DC: Hop-on Hop-off Bus, Arlington Walking Tour, and Night Tour

Setting out on a tour of America’s capital often involves a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and stories — and doing it efficiently can be a challenge. This package, combining the Big Bus hop-on hop-off with a guided Arlington Cemetery walk and a panoramic night tour, promises a comprehensive experience that balances flexibility with guided insight.

We’re impressed by how well this tour caters to varied interests — from iconic monuments to historic cemeteries, all illuminated at night. Two standout features are the unlimited hop-on, hop-off flexibility and the knowledgeable guides that make history come alive. On the downside, the night tour isn’t hop-on hop-off, so if you prefer to linger at each site, that’s something to consider. This tour suits travelers who want a broad, immersive overview of DC’s highlights while enjoying some guided storytelling and stunning evening views.

Key Points

• Flexibility: Unlimited hop-on, hop-off access allows you to customize your sightseeing pace.
• Comprehensive: Includes iconic landmarks, Smithsonian Museums, memorials, Arlington Cemetery, and illuminated city sights.
• Guided Insight: The Arlington Cemetery walk features a local guide, adding depth to your understanding of this historic site.
• Value for Money: Bundling these experiences together provides significant savings compared to booking separately.
• Night Tour: Offers a spectacular view of DC’s landmarks lit up, perfect for evening photography or a romantic atmosphere.
• No Hotel Pickup: You’ll need to plan your transportation to and from the starting point at Union Station.

A Practical Overview of the Tour

This package offers a well-rounded way to explore Washington DC, especially for visitors who value flexibility and a variety of experiences. Priced at $75 per person, this bundle includes a 24, 48, or 72-hour hop-on hop-off bus ticket (valued up to $83), a 2-hour night tour, and, during September and October, a guided walk of Arlington Cemetery.

The big appeal here is the unlimited hop-on hop-off feature on the open-top double-decker bus, which means you can hop off at major attractions like the Smithsonian Museums, the Library of Congress, or several memorials, then hop back on when you’re ready. The digital commentary in multiple languages enriches the experience, providing context without the need for a guided tour at every stop.

The night tour, lasting just about 2 hours, offers a unique perspective — seeing landmarks like the Washington Monument, Iwo Jima Memorial, and Georgetown beautifully lit up. Keep in mind, it’s a fixed route, so it’s not hop-on hop-off, but the views are worth the ride.

The Arlington Cemetery walking tour is a highlight if you’re visiting in September or October. Led by a local guide, it’s a chance to grasp the stories behind the graves of heroes and the significance of the site. When not guided, a self-guided digital tour is also available, making it accessible even if you prefer to explore at your own pace.

Breaking Down the Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Union Station – your gateway to the city’s transport network and a convenient meeting point. Arriving there, you’ll find yourself in the heart of DC, ready to explore.

Big Bus Route Highlights: The bus stops are designed to give you panoramic views of the city’s most famous sights. From the moment you climb aboard, you’ll appreciate the open-top design, which offers unobstructed vistas. The digital commentary, available in several languages, helps you understand what you’re seeing without constantly pulling out a guidebook.

Iconic Sights & Stops: You’ll pass by the White House, Capitol Building, and memorials along the National Mall. The flexibility to hop off allows you to visit Smithsonian Museums or take a quick walk around the Library of Congress without rushing. This is practical for those wanting to hit specific spots or take memorable photos.

Arlington Cemetery Walking Tour: This is a layered experience. The guided walk offers insights into the history of the cemetery, its notable graves, and the stories behind them. As one reviewer noted, guides like Erica are “amazing,” turning a visit into an educational experience. The 2-hour duration is enough to see key areas and gain a meaningful understanding.

Night Tour: As the sun sets, the city transforms. The night tour showcases illuminated landmarks, providing a different perspective from daytime sightseeing. The views of the Washington Monument, Iwo Jima Memorial, and Georgetown are especially striking against the night sky, making this a memorable way to end your day.

The Value of This Experience

For $75, you’re getting an all-encompassing taste of DC that wouldn’t be as easily achieved if you pieced together separate tickets. The inclusion of a digital commentary in multiple languages*** enhances accessibility and understanding, especially for international visitors. The free Oval Office commemorative photo at the White House Gifts shop adds a fun souvenir, making your visit a bit more personal.

The unlimited biking offer is an unexpected bonus for active travelers. Rent a bike for an hour and get another free, which is perfect for exploring areas like the Tidal Basin or Georgetown at your own pace.

The reviews speak volumes about the quality of guides and the views. Kathleen_A, for example, calls the tour “a great way to see DC,” praising guides for making the experience memorable. The positive feedback about the views and the flexibility suggests this tour hits a sweet spot for most visitors.

Practical Tips for Your Tour Experience

• Book in advance, as most travelers reserve about 17 days ahead. This ensures you secure your preferred dates and combo options.
• Start early: the tour begins at 6:30 pm, so plan to arrive at Union Station a little earlier to get settled.
• Activate your ticket: either through the Big Bus app or check-in with staff at Union Station.
• Plan for the night tour: dress warmly if visiting in cooler months and bring your camera for night shots.
• Arlington Cemetery: if you’re visiting in September or October, don’t miss the guided walk; otherwise, the digital tour is a good alternative.
• No hotel pickup: make arrangements to get to Union Station, which is near many public transportation options.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This combo is ideal for first-time visitors seeking a broad overview of DC’s most famous sights, with the flexibility to explore at your own pace. If you’re interested in history, the Arlington Cemetery tour adds depth, especially when guided. The night tour’s illuminated vistas appeal to romantics or anyone wanting a visually stunning ending to their day.

It’s particularly suited for travelers on a limited schedule who want a comprehensive experience without spending a fortune on multiple tickets. Those who prefer guided storytelling over pure self-guided exploration will find the guides’ insights add meaningful context to the sights.

However, if you prefer private or small-group tours or hotel pickups, you might want to consider other options, as this experience doesn’t include transportation to or from your hotel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, this tour starts at Union Station, so you’ll need to arrange your own transportation there.

How long can I stay on the bus?
You get a 24, 48, or 72-hour hop-on hop-off ticket, perfect for exploring at your own pace over multiple days.

Does the night tour include stops?
No, the night tour is a 2-hour route on the open-top bus, and it’s not hop-on hop-off. You stay on for the duration.

Can I do the Arlington Cemetery walk on other days?
Yes, in September and October, the guided walk departs at 1 pm from Arlington Visitors Center. Outside of those months, a self-guided digital tour is available.

What’s included in the bundle?
Your package includes the hop-on hop-off bus, the night tour, and the Arlington Cemetery walk (seasonal). It also offers a free Oval Office photo and digital commentary.

Is this experience suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, although the length and walking involved might be challenging for very young children.

Can I activate my ticket on the bus?
Yes, either through the app or with the driver/staff at Union Station or any stop.

How do I know when the bus is coming?
The free app provides live bus tracking and route info, making it easy to catch the next bus.

What is the group size limit?
The maximum number of travelers per booking is 50, ensuring a comfortable experience without overcrowding.

Final Thoughts

This combination of a hop-on hop-off bus tour, guided Arlington Cemetery walk, and illuminated night tour makes for a well-rounded, flexible way to enjoy Washington DC. The value is clear, especially with the included extras like digital commentary and the souvenir photo. The guided element at Arlington gives a meaningful layer of understanding, elevating the experience beyond just sightseeing.

For those who want to see the highlights at their own pace but also appreciate expert insights, this tour ticks the boxes. The views at night are truly special, and the flexibility of the hop-on hop-off system means you can tailor your day to your interests.

While it’s not suited for those seeking a private or fully tailored experience, it offers excellent value and a good balance of guided and independent exploration. This tour is especially recommended for first-timers eager to get a broad sense of DC’s history, monuments, and vibrant neighborhoods.

Whether you’re a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply a traveler wanting a convenient way to see the city, this package deserves serious consideration.