Hop-On Hop-Off 21 Stop Trolley Tour + Arlington Cemetery

If you’re planning a trip to Washington DC and want to see the main sights without the hassle of navigating public transport or squeezing into crowded buses, this hop-on, hop-off trolley tour might catch your eye. It promises a flexible way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and includes a visit to Arlington National Cemetery — a powerful addition that many travelers find meaningful.

What we genuinely like about this experience is its self-paced nature, letting you decide how long to stay at each stop. Plus, the live narration provided on board keeps the journey informative, making it more than just a scenic ride. However, a potential hiccup is the inconsistency reported by some reviews—like stops being blocked or timings not always matching expectations. That said, it’s still a solid choice for those who want a broad overview of DC without strict schedules.

This tour is particularly suitable for visitors who value flexibility and convenience. If you prefer to create your own itinerary, see many landmarks at your own pace, and include Arlington Cemetery as part of your day, you’ll likely find this tour worthwhile. It also works well if you’re traveling with a group that appreciates guided commentary, but be aware that some reviews mention logistical issues with stop access or timing.

Key Points

• Flexible self-paced touring with hop-on, hop-off convenience
• Includes transportation to Arlington National Cemetery
• Live narration enhances the experience with engaging stories and facts
• Good value for money at around $70 per person, especially if you want to see many sites
• Accommodation for collapsible strollers and service animals makes it family-friendly and accessible
• Some stops may experience issues with accessibility or timing, so expect potential delays

What Is This Tour All About?

This trolley tour offers a simple but effective way to see Washington DC’s highlights over about 2.5 hours, with the freedom to hop on and off at 21 different stops. The price is around $69.70 per person, which, considering transportation and guided narration, can be quite reasonable. It’s a mobile ticket experience, so you can start your sightseeing whenever you’re ready after booking.

The inclusion of Arlington Cemetery is a major perk, offering a transportation service from the Lincoln Memorial, plus a guided tour of the cemetery itself. This allows you to pay your respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, visit the JFK Gravesite, and see the Arlington House — all without the stress of organizing separate transport.

How the Itinerary Shapes Your Day

The tour covers all the big landmarks and districts you’d want to explore in DC:

• Starting at the Washington Welcome Center, a logical first stop for information and orientation.
• You’ll pass the White House, with stops nearby like the 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, where you can get out and see the iconic residence.
• The National Archives and the Navy Memorial are also on the route, enriching your understanding of the nation’s history.
• Stops at the Smithsonian museums—including the Air/Space Museum and American Indian Museum—make it easy to sample some of the city’s best cultural offerings.
• The Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are all part of the route, giving you options for powerful photo moments.
• The International Spy Museum is an added attraction that appeals to those fascinated by espionage and secret histories.

When it comes to Arlington National Cemetery, the tour includes a transfer from the Lincoln Memorial, along with a shuttle service, making it straightforward to visit this somber site.

What to Expect at Each Stop

Most stops are significant landmarks or cultural institutions, and the live narration helps to set the scene. For instance, at the White House, you’ll hear about its history and current use. At the Capitol, you get insights into the legislative process and the building’s architecture. Stops at memorials like the Washington Monument, Jefferson, Lincoln, and MLK Memorials are all about honoring American history and inspiring reflection.

The Arlington Cemetery segment is particularly poignant — you’ll get a ride from Lincoln Memorial to Arlington, followed by a self-guided tour through the grounds, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and JFK Gravesite. Multiple reviews mention the value of this inclusion; one traveler noted it “allows you to self-guide through the cemetery and see the changing of the guard.”

The Experience on Board

The trolley itself is described as comfortable, clean, and capable of accommodating collapsible strollers, which is helpful for families or travelers with mobility aids. The live narration adds a layer of engagement — the guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the journey more than just a moving billboard.

However, the reviews also reveal some logistical issues. There are reports of stops being blocked by food trucks, making it difficult to find the correct location. Some travelers waited over an hour at certain stops, and a few experienced frustration with website discrepancies or unannounced schedule changes. For example, one customer warned, “Don’t book through Viator, just buy tickets when you arrive,” due to confusion over stop locations.

Timing is another consideration. Buses run every half hour, so if you’re rushing or trying to see everything in one go, it might feel a little rushed. On the upside, many reviews highlight the short wait times and friendly drivers, which can make your day flow smoothly if things go as planned.

The Value for Money

At nearly $70 per person, this tour offers a rundown of DC’s main sights with the flexibility to explore at your pace. When you consider the inclusion of Arlington Cemetery — a significant historical site that usually requires separate transportation — the value increases. It’s especially appealing for those who want a guided narrative, as opposed to just self-driving or wandering around blindly.

Some travelers suggest that choosing to start at Union Station or the Welcome Center can make your experience easier, avoiding confusion about stop locations. The ability to hop on and off as often as you like is a big plus, especially if you’re interested in lingering at certain landmarks for longer periods.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you love guided tours that let you control your timeline, and you’re interested in seeing both the iconic monuments and Arlington Cemetery without fussing over transportation, this is a good pick. It’s also suitable for families with collapsible strollers and travelers who value live commentary.

However, be aware that some users experienced challenges with schedules and accessibility issues at certain stops. If you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more predictable, organized experience, you might want to consider booking directly through the trolley company or exploring other options.

Final Thoughts

This hop-on, hop-off trolley tour of Washington DC hits the sweet spot for many visitors. It offers an affordable way to get around, see key landmarks, and learn about the city’s history through engaging guides. The inclusion of Arlington Cemetery is a meaningful addition that elevates the experience, especially if you’re interested in American history and memorials.

While some logistical issues have been raised, overall, most travelers seem satisfied with the friendly drivers, clean buses, and flexibility. It’s a good choice if you want to see the sights at your own pace, with the convenience of narrated commentary and easy access to major attractions.

For those who prefer a structured, all-in-one tour with minimal planning, this might be just what you need. But if you’re concerned about potential delays or stop accessibility, consider planning extra time or verifying the stops in advance. Either way, it’s a solid, practical way to spend a day exploring Washington DC.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 3 and under can participate for free, and the trolley can accommodate collapsible strollers, making it manageable for families with young kids.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended — most travelers book about 18 days ahead — to secure your spot and ensure availability.

What does the tour include?
It includes live commentary on board, hop-on hop-off access at 21 stops, and transportation to Arlington National Cemetery. Food, drinks, and parking are not included.

Can I use this tour if I have mobility issues?
While the trolley can accommodate collapsible strollers, some reviews mention that the cemetery and certain stops might be challenging if you have mobility concerns.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Service animals are allowed, but no emotional support animals or pets are permitted. Also, some stops may be blocked or difficult to access due to local circumstances.

What is the duration of the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, but with hop-on, hop-off flexibility, your total time can vary.

Is Arlington Cemetery included in the ticket?
Yes, transportation to Arlington National Cemetery and a shuttle service from Lincoln Memorial are included, allowing you to explore the grounds at your own pace.

What if I miss my scheduled stop or the trolley?
There’s no guarantee, as some reviews report delays or missed stops. It’s best to stay alert and plan some buffer time in case of schedule changes.

Can I cancel or change my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours before are non-refundable.

In essence, this tour balances flexibility with educational content, making it a good fit for travelers eager to see the highlights of Washington DC without the high cost of private tours. Just keep an eye on logistical details, and you’ll likely enjoy a memorable day in the nation’s capital.