VIP Best of DC with US Capitol + National Archives Reserved Entry
Overview
Available languages
8 hours 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
Get the presidential treatment with the most comprehensive Washington DC day tour! The tour includes reserved access to the National Archives Building and the U.S. Capitol Building! For smaller groups, fresh air & uninterrupted views, upgrade to our convertible tour bus!
Your tour includes guided stops at the White House (outside only), the National World War II and I Memorials, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial.
After lunch, summer brings the opportunity for a boat ride through Georgetown and the DC Waterfront. The tour price includes a complimentary boat ride, and you will have the opportunity to purchase lunch at one of several waterfront restaurants. In winter, we get to explore the Kennedy Center for lunch where we can see exhibits and galleries, stunning views from the terrace and shop in the gift shops [show your ticket for a discount]!
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Walking is involved to get an up-close look at the monuments (comfortable shoes are recommended)
Strollers may not be accommodated on tour
Security restrictions at the US Capitol and National Archives Buildings prevent any food or drinks being brought through security
During peak season, security lines are long, and as such, arriving ahead of time is highly encouraged
Tour Departure Times Are Subject to Change Due to Local Traffic Conditions
Please Arrive at the Meeting Point No Later Than 8:15 AM For Check-In
No food allowed on buses (snacks are fine!)
The tour price includes a boat cruise, and tourists will have the opportunity to purchase lunch at one of several waterfront restaurants in the summer
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Boat Cruise on the Potomac River (Seasonal: April 1 to October 15)
Upgrade to Glass-Top/Open-Top Convertible Bus Available
Reserved Entry to the U.S. Capitol Building
Tickets to the National Archives Building
English-Speaking Live Tour Guide (on and off the bus)
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Lunch
What To Expect
U.S. Capitol
Reserved entry to the U.S. Capitol Building - the centerpiece of the capital city!
White House
When arriving at the White House (outside only), you will see the Executive Residence of the President and his family, as well as the Eisenhower Executive Office Building. This stop also includes a walk through the Elipse, otherwise known as the South Lawn.
Options
Standard Luxury Tour Bus
8:30 am Departure: Closed-top luxury bus with a designated driver and a tour guide
Upgrade: Panoramic Glass Top
Glass-Top Convertible Bus: Upgrade in a stunning vehicle with an arched glass panel retractable roof. Open during the summer for fresh air! Fits 15
Reviews
2,386 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Finale of two week travel vacation
Daniel J,
Jun 28, 2025
- Viator
5.00The expense was worth it for me. This was my first ever visit to Washington and to take another tour would not have brought the necessary richness to my trip. I very much needed all of the aspects of Washington that I saw.
Nick was AMAZING great...
Madison B,
Jun 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00Nick was AMAZING great tour for a great price. Hits all the major spots in one day. Highly recommend.
Highlights of DC
Ray C,
Jun 26, 2025
- Viator
5.00I was very pleased with this tour. We visited the major monuments (Lincoln, Jefferson, FDR, MLK), had a nice cruise on the Georgetown waterfront that highlighted important areas in DC, the Capitol, and National Archives. Sam, our tour guide, was knowledgeable, friendly, and funny. I would encourage you to attend this tour if you want to see historical places in DC.
Great tour!
Colleen G,
Jun 24, 2025
- Viator
5.00Absolutely great! Sam was our guide & Douglas our driver, both great. We learned so much & they never rushed us, answered questions. We had an extremely hot day & they were great providing endless water. Definitely recommend!
Book this tour!!! 5 stars for Reid and James!!
Rachel H,
Jun 23, 2025
- Viator
5.00Amazing day spent with Reid and James!! I booked this tour specifically for starting our day at The Capital and ending at the National Archives. Reid was an amazing tour guide - he handled the microphone issues with humor but he hardly needed it. He was chock full of historical tidbits that kept us entertained both on-site and en route. James navigated the DC traffic and road construction like a pro... so you don't have to!! This tour is well worth the money! You will not be sorry. We had over 19,000 steps in for the day by the time we walked back to our hotel so wear comfortable shoes but be prepared to enjoy the day!! Every guide we met throughout the day with this company was top notch and friendly.
Related Experiences
Operated by USA Guided Tours