
I have been living in Washington DC for the past 17 years; it’s a city that I adore, and highly recommend you stop by the nation’s capital whenever you are in the US. While the perception of Washington has already been of a small city, there is plenty to do – from over 70 museums to explore (many are free to enter) to the Mall which houses exceptional neoclassical monuments and historical landmarks. Not to mention the great food scene and tons of cultural events that happen regularly throughout the year.
I have compiled below a list of the tours offered by Viator which I think are a must-do to maximize your time in DC. Most of these tours have a badge of excellence and as I always say in the blogs I write, Viator is an extremely trusted company through which I have booked dozens of experiences and tours in different parts of the world. I highly recommend this website and I hope you have amazing experiences as well.
Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley
What better way to explore Washington DC’s famous monuments than by moonlight? Hop aboard an open-air trolley to learn about the true stories behind Washington’s monuments and the history of the city. This tour will let you take in amazing views of the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the White House, and many other key landmarks including the National World War II Memorial, Library of Congress and Supreme Court. This is a great opportunity to see the monuments illuminated at night, and if you visit during Halloween you’ll be treated to bewitching ghost stories about the spirits who haunt the nation’s capital.
Private Washington DC Guided Tour
This tour is for anyone who wants a private and customized sightseeing tour of Washington DC aboard a luxury SUV. This private tour allows you to choose the departure time as well as customize your itinerary to suit your interests and schedule. Plan to see Washington’s DC popular monuments including the White House, US Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery along with important buildings such as the National Archives, FBI Headquarters and Air and Space Museum. Your knowledgeable guide will entertain you with stories and anecdotes from the places you visit.
Gastronomic Georgetown Food Tour
Georgetown must be the nation’s capital cutest neighborhood with its wide range of shopping and restaurant options. Make sure you are hungry when you join this gastronomical and historical tour of this neighborhood. Learn about Georgetown’s 250 years of history, from its origins as a working class port city to its current status as a trendy neighborhood. This tour will allow you to try a wide selection of the best food offered here – from tacos, to French cuisine to Korean tapas. All tastings are included in the tour price. This is a small-group tour which offers a more personalized experience.
Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon Tour
While there is a lot to do in Washington DC, it will be a shame not to venture out and explore some of the area’s historic surroundings. This five-hour excursion will take you to the candy-colored architecture of Alexandria – including the Masonic Temple and Christ Church. Once you are done visiting Alexandria you will be taken to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s former estate is located only 13 miles from the capital’s center. Here you can walk in the footsteps of Washington as you will walk through the mansion, with entrance tickets to the grounds and gardens included. Fascinating stories and anecdotes will complement the amazing sights you will see during this tour.
DC Ghosts Phantoms of the Potomac Haunted Capital Tour
Who doesn’t love a scary ghost story? Join this 1-hour evening tour of Washington DC that allows a maximum of 20 people per group. This tour will take you to a guided visit of the Treasury Annex, Dolley Madison House, Lafayette Square, and five other locations where you will learn stories about ghost sightings and alleged hauntings. If this wasn’t entertainment enough, this tour will allow you to experience Washington DC’s illuminated at night.
Smithsonian Museum of American History Private Guided Museum Tour
Join this 2.5-hour private tour to get a deeper look at the National Museum of American History. You can choose the schedule and choose for a tur either in the morning or afternoon. Learn about George Washington, the US first president and visit the extensive collection of first ladies’ gowns and many other exciting things that will give you insights into the country’s exciting history.
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Alex
Great suggestions! Will look into them. It is hard to really know which ones are worth it with the daunting number of options. Thank you for narrowing it down!
Caro
AlexThank you, Alex! If you end up taking any of these tours, please add a comment sharing your experience.