Washington DC is one of the most bikeable cities in the United States, thanks to its flat terrain, wide bike lanes, and a concentration of iconic landmarks. Cycling through the capital offers a way to cover more ground than walking, soak in the architecture, and experience the city’s history up close. Whether you prefer a guided tour with expert commentary, a private custom route, or self-guided exploration, DC has options that suit a variety of interests and fitness levels. With tours ranging from daytime monument rides to evening illuminations and cherry blossom specials, you’ll find a way to see the city on two wheels that fits your schedule and style.
This list of the 16 best bike tours in Washington DC highlights those that stand out for their unique itineraries, expert guides, and overall value. From classic monument explorations to special night tours and private customized routes, each offers a different way to experience the nation’s capital. Read on to find the perfect cycling adventure for your visit.
1. Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour
At number 1, the Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour gets top marks with a 5.0-star rating from nearly 800 reviews. For just $65, you’ll spend about three hours cruising on comfortable hybrid bikes over flat terrain from the National Mall to the Tidal Basin. Your knowledgeable guide shares stories about landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial, making it a lively, informative experience. The route is easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels, and many reviewers praise the guide’s storytelling and professionalism. Highlights include walking your bike through the FDR Memorial and stopping to rub Fala’s ears for good luck. This tour is perfect for those who want a thorough, engaging overview of DC’s most famous sights in a relaxed three-hour window.
Bottom Line: Excellent for first-timers who want a comprehensive, fun, and comfortable way to see the monuments with expert narration.
2. Washington DC: Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour
At number 2, the Washington DC: Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour offers another three-hour journey along the National Mall and Potomac Tidal Basin. Costing $65, this tour is highly rated for its leisurely pace and is especially popular among families with kids of all ages. Riders enjoy riding Cannondale comfort bikes, covering major memorials like MLK, the Korean War, and WWII, with frequent photo stops. Many reviewers highlight how this tour is the “highlight” of their trip, especially noting guides’ engaging stories and the flat, traffic-free bike paths. It’s a relaxed way to explore DC’s core while fitting in multiple stops.
Bottom Line: Best suited for families and those wanting a laid-back, scenic tour with plenty of photo opportunities.
3. Customized Private Bike Tour of DC
Number 3 on our list is the Customized Private Bike Tour of DC, rated perfectly at 5.0 based on 109 reviews. For $595 per group, up to two people, this three-hour tour offers complete flexibility. Your guide will craft a route based on your interests, whether you want to see the White House, Smithsonian Museums, or Lincoln Memorial. The tour includes snacks and water, plus hotel pickup and drop-off for convenience. Guests love how personalized the experience is and appreciate the attention to detail, with many saying guides are both knowledgeable and engaging. This is ideal if you want a tailored experience or are traveling with someone who prefers a more intimate, private outing.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers seeking a bespoke, private experience with a knowledgeable guide and flexible itinerary.
4. Private Family-Friendly Bike Tour of DC
The Private Family-Friendly Bike Tour of DC, another 5-star rated option, is tailored for families with young kids. For $595 per group, you can customize your route and include kid-friendly museums and splash pads. The guide is experienced with children, offering options such as chaperoning younger riders or using a kid-friendly bike or trailer. Reviewers note how Jeff, the guide, went out of his way to make the experience fun and educational, with plenty of snacks and water provided. Stops include the White House, U.S. Capitol, and Lincoln Memorial, with some riding and some walking through memorials.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for families wanting a flexible, safe, and engaging DC tour that caters to children’s needs.
5. Washington DC: Monuments by Night Bike Tour
Number 5 is the Monuments by Night Bike Tour, rated 4.6 from over 220 reviews. For $65, spend three hours riding past lit-up landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and MLK Memorial, when they look their most striking. Many comments mention how spectacular it is to see the monuments illuminated and the quieter streets after dark. The tour includes inside visits of the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, and the guide shares stories about the landmarks’ history and symbolism. Nighttime riding offers a different perspective, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want a peaceful, atmospheric experience of DC’s monuments after sunset.
6. Private DC Monuments at Night Bike Tour
For a fully private experience, the Private DC Monuments at Night Bike Tour is rated 5.0 and lasts about 2.5 to 3 hours. For $595, your small group (up to two people) explores the monuments under the stars, with all safety gear and snacks included. The guide customizes the route and shares insider tips, making it ideal for travelers seeking a personalized, intimate tour. Reviewers note how the guide’s storytelling and attention to detail make this a memorable experience. Sunset or night tours bring the monuments to life with dramatic lighting, and the private setting allows for more flexibility and reflection.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting a personalized, quiet, and scenic night tour with a private guide.
7. Washington DC Capital Sites Bike Tour
Number 7 is the Capital Sites Bike Tour, 4.5 stars from 195 reviews, costing only $55. For about two hours, you’ll visit highlights like the Lincoln Memorial, White House, and Capitol, with stops for photos and quick insights. The tour is great for those short on time but eager to see multiple notable sites. Many reviews praise the guide’s engaging commentary and the flat, well-marked paths. It’s a quick, energetic way to get a lay of the land and learn some interesting facts about DC’s government buildings and history.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you need a fast, focused tour of the key government landmarks.
8. Monumental Electric Bike Tour
The Monumental Electric Bike Tour is rated 4.5 and costs $89 for three hours of relaxed sightseeing. Using e-bikes, you’ll cruise past the Smithsonian museums, the Capitol, and the White House with less exertion. Many reviews mention how the motor assist makes covering large distances easy, making it suitable for most fitness levels. The tour includes stops at the U.S. Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, with historical commentary along the way. It’s a good choice if you want to see a lot without working up a sweat or if you’re traveling with older or less active companions.
Bottom Line: Excellent for a comfortable, comprehensive tour with minimal pedaling effort.
9. Washington DC Cherry Blossoms By Bike Tour
The Cherry Blossoms By Bike Tour is a seasonal favorite, rated 4.5 from 88 reviews. For $65, this two-hour ride celebrates the National Cherry Blossom Festival, taking you through the Tidal Basin and East Potomac Park. Your guide shares stories about the festival’s history and points out the best spots for photos of the blooming trees, Memorials, and the Jefferson and MLK Memorials. The tour is perfect for spring travelers who want a leisurely, scenic ride with plenty of photo stops. Many reviewers remark how this is one of the most beautiful times to visit DC, with the cherry blossoms creating a truly magical backdrop.
Bottom Line: Ideal for spring visitors seeking a peaceful, picturesque experience during peak bloom.
10. Washington DC: E-Bike Tour of the National Mall
Number 10, the E-Bike Tour of the National Mall, costs $89 for three hours. It provides an effortless way to explore DC’s highlights, from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and the Tidal Basin. Many reviews praise the motor assist, especially for covering long distances comfortably. The tour includes stops at key landmarks with commentary on their history and significance. It’s perfect for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing with minimal effort or those with limited time. The guide’s insights help you appreciate the stories behind the monuments while enjoying a smooth ride.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a fast-paced, fun, less strenuous tour of DC’s major sites.
How to Choose Your Perfect Bike Tour in Washington DC
Choosing between these options depends on your budget, time available, and interests. If you’re after a rundown with engaging storytelling, the Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour or the private Customized Private Bike Tour are excellent. For family adventures, the Family-Friendly Tour offers flexibility and kid-friendly stops. If you prefer seeing landmarks illuminated at night, consider the Night Bike Tour or the private Night Monuments Tour. Budget-conscious travelers might opt for the Capitol Sites Tour, while those wanting to cover more ground easily can go for the E-Bike Tour.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak spring cherry blossom season or for private tours, which fill quickly. Consider your fitness level — most tours are suitable for casual riders, but electric options provide extra assistance if needed. Think about your schedule: a quick 2-hour tour or a full half-day private experience can fit different travel plans.
Final Thoughts
Washington DC offers a rich variety of bike tours that cater to different interests, whether it’s the classic monument ride, a private tailored outing, or a special night tour with illuminated landmarks. For first-timers or those wanting a broad overview, the Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour is a standout. Families and casual riders might prefer the Family-Friendly Tour, while history buffs eager for a private, customized experience should consider the Private Private Bike Tour. And don’t forget the seasonal cherry blossom rides—they turn DC into a magical wonderland each spring.
No matter your choice, biking is a fantastic way to see DC, combining exercise with education and fun. Book early, bring your sense of adventure, and get ready to see the city from a fresh perspective—on two wheels.