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.
























Double-decker bus on Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour passing the US Capitol building.
Double-decker bus on Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour passing the US Capitol building.
Big Bus tour passing Washington DC landmarks, including the Capitol Building.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Open-top double-decker bus touring Washington D.C. landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol.
Big Bus tour passing Washington DC landmarks, including the Capitol Building.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the city's iconic landmarks
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the US Capitol building in the background
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the US Capitol building in the background
Double-decker bus on Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour passing the US Capitol building.
Double-decker bus on Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour passing the US Capitol building.
Big Bus tour passing Washington DC landmarks, including the Capitol Building.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Open-top double-decker bus touring Washington D.C. landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol.
Big Bus tour passing Washington DC landmarks, including the Capitol Building.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the city's iconic landmarks
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the US Capitol building in the background
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the US Capitol building in the background
Double-decker bus on Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour passing the US Capitol building.
Double-decker bus on Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Tour passing the US Capitol building.
Big Bus tour passing Washington DC landmarks, including the Capitol Building.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Open-top double-decker bus touring Washington D.C. landmarks, including the U.S. Capitol.
Big Bus tour passing Washington DC landmarks, including the Capitol Building.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the city's iconic landmarks
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the US Capitol building in the background
Tourists enjoying the Washington DC Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour with a view of the US Capitol building in the background
4.1(327)

Big Bus: Washington DC Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Potomac River Cruise

from
$59
Free cancellation

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

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
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

Nearby things to do

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Union Station
National Postal Museum
5 min walk
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Columbus Circle and Fountain
7 min walk

2

US Capitol at Garfield Circle

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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US Capitol at Garfield Circle
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Library of Congress
5 min walk
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Supreme Court of the United States
5 min walk

3

Air & Space Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

Air & Space Museum
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Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
4 min walk
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National Museum of the American Indian
3 min walk

4

L’Enfant Plaza & International Spy Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

L’Enfant Plaza
3 min walk
International Spy Museum
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Smithsonian Castle
3 min walk

5

The Wharf & Potomac Boat Cruise

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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The Wharf
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Potomac River
11 min walk
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East Potomac Park
10 min walk

6

Washington Monument West

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Washington Monument West
Artechouse
6 min walk
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Tidal Basin
5 min walk

7

Bureau of Engraving & Holocaust Musuem

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Bureau of Engraving and Printing
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United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
9 min walk
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Smithsonian American History Museum
7 min walk

8

Jefferson Memorial

Get direction

2 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Jefferson Memorial
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George Mason Memorial
1 min walk

9

FDR and MLK Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
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Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
11 min walk
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Japanese Pagoda

10

Lincoln Memorial & Korean War Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Lincoln Memorial
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Korean War Veterans Memorial
5 min walk
Albert Einstein Memorial
1 min walk

11

Lincoln Memorial North & Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Lincoln Memorial
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Vietnam Veterans Memorial
1 min walk
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Constitution Gardens
2 min walk

12

Arlington Cemetery

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Arlington Cemetery
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Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
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Arlington House
3 min walk

13

World War II Memorial

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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World War II Memorial
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D.C. War Memorial
1 min walk
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Floral Library
2 min walk

14

Washington Monument East

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Washington Monument East
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National Museum of African American History and Culture
2 min walk
Wegmans Wonderplace
3 min walk

15

Natural History Museum

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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Natural History Museum
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National Archives Museum
2 min walk
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Ford’s Theatre
6 min walk

16

City Center & Chinatown

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

City Center
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Chinatown
3 min walk
Capital One Arena
4 min walk

17

The White House & Willard Hotel

Get direction

3 attractions

Nearby things to do

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The White House
3 min walk
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Willard InterContinental Hotel
3 min walk
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Eisenhower Executive Office Building
6 min walk
  • Zip through landmarks or linger at leisure, the 1/2/3-day 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 mins.
  • Opt for a 2 or 3-day pass for a Potomac River cruise, a visit to the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials, enjoy a 2-hour sunset tour, 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.
  • Zip through landmarks or linger at leisure, the 1/2/3-day 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 mins.
  • Opt for a 2 or 3-day pass for a Potomac River cruise, a visit to the Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials, enjoy a 2-hour sunset tour, 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

  • 1/2/3-day unlimited hop-on hop-off tour
  • Access to Red Loop
  • 45-min Potomac River one-way boat ride (based on option selected)
  • Morning shuttle transfers from Mayflower, Hilton & Marriott to stop #1 Union Station (based on option selected)
  • 2-hour sunset tour (based on option selected)
  • 25% off on sunset tour (based on option selected)
  • Bike rental offer (book 1 hour, get 1 free)
  • 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

Potomac River boat ride

  • Departure from The Wharf: at 12:30pm, 14:30pm & 16:30pm
  • Departure from The Dock at Georgetown: 13:30pm, 15:30pm & 17:30pm

2-hour Sunset tour

  • Departure: 6:30pm & 7pm from 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 Georgetown dock for the Potomac boat ride is not accessible by wheelchair and pram/strollers.
  • 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.
Double-decker bus on a night tour passing by illuminated Washington D.C. landmarks.
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off NightTour of Washington DC
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Night Tour of Washington DC
25978 - Washington DC - Big Bus: 2-Hour Night Bus Tour of Washington DC - 06
Aerial view of Lincoln Memorial at night
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Double-decker bus on a night tour passing by illuminated Washington D.C. landmarks.
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off NightTour of Washington DC
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Night Tour of Washington DC
25978 - Washington DC - Big Bus: 2-Hour Night Bus Tour of Washington DC - 06
Aerial view of Lincoln Memorial at night
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Double-decker bus on a night tour passing by illuminated Washington D.C. landmarks.
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off NightTour of Washington DC
Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Night Tour of Washington DC
25978 - Washington DC - Big Bus: 2-Hour Night Bus Tour of Washington DC - 06
Aerial view of Lincoln Memorial at night
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
Big Bus tour passing by the Washington Monument in Washington DC.
NEW

Big Bus: Washington DC Sunset Bus Tour

from
$59
Free cancellation

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

Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.
Guided tour
  • 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.
  • 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, and see what fellow travelers are saying!

Exploring Hop-on Hop-off tours with ease

Washington, D.C. 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 tours 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.
  • 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.

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, D.C. has many free museums and landmarks, like the Lincoln Memorial, National Mall, Arlington Cemetery, and Smithsonian Museums.

Frequently Asked Questions about Los Angeles’ 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 child-friendly?

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

Is the Hop-on Hop-off bus 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).