Hop-on Hop-off Washington DC Bus Tours

All top attractions covered
All top attractions covered
Regular Schedule. Unlimited rides
Regular Schedule. Unlimited rides
Last minute availability. Instant confirmation.
Last minute availability. Instant confirmation.
























Open-top tour bus near Washington Monument, Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour.
Group taking a selfie in front of a Big Bus Tours vehicle during Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour.
Big Bus tour in front of the US Capitol, Washington DC.
Tourists enjoying Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Washington DC.
Open-top Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing a historic building.
Tourists on open-top bus viewing Washington Monument, Washington DC.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Yellow water taxi on Potomac River with Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument in background.
Yellow water taxi on Potomac River with cherry blossoms in Washington DC.
Yellow water taxi on the Potomac River with Washington DC skyline in the background.
Open-top tour bus near Washington Monument, Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour.
Group taking a selfie in front of a Big Bus Tours vehicle during Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour.
Big Bus tour in front of the US Capitol, Washington DC.
Tourists enjoying Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Washington DC.
Open-top Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing a historic building.
Tourists on open-top bus viewing Washington Monument, Washington DC.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Yellow water taxi on Potomac River with Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument in background.
Yellow water taxi on Potomac River with cherry blossoms in Washington DC.
Yellow water taxi on the Potomac River with Washington DC skyline in the background.
Open-top tour bus near Washington Monument, Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour.
Group taking a selfie in front of a Big Bus Tours vehicle during Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour.
Big Bus tour in front of the US Capitol, Washington DC.
Tourists enjoying Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Washington DC.
Open-top Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing a historic building.
Tourists on open-top bus viewing Washington Monument, Washington DC.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Yellow water taxi on Potomac River with Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument in background.
Yellow water taxi on Potomac River with cherry blossoms in Washington DC.
Yellow water taxi on the Potomac River with Washington DC skyline in the background.
3.9(434)

Big Bus: Washington DC Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Sunset Tour

from
$49
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

Flexible duration
Transfers included
Routes
TOTAL DURATION1 hour 50 minutes
FREQUENCYEvery 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
FIRST DEPARTUREUnion Station at 9:30 AM
LAST DEPARTUREUnion Station at 4:30 PM
Timeline
Map

1

Union Station

Get direction

3 attractions

2

US Capitol at Garfield Circle

Get direction

3 attractions

3

Air & Space Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

4

L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

5

The Wharf & Potomac Boat Cruise

Get direction

3 attractions

6

Washington Monument West

Get direction

3 attractions

7

Bureau of Engraving & Holocaust Musuem

Get direction

3 attractions

8

Jefferson Memorial

Get direction

2 attractions

9

FDR and MLK Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

10

Lincoln Memorial & Korean War Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

11

Lincoln Memorial North & Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

12

Arlington Cemetery

Get direction

3 attractions

13

World War II Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

14

Washington Monument East

Get direction

3 attractions

15

Natural History Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

16

City Center & Chinatown

Get direction

3 attractions

17

The White House & Willard Hotel

Get direction

3 attractions

Explore DC's iconic sights at your own pace & see the capital transform as the sun sets.

  • Zip through landmarks or linger at leisure, the 24/48/72-hour Washington DC hop-on hop-off bus tour fits your style – the capital's yours to conquer.
  • Hop on and off as you please along the 17 stops on the Red Loop as buses run every 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Opt for a 48-hour pass to go on a 2-hour Sunset Tour, take a live 2-hour guided walking tour of Arlington Cemetery, and get great offers!
  • Hop on a double-decker bus, grab those headphones, and let the city's history unfold in 5 languages. Sightseeing just got exciting, right?
  • As an Authorized National Park Service concessioner, get an up-close view of top spots like the White House, Korean War Memorial, and Washington Monument.

Explore DC's iconic sights at your own pace & see the capital transform as the sun sets.

  • Zip through landmarks or linger at leisure, the 24/48/72-hour Washington DC hop-on hop-off bus tour fits your style – the capital's yours to conquer.
  • Hop on and off as you please along the 17 stops on the Red Loop as buses run every 15 to 20 minutes.
  • Opt for a 48-hour pass to go on a 2-hour Sunset Tour, take a live 2-hour guided walking tour of Arlington Cemetery, and get great offers!
  • Hop on a double-decker bus, grab those headphones, and let the city's history unfold in 5 languages. Sightseeing just got exciting, right?
  • As an Authorized National Park Service concessioner, get an up-close view of top spots like the White House, Korean War Memorial, and Washington Monument.

Inclusions

  • 24/48/72-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
  • Access to Red Loop
  • Self-guided walking tour of Arlington Cemetery
  • Bike rental offer (book 1 hour, get 1 free)
  • 2-hour guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery (based on option selected)
  • 2-hour sunset tour with 25% off (based on option selected)
  • Morning shuttle transfers from Mayflower, Hilton & Marriott to stop #1 Union Station (based on option selected)
  • Discounts at I Love DC Gifts, Artechouse, International Spy Museum Store & Unlimited Biking (based on option selected)
  • Free commemorative Oval Office photo from White House Gifts (based on option selected)
  • Pre-recorded audio commentary in English, French, German, Spanish & Brazilian Portuguese (on the bus)
  • Exclusive drop-offs close to monuments
  • Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking

HOHO tour
Please click here for a detailed route map and boarding points.
You can join the tour at any stop and hop on and off for the duration of your ticket.
Red Loop

  • First bus: 9:30am from stop #1 (Union Station)
  • Last bus: 5:30pm from stop #1 (Union Station)
  • Frequency: Every 15 to 20 mins
  • Popular stops: Natural History Museum, The White House & Willard Hotel, Air & Space Museum

2-hour Sunset tour
Until Sep 2, 2025

  • Departure: 7pm from Stop 1 (Union Station)

From Sep 3, 2025

  • Departure: 6:30pm from Stop 1 (Union Station)

Hottel shuttle transfer

  • Departure: 9:20am from Mayflower Hotel, 9:30am from Washington Hilton & 9:45am from Georgetown Marriott
  • The buses are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Your safety comes first so visitors with mobility issues are restricted on the upper decks.
  • Due to restrictions on the bus, pets (except ADA service animals)are not allowed onboard.
  • The tour remains closed on Independence Day (Jul 4), Oct 29 & Christmas (Dec 25).
  • The Sunset Tour is a non-stop bus tour, and not a hop-on hop-off service.
  • Specific details related to the add-ons in your tickets like walking tours will be shared post-booking.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing the Lincoln Memorial.
U.S. Capitol building at dusk viewed from a tour bus during a Big Bus 2-hour night tour.
Tourists on a night bus tour photographing the illuminated World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Night view of Jefferson Memorial from a Big Bus tour in Washington, D.C.
Washington D.C. night skyline with Washington Monument and Capitol Building on Big Bus tour route.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Tourists enjoying Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Washington DC.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing the Lincoln Memorial.
U.S. Capitol building at dusk viewed from a tour bus during a Big Bus 2-hour night tour.
Tourists on a night bus tour photographing the illuminated World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Night view of Jefferson Memorial from a Big Bus tour in Washington, D.C.
Washington D.C. night skyline with Washington Monument and Capitol Building on Big Bus tour route.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Tourists enjoying Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Washington DC.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing the Lincoln Memorial.
U.S. Capitol building at dusk viewed from a tour bus during a Big Bus 2-hour night tour.
Tourists on a night bus tour photographing the illuminated World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C.
Night view of Jefferson Memorial from a Big Bus tour in Washington, D.C.
Washington D.C. night skyline with Washington Monument and Capitol Building on Big Bus tour route.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Tourists enjoying Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tour in Washington DC.
NEW

Big Bus: Washington DC Sunset Bus Tour

from
$49
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

2 hr
Guided tour

Experience Washington D.C.'s iconic memorials sparkle under the twilight.

  • As day yawns into the night, Washington DC transforms! Join the 2-hour sunset bus tour to uncover the city's captivating evening energy.
  • The Black Loop route takes you on a non-stop ride along the city's most iconic landmarks revealing DC's softer side in the golden glow of dusk.
  • Get the best of both worlds: live guides on weekends and digital commentary on weekdays, making every tour a fun-filled history dive.
  • Step into history as you pass popular spots like the Lincoln Memorial, where MLK Jr delivered his iconic speech, or the White House.

Experience Washington D.C.'s iconic memorials sparkle under the twilight.

  • As day yawns into the night, Washington DC transforms! Join the 2-hour sunset bus tour to uncover the city's captivating evening energy.
  • The Black Loop route takes you on a non-stop ride along the city's most iconic landmarks revealing DC's softer side in the golden glow of dusk.
  • Get the best of both worlds: live guides on weekends and digital commentary on weekdays, making every tour a fun-filled history dive.
  • Step into history as you pass popular spots like the Lincoln Memorial, where MLK Jr delivered his iconic speech, or the White House.

Inclusions

  • 2-hour sunset tour of Washington DC
  • English-speaking guide (from Fri to Sun until Sep 2)
  • Pre-recorded commentary in English, French, German, Spanish & Brazilian Portuguese
  • Complimentary headphones
  • Authorized National Park Service Concessioner
  • Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking
  • Free child (aged 2 and under) tickets

Exclusions

  • Hop-on hop-off service

Please click here for a detailed route map and boarding points.

Black Loop

  • Departure: 7pm from stop #1 (Union Station)
  • Duration: 2 hours
  • Frequency: Once every evening
  • The buses are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Your safety comes first so visitors with mobility issues are restricted on the upper decks.
  • Due to restrictions on the bus, pets (except ADA service animals)are not allowed onboard.
  • The tour remains closed on Independence Day (Jul 4), Oct 29 & Christmas (Dec 25).
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Hop-on hop-off tour bus in front of the U.S. Capitol, Washington DC.
US Capitol Building with dome and American flag, Washington, DC.
Tour bus near Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument, Washington DC.
Tourists on a Washington DC hop-on hop-off bus with the Capitol Building in view.
Washington Monument with flags, Washington DC, under clear blue sky.
Hop-on hop-off tour bus in front of the U.S. Capitol, Washington DC.
US Capitol Building with dome and American flag, Washington, DC.
Tour bus near Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument, Washington DC.
Tourists on a Washington DC hop-on hop-off bus with the Capitol Building in view.
Washington Monument with flags, Washington DC, under clear blue sky.
Hop-on hop-off tour bus in front of the U.S. Capitol, Washington DC.
US Capitol Building with dome and American flag, Washington, DC.
Tour bus near Jefferson Memorial and Washington Monument, Washington DC.
Tourists on a Washington DC hop-on hop-off bus with the Capitol Building in view.
Washington Monument with flags, Washington DC, under clear blue sky.
NEW

Old Town Trolley: Washington DC Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour

from
$47.95
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

Flexible duration
Guided tour
Routes
TOTAL DURATION90 minutes
FREQUENCYEvery 30 minutes
FIRST DEPARTUREUnion Station at 9:00 AM
LAST DEPARTUREUnion Station at 4:00 PM
Timeline
Map

1

Union Station

Get direction

3 attractions

2

National Japanese American Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

3

U.S. Capitol

Get direction

3 attractions

4

Smithsonian Air & Space Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

5

The Wharf - Boarding for Water Taxi Boat Cruise

Get direction

3 attractions

6

International Spy Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

7

Washington Monument

Get direction

3 attractions

8

Jefferson Memorial

Get direction

2 attractions

9

FDR Memorial/ MLK Jr. Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

10

Lincoln Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

11

National Museum of American History

Get direction

3 attractions

12

National Portrait Gallery/African Art Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

13

Washington Welcome Center

Get direction

3 attractions

14

The White House

Get direction

3 attractions

15

National Archives

Get direction

3 attractions

Your 30-year legacy tour of DC, featuring Transportainment® bringing 100+ landmarks to life.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy a 1-day unlimited pass on the iconic Trolley tour passing by the White House & Jefferson Memorial, with an English-speaking guide. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi, learn more from on-board history monitors, and dive deeper with free self-guided walking tours.
  • Why choose this**:** Jump on the longest-running tour, where friendly experts show you 100+ incredible spots! Skip expensive city parking and explore from comfy trolleys.

Your 30-year legacy tour of DC, featuring Transportainment® bringing 100+ landmarks to life.

  • Everything you get: Enjoy a 1-day unlimited pass on the iconic Trolley tour passing by the White House & Jefferson Memorial, with an English-speaking guide. Stay connected with free Wi-Fi, learn more from on-board history monitors, and dive deeper with free self-guided walking tours.
  • Why choose this**:** Jump on the longest-running tour, where friendly experts show you 100+ incredible spots! Skip expensive city parking and explore from comfy trolleys.

Inclusions

  • 1-day unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
  • Access to the Trolley tour
  • Live English-speaking guide
  • Free self-guided walking tours
  • State-of-the-art stadium trolleys
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • On-board history monitors

Trolley tour

The Washington D.C. trolley tour typically follows a single comprehensive route, focusing on the National Mall, its iconic monuments and memorials, and key downtown attractions.

Popular stops: Union Station, Capitol building, Smithsonian, Lincoln Memorial

  • The tour does not operate on Independence Day (July 4), the Army Ten-Miler race (Oct 12), Thanksgiving, & Christmas.
  • Children under 4 years old can travel for free.
  • Specific details related to the add-ons in your tickets, like walking tours, will be shared post-booking.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing the Lincoln Memorial.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Tour guide speaking on a Big Bus Tours double-decker in Washington, D.C.
Tourists on a Big Bus Tour in Washington, D.C., with the Washington Monument in the background.
Big Bus tour in front of the US Capitol, Washington DC.
Passengers enjoying a Big Bus Tour in Washington, D.C.
Open-top Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing a historic building.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing the Lincoln Memorial.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Tour guide speaking on a Big Bus Tours double-decker in Washington, D.C.
Tourists on a Big Bus Tour in Washington, D.C., with the Washington Monument in the background.
Big Bus tour in front of the US Capitol, Washington DC.
Passengers enjoying a Big Bus Tour in Washington, D.C.
Open-top Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing a historic building.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing the Lincoln Memorial.
Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing by the US Capitol building.
Tour guide speaking on a Big Bus Tours double-decker in Washington, D.C.
Tourists on a Big Bus Tour in Washington, D.C., with the Washington Monument in the background.
Big Bus tour in front of the US Capitol, Washington DC.
Passengers enjoying a Big Bus Tour in Washington, D.C.
Open-top Big Bus tour in Washington DC passing a historic building.
NEW

Big Bus: Best of DC Hop-on Hop-off Bus + Sunset Tour

from
$75
Free cancellation

You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Book now, pay later

Book now without paying anything. Cancel for free if your plans change

Flexible duration
Audio guide
Transfers included
Routes
TOTAL DURATION1 hour 50 minutes
FREQUENCYEvery 30 minutes
MODE OF TRANSFERA/C Bus
FIRST DEPARTUREUnion Station at 9:30 AM
LAST DEPARTUREUnion Station at 4:30 PM
Timeline
Map

1

Union Station

Get direction

3 attractions

2

US Capitol at Garfield Circle

Get direction

3 attractions

3

Air & Space Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

4

L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

5

The Wharf & Potomac Boat Cruise

Get direction

3 attractions

6

Washington Monument West

Get direction

3 attractions

7

Bureau of Engraving & Holocaust Musuem

Get direction

3 attractions

8

Jefferson Memorial

Get direction

2 attractions

9

FDR and MLK Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

10

Lincoln Memorial & Korean War Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

11

Lincoln Memorial North & Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

12

Arlington Cemetery

Get direction

3 attractions

13

World War II Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

14

Washington Monument East

Get direction

3 attractions

15

Natural History Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

16

City Center & Chinatown

Get direction

3 attractions

17

The White House & Willard Hotel

Get direction

3 attractions

Experience all of DC: Hop off at iconic spots & catch a sunset tour with added benefits.

  • Whether you want to speed through landmarks or truly savor each stop, the 24, 48, or 72-hour bus tours fit any agenda.
  • Just hop on and off at any of the 17 stops on the Red Loop, with buses arriving every 20 minutes.
  • This comprehensive experience includes a 2-hour non-stop sunset tour, morning hotel transfers, an Arlington guided walking tour, an Oval Office photo, and discounts.
  • Step onto a comfortable double-decker bus, put on your headphones, and let compelling narratives reveal the city's profound history in 5 distinct languages.
  • As an Authorized National Park Service concessioner, get close-up views of iconic spots like the White House and Washington Monument.

Experience all of DC: Hop off at iconic spots & catch a sunset tour with added benefits.

  • Whether you want to speed through landmarks or truly savor each stop, the 24, 48, or 72-hour bus tours fit any agenda.
  • Just hop on and off at any of the 17 stops on the Red Loop, with buses arriving every 20 minutes.
  • This comprehensive experience includes a 2-hour non-stop sunset tour, morning hotel transfers, an Arlington guided walking tour, an Oval Office photo, and discounts.
  • Step onto a comfortable double-decker bus, put on your headphones, and let compelling narratives reveal the city's profound history in 5 distinct languages.
  • As an Authorized National Park Service concessioner, get close-up views of iconic spots like the White House and Washington Monument.

Inclusions

  • 24/48/72-hour unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
  • Access to Red Loop
  • 2-hour non-stop sunset tour
  • Morning shuttle transfers from Mayflower, Hilton & Marriott to stop #1 Union Station
  • 2-hour live guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery
  • Bike rental offer (book 1 hour, get 1 hour free)
  • Free commemorative Oval Office photo from White House Gifts
  • Discounts at I Love DC Gifts (free souvenir), Artechouse ($5 off), International Spy Museum Store (10% off) & Unlimited Biking ($5 off) (based on option selected)
  • Complimentary headphones
  • Audio guide in English, French, German, Spanish & Brazilian Portuguese
  • Exclusive drop-offs close to monuments
  • Mobile app with a detailed map and live bus tracking

Red Loop
The Red Loop covers the heart of Washington DC, passing by renowned landmarks and key points of interest.
Popular stops: White House, Jefferson Memorial, Smithsonian Castle

Sunset Tour
The tour primarily passes by the city’s most famous historical, governmental, and memorial sites.
Popular stops: US Capitol, Air & Space Museum, Lincoln Memorial

  • The buses are wheelchair and pram/stroller accessible.
  • Make sure to redeem your ticket and board the bus at Stop #1 (Union Station).
  • The Sunset Tour is a non-stop bus tour, and not a hop-on hop-off service.
  • Seats are available on a first-come first-serve basis.
  • Specific details related to the add-ons in your tickets like the Sunset Tour, Arlington walking tour, and hotel transfers, will be shared post-booking.
  • A valid ticket is required to avail any offers or discounts. The discounts are only applicable with a 48 or 72-hour pass.
  • The tour remains closed on Independence Day (July 4) & Christmas (Dec 25).
  • Big Bus Washington DC is an Authorized National Park Service Concessioner and gets you closer to meaningful monuments and memorials.
  • You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.

Exploring Hop-on Hop-off tours with ease

Washington DC is a city filled with history & culture, making it a must-visit destination for travelers of all kinds. As the capital of the United States, it offers a unique blend of monuments, museums, government buildings, and vibrant neighborhoods, ensuring there’s something for everyone. 

Hop-on Hop-off bus and night tours in DC seamlessly connect these must-see attractions spread across the city, such as the Natural History Museum, the White House, and the Lincoln Memorial. With pre-recorded commentary and live tracking, you can access a bevy of perks and offers that ensure the best balance of convenience, education, and flexibility while touring one of the world’s most historically significant cities.

Why choose Hop-on Hop-off Washington DC bus tours

Big Bus Washington DC
  • Extensive coverage of major landmarks: The Red Loop covers important landmarks like the White House, U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, Arlington Cemetery, the Smithsonian Museums, and the National Mall, making hop-on hop-off tours one of the most comprehensive ways of exploring the city.
  • Enjoy a stress-free sightseeing experience: Driving in D.C. can be challenging, with heavy traffic, complex one-way streets, and very limited parking near major sites. With hop-on hop-off tours you don’t have to worry about any navigation or logistics issues.
  • Learn as you explore: The multilingual pre-recorded live commentary feature available in 5 languages on these hop-on hop-off buses ensures you don’t just see the landmarks, but also understand their stories. With historical insights, fun facts, and lesser-known stories, you get to combine education and entertainment all in one place, even on the DC night bus tour.
  • Essential add-ons to your bus tour: The Potomac River Cruise offers a completely different vantage point and unobstructed panoramic views of important landmarks. On the sunset tour, see the Capital bathed in golden light and witness the gradual shift from day to night.

Hop-on Hop-off buses are the perfect choice for

Big Bus Washington DC with the Capitol building in view

First-time visitors

 For travelers visiting a city for the first time, hop-on hop-off buses eliminate all the stress by providing a structured, yet flexible, sightseeing experience.

Group taking a selfie in front of the Big Bus

Families

With a mix of flexibility and comfort, hop-on hop-off buses are designed for families, big groups, and elderly visitors, further aided by wheelchair accessibility.

Man with a backpack using phone while waiting for a bus in a city setting.

Solo travelers

Hop-on Hop-off tours provide a safe, easy, and customizable way to explore for solo travelers in any new city.

Woman taking a picture holding a camera

Photography enthusiasts

For photographers, hop-on hop-off buses provide the perfect elevated platform for capturing DC’s cityscapes, landmarks, and candid street scenes. The Washington DC night bus tour also offers ample unique photo ops.

Man with backpack in a city street on a budget travel tour.

Budget-conscious travelers

Hop-on hop-off tours offer a cost-effective alternative to buying multiple transportation tickets. With unlimited stops and exclusive deals, you can enjoy sightseeing without breaking the bank.

How to choose the best Hop-on Hop-off tour with Big Bus

  • Costs: With 1,2 & 3-day pass options, Big Bus offers flexible ticketing alternatives to suit your travel needs. The 1-day pass is competitively priced under $50 and includes a bike rental offer and exclusive monument drop-offs beyond access to the Red Loop. Much more economical than buying two 1-day passes, the 2-day pass includes the Potomac River cruise and morning shuttle transfers. Along with time for in-depth exploration, the 3-day pass includes a 2-hour sunset tour and all the above perks.
  • Perks: The 1-day pass provides access to 15+ stops on the Red Loop, pre-recorded commentary, live tracking, monument drop-offs and bike rental offers. The 2-day pass has additional add-ons like a 45-minute Potomac River Cruise, discounts at various souvenir shops, and free commemorative Oval Office photos. The 3-day pass offers the ultimate bonanza with a 2-hour sunset tour to further enhance your DC adventure.

Finding the best Hop-on Hop-off pass duration

  • 1-day pass: Ideal for short-stay visitors, cruise passengers, and business travelers with limited free time. You can efficiently cover all the major landmarks without worrying about the logistics. Your experience can also help you decide if you’d like to upgrade your pass.
  • 2-day pass: Allowing for deeper exploration, you can visit lesser-known destinations on top of the key highlights. It lets you experience Washington DC both in the day and night on a relaxed timeline.
  • 3-day pass: Unlocking ultimate value, it enables you to immerse yourself in the city’s history and culture. You can revisit attractions you couldn’t get enough of and also opt for additional upgrades like a boat tour, sunset or night tour.

How to book tickets

Washington DC HOHO

Step 1: Choose your route

Each tour follows a unique route. Review the routes and stops and pick the tour that covers your must-see attractions.

Washington DC HOHO

Step 2: Book your tickets

Purchase your Hop-on Hop-off tickets easily using PayPal or a credit/debit card.

Washington DC HOHO

Step 3: Check your email

Receive your ticket voucher instantly in your inbox. If you don’t see it, check your spam or junk folder.

Washington DC HOHO

Step 4: Download the operator’s app

Track the bus in real-time, plan your journey, and explore routes with an interactive map.

Washington DC HOHO

Step 5: Hop-on & explore!

Head to any designated stop, show your mobile voucher to the driver or staff, and start your adventure!

Tips to make the most of your Hop-on Hop-off Washington DC bus tour

  • Arrive before 10am at the U.S. Capitol and Library of Congress, which are amongst the busiest attractions in D.C. 
  • After a full morning of sightseeing, hop off at Georgetown or The Wharf for lunch with waterfront views.
  • The MLK Memorial is stunning in the late afternoon, with soft golden-hour lighting making the sculpture glow.
  • While heading from Union Station to the White House, sit on the right side of the top deck to get the best Capitol shots.
  • Washington DC has many free museums and landmarks, like the Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Arlington Cemetery, and Smithsonian Museums.

Frequently Asked Questions about Washington DC's Hop-on Hop-off bus tours

What is the frequency of hop-on hop-off buses in Washington DC?

Hop-on hop-off buses in DC arrive every 30 minutes. An entire circuit loop takes approximately 2 hours.

What sets Big Bus apart as an operator?

As an Authorized National Park Service Concessioner, Big Bus Tours gets you closer to meaningful monuments and memorials.

What’s special about the Sunset Bus Tour?

Unlike the standard hop-on hop-off service, this non-stop guided tour allows you to experience iconic Washington DC landmarks bathed in warm, golden light and experience the surreal transformation from day to night.

Are Hop-on Hop-off tours in Washington child-friendly?

Yes, make sure to purchase tickets for children 3 years and above.

Are the Hop-on Hop-off Washington buses accessible for people with mobility issues?

Yes, all Hop-on Hop-off buses are wheelchair-accessible.

Do these tours operate throughout the year?

The hop-on hop-off tours in DC operate daily except on Christmas (25 Dec).

Read more about Washington DC's Hop-on Hop-off tours

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Routes & Stops

Timetable