Top Washington DC Day Trips
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At the heart of the eastern seaboard, DC is an ideal base for seeing some of the US’ most fascinating cities and historic sites. Whether you want to step back in time or visit a city that never sleeps, here are our top picks for day trips from DC.
Arlington, VA — 5 miles (8 km) away
With military memorials and long lines of gravestones, Arlington National Cemetery is this city’s most important and moving destination, but visitors to Arlington can also stop by the Pentagon, headquarters of the United States Department of Defense.
Mount Vernon & Alexandria, VA — 16 miles (26 km) & 8 miles (13 km) away
Martha and George Washington lived on an elegant plantation by the Potomac River known as Mount Vernon, and visiting is a glimpse of 18th-century life—tours of the estate explore the President’s rye distillery, home, and slave quarters. Just upstream from Mount Vernon, Old Town Alexandria is full of Revolutionary-era landmarks and architecture in a quaint, walkable downtown.
Gettysburg, PA — 87 miles (140 km) away
Visit the site of a legendary Civil War battle on a trip to Gettysburg National Military Park. The battlefield is now a peaceful landscape of rolling fields, but the fighting is remembered in a series of monuments, museum exhibits, and a 360-degree cyclorama painted in vivid colors.
New York City, NY — 226 miles (364 km) away
The Big Apple's skyscrapers and boroughs need no introduction and are a quick trip from DC by plane or a longer day excursion by rail. Bus tours, guided tours, and attraction passes are great ways to get your bearings as you spend the day shopping 5th Avenue, exploring NYC highlights, or cruising to the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge.
63 results | All Washington DC Tours

Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria Day Trip from Washington DC
Explore some of the most famous landmark locations around Washington, DC on this half-day historical sightseeing tour. Travel to Mount Vernon, George Washington's popular plantation in Virginia and one of the nation’s most beloved historic sites. Learn about his life and tour his home of more than 40 years. Then enjoy a bus trip around Old Town Alexandria. See the many historic 17th- and 18th-century homes, hear colorful stories about this founding father and discover little known facts about all the monuments, statues and buildings in the area.
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From
USD99.00
From
USD99.00

Mount Vernon Day Tour from Washington DC
Visit George Washington’s historic home and estate with a 6-hour tour of Mount Vernon from Washington, D.C. Get a glimpse of the President’s life and work as you explore an elegant mansion furnished with period antiques and Washington’s personal belongings. Browse education exhibits at the onsite museum, and visit the tomb where George and Martha Washington were buried. Learn about the legacy of slavery at Mount Vernon in the slaves’ quarters, then tour the beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds before returning to D.C.
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From
USD99.00
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USD99.00

BEST Gettysburg Historic Day Tour from Washington DC
Dive deeper into US history when you embark on this day trip from Washington DC to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Head north from the nation’s capital to Gettysburg National Military Park to learn about the Civil War and the 1863 battle that took place on those grounds. Watch a short film and then explore downtown Gettysburg before heading back down to Washington DC.
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From
USD261.00
From
USD261.00

Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon Tour
Step back in time to when George Washington was founding the United States when you take this tour of his former home, Mount Vernon, and Old Town Alexandria. See the 18th- and 19th-century buildings of Alexandria, including the Masonic Memorial dedicated to the first president. Then, tour the former estate of George Washington where you can learn about the story of his life and watch historic reenactments.
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From
USD84.00
From
USD84.00

BEST Luray Caverns and Shenandoah Skyline Drive All-Day Tour
Pack two of Virginia’s natural must-sees into one full-day excursion with this guided tour of Luray Caverns and Shenandoah National Park’s gorgeous Skyline Drive. In Luray’s limestone caves, you’ll explore stalactites and other geologic formations before hitting the road to take in the spectacular views of Shenandoah National Park along the Skyline Drive.
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From
USD166.00
From
USD166.00

Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley
Explore the famous monuments and memorials of Washington DC by moonlight on this narrated sightseeing tour. Hop aboard an open-air trolley and enjoy an educational and entertaining history of the nation’s capital while traveling past each point of interest. Take in the stunning views of an illuminated Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the White House, and many other landmarks. This is a truly unique look at the iconic monuments of Washington DC by night.
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From
USD59.96
From
USD59.96

Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour
Experience the sights and sounds of Washington, DC in one day on this guided walking and riding sightseeing tour around the nation’s capital. Visit the city’s historic, iconic landmarks and monuments, like the White House, the United States Capitol, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Lincoln Memorial. See and learn about the memorials of famous American leaders who helped shape the United States, like Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, and Martin Luther King, Jr., to name a few. Includes a seasonal Potomac River cruise.
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From
USD89.00
From
USD89.00

Day or Night Grand Tour of Washington DC with Stops at 8+ Sites
Get a panoramic look at Washington DC on this 4-hour Half Day sightseeing tour that provides a comprehensive introduction to the United States capital and its historical and cultural landmarks. Listen to live narration as you see dozens of attractions, such as Lincoln Memorial, the exterior of the White House, Washington Monument and the National Mall, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Smithsonian buildings. Tour stops at 8 top Attractions including White House, US Capitol, Franklin Roosevelt Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, and Nurses Memorial.
Bonus: Upgrade option available at checkout for those who would like to extend their half-day city hour into an 8-hour full day guided city tour including a visit to George Washington's Mount Vernon.
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From
USD59.00
From
USD59.00

Big Bus Washington DC Open Top Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Discover the most popular sights in Washington, DC on this relaxing hop-on hop-off bus tour. Drive past many of the top attractions in the nation’s capital — including the White House, the Washington Monument, the National Mall, historic Georgetown, and Arlington National Cemetery, and choose where you want to get off and explore in more detail. Select a 1- or 2-day pass, then hop on at any of the stops on two different routes and get to know the city with an audio commentary. The 2-day Deluxe option includes a Night Tour.
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From
USD54.00
From
USD54.00

Best of DC Plus US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry
Beat the long entrance lines and experience some of the most popular attractions in Washington, DC like an insider on this full-day sightseeing tour. Enjoy priority entry into the United States Capitol Building, the home of Congress. Then see the city’s most famous landmarks and monuments, like the White House, the Lincoln Memorial and more. End your tour with a visit to the National Archives Building, where the original Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution are on display.
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From
USD129.00
From
USD129.00

DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart
Explore the famous monuments and war memorials of Washington, DC on this small-group or private sightseeing tour. Hop aboard a special eCruiser vehicle and enjoy an educational and entertaining narrated history of our nation’s capital. Get a glimpse of the White House and travel around and through Capitol Hill, the Smithsonian museum complex, plus a plethora of famous memorials and monuments — like the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument — and many other hotspots. This is a great way to see many of DC’s most famous landmarks.
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From
USD77.51
Price varies by group size
From
USD77.51
Price varies by group size

DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour
Ride a luxury mini-coach past major landmarks on this night bus tour of Washington DC. Gaze at floodlit memorials and monuments, such as the magnificent Lincoln Memorial and the glow of the Jefferson Memorial reflected in the Tidal Basin. After this sightseeing tour, you’ll understand why the nation’s capital is considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities at night.
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From
USD58.00
From
USD58.00

Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress
Go to the heart of America's Legislative and Judicial branches of government on a small-group tour of Capitol Hill that explores the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress. This tour goes inside each destination for a guided tour, and highlights include reserved-entry at the U.S. Capitol with a guide to help bring Capitol Hill's fascinating politics and history to life.
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From
USD89.00
From
USD89.00

3-Hour DC Nighttime Monuments Guided Sightseeing Bus Tour
Head out after dark to see the iconic monuments of Washington, DC, lit up for the night. This evening tour takes you on a scenic ride past the Capitol, the Washington Monument, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and other sites. This tour combines a ride in a tour vehicle with some stops where you'll get out to walk for a closer look. Learn about the history of the sites and ask plenty of questions.
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From
USD68.00
From
USD68.00

Washington DC Hop-On Hop-off Trolley Tour with 15 Stops
Take a hop-on hop-off Washington DC trolley tour to explore the nation’s capital at your own pace. The route encompasses the city’s top attractions, including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and more. Just hop off at any stop when you want to explore, and then hop back on the trolley to continue around the city. When booking, select a 1- or 2-day pass, according to your schedule.
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From
USD49.96
From
USD49.96

George Washington's Mount Vernon & Old Alexandria Half-Day Guided Tour from DC
Venture beyond Washington DC city limits—and explore some of the nation’s key historical landmarks—on this half-day coach tour. Pick between morning and afternoon departure times, and set off via the George Washington Memorial Parkway: you’ll spy landmarks like the Robert E. Lee Childhood Home, George Washington Masonic National Memorial, and Alexandria’s Christ Church. Upon arrival, go for a self-led audio tour of Mount Vernon’s grounds and museum.
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From
USD99.00
From
USD99.00

Best Customized and Private Guided Tours of Washington, DC
Have only a short amount of time to explore the nation’s capital? This private tour lets you customize the itinerary to fit your schedule—and to cater to your interests. Pick between half- and full-day durations, meet your guide directly at your hotel, and travel in the comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle. You can see sights like Arlington National Cemetery, the US Capitol, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and much more.
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From
USD495.00
per group
From
USD495.00
per group

Glass-Top or Open-Top Convertible Bus Tour of DC
Make the most of your trip to the US national capitol with this 3.5-hour SkyVue convertible tour of the Washington DC area. From the comfort of a SkyVue vehicle, take in panoramic views as you drive to some of the most well-known spots on America’s east coast. Stop to explore the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, US Marine Corps War Memorial, and US Air Force Memorial. Plus visit Maryland’s National Harbor, and choose to take a ride on the 180-foot (54.9-meter) Capitol Wheel (own expense).
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From
USD99.00
From
USD99.00

Full-Day Tour of Washington DC with Mount Vernon & Old Alexandria
See Washington DC’s top historical highlights in one day—and continue to George Washington’s former estate, Mount Vernon—on this comprehensive tour. Leave the driving to someone else, and hop aboard a comfortable coach in the morning: view landmarks like the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial, and make quick stops at the White House, US Capitol, and more. Then, head to Mount Vernon for a self-guided audio tour of the estate.
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From
USD158.00
From
USD158.00

Private Tour of Washington DC
Explore the highlights of Washington D.C. during this flexible private tour. Pick your itinerary and tour duration, adapted to your travel schedule. Visit iconic sights like the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, or the Arlington National Cemetery with a professional archaeologist and cultural heritage specialist. Hotel pickup is included.
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From
USD75.00
Price varies by group size
From
USD75.00
Price varies by group size

Electric Scooter Day Tour
BiPartisan Tour Company offers the newest tours in DC and the only electric scooter tour of its kind in the country! Our scooters have huge tires compared to other scooters out there, providing a smooth, stable ride, for your one-of-a-kind fun.
These amazing adult scooters provide a comfort level like no other, casual like a beach cruiser, but one might also feel like they’re floating on air because our big wheel scooters absorb everything.
With all the wide sidewalks and bike paths, the National Mall in DC is perfect for your scooter experience. The oversized tires are perfect for gravel paths and smooth as butter on pavement.
Classic handlebars provide a very natural upright standing position. The larger frame and wheels can support bigger riders with ease, but with a wide footplate, many guests can ride with both feet side by side.
These big wheel scooters are pretty much the perfect blend of low impact athletic awesomeness, cutting edge technology, and stunning design!
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From
USD79.00
From
USD79.00

Mount Vernon Historical Walking Tour with Transportation from DC
Discover the place that President George Washington called home on a 5-hour tour to Mount Vernon. Relax and enjoy the scenery as provided transportation takes you from the capital into the countryside. Take a guided tour inside the mansion, then explore the 500 acre grounds independently and at your own pace. During the return trip to the city, stop at Christ Church in Alexandria, where Washington attended sermons.
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From
USD99.00
From
USD99.00

BEST Washington D.C. 1-Day City Tour
1. Explore the three branches of the US government: the US Capitol, the White House.
2. Pay tribute to visit the Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
3. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, explore more culture and history.
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From
USD124.50
From
USD124.50

Private Wine Tour Transportation
Benefit from a customized itinerary and personalized attention on this private wine tour from Washington DC. You won't have to worry about navigation or choosing a designated driver; all transportation from the DC area is provided to wineries in Leesburg, Virginia. You and your private party can pick any three wineries you'd like to visit, where you can embark on tours and tastings.
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From
USD699.00
per group
From
USD699.00
per group
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