired through rental schemes across the city. The route below, which includes some of the city’s big-hitting museums and unexpected treasures, is around 11 miles and takes just over four hours on foot, without stopping. Travellers should consider breaking it up into stages, allowing plenty of time to appreciate the art, artefacts and experiences on display, as well as the timeless city views along cherry tree-lined avenues and the National Mall.

1. Phillips Collection

Start at this striking, red-brick museum in the leafy Dupont Circle neighbourhood. Founded in 1921 by art collector Duncan Phillips and his wife Marjorie, the Phillips Collection was the first museum of modern art in the US and continues to change and expand with new exhibits. The intimate collection is a rollcall of some of the most celebrated names in American and European art, including Monet, Picasso, Van Gogh, Matisse and Whistler. Be sure to admire the masterly strokes of Renoir’s Luncheon of the Boating Party , and the Rothko Room, home to four distinctive abstract oeuvres. A couple blocks away is Planet Word , an immersive language experience and the first voice-activated museum. Free to visit, the museum engages, educates and showcases the immense power of language with various interactive exhibits, including a 22-foot-tall wall of commonly used words.  

2. National Museum of Women in the Arts

Half an hour’s walk along Connecticut Avenue and H Street NW leads to the National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA), housed in a glorious 1908 Masonic temple that’s fresh from a 2023 renovation. Over 1,000 female artists have work on display here, including Frida Kahlo and Georgia O’Keeffe, as well as lesser-known names from the Renaissance through to the present. This is the only major museum in the world to have an all-female collection — a responsibility the NMWA takes seriously; the gallery’s advocacy and education programmes aim to redress the gender imbalance in the art world.

3. National Mall  

Make the short walk south — past the White House and President’s Park — and the National Mall unfurls like a vast, green carpet, bookended by the Lincoln Memorial and the United States Capitol, with the towering Washington Monument at the heart of it. Located around this iconic, two-mile grass promenade are some of the country’s most hallowed landmarks: the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the Smithsonian Castle and the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world, where visitors can admire the ornate surrounds of the Main Reading Room. At a leisurely pace, a full lap of the Mall can easily take over two hours, so allow time to take it all in. Come back at dusk to watch the sunset spilling over the Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool.

4. Smithsonian museums  

Many of the Smithsonian Institution’s 21 museums stand proudly on the National Mall. The world’s largest natural history collection is on display at the National Museum of Natural History , charting the earth’s story with exhibitions and activities, while the National Air and Space Museum offers a deep dive into the history of air and space travel, with exhibits including Neil Armstrong’s Apollo 11 spacesuit and a model of the Star Trek Starship Enterprise . Explore the nation’s political and cultural identity, from the colonial era to the modern day,   at the National Museum of American History , where highlights include George Washington’s military uniform and Judy Garland’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz .

5. Go-Go Museum & Café

Hire a bike to cross the Anacostia River and seek out one of the city’s newest museums. As its name suggests, the Go-Go Museum and Café celebrates go-go music, the lively style of funk known for its distinctive snare beat and call-and-response vocals. Declared the official music of DC in 2020, go-go has its roots in the city’s African American community, with local guitarist Chuck Brown (1936-2012) dubbed the ‘Godfather of Go-Go’. Music lovers can learn more about the genre and its place in the American soundtrack through exhibitions, outreach programmes and live music performances. The museum is slated to open in early spring 2024.

6. Rubell Museum

Back across the river, on 1st Street SW, the Rubell Museum is a vivid romp through contemporary art. This is one of the largest private collections of modern works in North America, amassed over a period of nearly 60 years by Don and Mera Rubell and their son, Jason. Their support of artists such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, Jeff Koons and Keith Haring at the beginning of their careers allowed them to obtain some of their earliest works. See them showcased alongside underrepresented contemporary artists through a collection of paintings, sculptures, videos and photography.

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  • MODERN HISTORY

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WTOP News

‘Frozen in time.’ Kamala Harris tours bloodstained building where 2018 Parkland massacre happened

The Associated Press

March 23, 2024, 8:47 PM

PARKLAND, Fla. (AP) — Vice President Kamala Harris toured on Saturday the bloodstained classroom building where the 2018 Parkland high school massacre happened, then announced a program to assist states that have laws allowing police to temporarily seize guns from people judges have found to be dangerous.

Harris saw bullet-pocked walls and floors still covered in dried blood and broken glass left behind from the Feb. 14, 2018, attack at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School that killed 14 students and three staff members and wounded 17.

The halls and classrooms inside the three-story structure remain strewn with shoes left behind by fleeing students and wilted Valentine’s Day flowers and balloons. Textbooks, laptop computers, snacks and papers remain on desks. She was told about each victim who died.

“Frozen in time,” Harris said repeatedly about what she saw. She was accompanied on the tour by victims’ family members, some of them pushing for more spending on school safety and others for stronger gun laws.

Harris, who leads the new White House Office of Gun Violence Prevention, said there are lessons to be learned from Parkland, both for stopping school shootings before they happen and mitigating them with measures such as making sure classroom doors don’t lock from the outside as they did at Stoneman Douglas. She pointed out that shootings are a leading cause of death for children and teenagers.

“We must be willing to have the courage to say that on every level, whether you talk about changing laws or changing practices and protocols, that we must do better,” Harris said.

At Stoneman Douglas, former student Nikolas Cruz, then 19, fired about 140 shots from his AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle during his six-minute attack, moving methodically from the first floor, through the second and onto the third.

He pleaded guilty in 2021 . He was sentenced to life in prison in 2022 after his jury couldn’t unanimously agree he deserved a death sentence, angering the victims’ families .

The building was preserved so his jury could tour it. It has loomed over the 3,600-student school from behind a temporary fence since the school reopened two weeks after the shooting. It is scheduled to be demolished this summer. No replacement plan has been announced.

Following Harris’ tour, she announced a $750 million grant program to provide technical assistance and training to Florida and the other 20 states that have similar “red flag laws.”

Florida’s law allows police officers, with a judge’s permission, to temporarily seize guns belonging to anyone shown to be a danger to others or themselves. The statute has been used more than 12,000 times since it was enacted six years ago in response to the Parkland shooting.

Harris also called on both Congress and states without red flag laws to adopt them. The Biden administration has called for a national red flag law.

Cruz had a long history of troubling and bizarre behavior before the shooting, including animal torture. In the weeks before the shooting, he had been reported to local law enforcement and the FBI by people fearing he was planning a mass shooting, but no action was taken. He legally purchased 10 guns in the 17 months between his 18th birthday and the massacre.

“Red flag laws are simply designed to give communities a vehicle through which they can share … information about the concern of potential danger or the crying out for help,” Harris said.

Sen. Rick Scott, a Republican who signed Florida’s red flag law as governor, issued a statement Saturday calling the Biden administration’s proposed national red flag law “radical,” saying it would be modeled on California’s statute and strip gun owners of their rights. California’s law is broader than Florida’s as it allows family members, employers and others to initiate the process, but the removal also has to be approved by a judge.

California’s law “abandons due process to more quickly and easily take constitutional rights away from law-abiding Americans. That is unacceptable,” Scott said.

Harris’ tour was the latest by elected officials and law enforcement and education leaders in recent months. Education Secretary Miguel Cardona toured it in January, and several members of Congress, mostly Democrats, have gone through since law enforcement returned custody of the building to the school district last summer. FBI Director Christopher Wray and Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle visited the building in recent days.

“It is important to bring these people through the building so they can see not only the horror that still exists there, but so that we can point to the exact things that failed,” said Tony Montalto, president of Stand With Parkland, the group that represents most of the victims’ families. His 14-year-old daughter Gina died in the shooting.

Some Stoneman Douglas families who participate in the tours, along with Harris and President Joe Biden, want the sale of AR-15s and similar guns banned, as they were from 1994 to 2004, but there isn’t sufficient support in Congress. Opponents, which include other victims’ families, argue that such a ban would violate the Second Amendment and do little to stem gun violence.

Linda Beigel Schulman said the tour showed Harris the carnage a mass shooting creates — it no longer will be an abstract concept for her. Beigel Schulman’s 35-year-old son, geography teacher Scott Beigel, was killed as he ushered students to safety in his classroom. The papers he was grading when the shooting began remain on his desk.

“She understands how important gun violence prevention is for us,” Beigel Schulman said of the vice president. “But when you go into the actual building and see what actually happened, it doesn’t matter that it is six years later. It really does something to you.”

Max Schachter, whose son Alex died in the shooting, uses the tours to persuade officials to enact school safety measures such as making doors and windows bullet-resistant. Alex, 14, died from shots fired through the window of his classroom’s door.

Schachter said while there is disagreement over gun laws, school safety brings the sides together. He pointed particularly to a fall visit by Utah officials, leading to that state enacting a $100 million plan to harden its schools.

“I couldn’t save Alex. But every time I have officials come through that building, lives are saved,” Schachter said.

Copyright © 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, written or redistributed.

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