Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour
Pick your date
Highlighted days have spots open. Grey days are sold out or not running.
September 2026
Loading live availability
Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
Select a highlighted day to see live departure times and the exact price for your group.
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
Not yet rated
No traveler reviews have been published for this experience yet.
Quick answer
Is Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour worth booking?
Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour is a 2.3-hour experience in Washington DC, United States, from $80 per person. It scores 49 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Worth a Look”. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 49 / 100
- Rating
- Not yet rated
- Duration
- 2.3 hours
- From
- $80 per person
Discover the magic of the nation’s capital like never before on our Holiday Lights Bus Tour, a festive hop-on hop-off adventure that celebrates Washington DC’s most enchanting seasonal sights. We will see famous hotels
What you get
About this experience
Discover the magic of the nation’s capital like never before on our Holiday Lights Bus Tour, a festive hop-on hop-off adventure that celebrates Washington DC’s most enchanting seasonal sights. We will see famous hotels decorated in the holiday spirit, National Christmas Tree, U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree, National Mistletoe, and other holiday displays. On select dates, we will visit the US Botanic Gardens for their holiday light displays! For 2025, these dates are Dec. 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, and Jan. 1. Finally, the tour concludes at Frosted at Franklin Square. Take in twinkling displays, and immerse yourself in the cheerful atmosphere. The Holiday Lights Bus Tour is the perfect way to celebrate the season—sparkling sights, festive traditions, and unforgettable memories from start to finish. This is a hop on hop off tour where some time is spent outside. The first 45 minutes are spent outside visiting the first two stops.
What's included
Included
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- 4 Christmas Trees Stops, 1 Mistletoe Stops & more Holiday Lights!
- Professional Tour Guide to guide you on and off the bus at all stops
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Stepping into the Willard InterContinental during the holidays feels like entering a grand, glittering Christmas postcard. The historic lobby is transformed with towering trees, garlands, and elaborate themed displays that change each year but always echo the hotel’s timeless elegance. Throughout December, the Willard’s famous lobby also fills with the sound of live choral performances—local carollers whose voices carry through the marble halls. The result is a festive, almost magical atmosphere that blends Washington tradition with old-world holiday charm, making the Willard a must-see stop during Christmastime in D.C.
10 minutes here
A visit to the World War I Memorial offers not only a place to reflect on the service and sacrifice of American forces, but also a chance to remember the remarkable human stories that emerged from the conflict—especially at Christmastime. One of the most famous is the 1914 Christmas Truce, when soldiers along parts of the Western Front briefly set aside the war to sing carols, exchange small gifts, and even play impromptu games of football in the no man’s land between the trenches. Though the United States had not yet entered the war, this moment of shared humanity remains one of the most powerful and enduring stories from WWI. Standing at the memorial, with its sweeping bronze reliefs and quiet reflection areas, visitors can consider how these Christmas stories highlight the contrast between the brutality of war and the universal desire for peace. It’s a poignant reminder that even in the darkest moments of history, the spirit of compassion and connection can still break through.
10 minutes here
National Christmas Tree
Just south of the White House stands the National Christmas Tree, a beloved holiday symbol since 1923. What makes it special is its blend of tradition and national unity: the tree is lit each December by the President, surrounded by smaller trees decorated by students from every U.S. state and territory. Together, they create the “Pathway of Peace,” turning the Ellipse into a glowing celebration of American communities and the spirit of the season.
30 minutes here
ONLY ON Dec. 9, 11, 16, 18, 23 2025 - Festive lights, sparkling decorations, and the famous outdoor train display—an intricate miniature world that winds through imaginative, plant-based scenes. The exterior gardens are open and beautifully illuminated, making them perfect for an evening stroll. While the Conservatory’s interior holiday display is usually closed in the evenings, the Botanic Garden offers select late-night openings on certain days each season. On those special nights, guests can step inside to see the elaborate model landmarks crafted from natural materials, lush seasonal plantings, and warm, greenhouse-lit holiday scenes. Whether enjoyed from the outside or explored during a late-night opening, the Botanic Garden’s Christmas display is a serene and memorable highlight of winter in the nation’s capital.
Pass by without stopping
U.S. Capitol
Step off the bus and into one of Washington, DC’s most cherished holiday traditions—the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. Known as “The People’s Tree,” this towering evergreen is hand-selected each year from a different National Forest, bringing a touch of America’s natural beauty right to the heart of the nation’s capital. As you approach the West Lawn of the Capitol, you’ll be greeted by thousands of twinkling lights and handcrafted ornaments made by communities from the tree’s home state. Take in the glow of the Capitol dome behind it—one of the most iconic holiday scenes in DC—and enjoy time for photos, strolls, and soaking in the festive atmosphere. This stop is a perfect blend of tradition, artistry, and seasonal spirit—an unforgettable moment on your Holiday Lights Bus Tour.
15 minutes here
Experience an international twist on DC’s holiday sparkle with a visit to the Christmas Tree at the Embassy of Canada. Standing proudly along Pennsylvania Avenue, this beautifully decorated tree brings a warm, welcoming glow from our neighbors to the north. Adorned with elegant lights and distinctly Canadian touches, the embassy’s tree reflects themes of unity, friendship, and the shared spirit of the season. With the striking architecture of the embassy behind it and the U.S. Capitol framed in the distance, this stop offers one of the most unique and picturesque holiday scenes in the city.
10 minutes here
Get ready for a charming dose of holiday cheer at our National Mistletoe stop—an enchanting moment that blends festive fun with a pinch of playful tradition. This beloved installation celebrates one of the season’s most iconic symbols: the mistletoe, long associated with love, laughter, and a little holiday magic. As you step off the bus, you’ll find yourself under a beautifully crafted mistletoe display—glowing, oversized, and perfect for photos. Whether you’re sharing a kiss, a smile, or simply enjoying the twinkling backdrop, this stop offers a lighthearted celebration of togetherness during the most wonderful time of the year. A delightful pause on your Holiday Lights Bus Tour, the National Mistletoe is all about joy, connection, and capturing the spirit of the season.
10 minutes here
This soaring, jewel-bright tree dazzles with thousands of lights, mirrored ornaments, and shimmering metallic details, all set within the sleek, contemporary plaza of CityCenterDC. As you wander through the open-air promenade, you’ll be surrounded by glowing installations, chic storefront displays, and festive energy that blends modern style with timeless holiday spirit. The tree stands as the centerpiece—perfect for sparkling photos, quiet admiration, or soaking in the city’s upscale winter ambiance. A sparkling blend of luxury and holiday cheer, the CityCenterDC Holiday Tree stop adds a touch of glamour to your Holiday Lights Bus Tour. ✨
15 minutes here
Your Holiday Lights Bus Tour wraps up in unforgettable style at Frosted at Franklin Square. Step into a glowing world of twinkling light displays, cozy winter décor, and cheerful holiday energy. A perfect grand finale, Frosted at Franklin Square sends you off with warmth, joy, and a final dash of holiday sparkle. ✨
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Washington DC
Meet your guide outside the White House Visitor Center - look for your DC by Foot guide in orange and a white bus with a Holiday Lights Bus Tour sign.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
End at Franklin Square for the Frosted Holiday Celebration; near a Metro and not far from our meeting point.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- DC by Foot
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- All persons are required by law to have a seat/ticket. We can only accommodate the number of persons reserved. No lap-sitting. Child seats cannot be provided so please do not bring small children who cannot sit in a seat on their own.
Photos
Good to know
- Duration
- 2.3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $80 to $95
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 0
- Verdict
- Worth a Look
Why this scores 49
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Washington DC.
How much does Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour cost?
+
Prices start at $80 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 Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour take?
+
Plan for about 2.3 hours 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 Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour worth it?
+
It holds an Outty Ranking of 49 out of 100, which we label "Worth a Look". That score blends traveler sentiment (0/5 across 0 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 Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour?
+
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 Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour suitable for kids and families?
+
Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2.3-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour?
+
Around 0 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?
+
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 2.3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour start and how do I get there?
+
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?
+
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 Small-Group Sightseeing Experience, Washington DC "See the City" Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour, Arlington Cemetery Small-Group Tour & Changing of the Guards. 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?
+
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?
+
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?
+
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.
Ready to lock in your spot?
Pick a date, choose your group, and see the exact price for Washington, DC: National Christmas Tree & Holiday Lights Bus Tour.
Pick your date
