Two-hour Washington DC tours pack essential sightseeing into efficient chunks that work well for time-conscious travelers. The Arlington Cemetery walking tour stands out, offering poignant visits to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and Kennedy gravesites. For cultural insights, the U Street heritage tour illuminates the city’s rich African American history through its music venues and civil rights landmarks. The National Mall walking tour is my favorite – it’s practical, informative, and hits the major monuments with expert commentary.
I’m especially fond of the Capitol Hill bike tour, which lets you cover more ground while getting up close to the power centers of American democracy. History buffs and book lovers will appreciate the literary walking tour through Capitol Hill’s historic shops and neighborhoods.
Check out these top-rated tours that showcase the capital’s best features in just 120 minutes.
Good To Know
The Arlington Cemetery Tour by Universal Tour Group USA offers a 2-hour guided walking tour highlighting key sites like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and JFK gravesite.
The African American Heritage Tour on U Street provides a 2-hour walking exploration of significant historical locations, including Howard University, led by guides like Nur and Darren.
The National Mall Walking Tour by Universal Tour Group USA is a 2-hour excursion suitable for first-time visitors and families, covering major monuments with historical context.
The Smithsonian National Museum Tour offers a 2-hour guided exploration of museum exhibits, led by expert guides, with a maximum group size of 20.
Capitol Hill Tours include a 2-hour guided bike tour of landmarks like the White House, Supreme Court, and Capitol Building, as well as a 2-hour book store tour starting at Solid State Books.
2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour
The 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the historic cemetery.
Operated by Universal Tour Group USA, this tour takes guests through the largest military cemetery in the U.S., home to over 400,000 veterans.
Led by a licensed guide, the tour highlights key landmarks like the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, providing in-depth historical context.
The tour can accommodate up to 30 travelers and is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for most visitors.
With a rating of 4.0/5 from 35 reviews, the tour is a popular choice for those seeking an immersive experience at Arlington National Cemetery.
2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC
A 2-hour African-American Heritage Walking Tour of U Street, DC, operated by Universal Tour Group USA, offers visitors an immersive exploration of the city’s rich Black history.
Led by knowledgeable guides like Nur and Darren, the tour takes guests to significant historical locations, including Howard University, and shares stories of the contributions of Black individuals during the Civil War.
While some travelers have reported issues with last-minute cancellations, the majority praise the authenticity and depth of the experience.
Priced at $90 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, making it an engaging and informative way to discover Washington, DC’s African-American heritage.
2-Hour National Mall Walking Tour From Washington DC
Exploring the iconic landmarks of Washington DC’s National Mall becomes an engaging 2-hour walking excursion operated by the experienced guides of Universal Tour Group USA.
With a rating of 3.9 out of 23 reviews, the tour provides an affordable $25 per person option to discover the city’s renowned monuments and sites.
While guide performance varies, many travelers praise their knowledgeable and accommodating tour leaders, such as Maurice, Nour, and Rochelle.
The tour covers major attractions, offering historical context and interesting stories.
Suitable for first-time visitors and families, the walking tour’s flexibility, including free cancellation, makes it a convenient choice for exploring the nation’s capital.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History 2H-Guided Tour
For those seeking a more in-depth exploration of Washington DC’s renowned Smithsonian museums, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History 2H-Guided Tour provides an engaging and informative experience.
Located on the National Mall, this tour allows visitors to discover the museum’s vast collections with the guidance of expert tour guides. With a maximum of 20 travelers per group, the tour offers a personalized and interactive experience.
While the reviews are mixed, with some praising the knowledgeable guides and others citing issues like cancellations and lack of communication, the overall experience is considered worthwhile for those interested in learning more about the museum’s exhibits and collections.
2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill
Boasting unparalleled access to the heart of Washington DC’s political epicenter, the 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill takes visitors on an engaging exploration of the city’s most iconic landmarks.
Cycling past the White House, Supreme Court Building, and Capitol Building, participants learn fascinating insights about the US government from knowledgeable local guides.
With small group sizes ensuring personalized attention, the tour caters to both regular and electric bike riders, providing all necessary equipment including helmets.
Conveniently located near public transportation, this immersive experience is a must for anyone seeking an active and informative introduction to the political pulse of the nation’s capital.
Washington DC 2 Hour Day Tour With 5 to 14 Guests
The Washington, D.C. 3 Hour Day-Time City Tour offers a compact yet comprehensive exploration of the nation’s capital. Priced from $64.99 per person, this tour accommodates up to 53 travelers and departs from the Smithsonian Metro Station.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals. Though the French-speaking guide was unavailable as promised on a previous occasion, the host has acknowledged the issue and appreciates the feedback.
Amenities include phone chargers and umbrellas, and the tour returns to the original meeting point.
With a 2.5/5 rating based on 2 reviews, this tour provides a quick and convenient way to see the highlights of Washington, D.C.
2H Private Guided Tour at the African American Civil War Museum and Memorial
Exploring the African American Civil War Museum and Memorial, this private 2-hour guided tour provides an immersive look into the heroic contributions of the United States Colored Troops.
Located in Washington DC, the tour includes pickup and drop-off from the Bens Chili Bowl mural. Visitors will learn about the museum’s significance in honoring African Americans who fought for freedom during the Civil War.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and close to public transportation.
However, recent reviews indicate an unsuccessful attempt to reach the museum, which was closed for reconstruction, and a refund process that’s still pending.
2 Hours Book Store Tour in Capitol Hill
For book lovers visiting Washington DC, the 2 Hour Book Store Tour in Capitol Hill offers an immersive exploration of the neighborhood’s vibrant literary scene.
This tour starts at Solid State Books and ends at Eastern Market, allowing participants to discover local bookstores, browse through a variety of books and magazines, and enjoy a complimentary soda or pop.
Accessible by public transportation, the tour is wheelchair and stroller friendly. However, it’s not recommended for those with back problems or serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
With a maximum of 4 travelers per tour and prices starting from €77.46 per person, this experience provides a unique way to explore Capitol Hill’s literary landscape.
Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour
Private 2-Hour Arlington Cemetery Guided Walking Tour offers an in-depth exploration of one of the most hallowed grounds in the United States.
Priced at $350.00 for up to 10 people, this private tour provides a knowledgeable guide who’ll lead you through the cemetery’s storied history and iconic landmarks.
You’ll meet outside the Arlington Cemetery metro station and return to the same location after the tour.
The experience is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate.
With a perfect 5-star rating from Viator and TripAdvisor, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of Arlington Cemetery’s profound significance.
The Sum Up
Washington, DC offers an array of 2-hour tours and experiences to suit various interests. From walking tours of historic sites to guided museum visits, there’s something for all to enjoy in the nation’s capital. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s African American heritage, cycle through Capitol Hill, or explore the collections of the Smithsonian, these 2-hour options provide an efficient and informative way to make the most of your time in Washington, DC.