Private Washington DC Tour with Changing of the Guard Ceremony

If you’re considering a trip to the nation’s capital and want to make the most of your limited time, a private Washington DC tour that includes the Changing of the Guard Ceremony might be just what you need. This guided experience promises a personalized approach to seeing the highlights of DC, with the added gravitas of witnessing the ceremonial changing of the guard at Arlington Cemetery.

What’s especially appealing about this tour? First, it’s fully customizable—you get to tell your guide what interests you most, whether that’s history, politics, or just capturing great photos. Second, the expert guidance makes all the difference, turning what could be a rushed sightseeing day into an engaging and informative exploration.

One thing to keep in mind is that, since this is a private experience, the cost (around $490 for up to 10 people) can seem steep at first glance, but the tailored attention and access to key sites make it feel like good value for a comprehensive city overview.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want an intimate, flexible way to see DC’s most famous landmarks, learn some fascinating details, and enjoy a more relaxed pace than group bus tours usually allow. It’s particularly suited for those who might want to include special stops or have specific questions about the sites.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: The tour is customizable, letting you focus on the sites that interest you most.
• Expert Guide: A licensed tour guide provides insightful commentary, making history come alive.
• Includes Iconic Ceremonies: Witness the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery.
• Flexible Schedule & Pickup: You choose the timing and pickup location within the DC metro area.
• All Major Landmarks Covered: From the White House to Lincoln Memorial, and the war memorials.
• Comfort & Convenience: Transportation includes WiFi, mobile charging stations, and bottled water.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Itinerary

This tour offers a blend of iconic sights, meaningful ceremonies, and insightful commentary—all wrapped into about four and a half hours of flexible sightseeing. The best part? You can tailor what you see and do, making it a truly personalized experience.

Starting at Lafayette Square and the White House

Your journey kicks off at Lafayette Square, right across from the White House. Here, your tour guide will set the scene with interesting facts about the neighborhood, including notable landmarks like Saint John’s Episcopal and the President’s Church. You’ll have plenty of time to stroll Pennsylvania Avenue, soaking in the atmosphere of one of the most recognizable addresses in the world.

Reviews highlight how knowledgeable guides make these moments special. Kevin_M, for instance, mentions how personable the guide was, making the experience both educational and enjoyable. You’ll get a sense of what goes on behind the scenes at the White House—the international press, the West Wing, and the historic Old Executive Building—without the need for tickets or lines.

Driving Along Pennsylvania Avenue

From Lafayette Square, your guide will take you on a narrative drive down Pennsylvania Avenue, passing by notable buildings such as the City Hall, Waldorf Astoria, and the FBI Building. While driving, you’ll get context about the city’s political and civic centers, which adds depth to your sightseeing.

The U.S. Capitol

Next, you’ll stop at the U.S. Capitol, where you can walk up the Westside façade—an impressive vantage point. This is the spot where presidents take their oath every four years. The views of the National Mall and the Washington Monument are spectacular. Though ticketed entry isn’t included, the proximity of the stop allows you to appreciate the grandeur and importance of the building.

Monuments and Memorials

The tour weaves through some of DC’s most famous monuments:

• National World War II Memorial: Opened in 2004, this circular plaza features columns representing each state and territory, linked by a bronze cord symbolizing unity. Reviewers love how the memorial’s symbolism of strength and victory resonates.

• Lincoln Memorial: A classic stop, this neoclassical temple honors the 16th president. The imposing statue and the reflective pool create iconic photo opportunities. Visitors often find this a moving site—Mario_F notes how their guide kept their son engaged here.

• Vietnam and Korean War Memorials: These sites honor veterans and provide poignant moments of reflection. The Vietnam Veterans Memorial’s black granite wall is especially moving, serving as a solemn reminder of sacrifice.

• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: Completed in 2011, this tribute celebrates the civil rights leader’s legacy. The memorial’s location amidst cherry blossom trees in spring makes it a favorite for visitors, as Liz_R mentions.

Arlington National Cemetery and Changing of the Guard

Crossing the Potomac via Memorial Bridge, you’ll arrive at Arlington Cemetery for a 1.5-hour walk through the grounds. The highlight is witnessing the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier—a solemn, powerful ceremony. Many reviews rave about how memorable this moment is, with Chad_T describing it as an experience they’ll never forget.

For those wanting to see the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial instead, a quick option is available. It depicts Marines raising the flag on Iwo Jima, a scene etched into history. This site honors Marines who have served since 1775, and the scene itself is a striking tribute.

Other Memorials and Final Stops

Further stops include the Air Force Memorial, with its striking stainless-steel spires, overlooking the Pentagon. The memorial is a tribute to the service members of the Air Force and adds a modern touch to the collection of monuments.

Customization and Flexibility

One of the defining features of this tour is its flexibility. You can tell your guide what sites interest you most, and they’ll adjust the itinerary accordingly. Many reviews mention how accommodating guides like Louie and Jack personalized the experience, bypassing sites they had already seen or adding special stops—for example, a visit to the Basilica or extra photo stops.

What Travelers Say About This Tour

The overwhelmingly positive reviews underscore the tour’s quality. Kevin_M highlights how personable and informative the guide was, while Michael_P appreciated the enthusiasm and attention Frank brought to the experience. Mario_F points out how Louie kept their son engaged, a big plus when sightseeing with kids or less patient travelers.

Multiple reviews emphasize how well-organized and friendly the guide is, with many noting the convenience of private transportation and the comfort it adds. The ability to customize the experience means you can focus on what matters most to you, whether that’s history, politics, or memorials.

Most travelers feel this tour provides excellent value for the cost, especially given the private, personalized service, and the comprehensive list of sites visited. The inclusion of the changing of the guard at Arlington is often cited as a highlight, adding emotional depth to the day.

The Practicalities: What You Need to Know

The tour costs around $490 for up to 10 people, which sounds steep initially but can be quite reasonable if you’re traveling with a group. With private pickup and drop-off, WiFi, mobile charging, and bottled water included, it’s designed for comfort and convenience, making your sightseeing as smooth as possible.

Since tickets to the White House and Capitol are not included, you’ll need to plan for those separately if you wish to go inside. The focus here is on viewing, appreciating the exteriors, and understanding their significance—perfect for a sightseeing overview.

The duration of about 4.5 hours means you’ll cover a lot but with enough flexibility to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed. The private nature of the tour means your guide can adapt to your pace and interests.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This private tour is perfect for those who want a personalized, flexible, yet thorough introduction to Washington DC. It’s especially well-suited for families, couples, or small groups wanting an intimate experience with a knowledgeable guide. History buffs and first-timers will appreciate the depth of information, while travelers looking for an emotional connection—like witnessing the changing of the guard—will find it particularly meaningful.

If you value comfort, customization, and expert guidance, this tour delivers. It also works well for travelers who prefer avoiding large bus crowds and want to focus on quality over quantity.

The Sum Up

Choosing a private Washington DC tour offers a relaxed and tailored way to explore a city bursting with history, politics, and memory. The inclusion of landmarks like the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and Arlington Cemetery—paired with a knowledgeable guide—makes for an insightful, memorable experience. The ceremony at Arlington’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is a powerful moment that many reviews highlight as a highlight of their trip.

While the price may seem high, the private nature of the tour means your group gets undivided attention and flexibility to focus on what interests you most. It’s ideal for travelers who want a well-rounded overview with the option to personalize the day, making sightseeing feel less like a checklist and more like a meaningful exploration.

If you’re after a convenient, informative, and respectful way to take in Washington DC’s most significant sites, this private tour ticks all those boxes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Yes, many reviews mention how guides like Louie kept younger travelers engaged, making it a good option for families. The tour is private, so it can be tailored to suit children’s needs.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers private transportation with WiFi, mobile charging stations, bottled water, and a licensed guide. Entry tickets to sites like the White House and Capitol are not included.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Absolutely, the tour is designed to be flexible. Just let your guide know what sites or interests you want to prioritize.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, allowing ample time to see major sights at a comfortable pace.

Are parking or entrance tickets included?
No, entrance tickets for the White House and Capitol are not part of the package. Parking depends on site availability and is typically not included.

What if I want to change my plans last minute?
Since the tour is private and customizable, your guide can adjust the plan if given enough notice, but cancellations or changes less than 24 hours in advance are unlikely to be refunded.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Most sites are accessible, but since the itinerary involves walking and some standing, it’s best to discuss specific needs with the provider beforehand.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot through the Viator link or contact Journal Tour & Travels directly at +15712538345 or via email at [email protected].

This private DC tour really offers a tailored way to see the city’s highlights while respecting your pace and interests. If you’re after an educational yet relaxed sightseeing experience, it’s worth considering.