Washington, DC
Tours

Our most recommended things to do in Washington, DC

From NYC: Guided Day Trip to Washington DC by Van or Bus

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 profesional tour guide. Visit the most important monuments, memorials and buildings like the White House and the Washington Monument. Head down South from NYC in a comfortable air-conditioned bus, passing through New Jersey and Delaware, with a stop in Delaware to stretch your legs, use the restrooms and breakfast. We will continue passing Maryland and its capital Baltimore until we reach Washington DC. The tour begins by passing the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and the Pentagon and continues to Arlington National Cemetery, where your guide will escort you to the Kennedy brothers' gravesite and explore its lush gardens. Afterward, you'll head to the Iwo Jima Memorial, where you'll hop off and have time to take photos. Throughout the tour, your guide will share interesting facts about the city Next, we'll cross the Potomac River to pass through Georgetown, a charming neighborhood with Federal-style architecture and cobblestone streets. We'll pass Constitution Avenue, where you'll see the State Department, the Institute of Peace, and the Albert Einstein Memorial. Visit the National Mall and walk with your guide through locations that have appeared in films and television series. We'll walk past the Korean War Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam War Memorial. You'll recognize the Forrest Gump Reflecting Pool. You'll also see the city's most visited monuments: the World War II Memorial and the Washington Monument (the Obelisk). Back on the bus, you'll continue a tour that includes the offices of important organizations such as the Organization of American States (OAS), the American Red Cross, the Department of the Treasury, the Federal Reserve Building, and the Office of the Vice President. You'll then arrive at the White House, where you'll disembark to walk through the gardens. Then, you'll continue along Washington's main avenue (Pennsylvania Avenue) and see the FBI buildings, the National Archives, the Canadian Embassy, the IRS, the Department of Justice, and more. We will arrive at the Capitol where we will get off to walk and take pictures. Your final stop will be the National Mall, where you’ll have 90 minutes free time to visit the exhibits, have lunch, and take photos. On the way back to NYC, you’ll be treated to a night-time panoramic view of NYC from New Jersey. 

From New York City: Washington and Philadelphia 1-Day Tour

From New York City: Washington and Philadelphia 1-Day Tour

Discover the roots of American democracy on a full-day guided tour from New York City to Washington, DC and Philadelphia. Travel comfortably with roundtrip transfers as you explore iconic landmarks and historical highlights in both cities. Start your adventure early in the morning from Times Square, where a bilingual guide will welcome you aboard. First, head to Washington, DC, the capital of the United States. Visit must-see sites like the Iwo Jima Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial, then enjoy photo stops outside the White House and the Capitol Building. Continue your journey to Philadelphia, the nation’s original capital. After a short lunch break along the way, explore the charming Old City on a walking tour, including stops at Independence Hall and Liberty Bell. Climb the famous Rocky Steps before returning to Manhattan in the evening. Perfect for history lovers, this day trip offers a memorable look at America’s political heritage.

DC: Hop-on Hop-off Tour by Open-top Bus with Cherry Blossoms

DC: Hop-on Hop-off Tour by Open-top Bus with Cherry Blossoms

Big Bus is the official preferred tour of the Cherry Blossom Festival. No one gets you closer to the natural beauty of the Nation's Capital. Explore 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 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 Capitol 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. 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!

DC: Capitol Hill and Library of Congress Tour with Tickets

DC: Capitol Hill and Library of Congress Tour with Tickets

Take in the grandeur of Capitol Hill on a guided walking tour to explore the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and the US Capitol. Learn about the country's legislative and judicial branches, discover the history behind each turn, and step inside with the included entry tickets. Supreme Court: Marvel at the Marple Palace. The tour does not enter the halls of justice, but you will get a full understanding of the judicial branch. Gaze at the intricate mosaic and artwork of the Library of Congress' Main Hall and Reading Room. See an original Gutenberg Bible, learn about Thomas Jefferson's literary pursuits, and view his original library collection. Take a peek in the main Reading Room, and have some time to explore the newest exhibit, "Treasures." Admire the collection of the library's most precious items, such as a draft of the Gettysburg Address handwritten by President Abraham Lincoln, original handwritten lyrics for “The Sound of Music,” Maya Lin’s original drawings for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, original artwork by Stan Lee and Steven Ditko for the Spider-Man comic, and President James Madison’s crystal flute (the one that Lizzo got to play). See the US Capitol Building to marvel at its neoclassical style and iconic architecture while your guide details its rich history. Learn what survived the Burning of Washington and how the Statue of Freedom was placed at the top of the dome in the midst of the American Civil War. Discover the best angle to get the full building in your photo, before coming to your last stop, the Capital Visitor Center. Here, see the original plaster model of Freedom and a few of the statues from the National Statuary Collection. Your guide will also secure those hard-to-get tickets for the docent-led "Red Coat" tour for you to use at the end. Their experience brings you into the Crypt, the Rotunda, and the Old House for a full experience of the US Capitol. This experience is included in the overall length of the tour, but please remember there will be a separate docent for this experience.

New York City: Full-Day Washington DC City Highlights Tour

New York City: Full-Day Washington DC City Highlights Tour

Explore the political center of the United States on this day trip from New York to Washington, D.C. Join your guide and learn about the US capital and discover notable sights including the White House, the Mall, Arlington National Cemetery, and the gravesite of John F. Kennedy. Depart from central New York and head south to Washington DC in comfortable air-conditioned buses or minivans. Pass through the states of New Jersey, Delaware, and Maryland before arriving in the nation's capital. Visit the Arlington National Cemetery and pause at the grave of John F. Kennedy. Continue to Capitol Hill, and admire the views of the Capitol, Senate, and White House. Learn about these iconic buildings and their important functions in the US government. Explore the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Then, pause for reflection at the Lincoln Memorial and the Korean and Vietnam War Memorials. In the late afternoon, embark on a bus tour of other areas of the city, before heading back to New York.

DC: Washington Monument Direct Entry with Guidebook

DC: Washington Monument Direct Entry with Guidebook

Arrive at the Washington Monument and present your ticket to a ranger, who will direct you to the appropriate area. Go through a brief security check before ascending on the elevator. Upon reaching the top of the monument, take in the incredible views of Washington DC and its important landmarks like the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, the Capitol, and the White House Use your guidebook and its layouts to see what is where, read about historical insight, and discover key details to further enhance your visit. Enjoy the unique vantage point for an unparalleled perspective of the capital's layout and history before heading back down to ground level.

DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

DC: Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise on the Spirit

See the sights of Washington DC from onboard the Spirit of Washington with a lunch or dinner cruise on the Potomac River. Enjoy a buffet dining experience as you sail, and delight in panoramic views. Board your vessel and receive a personal greeting. Have your photo taken by the ship's photographer to capture the memory before being seated at your private table. Once there, gorge on your lunch or dinner buffet consisting of creative entrees prepared fresh daily and listen to the onboard music. After your meal, visit any of the three climate-controlled decks as you glide by the sights. LUNCH/DINNER BUFFET SAMPLE MENU SALADS FIELD GREEN SALAD (G*)(VG)Tomatoes | Cucumbers | Carrots | Ranch Dressing | Balsamic Dressing KALE QUINOA SALAD (G*)(VG)(V)Quinoa | Roasted Red Pepper | Spinach | Lemon Oregano Vinaigrette GREEN GODDESS PASTA SALAD (V)Sweet Peas | White Beans | Scallions MAIN HONEY SESAME CHICKEN (G*)Scallions | Fresno Chillies OVEN ROASTED WHITEFISH (G*)Spicy Tomato | White Bean Ragu BAKED ZITI PASTA (V)Aged Reggiano Parmesan Cheese | Mozzarella Cheese | Spinach Cream Sauce ROOT VEGETABLE FRICASSEE (G*)(VG)(V)Idaho Potatoes | Broccoli | Grape Tomatoes | Gremolata | Cauliflower Coconut Cream Sauce COMPLEMENTSROASTED BROCCOLI (G*)(VG)(V)Toasted Garlic | Chili Flakes GARLIC MASHED POTATOES (G*)(V)Idaho Potatoes | Roasted Garlic DESSERTSIGNATURE DESSERT STATION (V)Cakes | Brownies | Seasonal Fruit | *May Contain Nuts *Menus subject to change

Washington, DC: Day & Night Electric Cart & Vintage Car Tour

Washington, DC: Day & Night Electric Cart & Vintage Car Tour

Head to the meeting point and hop into a luxury vintage car powered by an eco-friendly electric motor. Then, set out on your guided tour of Washington's famous monuments and memorials. As you travel, listen to the fascinating backstories of the sights you pass, making stops along the way to capture the perfect photos. See the United States Capitol Building, the Washington Monument, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and more. There will be plenty of opportunities to get off and take a closer look and take pictures. End your tour with a deeper understanding of the U.S. capital's monuments and memorials and gain insight into the historical context to some of DC's most renowned sites.

Washington DC: Monuments by Moonlight Nighttime Trolley Tour

Washington DC: Monuments by Moonlight Nighttime Trolley Tour

See the most popular monuments of the U. S. capital illuminated at night on a guided trolley tour. The route follows streets that have been traveled by presidents and makes three stops for you to get off the trolley and explore the memorials on your own and take photos. Enjoy entertaining commentary from a professional tour guide who will entertain you with stories about the Capitol’s colorful past. The three stops on the tour are: 1. The Martin Luther King Memorial & the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial 2. The Iwo Jima Memorial. a US Marine Corps War Memorial (this stop is currently not made due to a bridge closure) 3. The Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Korean War Veterans Memorial Besides stops at the major memorials, you will also get spectacular views of the Washington Memorial the White House, the National Mall, the Capitol Buildings, the Jefferson Memorial, the Smithsonian Museums and Castle, the FBI & Dept of Justice Buildings, and the World War II Memorial.

Washington DC: National Mall Tour by Electric Vehicle

Washington DC: National Mall Tour by Electric Vehicle

After climbing aboard a comfortable electric cart, set off towards the Smithsonian complex. Marvel at the size of the largest museum and research complex in the world. Next, discover three of the most well-known statues in Washington DC, those of Thomas Jefferson, Abraham Lincoln, and George Washington, arguably the three most beloved presidents of the U.S. From here, take a moment to pause and remember those who lost their lives in battle as you visit various war memorials. Gaze at the World War I, World War II, the Korean War Veterans, and Vietnam War Veterans memorial sites. Then, get your camera ready for one of the most recognizable landmarks in the whole world, the White House, the home of the U.S. President. Finally, feast your eyes on Capitol Hill, home to the United States Congress.

Top activities

283 activities found
Sort by:
Recommended

Go beyond Washington, DC

Explore all

Frequently asked questions about Washington, DC

What top attractions are a must-see in Washington, DC?

The must-see attractions in Washington, DC are:

See all must-see sights in Washington, DC

What are the best day trips and excursions from Washington, DC?

The best day trips and excursions from Washington, DC are:

See all day trips and excursions from Washington, DC on GetYourGuide

Insider tips: Explore Washington DC like a local

Megan & Aram is a travel blog that focuses mostly on travel in the Nordics and Eastern Europe with the occasional trip beyond those regions. We love coffee, promoting small businesses, and sports.

What should I do on my first trip to Washington DC?

While there are seemingly endless fantastic things to do in Washington, DC, some must-sees include the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the Capitol Building. You'll see most of them on a stroll along the National Mall — the grand centerpiece of America's capital. Check out one (or several) of the Smithsonian museums, like the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, or the National Museum of American History.

What are some hidden gems to see in Washington DC?

If you want to escape the city for a moment of tranquility, head to Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. The big showstopper here is the beautiful lotus flowers that bloom in summer. Some of the less-visited of the 20 or so Smithsonian museums are great to visit too, like the National Postal Museum. It might be niche, but it's a very fun, interactive museum to explore.

How much time should I spend in Washington DC?

Three to five days is a good length of time to see the main sights of DC and fit in a few of the hidden gems, but you could easily spend a week or more exploring the many great things DC has to offer. Less than three days and you’ll only be able to hit just a few top attractions, though you’ll still get a feel for the city.

What food is Washington DC known for?

Washington, DC's diverse demographic mean it's got a great food scene with loads of options. DC is known for its “half-smoke,” a type of hot dog that is half pork, half beef, and smoked and served on a warm bun with chili and onions. Grab one at Ben’s Chili Bowl, a landmark restaurant serving half-smokes since 1958. Pupusas, stuffed flatbreads with El Salvador origins, are also extremely popular in the city.

What is the best way to get around Washington DC?

Many of the top attractions are within walking distance from each other, so getting around DC is a breeze for most. Want to go a bit faster but still have the flexibility to take a detour when something catches your eye? The city’s bike share program is easy to use. There's also an accessible bus and metro system to take you around the city and surrounding areas. Renting a car or taking a taxi can be a hindrance due to heavy traffic and difficulty parking, so avoid it if you can.

What are the best months to visit Washington DC?

Fall is a perfect time to go to Washington, DC, as the weather is very pleasant and the crowds are fewer. Spring is lovely as well, especially because of the famous cherry blossoms which attract hoards of people. Summer can be hot and humid, and it's the peak tourist season, so if you're not a fan of that combination it isn't the best time to go. In winter, things tend to be less expensive and less crowded, but it can be freezing and some attractions may close.

What are the best neighborhoods to visit in Washington DC?

Georgetown is a quaint neighborhood that’s been around since Colonial times. Wander along the bustling cobblestone streets lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants, and take a breather in Georgetown Waterfront Park. Shaw is a trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood with great nightlife, live music, art, and shopping. You can also take the metro to Old Town Alexandria, VA, just south of DC. This beautiful riverside neighborhood has small-town vibes and a big character with fantastic boutiques, antique stores, and ice cream parlors.

What are the best neighborhoods for food?

The ethnic diversity of Columbia Heights is reflected in its fantastic restaurants. Whether you want to eat Laotian, Ethiopian, Louisiana Creole, or many other cuisines, you’ll find something to satisfy your cravings. H Street has the largest selection of restaurants, from vegan cafes to Michelin-starred institutions. Trendy Shaw is a hotspot for foodies, with tons of buzzy new restaurants in a small radius.

What are the best neighborhoods for shopping?

Georgetown has a chic mix of high-end boutiques, indie shops, antique shops, art galleries, and international retailers. For a full range of options, head to CityCenterDC, a large outdoor shopping mall with shops, cafes, and restaurants. If you’re looking for a great market, Union Market has more than 40 vendors, food, and live music to enjoy.

What neighborhood should I stay in when I visit Washington DC?

One of DC’s most popular neighborhoods, Dupont Circle has it all: shopping, food, farmers markets, nightlife, and galleries. Its metro station easily connects you to other neighborhoods. Stay near the National Mall if you want to be close to the monuments and museums and like to be in bed early (there's no nightlife nearby). You could also consider Arlington or Alexandria, both in Virginia. These charming cities are both within easy reach of the capital and among some of the best day trips from Washington, DC.

What is the best family-friendly thing to do in Washington DC?

There are tons of great family-friendly things to do in Washington, DC — kids will never be bored! Kid-friendly museums, such as the National Museum of Natural History or the International Spy Museum, abound. Nature lovers will adore the Botanical Gardens, especially its Children’s Garden (with free activities) and the Butterfly Garden. Watching a Washington Nationals baseball game is also an exciting activity for kids and adults alike.

What is the best thing to do in Washington DC for solo travelers?

One of the greatest joys of solo travel is going at your own pace. This is maximized in DC, where you have many fascinating museum options and the freedom to spend as long as you like at whichever one strikes your fancy. A sightseeing walking tour or a food tour with a local guide are also great ways to see the city if you still want some company. A tour allows you to learn some of the city’s history, get insider tips, sample some amazing dishes, and meet other travelers.

What is the best thing to do in Washington DC for couples?

There are so many great date ideas for you and your partner in Washington, DC, from museum hopping and monument tours to to romantic restaurants and biking around beautiful parks and along the Potomac River. Take some time to visit the gorgeous Hillwood Estate in the northwest part of DC, full of Russian and French art, luxurious rooms, and a lovely 13-acre garden. In the evening, check out some of the nightlife in DC. Grab a drink at a pub or wine bar before heading to one of the city's great jazz clubs.

What are the best annual events in Washington DC?

One of the most famous events in Washington, DC, is the Cherry Blossom Festival, which happens at the end of March or the beginning of April (depending on the year’s weather). This gorgeous season swathes the Tidal Basin in pink, and the two-week festival is full of events including a kite festival and a Japanese street fair. The 4th of July Independence Day Festival is big in DC too — it is the country’s capital. Enjoy a great concert before the enormous fireworks show over the National Mall.

What are the best things to do around Washington DC?

If you want to escape the busy city for a quiet moment, head to Rock Creek Park or Theodore Roosevelt Island. These two areas offer miles of trails and green space within the city. A little further away, Great Falls Park is 800 acres of lush parkland, hiking trails, waterfalls, and rushing rapids that will delight your senses.

Explore Washington, DC

Read our complete guide to Washington, DC, or discover the city's best experiences.

What people are saying about Washington, DC

Overall rating

4.5 out of 5 stars
4.5
4.5 out of 5 stars
(7,442 reviews)
5 out of 5 stars

Our guide Jesse was excellent. He was very knowledgeable and put a lot of thought into the commentary. We learnt so much about the history of America from him. He was attentive and great and responding and explaining.

5 out of 5 stars

Great experience. The app is seamless, especially appreciated the flexibility to stop and go at our own pace. Bring a power bank though- the app whittles through battery power.

5 out of 5 stars

Carlito is the best guide, very attentive to each client, my husband and I were satisfied, I recommend him to everyone!!

5 out of 5 stars

Our guide, Nur was pleasant and knowledgeable and we enjoyed walking the mall with him!

5 out of 5 stars

Brooke was a knowledgeable guide. Enjoyed the tour immensely.