Holiday Lights Tour of Washington DC and Old Town Alexandria

Traveling during the holiday season? If you’re craving a cozy way to see some of the city’s most iconic Christmas displays without the hassle of walking or driving, the Holiday Lights Tour of Washington DC and Old Town Alexandria is worth considering. This guided, 3-hour excursion takes you through the city’s most dazzling seasonal sights, all from the comfort of a climate-controlled luxury bus.

While it might not be the perfect fit for everyone—especially if you’re looking for a more intimate or flexible experience—it offers a convenient way to experience DC’s holiday spirit, especially if you’re short on time or traveling in a group. We particularly love the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to see multiple decorated sites without the stress of navigating yourself. However, some reviews point out that it can get crowded and that the experience could be improved with earlier start times or better sound equipment.

This tour tends to suit visitors who want a relaxed, guided overview of the city’s sparkling Christmas attractions, especially those who appreciate some festive cheer combined with a touch of education. If you’re looking for a straightforward, family-friendly outing or a way to gather memorable photos, it’s a good choice—just keep in mind the potential crowd levels and the timing.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transportation: The tour uses a climate-controlled luxury bus, making it easy to stay warm and dry during winter evenings.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Many reviews highlight the guide’s ability to share interesting facts and keep the mood lively.
• Multiple Photo Opportunities: Stops at major sites like the White House, Capitol, and Alexandria’s Market Square offer great chances to take holiday photos.
• Limited Flexibility: You can’t hop off the bus at every stop, which might be a downside if you’re keen on exploring certain areas in more depth.
• Timing & Crowd Levels: Some travelers find the late start (7:30 pm) inconvenient and note that it can get crowded, making it tough to hear or get a good view.
• Value for Money: At $69 per person, many feel this is a reasonable price for the convenience and variety of sights offered.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Starting Point: US Navy Memorial

The tour kicks off from the US Navy Memorial at 7:30 pm. From here, you’ll board a spacious, climate-controlled bus equipped for winter evenings. The start time is a little later in the evening, which some might find a bit inconvenient, especially if you prefer an earlier overview of the lights or have an early bedtime.

Stop 1: National Christmas Tree

Your first stop is at the National Christmas Tree, located near the White House, surrounded by a Pathway of Peace featuring 56 smaller trees representing U.S. states and territories. This stop is often praised for its festive atmosphere and impressive display. Many reviews mention that the guide shares interesting trivia here, adding depth to the experience.

Stop 2: CityCenterDC

Next, you’ll visit CityCenterDC for a quick look at their Christmas Tree. It’s a smaller, more modern setting, but the holiday decorations are still well worth a quick photo. This stop offers a glimpse into the city’s urban holiday decor, and many travelers comment on the cheerful ambiance.

Stop 3: U.S. Capitol

One of the tour’s highlights is an outside view of the Capitol Christmas Tree. It’s a striking sight, especially at night, with many appreciating how this iconic building forms a part of the holiday scene. You’ll get about 20 minutes here, which is enough for a few photos and to admire the festive setup.

Stop 4: Alexandria Farmers Market (Old Town)

A favorite among visitors, the stop at the Old Town Alexandria’s Market Square offers a chance to observe the city’s beloved Christmas centerpiece. This guided stop allows for some walking, which many found helpful for stretching their legs and capturing more photos. One review mentioned it as an iconic part of the tour, adding a charming small-town holiday vibe.

Stop 5: Embassy Row—Canadian Embassy

Here, you’ll see the Canadian Embassy’s Christmas Tree, often noted for its festive charm and the opportunity to appreciate diplomatic holiday decor. It’s a relatively quick stop but provides a nice contrast to the Washington displays.

Final Stop: Capitol Christmas Tree

The tour concludes with a look at the Capitol Christmas Tree on the West Lawn, a grand finale for many. It’s an impressive sight that caps off the evening’s lighting displays.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The Guided Narrative
One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guide. Many mention their guide’s ability to share interesting facts and keep the mood upbeat. Elvis, in particular, seems to be a crowd favorite, bringing fun and personality to the experience. The live commentary adds a layer of context that you simply wouldn’t get if you were just walking around on your own.

Multiple Iconic Sights in One Trip
This is especially helpful if you’re visiting DC for a short time or want a quick snapshot of the city’s holiday displays. The tour hits all the highlights—White House, Capitol, National Harbor, and Alexandria—all decorated for Christmas.

Comfort & Convenience
The bus is described as comfortable and climate-controlled, so even in cold weather, you can relax rather than shivering outside. That’s a plus, especially if you’re traveling with children or elderly family members.

The Downsides to Keep in Mind

Crowd Levels and Timing
Some reviews point out that the tour can feel crowded, especially toward the back of the bus, making it hard to hear the guide or see the displays clearly. The late start time—7:30 pm—might not suit everyone, particularly early risers or visitors with tight schedules.

Limited Flexibility
Since you can’t hop off the bus at every stop, you may find some areas less accessible for extended exploration. If you prefer to linger longer or wander around more freely, this tour might feel a bit rushed.

Sound Quality & Group Size
A few travelers mention that the sound system could be better, and larger groups (up to 55 people) might compromise intimacy and clarity during commentary.

Price & Value
At $69 per person, the price strikes many as reasonable considering the number of sites and the guided aspect. However, some feel that for a more personalized experience, a smaller group or earlier start might be preferable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who enjoys holiday lights and wants a curated, hassle-free way to see DC’s most festive displays, this tour is likely a good fit. It’s particularly suitable for visitors who appreciate guided commentary, want to avoid the cold while still experiencing the sights, and are comfortable with a group setting.

Those traveling with children might enjoy it too, especially since the tour is mostly outdoor and on a warm bus. But if you’re after a more intimate experience, or if you prefer to explore at your own pace, you might want to look for alternatives.

Final Thoughts

The Holiday Lights Tour of Washington DC and Old Town Alexandria offers a balanced mix of convenience, festive cheer, and educational commentary. It’s a practical way to see many of DC’s holiday displays without the hassle of navigating on your own. Many travelers rave about their guides’ knowledge and the beautiful sights, making it a memorable holiday outing.

That said, the late start time and potential crowding are worth considering. If you’re okay with a group experience and want a straightforward way to soak up the season’s glow, this tour is a solid choice. Just plan for the weather, arrive early, and enjoy the holiday spirit from the comfort of a cozy bus.

FAQ

What is the meeting point for the tour?
The tour starts at the US Navy Memorial at 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You need to meet at the designated location.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 7:30 pm.

Are children allowed on the tour?
Yes, children can participate but must be accompanied by an adult.

Can I get off the bus at stops?
No, this is a guided bus tour where you stay on the bus and view most sights from the windows or from outside during stops.

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
The tour uses a climate-controlled bus, but since it involves stops outside and limited walking, travelers with mobility challenges should assess their comfort level.

What is the price of the tour?
Tickets are $69.00 per person, which is generally considered reasonable for a guided tour with multiple stops.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it’s free to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is the best way to prepare for the tour?
Dress warmly, arrive early, and bring a camera for all the beautiful holiday lights and decorations.

If you’re looking for a convenient, festive way to see Washington DC’s holiday lights with a knowledgeable guide and a comfortable ride, this tour could be a good pick. Just keep in mind the timing and crowd considerations—it’s a cheerful, easy outing that many find well worth it.