DC: Hop-On Hop-Off with 17 Stops plus Arlington Walking Tour

DC: Hop-On Hop-Off with 17 Stops plus Arlington Walking Tour

Traveling around Washington DC doesn’t have to mean endless walking or battling traffic. For just $49 per person, you can enjoy a 2-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour that takes you past the city’s most famous sights — from the White House to the Lincoln Memorial — with the flexibility to get off and explore at your own pace. Plus, with an included 2-hour walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery, this experience offers a meaningful way to connect with America’s history.

One highlight we love is the panoramic views from the open-top double-decker bus. Another is the chance to visit Arlington Cemetery with a knowledgeable guide, making history come alive. The audio commentary in multiple languages makes it easy to learn about each site without missing a detail. The only thing to consider is that the tour lasts just two hours, so it’s perfect as an overview but might not satisfy those wanting in-depth exploration of every monument.

This tour suits travelers who want a flexible, budget-friendly way to see DC’s key landmarks without the hassle of navigating on their own. Families, first-timers, or those short on time will find it especially valuable. If you’re a history buff or simply want the convenience of a guided overview, this combination of bus and walking tour hits the sweet spot.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Flexible sightseeing: Hop on and off at 17 different stops around the National Mall.
• Rich commentary: Multi-language audio guides keep you informed without needing a guide in person.
• Must-see landmarks: Lincoln Memorial, White House, Washington Monument, MLK Memorial, FDR Memorial, and more.
• Arlington Cemetery: A 2-hour guided walk offers a deeper understanding of this historic resting place.
• Great value: For $49, you get a lot of sightseeing and a meaningful walking tour in one package.
• Limited duration: The two-hour bus tour is a quick snapshot, ideal for those on a tight schedule.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The DC hop-on hop-off tour with 17 stops offers a practical way to cover a lot of ground in a short period. The buses, which run regularly, cruise around the city with open-top decks that provide terrific views of landmarks like the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building. You’ll enjoy the audio commentary, available in several languages, which adds context and stories to each site — very handy when you’re trying to absorb a lot in a limited time.

What makes this tour appealing is the ability to craft your own itinerary. Want a quick snapshot of the White House? Just hop off for a photo. Craving a close-up of the Lincoln Memorial? Get off, explore, then hop back on the next bus. Some reviews note the buses are more frequent than expected, with buses arriving every 20 minutes or so, which minimizes waiting.

The 17 stops span all the major monuments and museums. You can spend as much or as little time as you like at each spot. Some travelers, like Zoe Ann from the UK, mentioned that the route could be improved with buses running in both directions, which would make reaching certain sites more straightforward. Still, the current setup allows for a full loop or selective exploration.

The Arlington Cemetery walk is a standout feature. Led by a local guide, this 2-hour guided walk takes you through the hallowed grounds where presidents, soldiers, and heroes are buried. It’s a deeply moving experience, highlighted by stories of those laid to rest and the symbolism of landmarks like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Kennedy gravesites. Reviewers like Latasha describe it as “the most inspiring and educational visit,” adding a layer of emotional depth to your day.

Additional perks include a free Oval Office commemorative photo (with 48/72-hour tickets), a one-hour bike rental, and access to discounts around DC. The tour’s official partnership with the National Park Service ensures most major museums and memorials are conveniently accessible, often right along the route.

In terms of practicality, the tour does not include hotel pickup, so you’ll need to meet at designated stops or nearby locations. The buses are driver-led, with helpful staff, and the app provides real-time tracking, which many reviews praise for reducing wait times.

Itinerary Breakdown: What You’ll See and Experience

The Landmarks and Stops

The National Mall is the tour’s centerpiece, and for good reason. As you glide past, you’ll see iconic sites like the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech. You’ll love the views of the Reflecting Pool, which make for perfect photo opportunities. Reviewers like Michelle mention that doing the tour on Memorial Day was especially memorable, despite some sites being closed or crowded.

The White House is another highlight, and while you can’t go inside, the bus gets you close enough for photos. Many visitors, like Stephen, appreciated the visual proximity and the educational commentary that made the exterior viewing more meaningful.

Further along, you’ll pass by the FDR Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, and the WWII Memorial, all situated along the Tidal Basin. The MLK Memorial, with its striking statue, is a favorite for many, as Latasha notes. The tour provides insightful stories about the significance of each memorial, making your visit more than just a photo-op.

Museums and cultural institutions like the Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum are accessible nearby, though the tour focuses mainly on outdoor monuments. The official partnership with the National Park Service means you can explore these museums later or afterward at your leisure.

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Arlington National Cemetery Walk

The 2-hour guided walking tour is a touching experience. Led by a knowledgeable local, this walk brings history to life through personal stories and insights. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and JFK graves are some of the most visited sites. Reviewers like Latasha find it “a deeply emotional and educational experience,” giving you a chance to reflect on sacrifice and service.

The walk departs from the Arlington Cemetery Visitors Center at 1 PM and is available during certain months (September to October 30). You’ll need to bring your ID to enter, and the experience is designed to be at your own pace, with ample opportunity for reflection.

Additional Benefits and Considerations

Many reviews highlight the value for money — especially when you consider the included extras like the bike rental and discounts. The audio guides are praised for their clarity and engaging content, making the bus ride both relaxing and educational.

However, some travelers mention the short duration of the 2-hour tour as a drawback if you’re hoping for a deep dive into each site. It’s more a highlight reel than an exhaustive exploration. Also, traffic in DC can sometimes delay buses, but the frequent arrivals help mitigate this.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re short on time but want a rundown of Washington DC’s key sights, this tour delivers. It’s ideal for first-time visitors who want to cover the highlights without the hassle of more complex arrangements. Families with kids benefit from the easy, flexible format and the engaging commentary.

History buffs will appreciate the Arlington Cemetery walk, which adds a meaningful dimension to the sightseeing. Budget-conscious travelers will find the value impressive given the multiple included features and the convenience of hop-on hop-off transportation.

That said, if you’re after a more in-depth visit to specific museums or monuments, you might want to supplement this with additional visits or guided tours. The two-hour bus ride is a great overview, but not a substitute for dedicated museum explorations.

The Sum Up

This DC hop-on hop-off tour combined with Arlington Cemetery walking experience offers a practical and respectful way to get to know the capital. It’s especially well-suited for those who want an easy, flexible way to see the main sights while learning some of the stories behind them. The knowledgeable guides and stunning views make it a worthwhile day, and the additional Arlington tour adds depth and emotional resonance.

For travelers who value value for money, convenience, and an authentic, educational experience, this tour hits many of the right notes. It’s a smart choice for a first visit, a family outing, or anyone seeking a balanced overview of Washington DC’s most important landmarks.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the hop-on hop-off bus allows flexibility for children, and the Arlington Cemetery walk can be meaningful for older kids interested in American history.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You will need to meet at the designated starting point or nearby.

How long is the bus ride?
The main tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with buses arriving frequently throughout the day, giving you plenty of flexibility.

Can I visit museums after the tour?
Absolutely. The tour is focused on outdoor monuments and memorials, but the National Park Service partnership provides access to nearby museums like the Smithsonian.

Is the Arlington Cemetery walk guided?
Yes, it’s a 2-hour guided walk led by a local expert, available September through October 30.

Are there any extras included?
Yes, depending on your ticket, you may receive a free White House commemorative photo, bike rental, and discounts around DC.

What if I want to explore more than just the highlights?
This tour is designed to provide an overview. For in-depth exploration, plan additional time at specific sites or use other guided tours.

How does the app help?
The Big Bus app provides real-time bus tracking and route information, helping you plan your stops efficiently and reduce waiting time.

This combination of bus sightseeing and Arlington Cemetery offers a respectful, flexible way to connect with Washington’s past and present — making your trip more memorable and meaningful.

You can check availability for your dates here: