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Washington, DCBus & minivan tours

Our most recommended Washington, DC Bus & minivan tours

DC: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour with Optional Cruise

1. DC: Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Tour with Optional Cruise

Explore the grandeur of the Nation's capital in style with Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tours. With an entertaining and engaging audio commentary, you can sit back and relax on an open-top double-decker sightseeing bus as you journey through Washington, DC's rich history and daily life. Immerse yourself in the city's most iconic and historic memorials, monuments, and museums. Hop off at any stop to explore at your leisure. Make the most of your day with the flexibility to plan your own itinerary. Choose to do one full loop to see the city or hop off and have your photo taken with Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial. Look out over the Reflecting Pool at the Washington Monument, just as Martin Luther King Jr. did as he delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech from that very spot. With buses arriving regularly throughout the day, you have the freedom to explore at your own pace. Experience all that Washington DC has to offer, from the White House to the US Capitol Building and Capital Hill to the Korean and WWII War Memorials, Arlington National Cemetery, and the MLK and FDR monuments along the beautiful Tidal Basin. Big Bus is the official tour operator of the National Mall, giving you the closest access to world-famous, free museums including the National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, African-American History Museum, The Holocaust Memorial, National American-Indian History, National Portrait Gallery, and more. Complete your DC experience with the 3-Day Explore option and enjoy a scenic 45-minute cruise along the Potomac River between the The Wharf and Georgetown. Admire breathtaking views of iconic landmarks, including the Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument, from the comfort of a climate-controlled vessel. Explore Georgetown's historic colonial neighborhood, with its cobblestone streets, charming shops, and unique restaurants. Alternatively, visit The Wharf for its trendy restaurants, boutiques, concert venues, and on-the-water activities, plus easy access to downtown DC and the National Mall. Ticket is valid for a one-way journey in either direction.

From Washington DC: Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour

2. From Washington DC: Mount Vernon & Old Town Alexandria Tour

Discover the historic Old Town Alexandria on a guided day trip from Washington. Ride along the Potomac River and visit the Mount Vernon Estate, the former residence of George Washington. Enjoy pickup in a luxurious, climate-controlled vehicle while your guide explains the significance of some of the city’s most recognizable monuments. A short drive brings you to the candy-colored architecture of Alexandria, where you can take a tour of some monuments notable to the former president – including the Masonic Temple and Christ Church. Arguably the birthplace of the city itself, George Washington’s former estate is located just 13 miles from the capital’s center. Then, go for an in-depth foray through the mansion, with entrance tickets to the grounds and gardens included. Interactive, historic reenactments bring the founding father’s story to life, while a guided tour of the building helps shine a light on his fascinating story. Next, you'll ride along the Potomac River and visit the Mount Vernon Estate - one of the Washington, DC, area’s premier sightseeing attractions. Explore historic Mount Vernon – from the mansion’s interior where President Washington resided to his beloved gardens, and final resting place.  Take some time for lunch at the Mt Vernon Food Court if you like, then learn more about George Washington’s life and legacy in both the Museum and Education Center – home to more than 700 original objects (including his false teeth) and 25 theaters and galleries. There is even a multi-media theater where it actually snows. After shopping for unique gifts at the Mt Vernon Shops, you will be entertained by your guide as you return back to Washington DC.

Washington, DC: African American History Tour

3. Washington, DC: African American History Tour

Travel back in time to some of the most iconic moments from the civil rights movement on an African American history tour of Washington DC. You will pass by the famous Emancipation Statue, the National Council of Negro Women, and more while learning about the history of the city from your guide.  Get picked up at the U.S. Navy Memorial and head to monuments such as the Emancipation Statue, Howard Theatre, and vibrant local black communities. Stand where Martin Luther King stood when he gave his famous "I have a dream" address and feel the weight of the world on your shoulders. After taking a glimpse into the past at the Home of Frederick Douglas, proceed to Howard University - one of the oldest black universities in the United States. On the way to Howard University, you will drive by Lincoln Park to visit the statue of educator, activist, and founder of the National Council of Negro Women - Mary McLeod Bethune. Following your visit to the beautiful Howard University campus, drive through Le Droit Park, Shaw Neighborhood, and Historic “U” Street. Home to the largest urban African American community in the United States in the early 1900s, it created its own “Black Broadway” - a home to entertainment legends from the past and present.  Next, see the African American Civil War Memorial and Museum to discover how the course of the Civil War was impacted by these disenfranchised soldiers. You will then take a journey into downtown DC to the sites of the national headquarters of the National Council of Negro Women, Freedom Plaza on Pennsylvania Avenue, the White House, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Once downtown, enter the Logan Circle historic district to see the historic Metropolitan AME Church and the Mary McLeod Bethune Council house. Finish the tour at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Enter inside and explore the absorbing artifacts and exhibits at your leisure.

Washington, DC: Scenic Monuments Night Tour by Open-Top Bus

4. Washington, DC: Scenic Monuments Night Tour by Open-Top Bus

Get ready to experience the enchanting beauty of Washington, DC like never before, as you embark on a unique, open-top double-decker night tour with Big Bus Tours. With the city's monuments and memorials dramatically illuminated by the city lights, you'll be mesmerized by the grandeur and significance of the nation's capital. With our expert live guide, available on Friday-Sunday tours only, you'll learn the fascinating history and hidden stories of the Nation's Capital from its founding after the Revolutionary War to its modern workings today. Or, listen to our state-of-the-art digital commentary providing a completely captivating and entertaining experience (Monday-Thursday tours offer digital commentary only with souvenir earbuds). And don't forget to snap some photos along the way! With breathtaking views of the city's most iconic landmarks, you'll want to capture every moment of this unforgettable evening exploring the heart of America's history and culture. See the National Mall and gaze out on the Reflecting Pool just as MLK, Jr. did during his famous "I Have a Dream" speech from the Lincoln Memorial. Pass by the Jefferson Memorial and enjoy the breeze over the Tidal Basin. Take photos of the imposing Washington Monument and the elaborate dome of the Capitol Building, all from the scenic and relaxing top deck seats of the open-top bus. As the official National Park Services tour partner, Big Bus gets you closest to the best DC has to offer: •National Mall •The White House •Lincoln Memorial •Martin Luther King Memorial •Jefferson Memorial •The Capitol Building •WWII Memorial •And much, much more!

Washington DC: National Mall Night Bus Tour

5. Washington DC: National Mall Night Bus Tour

Admire the atmospheric landmarks of the capital from an open-top or glass-top bus as the sun sets on Washington, DC. Take a trip to the twilight zone with mesmerizing views of the city highlights at dusk. See the most famous monuments lit up, casting a glimmering glow over the city. Begin at the U.S. Navy Memorial, before heading through the half-light to capture views of the White House, the Korean War Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Each monument features special illuminations at night, with regular opportunities to hop off and see the spectacular sculpture work up close, along with countless photo opportunities. Marvel at the full shimmering skyline at the start and endpoint of your tour, which also includes views of the twinkling Tidal Basin and Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Night tours don’t get much more magical than this, and pair perfectly with a day tour the following day.

Washington DC: Bus Tour to the Highlights of the Capital

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

Capitalize on your time in the capital with this whistle-stop city tour of Washington DC. Board one of the luxury buses at the U.S. Navy Memorial before cruising past the National Archives to the U.S. Capitol Building. Let your guide give you the lowdown, from the original Declaration of Independence to the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Take in incredible views of the two-mile-long Smithsonian Museum and imposing Washington Monument, which is the tallest freestanding stone structure in the world. You’ll have the chance to stretch your legs with stops at the White House and Lincoln Memorial, where you can climb the stairs to see the famous statue of America’s 16th President. Then, take an informative guided walk around the beautiful WW2 Memorial. The tour takes a loop from the United States Navy Memorial, stopping at memorable sites, such as the Vietnam Memorial, US Capitol Building and Lincoln Memorial. An experienced guide will explain every significant detail of each monument and memorial, and give you the most comprehensive and intimate tour experience DC has to offer. Marvel at the many Smithsonian museums, National Mall, Freedom Plaza, and much more from onboard the bus. Then, learn the history of the White House, Capitol Building, FDR Memorial, and Martin Luther King Memorial during short guided walks.

Washington DC: Night Under the Stars Bus & Walking Tour

7. Washington DC: Night Under the Stars Bus & Walking Tour

See the city of Washington lit up with the dreamy glow of the stars on this exclusive 3-hour night guided night bus/walking tour. As you travel in comfort through the streets of DC and walk through its most important sights, hear the tales of its fascinating history from your knowledgeable live guide. From the Capitol to the White House and Lincoln Memorial and most everything in between, you'll experience Washington lit up at its nighttime best — with the beautiful structures and reflections of light on the water for which this beautiful city is known.  The memorials and monuments you will get off the bus with your tour guide include: • U.S. Capitol ( Exterior photo stop only) • White House ( Exterior photo stop only) • Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial • Korean Memorial • Lincoln Memorial • Vietnam Memorial • World War II Memorial

Washington, DC: 3-Hour Holiday Lights Night-Time Bus Tour

8. Washington, DC: 3-Hour Holiday Lights Night-Time Bus Tour

Take in the illuminated beauty of some of Washington DC’s most famous buildings and monuments, with all their festive décor. Be in awe as you travel through the streets of America’s capital city with its twinkling lights. Your tour will be led by a licensed DC tourist guide who will share stories about the history of this national festival and its fun historic local roots. Your first stop will be the West Lawn to view the People’s Tree evergreen Christmas tree, which has been displayed on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol building since 1964. Each year, the lighting of this tree marks the start of the holiday season on Capitol Hill. This majestic illuminated tree shining in front of the U.S. Capitol is a unique and beautiful part of the Capitol’s holiday season. Next stop is the White House Ellipse, where you will disembark the bus to visit D.C.'s own Pageant of Peace, which symbolizes America’s wish for peace around the world. The centerpiece of the Pageant is the National Christmas Tree decorated with thousands of beautiful twinkling lights. With the backdrop of the White House, it is one of the most glorious holiday sites in D.C. Radiating out from the National Christmas Tree are 56 additional Christmas trees, decorated with hand-made ornaments from each state, territory, and the District of Columbia. A life-size nativity scene and 20 foot tall Menorah are also on the Ellipse. There will also be a stop in the historic Georgetown area to visit one of the installations of the GLOW Light Art Exhibition, which is an outdoor multi-site exhibition featuring national and international pieces of art using light in creative and innovative ways. You will also get a glimpse of the holiday decorations along the main shopping street of this exclusive quaint neighborhood, which was founded in the 17th-century. Along the way, you will experience breathtaking views of the National Mall, with a clear view of both the Washington Monument and the U.S. Capitol Building, which is a photographer’s dream.

Washington: Cherry Blossom Tour

9. Washington: Cherry Blossom Tour

Enjoy the fragrant, fluffy blooms of the famous Washington cherry blossom on a springtime tour of Washington D.C.'s National Cheery Blossom Festival. See the city on a bus tour, then stroll around Tidal Basin on a guided walk. The cherry blossom tour starts at the U.S. Navy Memorial. Hop on an air-conditioned sightseeing minibus to see some of the city's important sights. Listen to your guide as they tell tales of Washington's cherry blossom trees. First planted over 100 years ago, these trees served as a special gift to unite the Empire of Japan and the U.S., and they have been a regular part of the city’s storied past ever since.

Washington DC Must See Sights Half-Day Tour

10. Washington DC Must See Sights Half-Day Tour

Washington D.C. showcases some of the most majestic monuments and memorials in America. With so much to see this sightseeing bus tour makes for a great orientation option, especially for those with little time. Tailored to offer you a historic journey through the rich heritage of the United States, the tour is a quick and efficient way to learn the history of the capital. Ride past the essential monuments, museums, and attractions to relive the history of America on a 3-hour tour. You will stop at the following memorials and monuments on your tour to take pictures: • U. S. Capitol (exterior only and a photo stop only) • White House (exterior only and a photo stop only) • World War II Memorial • Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial • Korean Memorial • Vietnam Memorial • Vietnam Women's Memorial • Lincoln Memorial (tour ends at this memorial)

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Frequently asked questions about Washington, DC Bus & minivan tours

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Other Sightseeing Options in Washington, DC

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What people are saying about Washington, DC

Overall rating

4.3 / 5

based on 3,118 reviews

The holiday lights tour was fantastic! Our guide was knowledgeable and fun and shared great stories as we traveled to each sight. The bus was comfortable and warm which was perfect since it was a very cold evening. For those who love holiday lights, this tour is definitely worth doing. We plan to go again next year.

This was a lovely tour. The guide, Terri, was extremely knowledgeable and gave us even more than we expected. The driver was excellent and we felt very safe. The Alexandria portion of the tour was delightful and much better than expected. All in all, a very good day!

Booked this tour as a last minute tour since it was our last day in DC. Tour did not disappoint! Tour guide was awesome and very knowledgeable!

Fun and educational. It was a quick way to check out all of the major monuments without the hassle of navigating and parking.

Our guide was excellent. Sense of humor and very knowledgeable