Adventure Collective
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(Glass Roof / Open-Top) Best of DC • VIP Tour + U.S. Capitol/National Archives Entry

Washingtoneasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; walkers should be comfortable standing for periods and boarding boats.

Overview

Discover Washington D.C. from a fresh perspective on this exclusive boat tour combined with VIP access to the U.S. Capitol and National Archives. Perfect for history lovers and photographers alike!

Boat Tour
Bus Tour
Scooter
Shuttle
Walking Tour
Washington, District of Columbia

(Glass Roof / Open-Top) Best of DC • VIP Tour + U.S. Capitol/National Archives Entry

8.5 Hours • All Ages • Boat Cruise + Inside Tour of National Archives & US Capitol Buildings!

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About This Adventure

Experience Washington DC like never before on this comprehensive day tour! Enjoy reserved access to the U.S. Capitol and National Archives while exploring iconic landmarks from a luxury convertible bus. With seasonal highlights like a Potomac River cruise or a visit to the Kennedy Center, this tour promises unforgettable memories.

Fully Guided • Luxury Buses • Award-Winning

Get the presidential treatment with our most comprehensive Washington DC day tour, hitting all the highlights from the comfort of a luxury glass-top or open-top convertible bus led by a driver/guide in one! Includes reserved access to the US Capitol Building and the National Archives Building!

Our convertible bus offers a unique sightseeing experience with an open-air view when weather permits, and a climate-controlled, glass-top roof for comfort during sudden weather changes.

Seasonal Note: Convertible buses switch from open-tops to glass-tops between October 15 and April 1 to accommodate colder temperatures.

Duration

8.5 Hours

Tour Details

  • Your VIP experience begins at with reserved access to the US Capitol Building!
  • Your next stops are the White House, the United States Capitol grounds, and the National World War II Memorial
  • Along the way, you will see the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, the Canadian Embassy, the National Gallery of Art, the headquarters of the American Red Cross, the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), and the Organization of American States (OAS)—just to name a few sites. Onward, to the Jefferson Memorial
  • Once you have marveled at the Jefferson Memorial, we will visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial just across the Potomac Tidal Basin
  • On the walking segment of the tour, you will stop by the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and via a nice stroll along the tree line, you will emerge in front of the Lincoln Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • For a unique experience, this tour offers two great seasonal activities for lunch: a leisurely boat cruise on the Potomac River (Seasonal: April 1 to October 15) or a visit to the Kennedy Center (Seasonal: October 16 to March 31st) to explore their exhibits, iconic terrace for citywide views, and discounts at their shops!
  • Second to the last stop is the Franklin Delano Roosevelt (FDR) Memorial, which will take you back in time to the years 1933-1945
  • For the final stop, we’ve arranged reserved access to the National Archives Building!
  • Please note that his tour is conducted with a luxury glass-top or open-top convertible bus led by an expert local tour guide and designated driver
  • Convertible buses switch from open-tops to glass-tops between Oct 15 - Apr 1 due to colder temperatures

FAQs

ARE WE ALLOWED TO BRING BABY STROLLERS AND/OR WHEELCHAIRS ON BOARD THE TOUR VEHICLES? Unfortunately, our shuttles are not wheelchair accessible, nor is there storage for baby strollers. If you have a wheelchair, please call us to make special vehicle arrangements for your tour. Some of our tours involve longer walks so if you like, you may stay on board the shuttle, near the landmark, without exiting the shuttle bus every time.

ARE WE ALLOWED TO BRING CARRY-ON LUGGAGE ON THE TOUR VEHICLE? Our shuttle buses and vans do not have storage for accommodating carry-on bags. We ask that you only bring purses, briefcases, or backpacks for your tour; Please note that USA Guided Tours reserves the right to inspect any bags, book bags, briefcases or backpacks you carry.

HOW LONG DO WE STAY AT EACH STOP? It depends on the stop. Your tour guide will tell you the planned amount of time for each stop. We have allowed enough time on every stop for you to walk around and take plenty of pictures!

Wheelchair accommodation: Currently, our vehicles are not equipped with lifts, ramps, or other ADA-compliant features. If you are bringing a foldable wheelchair, mobility scooter, or walker, your driver will prepare an area inside the bus where your mobility device will be stored. You will be required to board and disembark the bus on your own or with the assistance of a traveling companion.

Adventure Tips

Arrive early for prime seating

Getting to the dock early ensures you have the best spots on the open-top boat for optimal views.

Dress for the weather

Bring layers or sun protection depending on the season, especially since parts of the tour are outdoors.

Bring your camera

Capture stunning photos of DC's monuments and skyline from the water—an experience you'll want to remember.

Book in advance

Private tours fill quickly, so reserve your spot well ahead of your planned visit.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bald eagles
  • Great blue herons

History

The Potomac River has been a vital waterway since colonial times, shaping Washington’s development and providing a scenic route for exploration.

Conservation

US Guided Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, including responsible waste disposal and supporting local conservation initiatives.

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Adventure Hotspots in Washington D.C.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Sun protection

Essential

A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen help protect you from sun exposure while on the water.

summer specific

Layered clothing

Essential

Dressing in layers ensures comfort as temperatures fluctuate during the day.

spring|fall|winter specific

Camera or smartphone

Essential

Capture memorable moments and stunning views from the boat and landmarks.

Light rain jacket

Be prepared for sudden showers or wind along the river.

spring|fall|winter specific