DC: Tour With U.S. Capitol Ground Access

Exploring the nation’s capital can be an exhilarating experience, especially when you have exclusive access to iconic landmarks like the U.S. Capitol building. This 6-hour tour promises to immerse visitors in Washington, D.C.’s rich history and culture, guiding them through celebrated memorials and offering a scenic boat ride on the Potomac River. With expert commentary and a relaxing lunch break, it’s an opportunity to discover the city’s most captivating sights in a comprehensive and engaging way. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, this tour offers a unique chance to uncover the heart of America’s democracy.

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Key Points

Includes exterior views and access to the U.S. Capitol building.
Visits major monuments and memorials like World War II, Korean War, and Vietnam Veterans Memorials.
Offers a seasonal boat ride on the Potomac River from April 1 to October 15.
Guided by expert tour guides providing historical commentary and insights.
Priced from $84 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The "DC: Tour with U.S. Capitol Ground Access" offers a comprehensive 6-hour exploration of Washington, DC.

Priced from $84 per person, the tour provides access to the Capitol Building’s exterior and visits major monuments and memorials. It’s available at various start times, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes a seasonal boat ride on the Potomac River and a lunch break at Georgetown or The Wharf, depending on the season.

An expert guide accompanies participants, providing informative commentary on the city’s history, culture, and architecture.

Comfortable shoes are recommended, and certain items are prohibited for safety.

Looking for more options in Washington Dc? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Tour Highlights

Visitors on this tour can expect to see the iconic landmarks that define the nation’s capital. The tour includes exterior views of the U.S. Capitol, White House, and key memorials like the World War II, Korean War Veterans, and Vietnam Veterans Memorials.

Travelers will also spot the Martin Luther King, Jr., Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and Iwo Jima Memorials. From April through October, the tour includes a scenic boat ride on the Potomac River.

During the lunch break, guests can explore the Georgetown waterfront or The Wharf, depending on the season. With an expert guide and surprise stops along the way, this tour offers a comprehensive introduction to Washington, DC.

Tour Experience

Expert live guides accompany participants on this tour, providing informative commentary on the history, culture, and architecture of Washington, DC’s iconic landmarks. Along the way, guests have ample opportunities to capture memorable photos at each stop. The tour also includes a seasonal boat ride on the Potomac River, offering a unique perspective of the city (available April 1 to October 15). During the experience, participants may encounter additional surprise stops, ensuring a dynamic and engaging exploration of the nation’s capital.

| Tour Aspect | Rating |

| — | — |

| Guide | 3.7/5 |

| Transportation | 4.8/5 |

| Value for Money | 3.6/5 |

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a bus tour, an official tour guide, a seasonal boat tour (available from April 1 to October 15), and entrance to the monuments.

However, the cost of food and drinks aren’t covered. Visitors are also responsible for providing their own tips.

Plus, this tour may not be suitable for individuals with claustrophobia or mobility impairments. Prohibited items include weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and drugs.

While the sights may change due to road closures, events, or weather, no refunds are provided for such changes. During the boat off-season, additional stops at the Jefferson Memorial will be included.

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Important Information

The meeting point for this tour is Signature Tours of DC, located at the corner of 9th St NW and Pennsylvania Ave NW in Washington, DC 20408.

Participants should arrive by 9:30 AM. Comfortable shoes are recommended.

Weapons, sharp objects, alcohol, and drugs are prohibited.

It’s important to note that sights may change due to road closures, events, or weather, and no refunds will be provided for such changes.

During the off-season for the boat tour, additional stops at the Jefferson Memorial will be included.

There's plenty more to explore in Washington Dc

Customer Reviews

According to the reviews, customers have provided a mixed assessment of this DC tour.

While some praise the knowledgeable guide and comfortable transportation, others feel the value for money is lacking.

The tour averages 3.8 out of 5 stars, with the guide scoring 3.7 and value for money at 3.6.

Couples, friends, solo travelers, and families all share similar sentiments.

The tour seems to deliver a solid experience, though some areas could use improvement to better meet customer expectations and provide greater value.

Prospective travelers should weigh the pros and cons to determine if this tour aligns with their preferences.

Exploring the Capitol Building

Although the Capitol Building exterior is included in the tour, participants are not granted entry inside the iconic structure. However, the guide provides an in-depth overview of the building’s history and architecture from the outside. Key facts about the Capitol Building include:

| Facts | Details |

| — | — |

| Construction | Began in 1793 and took over 100 years to complete |

| Dome | Stands 289 feet tall and weighs 14.5 million pounds |

| Design | Inspired by ancient Roman and Greek temples |

| Usage | Houses the meeting chambers of the U.S. Congress |

While not able to explore the interior, the tour offers a comprehensive look at this world-renowned landmark.

Navigating the Tour

Participants can easily navigate the comprehensive DC tour by following the designated meeting point and arrival time. The tour kicks off at 9:30 AM sharp, so it’s important to arrive at the Signature Tours of DC office located at the corner of 9th St NW and Pennsylvania Ave NW.

Once there, guests can expect:

Guests can expect an informative guide, seamless transportation, and hassle-free entrance access to the city’s popular landmarks.

An informative guide who’ll lead the group throughout the day, providing commentary on the city’s history and architecture.
Seamless transportation via a comfortable bus, allowing participants to sit back and enjoy the sights.
Entrance access to the popular monuments and memorials, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photographs Inside the Capitol Building?

No, you can’t take photographs inside the Capitol building. The Capitol building has strict rules against photography to protect the security and privacy of the building and its occupants.

Do I Need to Purchase Tickets for the Capitol Tour?

No, you don’t need to purchase separate tickets for the Capitol tour. It’s included as part of the DC: Tour with U.S. Capitol Ground Access package. The tour gives you access to view the Capitol building’s exterior.

Is There a Dress Code for the Capitol Building Tour?

There’s no official dress code for the U.S. Capitol building tour, but visitors should wear comfortable, casual clothing. Avoid wearing ripped jeans, tank tops, or anything too revealing. The key is to dress respectfully for this historic landmark.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Exploring the Capitol Building?

The tour doesn’t include access inside the Capitol building, only the exterior grounds. Visitors will have around 30 minutes to take photos and explore the Capitol’s exterior during the tour’s 6-hour duration.

Are There Any Security Restrictions for Entering the Capitol?

There are security restrictions for entering the Capitol building. Visitors must go through metal detectors and have their bags searched. No weapons, sharp objects, or liquids are allowed. The tour provides exterior access only, not inside the Capitol.

The Sum Up

This tour offers an exclusive opportunity to experience the heart of America’s democracy. From the iconic monuments to the scenic boat ride, it’s a comprehensive way to explore Washington, DC’s rich history and culture. With expert guides and convenient inclusions, it’s a must-do for anyone seeking an enriching and memorable journey through the nation’s capital.