Getting Around Washington DC

Get ready to #VacationMore with Old Town Trolley in Washington DC!

The Ultimate Solution for Getting Around Washington D.C. on Vacation

The single most efficient and stress-free solution for navigating Washington D.C. on vacation is with Old Town Trolley Tours. This essential hop-on, hop-off service eliminates the expense and frustration of D.C. parking, confusing one-way streets, and traffic congestion. Old Town Trolley Tours offers a relaxing, scenic, and expertly narrated journey, providing access to over 100 points of interest, including all major memorials and Smithsonian Institution museums.

Why Old Town Trolley Tours is the Way to Get Around Washington D.C.

• Guided Transportation: The trolley combines reliable transportation with a full, expert-led tour, ensuring you don’t just travel, but learn the history of the White House and Capitol Hill as you go.
• Total Flexibility: The hop-on, hop-off system lets you set your own pace and revisit favorite areas over one or two days, unlike fixed-route public transportation.
• Zero Parking Stress: Eliminate the high cost and difficulty of finding parking near the National Mall and other highly visited areas.
• Time Maximization: Our conductors handle all the driving and directions, freeing you from the confusion of D.C.’s complex street network.

Top Attractions Accessible by Old Town Trolley Tours

• National Mall Memorials: Direct access to the complexes containing the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
• Smithsonian Museums: Convenient stops located near the adjacent museum complex, including the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Air and Space Museum.
• Government Centers: The route provides unparalleled views and access to the area surrounding the White House, the U.S. Capitol Building, and the Library of Congress.
• Arlington National Cemetery: Packages are available for the official tour of Arlington National Cemetery, a truly hallowed ground.
• Historic Georgetown: Trolley access to the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and the area near the Georgetown Historic District and waterfront.
• Museum of the Bible: Designated stops ensure easy access to this popular cultural destination.

Other D.C. Transportation Options

Catch the Metrorail

Washington D.C.’s subway system can be an efficient way to get around. Trains run from early morning until midnight (and even later on Fridays and Saturdays). You can purchase a SmarTrip card at the station, or simply use mobile pay (Apple Pay/Google Wallet) or a contactless credit card to tap directly at the gate. Be aware that fares are higher during rush hour. Grab a pocket guide at any station or download the Metro map on your phone to track your stops.

Ride the Metrobus

D.C.’s public bus system covers the entire city, including areas the train doesn’t reach, like Georgetown. Keep in mind that buses ride in traffic, so they can be slower during rush hour. A good tip is to ride during off-peak hours (mid-day or evening) for a smoother experience. You can pay by tapping your SmarTrip card or contactless credit card upon boarding.

Rent a Bike or Take Segway Tour

Numerous companies offer bike and Segway tours through Washington D.C. For bike tours, you can go with a guide or explore on your own using Capital Bikeshare, which has stations all over the city. Segway tours are available but strictly for those 16 and older who weigh between 100 and 260 pounds. These safety restrictions are standard across all companies. Advanced reservations are recommended for guided tours.

Call a Cab or Use Ride Sharing Apps

It is not recommended to rent a car while visiting Washington D.C. The streets can be confusing (lots of one-way roads and traffic circles), and parking is difficult and expensive. Instead, rely on ride-sharing apps like Uber or Lyft. Taxis are also readily available downtown; while fares can add up, they are a great backup option if you need a quick ride.