DC: Hop-on Hop-off Bus, Arlington Walking Tour, and Night Tour

Traveling to Washington DC offers an array of iconic sights—from the White House and Capitol Building to the poignant Arlington National Cemetery. This tour package, priced at $75 per person, packs quite a punch for those wanting a flexible, in-depth look at the nation’s capital. It combines the convenience of a Big Bus open-top double-decker with unlimited hop-on, hop-off access, a guided Arlington Cemetery walking tour (available Sept-Oct), and a captivating 2-hour night tour that illuminates some of DC’s most famous landmarks. The entire experience takes roughly 2 hours for the night tour alone, but with the hop-on hop-off, you can craft your own schedule across 24, 48, or 72 hours.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and flexible it makes exploring DC. First, the unlimited hop-on, hop-off bus means you can linger at your favorite sites or hop off for a quick photo or a longer visit—without the hassle of navigating public transport or parking. Second, the night tour truly transforms the city’s familiar sights into a magical landscape, all lit up and glowing, giving a different perspective on its history and architecture. The guided Arlington Cemetery walk adds depth and context to a place many visitors only glance at from afar.

A small consideration, however, is that the night tour isn’t hop-on, hop-off—it’s a fixed two-hour ride, so if you want to explore more after dark, you’d need to book additional options. Also, the Arlington Cemetery tour runs only September through October, so if you visit outside those months, you’ll want to explore the self-guided digital walk instead.

This tour package is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, history buffs eager for detailed narratives, or travelers short on time who prefer a flexible, all-in-one experience. If you enjoy combining guided insights with self-paced exploration and stunning evening views, this could be just what you need.

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing with unlimited hop-on, hop-off access over multiple days.
• Guided Arlington Cemetery tour (Sept-Oct only) for poignant historical insights.
• Spectacular night views of landmarks like the Washington Monument and Georgetown lit up.
• Affordability offers excellent value when bundled, often saving up to 40% off retail prices.
• Digital commentary enhances the experience with multi-language options.
• Convenient starting point at Union Station with no hotel pick-up needed.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Washington DC is a city best appreciated at different times of day, and this tour captures that perfectly. First, the Big Bus hop-on, hop-off allows you to see the city’s highlights at your own pace—whether that’s marveling at the White House, snapping photos at the Lincoln Memorial, or exploring the Smithsonian Museums. The open-top bus offers an unbeatable perspective—you’re close enough to see intricate details while enjoying the breeze and fresh air.

The digital commentary aboard the bus is a real plus, especially if you’re traveling with a group that speaks multiple languages. We found the multilingual audio guides made it easy for everyone to follow along, and the app’s live bus tracking meant we could plan our next move without missing out.

The Arlington Cemetery guided walk (active September to October) is a highlight. Led by a local guide, it provides a meaningful context to the somber grounds—visiting the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the graves of notable figures, and the Eternal Flame at President John F. Kennedy’s memorial. Reviewers consistently praise guides like Erica, who made the history come alive, adding personal stories and insights that deepen the experience. One traveler remarked, “Erica and crew are amazing guides,” which shows the value of a knowledgeable guide in enriching a visit to this historic site.

The night tour completes the experience beautifully. For two hours, you’ll sit atop the double-decker bus as it cruises past illuminated landmarks like the Washington Monument, Iwo Jima Memorial, and the historic Georgetown neighborhood. The contrast between daytime hustle and nighttime glow offers a fresh appreciation for the city’s majestic architecture. Many reviews emphasize how stunning the views are and how the lighting transforms familiar landmarks into enchanting silhouettes. This part of the tour is especially recommended if you enjoy scenic photography or simply want a romantic moment in the city.

Transportation and timing are well-organized, with the bus starting at 6:30 pm from Union Station—a convenient central location close to many hotels and transit options. Since the tour is limited to 50 travelers, it feels intimate enough to ask questions or stay engaged without feeling crowded.

Pricing analysis shows this bundled experience offers significant value, especially compared to individual ticket costs. The $75 fee includes the 24, 48, or 72-hour hop-on hop-off, a guided Arlington walk (in season), and the night tour, which collectively can be worth up to $213 if purchased separately. Plus, perks like the free Oval Office photo at White House Gifts add a fun, memorable touch.

Travelers have praised the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, with one saying, “Erica and crew are amazing guides.” The flexibility to explore at your own pace, combined with the professional narration and strategic stops, makes this a reliable choice for those seeking a rundown.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start at Union Station—a landmark in its own right—where you’ll pick up your digital ticket or have it activated via the app or in person. The bus then takes you on a route passing key sights like the Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, Smithsonian Museums, and more. The stops are designed for easy access, so you can hop off for a closer look or linger for photo ops.

The Arlington Cemetery walk departs from the Arlington Visitors Center at 1 pm (Sept-Oct only). This guided walk lasts about 2 hours, with a focus on the history and significance of the cemetery. Many reviews highlight how guides make the experience engaging and respectful, adding stories that bring history alive.

The night tour begins at 6:30 pm from Union Station, offering a panoramic view of illuminated landmarks. You’ll pass by the Washington Monument casting a golden glow, see the Iwo Jima Memorial and the Kennedy Center, and glide through neighborhoods like Georgetown, all under the glow of evening lights.

Optional self-guided digital tours of Arlington give you the flexibility to explore on your own if the guided walk isn’t available during your visit.

What Travelers Say

Feedback from those who have taken this tour is overwhelmingly positive. Many appreciated the value for money, especially with the bundle discount. One reviewer raved, “Great way to see DC, day and night tours. Erica and crew are amazing guides.” Others highlighted the stunning evening views: “You see the city in a whole new light, the glow of the monuments is breathtaking.”

Some noted the small group size of the night tour (limited to 50), which made for a more intimate, engaging experience. The digital commentary is also praised for its clarity and multilingual options, ensuring everyone can enjoy the narrative.

The guided Arlington Cemetery tour particularly resonated with visitors interested in history, with many saying guides provided valuable context and stories that you wouldn’t get from a solo visit. The free Oval Office photo is a charming bonus, a keepsake that adds to the fun.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This combination tour is perfect if you want to maximize your time and see DC’s highlights comfortably. It suits first-time visitors eager to get an overview, history enthusiasts wanting detailed insights, or families looking for a flexible, engaging way to explore. The night tour is especially recommended for those who enjoy scenic, lit-up views and memorable photo opportunities.

While it doesn’t include hotel pickup, the central starting point at Union Station makes it easy to connect from most accommodations. The cost-effective bundle offers excellent value—especially when you consider the included extras like the digital commentary and free photo.

If you prefer an organized, guided experience with the freedom to explore at your own pace, this tour hits the right notes. Plus, with the free cancellation policy, you can plan with confidence, knowing you can adjust your plans if needed.

FAQ

Can I take the hop-on hop-off bus and the night tour on different days?
Yes. The tickets are valid for 24, 48, or 72 hours, so you can activate them on separate days to suit your schedule.

Is the Arlington Cemetery tour a guided walk or self-guided?
During September and October, a 2-hour guided walking tour is included, led by a local guide. Outside that period, a self-guided digital tour is available instead.

What is included in the price of $75?
The package covers the unlimited hop-on hop-off bus (up to 72 hours), the 2-hour night tour, the Arlington Cemetery guided walk (when in season), plus extras like the free Oval Office photo and digital commentary in multiple languages.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at Union Station, 50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington DC, and returns there at the end of the night tour.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, this activity does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but the starting point is centrally located.

How many people can join the tour?
The maximum number of travelers per tour is 50, making for a relatively intimate experience.

Wrapping It Up

This Washington DC combo tour offers a smart way to see the nation’s capital without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. With flexible hop-on, hop-off access, a heartfelt guided Arlington Cemetery walk, and a stunning illuminated night tour, you get a well-rounded perspective of the city’s key landmarks and hidden corners.

Its value lies not just in the price but in the convenience and depth it offers—perfect for first-timers, history buffs, or anyone eager to experience DC’s grandeur at a relaxed pace. The guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm shine through, elevating what might otherwise be just a sightseeing jaunt into a memorable, meaningful adventure.

If you’re looking for a cost-effective, comprehensive way to explore Washington DC—day and night, with insights and scenery—you’ll find this tour package hard to beat. Just remember to book ahead, especially in peak seasons, to ensure you don’t miss out on the full experience.

Remember: The best trips often combine guided insights with personal exploration. This tour does just that—making your visit to DC both enjoyable and enriching.