Sightseeing Tours in Washington, D.C.

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Activities found:22
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Self-guided audio tour
2 – 2.5h
The National Mall: Reflecting on the Memory and Values of the Nation
$9per tour
5.0
Self-guided audio tour
2.5 – 3h
Georgetown in 3 Hours: Exploring the Coziest Neighborhood of the Capital City
$9per tour
Entry ticket + Audio tour
2 – 4h
National Air and Space Museum Reservation & In-App Audio Tour
$9per person
4.0
Self-guided audio tour
1h
Congressional Cemetery: a High-Spirited Walk with Stories of Extraordinary Lives
$9per tour
Self-guided audio tour
1.5h
Explore Capitol Echoes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
1.5h
Explore Hallowed Echoes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
40m
Uncover Secrets with the Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
1h 15m
Discover Blossoms & Monuments: D.C. In-App Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
2h
Uncover The Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
40m
Discover Georgetown's Kennedy Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
20m
Uncover Secrets with In-App Audio Tour of City Parks
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
20m
Uncover Mysteries: D.C. In-App Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
20m
Uncover Mysteries with the Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
20m
Uncover the Secret Gardens: Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
1h
Uncover Secrets with Embassy Row In-App Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
40m
Uncover Dickens' Witty Critique: DC Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
35m
Discover Monumental Washington: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
1h
Discover Phantom Presidents: A White House In-App Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
15m
Discover Hidden Stories: Lafayette Park In-App Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
Self-guided audio tour
2h
Discover Icons of Freedom: DC In-App Audio Tour
$10.58per tour
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Most recommended in Washington, D.C. Sightseeing Tours
The National Mall: Reflecting on the Memory and Values of the Nation
The National Mall: Reflecting on the Memory a...

Discover the symbolic architecture of the historical memorials on the National Mall in Washington with the help of this comprehensive self-guided audio tour. You will find yourself right in the heart of America's democracy and learn about the meaning of the National Mall, which embodies the country's rich heritage and principal ideals. You will reflect on the past, present, and future of the United States, starting your journey at the foot of the Capitol Building by the Monument of Ulysses S. Grant — the 18th president of the United States. You will proceed to the Lincoln Memorial, a pivotal moment in American history that pays tribute to some of its heroes. This architectural tour will help you get insights into the emblematic landmarks' design and understand the messages they communicate. Uncover how architects tell stories and convey emotions and discover the United States reflects on its past on a journey along the National Mall.

Georgetown in 3 Hours: Exploring the Coziest Neighborhood of the Capital City
Georgetown in 3 Hours: Exploring the Coziest ...

Welcome to picture-perfect Georgetown in Washington D.C.! This audio tour will walk you along the cobbled streets and distinguished houses to introduce notables who lived or worked there and give a glimpse of the neighborhood's history. The tour begins near the Old Stone House, the oldest one in Georgetown, and the whole city. Next, you will cross the iconic tranquil Chesapeake & Ohio canal that evokes Venice. From there, you will get to Washington Harbor, the popular leisure area with a vista of the Potomac River and the site of the city's biggest ice rink. Take pictures in front of Georgetown University, the oldest Catholic and Jesuit university in the U.S. founded in 1789 that boasts world-famous alumni like Bill Clinton and Bradley Cooper. Passing by the beautiful Volta Bureau building, where famous Alexander Bell researched into deafness, you will discover his accomplishments apart from inventing the telephone. Walking up and down the streets, you will meet the Kennedy family and see the Federal-style houses they lived in before and after the White House. Near one of them, you will admire the imposing Dumbarton House where the United Nations charter was mapped out to be signed in San Francisco in 1945. Finally, you will spot the tiny Old Wooden House built before the Civil War, which is one of the oldest in the city. Join the tour and experience the storied past and present of this charming historic district in the United States' capital!

National Air and Space Museum Reservation & In-App Audio Tour
National Air and Space Museum Reservation & I...

Take this in-app audio tour of the best air and space museum in the world to spot its jewels and must-sees! Note! The museum has a free (!) admission. By buying this in-app audio tour, you get the reserved entry required by the museum and audio commentary along a planned route! The tour starts at the America by Air Exhibition where you will see aircraft that revolutionized transportation: Ford Tri-Motor, Boeing 247 etc. You will then learn how a dream of flying became a reality at the Early Flight and the Wright Brothers exhibits. This enabled different ways that everyone can fly and the diversity of careers in aviation, shown at the We All Fly Gallery. Next, you will get higher into space and hear about the exploration of Mars while walking through martian landscapes and rovers at the Exploring the Planets Gallery. The culmination of the tour is the Destination Moon which celebrates the first lunar landing in 1969. Here, you'll find artifacts like Neil Armstrong's spacesuit and the Apollo 11 Command Module Columbia. Finish the tour by admiring the full-size X-Wing Starfighter from Star Wars and strolling under the shiny satellites overhead at the One World Connected exhibit. Note! This tour is not affiliated with the NASM, but submitted by an independent creator.

Congressional Cemetery: a High-Spirited Walk with Stories of Extraordinary Lives
Congressional Cemetery: a High-Spirited Walk ...

Walk through the cemetery where the stories of the famous come to life with this in-app audio tour! Led by a public radio reporter, this tour will introduce you to the colorful characters for whom the Congressional Cemetery became a final resting place. From the Prince of Bummers to the designer of the U.S. Capitol, each stop on the tour offers a unique perspective on Washington's history. You'll start at the Accordion headstone, one of the cemetery's quirkiest features, before paying your respects at the grave of John Philip Sousa, the King of the March. From there, you'll "meet" the charming 19th-century grifter and learn about the mechanics of grave robbing. You'll also hear the story of a pioneer in photojournalism whose work you may carry in your pocket every day. As you wander through the cemetery, you'll hear Dr. William Thornton, the designer of the U.S. Capitol, "speaking" about his attempt to resurrect George Washington. You'll also "meet" John Edgar Hoover, the legendary FBI director who took down some of the most notorious gangsters of the 20th century. The tour ends at the grave of Leonard Matlovich, the "face of homosexuality in America" in the 1970s. Matlovich's bravery and activism for gay rights made him a symbol of hope for a generation.

Explore Capitol Echoes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Explore Capitol Echoes: A Self-Guided Audio T...

Discover the echoes of democracy and the pivotal sights of Capitol Hill with this immersive in-app audio tour. This experience caters to history enthusiasts and political aficionados seeking an in-depth exploration of the January 6th insurrection events, revealing the landmarks that served as silent observers to these critical moments in American history. Starting at the illustrious Willard Hotel and culminating at the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, the route takes listeners on an insightful passage around the U.S. Capitol, where corridors of power have shaped the nation. Along your journey, you will tread the very ground that has witnessed grand political ceremonies and unexpected acts of history, providing a profound sense of the political and cultural evolutions that define Washington D.C. Linger at the Senate Chamber, the Capitol Reflecting Pool, and the path less traveled by beneath the Capitol's imposing edifice, each offering its own story and connection to the country's legacy. The memorable experiences will include standing before the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, contemplating the whispers of past Congressional debates, and retracing the steps of crucial political figures whose decisions continue to resonate within the fabric of American society.

Explore Hallowed Echoes: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Explore Hallowed Echoes: A Self-Guided Audio ...

Step into the heart of history with 'Explore Hallowed Echoes,' a tour crafted for anyone with a passion for delving deep into the soul of America through its monuments. This audio tour invites history enthusiasts to embark on a reflective journey through Washington D.C.'s iconic landmarks, honoring the narratives of valor woven into the nation's fabric. The route commences grandly at the Lincoln Memorial, capturing the essence of American democracy and leadership, then proceeds solemnly to the tributes at the Korean and Vietnam War Veterans Memorials, echoing the unspoken stories of sacrifice and unity. Winding along the Reflecting Pool, the tour intimately connects participants with the silent sentinels of the past, leading from the serene waters that mirror the sky to the grounded memorials that mirror the nation's soul. The starting point at the Lincoln Memorial sets the stage, with the path concluding at the vivid tableau of service and courage represented by the statues and the Pool of Reflection at the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Each step is a step through time, offering an unbroken narrative of the nation's historical milestones. Travelers will depart with lasting impressions of granite guardians and bronze soldiers, entwined with the personal and collective memories they embody. The stillness of the Reflecting Pool stands in contrast to the powerful echoes of history, ensuring that the journey is as moving as it is memorable. Embrace the quiet dignity of these hallowed places, and carry with you the profound reflections stirred by the stories of those commemorated along the way.

Uncover Secrets with the Lincoln Assassination Self-Guided Audio Tour
Uncover Secrets with the Lincoln Assassinatio...

Dive into the depths of an event that shook America on this Self-Guided Audio Tour exploring the Lincoln assassination. Perfect for history enthusiasts and curious explorers, this tour is guided by Rick Snider, who has a personal connection to the fateful night as a descendant of both John Wilkes Booth and Mary Surratt. Participants will gain insights into what drove Booth to commit such an act, and whether his motives were of a madman, a revengeful actor, or something more complex. The tour starts at Rathbone House, including sites like the White House and Seward’s House, and culminates with the dramatic flight of Booth down Baptist Alley. The route ensures travelers know where to commence and conclude their historical exploration, starting at the stately facade of Rathbone House and ending at the very alley that served as Booth’s escape route. Along the route, participants will stand before grand facades and venture through alleyways that echo the past. The tour offers a tapestry of sensory experiences that forge a timeless bridge to history, from the stoic pillars of the Treasury to the bustling scene at Ford's Theatre. Discover the intersection of tragedy and resilience, and gain a palpable connection to one of America's most pivotal moments.

Discover Blossoms & Monuments: D.C. In-App Audio Tour
Discover Blossoms & Monuments: D.C. In-App Au...

Delve into the scenic beauty and historical significance of Washington D.C.'s Tidal Basin with this immersive in-app audio tour. Designed for those interested in experiencing the picturesque landscapes and learning the rich stories behind the historic sites, the tour caters to enthusiasts of nature's splendor and history's depth. Starting at the Japanese Lantern and ending at the Floral Library, this tour weaves through the cherry tree-lined paths and past majestic monuments that tell the tales of America's past. You'll set off near the intersection of Maine Avenue and Raoul Wallenberg Place and embark on a journey through this beautiful area, punctuated by moments in time captured by memorials and gifts of friendship. Notable stops include the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, with its four unique rooms, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. The path also reveals lesser-known gems like the stone Japanese Pagoda and a glimpse into cherry tree care, showcasing the labor of love that keeps the Tidal Basin's iconic blossoms flourishing. Along the way, the audio guide will share engaging stories and historical facts that enrich the visual experience. This self-paced narrative will leave you with lasting impressions, from the tranquility of the Tidal Basin's waters to the symbolic cherry trees that celebrate international friendship.

Uncover The Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Uncover The Tidal Basin: A Self-Guided Audio ...

Delve into the Tidal Basin's rich legacy with the 'Uncover The Tidal Basin' in-app audio tour, designed for history enthusiasts and casual explorers alike. By following the narrative of the memorials' stonework, listeners will immerse themselves in the American past as each monument reveals a chapter in the nation's story. This tour is a captivating encounter with iconic figures and significant historical moments narrated through the Tidal Basin's memorials. The journey spans from the serene Japanese Lantern Garden to the commanding presence of the Jefferson Memorial. Along the circular path around the Tidal Basin, you begin your exploration amidst the tranquility of nature and gradually step into the echoes of the past. The route directs you past commemorations of pivotal leaders and events, leading up to the majestic tribute to one of America's great founding fathers. In wrapping up the tour, the memories of walking in the shadows of history's giants and the sensory delights of reflective waters, echoing waterfalls, and grand vistas will linger. You will not only see history carved in stone but will also feel and understand the ideals and struggles that have shaped America.

Discover Georgetown's Kennedy Legacy: A Self-Guided Audio Tour
Discover Georgetown's Kennedy Legacy: A Self-...

Delve into the captivating history of John F. and Jackie Kennedy with this self-guided audio tour through Georgetown's picturesque streets. History buffs and casual explorers alike will find themselves transported back to the era of Camelot, uncovering the intimate chapters of a legendary couple's life in the nation's capital. The journey commences at the Holy Trinity Church, a place of significance to the Kennedys, and weaves through the neighborhood, eventually concluding at the Newton Baker House on N Street. Along the way, travelers will encounter the Kennedys' various homes, Martin's Tavern where the couple's engagement was kindled, and locations pivotal to their personal and public lives. The route promises a seamless blend of historical insight and visual charm, revealing the Georgetown of yesteryear and today. You'll relish moments like standing before 3307 N Street, where the couple lived pre-White House, and passing by Jackie's post-presidency home, reminding us of the enduring imprint they've left behind. Capturing the essence of the Kennedys' Georgetown, the tour not only educates but also invites you to witness the legacy that still whispers through these storied streets.

Reviews about activities in Washington, D.C.

Overall rating
4.4
20 ratings 6 reviews
16
5
0
4
2
3
0
2
2
1
Anonym
July 2023
5
National Museum of the American Indian In-App Audio Tour
I would definitely recommend this tour. Had some technical difficulty getting the audio for the tour initially, but got it sorted quickly.
Gary
October 2024
3
National Air and Space Museum Reservation & In-App Audio Tour
Mispronouncing words is very distracting. Not much depth to the tour. Felt myself wanting about 2x more info.
Anonym
March 2023
3
Smithsonian National Museum of American History In-App Audio Tour
Tour was pretty good. It definitely needs to be updated starting with the first exhibit the Bat Mobile that isn’t even there anymore. Overall it was ok. If I go again I’ll il just go where I want and read the information at each display which was great.
Andre
June 2024
1
National Air and Space Museum Reservation & In-App Audio Tour
The museum not identified the tickets as some valuable ones…we didn’t enjoy the attraction as had been promised. We have paid for nothing.

Attractions in Washington, D.C.

Self-guided tours
Entrance tickets

Best Washington, D.C. Sightseeing Tours

Discover the heart of American history with our comprehensive self-guided audio tours. Explore the iconic landmarks at your own pace.

National Air and Space Museum Reservation & In-App Audio Tour

What is it?
An immersive guided exploration of aviation and space milestones.
Why you should go?
Embark on a celestial journey at the best air and space museum known globally, delving into the marvels of flight and space exploration. As you commence at the America by Air Exhibition, the spectacles of ingenuity like the Ford Tri-Motor and Boeing 247 unfold before you. Discover the pivotal transition from early flight to wide-ranging aviation careers within the We All Fly Gallery. Ascend further into the cosmos, marveling at the Martian landscapes within the Exploring the Planets Gallery. The pinnacle of the tour, Destination Moon, celebrates humanity's giant leap, showcasing the Apollo 11 Command Module and Neil Armstrong's spacesuit. Culminate your tour under satellites and the Star Wars X-Wing Starfighter, a nod to imagination's flight.

Georgetown in 3 Hours: Exploring the Coziest Neighborhood of the Capital City

What is it?
An enchanting stroll through Georgetown's storied streets.
Why you should go?
Step into the cobblestone charm of Georgetown, where the past embraces the present. From the oldest Old Stone House to the picturesque Chesapeake & Ohio canal, this tour is a journey through time and culture. Gaze upon academia at Georgetown University, explore the legacies at Volta Bureau, and trace the footsteps of the Kennedys. Behold, the United Nations' blueprint at Dumbarton House, and unravel wartime tales near the Old Wooden House. Each turn is a page in the narrative of this historic enclave, inviting you to uncover its secrets and splendor.

The National Mall: Reflecting on the Memory and Values of the Nation

What is it?
An insightful architectural tour of America's symbolic heartland.
Why you should go?
The National Mall stands as the canvas of America's story. This audio tour offers a reflective journey from the Capitol's footsteps to the soaring Lincoln Memorial. Appreciate the Mall's architecture and gain insight into the nation's triumphs and trials. Understand the narratives woven into each structure and how they honor the ideals, heroes, and history of the United States. By connecting the physical splendors with the ideals they represent, this tour provides a profound appreciation for the memory and values commemorated along this famed expanse.

Washington DC In-App Audio Tour: Top Landmarks of the US Nation's Capital

What is it?
An engaging tour through the pivotal landmarks of Washington, D.C.
Why you should go?
Experience Washington, D.C.'s essence, from political powerhouses to cultural treasures. Journey back to the city's Parisian-inspired origins and explore the canvas of national identity. Marvel at influential art, stroll through vibrant Chinatown, and reflect on dramatic historical moments at Ford's Theatre. Witness the seat of presidential power at the White House, the legislative soul at the Capitol, and monumental views along the National Mall. The Library of Congress and Supreme Court embody scholarly pursuits and judicial authority, ensuring an enriching conclusion to this capital city exploration.

Congressional Cemetery: a High-Spirited Walk with Stories of Extraordinary Lives

What is it?
An evocative narrative through a historic Washington graveyard.
Why you should go?
The Congressional Cemetery hosts a procession of America's noteworthy figures. This audio tour revives their tales, from visionary architects to celebrated composers like John Philip Sousa. Unearth the curious craft of grave robbing, reconcile the intricacies of photojournalism's beginnings, and listen to posthumous "accounts" from those instrumental in shaping the nation. The touching homage to Leonard Matlovich, a brave gay rights activist, culminates the experience, leaving visitors with an enduring resonance of courage and identity.

Washington DC Monuments & Memorials Architectural Walk

What is it?
An in-depth look at the history and architecture of DC's renowned sites.
Why you should go?
Embark on an enlightening stroll through Washington, DC's monumental core. This audio tour weaves through the National Mall's memorials, capturing the spirit of American history through its architecture. You'll start at the powerful Lincoln Memorial, visit the profound World War II and Vietnam Veterans Memorials, and conclude at the iconic United States Capitol. Along this curated route, you'll discover the narrative of the nation, making it one of the best Washington, D.C. sightseeing tours.

DC Lafayette Square: Secrets and Shadows Tour

What is it?
A journey uncovering the covert tales of power near Lafayette Square.
Why you should go?
Unlock the hidden tales of intrigue with this unique tour. From secret societies to clandestine events, the 'Secrets and Shadows' audio tour highlights the lesser-known narratives surrounding Lafayette Square. As you move from garden to landmark, become part of Washington's untold stories, making this one of the top sightseeing tours in Washington, D.C. for those seeking the obscure and covert histories of the nation's capital.

Georgetown Ghostly Shadows: A Nighttime Walking Tour

What is it?
A chilling night tour unraveling Georgetown's haunted past.
Why you should go?
Dive into the supernatural side of Washington, D.C. with the 'Georgetown Ghostly Shadows' tour. This bewitching audio guide leads you through dark streets and past storied houses, wrapped in tales of specters and eerie lore. Encounter haunted hangouts and historic corners that give this nighttime walk its reputation as one of the best Washington, D.C. sightseeing tours for thrill-seekers and ghost story enthusiasts.

Discover Monumental Washington: A Self-Guided Audio Tour

What is it?
A visual and narrative stroll among D.C.'s architectural triumphs.
Why you should go?
Experience an architectural deep dive with 'Discover Monumental Washington,' an audio exploration of the capital's monolithic structures. From the White House Visitor Center to the Jefferson Pier Marker, each step along this tour spotlights the neoclassical influences and historical tales that define the city's silhouette. It stands as one of the top sightseeing tours in Washington, D.C. for its revealing glance into the artistic and civic splendor.

Discover Icons of Freedom: DC In-App Audio Tour

What is it?
An inspiring journey through monumental symbols of America's heritage.
Why you should go?
Trace the enduring story of freedom in 'Discover Icons of Freedom,' a thoroughly narrated audio tour across Washington, D.C.'s landscape of liberty. From White House to Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, absorb the significance of the National Mall's landmarks. It ranks among the best Washington, D.C. sightseeing tours for those who wish to pay homage to the legacy of American identity and democracy.

TOP-5 most rated Sightseeing Tours in Washington, D.C.

• Dive into aerospace marvels at the National Air and Space Museum with an audio tour highlighting iconic exhibits like the Wright Brothers' inventions and the Apollo 11 Command Module. • Stroll through Georgetown's charming cobbled streets, exploring its rich history, from the Old Stone House to the legacies of the Kennedys, making it a traveler's favorite. • Reflect on American history at the National Mall with a tour that takes you from Capitol Hill to the Lincoln Memorial, delving into the stories behind these iconic monuments. • Uncover the essence of D.C.'s power and culture with the Washington DC In-App Audio Tour, featuring insights into landmarks such as Ford’s Theatre and the Library of Congress. • Take a spirited walk in the Congressional Cemetery, where the stories of notable figures, from John Philip Sousa to J. Edgar Hoover, enliven the echoes of the past.

TOP-5 new Sightseeing Tours in Washington, D.C. for experienced tourists

• Explore the stars and skies with the National Air and Space Museum Audio Tour; it's a gateway to the universe through the eyes of aviation pioneers and space explorers. • Delve into Georgetown's history on cobblestone paths, historic homes and storied residents of the capital's oldest neighborhood in a 3-hour audio journey. • Experience the National Mall's profound symbolism and architecture, reflecting the memory and values of the nation on a narrated audio tour. • Discover the top landmarks of the US Nation's Capital with an in-depth audio tour of D.C.'s historical and cultural sites, from the arts to the halls of power. • Meander through the Congressional Cemetery with tales of renowned figures in a narrative that brings the past and its characters to life.

FAQ

Apart from sightseeing tours, Washington, D.C. offers an array of activities including museum visits, attending theater performances, exploring the city’s culinary scene, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. The Smithsonian museums are a treasure trove for the culturally curious, while the Kennedy Center provides top-notch performing arts. For a different pace, paddle boating in Tidal Basin or a picnic in Rock Creek Park is ideal for nature lovers.
Sightseeing Tours in Washington, D.C. vary in length, but typically range from a few hours to a full day. Self-guided audio tours offer the flexibility to explore at your own pace, potentially extending the duration depending on individual interest. For example, a comprehensive tour of the National Mall could take up several hours, while a dedicated museum tour might last approximately 1-2 hours. Plan according to your schedule and interests for the best experience.
The best Sightseeing Tours in Washington, D.C. cover a range of historical and cultural landmarks. Highly rated tours include walking around the National Mall, exploring the exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum, taking in the charm of Georgetown, delving into history at the Congressional Cemetery, and discovering signature D.C. architecture. Each tour offers a unique perspective of the nation's capital, catering to diverse interests from history enthusiasts to architecture aficionados.
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