Top Washington DC Day Trips

Follow in the footsteps of the nation's first president on this half-day history tour. Travel to Mount Vernon, George Washington's home in Virginia and one of the nation’s most beloved historic sites. Also enjoy a bus trip around Old Town Alexandria, where you see 17th- and 18th-century homes and discover little-known facts about the landmarks. Upgrade to add a Washington DC night tour to your itinerary, if you wish.

Step back in time to when George Washington was founding the United States when you take this tour of his former home, Mount Vernon, and Old Town Alexandria. See the 18th- and 19th-century buildings of Alexandria, including the Masonic Memorial dedicated to the first president. Then, tour the former estate of George Washington where you can learn about the story of his life and watch historic reenactments.

Experience Washington DC from a different perspective on this evening coach tour. Visit multiple sites when the crowds are lower and the atmosphere is a little more relaxed. Discover the highlights of the National Mall, including the White House, the US Capitol, and Lincoln Memorial. Make stops along the way for an up-close look, and learn more from your guide's commentary. Additionally, upgrade to include admission tickets to DC museums (for later, independent sightseeing).

Dive deeper into US history when you embark on this day trip from Washington DC to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Head north from the nation’s capital to Gettysburg National Military Park to learn about the Civil War and the 1863 battle that took place on those grounds. Watch a short film and then explore downtown Gettysburg before heading back down to Washington DC.

Pack two of Virginia’s natural must-sees into one full-day excursion with this guided tour of Luray Caverns and Shenandoah National Park’s gorgeous Skyline Drive. In Luray’s limestone caves, you’ll explore stalactites and other geologic formations before hitting the road to take in the spectacular views of Shenandoah National Park along the Skyline Drive.

Visit Mount Vernon, the historic home of George Washington, on this convenient 4-hour guided tour from Washington DC. Travel in comfort on a climate-controlled bus and enjoy a scenic drive through Old Town Alexandria, one of the region’s most charming and historic neighborhoods. Along the way, your knowledgeable guide shares insight into Washington’s life, leadership, and legacy before arriving at the Mount Vernon Estate, where admission tickets are included. Step inside the Mount Vernon Mansion with a guided tour, then explore the gardens, grounds, and outbuildings at your own pace. Highlights of the estate include the Tombs of George and Martha Washington, and slave quarters and memorial. Reenactments and immersive exhibits help bring the story of Washington’s life and the history of the estate to life.

See the moving Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns on a guided walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery. Be perfectly placed for good views of the moving ceremony, then continue to some of the cemetery's most important gravesites and memorials, including places dedicated to John F. Kennedy, the USS Maine, Second World War soldier Audie Murphy, and more, learning the fascinating history of the cemetery as you walk.

Visit George Washington’s historic home and estate with a 6-hour tour of Mount Vernon from Washington, D.C. Get a glimpse of the President’s life and work as you explore an elegant mansion furnished with period antiques and Washington’s personal belongings. Browse education exhibits at the onsite museum, and visit the tomb where George and Martha Washington were buried. Learn about the legacy of slavery at Mount Vernon in the slaves’ quarters, then tour the beautifully landscaped gardens and grounds before returning to D.C.

Step into the world of Thomas Jefferson with a day trip from Washington D.C. to Monticello, his meticulously designed mountaintop estate and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy included admission and a 45-minute official guided tour that brings Jefferson’s life, ideas, and influence on life through expert storytelling and preserved interiors. From architectural innovation to sweeping views of the Virginia countryside, Monticello offers a deeper understanding of one of America’s most complex founders. This thoughtfully planned experience provides a meaningful journey into U.S. history without the hassle of organizing transportation or tickets.

Take a hop-on hop-off Washington DC trolley tour to explore the nation’s capital at your own pace. The route encompasses the city’s top attractions, including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and more. Just hop off at any stop when you want to explore, and then hop back on the trolley to continue around the city. You can also upgrade to include Arlington National Cemetery entry.

Explore Shenandoah National Park on a private, fully personalized day trip from Washington, DC with your English-speaking local driver. Enjoy a flexible, door-to-door experience designed around your pace and interests, without crowds or fixed schedules. Travel into Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains and cruise along the legendary Skyline Drive, stopping at handpicked scenic overlooks for breathtaking views of the Shenandoah Valley. You may also visit Big Meadows for a gentle walk through open fields and forest trails, with opportunities for wildlife spotting and photos. A stop near Luray can be added for refreshments or a short countryside break. Throughout the day, your driver shares local insights while adapting the route to your preferences. After a relaxing day immersed in nature, you’ll be comfortably returned to your accommodation in Washington, DC—refreshed by mountain scenery and fresh air.

Venture beyond Washington DC city limits—and explore some of the nation’s key historical landmarks—on this half-day coach tour. Pick between morning and afternoon departure times, and set off via the George Washington Memorial Parkway: you’ll spy landmarks like the Robert E. Lee Childhood Home, George Washington Masonic National Memorial, and Alexandria’s Christ Church. Upon arrival, go for a self-led audio tour of Mount Vernon’s grounds and museum.

See a different side of Washington DC, and beat the daytime crowds, on a nighttime coach tour of the city's top sights. Travel in a standard vehicle, or upgrade for one with a glass roof. Along the way, gaze at floodlit memorials and monuments, such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial. Have time for photo stops, and learn more from your guide's narration en route.

Discover the best of Washington DC all in one day on this time-saving, multi-stop tour. Drop by the city’s top landmarks and monuments, from the White House and the US Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and beyond. Explore on foot and by comfortable bus, or upgrade to travel by glass-topped vehicle for unimpeded views. This tour also includes a seasonal Potomac River cruise for a new perspective on the nation's capital.

Escape the city and explore Washington DC’s nearby wine country on this day trip to Loudon County. Visit three wineries and enjoy discounted tastings (or try the all-inclusive upgrade) at each, and also have time to explore the vineyards. Ride in comfort roundtrip on a coach bus and let someone else take care of the driving and navigation so you can drink worry-free at each stop.

Explore 10 iconic Washington DC landmarks in just four hours with a professional guide! Travel comfortably in a 12-passenger van, stopping outside historic sites like the US Capitol, White House, and Lincoln Memorial. Enjoy expert commentary, photo opportunities, and learn the rich history of each location. Convenient pickup and drop-off at the Washington Grand Hyatt.

Step away from the city and experience the peaceful traditions of the Amish Country on this full-day trip from Washington, DC. Travel through the rolling countryside of Lancaster County and visit an Amish village and working farm. An optional guided countryside bus tour, farmhouse visit, and farm tour provide a deeper understanding of Amish history, values, and daily life. Enjoy time at the Bird-in-Hand Farmers Market, where you can browse local foods and handmade goods. With curated stops and comfortable transportation, this tour offers a rare look into one of America’s most distinctive cultures.

Explore the many famous monuments and memorials of Washington, DC by moonlight on this narrated sightseeing tour. Hop aboard an open-air trolley and get an educational and entertaining rendition of the storied history of the nation’s capital. Take in views of an illuminated Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the White House, and more. Leave the brochure at home—your guide has way better stories.

Step into American history with admission to Mount Vernon, the home of the nation’s first president—celebrated as first in war, first in peace, and a lasting symbol of integrity and honor. This immersive experience pairs a guided exploration of George Washington’s estate with a visit to the charming streets of Old Town Alexandria, where colonial architecture and waterfront views bring the past to life. Your tour is led by world-renowned archaeologist and historian Dr. Yohannes Zeleke, offering expert insight and storytelling that elevates each stop along the journey.

See the best of Washington DC in comfort, style, and at your own pace. This private 5-hour experience is perfect for guests who want to explore the city’s most iconic landmarks without the crowds or rush of large group tours. Travel comfortably between major sites, enjoy flexible stops, and take a relaxing break with a built-in lunch stop along the way. Whether it’s your first time in DC or you’re returning for a more personalized experience, this tour is designed to give you a smooth, enjoyable, and memorable day in the nation’s capital.

Experience some of the most popular attractions in Washington, DC like an insider on this full-day sightseeing tour. Begin with a tour of the United States Capitol Building; admission tickets are prebooked for a seamless visit. Then, see the city’s most famous landmarks and monuments aboard a comfortable coach, including the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and more. Then, end your tour with a visit to the National Archives Museum.

See Washington DC’s top historical highlights in one day—and continue to George Washington’s former estate, Mount Vernon—on this comprehensive tour. Leave the driving to someone else, and hop aboard a comfortable coach in the morning: view landmarks like the Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial, and make quick stops at the White House, US Capitol, and more. Then, head to Mount Vernon for a self-guided audio tour of the estate.

Explore George Washington’s historic estate with your own personal tour guide during this half-day private excursion to Mount Vernon from Washington D.C. Enjoy a comfortable and scenic ride to the Founding Father’s Virginia plantation in an air-conditioned van. Enrich your visit with a guided tour of the mansion and an audio tour of the grounds before heading back to your D.C. hotel.