Washington, D.C. Guide

Washington D.C. Monument Tours

Visit Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and iconic memorials!

86+ tours
From $40
3-5 hours
Washington D.C. Monument Tours

Experience Washington D.C.'s iconic monuments - symbols of American democracy! Monument tours explore Washington Monument (555-foot obelisk!), Lincoln Memorial (where MLK spoke!), Jefferson Memorial (Tidal Basin!), Vietnam Veterans Memorial (The Wall), Korean War Memorial, WWII Memorial, FDR Memorial, and MLK Memorial. Visit monuments by day or illuminated at night, learn stories behind each memorial, understand historical context, and experience powerful tributes. Tours include guided experiences, photo opportunities, and historical education. All monuments FREE to visit!

Featured Monument Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for monument tours in Washington, D.C.

Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley
From $48.95
Free Cancellation

You haven't seen Washington DC until you've seen it at night! On this evening 100% live narrated tour, you'll enjoy the sights and sounds of Washington DC, and see first-hand how Washington turns into a magical city when the sun goes down. You cannot miss this experience of a lifetime! Select one of these two departure points: Union Station 50 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington DC, 20002 Washington Welcome Center 1001 E ST. NW, Washington DC, 20004

4.6(3,952)
2h 30m
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No-Wait Washington Monument Direct Entry Tickets & Guidebook
From $25
Skip The Line🔥Likely to Sell Out

This is a direct ticket emailed to you to go to the top of the Washington Monument in DC without waiting in hours-long lines in the early morning to get tickets. There is only a brief security line to pass through with your timed entry pass. No additional costs from hopping on a tour bus and the like. It's simple - we do the waiting, you the sightseeing.

4.7(462)
1h
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DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart
From $61.79
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

See Washington DC’s major sites in a fun, unique way – aboard an electric cart! As you explore Capitol Hill, see famous monuments and landmarks including the White House, US Capitol Building, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Smithsonian and more. These eco-friendly, all-electric vehicles let you enjoy the fresh air while admiring great up-close views of DC's major locations and off-the-beaten-path areas. You'll also hop off your cart to explore some areas by foot. This is a small group experience, with each electric cart limited to a max of 7 people. Whilst we do our best to seat groups together, we aren’t able to guarantee to seat together and at times groups may be asked to sit on separate carts.

4.8(2,842)
2h
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Washington DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour
From $79
Free CancellationNew

Experience the enchanting beauty of Washington, D.C. on our nighttime tours of iconic monuments and memorials. Conveniently visit the sites with a small group (12 max), experiencing more time at each stop vs large group tours. As the sun sets, explore the majestic Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the US Capitol with our expert guides. Enjoy captivating stories and insights while you take in these landmarks under the starry sky. Also, enjoy the bonus audio link for additional information on each site. Guests will have the opportunity to walk around each tour stop for 10-20 minutes to explore. This unforgettable evening adventure promises lasting memories and a deeper appreciation of our nation’s heritage. Join us and illuminate the HEART OF WASHINGTON DC!

5.0(107)
3h
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Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour
From $62
Free Cancellation

See Washington DC's historical monuments and memorials up close and personal on a 3-hour bike tour with an informative guide. Cruise around the National Mall and the Tidal Basin to see some of the most famous sights, and take breaks to walk around and explore attractions like the Lincoln Memorial. Our Monuments tour does cross streets but there is no street riding making it the perfect option for families and those who may not have ridden a bike in an urban environment. On a bike, you're able to see so much more than on foot or on a bus! If you've never taken a city city tour before, DC is a perfect city to give it a try. We know that once you've toured by bike, it will be the first thing you look for on your next trip to another city! Please note that the "what to expect section" provides a sample itinerary and you may tour in a slightly different order based on what may be going on in this busy city on the day of your tour.

4.8(840)
3h
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Skip the Line @ Washington Monument & National Mall Walking Tour
From $75
Free Cancellation

Our small-group walking tour includes tickets to the top of the Washington Monument, so you don't have to wait hours in line at 7am for same-day tickets! Let us explain the history, symbolism, & stories behind the memorials on the National Mall! While encouraging reflection & respect, we keep the tour engaging & fun. On this tour, we will explore • Lincoln Memorial - see the famous statue, hear about our 16th President, see where MLK, Jr. stood to give the "I Have A Dream Speech." • Reflecting Pool - where Forrest Gump ran through to see Jenny. • Vietnam Veterans Memorial - hear the stories behind the wall of names of those killed and missing in action. • Korean War Veterans Memorial - see the 19 statues representing servicemen. • MLK Memorial - honor our Dr. King at the newest memorial on the Tidal Basin. • WWII Memorial - find Kilroy hidden amongst the columns honoring the states and territories. • White House - see the south lawn of the White House where Marine One lands.

4.9(204)
3h
View Details
DC Monuments & Memorials Guided Minibus City Tour
From $49
Free Cancellation

The DC Memorials and Monuments is a comprehensive tour of the Monuments and Memorials with experienced tour guide. Guests will visit all the Monuments and Memorials while learning fascinating facts from our tour guide, making your visit a memorable one.

4.6(23)
3h
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Monuments of DC Tour with Washington Monument or Museum Tickets
From $59
Free Cancellation

See Washington DC’s iconic monuments in a single morning on a Guided Morning Sightseeing Bus & Walking Tour with an experienced guide. Pass by over 20+ sites including National Archives, Freedom Plaza, Jefferson Memorial and stop for photos outside top locations including the White House, US Capitol, MLK Memorial, and more. Hear insider stories about DC’s politicians and historic figures as you explore their moving war memorials, Presidential sites and government buildings, and get the perfect introduction to America’s capital city. Tours will conclude at the Washington Monument where travelers will be provided Admission Tickets for self-guided entry into the attraction. Many tours are offered of the various monuments and landmarks of the nation's capital but very few include the Washington Monument. Though you can view it by riding by on a regular tour, this tour offers you a unique chance to get a peek inside and climb to the top of the structure.

4.0(39)
5h
View Details
Washington DC Monuments Self-Guided Walking Audio Tour
From $16.99
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Visit the most famous landmarks of America’s capital city! See the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Capitol Building, Smithsonian Museums, and much more, and learn the revolutionary history behind the creation of Washington, D.C. Note: Some key stops are located farther apart and require a short drive, as they can’t be easily reached by walking. After booking, check your email/text for a special password and setup instructions. Download the Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and once it's complete, you can enjoy it offline. Just open the app, hit the road, and follow the audio instructions! Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.

4.6(15)
1h
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National Mall & Monuments Tour with Reserved Washington Monument
From $59
Free Cancellation

See the very best of Washington DC in a single morning on this guided 3-hour National Mall bus tour. Travel comfortably on a climate-controlled coach while your knowledgeable local guide brings the city’s history, architecture, and landmarks to life. This tour features 10 iconic stops where you’ll hop off the bus to walk, explore, and take photos of the most famous monuments and memorials: White House (exterior) U.S. Capitol (exterior) Lincoln Memorial Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial World War II Memorial FDR Memorial Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall Vietnam Women’s Memorial Korean War Veterans Memorial U.S. Marine Corps (Iwo Jima) Memorial At each stop, enjoy 10–20 minutes to explore the area with your guide, take memorable photos, and hear stories that bring the history to life. Upgrades: Enhance your tour experience with self-guided entry to the Washington Monument, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, or National Museum of African American History and Culture.

4.3(112)
3h
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Small Group Monuments Tour with Changing of the Guard
From $85
Free Cancellation

Discover the rich history of Washington, D.C., on a personalized tour in the language of your choice—Italian, Portuguese, or Spanish! Our expert guides will take you through iconic landmarks like Arlington Cemetery, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Korean War Memorial, offering fascinating stories and historical insights at every stop. Travel in ultimate comfort in our luxury vehicles, including the spacious Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van or Cadillac Escalade Full-Size SUV. Our guides don’t just inform—they make history come alive, ensuring your experience is both educational and fun. Capture unforgettable moments with plenty of photo opportunities at each monument. We’re committed to making your experience seamless. If a time slot is fully booked, simply message us through Viator, and we’ll do everything to accommodate you. With multiple vehicles and professional guides available, your tour is guaranteed to be memorable. Book your tour today and immerse yourself in D.C.’s history!

4.7(134)
4h
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Monumental Electric Bike Tour
From $89
Free Cancellation

See All of The Mall! Our Monumental Electric Bike Tour route covers the whole National Mall from The Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial and all the way around the Tidal Basin. E-bikes are the hot new trend in cycling. Come on tour to see what the hype is all about while learning about the monuments and memorials in "America's Front Yard".

4.7(99)
3h
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Private Washington DC City Tour | Monuments Tour
From $348
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Crown DC Limo Service provide extensive tour of Washington DC at affordable rates. ​ We will take you to explore the beauty of DC. Experience the best tour service with exotic limos at lowest rates. We are #1 Rated tour operator in Washington DC.

4.5(190)
3h
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National Mall Tour with Reserved Entry to Washington Monument
From $44
Free Cancellation

The National Mall is the most-visited national park in the United States. But with a myriad of routes available and comprising over 1,000 acres of green space in the heart of the nation's capital, it can be difficult to know how to make your own way across this storied expanse. On this National Mall tour, you'll follow an expert guide along a hand-curated path that will showcase some of America's most iconic and significant sites, including the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and so much more—unlocking their little-known stories and secrets as you go. Along the way, you'll learn which is the most-filmed monument in the park, follow Dr. King's footsteps as you stand where he delivered the "I have a Dream" speech that changed history, and wrap up your experience by taking in the incredible views from the top of the Washington Monument, with hard-to-get tickets secured in advance.

4.8(20)
2h 30m
View Details
Monuments and Memorials Night Walking Tour
From $43
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Experience the National Mall like never before on this enchanting night tour. A journey from the illuminated Washington Monument to the glowing Lincoln Memorial, passing iconic landmarks such as the World War II Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial, all beautifully lit against the night sky. This evening adventure offers a unique and breathtaking perspective on American history, framed by stunning architecture and powerful tributes that shine even brighter after dark.

5.0(8)
2h
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Why Choose Monument Tours in Washington, D.C.?

Washington Monument

555-foot obelisk - tallest structure in D.C., iconic!

Lincoln Memorial

Where MLK gave "I Have a Dream" speech - powerful site!

War Memorials

Vietnam, Korea, WWII - moving tributes to service!

All FREE

Every monument free to visit - accessible to everyone!

Types of Monument Tours in Washington, D.C.

Major Monuments Tour

Visit Washington, Lincoln, and key memorials.

3-4 hoursTop monumentsWalkingGuidedComprehensive

Night Monuments Tour

See illuminated monuments after dark.

3 hoursNightLit monumentsLess crowdsMagical

Tidal Basin Walk

Jefferson, FDR, MLK around Tidal Basin.

2 hoursTidal BasinCherry blossomsScenicBeautiful

War Memorials Tour

Focus on Vietnam, Korea, WWII memorials.

2-3 hoursWar memorialsMovingEducationalRespectful

What to Expect on Your Washington D.C. Monument Tours

Duration

Major monuments: 3-4 hours. Night tour: 3 hours. Tidal Basin: 2 hours.

Washington Monument

555-foot obelisk - free timed tickets to go to top (advance booking!).

Lincoln Memorial

Seated Lincoln, "I Have a Dream" step marker, powerful atmosphere!

Reflecting Pool

Mirror pool between Lincoln and WWII - iconic photo!

Vietnam Wall

58,000+ names of fallen - moving and sobering memorial.

Tidal Basin

Jefferson, MLK, FDR memorials around water - cherry blossoms beautiful!

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Washington Monument timed tickets FREE but reserve online weeks ahead!

2

Night tours show monuments lit beautifully - highly recommended.

3

Lincoln Memorial stairs where MLK spoke - stand where history happened.

4

Vietnam Wall organized by date of death - find names on database.

5

Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) Tidal Basin stunning but packed!

6

Jefferson Memorial sunset views beautiful.

7

All monuments have 24/7 access - night visiting popular.

8

Bring water - lots of walking, summer heat intense!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Can you go to top of Washington Monument?

A: Yes! FREE timed tickets (reserve online weeks ahead at recreation.gov). Elevator to 500-foot observation. 360° D.C. views. Limited slots - book early! Walk-up tickets sometimes available at 9 AM (line early!). Worth the effort!

Q:Are monuments free?

A: ALL monuments completely FREE! 24/7 access. Washington Monument needs free timed ticket to go inside. Otherwise unrestricted access. No entrance fees. American treasure accessible to everyone!

Q:What is the best monument in D.C.?

A: Lincoln Memorial most iconic - seated Lincoln, MLK speech site, powerful! Washington Monument tallest. Vietnam Wall most moving. Jefferson beautiful (Tidal Basin). All significant - visit multiple! Each offers different emotional impact.

Q:Can you visit monuments at night?

A: Yes! 24/7 access to all outdoor monuments. Beautiful after dark - dramatic lighting, fewer crowds, magical atmosphere. Night tours popular (7-10 PM). Very safe - park rangers present. Lincoln Memorial especially stunning lit!

Q:How far apart are monuments?

A: National Mall is 2 miles from Capitol to Lincoln. Monuments spread across. Walking possible but lots! Bike/Segway tours cover more efficiently. Tidal Basin adds another mile. Budget 3-4 hours walking minimum!

Q:What is the Vietnam Wall?

A: Vietnam Veterans Memorial lists 58,000+ names of Americans killed/missing in Vietnam War. Black granite wall, organized by date of death. Deeply moving. Directory helps find names. FREE. Visitors leave mementos - emotional tribute.

Q:When is cherry blossom season?

A: Late March-early April (peak varies yearly!). Tidal Basin (Jefferson Memorial) most beautiful. National Cherry Blossom Festival. PACKED but gorgeous! Monitor peak bloom forecasts. Book accommodations way ahead!

Q:How much do monument tours cost?

A: Monuments: FREE! Guided walking tours: $40-75 (3-4 hours). Night tours: $50-80. Bike/Segway: $55-90. Self-guided completely free - tours add historical context and stories!

Don't Miss the Perfect Washington, D.C. Experience

Book your monument tours today - 86+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Washington, D.C.?

Iconic National Mall and historic monuments

World-class Smithsonian museums

Capitol Hill and political significance

Rich American history and culture

Beautiful architecture and memorials

Perfect blend of politics and culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Washington, D.C. enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (75-90°F/24-32°C), winters are cold (30-45°F/-1-7°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

March to May and September to November offer the best weather with mild temperatures, beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

December to February offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and occasional snow.

Plan Your Washington, D.C. Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation with Metro rail and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the National Mall, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in Washington, D.C.

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your Washington, D.C. adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in Washington, D.C.

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Discover the best tours and activities in Washington, D.C. with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.