The 7 Best Dinner Tours in Washington DC
Washington DC is a city that dazzles when illuminated at night, with iconic monuments and historic landmarks lit up against the dark sky. While exploring on foot or by car is classic, taking a dinner cruise adds a whole new dimension—combining fantastic views, delicious food, and a dash of adventure. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a romantic evening, or just want to enjoy the city from the water, these tours offer something for every taste and budget.
From elegant multi-course dinners to lively dance parties on the water, the options vary widely. Some cruises include buffet-style meals, while others feature gourmet three-course dinners with live music. Many provide 360° views of DC’s landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and National Harbor, making them memorable experiences for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike.
Quick Overview
In this guide, we explore seven of the best dinner tours available in Washington DC. These range from relaxed brunch and lunch cruises to more upscale dinner cruises with live entertainment. Some feature buffet meals, like the DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise, known for its extensive buffet and lively atmosphere. Others, such as the Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise, offer three-course plated dinners and a more refined experience. There’s also a holiday-themed option—the Thanksgiving Gourmet Dinner River Cruise, perfect for celebrating the season.
Each tour differs in style, price, and what’s included—so whether you’re after a romantic night, a family-friendly outing, or a special event, this list will help you pick the right option.
1. DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise
This cruise aboard the Spirit of Washington DC offers an extensive buffet meal combined with stunning Potomac River views. Starting at around $65 per person, it’s a great choice for those who want a lively atmosphere with plenty of food and entertainment. The cruise lasts about 2 to 2.5 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and activities—like dancing to the onboard DJ or playing giant Jenga and shuffleboard.
The itinerary takes you past DC landmarks including the Washington Monument, Old Town Alexandria, and the National Harbor. You also cruise past the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and the United States Capitol, with the observation decks providing 360° views. Reviews praise the impeccable service and fun atmosphere, with many guests saying it’s just the right length to eat, dance, and enjoy the sights without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Perfect for a casual, fun-filled evening with good food and lively entertainment. It’s especially suited for families or groups wanting a relaxed but memorable experience.
2. DC: City Cruises Gourmet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise
Offering a more refined experience, this cruise on the Odyssey features a plated gourmet 3-course dinner or buffet brunch starting around $65. The 2-hour cruise includes curated background music and remarkable 360° views of DC’s monuments, including the Washington and Lincoln Memorials. This cruise stands out for its luxurious feel and attention to detail, making it ideal for romantic evenings or special celebrations.
Guests love the delicious food and the comfortable, private tables—a nice change from buffet lines. The views of the Potomac River with DC’s skyline as the backdrop create a truly scenic setting. Reviewers frequently mention the fantastic scenery and good service, with one saying, “It was a fantastic experience which we both really enjoyed.” While the cruise is shorter, it offers enough time to savor your meal and soak in the sights without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: Best suited for those seeking a more elegant dining experience combined with spectacular vistas. It’s great for couples or small groups celebrating special moments.
3. Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise
At number 3 on our list, the Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise offers a 3-hour journey aboard the elegant Odyssey. This cruise features a delicious 3-course meal and live entertainment, making it a full-night experience. The glass atrium dining rooms provide panoramic views of landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and even passing beneath historic bridges—something unique to this cruise.
Guests rave about the atmosphere, with many mentioning the great service and beautiful views. The cruise is particularly popular for celebrating birthdays or anniversaries, as the live music and dancing create a lively, festive environment. While it costs around $150 per person, the experience of dining and dancing while cruising past DC’s illuminated monuments makes it a worthwhile splurge.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those wanting a romantic or celebratory night with top-tier food, live entertainment, and memorable sights.
4. Washington DC Signature Dinner Cruise
This all-you-can-eat buffet cruise offers a 3-hour journey on the Potomac River, with dinner, dancing, and sightseeing all in one. You’ll board the luxury Hornblower boat and enjoy views of DC’s skyline at sunset. The dining rooms are designed for comfort, and the dinner menu includes a variety of dishes to suit most tastes—baked chicken, salads, fish, macaroni and cheese, and desserts.
Guests appreciate the entertainment provided by the DJ, with many mentioning that the dinner was “typical banquet style” but the overall experience was fun. The spectacular sunset views and the opportunity to wander the decks after dinner make this a versatile choice. It’s priced around $131.67, offering a balanced mix of quality and value.
Bottom Line: Ideal for groups or couples looking for a relaxed yet lively dinner cruise with great sunset views and the chance to dance under the stars.
5. Washington DC: Christmas Eve Gourmet Brunch or Dinner Cruise
Celebrating a special occasion? This Christmas Eve cruise on the Odyssey combines holiday cheer with scenic views. For about $146, you can enjoy a buffet brunch with mimosas or a gourmet 3-course dinner at your private table, all while cruising past illuminated landmarks like the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.
It’s a small-scale experience, with just 6 reviews noting it as a “great activity and wonderful” way to mark the holiday. The elegant setting, fine wine, and live DJ create a polished, memorable holiday experience. The cruise’s limited reviews make it more suited for those seeking a special seasonal celebration rather than a regular night out.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a festive, sophisticated experience on Christmas Eve, especially for those who enjoy holiday traditions.
6. Washington DC Father’s Day Buffet Dinner Cruise
This Father’s Day cruise offers an elegant evening on the Potomac with buffet dinners, cocktails, and music. Priced at $198.17 per person, it features a climate-controlled interior and open-air decks, perfect for enjoying the views regardless of weather. The itinerary includes stops at Arlington National Cemetery, the Jefferson Memorial, and other notable sites.
While there are no reviews yet, the tour’s inclusive atmosphere and emphasis on family-friendly elegance make it attractive for special occasions. The buffet-style meal and live music create a relaxed yet classy environment, ideal for celebrating with Dad or family.
Bottom Line: Best for families wanting a comfortable, scenic, and celebratory evening on the river.
7. Washington DC: Thanksgiving Gourmet Dinner River Cruise
This Thanksgiving cruise stands out with a 5-star rating and costs $216 per person. It features a 3-course plated meal and live DJ entertainment aboard a boat designed for optimal city viewing. The cruise lasts about 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the festive atmosphere and stunning views of landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial.
Perfect for those celebrating the holiday in style, it offers fine wine, delicious food, and the chance to see DC illuminated at night. The high rating reflects its well-organized, upscale experience—a great choice for a memorable Thanksgiving.
Bottom Line: Excellent for holiday travelers wanting a luxurious, festive dinner cruise with the added bonus of celebrating Thanksgiving in style.
How to Choose the Right Dinner Cruise
Choosing the right dinner cruise depends on your budget, time available, and what kind of experience you’re after. If you want casual fun with plenty of food and games, the DC: City Cruises Buffet Brunch, Lunch, or Dinner Cruise is a solid pick. For a more upscale, romantic night with gourmet food, the Washington DC Premier Dinner Cruise or the Signature Dinner Cruise are excellent options.
Holiday travelers should consider the Thanksgiving Dinner Cruise, while those wanting a family-friendly experience might lean toward the Father’s Day Buffet Cruise. Keep in mind that booking early is advisable, especially during peak seasons or holidays.
Final Thoughts
Washington DC offers a diverse selection of dinner cruises that cater to different preferences and occasions. For a lively, informal evening, the buffet cruises like the Spirit of Washington are hard to beat. If you prefer a luxurious, romantic experience, the 3-course dinners with live music on the Odyssey are fantastic. For special holidays, the themed cruises add a touch of celebration that’s hard to match.
No matter which you choose, booking early and confirming the details will ensure your evening on the Potomac River is both smooth and memorable. These tours turn Washington’s landmarks into a glowing backdrop for good food, great company, and unforgettable views.