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12 Best Bus Tours From Washington DC

Washington DC is a great city for bus tours. You can see all the major sights in just a few hours, and there are plenty of companies offering tours. In this post, we’ll recommend some of the best bus tours from Washington DC, and tell you what to expect from each one.

So whether you’re looking for a comprehensive tour that takes in all the sights, or something a little more specialized, we’ve got you covered!

Famous Tourist Destinations In Washington DC

Side view of Capital Building

Washington DC is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. Every year, millions of people come to the nation’s capital to see the iconic landmarks and historical sites. 

Among the most popular attractions are the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Lincoln Memorial. Visitors can also take a tour of the United States Mint or visit one of the many museums, including the Smithsonian Institution. There is something for everyone in Washington DC, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country.

Which Popular Destinations Can Be Visited On A Bus Tour From Washington DC?

People boarding Sightseeing bus
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There are a number of popular destinations that can be visited on a bus tour from Washington DC. Some of the most popular destinations include Philadelphia, New York City, and Boston

These cities are all within a few hours’ drive of Washington DC, making them ideal for a day trip or weekend getaway. Bus tours from Washington DC typically depart from Union Station, which is located just a short walk from many of the city’s major tourist attractions. 

In addition to being a convenient way to travel, bus tours from Washington DC offer a great value for money. Tickets for these tours can often be purchased for less than the cost of a train or plane ticket, making them an affordable option for budget-minded travelers.

Top 12 Best Bus Tours From Washington DC

The Big Bus on a street giving a tour
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These are the best bus tours from Washington DC:

1. Best of DC Tour: 

This tour covers all the major monuments and landmarks in the city, including the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Lincoln Memorial.

2. Historic Philadelphia Tour: 

This tour takes you to one of America’s most historic cities, where you can see Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and other iconic sites.

3. Gettysburg Battlefield Tour: 

This tour takes you to one of the most important battlefields of the Civil War, where you can learn about the history of this pivotal conflict.

4. Amish Country Tour: 

This tour takes you to Pennsylvania Dutch country, where you can learn about the Amish culture and see some of their traditional crafts.

5. New York City Tour: 

This tour takes you to America’s biggest city, where you can see landmarks like the Empire State Building and Times Square.

6. Boston Freedom Trail Tour: 

This tour takes you to one of America’s most historic cities, where you can walk the Freedom Trail and see sites like the Paul Revere House and Fenway Park.

7. Niagara Falls Tour: 

This tour takes you to one of the world’s most famous natural wonders, where you can see the majestic falls and learn about their history.

8. Chicago Architecture Tour: 

This tour takes you to one of America’s most architecturally-rich cities, where you can see iconic buildings like the Willis Tower and the Sears Tower.

9. San Francisco City Tour: 

This tour takes you to one of America’s most beautiful cities, where you can see landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and Alcatraz Island.

10. Hollywood Tour: 

This tour takes you to the heart of America’s movie industry, where you can see iconic landmarks like Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and the Hollywood Sign.

11. Las Vegas Strip Tour: 

This tour takes you to America’s Sin City, where you can see the famous hotels and casinos along the Las Vegas Strip.

12. Grand Canyon Tour: 

This tour takes you to one of the world’s most amazing natural wonders, where you can see the vast canyon and learn about its history.

See Related: Best Trolley Tours in the United States

What Is The Cost Of A Bus Tour Ticket From Washington DC?

Big Bus Washington DC tour bus parked

The cost of a bus tour ticket from Washington DC will typically depend on the length and scope of the tour. 

For example, a two-hour tour of the city’s landmarks may cost around $30 per person, while a full-day tour that includes stops at Mount Vernon and other outlying attractions may cost closer to $100. 

Discounts are often available for seniors, children, and members of large groups, so it is always worth checking for special rates before booking a tour. 

In addition, many tour companies offer package deals that include transportation, accommodations, and other activities, so it is worth investigating these options as well. 

By doing a bit of research, it is usually possible to find an affordable bus tour that meets your needs and budget.

See Related: How to Take a Bus from Washington DC to Philadelphia

Which Time Of The Year Is Best To Take A Bus Tour From Washington DC?

People exploring city on bus
4kclips / Shutterstock.com

When it comes to bus tours from Washington, DC, the time of year you visit can make a big difference. Spring is a popular time to travel, as the weather is pleasant and the flowers are in bloom. However, this can also mean that prices are higher and crowds are larger. 

Fall is another popular time to visit, as the leaves are changing color and the temperatures are cooler. However, this can also mean that traffic is heavier and there may be more construction projects underway. 

For those looking to avoid the crowds and save some money, winter or early spring may be the best time to take a bus tour from Washington, DC. The weather may not be ideal, but there will be fewer tourists and rates will be lower. 

Whatever time of year you choose to visit, a bus tour from Washington, DC is sure to be an enjoyable experience.