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PROFESSIONALLY GUIDED SMALL GROUP DAY & NIGHT TOURS OF THE NATIONAL MALL

Washington DC is one of the most visited cities on the planet- home to legendary monuments on the National Mall plus the three branches of the US Government. DC is a blend of iconic buildings and memorials as well as a symbol of Democracy and Freedom. On a See DC Guided Tour, you will be accompanied on a ten-mile exploration by van and foot. Your driver will drop your small group as close as legally possible while your Five Star Guide will be with you every step of the way to highlight the backstories of our national treasures. Lots of time to ask questions and build memories with excellent photo ops as famous scenes unfold at every stop!

explore the history of america with a guided tour

As one of our most popular guided tours in Washington, DC, our National Mall tour is an iconic sightseeing experience unlike any other! With our friendly tour guides by your side, you’ll gain an insider’s perspective on revolutionary historical figures, witness exquisite architecture up close and personal, and experience our nation’s most famous monuments with a wealth of historical knowledge adding value to every stop. 

Stretching from the Washington Monument to the U.S. Capitol Building, you’ll be amazed at the incredible variety of attractions we visit. Our well-planned guided tours fit every worthwhile attraction into the trip while ensuring that there’s plenty of time to rest and enjoy each location with a more relaxed approach to guided tours.

While cruising the inaugural route, you’ll view a spectrum of breathtaking Washington, DC architecture that’s easily overlooked without an experienced guide. While enjoying our escorted group tours on-foot, we’ll stroll beneath the American elms lining the National Mall’s lawn, explore favorite spots like the Lincoln Memorial and White House, and discuss a wealth of insightful facts that are destined to expand your historical appreciation. 

In addition to the benefits that come with a professionally guided experience, other advantages of booking with us at See DC Today include: 

  • Professionally Secured Vans Protect Your Belongings
  • Complimentary Water Bottles & Charging Ports
  • Smaller Group Sizes for a More Exclusive Experience
  • Access to Convenient Restrooms Throughout the Tour
  • A Relaxed Pace for More Photos & Time to Explore! 
 
Unlike other crowded guide services where you simply follow along and listen, our escorted group tours are designed to be a more immersive experience. We want you to feel the rich heritage, explore the beautiful monuments at your own pace, and gain a well-rounded perspective with tour guides who are truly passionate about sharing their wealth of historical expertise. 

expert tour guides in washington dc

While our best-rated guided tours revolve around sharing rich historical information, you’ll find that our friendly tour guides’ lighthearted and relaxed style of service adds value to every beautiful sightseeing. Guided tours should be fun, and we never settle for a bland or forgettable experience. Perfect for kids and adults alike, if you have a passion for learning and want to explore more architecture and history in a single worthwhile trip, then our National Mall Tour should be the first stop in your Washington, DC travel plans!  

With every all-inclusive guided tour, our tour guides never hesitate to accommodate any questions or concerns you may have. Our tour guides are licensed and highly trained, and we hope to impress you with the range of tough historical questions we can answer! Our tour guides have years of experience providing exceptional guide service, and whether we’re at the White House or the Lincoln Memorial, we’re always open to questions and assist in any way that we can. 

The same can be said about our careful drivers and other quality-of-life accommodations included with every Washington, DC trip. We remain among the best-rated guided tours because we’ve done everything that we can to enhance the comfort and accessibility of our experience. Our smooth-ride vans are professionally cleaned and outfitted with climate-controlled comfort and chargers, and our spacious vehicles can comfortably seat up to 11 passengers for an adventure that’s as relaxing as it is informative and fun! 

Ford's Theater newly built in 1864 was the scene of one of greatest tragedies of our history- the assassination of Abraham Lincoln on April 15 1865. Your Guide will recreate the events leading up to that night and how it all ties into the surrender of Robert E Lee that had occurred just 3 days earlier...
Ford's Theater newly built in 1864 was the scene of one of greatest tragedies of our history- the assassination of Abraham Lincoln on April 15 1865. Your Guide will recreate the events leading up to that night and how it all ties into the surrender of Robert E Lee that had occurred just 3 days earlier...
As we turn left onto Pennsylvania Avenue from Ford's Theater you'll be treated to a wonderful vista- the United States Capitol is in the distance and you will be traveling along one of the most famous roadways in America- the Inaugural Route. You've seen it on TV every 4 years as the Inaugural Parade is led by the newly elected President of the United States.
As we turn left onto Pennsylvania Avenue from Ford's Theater you'll be treated to a wonderful vista- the United States Capitol is in the distance and you will be traveling along one of the most famous roadways in America- the Inaugural Route. You've seen it on TV every 4 years as the Inaugural Parade is led by the newly elected President of the United States.
You'll be in for a walk in the park - a magnificent park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted at the US Capitol stop on our Guided Day Tour. Your Guide will make sure you won't miss a thing on the grounds; you'll leave knowing about tunnels, how the Dome itself got built and rebuilt, plus the background symbolism of the alignment of the monuments as seen from the US Capitol.
You'll be in for a walk in the park - a magnificent park designed by Frederick Law Olmsted at the US Capitol stop on our Guided Day Tour. Your Guide will make sure you won't miss a thing on the grounds; you'll leave knowing about tunnels, how the Dome itself got built and rebuilt, plus the background symbolism of the alignment of the monuments as seen from the US Capitol.
They've been named the Greatest Generation... those men and women who fought and died for freedom in World War II. Walk round the spectacular fountain at the World War II Memorial with your Guide and learn how the memorial itself is designed to honor these heroes and the states and territories they hailed from.
They've been named the Greatest Generation... those men and women who fought and died for freedom in World War II. Walk round the spectacular fountain at the World War II Memorial with your Guide and learn how the memorial itself is designed to honor these heroes and the states and territories they hailed from.
Thomas Jefferson was Franklin Roosevelt's favorite President and Mr. Roosevelt made sure Mr. Jefferson got a fitting monument. Situated in a dreamy spot on the banks of the Tidal Basin, your Guide will lead your exploration of this poetic memorial inspired by Jefferson's home at Monticello as well as his lofty ideas captured in the Declaration of Independence.
Thomas Jefferson was Franklin Roosevelt's favorite President and Mr. Roosevelt made sure Mr. Jefferson got a fitting monument. Situated in a dreamy spot on the banks of the Tidal Basin, your Guide will lead your exploration of this poetic memorial inspired by Jefferson's home at Monticello as well as his lofty ideas captured in the Declaration of Independence.
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial is based on words from MLK"S 1963 I have a Dream Speech: OUT OF A MOUNTAIN OF DESPAIR... THE STONE OF HOPE. On our Guided Day Tours your Guide will lead your group among the serene cherry trees and lovely outer garden through the Mountain of Despair. You'll arrive quickly at the Stone of Hope where the bas-relief sculpture of Dr. Martin Luter King gazes across the Tidal Basin. Surrounding you are quotes from MLK"s speeches positioned on gracefully curving walls amid soft waterfalls and the reflection of the Tidal Basin.
The Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial is based on words from MLK"S 1963 I have a Dream Speech: OUT OF A MOUNTAIN OF DESPAIR... THE STONE OF HOPE. On our Guided Day Tours your Guide will lead your group among the serene cherry trees and lovely outer garden through the Mountain of Despair. You'll arrive quickly at the Stone of Hope where the bas-relief sculpture of Dr. Martin Luter King gazes across the Tidal Basin. Surrounding you are quotes from MLK"s speeches positioned on gracefully curving walls amid soft waterfalls and the reflection of the Tidal Basin.
The unforgettable Korean War Memorial is evocative, featuring a larger-than-life-size platoon of US GI's on patrol in Korea in the early 1950's, It is loaded with deep questions about the price of ultimate sacrifice....Is Freedom free ....hovers in the air. Your Guide will point out elements here that most visitors entirely miss... When the renovation is complete later in 2022 the Korean War Memorial will contain the names of all US and Korean soldiers killed or missing in action.
The unforgettable Korean War Memorial is evocative, featuring a larger-than-life-size platoon of US GI's on patrol in Korea in the early 1950's, It is loaded with deep questions about the price of ultimate sacrifice....Is Freedom free ....hovers in the air. Your Guide will point out elements here that most visitors entirely miss... When the renovation is complete later in 2022 the Korean War Memorial will contain the names of all US and Korean soldiers killed or missing in action.
Your Guide will lead your exploration up the 58 steps to the Statuary Chamber, around the outer walkway of the entire Lincoln Memorial and assist with photos of your group.
Your Guide will lead your exploration up the 58 steps to the Statuary Chamber, around the outer walkway of the entire Lincoln Memorial and assist with photos of your group.
President Lincoln was quick witted - a quipster. When accused of being two-faced he retorted words to the effect: 'Do you think with a face like this I'd ever want two?' Decide for yourself: the face of the statue of a seated Lincoln, gazing towards the US Capitol, symbol of the country he re-united, was copied from a life-mask and photos.
President Lincoln was quick witted - a quipster. When accused of being two-faced he retorted words to the effect: 'Do you think with a face like this I'd ever want two?' Decide for yourself: the face of the statue of a seated Lincoln, gazing towards the US Capitol, symbol of the country he re-united, was copied from a life-mask and photos.
Spend a morning on the Mall on our Guided Day Tour. At the Vietnam Memorial place your hands on the 300 foot, sun-warm, black stone wall containing the names of over 58,000 young men and women killed or missing in action. Your Guide will reveal the code on the wall and the deep connection between 2 more statuary memorial nearby that tie in with the wall.
Spend a morning on the Mall on our Guided Day Tour. At the Vietnam Memorial place your hands on the 300 foot, sun-warm, black stone wall containing the names of over 58,000 young men and women killed or missing in action. Your Guide will reveal the code on the wall and the deep connection between 2 more statuary memorial nearby that tie in with the wall.
On Feb 22 1945 six Marines stood tall and raised the American flag on a mountain top above one of the longest, bloodiest and last battlegrounds of World War II. The Marine Corps / Iwo Jima Memorial, located just across the Potomac in Northern Va, is part of all Guided Day Tours. Listen as your Guide unfolds the incredible backstory of the battle and the memorial itself!
On Feb 22 1945 six Marines stood tall and raised the American flag on a mountain top above one of the longest, bloodiest and last battlegrounds of World War II. The Marine Corps / Iwo Jima Memorial, located just across the Potomac in Northern Va, is part of all Guided Day Tours. Listen as your Guide unfolds the incredible backstory of the battle and the memorial itself!
The very first building begun in the new Federal City was the White House. In 1792 George Washington laid the cornerstone. By 1800 the White became home to all US Presidents forever more. You'll be accompanied by your Guide through what was once the front yard of the White House (now Lafayette Square) and watch the political drama unfold - everyday it's different - as your group learns the history of the most historic block in town.
The very first building begun in the new Federal City was the White House. In 1792 George Washington laid the cornerstone. By 1800 the White became home to all US Presidents forever more. You'll be accompanied by your Guide through what was once the front yard of the White House (now Lafayette Square) and watch the political drama unfold - everyday it's different - as your group learns the history of the most historic block in town.
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PROFESSIONALLY GUIDED SMALL Group day tour of the national mall (9:00 Am to 1:00 Pm)

  • 4 hours
view Reviews

During Guided Small Group Day Tours our expert tour guides use natural light to point out carvings, inscriptions and vistas not discernible after dark. With never more than 11 guests our Guided Small Group Day Tours are perfect for getting answers to how world famous buildings like the US Congress and the White House actually operate- as you watch the bustle unfold!

Our Guided Small Group Day Tours meet up / drop off in front of the Washington Grand Hyatt at 11th and H St, NW, on the Starbucks side.

Tour stops (some with restrooms) include:

  • The US Capitol
  • The White House
  • Ford’s Theatre
  • World War II Memorial
  • Jefferson Memorial
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
  • Lincoln Memorial
  • Viet Nam Memorial
  • Marine Corps Memorial / Iwo Jima
  • The Korean War Memorial
  • The U.S. Capitol
  • Smithsonian Castle
  • WW II Memorial
  • Thomas Jefferson Memorial
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Read Less
  • Lincoln Memorial
  • Korean War Memorial
  • Marine Corp Memorial
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • White House
The Washington Monument is easily viewed from most of the stops on our Guided Day Tour; we will drive by 4 sides of the Washington Monument but only stop if traffic permits.
$120Each
VIEW TOUR

expert Tour Guides in Washington DC

While our best-rated guided tours revolve around sharing rich historical information, you’ll find that our friendly tour guides’ lighthearted and relaxed style of service adds value to every beautiful sightseeing. Guided tours should be fun, and we never settle for a bland or forgettable experience. Perfect for kids and adults alike, if you have a passion for learning and want to explore more architecture and history in a single worthwhile trip, then our National Mall Tour should be the first stop in your Washington, DC travel plans!

With every all-inclusive guided tour, our tour guides never hesitate to accommodate any questions or concerns you may have. Our tour guides are licensed and highly trained, and we hope to impress you with the range of tough historical questions we can answer! Our tour guides have years of experience providing exceptional guide service, and whether we’re at the White House or the Lincoln Memorial, we’re always open to questions and assist in any way that we can. 

The same can be said about our careful drivers and other quality-of-life accommodations included with every Washington, DC trip. We remain among the best-rated guided tours because we’ve done everything that we can to enhance the comfort and accessibility of our experience. Our smooth-ride vans are professionally cleaned and outfitted with climate-controlled comfort and chargers, and our spacious vehicles can comfortably seat up to 11 passengers for an adventure that’s as relaxing as it is informative and fun! 

Are You Looking to Book a Guided Tour of DC?

Our flexible guided tours in Washington, DC make it easy to plan for your trip. Our day tours in Washington, DC are perfect for memorable family trips, business groups, and couples hoping to enjoy the best sights in the city any day of the week. For an even better perspective of Washington, DC, our nighttime guided tours highlight the best of DCs monuments and landmarks from an incredibly charming perspective of the city after the sun has set. 

Ready to schedule an unforgettable tour of Washington, DC today? Get in touch with us for free information, and flexible scheduling and our professional guides will take care of the rest. 

At dusk the events of April 15, 1865 loom large in the shadows at 511 10th St, NW, Ford's Theater. Your Guide will take you through the timeline of that fateful night. Even now it is easy to imagine the First Lady and President Lincoln entering the theater to Hail to the Chief as they celebrate the surrender of Robert E Lee. The evening would be cut short by an assassin's bullet ... the dying President removed from the theater to a bed in a rooming house across the street, while the assassin escaped into thin air!
At dusk the events of April 15, 1865 loom large in the shadows at 511 10th St, NW, Ford's Theater. Your Guide will take you through the timeline of that fateful night. Even now it is easy to imagine the First Lady and President Lincoln entering the theater to Hail to the Chief as they celebrate the surrender of Robert E Lee. The evening would be cut short by an assassin's bullet ... the dying President removed from the theater to a bed in a rooming house across the street, while the assassin escaped into thin air!
At twilight the US Capitol positioned atop Capitol HIll glows with a serene, inner beauty - capturing the aspirations of all Americans to pursue happiness - one of the founding principles of our democracy. The Capitol dome is one of the most famous symbols of our Republic . Your Guide will point out vistas and connections both visible from US Capitol and implied by the US Capitol, as your group explores the Capitol grounds plus the enormous Grant statue positioned directly to the west.
At twilight the US Capitol positioned atop Capitol HIll glows with a serene, inner beauty - capturing the aspirations of all Americans to pursue happiness - one of the founding principles of our democracy. The Capitol dome is one of the most famous symbols of our Republic . Your Guide will point out vistas and connections both visible from US Capitol and implied by the US Capitol, as your group explores the Capitol grounds plus the enormous Grant statue positioned directly to the west.
Although it was 50+ years in the making (your Guide will explain that gap) the World War II Memorial is spectacular day or night. But in the dark the waters of the center fountain seem even more joyful - the symbol of the spirit of American GI's as they returned home from the evil's of war to restart their lives in peace and prosperity. The fountain is surrounded by columns saluting the states and territories which sent men and material to the war effort ... including a Wall of Stars in honor of those soldiers who did not return home.
Although it was 50+ years in the making (your Guide will explain that gap) the World War II Memorial is spectacular day or night. But in the dark the waters of the center fountain seem even more joyful - the symbol of the spirit of American GI's as they returned home from the evil's of war to restart their lives in peace and prosperity. The fountain is surrounded by columns saluting the states and territories which sent men and material to the war effort ... including a Wall of Stars in honor of those soldiers who did not return home.
After writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Jefferson was sent by the newly formed nation in 1785 to France, our greatest ally, to represent us there. From France Jefferson widened his travels and discovered both Greek and Roman architecture. Bringing visions of columns and domes back to America Jefferson rebuilt his own home at Monticello with a classic domed roof and along the way introduced domes and columns to America.
After writing the Declaration of Independence in 1776, Jefferson was sent by the newly formed nation in 1785 to France, our greatest ally, to represent us there. From France Jefferson widened his travels and discovered both Greek and Roman architecture. Bringing visions of columns and domes back to America Jefferson rebuilt his own home at Monticello with a classic domed roof and along the way introduced domes and columns to America.
When FDR built the Jefferson Memorial on the Tidal Basin, he made sure it was domed with columns and that it aligned perfectly with the White House where Jefferson worked for 8 years! The night view of the White House from the Jefferson Memorial is spectacular.
When FDR built the Jefferson Memorial on the Tidal Basin, he made sure it was domed with columns and that it aligned perfectly with the White House where Jefferson worked for 8 years! The night view of the White House from the Jefferson Memorial is spectacular.
Sculpted from cream marble and sited on the banks of the Tidal Basin, the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial, is composed of curving walls where quotes from MLK appear, as well as magnificent gardens - including Cherry trees - surrounding the bas-relief statue of a resolute MLK with his I Have a Dream speech securely in his right hand.
Sculpted from cream marble and sited on the banks of the Tidal Basin, the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial, is composed of curving walls where quotes from MLK appear, as well as magnificent gardens - including Cherry trees - surrounding the bas-relief statue of a resolute MLK with his I Have a Dream speech securely in his right hand.
In the distance Your Guide will point out the Jefferson Memorial on the far side of the Tidal Basin. In the evening It creates a rippling double vision in the surface of the water casting a show of dappled light throughout the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial.
In the distance Your Guide will point out the Jefferson Memorial on the far side of the Tidal Basin. In the evening It creates a rippling double vision in the surface of the water casting a show of dappled light throughout the Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial.
The Korean War Memorial is positioned so close to the Potomac River that mists blow in most nights, shrouding this platoon of seven-foot tall soldiers in an erie halo.
The Korean War Memorial is positioned so close to the Potomac River that mists blow in most nights, shrouding this platoon of seven-foot tall soldiers in an erie halo.
The Korean War Memorial is presently under construction, The Platoon can be visited as well as the reflecting wall next to it where those same statues can be seen as a ghostly mirror image. Your Guide will reveal the vision behind this imagery. When the renovation is complete the Korean War Memorial will contain the names of every American and South Korean soldier killed or missing in that war.
The Korean War Memorial is presently under construction, The Platoon can be visited as well as the reflecting wall next to it where those same statues can be seen as a ghostly mirror image. Your Guide will reveal the vision behind this imagery. When the renovation is complete the Korean War Memorial will contain the names of every American and South Korean soldier killed or missing in that war.
Lincoln Memorial at twilight is magical. At sunset clouds hovering over the nearby Potomac River glow in shades of orange, pink and purple creating a surreal composition.
Lincoln Memorial at twilight is magical. At sunset clouds hovering over the nearby Potomac River glow in shades of orange, pink and purple creating a surreal composition.
Your Guide will lead your group up the 58 steps to the world- famous statue of a seated Lincoln. Along the way you'll stop on the landing where the "I Have a Dream" marker indicates where MLK gave his famous speech. Upon arriving in the chamber our 16th President will be gazing out at a remarkable vision. Follow his gaze - then capture a night shot of the US Capitol, Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool aligned, radiant against the darkening sky.
Your Guide will lead your group up the 58 steps to the world- famous statue of a seated Lincoln. Along the way you'll stop on the landing where the "I Have a Dream" marker indicates where MLK gave his famous speech. Upon arriving in the chamber our 16th President will be gazing out at a remarkable vision. Follow his gaze - then capture a night shot of the US Capitol, Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool aligned, radiant against the darkening sky.
The Reflecting Pool by night glitters majestically capturing the dramatic reflections from both the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. But don't be fooled. The romantic Reflecting Pool was actually the engineering answer to a major problem facing DC in the early 1900's: where to put the water from the swampy terrain plaguing the Mall area west of the Washington Monument. Savvy city planners created a pool for all that water! Today the Reflection pool is a made-for-TV favorite sought after for its stunning sightlines and soft breezes. Your guide will assist as your group explores the area around the pool. Your guide will assist as your group explores the area around the pool made famous by the move Forest Gump.
The Reflecting Pool by night glitters majestically capturing the dramatic reflections from both the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. But don't be fooled. The romantic Reflecting Pool was actually the engineering answer to a major problem facing DC in the early 1900's: where to put the water from the swampy terrain plaguing the Mall area west of the Washington Monument. Savvy city planners created a pool for all that water! Today the Reflection pool is a made-for-TV favorite sought after for its stunning sightlines and soft breezes. Your guide will assist as your group explores the area around the pool. Your guide will assist as your group explores the area around the pool made famous by the move Forest Gump.
The Vietnam War Memorial is composed of black granite and contains the names of over 58,000 US soldiers killed or missing in action. Though somber after dark the Vietnam Memorial is well lit throughout. It gleams as its 493 foot long walls are haloed against the darkness of the Mall. It has become a shrine where families from all over the United States leave Vietnam era photos and letters at the location on the wall where the name of their loved one appears. If you are searching for a name, let us know. Names are not in alpha order but there is a nearby (and online) alpha directory indicating name location. Your Guide will be honored to help find a name and to interpret the symbols - aside from names - found on the wall.
The Vietnam War Memorial is composed of black granite and contains the names of over 58,000 US soldiers killed or missing in action. Though somber after dark the Vietnam Memorial is well lit throughout. It gleams as its 493 foot long walls are haloed against the darkness of the Mall. It has become a shrine where families from all over the United States leave Vietnam era photos and letters at the location on the wall where the name of their loved one appears. If you are searching for a name, let us know. Names are not in alpha order but there is a nearby (and online) alpha directory indicating name location. Your Guide will be honored to help find a name and to interpret the symbols - aside from names - found on the wall.
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PROFESSIONALLY GUIDED SMALL Group Night tour of the national mall (7:00 pm to 10:00 Pm)

  • 3 hours
view Reviews

Come along with us In the hush of evening as the romantic side of Washington DC is unveiled. Our Guided Small Group Night Tour – never more than 11 guests – includes 8 miles of touring. This is a convivial 3 hour tour – questions welcome – in a comfortable, climate controlled, tall-roof van. Our Five Star Guides will point out glittering vistas then invite you to join their walking explorations at 10 world famous, dramatically lit sites.

Our Guided Small Group Night Tours meet up / drop off in front of the Washington Grand Hyatt at 11th and H St, NW, on the Starbucks side.

Tour stops (some with restrooms) include:

  • The US Capitol
  • The White House
  • Ford’s Theatre
  • World War II Memorial
  • Jefferson Memorial
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
  • Lincoln Memorial
  • The Reflecting Pool
  • Vietnam Memorial
  • The Korean War Memorial
  • The U.S. Capitol
  • Smithsonian Castle
  • WW II Memorial
  • Thomas Jefferson Memorial
  • Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Read Less
  • Lincoln Memorial
  • Korean War Memorial
  • Marine Corp Memorial
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • White House
$120Each
VIEW TOUR

COMPLIMENTARY
WATER

RESTROOM
BREAKS

GET OUT AND
TAKE PHOTOS

CLIMATE
CONTROLLED VAN

SMALL GROUP
TOUR

TYPES OF CHARGERS
IN VAN