The Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour is a convenient way to explore Washington, D.C. at your own pace. With 21 stops throughout the city, including the iconic Arlington National Cemetery, this 2.5-hour tour offers live commentary and easy access to the capital’s most renowned landmarks. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local looking to rediscover the city, this trolley tour provides a flexible and informative way to uncover the rich history and architecture that make D.C. so captivating. But there’s more to discover beyond the tour’s highlights…
Key Points

- Comprehensive hop-on hop-off trolley tour with 21 stops in Washington, D.C., including the option to visit Arlington National Cemetery.
- Live commentary from knowledgeable guides and easy access to iconic landmarks like the White House and National Mall.
- Flexible exploration with regular 30-minute departures from 9 AM to 4 PM, accommodating various schedules.
- Wheelchair accessibility and shuttle service from Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery for added convenience.
- Overall positive customer feedback on the informative guides and transportation experience, though some issues with scheduled stops and guide enthusiasm.
Tour Overview

The Washington, D.C. hop-on, hop-off trolley tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and attractions.
With 21 stops and the option to explore at your leisure, the 2.5-hour tour provides a convenient way to navigate the nation’s capital.
Departing every 30 minutes from the Washington Welcome Center starting at 9 AM, the trolley runs daily until 4 PM.
The tour includes a shuttle from the Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery, allowing guests to pay their respects at notable sites like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
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Tour Features
Live commentary from knowledgeable guides provides an engaging and informative experience for passengers aboard the hop-on, hop-off trolley.
The trolley is wheelchair accessible and accommodates collapsible strollers, ensuring accessibility for all. Children 3 and under ride free, making it a family-friendly option.
Service animals are welcome, though emotional support animals and pets aren’t permitted.
With regular departures every half hour from 9 AM to 4 PM, passengers can easily plan their day and explore the city’s highlights at their own pace.
Itinerary Highlights

Key stops along the hop-on, hop-off tour include the Washington Welcome Center, the Arlington National Cemetery Welcome Center, the iconic Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the President John F. Kennedy Memorial, and the International Spy Museum.
Along the route, visitors will encounter 17 notable sites, such as:
- The Reflecting Pool
- The Lincoln Memorial
- The Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- The White House
- The National Mall
The tour offers an engaging way to explore the history and landmarks of Washington, D.C. and Arlington National Cemetery at one’s own pace.
Customer Feedback

Reviewers have generally given the hop-on, hop-off trolley tour a solid 4.0 rating out of 170 customer reviews. Passengers praised the informative guides and engaging narratives, found the tour convenient for transportation and exploration, and highlighted the notable experiences at Arlington Cemetery. However, some reported issues with scheduled stops and closures, confusion over the Arlington add-on ticket, and a lack of enthusiasm or clarity from certain guides.
| Positive Comments | Negative Comments |
|---|---|
| Informative guides and engaging narratives | Issues with scheduled stops and closures |
| Good for transportation and freedom to explore | Confusion regarding the Arlington add-on ticket |
| Notable experiences at Arlington Cemetery | Some guides lacked enthusiasm or clarity |
Booking and Pricing

Booking for the hop-on, hop-off trolley tour can be done conveniently, with confirmation received at the time of booking.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, providing flexibility.
The pricing starts at $54.70 per person, making it an affordable option for exploring Washington, D.C. and Arlington National Cemetery.
Some key highlights:
- Convenient and flexible booking process
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours prior
- Affordable pricing starting at $54.70 per person
- Ideal for those seeking a comprehensive tour experience
- Seamless transportation and access to notable sites
Recommendations

One key recommendation for getting the most out of the hop-on, hop-off trolley tour is to start at the Washington Welcome Center. This allows you to follow the best flow of the route and ensure you don’t miss any of the 17 notable sites along the way.
Plus, it’s wise to check the maps and schedules before boarding to plan your stops and manage your time effectively. With 21 stops to choose from, you’ll want to prioritize the must-see attractions like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the International Spy Museum.
Following these tips will help you maximize your sightseeing experience.
Getting the Most Out of Your Tour

How can you make the most of your hop-on, hop-off trolley tour experience? Start at the Washington Welcome Center to follow the route’s natural flow.
Check the map beforehand to plan your stops and maximize your time. Stay engaged with the live commentary from the knowledgeable guides.
Disembark at key sites like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the International Spy Museum to explore at your leisure.
Allow ample time at Arlington National Cemetery to fully experience this hallowed ground.
With a little planning and flexibility, you can create an unforgettable sightseeing adventure in the nation’s capital.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?
Yes, guests are permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the tour. However, consuming alcohol is not allowed on the trolleys. Guests should be mindful of their surroundings and dispose of any trash properly.
Are Guided Tours Available at Arlington National Cemetery?
Yes, guided tours are available at Arlington National Cemetery. The tours provide informative narratives about the cemetery’s history and notable sites, allowing visitors to gain deeper insight into this solemn and revered national landmark.
Can I Get off at Each Stop and Rejoin the Next Trolley?
Yes, the tour allows you to hop off at each stop and rejoin the next trolley. This provides the freedom to explore the sites at your own pace along the route.
Is Wifi Available on the Trolleys?
The trolleys do not provide on-board WiFi. Passengers will need to rely on their own mobile data or look for public WiFi hotspots at the various tour stops along the route.
Can I Purchase Tickets on the Day of the Tour?
Yes, you can purchase tickets on the day of the tour. The tour operates daily, and tickets are available at the Washington Welcome Center starting at 9 AM until 4 PM. However, advance booking is recommended to secure your preferred departure time.
The Sum Up
The Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour offers an efficient and engaging way to explore the key sights of Washington, D.C. at one’s own pace. With 21 convenient stops, live commentary, and wheelchair accessibility, it’s an ideal choice for families looking to discover the city’s rich history. The option to visit Arlington National Cemetery further enhances the tour’s value, making it a comprehensive and practical sightseeing experience.
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