Washington DC Guided Tours

Expert local guides
Expert local guides
Carefully curated routes
Carefully curated routes
Personalized experience
Personalized experience
Guide discussing the Supreme Court with tourists in Washington D.C.
























































A guided tour of Washington DC offers…

✔️ Seamless sightseeing: Sit back and relax as your guide takes you through DC’s most iconic landmarks without the stress of navigation.

✔️ Stories that stick: Learn fascinating facts, insider anecdotes, and little-known details that bring the city’s monuments and museums to life.

✔️ Options for every traveler: From bus rides to electric carts, pick the tour style that best fits your comfort and pace.

✔️ Maximized use of time: Cover more ground efficiently while still getting a personal, informative experience at every stop.

Supreme Court building with visitors on steps, Washington DC.

What to expect on a guided tour of Washington DC

Tourists on a Big Bus Tour in Washington, D.C., with the Washington Monument in the background.
Tourists listening to a guide in front of the Lincoln Memorial at dawn, Washington D.C.
Three soldiers stand at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Arlington National Cemetery, Washington, D.C.
Tour bus in front of illuminated Lincoln Memorial at night, Washington, DC.
View of the U.S. Capitol from Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C.
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Meet your guide and get settled

Most tours begin at a central meeting point near the National Mall or Union Station, where you’ll check in, meet your guide, and board your bus or bike. Priority boarding ensures you skip the hassle and head straight to your first landmark.

Explore the National Mall monuments

Your guide will lead you through the core of Washington DC, which includes the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Each stop includes time to explore, take photos, and absorb stories that add depth to the monuments.

Dive deeper at Arlington National Cemetery

On select tours, you’ll visit Arlington, one of the most moving sites in America. Highlights include the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Kennedy family gravesites, and the Changing of the Guard ceremony, with your guide providing respectful commentary throughout.

See DC in a different light

Evening tours offer a magical experience: monuments glowing under floodlights, the US Capitol dome shining, and the city taking on a serene atmosphere. Whether by bus or by bike, these twilight journeys show DC’s landmarks from a fresh perspective.

End with flexibility

Once the guided portion ends, you’re welcome to continue exploring on your own. Guides are happy to recommend nearby restaurants, museums, and hidden gems so you can extend your DC adventure.

Which guided tour is best for you

Tram tour at Arlington National Cemetery with Memorial in background, Washington, D.C.

Day tours

  • Duration: Flexible (hop-on hop-off)
  • Group size: Various options, with frequent departures
  • Languages: English, with Spanish audio guides available
  • Why go: Walk or ride through one of the most hallowed grounds in America. Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the Kennedy family gravesites, and memorials to fallen heroes, all at your own pace.
  • Popular option: Arlington National Cemetery Guided Tour
Lincoln Memorial illuminated at night with visitors, Washington D.C.

Night tours

  • Duration: 2.5 hours
  • Group size: Up to 20 participants
  • Languages: English
  • Why go: See the city sparkle after dark as you explore illuminated landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. A local guide shares the history behind each stop.
  • Popular option: Guided Moonlight Tour of Washington DC Monuments
Hop-on hop-off tour bus in front of the U.S. Capitol, Washington DC.

Bus tours

  • Duration: Approx. 4 hours
  • Group size: Up to 25 participants
  • Languages: English
  • Why go: Perfect for first-time visitors, this structured tour covers all the big highlights, including Capitol Hill, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial, with expert commentary.
  • Popular option: Highlights of Washington DC Guided Bus Tour
Tourists biking at night near the Washington Memorial in Washington D.C.

Bike tours

  • Duration: 3 hours
  • Group size: Small groups (up to 12 riders)
  • Languages: English
  • Why go: Ride under the stars past DC’s glowing memorials. Bikes, helmets, and a licensed guide are included, making it a fun and active way to see the city at night.
  • Popular option: Washington DC Night Bike Tour
Washington Monument and Reflecting Pool in Washington DC with visitors walking nearby.

Day trips

  • Duration: Full day (approx. 14–15 hours)
  • Group size: Comfortable coach, with multilingual guides available
  • Languages: English, Spanish
  • Why go: Short on time? This full-day adventure lets you explore not just DC’s iconic sights but also Philadelphia’s historic landmarks, all in one trip.
  • Popular option: NYC to Washington DC & Philadelphia Tour

Highlights covered on guided tours of Washington DC

White House exterior with fountain and gardens, Washington DC.

The White House

The most famous address in America, the White House, is the seat of the US presidency and a must-see in DC. From Pennsylvania Avenue, you’ll get the perfect photo of this iconic landmark.

Abraham Lincoln Memorial with reflecting pool, Washington DC, USA.
United States Capitol building under clear blue sky.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial statue in Washington DC against a blue sky.
Statues of soldiers at Korean War Veterans Memorial, Ohio Drive Southwest, Washington, DC.

Things to keep in mind on your guided tour

Restroom sign with symbols for men, women, and wheelchair accessibility.
  • Restrooms: Most guided bus tours include scheduled restroom stops, and coaches are equipped with climate control for comfort. Bike tours don’t have onboard facilities, but plan stops along the route.
  • Accessibility: Many bus tours (16967) are wheelchair accessible, while bike tours may have restrictions. If accessibility is a concern, it’s best to check in advance with the provider.
  • Onboard amenities: Bus tours typically offer comfortable seating, large windows for sightseeing, and sometimes even phone charging ports. For bike tours helmets, safety lights, and reflective vests are provided.
Person tying purple sneakers next to high heels on wooden floor.
  • Valid photo ID: You will need to show a valid ID during check-in.
  • Comfortable shoes: Expect light to moderate walking at memorials and attractions, so supportive footwear will make your day easier.
  • Weather-appropriate clothing: Summers in DC can be hot and humid, while evenings can get cool. A light jacket or scarf is handy for night tours, and sunscreen or sunglasses are recommended for daytime bike rides.
  • Water bottle: Small bottles are allowed and encouraged, especially in warmer months. Many guides also provide opportunities to refill during the tour.
  • Travel essentials: Bring a small backpack for items like cameras, maps, and snacks, but avoid large bags as some sites have restrictions.
Old couple with electric bikes wearing safety helmets.
  • Stay with your group. Guided tours are designed to follow a set route and pace. Your guide will carefully manage the time to cover all the highlights.
  • Guides are trained to navigate busy areas, keep groups safe, and manage entry points at popular landmarks. Follow your guide’s instructions for a smooth experience.
  • Many sites in Washington DC, particularly Arlington National Cemetery and the war memorials, are solemn places of remembrance. Maintain a respectful silence, avoid disruptive behavior, and show dignity while on the grounds.
  • While photography is welcome at most sites, flash, tripods, and drones are generally not permitted. At Arlington and other sensitive locations, discretion is expected when taking pictures.
  • Comfortable, casual clothing is fine for most tours, but modest attire is encouraged at Arlington. Closed-toe shoes are recommended for bike tours and long walks, while a light jacket or layers will be useful for evening tours.
US Capitol building at sunset, Washington DC, USA.
  • It’s a good idea to book your tour at least a week in advance, especially during peak seasons like spring, when cherry blossoms draw huge crowds, and the busy summer months.
  • Always plan to arrive at the meeting point at least 15 mins early, giving yourself time to check in, meet your guide, and get settled before the tour begins.
  • If you prefer a calmer experience, consider choosing an evening tour, which tends to be less crowded than midday options and offers the bonus of seeing Washington’s landmarks beautifully lit at night.

Frequently asked questions about Washington DC guided tours

What makes a guided tour better than exploring on my own?

A guide gives you the context behind what you’re seeing, so you don’t just admire the monuments, you understand their meaning. Plus, you’ll discover stories and hidden details you’d likely miss on your own.

What happens if I’m late?

Guided tours operate on a schedule, so late arrivals may miss the group. Arrive at least 15 mins early to avoid losing your spot.

Is the guided tour suitable for kids?

Yes. Bus and moonlight tours are family-friendly. Bike tours may be better suited to older children who are comfortable cycling.

How much walking is involved?

Expect light to moderate walking. Bus tours have the least amount of walking involved, while the Arlington tour involves more time on your feet.

Can I explore on my own after the tour?

Definitely. After the guided portion ends, you’re free to continue exploring DC at your own pace.

What are the qualifications of my guide?

All guides are licensed professionals, many of whom have backgrounds in history, politics, or cultural studies.

Will the guide take us inside the monuments?

Most tours focus on the exteriors of monuments and memorials, where guides explain the history and symbolism. Some tours may include timed-entry tickets to places like the Capitol or Arlington, depending on the itinerary.

Do guides answer questions during the tour?

Absolutely, they encourage it. Asking questions is a great way to get deeper stories and tailored insights about the landmarks you’re most interested in.

How big are the tour groups?

Group sizes vary, but most walking and bike tours keep groups small enough to feel personal.

What if I want to spend more time at a stop?

Guides manage the schedule so you see all the highlights, but you can always return on your own after the tour.