10 Best Washington DC Tours That Are Worth the Money
Experience the best of Washington DC on a guided tour. These top-rated Washington DC tours are perfect for getting an overview of the country’s history and getting familiar with DC.
From unforgettable monument views to insider information from local guides, these tours are a great way to explore the nation’s capital. Choose from walking, bus, bike, Segway, boat, or specialty tours to see the city’s iconic landmarks, historic neighborhoods, and hidden gems.
TOP PICK: BEST WASHINGTON DC TOURS
This Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Car is the perfect way to see a bunch of DC’s most famous landmarks while listening to a narrated history of the capital. And it’s an eco-friendly way to get around town!
Here are the best tours in Washington DC for everything from seeing iconic monuments to culinary tours.
Best Tours in Washington DC
1. DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart
Tour length: 2 hour | Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
This DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart is a really efficient way to see all the best sights in DC. Plus, it’s eco-friendly!
You’ll ride along with a small group or a private tour to see famous monuments and memorials. Your guide will take you by top DC sights like the White House, Capitol Hill, the Smithsonian museum complex, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and many more.
Courtland was very informative and had great tidbits of insights not found in textbooks. Would recommend for family with kids.
– Eric V. (read more reviews)
This 2 hour driving tour includes an English-speaking guide, transport in an all-electric cart, and a stroll through the FDR, MLK, and Lincoln memorials.
2. Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards
Tour length: 2.5 hour | Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
See the expansive cemetery and Tomb of the Unknown Solder on this Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards.
You’ll be guided through Arlington Cemetery to some of the most important gravesites and memorials, including places dedicated to John F. Kennedy, the USS Maine, Second World War soldier Audie Murphy, and more. Then, you’ll get to see the moving Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Mona, our fantastic tour guide, brought history to life during our walking tour of Arlington. She ensured that we saw all of the major memorials and had prime positioning for the changing of the guard ceremony. She also had an in depth knowledge of the historical significance of Arlington and the important leaders laid to rest in this sacred space.
– Nina W. (read more reviews)
This 2 to 2.5 hour walking tour includes a professional guide who will take you to notable gravesites and get to you the Changing of the Guards on time.
3. Washington DC “See the City” Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour
Tour length: 2.5 hour | Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
This Washington DC Segway Tour is a fun way to see the sights and learn about the nation’s history, without having to walk.
You’ll zip around town to see prominent buildings, historic sights, and monuments. This is a great way to get an overview of the city if you’re short on time or don’t want to do a lot of walking.
Amazing tour of DC with Sherman who was the best guide and proud local!! Recommend to everyone! We hit all the major stops, got to explore at different points and the ongoing commentary via headset was top notch!!
– Nikki W. (read more reviews)
This 2.5 hour Segway tour includes a professional guide, a training session and safety gear, a headset so you can clearly hear your tour guide, over 25 top attractions, and multiple opportunities for photo stops.
4. Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour
Tour length: 3 hour | Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
If you want to see all the best DC monuments without any of the walking, then take this Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour.
You’ll get an up-close view of significant monuments as you ride your bike along an easy, flat route from the National Mall to the Potomac Tidal Basin. You’ll see iconic monuments like the Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial.
I loved our tour guide Joe. He was so knowledgeable and had a great personality. This was by far my favorite thing we did this week while in DC. Taking the bike tour was the BEST WAY to see the monuments and enjoy a leisurely bike ride. Hands down I would highly recommend this tour and via this company
– Jennifer T. (read more reviews)
This 3 hour bike tour includes a knowledgeable guide, a hybrid bike, and a helmet. Equipment is available for both kids and adults.
5. Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour & Neighborhood Walk
Tour length: 3 hour | Rating: 5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
A great way to explore historic Georgetown is on this Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour & Neighborhood Walk.
You’ll head off the beaten path to explore highly-rated local restaurants around Georgetown, including a beloved local deli and an Indian restaurant that’s been going strong for over two decades. You’ll also see hidden landmarks that regular tourists often miss.
Had a great tour with Jacob. We had 4 stops and it was plenty of food. Also enjoyed walking around the neighborhood and learning some interesting history and trivia.
– Eren T. (read more reviews)
This 2.5 to 3.5 hour walking tour includes tastings and one pairing with alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, vegetarian options, and a professional guide to show you around.
6. DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour
Tour length: 3 hour | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
See the city by bus at night on this DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour and avoid the daytime crowds. Plus, you’ll get to see these iconic sights in a whole new light.
You’ll drive by Washington DC’s major attractions as they’re lit up at night. See the Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial all aglow. You’ll travel in a luxurious mini-bus, or you can upgrade for an open/glass-roofed tour bus experience.
Very knowledgeable tour guide. Will definitely do this tour again. The sites at night are definitely different than when you see it during the day. Knowing where we were going and what we were going to see, made the night views even more beautiful.
– Deborah V. (read more reviews)
This 3 hour driving tour includes an English-speaking tour guide, transport on a luxury mini-bus or open/glass-top convertible bus, and a bottle of water.
7. DC National Mall Night Tour with 10 Stops, Reserved Entry Tickets
Tour length: 3 hour | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
Experience DC lit up at night on this National Mall Night Tour. This tour includes photo stops at 10 attractions and the option to upgrade for additional reserved entry tickets.
You’ll hop aboard an air-conditioned coach and drive along the National Mall, learning about each site you pass along the way. You can hop off at different photo stops for unique nighttime photos in front of iconic monuments and memorials.
Great experience. Monuments at night were beautiful. Great way to see all the monuments in one tour. Would highly recommend! Godfrey our tour driver was extremely helpful. Sallie our guide had a wealth of knowledge about all things DC and was great!
– Leslie H. (read more reviews)
This 3 hour driving tour passes by 20+ iconic site, makes a photo stop at 10 attractions, includes an bottle of water, a professional tour guide, and has the option to upgrade for timed entry tickets to the Washington Monument, the Air & Space Museum, or the African American Museum.
8. Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour
Tour length: 6 hour | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
For a full-day tour of the city, opt for this Washington DC in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour.
You’ll get a well-rounded tour that includes riding on a luxury coach; guided walks around the US Capitol Building, Washington Monument, and Lincoln Memorial; a guide who knows a ton about the city; and a seasonal boat cruise on the Potomac River.
You will learn a lot in a short amount of time. Absolutely worth it. I recommend doing the glass ceiling van. You get to see everything clearly. Britney the tour guide is kind and sweet. She is passionate about history and making sure you get your monies worth. Whitney the driver was friendly a safe driver and kept us on schedule the entire time. They are a great team.
– Barbara D. (read more reviews)
This 6 hour combination bus, walking, and seasonal boat tour includes an English-speaking tour guide both on and off the bus, an option to upgrade to a glass-top bus, and a boat cruise on the Potomac River from April to October.
9. Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress
Tour length: 3 hour | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
Learn all about America’s Legislative and Judicial branches of government on this Small-Group Guided Tour of the US Capitol and Library of Congress.
You’ll be guided through the inside of the US Capitol Building for a tour of the rotunda, crypt, and old House chambers. Then you’ll head across to the Library of Congress, one of the most beautiful buildings in DC, to see the Main Reading Room, a portion of Jefferson’s original library, and the Great Hall.
This was a great tour of the Capital and Library of Congress. Our guide, Lauren, was very knowledgeable and entertaining. I would highly recommend this tour.
– Kevin L. (read more reviews)
This 3 hour walking tour includes a small group size for a personalized experience, a professional guide, and reserved access to the Capitol and Library of Congress.
10. DC Monuments with River Cruise, Cherry Blossoms, Entry Tickets
Tour length: 6 hour | Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars | Check rates & availability
See the most of DC during the spring on this DC Monuments with River Cruise, Cherry Blossoms Tour. There is also the option to upgrade for admission to one of the city’s top museums.
You’ll see famous landmarks and monuments while onboard a deluxe coach, and seasonally aboard a river boat. This tour stops at the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and more. It’s a great tour to take to see the cherry blossoms in the spring!
Such a fun way to learn about all the monuments and important places in DC. It was also fun being given some free time to check stuff out on your own.
– Lina S. (read more reviews)
This 6 hour combination driving and boat tour includes 10+ stops, driving past 100+ sights, time for lunch on your own at Georgetown Washington Harbor or The Wharf depending on season, a bonus stop at Jefferson & Eisenhower Memorials during the fall and winter, and a professional tour guide. You can upgrade to include entry to Washington Monument, the Air & Space Museum, or the African American Museum.
DC Tours FAQ
What is the best way to tour Washington DC?
The best way to tour Washington DC, depends on your interests and how much time you have.
– Walking tours are great for exploring iconic neighborhoods and historic sites up close.
– Bus tours cover more ground and are ideal if you want to see multiple landmarks efficiently.
– Bike and Segway tours offer a fun, active way to explore, while boat tours provide a unique perspective from the Potomac River.
– For flexibility, hop-on, hop-off buses allow you to explore at your own pace.
What tours are worth it in DC?
Tours that are worth it in DC offer unique experiences and expert insights you wouldn’t get on your own.
– Walking tours of the National Mall, Capitol Hill, or Georgetown provide rich history and hidden details.
– Nighttime monument tours showcase DC’s landmarks beautifully lit up.
– Specialty tours, like museum guided tours, political history tours, and African American heritage tours, offer deeper context.
– Boat tours on the Potomac River and food tours in neighborhoods like U Street or Dupont Circle add variety to your visit.
– Hop-on, hop-off buses are also great for first-time visitors.
What is the best day to tour Washington DC?
Weekdays are the best days to tour Washington DC, especially Tuesday through Thursday. Popular attractions like the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and government buildings (Capitol, White House) are less crowded than on weekends.
If you’re visiting in spring or fall, aim for midweek to avoid peak tourist traffic. Early mornings and evenings are also great times to explore with fewer crowds.
Is there a Hop-on, Hop-off tour in Washington DC?
Yes, Washington DC, has several hop-on, hop-off bus tours. Companies like Big Bus Tours and Old Town Trolley offer routes that stop at major landmarks, including the National Mall, the White House, the Capitol, and Arlington National Cemetery. These tours provide flexibility, allowing you to explore at your own pace while learning from onboard narration.
Save on Washington DC’s Top Attractions
Want to save big on Washington DC’s top attractions? With the Washington DC Sightseeing Pass, you can save up to 60% on the cost of entrance tickets to museums, tours, and attractions all around the city!
Visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover hidden gems handpicked by local experts. With one price and one pass, you have everything you need right on your phone. This is the perfect pass for visiting Washington DC!
Where to Stay in Washington DC
Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Washington DC, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.
- Where We Stayed: Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center or the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
- Top Hotel: The Hay-Adams
- Great Value: Phoenix Park Hotel
- Unique Stay: Unique DC Row House Near Historic H Street
Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center
We enjoyed our stay at the Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center when attending an event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.
This hotel has a great location. It’s just on the edge of Chinatown and is within easy walking distance to the National Mall and all the tourist hot spots. There are plenty of restaurant options and nightlife nearby.
Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
We love the location of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf, though the hotel’s customer service could use some work.
The Wharf is a great spot to be for beautiful waterfront views and lots of dining and nightlife. It’s also only a 10-15 minute walk from two different Metro stations, and it’s really easy to get to and from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.
More Things to Do in Washington DC
Explore even more of the nation’s capital! Check out these other top tips for visiting Washington DC.
- 45+ Best Things to Do in Washington DC
- 27 Free Things to Do in Washington DC
- 21 Best Restaurants in Washington DC
- 12 Best Washington DC Bars, from Rooftops to Political Hangouts
- 11 Amazing Washington DC Hotels for the Perfect Stay
- Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
- 4 Best Rooftop Bars at The Wharf in Washington DC
- Visiting the Smithsonian Castle in Washington DC
- 6 Best Restaurants in Chinatown DC
- One Day in Alexandria, Virginia: Day Trip from Washington DC
- One Day in Baltimore, Maryland: Day Trip from Washington DC
Ready to visit Washington DC? Plan your trip with these tips.
- Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner, my favorite flight search engine.
- Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels in Washington DC using Hotels.com.
- Start Packing: Check out my packing list resources so you’re prepared for your trip.
- Explore DC in a New Way: Enjoy a Mystery Picnic in Washington DC to discover more of the city.
Cheers!
Paige
Which of these Washington DC tours will you take? Let me know in the comments!
