Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour
Overview
Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
Board your glamourous, climate-controlled panoramic bus at the U.S. Navy Memorial for one of the best bus tours in Washington DC!
Expanding on our popular Highlights Tour, this six-hour excursion also includes a lunch break and the opportunity to travel through the Tidal Basin.
See the very best of Washington DC in one day! Enjoy guided walks around the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and more! For a unique experience, this tour includes a leisurely seasonal (Apr 1 to Oct 15) cruise on the Potomac River! 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]!
Upgrade to our convertible tour bus for a unique sightseeing experience with an open-air view when weather permits, and a climate-controlled, glass-top roof for comfort during sudden weather changes!
Additional Info
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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
Small carry-on bags are allowed, however it is recommended that you travel lightly. Due to security concerns, the tour operator reserves the right to search any bags or purses you bring on board. Many of the attractions in Washington DC are equipped with metal detectors at the entrances. Traveling without bags or purses is recommended
Due to time restrictions, you cannot go inside any of the monuments, however you can spend about 15-20 minutes at each stop to enjoy up-close views
No food allowed on buses (snacks are fine!)
The boat cruise is seasonal from Apr 1 to Oct 15
Convertible buses switch from open-tops to glass-tops between Oct 15 - Mar 15 due to colder temperatures
If you're driving, there is street parking and garages available near the meeting location, including directly under the Navy Memorial meeting location.
We will meet guests in the front of the Navy Memorial, a large fountain plaza, by the tall navy flags - on Pennsylvania Avenue NW between 7th & 9th St NW. Please note: rideshares tend to bring people to the opposite side of the block.
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 bus available
English-Speaking Live Tour Guide (on and off the bus)
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Lunch
What To Expect
United States Navy Memorial and Naval Heritage Center
Starts/Ends
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center
Guided Walking Tour of the U.S. Capitol Building (outside only)
Options
Discover DC Guided Bus Tour
Duration: 6 hours: 6hrs tour approx
Closed-Top Bus: Fully Guided Day Bus Tour in a Luxury Climate-Controlled Bus. Free Bottled Water. Lunch is Not Included in the Price.
Upgrade: Glass-Top/Convertible
Duration: 6 hours: 6hrs tour approx
Glass-Top Convertible: Small Group Glass Roof Convertible Sprinter Van. Open During the Spring & Summer For Fresh Air!
Reviews
3,098 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Don't Miss This Opportunity to See Important Landmarks with Two Amazing Guides
Anita W,
Jul 11, 2025
- Viator
5.009 July 2025 This Viator tour is organized and well planned. The sites and the routes were perfectly selected to ensure visitors experience the richness of the Nation's capital. Evan, tour guide, is quite knowledgeable and personable in his delivery. He was able to answer and elaborate on questions and comments from tour guests. Responses and explanations were informative and engaging. His information provided opportunities to gather fond memories to share. Iyana, the tour driver, is thoughtful and considerate of visitors' needs. She was very detailed on how she managed the driving route, availability for water, and importance of staying hydrated. She ensure the bus remained close when possible in case it was needed unexpectantly. She was extremely personable and offered to help with picture taking, as was Evan. Evan and Iyana are a good team. They work well together to ensure their guests have a comfortable, memorable and exciting time during the time they are on the tour. Viator is a good touring company. I have used them on other trips and will continue to seek them out.
Best!!
Elizabeth L,
Jul 10, 2025
- Viator
5.00I feel we got a very thorough tour of more than we expected to see. The guides were just amazing. I left my phone in the bathroom at our prior spot and the driver was on it while we toured. Got it back which was going above and beyond. Thank you to you both!!
A must for DC
Jasonc C,
Jul 9, 2025
- Viator
5.00Excellent information given by the tour guide, clear instructions on what they expect from you. We would have never been able to see all the monuments in a day if we didn't go through them
Honest review
Stella D,
Jul 7, 2025
- Viator
2.00I wish to hear more Washington DC history to be told by the guide, more details. The guide didn't seem very engaged
The staff were...
Jim R,
Jul 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00The staff were knowledgeable and entertaining. They were also engaging and enthusiastic. It was an enjoyable experience.
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Operated by USA Guided Tours