Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour in Washington DC, United States
Washington DC, United States

Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour

Outty Ranking 55 3.5 · 4,051 traveler reviews1 hoursFrom $45
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Outty Ranking

55/100

Worth a Look. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

3.5/5

Based on 4,051 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

Quick answer

Is Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour worth booking?

Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour is a 1-hour experience in Washington DC, United States, from $45 per person. It scores 55 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”, based on a 3.5/5 rating across 4,051 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.

Outty Ranking
55 / 100
Rating
3.5/5 (4,051)
Duration
1 hours
From
$45 per person

Explore Washington, D.C. with the Official Tour of the National Mall. As the National Park Service's authorized concessionaire, Big Bus takes you closer to the city's iconic monuments and memorials, with a portion of every ticket supporting their preservation. Hop on and off at 18 stops to create your own itinerary and discover landmarks such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and U.S. Capitol at your own pace. Enjoy panoramic views from an open-top double-decker bus while listening to engaging digital commentary. Your ticket also includes access to three self-guided audio walking tours of Arlington National Cemetery, the Tidal Basin, and Georgetown. 48-hour and 72-hour tickets also include the Georgetown Shuttle, making it easy to explore the historic waterfront, boutique shops, and charming streets of one of D.C.'s most vibrant neighborhoods.

What you get

    About this experience

    Explore Washington, D.C. with the Official Tour of the National Mall. As the National Park Service's authorized concessionaire, Big Bus takes you closer to the city's iconic monuments and memorials, with a portion of every ticket supporting their preservation. Hop on and off at 18 stops to create your own itinerary and discover landmarks such as the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and U.S. Capitol at your own pace. Enjoy panoramic views from an open-top double-decker bus while listening to engaging digital commentary. Your ticket also includes access to three self-guided audio walking tours of Arlington National Cemetery, the Tidal Basin, and Georgetown. 48-hour and 72-hour tickets also include the Georgetown Shuttle, making it easy to explore the historic waterfront, boutique shops, and charming streets of one of D.C.'s most vibrant neighborhoods.

    What's included

    Included

    • Shuttle to Georgetown from National Mall (included with 48/72hr tickets)
    • Live bus tracking and city information with Big Bus app
    • Audio-guided walking tours of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin, and Georgetown
    • Official Tour Provider of the National Mall - a portion of every ticket goes to preservation
    • Open-top double-decker buses - Access Two Routes with 18 stops
    • 2.5hr Sunset Tour with Live Guide (if option selected)
    • Digital onboard commentary with headphones (Hop-on Hop-off Tour)
    • 24/48/72hr Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Ticket

    Not included

    • Hotel pickup and drop-off

    Options you can book

    • 72hr Ticket & Sunset Tour

      72hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour: Red and Blue Loops Audio Guided Walking Tour: choice of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin and Georgetown tours 2hr Sunset Tour with Guide

    • 24hr Ticket - Red Loop Only

    • 48hr Ticket & Sunset Tour

      48hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour: Red and Blue Loops Audio Guided Walking Tour: choice of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin and Georgetown tours 2hr Sunset Tour with Guide

    • 24hr Ticket & Sunset Tour

      24hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour: Red and Blue Loops Audio Guided Walking Tour: choice of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin and Georgetown tours 2hr Sunset Tour with Guide

    • 72hr Hop-on Hop-off Ticket

      72hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour: includes Red and Blue loops Audio-guided Walking Tour: choice of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin and Georgetown tours Free Oval Office Replica Photo Georgetown Shuttle: departs hourly between National Mall and Georgetown Waterfront

    • 24hr Ticket - Blue Loop Only

      24hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour: Blue Loop (7 Stops): Go beyond the National Mall with a route that includes the White House, Arlington Cemetery, and more Audio Guided Walking Tour: choice of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin and Georgetown tours

    • 24hr Hop-on Hop-off Ticket

      24hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour: includes Red and Blue loops Audio-guided Walking Tour: choice of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin and Georgetown tours Free Oval Office Replica Photo

    • 48hr Hop-on Hop-off Ticket

      48hr Hop-on Hop-off Tour: includes Red and Blue loops Audio-guided Walking Tour: choice of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin and Georgetown tours Free Oval Office Replica Photo Georgetown Shuttle: departs hourly between National Mall and Georgetown Waterfront

    Before you book

    Cancellation
    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
    Languages
    de, pt, en, fr, es
    Ticket
    Mobile Only
    Runs on
    Every day
    Group size
    Up to 30 travelers per booking
    Operated by
    Big Bus Tours - USA

    Know before you go

    • Wheelchair accessible
    • Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
    • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
    • Service animals allowed
    • Public transportation options are available nearby
    • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
    • Guests may redeem tickets via Big Bus app or in person at Stop #1 Washington Monumnent, 1400 Jefferson Dr. SW (on Jefferson Dr. SW, corner of 14th St. by Bike Racks)
    • Your Dollars in Action: A portion of every ticket helps preserve the National Mall’s iconic monuments and memorials—so your Big Bus tour supports America’s history for generations to come
    • Free Oval Office Commemorative Photo: Present your ticket at White House Gifts (701 15th ST NW) to receive a free Oval Office digital photo. One photo per ticket.
    • Choice of audio-guided walking tours includes Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin, and Georgetown neighborhood.
    • Live bus tracking, route information, and ticket activation available via the Big Bus app
    • The Georgetown Shuttle operates daily every hour from 10:15 AM to 5:15 PM, with a full loop taking approximately 45–60 minutes. Please present your digital or printed ticket before boarding.

    Photos

    Hop-on Hop-off Tour, Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour in Washington DCHop-on Hop-off Tour, Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour in Washington DCHop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour in Washington DC, photo 4Washington DC Hop-On Hop-Off Tour, Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour in Washington DCHop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour in Washington DC, photo 6Hop-on Hop-off Tour, Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour in Washington DC

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 4,043 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    3 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Traveler reviews

    4,043 verified traveler reviews for Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    1,696
    4 star
    675
    3 star
    423
    2 star
    459
    1 star
    790
    Sort
    teresa_g · October 2026

    Sad service

    First bus broke down, moved everyone to another bus. At 4:30pm bus stopped in middle of tour and all we told to exit and find alternate means to get back to our starting spot. Either Uber, metro, or walk in rain.

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback. We're disappointed to hear about your experience. A breakdown followed by the tour ending early and guests being asked to arrange their own transportation back to their starting point is certainly not the experience you expected. We understand how inconvenient it would have been to find alternative transportation, especially in rainy weather, after the tour was unable to continue as planned. To allow us to review this further and provide an appropriate resolution, please contact our Customer Service team with your booking details and the date of your tour. Our team will be happy to investigate the matter further. You can reach our Washington DC Customer Service Team through the following page: https://www.bigbustours.com/en/washington-dc/contact-us Thank you for bringing this to our attention. Alex@BigBusTours

    via Viator

    Maria_W · October 2026

    Better off booking this tour direct

    It’s a fantastic way to see the city. However Viator does not give enough information on how to navigate . It wasn’t until we went to The Big Bus sight if someone or a senior citizen books this Viator should not be the booking method for this particular tour

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your review. We're delighted to hear that you found the tour to be a fantastic way to see Washington DC. We also appreciate your feedback regarding the booking experience. Clear information on how to access the tour and navigate the routes is important, especially for first-time visitors and senior guests. We're pleased that our team and resources were able to help once you reached the Big Bus site, and we'll share your comments regarding the information provided through Viator for review. Thank you for traveling with us, and we hope you enjoyed your time exploring the capital! Alex@BigBusTours

    via Viator

    Y1897EIms · October 2026

    Do not use Big Bus- Waste of time and money!

    Warning: Do not use this Bus tour. The service was lousy. In the morning of 11 am 10/4/26 at the Washington monument, we took our first ride. The driver did not offer to give us a free ear piece to listen to the tour and did not announce what stop was coming up. The driver then asked everyone to transfer to another bus, after we all sat there for 20 minutes. Initially the same driver told us, this was the bus to the White House. We had to transfer multiple times, we went back and forth over the Potomac River twice, this wasted our time, because we had a bus schedule to keep to go back home. The wait time at the bus stop was longer than 30 minutes! Another competitor bus company came faster (Old Trolley Bus), which stopped near our bus stop to pick and drop off their passengers. Go with another bus company and do NOT use Big Bus! This was a waste of time and money. Out of 18 stops, we only saw 4- 5 sites, because of the long wait time in between the bus stops.

    via Tripadvisor

    DJMotil · October 2026

    Left stranded at stop 6 at the end of the day.

    We got on the bus at Arlington Cemetery at approximately 4PM and continued our tour. As the bus approached the switchover from the blue loop to the red, the driver told us that this was the last run of the day. We stayed on, as we had parked near stop 10. Six stops later (again, at stop 6), the driver shuts off the bus and says this is the end of the tour. NOT at the end of the loop, in the middle of it. So, we were left stranded at The Spy Museum with our vehicle was near Jefferson Memorial. We were not the only customers that were left hanging. Thank goodness for Uber! In addition, the overall quality of the tour was just so-so. The brochure does not have a map of where everything is, just two circles showing the stops, not their actual locations and distances to one another or any other sights.

    via Tripadvisor

    Deb_E · October 2026

    Worst tour bus I've ever experienced.

    Tour was audio and terrible. Not friendly. Way too expensive for what you get. Metro was a better way to travel. A total waste of money. I will make sure to discourage others from using your services. Totally disappointed. A refund is the only thing that would make me happy about The Big Bus Tour!!!

    Response from the operator: Thank you for your feedback. We're sorry to hear that your experience did not meet expectations. We take your comments seriously and would appreciate the opportunity to learn more and address your concerns. Please contact our customer service team so we can assist you further. Ioan-Razvan@BigBusTours

    via Viator

    Good to know

    Duration
    1 hours
    Free cancellation
    Up to 24h before
    Minimum age to book
    All ages
    Availability
    Bookable today
    Runs on
    Every day
    Price range
    $45 to $99
    Booked in 30 days
    1,418
    Verdict
    Worth a Look

    Who runs this experience

    Operated by Big Bus Tours - USA, who run 43 experiences we rank across 8 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 59.5.

    See everything Big Bus Tours - USA runs

    Why this scores 55

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)0
    Review evidence (18% weight)100
    Booking momentum (14% weight)100
    Value for money (12% weight)56
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)0
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)100

    Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour: questions travelers ask

    Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Washington DC.

    How much does Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour cost?

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    Prices start at $45 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Washington DC usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.

    How long does Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour take?

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    Plan for about 1 hour from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Washington DC is not rushed.

    Is Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour worth it?

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    It holds an Outty Ranking of 55 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (3.5/5 across 4,051 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Washington DC, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.

    Can I cancel or reschedule Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour?

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    Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.

    Is Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour suitable for kids and families?

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    Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 1-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.

    How far in advance should I book Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour?

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    Around 1,418 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Washington DC can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.

    What should I bring or wear?

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    Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Washington DC and add a light layer if any part of the 1-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.

    Where does Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour start and how do I get there?

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    The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Washington DC within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.

    What are the best things to do in Washington DC?

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    Washington is the rare city where the headline attractions cost nothing and the scarce resource is access. Timed entry to the Smithsonian museums, Capitol and White House tours, and the night monument runs by bike or bus are what fill up. Our ranking rewards operators who secure the passes themselves rather than telling you to sort it out at the door. On Outty we rank every Washington DC experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour, Arlington Cemetery Small-Group Tour & Changing of the Guards, Washington DC Small-Group Sightseeing Experience. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.

    When is the best time to visit Washington DC?

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    Late March to April for cherry blossom, or September to November for cool museum weather. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.

    How many days do you need in Washington DC?

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    Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.

    Do I book through Outty or through the operator?

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    Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.

    What is included in Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour?

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    Included: Shuttle to Georgetown from National Mall (included with 48/72hr tickets); Live bus tracking and city information with Big Bus app; Audio-guided walking tours of Arlington Cemetery, Tidal Basin, and Georgetown; Official Tour Provider of the National Mall - a portion of every ticket goes to preservati; and Open-top double-decker buses - Access Two Routes with 18 stops. Not included: Hotel pickup and drop-off. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    What languages is Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour offered in?

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    It is offered in German, Portuguese, English, French and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour?

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    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour wheelchair or stroller accessible?

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    The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap; and Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour if the weather is bad?

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    It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in Washington DC. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.

    What do travelers say about Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour?

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    Across 4,051 reviews averaging 3.5 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    What booking options are available for Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour?

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    There are 8 options to choose from, including 72hr Ticket & Sunset Tour, 24hr Ticket - Red Loop Only, 48hr Ticket & Sunset Tour, 24hr Ticket & Sunset Tour. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

    Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Hop-on Hop-off Tour of DC with 18 Stops and Arlington Audio Tour.

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