Washington DC: Hop-on Hop-off Tour and 1-Day Water Taxi Pass

Summary Description

Experience Washington DC’s highlights on a flexible combo including 24-hour hop-on hop-off bus tour and a scenic Potomac Water Taxi pass. Discover the White House, Smithsonian museums, and more, all at your own pace.

Highlights
  • Marvel at the White House and Lincoln Memorial
  • Cruise the Potomac River for stunning city views
  • Hop off and explore Smithsonian museums
  • Connect key spots: Georgetown, Alexandria, The Wharf
  • Explore at your own pace via bus and boat access
Description

Make your Washington DC adventure unforgettable with the Hop-On Bus and Potomac Water Taxi Combo! Cruise by must-see sites like the White House, Lincoln Memorial, and bustling Smithsonian museums from the open-top bus, then switch to the scenic Water Taxi for a fresh city perspective. Enjoy seamless travel between famed neighborhoods such as The Wharf, Georgetown, and Old Town Alexandria with flexible, easy transfer points. 

Audio commentary in multiple languages keeps you clued in as iconic landmarks pass by—and you can hop on or off at any stop. Perfect for travelers who want the best of DC, with panoramic views and total flexibility.

Included / Excluded
  • 24-hour hop-on hop-off ticket - Red Loop Only
  • Unlimited 1-Day Water Taxi Pass
  • Official Tour Provider of the National Parks Service
  • Pre-recorded audio commentary in multiple languages
  • Entry tickets to attractions
  • Food and drinks
  • Hotel transfers
  • Live guide
  • Blue Loop
Commentary

Audio : English, French, German, Spanish, Portuguese

Important Information
Know Before You Book
  • Wheelchair accessible vehicles available
  • Water Taxi operates March–December; not available year-round
  • Only service animals allowed on the Water Taxi; no pets permitted
Know Before You Go
  • Bring a hat and sunscreen for the outdoor bus and boat decks
  • Check Water Taxi dates & schedules before visiting—seasonal operation
  • Download Big Bus Tours app for ticket redemption and maps
  • Allow extra travel time during peak seasons
Cancellation

Cancellation Cutoff: 24 hours

Cancellation Notes: Up to 24 hours before the beginning of the activity: full refund Less than 24 hours before the beginning of the activity or no-show: no refund

Additional Information

Please present your Water Taxi confirmation at any City Experiences ticket booth to receive your boarding pass.

Redemption Information

Your voucher will be collected or scanned on redemption

FAQ

When does the Potomac Water Taxi operate?

Toggle FAQ

The Potomac Water Taxi runs seasonally from March through December, with routes connecting The Wharf, Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor. The Potomac Water Taxi runs seasonally from March through December. Departure times vary by day and location, so it's best to check the schedule in advance.

Is the Water Taxi pet-friendly?

Toggle FAQ

Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on board. Only service animals are permitted, in compliance with ADA guidelines

Water taxi - What happens in bad weather?

Toggle FAQ

The Water Taxi operates rain or shine, but trips may be cancelled only if the U.S. Coast Guard closes the river due to severe weather. Always check conditions before heading to the dock

Where can I connect with Big Bus Tours?

Toggle FAQ

If you have a ticket to Big Bus Tours, please transfer between the water taxi and bus service at the Big Bus Tours Stop 5, located at the DC Wharf.

About operator:

Big Bus Tours offers a reliable and convenient way to explore the world’s most iconic cities. Our open-top, hop-on hop-off buses follow thoughtfully-designed routes that connect the landmarks, neighborhoods, and attractions visitors most want to see—making it easy to navigate a new city with confidence.

 With the freedom to hop off and explore whenever something catches your interest, then hop back on to continue your journey, guests can experience the city at their own pace. Along the way, engaging audio commentary adds context, stories, and local insights that turn sightseeing into a sense of discovery.

 From panoramic views on the open top deck to dependable service throughout the day, Big Bus Tours combines comfort, flexibility, and exploration—helping travelers experience the highlights of a city while uncovering the stories that make it unique.


Basic Information
  • Duration: 1 day
  • Trip difficulty: Easy
  • Category: Tours & Sightseeing
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