DC: Hop-On Hop-Off with 17 Stops plus Arlington Walking Tour

Traveling to Washington DC? Then this hop-on hop-off tour might be just the way to see the city without the hassle of planning every step. Offered by Big Bus Tours, this experience promises an easy, flexible way to tick off the major landmarks, with the bonus of exploring Arlington National Cemetery on foot.

What drew us in? First, the panoramic views from the open-top bus—there’s nothing quite like cruising past the monuments with the wind in your hair. Second, the ability to hop off at any stop lets you explore at your own pace, perfect for snapping photos or spending extra time at favorites.

A potential consideration? The bus route runs in one direction, which might mean backtracking if you want to revisit certain sites. Also, for those planning a tight schedule or who dislike guided audio commentary, this could feel a bit limiting.

This tour suits travelers who want a rundown of DC with the flexibility to customize their sightseeing day. It’s especially handy for first-timers or those with limited time who want to maximize their visit without missing key landmarks.

Key Points

• Flexible hopping on and off at 17 iconic stops around the National Mall.
• Includes a 2-hour Arlington Cemetery walking tour led by a local guide—deeply moving and educational.
• Open-top double-decker bus provides great views and engaging audio commentary in multiple languages.
• Affordable pricing at $49 per person, offering good value considering the number of sights covered.
• Official National Park Services partner, ensuring close access to major landmarks and free museums.
• Buses arrive regularly, minimizing wait times and making it easier to plan your day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Washington DC in Comfort and Style

First off, if you’re like us, the idea of navigating DC’s traffic and parking can be daunting. This hop-on hop-off bus offers a stress-free way to see the city—just sit back, relax, and enjoy the views from the open-top deck. With a 2-hour Arlington walking tour included for certain tickets, it’s a well-rounded option that brings history to life.

The routes cover all the must-see landmarks—Lincoln Memorial, White House, Washington Monument, FDR Memorial, and more. The audio commentary enhances the experience, providing background stories and details in several languages. As one reviewer put it, “The commentary was very good, informative and timely,” which adds a lot to the sightseeing without the need for a guide physically present.

What really stands out is the ability to hop on and off as you please. If a particular site captures your interest, just leave the bus, explore, and catch the next one when you’re ready. This flexibility is especially valued by travelers who prefer a mix of guided sightseeing and spontaneous exploration.

The Stops and What to Expect

Starting Point and Route

Your tour begins at a designated meeting point, which could vary depending on the ticket option you choose. The buses are designed in bright, recognizable colors, and with real-time bus tracking available on the Big Bus app, you’ll know exactly when your next bus arrives.

The Major Landmarks

• Lincoln Memorial: The highlight for many. You can get up close to Honest Abe, walk through the memorial, and take photos with the reflecting pool in the background. As a reviewer mentioned, “We could go up and see him,” which shows how accessible these sites are from the bus stops.
• The White House: While the bus doesn’t go right up to the residence, you’ll pass by Lafayette Square, and many find just seeing it from a distance worthwhile.
• Washington Monument: Look out over the Reflecting Pool, just as Martin Luther King Jr. did during his famous speech. The views here are iconic.
• Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial & FDR Memorial: Located near the Tidal Basin, these are accessible from the stops. Many visitors enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and the powerful symbolism.
• Capitol Building & Museums: The tour gets you close enough to admire the Capitol and surrounding Smithsonian museums, which are also part of the city’s highlights.

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Stops That Matter

According to reviews, the buses run with good frequency—about every 20 minutes—so you’re rarely left waiting long. One reviewer shared, “More frequent buses than expected,” which adds to the convenience.

What to Do When You Hop Off

You can spend as long as you like at each site—take photos, walk around, or just enjoy the moment. At the Lincoln Memorial, you’re free to ascend and get a closer look, while at the MLK and FDR memorials, you can take your time absorbing the atmosphere.

Arlington National Cemetery: The Walking Tour

For many visitors, Arlington Cemetery is a moving experience, and this tour really emphasizes its significance. Led by a local expert guide, the 2-hour walking tour takes you through the grounds, sharing stories of notable figures buried there and explaining military traditions.

One review describes it as “a deeply moving experience” with lots of learning and inspiration. Key sites like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Kennedy gravesites are highlighted, providing a sense of respect and reflection.

The tour departs at 1 PM from the Visitors Center and is included in the 48/72-hour ticket options. For those who prefer self-guided exploration, a digital tour is also available, giving some flexibility.

Additional Perks and Practical Details

• Audio commentary aboard the bus is available in multiple languages, making it accessible for international visitors.
• You get a free Oval Office commemorative photo if you opt for the 48/72-hour tickets—this is a nice memento.
• Bike rental offers an extra way to explore, with a free hour included.
• Real-time bus tracking on the app helps you plan your stops and minimizes waiting time, a feature praised by many.

However, keep in mind that hotel pickup isn’t included, so you’ll need to meet at the designated stops. Also, non-folding strollers aren’t allowed onboard, which is important for families with small children.

Analyzing the Value

At $49 per person, many reviews agree this is a good deal, especially considering the access to major landmarks and flexibility. Some mention that combining it with other activities, like museum visits or Arlington’s walking tour, helps fill an entire day without rushing.

What travelers really appreciate is the convenience—no need to worry about parking or navigating DC traffic. The buses are frequent, and the audio guides provide enough context to make the stops meaningful, even if you’re not a history buff.

Some users note that the route runs in one direction, which could be a drawback if you want to revisit a site or prefer a circular route. But overall, the balance of price, accessibility, and coverage tends to satisfy most visitors.

Who Will Get the Most Out of This Tour?

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors who want a broad overview without the stress of figuring out transportation. It’s also suited to those who enjoy a flexible, guided experience but with the freedom to explore on their own.

If you’re a history enthusiast or want to spend significant time at specific sites, this setup allows you to hop off and linger. Conversely, if you prefer a more structured or private tour, other options might suit better.

Final Thoughts

In the end, this Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off offers a straightforward, budget-friendly way to soak in Washington DC’s most important sights. The combination of open-top sightseeing, engaging commentary, and the Arlington Cemetery walking tour makes it a well-rounded experience.

While the route’s one-way nature might be a small inconvenience for some, the overall flexibility and access make it worth considering, especially if you’re visiting for a short period or want a gentle introduction to the city. The reviews highlight that most find it a valuable investment, with many praising the guides, views, and easy-to-use app.

For travelers seeking a stress-free, comprehensive tour with the chance to explore at their own pace, this offers good value—and a memorable way to see DC.

FAQ

Is there hotel pickup included?
No, the tour does not include hotel pickup. You will need to meet at the designated starting point, which varies depending on your ticket.

How long is the Arlington Cemetery walking tour?
The Arlington tour lasts 2 hours and departs at 1 PM from the Visitors Center. It is led by a local expert guide and included with 48/72-hour tickets.

Can I hop off the bus at any stop?
Yes, with your ticket, you can hop on and off at any of the 17 stops around the National Mall as many times as you like during the ticket validity.

What languages are audio guides available in?
The audio commentary is available in multiple languages, including Spanish, French, German, Portuguese, and English.

How often do buses arrive?
Buses typically arrive every 20 minutes, making it easy to plan your visits without long waits.

What is the price of the tour?
The standard price is $49 per person, which many reviews consider good value for the access, flexibility, and included Arlington tour.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the open-top bus and historical sites are suitable for most age groups. Keep in mind no non-folding strollers are allowed onboard.

Can I combine this with other activities?
Absolutely. Many guests use it as a base to visit museums, walk around memorials, and explore Arlington. It pairs well with self-guided walks or additional paid tours.

Whether you’re a history lover, a first-time visitor, or someone who prefers to see the sights without the hassle, this tour offers a practical and enjoyable way to take in Washington DC. Just remember to plan your stops and take advantage of the flexibility to make your day truly your own.

You can check availability for your dates here: