Washington DC Small-Group City Tour with National Archives

From$89
5 hours
Washington DC, USA

About this activity

Experience Washington DC's iconic landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, and a scenic Potomac River cruise on this guided small-group tour.

Highlights

  • Explore the U.S. Capitol's historic halls
  • Cruise the Potomac River's scenic waters
  • Visit the Lincoln Memorial's iconic steps
  • See the White House's impressive facade
  • Discover the National Archives' treasures

Full description

Dive into the heart of Washington DC with this engaging small-group tour. Visit the U.S. Capitol, where history unfolds, and enjoy a scenic 1-hour boat cruise along the Potomac River (available seasonally). Marvel at the Lincoln Memorial's grandeur and the White House's iconic facade. This tour offers a comprehensive glimpse into the nation's capital's rich heritage and vibrant culture, all in a comfortable, open-top or glass convertible luxury bus. Perfect for those eager to explore DC's highlights in a single, memorable day.

Included / Excluded

  • Guided tour of Washington DC's landmarks
  • Reserved entry to the U.S. Capitol
  • 1-hour boat cruise along the Potomac River (seasonal)
  • Meals and beverages

Itinerary

1

The tour starts at 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
2

See the Capitol!

Duration: 10 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
3

Outside only

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NO
4

Guided tour of WWII Memorial

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
5

Guided tour of Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
6

Your guide will walk you through The Jefferson Memorial presidential memorial built in Washington, D.C. dedicated to one of the Founding Fathers of the United States, the principal author of the United States Declaration of Independence and the founder of the Democratic-Republican Party.

Duration: 20 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
7

SEASONAL (Oct 1 - Mar 31); The Pentagon City; lunch break & free time.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
8

Guided tour of Korean War Veterans Memorial

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
9

SEASONAL (Apr 1 - Sep 30); in the warmer months, guests enjoy a boat cruise on the Potomac River and can purchase lunch and explore Georgetown.

Duration: 1 hourAdmission: YES
10

See the iconic memorial up close.

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
11

Guided tour of Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE
12

Guided Walking Tour of FDR Memorial

Duration: 15 minAdmission: NOT_APPLICABLE

Meeting point

Start Location

Unknown location

Important information

Know before you book

  • The tour operates rain or shine; dress appropriately for the weather.
  • Confirm your booking details, including date and time, to ensure a smooth experience.
  • Be aware that the boat cruise is seasonal and may not be available during certain months.

Know before you go

  • Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for walking and varying weather conditions.
  • Bring a valid photo ID for entry into the U.S. Capitol and National Archives.
  • Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly, as the boat cruise is seasonal and weather-dependent.

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

  • Stroller Accessible
  • Service Animals Allowed
  • Easy Public Transport
  • Infants Required On Laps

Good to know

  • Involves a moderate amount of walking
  • Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to tour departure for check in and security
  • No food allowed on buses (snacks are fine!)
  • The tour price includes a boat cruise, and tourists will have the opportunity to purchase lunch at one of several waterfront restaurants in the summer

Traveler reviews

4.5
101 reviews
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A great way to experience the best of Washington DC

This is an excellent tour with foot stops at all the mojor government buildings and memorials in Washington DC. There is ample time allowed at each stop to visit and the guide explains everything in great detail. Additionally many other sights of interest are pointed out and explained along the way from the bus. The little boat ride on the Patomac is good and feels safe. Immediately prior to that there is time to buy lunch to go which can then be enjoyed on the boat. On the bus unlimited chilled water is provided and even rain ponchos if needed. The bus is spacious, comfortable and has seat belts that work. We were expertly driven by Cortez who clearly takes grsat pride in his bus and looking after his passengers. A special mention has to go to guide Samuel. What an absolute professional. He knows everything there is to know about Washington DC and its history. He is friendly, amenable and goes out of his way to make sure every guest is well looked after and happy. A brilliant tour, highly recommended.

richardhQ8569BYMay 21, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Sightseeing DC

Well planned out trip of Washington DC. Hit all of the most important monuments. There was enough time to stop and experience each site. Our tour guide Nick was amazing. Along with historical facts offered he made it a pleasant humorous adventure.

laurief323May 1, 2026TRIPADVISOR

The most epic tour ever

The steps at the Lincoln Memorial where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. speech was held and where the crowd gathered was amazing.

Rhonda_SApr 6, 2026VIATOR

5 stars for Joey and Leah

Leah and Joey were amazing guides. It was a chilly day, but they worked together and made it an amazing experience. Would love to book with them again in the fall!

brookesZ1545WZFeb 8, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Great tour - even in the snow!

Nick, our tour guide, and John, our driver were awesome! Our tour was a few days after the January 2026 snowstorm and even though a few monuments were close to inaccessible due to the ice, the guys still made it a great experience. This was our 2nd time taking a DC tour with USA guided tours, and we would definitely go again!

bwfrisardJan 30, 2026TRIPADVISOR

Additional information

Involves a moderate amount of walking Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to tour departure for check in and security No food allowed on buses (snacks are fine!) The tour price includes a boat cruise, and tourists will have the opportunity to purchase lunch at one of several waterfront restaurants in the summer