Washington DC Night Tour with Museum Access

From$69
3 hours
Washington DC, USA

About this activity

Experience Washington DC's iconic landmarks illuminated at night, with guided tours and museum access included.

Highlights

  • Illuminated views of the Lincoln Memorial
  • Reserved access to the National Museum of American History
  • Admission to the Washington Monument
  • Guided tour of the World War II Memorial
  • Panoramic vistas from the U.S. Capitol

Full description

Discover the magic of Washington DC after dark on this captivating night bus tour. Traverse the National Mall to witness the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, and the U.S. Capitol bathed in evening lights. Enjoy reserved entry to the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History, allowing you to delve into the nation's rich heritage. Conclude your journey with a visit to the Washington Monument, offering panoramic views of the cityscape. This tour seamlessly blends historical exploration with the enchanting ambiance of the nation's capital at night.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided night bus tour of Washington DC's monuments
  • Reserved entry tickets to two renowned museums
  • Admission to the Washington Monument
  • Meals and beverages during the tour

Itinerary

1

Step back into one of the most dramatic nights in American history on this 2-hour walking tour following the final day of President Abraham Lincoln. Beginning at the former National Hotel at 6th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, guests learn about John Wilkes Booth’s movements on April 14, 1865, while standing outside the very hotel where he stayed in Room 253 and met with co-conspirators. From there, the tour follows Booth’s path along Pennsylvania Avenue toward 10th Street, retracing the route he took just hours before the assassination.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

The experience continues with a stop at Ford's Theatre, where President Lincoln was shot while attending a play that evening.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NO
3

The tour concludes across the street at Petersen House, the boarding house where Lincoln was carried after the shooting and where he died early the next morning on April 15, 1865. A visit of about 20–30 minutes offers a moving look at the room where the president spent his final hours, bringing a powerful close to this unforgettable journey through history.

Duration: 30 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
4

Visit to the Lincoln Memorial, created to honor the legacy of President Abraham Lincoln and symbolizes his leadership in preserving the Union.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: YES
5

Pass by: Pass by the FBI Headquarters building

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Pass by: Pass by the National Archives

Admission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

Arlington House overlooks Arlington National Cemetery and represents the Civil War era that defined Lincoln’s presidency and transformed the nation.

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • Tour operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for the forecasted weather.
  • Photography is permitted; tripods and professional equipment may be restricted.
  • Large bags and backpacks are subject to security checks at museum entrances.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for evening temperatures.
  • Bring a valid ID for museum entry and Washington Monument admission.
  • Parking is limited; consider using public transportation or ride-sharing services.

Cancellation policy

Free cancellation up to 1 days before the activity starts

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Accessibility

  • Infants Required On Laps
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Stroller Accessible

Good to know

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • There will be standing and walking during this tour. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather as much of the tour is outdoors. Umbrellas and layers are recommended.
  • Animal policy: animals are not permitted on tours.

Traveler reviews

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We saw many of the DC...

We saw many of the DC sites and a very thorough narration about Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Dwayne was a great guide, very knowledgeable and answered all our questions while driving us around in a very comfortable tour van. We were given many opportunities to get out and take photos, then dropped off at the theater where we proceeded on a self guided tour.

charMay 21, 2026VIATOR

Disappointing

My family and I took this tour because it included entry to Fords Theatre. When we got to the part of the tour where we were supposed to enter Fords Theatre, we were denied entry due to a special event. Unfortunately, the tour operator denied even a partial refund despite “entry to fords theatre” being listed as “included” in the tour which was scheduled from 11am-1pm. Very disappointing experience.

Jessica_GMay 17, 2026VIATOR

very disappointing

This tour company showed zero willingness to accommodate our being at wrong initial site and let us meet them along the way. Yet they still took our money.

Ann_LMay 16, 2026VIATOR

Wonderfully informative tour

WOW!! What a great tour. Our guide Dwayne was the absolute best, a walking/talking history book! He was an absolute delight -wish we could get him for other tours. Highly recommend this tour!

Michelle_WMay 15, 2026VIATOR

Dwayne was an amazing...

Dwayne was an amazing tour guide!! Very interesting and kept us engaged! The only thing that was a little upsetting was we couldn’t tour the theatre since there was a show. That should have been told to us in the beginning.

Richard_EMay 10, 2026VIATOR

Additional information

All purchases of packages are final. Tickets are not refundable or transferable. Cannot be exchanged for another ticket. Only refundable in the event the site is closed. NOTE: Due to the hours of operation at the attractions, your entry tickets will be valid for use the FOLLOWING day of travel from your night tour. Children must be accompanied by an adult There will be standing and walking during this tour. Please wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather as much of the tour is outdoors. Umbrellas and layers are recommended. Guests may choose to stay on the bus at any stop as desired or ask the tour guide how to modify the amount of walking at any stop. If you purchase an additional tour or ticket: Please ask your tour guide or driver for your upgrade when being checked in. UPGRADE: Optional upgrade available at checkout to include ticket for self-guided entry into the Washington Monument. Tickets will be handed out during your night tour and can be used for the following day of travel.