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Bus Tours in Washington DC

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

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Signature Tours of DC

Signature Tours, your guide to DC

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Signature Tours Are The Best Guided Tours in Washington DC

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AWARD-WINNING GUIDED TOURS OF WASHINGTON DC

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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.

dc guided bus tours

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.

dc guided bus tours

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.

dc guided bus tours

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

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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

dc guided bus tours

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

dc guided bus tours

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

dc guided bus tours

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

dc guided bus tours

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

dc guided bus tours

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

ARLINGTON MORNING

dc guided bus tours

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

dc guided bus tours

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

dc guided bus tours

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 .

dc guided bus tours

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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. 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
  • 2 Choice on Tour Options

Included Highlights

  • U.S. Capitol Building Tour
  • World War II Memorial
  • Washington National Cathedral
  • Choice on Tour: International Spy Museum or Lincoln Assassination Tour

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.

Extension Style

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.

Experience DC your way by visiting a Smithsonian Museum of your choice.

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.

  • Choice On Tour

Pre and Post Night Stay

Unique Experience

Cultural Experiences

Enhance Your Trip

  • Tour Extensions

After your tour of the Washington National Cathedral, you will choose how you want to see more of D.C. this day. You might choose to join a walking tour retracing the plots and events leading to the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln. During this 1-mile walk, learn about the sites where these connected attacks against the government played out. Or, you could decide to visit the International Spy Museum, which sheds light on the secret world of espionage and intelligence. The museum’s exhibits and experiences take you undercover.

Hotel-Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle

Accommodations

Arrive earlier.

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

...

Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle

Stay longer.

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

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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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Which Washington DC Bus Tours Are Best?

Big bus hop on hop off and more.

dc guided bus tours

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

dc guided bus tours

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

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Tours From Washington DC

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.

  • Prices vary depending on the departure dates in 2024. Please click on the specific date to view the final price.

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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Washington DC & NYC Tours

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Join us today on our award-winning DC tours — recipients of the Travelers’ Choice Award!

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Explore NYC with one of the top 5 U.S. travel experiences — voted twice in the past 5 years!

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Experience an enriching sightseeing journey led by our expert tour guides , who will accompany you at each stop!

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Our NYC and Washington DC bus tours have garnered numerous industry-recognized awards over the years!

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Our bus tours are conducted with climate-controlled luxury tour buses that offer comfort and protection from weather elements!

Washington DC Best Sellers

The National Cherry Blossom Festival

Cherry Blossoms Bus Tour

Enjoy the fragrant, fluffy blooms of the famous Washington cherry blossom with this short springtime tour, which includes a guided walk around the Tidal Basin!

Washington Monument at Night

DC at Dusk Bus Tour

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

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

African American History and Culture Bus Tour

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

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LUXURY BUSES

Discover NY Bus Tour

Discover NYC’s Best: Award-Winning Bus Tour With Expert Guides! Luxury Transportation, Choose Closed-Top or Glass-Top Buses. Book Your City Adventure Now!

Brooklyn Bridge, NYC

Big Apple in Lights Bus Tour

Experience NYC’s Nighttime Magic: Join Our Comfortable, Fully-Guided Bus Tour For an Unforgettable Evening Exploring New York City’s Amazing Sites After Dark!

NYC Private SUV Tour

NYC Private SUV Tour

Private NYC SUV Tour: Explore With Your Group, Led by Our Expert Guides and Designated Drivers. Dive into the Heart of the City in Style!

In the Press

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For an immersive exploration of New York City, hop on the Discover NY Bus Tour. At each stop, guides will exit the vehicle with the group for short walks and provide detailed information regarding sights. The informative and friendly guides routinely win praise from tour-goers!

There’s just so much to see; it’s nice to hand over the reins to someone else who has insider knowledge. Take Discover NY guided bus tour – the 3rd most booked sightseeing experience in the USA this spring on Tripadvisor!

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!

Customer Reviews

Both tours with Joanna & Cesar were excellent! We saw more than we could have done any other way and more importantly understood more of what we were looking at!

We appreciated Nick’s humor, enthusiasm, and knowledge. He made the daytime and the night tours very enjoyable!

Ralph was fantastic! He interacted with everyone in a personal way and made the tour great!

Tripadvisor Reviews

My husband was skeptical at first since it was a bus tour and I was worried we wouldn’t get enough time at our stops, BUT it was great! I felt like there was a perfect amount of time to look and take pictures and even, when available, to stop at the gift shops. Our guide was informative and dependable. The complimentary water was great and we appreciated the access to free ponchos since it was a heavy sprinkle off an on during our tour. The bus was great, the perfect temperature and the seats are comfortable.

Google Reviews

Did it on my first day in DC and gave me ideas on what to revisit or what other venues to go to. The guide Christopher was very knowledgeable and came over excellently.

We had a wonderful tour with Joey! She was knowledgeable, engaged, funny, friendly and a terrific host. We highly recommend this tour. Our only regret is that we didn’t have another day to spend in DC sightseeing!

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Dc travel guide: washington dc cherry blossoms.

Discover the Splendor of Washington DC Cherry Blossoms in 2024 The arrival of spring in Washington DC isn’t just marked by warmer weather and blooming flowers; it’s heralded by a spectacle of delicate pink and white that transforms the city into a breathtaking landscape. The iconic cherry blossoms, a gift from Japan in 1912, have…

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14 Tips for Your First Visit to Washington DC

Planning to Visit Washington, D.C. For The First Time? Here Are a Few of Our Most Important Tips For the First-Time Visitors to DC.

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3-Hour DC Nighttime Monuments Guided Sightseeing Bus Tour

dc guided bus tours

tour highlights

  • 3 hours of breathtaking night sightseeing in a heated bus
  • Visit the National Christmas trees at the White House and US Capitol
  • Tour of your favorite monuments and memorials under the moon and stars
  • Visit the monuments illuminated at night for amazing unique  photos and memories

dc guided bus tours

Adult: $59 Child: $49

Tour Ticket Upgrades Tour ticket upgrades are reserved according to availability. Ticket Upgrades are non refundable and self guided. Washington Monument Tickets are reserved for the day after your night tour. Museums are open 10am-4:30pm. Customer must honor the time reserved on their ticket. Night Tour tickets are reserved for the following day. Any questions please call before reserving. Upgrades are refundable in the event the site is closed

Air & Space Museum Package

Adult: $84 child: $74.

All purchases of packages are final. Tickets are not refundable or transferable. Cannot be exchanged for another ticket. Only refundable in the event the site is closed.

African American Museum Package

Washington monument package, need to know.

meet point: 800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington DC 20004 start time: 7:30pm* end time:   10:30pm

*Please arrive 30 minutes prior to tour start

The 5 Best Washington DC Tours From New York City [2024 Reviews]

New York City is undeniably one of the most exciting cities in the world, but if you’re looking for another historical and cultural experience, check out Washington DC. Sitting just a few hours away from NYC it’s an easy day trip.

If you’re even the slightest bit interested in US history, you can’t miss this opportunity. Oh, and it’s so much more than The White House, Capitol Hill, and the Smithsonian, though those are incredible.

On these top Washington DC tours from NYC tours, your expert guide will take you through the biggest tourist spots as well as plenty of hidden gems. Let’s jump right in!

Best Washington DC Tours From NYC

Quick answer: the 5 best washington dc tours from nyc for 2024.

  • Washington DC Day Trip from New York City
  • 2-Day Washington DC, Philadelphia and Amish Country Tour from New York
  • Washington DC Day Tour from New York City
  • Washington DC and Monuments Day Tour from New York
  • 4-day Niagara Falls, Washington DC, and Philadelphia Tour from New York

Washington DC Tours From NYC Reviews

1. washington dc day trip from new york city.

  • Duration:  11 to 13 hours
  • Departure:  330 W 42nd St, New York, NY 10036
  • Departure Time: 6:30 AM
  • Includes:  Professional tour guide, transport by 15-passenger van or full-sized bus, free wi-fi on bus

There’s a common misconception that in order to see the US, you need to spend a lot of money. With tours like this first one, however, you’d be surprised at the kind of experience you get for the price.

The Washington DC Day Trip from New York City  is an incredible opportunity to see the country’s capital and learn about its history in just half a day!

Starting by you meeting your guide at the Port Authority terminal building at 6:30 am, there’s no time to waste! Depending on the size of your group, you’ll either take a smaller van or a full-size bus!

Both come with free wifi on board, so you don’t have to worry about every losing signal or not staying up on emails while you’re cruising along.

I thought the journey there was actually quite entertaining in itself, as you get to watch the beautiful landscapes from Delaware, NJ, and Maryland as the guide tells entertaining stories!

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Once you get to DC, you’ll make a visit first to the most well-known cemetery in the US: Arlington. Nearly 400,000 men and women were laid to rest here, and you’ll also get to see the Kennedy family gravesite, too.

After this, you’ll tour over to see the imposing Capitol, Senate, and White House which was built between 1792 and 1800 with a necessary reconstruction in 1812 due to the British army’s invasion.

After, continue on to the Smithsonian, along with an array of important memorials for learning about and taking photos.

More Information & Tour Booking

100% refund for cancellations within 24 hours of tour experience, 2. 2-day washington dc, philadelphia and amish country tour from new york.

  • Duration:  2 days
  • Departure Time:  6:30 AM
  • Includes:  Pro tour guide, breakfast, transport by air-conditioned bus, sightseeing in Philly and DC, 1-night hotel accommodation, continental breakfast, authentic Amish buggy ride, wi-fi on bus

Our next tour is simply one of the most comprehensive educational and cultural experiences one could possibly have in this area of the US. Covering 3 very diverse destinations in a couple of days, you’re going to learn and see more than you thought possible!

Needless to say, the 2-Day Washington DC, Philadephia and Amish Country Tour from New York  is really something special.

Kick things off at 6:30 am, meeting your guide at a convenient location where you’ll hop on your air-conditioned bus. Philly is super close to NYC, so it’s really not much of a journey to your first destinations.

Upon arrival, you’ll first head to the Liberty Bell Center, where you’ll get to see and learn about the famous Liberty Bell, see Constitution Square, and Congress Hall. You’ll get to see the Rocky Statue and steps, the financial district, as well as the incredible local architecture in historic Philadelphia.

Then, you’re going to get quite a cultural switch here by heading on over to Amish farm country, where you’ll take a fun ride on an authentic Amish buggy! Learn about how this community lives without electricity, running water, phone services, appliances, and other modern technology.

For me, this was actually the coolest part – a lot of assumptions are made about the Amish but to see and learn in person was really eye-opening.

After getting some rest (and breakfast!) at the Wyndham Garden in DC, you’ll start the day off bright and early with a visit to important monuments such as the Jefferson Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and more.

Next, make your way to the National Air and Space Museum and the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History before checking out Capitol Hill and the White House. With fully-guided tours throughout, you’ll pack your brain full of fun facts and anecdotes at each site!

3. Washington DC Day Tour from New York City

  • Duration:  14 hours
  • Departure:  1651 Broadway, New York, NY 10019
  • Includes:  Professional guide, fully-guided tour, transport via Mercedes Sprinter or coach bus, free wi-fi on vehicle, all taxes and fees

Visiting Washington DC should be on anyone’s bucket list, no matter where they’re from or what they’re interested in. Steeped in a rich history (to say the least!), you can imagine the architecture, galleries, museums, and memorials you’ll get the chance to see.

With the Washington DC Day Tour from New York City , it’s all possible on a convenient day-long expedition! Your professional tour will also start out early in the morning to make the most of the day. Hop on your air-conditioned Mercedes Sprinter or coach, which both have plenty of spacious seating and wi-fi so you’re never out of contact.

Passing through the states of New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland, there’s no lack of pretty scenery as you journey on. As you enjoy the landscapes, listen to your guide tell you all kinds of interesting stories about the area and Washington DC.

Once you get to DC, you and your group will start off at Arlington National Cemetery where you’ll visit a whole lot of historical graves, including the Kennedy family gravesite.

Renowned for its impressive monuments and memorials, you’ll also visit the iconic Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, WWII Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, among many others.

You’ll learn about the significant historical events and individuals around them, and why they made such an impact to the United States and our way of ilfe.

As the seat of the US government, Washington DC offers many opportunities to see where these political processes actually take place. On this particular tour, you will not enter the White House and Capitol, but you’ll get the chance to see outside.

There’s no way we can leave out the National Mall with its stunning reflecting pool, followed by a trip to the beautiful Union Station with its stunning vaulted main hall ceilings, marble columns, and intricate details.

4.  Washington DC and Monuments Day Tour from New York

  • Departure: 790 7th Ave, New York, NY 10019
  • Departure Time: 5:50 AM
  • Includes:  Professional guide, air-conditioned vehicle

I think a lot of us imagine Washington DC basically just as the seat of the US government, filled with memorials and museums rather than a city where plenty of civilians live.

I really enjoyed this tour as it not only showed us the “touristy” side of things, but also took us through the vibrant neighborhoods with their unique character and charm.

The  Washington DC and Monuments Day Tour from New York  is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in DC’s interesting atmosphere while learning about the history behind it.

This tour starts off a bit earlier than most, but for me, that was perfectly fine as the air-conditioned coach was so smooth and comfortable that it lulled me to sleep. Once we arrived in DC I was energized and ready to take on this new adventure!

After driving for a few hours, you’ll finally arrive in DC for the first stop of the day: Arlington National Cemetery.

Once at Arlington, you’ll learn how it’s the final resting place for hundreds of thousands of veterans who fought in American conflicts starting from the Revolutionary War.

If you or someone close to you is a Marine, you’ll definitely find the Marine Corps War Memorial dating back to 1775 very interesting. The Memorial Park ties in perfectly, featuring monuments from various wars, as well as President Lincoln, and the famous Obelisk.

There’s no way you can visit DC without stopping by to see the US Capitol and a somber stroll through National Mall: America’s most visited national park. When at the Capitol, you’ll learn all about its very colorful history and have some time to take photos in front.

When in the National Mall, you’ll browse through various museums and galleries on a guided tour followed by almost 2 hours of free time for lunch and exploring.

5. 4-day Niagara Falls, Washington DC, and Philadelphia Tour from New York

  • Duration:  4 days
  • Includes:  Pro tour guide, transport by van or full-sized bus, 3 nights hotel accommodation with tax and continental breakfast, wi-fi on bus

If you’re looking for the ultimate experience in hitting all those “bucket list” places in the region, we sure have you covered with this next tour.

It’s perfect if you have a few days and want to see some of the coolest locations outside of NYC! The 4-Day Niagara Falls, Washington DC, and Philadelphia Tour from New York  allows you to see 4 of the most popular (and varied!) destinations in the easiest way possible.

Start by meeting your guide and the rest of your group at 6:30 am right in front of the Port Authority Bus Terminal Building and hop aboard your van! If you have quite a few people in your party, you may end up taking a full-sized bus but both are very comfortable.

Head north first, where you’ll get to behold the beautiful Delaware Water Gap and even take some time to stroll through Watkins Glen Canyon. Upon arrival to Niagara Falls, you’ll get a full tour of Niagara, including the American Falls, Goat Island, and Luna Island.

 At night, you can choose to either cross the border into Canada or stay on the American side for some free time.

Then, get some rest at the Microtel by Wyndham Niagara Falls or the Quality Inn Lockport. In the morning, you’ll make your way back down south, stopping at the Crossings Premium Outlets for some shopping.

After resting in New Jersey for the night, you’ll head to Philadelphia to see the Liberty Bell Center, Rocky Statue, historic Philly, and more. Enjoy an authentic Amish buggy ride and learn how this interesting community lives without modern technology.

In the late afternoon, you’ll head over to Washington DC where you’ll take a guided tour through all sorts of memorials, museums, and more.

FAQs About Washington DC tours from New York City

Can you do a tour of washington dc in one day.

You can definitely do a tour of Washington DC in one day from New York City.

The tours depart from various locations in Manhattan, such as Times Square, Grand Central Station, Penn Station. You’ll travel by comfortable coach or minibus with free Wi-Fi on board and a professional guide who will share fascinating facts and stories about Washington DC.

You’ll arrive in Washington DC in about 4 hours and start your sightseeing. You’ll have plenty of time to take photos, explore, and learn about the history and culture of Washington DC. Some tours also include lunch or snacks but you can of course check out the local places for lunch and dinner.

How long are the tours?

The tours last from 11 to 15 hours. It depends on the itinerary and traffic. You’ll have plenty of time to see the highlights of Washington DC, such as the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian Museums, and more. You’ll also enjoy a scenic drive through the countryside and stop at some interesting places along the way.

How do I get to the tour departure point?

The tours leave from locations in Manhattan, like Times Square, Grand Central Station, Penn Station. You can choose the most convenient location for you and most departure points can be reached by public transportation.

What is included in the tour price?

The tour price includes round-trip transportation by comfortable coach or minibus, a professional guide who will share fascinating facts and stories about Washington DC, admission to selected attractions and museums, and free Wi-Fi on board. Some tours also include lunch or snacks.

What should I bring on the tour?

You should bring your photo ID, your confirmation voucher, a camera, a phone charger, cash for souvenirs and tips, and comfortable shoes and clothing for walking.

What Will I See on a Washington DC Tour?

  • The White House: You’ll get to admire its elegant architecture and learn about its history and secrets.
  • The U.S. Capitol : Where the legislative branch meets. You’ll get to see its impressive dome and visit its chambers and galleries.
  • The National Mall : It has monuments and memorials dedicated to our nation’s heroes, like the Washington Monument, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
  • The Smithsonian Institution : A group of museums and research centers that showcase the nation’s culture and history.
  • The International Spy Museum : A unique museum that reveals the world of espionage and intelligence. You’ll get to see spy gadgets, weapons, vehicles, and costumes, as well as participate in interactive exhibits and missions.

Tour Guides

The Washington DC Day Trip from New York City is our Editors Choice for the best Washington DC tour from NYC

Robert Baker

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  1. THE 10 BEST Washington DC Bus Tours (w/Prices)

    DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart. 2,049. Explore the famous monuments and war memorials of Washington, DC on this small-group or private sightseeing tour. Hop aboard a special eCruiser vehicle and enjoy an educational and entertaining narrated history of our nation's capital.

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    Washington DC Sightseeing Guided Tours Discover Great Adventures Hop on board the DC Guided Tour bus and get ready for the ride! easy ride Your comfort is our concern. So you will travel in a brand new bus with leather seats, air conditioner and an expert driver who makes your safety top priority. friendly guide

  3. Big Bus Tours DC

    Big Bus Tours Washington DC offers unmissable sightseeing tours of the nation's capital city on open-top, double-decker buses. Passing all the most famous landmarks and attractions, Big Bus Tours also feature entertaining and informative pre-recorded commentary, provided by digital guides available in several languages through complimentary headphones distributed when you board the bus.

  4. Washington DC Bus Tours : The Official Washington DC Guide

    Enjoy a comfortable and informative ride through Washington DC with a DC bus or trolley tour. These tours are great for anyone who wants to sit back and relax while still seeing sights like the monuments, the Capitol Building, the White House, Georgetown, the Vietnam Memorial and more. Hop-on/hop-off tours allow travelers to set their own pace ...

  5. Washington DC Tours: Award-Winning DC Bus Tours

    Our expert tour guides will accompany you on an extensively guided tour of Washington DC, unveiling both the iconic landmarks and hidden gems of the city from the comfort of a climate-controlled luxury tour bus. Our Washington DC tours are designed as public, private, or customized options to accommodate all your requirements and interests.

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    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.

  7. THE 10 BEST Washington DC Bus Tours

    Enjoy an informative private guided tour where you will have the opportunity to visit inside and learn about the United …. 29. Potomac River Cruise & City Bus Tour with Optional Entry Tickets. Explore the best of Washington, DC with a guided, 6-hour bus tour which involves walking at the city's top sites.

  8. Washington DC: Bus Tour to the Highlights of the Capital

    16 San Diego. 17 Niagara Falls, USA. 18 Everglades City. 19 St. Augustine, Florida. 20 San Antonio. Discover the highlights and landmarks of Washington DC on a guided bus tour. Join your guide on walking visits to major public monuments as you learn about their history.

  9. DC Combo: City Bus Tour, Seasonal Cruise, US Capitol ...

    tour highlights 6-hour tour of the US Capitol and top Washington DC top monuments Friendly expert guide with live narration both on and off the bus ride in climate-controlled touring bus, for an entertaining self discovery trip photo ops at stops to snap memories that will last a lifetime discover the history, culture, architecture and

  10. Washington DC Guided Tour, Escorted Trip, Vacation Package

    6 DAYS. From $2,399. $2,159 pp*. Save up to 10%. *Rate is per person, land only, double occupancy, tour inclusions and available options may vary based on departure date. Please select a date below for more details. Tour Highlights Itinerary Reviews Enhance Your Trip. VIEW ALL.

  11. The BEST Washington, DC Guided tours 2024

    Washington DC: Bus Tour to the Highlights of the Capital. 4 hours; Booked 6 times yesterday. 4.7 (133) From. $59. per person. Guided tour. Washington, DC: National Archives - Guided Museum Tour. ... DC on a guided walking tour. Enjoy entry tickets to the Library of Congress and Capitol Building. View the Supreme Court building and walk on ...

  12. DC Highlights Day Bus Tour of DC Landmarks

    DC Highlights and Arlington Cemetery Bus Tour. Experience Washington DC and Arlington, Virginia on this full-day tour. Visit DC's most famous landmarks and monuments with your personal guide! $84 / $74 MORE INFO. 4h. Day Tours Bus Tours.

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

    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.

  14. Discover DC Tour: Day Bus Tour of DC Experience

    start: 10 AM. duration: 6 hours. place: U.S. Navy Memorial. type: Bus + Boat Tours. PUBLIC TOUR $89+ / $79+ per adult / per child book now. PRIVATE TOUR $1,218+ per group book now. Private & Customized Tours Any public tour can be set up as a private tour as well.

  15. Washington DC Bus Tours

    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 ...

  16. Guided Bus Tours,Travel & Vacation Packages from Washington DC

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

  17. USA Guided Tours

    Explore DC and NYC With Guided Washington DC and NYC Tours Led by Expert Local Guides. Award-Winning Bus Tours, Private, and Guided Walking Tours! Tours. New York; Washington DC; About Us. About Us; ... Fully-Guided Bus Tour For an Unforgettable Evening Exploring New York City's Amazing Sites After Dark! $59 / $49 MORE INFO. 4h. Private Tours ...

  18. 3-Hour DC Nighttime Monuments Guided Sightseeing Bus Tour

    meet point: 800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington DC 20004start time: 7:30pm*end time:10:30pm. *Please arrive 30 minutes prior to tour start. tour highlights 3 hours of breathtaking night sightseeing in a heated bus Visit the National Christmas trees at the White House and US Capitol Tour of your favorite monuments and memorials under the moon ...

  19. The BEST Washington, DC Bus & minivan tours 2024

    8. From NYC: Guided Day Trip to Washington DC by Van or Bus. Journey from NYC to Washington on a full-day trip to see the sights of the nation's capital with a Spanish-speaking guide. Visit the most important monuments, memorials and buildings like the White House and the Washington Monument.

  20. The 5 Best Washington DC Tours From New York City [2024 Reviews]

    Professional guide, fully-guided tour, transport via Mercedes Sprinter or coach bus, free wi-fi on vehicle, all taxes and fees Tour Information & Booking Quick Answer: The 5 Best Washington DC Tours From NYC For 2024

  21. 6 Alternative DC Area Tours Not About Museums or Monuments

    DC-Metro Modern Home Tour. This self-guided tour, typically held the first Saturday in October, offers entry to at least five modernist homes around the District, Maryland, and Virginia. Chat with builders and designers for insights on bringing a modern feel to your space. Previous tours highlighted a rowhouse made of organic materials and a ...