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Top 20 Things To Do in Washington, D.C.

Discover Washington, D.C.'s must-see attractions and highly-rated experiences. Our expertly curated guide helps you plan the perfect visit with insider recommendations and traveler favorites.

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Washington, D.C. Travel Guide: Essential Information for Visitors

Washington, D.C. fascinates visitors as America's capital, where iconic monuments, world-class museums, and living history create an inspiring destination that showcases the best of American democracy and culture. Explore the magnificent National Mall lined with the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol, visit the awe-inspiring Smithsonian museums (most with free admission), and tour the White House, the most famous residence in America. Experience the moving Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the powerful exhibits at the Holocaust Memorial Museum. Washington's vibrant neighborhoods each offer distinct personalities—from historic Georgetown with its cobblestone streets and waterfront dining to the lively Adams Morgan district with its international cuisine and nightlife. The city's cherry blossoms in spring create a spectacular pink canopy around the Tidal Basin, while year-round cultural events, festivals, and the Kennedy Center performances ensure there's always something exciting happening in the nation's capital.

Top 20 Attractions in Washington, D.C.

#1
Classic Monuments & Memorials Tour - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Classic Monuments & Memorials Tour - Additional viewClassic Monuments & Memorials Tour - View 3Classic Monuments & Memorials Tour - View 4Classic Monuments & Memorials Tour - View 5Classic Monuments & Memorials Tour - View 6
Classic Monuments & Memorials Tour
69 Reviews

You can see all Washington DC Monuments and Memorials, the White House at your own pace, with no bus-filled crowding or walking — and no waiting. You'll be protected from the weather, including rain, snow and sun. Kid friendly and your dogs are most welcome! This is the best option for anyone with a mobility impairment. Our most popular tour is the Monuments and Memorials tour. We have done this tour 100+ different ways, depending on our guest's wishes. This is a tour of the entire National Mall on tricycle and includes the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, MLK Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean, Vietnam and WWII War Memorials, and the White House, as well as other memorials. We also conduct night tours, which usually include all the amazing lit-up sights (our favorites at night are The White House, World War II, Lincoln, Jefferson, Roosevelt and the Capitol).

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#2
National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max - Additional viewNational Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max - View 3National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max - View 4National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max - View 5National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max - View 6
National Archives + National Portrait Gallery Tour 6ppl Max
34 Reviews

This 5.5 hour Semi-Private (8 Guest Max.) guided combo tour welcomes guests to skip-the-line and experience two essential museums in Washington DC. The best way to understand the who and the what of the United States! Your guide will show you the documents and the people that have defined this country. This tour has the heroes and villains of history, culture, progress, and art of the USA. Highlights often include (but are not limited to): -The original Declaration of Independence -The Constitution -The Bill of Rights -1297 Magna Carta -Presidential Portraits
-20th Century American
-Obama Portraits -Pocahontas Portrait -Conservation Labs
-Works by Mary Cassatt, Edward Hopper, Andy Warhol, and Norman Rockwell

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#3
Arlington Cemetery Private Tour - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Arlington Cemetery Private Tour - Additional viewArlington Cemetery Private Tour - View 3Arlington Cemetery Private Tour - View 4Arlington Cemetery Private Tour - View 5Arlington Cemetery Private Tour - View 6
Arlington Cemetery Private Tour
30 Reviews

Experience Arlington Cemetery with a Veteran guide trained in military history. Observe the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Visit each of the Kennedy graves. Discover Robert E. Lee's mansion upon the grounds and his wife's garden where the first burials took place. Discuss the beginning of the cemetery during the Civil War and its evolution through all of our nations conflicts. US federal or state government issued photo identification or passport is required for entry into Arlington National Cemetery.

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#4
National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Tour 8ppl Max - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Tour 8ppl Max - Additional viewNational Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Tour 8ppl Max - View 3National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Tour 8ppl Max - View 4National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Tour 8ppl Max - View 5National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Tour 8ppl Max - View 6
National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Tour 8ppl Max
17 Reviews

Visit the National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum on a 2.5 hour semi-private (8 Guest Maximum) guided tour. Discover the best of American-made works all under one roof. Two of Washington’s most iconic museums take up residence in the historical Old Patent Office Building, where history and art collide.

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#5
Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests - Additional viewPrivate 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests - View 3Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests - View 4Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests - View 5Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests - View 6
Private 3 Hour Highlights Tour Washington DC for up to 10 Guests
14 Reviews

Embark on an exhilarating 3-hour journey through the heart of Washington DC with Perfect Private Tours! This exclusive private tour for up to 10 guests offers an unforgettable experience, unlocking hidden wonders and iconic landmarks. With your own expert guide, you’ll witness the grandeur of the National Mall, including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Capitol Building. As we cruise through the city’s historic streets, your guide will share captivating tales of American history, presidents, and the pivotal moments that shaped the nation. For 4 guests or fewer, you’ll enjoy a ride in a luxury SUV. For 5 to 10 guests, a Mercedes Sprinter van ensures a comfortable experience. Bottled water is included, keeping you refreshed along the way. Let us whisk you through DC on a personalized journey where every moment is an adventure. Reserve your private tour now and explore the nation's capital like a VIP!

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#6
Washington DC 3 Hour Day Tour - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Washington DC 3 Hour Day Tour - Additional viewWashington DC 3 Hour Day Tour - View 3Washington DC 3 Hour Day Tour - View 4Washington DC 3 Hour Day Tour - View 5Washington DC 3 Hour Day Tour - View 6
Washington DC 3 Hour Day Tour
5 Reviews

Want a quick overview of the National Mall? Then this is the tour for you. Learn the history of how the mall came into existence. Ride along the inauguration parade route, Pennsylvania Avenue, and find out how Thomas Jefferson influenced part of its look. Learn how 2 men a century apart created the layout for the Nation's Capital. At the end, choose to return to your hotel or get dropped off at one of the Smithsonian Museums.

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#7
Washington DC Sight Seeing Private Tour-English or Spanish Option - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Washington DC Sight Seeing Private Tour-English or Spanish Option - Additional viewWashington DC Sight Seeing Private Tour-English or Spanish Option - View 3Washington DC Sight Seeing Private Tour-English or Spanish Option - View 4Washington DC Sight Seeing Private Tour-English or Spanish Option - View 5Washington DC Sight Seeing Private Tour-English or Spanish Option - View 6
Washington DC Sight Seeing Private Tour-English or Spanish Option
5 Reviews

Take you through all the Major DC Monuments. You can choose any tour from our suggested timings as per your convenience. All our vehicles are first-class and also proclaim luxury. Our chauffeurs are well-skilled and all-around prepared; they will be there to look after, and besides, during the entire tour, you will not need to hire a guide because our chauffeurs will be your guide as well. You are ensured that you and your guests will receive high-quality travel with outstanding service.

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#8
Customizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Customizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC - Additional viewCustomizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC - View 3Customizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC - View 4Customizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC - View 5
Customizable Private Night Tour of Washington DC
4 Reviews

Explore the famous landmarks of Washington DC on a privately guided, 3 to 4 hour tour. Save time by hopping in & out of an air-conditioned/heated vehicle with a professional chauffeur! Enjoy an educational yet entertaining narrated history of Washington, DC. Ask our knowledgeable tour guides questions as you explore the famous memorials! Highly recommended locations to visit are the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, and many other landmarks to choose from! You may change your mind and change the itinerary at any time. We offer our clients complimentary snacks & waters!

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#9
Private 4-hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Private 4-hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown - Additional viewPrivate 4-hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown - View 3Private 4-hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown - View 4Private 4-hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown - View 5Private 4-hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown - View 6
Private 4-hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown
5 Reviews

On this leisurely walking tour, be immersed in one of the most historically significant parts of Washington D.C. Delve into Georgetown's colonial and Federal period history with a private guide, who will bring to life stories of long-standing traditions, high society and world politics. Home to world-class shopping, rich history, five-star restaurants and one of the world’s best universities, Georgetown simply cannot be missed.

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#10
Private Half Day Tour Of Washington DC  - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Private Half Day Tour Of Washington DC  - Additional viewPrivate Half Day Tour Of Washington DC  - View 3Private Half Day Tour Of Washington DC  - View 4Private Half Day Tour Of Washington DC  - View 5Private Half Day Tour Of Washington DC  - View 6
Private Half Day Tour Of Washington DC
2 Reviews

Capital City Tours offers you a candid sightseeing tours of Washington DC. A touring experience meant to ensure that you never feel left in the crowd. Perfect fit for small groups of friends and family! Better as a intimate tour for a date on your vacation! Built for your customization! See what you want, how you want, at the pace you want w/ an expert guide there to detail all the amazing history and to capture the magic moments of your experience. The perfect tour for you and a few, book with Capital City Tours today!

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#11
Private DC Monuments by Moonlight (Up to 12 Guests)  - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Private DC Monuments by Moonlight (Up to 12 Guests)  - Additional viewPrivate DC Monuments by Moonlight (Up to 12 Guests)  - View 3Private DC Monuments by Moonlight (Up to 12 Guests)  - View 4Private DC Monuments by Moonlight (Up to 12 Guests)  - View 5Private DC Monuments by Moonlight (Up to 12 Guests)  - View 6
Private DC Monuments by Moonlight (Up to 12 Guests)
2 Reviews

Step into the heart of the nation’s capital with an exclusive Private National Mall Night Tour for up to 12 guests. As the city lights illuminate the monuments, you’ll embark on a journey through history, witnessing DC’s most iconic landmarks in a breathtaking nighttime glow.

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#12
Day time tour  - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Day time tour  - Additional view
Day time tour
2 Reviews

What makes this private tour unique is that will covered almost all the memorials sites and makes stops as we go. Sometimes we allowed the travelers to choose which sites they want to see and those that they did not really care about. And because of the walking distance to some of the sites travelers also choose to skip some of the sites. In this case we don't impose anything on the travelers, we give them the opportunities to choose must see sites for them; and we're flexible in this direction. This flexibilities we have available is what they cannot enjoy with other tour companies in Washington DC. Rather they choose what they want you to see as the travelers.

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#13
Private Mount Vernon Tour for up to 10 Guests - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Private Mount Vernon Tour for up to 10 Guests - Additional view
Private Mount Vernon Tour for up to 10 Guests
2 Reviews

Embark on a historical journey to Mount Vernon, the estate of George Washington. This captivating tour brings history, culture, and natural beauty together as you explore the mansion, gardens, and grounds that Washington personally designed, offering stunning views of the Potomac River. Step back in time as you tour the preserved mansion, furnished with 18th-century period pieces. Learn about Washington's life, leadership, and impact on the United States from your knowledgeable guide. Visit the Slave Quarters and Memorial to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Mount Vernon's history. For 4 guests or fewer, you’ll ride in a luxury SUV. For 5 to 10 guests, you’ll enjoy a comfortable ride in a Mercedes Sprinter van. This immersive experience provides a unique glimpse into the life of one of America's greatest figures.

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#14
Rent an Electric Bike to See All of Washington - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Rent an Electric Bike to See All of Washington - Additional viewRent an Electric Bike to See All of Washington - View 3Rent an Electric Bike to See All of Washington - View 4Rent an Electric Bike to See All of Washington - View 5Rent an Electric Bike to See All of Washington - View 6
Rent an Electric Bike to See All of Washington
1 Reviews

Our location is unbeatable! We are located right off the highway coming into the city, and we have an inexpensive parking garage in the building where you can leave a car all day while you are out on a bike or scooter. We are also located right near the Foggy Bottom Metro station if you prefer to take the train in. We are 2 blocks from the National Mall, and you can bike or scooter directly onto a protected bike path to get there. We also have connectivity with the Georgetown Capital Crescent trail and the Mount Vernon trail.

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#15
Themed and Special Event Cruise in Chesapeake Bay - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Themed and Special Event Cruise in Chesapeake Bay - Additional viewThemed and Special Event Cruise in Chesapeake Bay - View 3Themed and Special Event Cruise in Chesapeake Bay - View 4Themed and Special Event Cruise in Chesapeake Bay - View 5Themed and Special Event Cruise in Chesapeake Bay - View 6
Themed and Special Event Cruise in Chesapeake Bay
1 Reviews

This cruise is a unique way to celebrate that special event in your life while cruising on your very own private sailing yacht. You and a guest or you and 5 of your best friends will all help you celebrate that birthday, anniversary, promotion or a honeymoon; all of this with the scenic historic Southern Maryland as your background. Complimentary snacks and water will be served along with a small cake to help you and your guests celebrate. COVID-19: These cruises will only be available to be booked by couples or families who reside in the same household and the maximum number of passengers can only be 5 persons.

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#16
Washington Private Pride Ride: LGBTQIA+ History by Electric Cart - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Washington Private Pride Ride: LGBTQIA+ History by Electric Cart - Additional viewWashington Private Pride Ride: LGBTQIA+ History by Electric Cart - View 3Washington Private Pride Ride: LGBTQIA+ History by Electric Cart - View 4Washington Private Pride Ride: LGBTQIA+ History by Electric Cart - View 5Washington Private Pride Ride: LGBTQIA+ History by Electric Cart - View 6
Washington Private Pride Ride: LGBTQIA+ History by Electric Cart
1 Reviews

Hop on an all-electric vehicle and cruise through the National Mall to explore DC’s LGBTQIA+ history. From pivotal protests to Pride celebrations, drive past iconic landmarks like the U.S. Capitol, Lincoln Memorial, and the Library of Congress while learning about the individuals and events that shaped the fight for justice and equality. Highlights: - Ride through the National Mall and discover DC’s pivotal role in LGBTQIA+ history - See the U.S. Capitol, Supreme Court, and White House to learn about LGBTQIA+ legislation - Pass by the National Gallery, Smithsonian, and Library of Congress, featuring works by prominent LGBTQIA+ artists - Cruise along the Tidal Basin with views of the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument

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#17
Assassinations Capital: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Assassinations Capital: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour - Additional viewAssassinations Capital: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour - View 3Assassinations Capital: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour - View 4Assassinations Capital: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour - View 5Assassinations Capital: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour - View 6
Assassinations Capital: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour
2 Reviews

This tour is recommended for ages 14+. Some of the most notorious crime scenes in DC are hidden in plain sight. Strolling from the Capitol to the White House, you'll see the locations of four presidential assassination attempts (and talk about some of the attempts outside of DC). Your guide will share the motives, the manhunts, and crazy coincidences that might have changed history forever.

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#18
Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot in Washington DC - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot in Washington DC - Additional viewHire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot in Washington DC - View 3Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot in Washington DC - View 4Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot in Washington DC - View 5Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot in Washington DC - View 6
Hire Photographer, Professional Photo Shoot in Washington DC
1 Reviews

Professional photo shoot in unique Washington DC locations. The Photo Experience will create amazing photo memories from your visit. You will be able to see undiscovered locations and get the best photo story from your Washington DC visit. We can tailor each photo shoot to meet your requirements; we can travel to your location or we can suggest a location for the photo shoot. Our Photoshoots are ideal for any Tourists - Solo Traveller - Couples - Groups - Hen/Bachelorette & Stag/Bachelor Parties - Families - Secret proposal/Engagement - Honeymoon - Experienced Influencers and Models - New Influencers and Models What's Included: A Private online viewing gallery - 1 hour = 20 Final photos* - 2 hours =30 Final photos* - 3 hours =40 Final photos* - 4 hours =50 Final photos* * same set of images - A unique location professional shoot experience - DELIVERY - Up to 14 days after photoshoot. What's Excluded: - Transportation - Entry fees

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#19
4 Hour Private Washington DC Tour - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.4 Hour Private Washington DC Tour - Additional view
4 Hour Private Washington DC Tour
1 Reviews

During this 4 hour tour we will spend time visiting President John F. Kennedy's grave site at Arlington National Cemetery, visit the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the US Capitol. Take a photo stop at the White House-Lafayette Square and conclude at the US Capitol-West Lawn.  Transportation and Private Guide are included in the price, and the Private Tour can accommodate up to 10 passengers all for the same price. The tour is geared toward those traveling as a family or group of friends or co-workers, not to exceed 10 passengers.

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#20
Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour - Top attraction in Washington, D.C.Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour - Additional viewPrivate 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour - View 3Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour - View 4Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour - View 5Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour - View 6
Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour
1 Reviews

With a private tour guide explore the Arlington National Cemetery during 2H. This guided experience provides historical and human perspectives of US nation’s leaders and protectors that make your visit exclusive and unique much more meaningful and informative. Your Tour Guide will respect your privacy whenever you will need.

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