Explore Washington DC in One Day: Guided Tour & River Cruise
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Explore Washington DC in just one day with this comprehensive guided sightseeing tour. Starting at the U.S. Navy Memorial, you'll hop aboard a comfortable, climate-controlled panoramic bus that takes you past the city's most iconic landmarks.
Along the way, enjoy guided walks around the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, and memorials like Lincoln, WWII, FDR, and more. The tour also features a seasonal boat cruise on the Potomac River, offering stunning views of the city from the water. During winter months, you'll visit Pentagon City for some relaxed exploration and lunch.
For a more open-air experience, upgrade to the convertible bus, which provides an open-top view when the weather allows, and a glass roof for comfort during sudden changes. This tour is perfect for those wanting to see the best of Washington DC in a single day, with plenty of time to soak in the sights and history.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the Washington DC in One Day tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, giving you a full day of sightseeing without feeling rushed.
What landmarks will I see during the tour?
You'll visit the U.S. Capitol, White House, Lincoln Memorial, WWII Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, and more. Depending on the season, there’s also a boat cruise or a visit to Pentagon City.
Is the tour accessible for all ages and physical fitness levels?
Yes, infants and small children can ride in strollers or prams, and the tour is suitable for all fitness levels.
What’s included in the tour?
The tour includes a boat cruise on the Potomac River (seasonal), an English-speaking live guide, and the option to upgrade to a glass-top bus for better views.
Are meals included?
Lunch is not included in the tour price, but there are opportunities to purchase food during the stop at Pentagon City or during the boat cruise season.
How do I meet the tour group?
Meet at the U.S. Navy Memorial Plaza near the tall white flagpoles on Pennsylvania Avenue, between 7th and 9th Streets, outside the Archives metro station. The tour departs at 10 AM.
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 6 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Boat cruise on the Potomac River (seasonal: April 1 to September 30)
- Upgrade to glass-top bus available
- English-speaking live tour guide (on and off the bus)
Not included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Lunch
Itinerary
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Start/End Point
Meet at the U.S. Navy Memorial Plaza for the tour start and finish.
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U.S. Capitol Building
Guided outside tour of the Capitol.
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White House
Guided outside tour of the White House.
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WWII Memorial
Guided walk around the WWII Memorial.
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Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Guided walk around the Jefferson Memorial.
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FDR Memorial
Guided walk around the FDR Memorial.
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Potomac River Cruise / Pentagon City
Seasonal boat cruise (April 1 - September 30) with optional lunch and Georgetown exploration. In winter months, visit Pentagon City for lunch and free time.
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MLK Memorial
Guided walk around the MLK Memorial.
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Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Guided walk around the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
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Korean War Veterans Memorial
Guided walk around the Korean War Veterans Memorial.
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Iconic Memorials
Close-up view of the most iconic memorials, with extra time to explore.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
For the 10 AM departure of the Discover DC Guided Bus Tour or the upgrade with glass-top or convertible bus, look for the tour greeter near the tall, white flagpoles on Pennsylvania Avenue outside the U.S. Navy Memorial Plaza, between 7th and 9th Streets, outside the Archives metro station.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure.
- 100% refund if cancelled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if cancelled within 24 hours of departure
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or insufficient bookings
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $89.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
