Potomac River Attractions & Things to do

Explore Washington DC’s top landmarks and monuments on a 6-hour tour by deluxe touring coach with full narration from an expert guide. Stop at the White House, Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, US Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, and more. See 100+ sites with time to walk around 10+ of them with your guide, who shares the history and little-known facts about the nation’s capitol. Your guide will take you on an exclusive boat ride along the Potomac River from historic Georgetown while boat is operating. When the boat is not operating you will visit Jefferson and Eisenhower Memorials instead.

Top Sites:
• The Capitol Building
• Martin Luther King Memorial
• World War II Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• The White House
• FDR Memorial
• Vietnam War Memorial
• Korean War Memorial
• Air Force Memorial
• Iwo Jima Memorial
• Potomac River Cruise
• Jefferson Memorial (low season only, when Potomac cruise not operating)
• Eisenhower Memorial (low season only, when Potomac cruise not operating)
Duration: 6 hours.

Step back in time and walk in the footsteps of America’s first president on this fully guided tour through Mount Vernon. Get the VIP treatment on a scenic river cruise down the Potomac River, soaking up some of DC's most iconic sights along the way. After landing at Mount Vernon, you’ll be led through the former home of George Washington on a comprehensive tour of the estate and grounds, gaining an insight into one of the most defining chapters of the nation’s history. This day trip with lunch and roundtrip transport included is the perfect way to experience an iconic American locale with all logistics handled for you.
Duration: 6 hours 45 minutes.

RSN Tour was founded in the Washington, D.C. area with the premise that making touring plans should be easy and exciting. Our Washington, D.C. VIP Private Tours are conducted with a luxurious Black Suburban, Black Ford Transit Executive Van or a Black Mercedes Benz Sprinter Van they are climate controlled and offers high quality safety, comfort and a fantastic touring experience.
Duration: 4 to 5 hours.

Experience Washington, D.C. landmarks from a whole new perspective. A dinner cruise in Washington, D.C. does just that. Enjoy an upscale dinner cruise on the Potomac as you drift past iconic views like the Jefferson Memorial, Georgetown waterfront, and Lincoln Memorial.

Includes
2.5-hour or 3-hour dinner cruise on the Potomac River
3-course plated dinner with attentive tableside service
The most breathtaking views of the nation's greatest landmarks including the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial
Onboard entertainment with DJ music
Best dinner cruise in Washington, D.C.
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
Duration: 3 hours.

Experience the grandeur and history of Washington DC with our exclusive 4-hour private luxury tour. Tailored for those who appreciate the finer things in life, this tour combines comfort, elegance, and convenience, allowing you to explore the capital's iconic landmarks from the plush comfort of a high-end vehicle.

As you glide between the majestic U.S. Capitol, the storied White House, and the poignant war memorials, you'll be immersed in the rich tapestry of American history. Each stop is not just a visit but an experience, enriched with stories and insights provided by your knowledgeable personal guide. The intimate setting of a private tour means you can enjoy each site at your own pace, with ample time for reflection and photography.

Forget the hassle of crowded group tours. Enjoy the exclusivity of a personal driver, direct hotel pickup, and drop-off.
Duration: 1 to 4 hours.

Spend an afternoon gaining a unique insight into U.S. history by land and water! First, take a guided cruise along the Potomac River where you’ll pass by some of DC’s best-loved sites and memorials, such as Reagan International Airport, the Washington Monument, the Kennedy Center, and the Watergate. Then, visit the historic neighborhood of Georgetown with a local guide. See the area's most storied spots to get a true overview of its integral connection to the story of the United States and stop at an award-winning local bakery for a delicious treat to sweeten your experience even more.
Duration: 2 hours 45 minutes.

See many of Washington, DC's most popular sites on this guided sightseeing cart shuttle tour. Discover the major points of interest and attractions in DC during the bustling daytime hours. Visit the Potomac River waterfront, the National Mall, and the magnificent monuments and memorials throughout the city. See the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and many more. DC hotel pickup and drop-off included from the Hamilton Hotel. Drop-off at the White House or the Hamilton Hotel.
Duration: 2 hours.

Escape busy Washington, D.C. for an afternoon and enjoy a historic journey to Alexandria’s Old Town. With convenient transportation and a knowledgeable guide, this tour makes it easy to experience one of America’s best-preserved colonial towns. After a scenic boat trip down the Potomac to Old Town Alexandria, you'll disembark to begin your journey through hundreds of years of American history. Step inside the storied Gadsby’s Tavern, where Washington and Jefferson once dined; explore the elegant Carlyle House, a social center in colonial times; pause for a snack at a local bakery; continue your journey in Washington's footsteps at his parish, Christ Church Alexandria, where Washington himself prayed—and so much more. You'll even glide down King Street on a vintage trolley and enjoy free time to explore this quaint town’s art galleries, shops, and cafes before you hop back on the boat for a relaxing return cruise to D.C.
Duration: 5 hours.

Celebrate a special occasion, host a group event or have a fun date night aboard a dinner cruise along the Potomac River. Great for parties of all sizes, this cruise gives you the chance to dine, dance, and experience Washington, D.C. from a new perspective - the water!

Includes
2.5-hour cruise on the Potomac River
Delicious dinner buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts
The best views of the Washington Monument, National Harbor, Old Town Alexandria, and other iconic D.C. sights
Onboard entertainment with DJ music
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea

Duration: 3 hours.

Explore Washington DC’s top landmarks and monuments on a 6-hour tour by deluxe touring coach with full narration from an expert guide. Stop at the White House, Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, US Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, and more. See 30+ sites with time to walk around about 10 of them with your guide, who shares the history and little-known facts about the nation’s capitol. Your guide will take you on an exclusive boat ride along the Potomac River from historic Georgetown from March/April 1st-Mid October. When the boat is operating, you will be taken to Georgetown Washington Harbor to purchase lunch at any of the several restaurants. When the boat is not operating, you will go to Pentagon City Mall for lunch.

Top Sites:
• The Capitol Building
• Martin Luther King Memorial
• World War II Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• The White House
• FDR Memorial
• Vietnam War Memorial
• Korean War Memorial
• Air Force Memorial
• Iwo Jima Memorial
• Potomac River Cruise
Duration: 6 hours.

Explore the best of Washington, DC with a guided, 6-hour bus tour which involves walking at the city's top sites. This exciting tour includes a seasonal 45 minutes river cruise out of Georgetown. Enjoy photo stops at the White House and the US Capitol building, plus guided tours of many of the famous monuments, including the Lincoln Memorial. Lunch (at guest's own expense) is either at DC Wharf(October 11 through April 17) or the Washington Harbor area of Georgetown (April 18 through October 10).
Duration: 6 hours.

With the sunshine reflecting off the Potomac River, there’s no better place to enjoy an afternoon in Washington, D.C. than aboard a City Cruises lunch cruise. Treat yourself to an onboard historical tour of some of the most iconic landmarks in the country like Old Town Alexandria, the National Harbor, and the Washington Monument, as you sample creative dishes from our lunch buffet menu.

2-hour cruise on the Potomac River
Delicious lunch buffet with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts
The best views of the Washington Monument and other iconic Washington, D.C. sights
Onboard entertainment with DJ music
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
Duration: 2 hours.

Our water taxi service offers routes connecting The Wharf to Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor. View the schedule to see departure times at your nearest location. Enjoy the ride along the Potomac River.

Our boats are ADA compliant but please note that the Georgetown Dock is not.

Departures begin at the Wharf at 11:45am and will depart every 30 minutes to one hour depending on the day of the week. To view the water taxi schedule select your desired date, departure and destination location. Departures out of National Harbor and Alexandria vary.

Duration: 35 minutes.

Ring in 2024 on the water and countdown to midnight with an unforgettable Washington, DC New Year’s Eve Fireworks Premier Dinner. Whether for a romantic date night or a special celebration with friends and family, celebrate the new year in style on the Potomac River with a 3-course, plated dinner freshly prepared by our chef, City Cruises’ distinctive hospitality, and full bar service. While onboard, guests will enjoy exceptional views of Washington, DC’s iconic landmarks, dining and dancing, a sparkling wine toast, fireworks, DJ entertainment, and festive décor. Happy New Year!
Duration: 4 hours.

On this independent bike tour from Old Town Alexandria, enjoy views of the Potomac River as you cycle along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail to historic Mount Vernon Estate, George Washington’s famous 18th-century home. Explore the stately mansion, gorgeous gardens and fascinating educational exhibits at your leisure, and hop back on your bike for your return trip or upgrade to relax on a narrated Potomac River cruise back to Alexandria. (If you choose to return by boat, you must select this option at the time of booking) This is a fun, active and scenic way to experience Mount Vernon.

We recommend guests to come between 8am-9:30am to our store location. The boats leave from Mount Vernon at 1:30PM and returns to Washington DC!
Duration: 4 to 7 hours.

Established fifty years before the Capital, Georgetown began as a gritty port city on the banks of the Potomac River, described by Abigail Adams as a "dirty little hole". Despite its modest start, Georgetown is now home to palatial mansions, elegant cemeteries, stately churches, and a world-class University. We'll explore the highlights and secrets of DC's most exclusive neighborhood, discussing architecture, history, scandal, and more. By the end of the tour, we'll see Georgetown's full transformation in this rags to riches tale.

Book directly via DC Design Tours for the best experience and price!
Duration: 2 hours.

See many of Washington, DC's most popular sites on this guided sightseeing cart shuttle tour. Discover the major points of interest and attractions in DC during the bustling daytime hours. Visit the Potomac River waterfront, the National Mall, and the magnificent monuments and memorials throughout the city. See the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and many more. DC hotel pickup and drop-off included from the Hamilton Hotel. Drop-off at the White House or the Hamilton Hotel.
Duration: 2 hours.

Experience the epitome of luxury cruising on the Potomac River aboard our beautiful and spacious 460 Sea Ray yacht. From the moment you step on board, you'll be enveloped in comfort and sophistication. A sophisticated sound system, compatible with Bluetooth, sets the soundtrack to your adventure, while below deck, a world of convenience awaits. From a fully-equipped kitchen to a well-appointed bathroom, we've taken care of every detail so you can focus on enjoying the journey.

Departing from Georgetown Waterfront, our yacht offers unrivaled views of Washington DC's iconic monuments as you cruise the serene Potomac River.

Whether you choose to cruise leisurely or make a stop to drop anchor for some swimming, the choice is yours. Our yacht charters offer the perfect setting for a relaxing day of cruising or celebrating special events with friends and family.
Duration: 3 hours.

Experience the monumental United States capital with the Washington D.C. Sightseeing Flex Pass. Select between a 1, 2, or 4 attractions pass, and take advantage of renowned destinations and city-wide tours; the Sightseeing Pass is your Bill of Sights to save up to 60% total visitation costs in D.C.

Steal a moment in America’s storied history and admire the visionary architecture as you pass by the United States Capitol Building, the scenic National Mall, the White House, the Smithsonian Institution, the Library of Congress, and the Washington National Cathedral. All Washington D.C. Sightseeing Pass holders receive 1-Day access to the Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus, making camera-worthy moments a snap!
Duration: 30 days.

Stand in awe of the iconic landscape of D.C. with the easy-to-use Washington D.C. Sightseeing Day Pass. Choose between 1, 2, or 3 days, and save up to 60% on admission prices at 15 of the capital’s authentic prime experiences. A perfect choice for first time visitors excited to see everything, and the more you see the more you save.
From the top of the Big Bus Hop-On/Hop-Off Tour, pass by the Capitol Building and National Mall, the White House, the Smithsonian Institution, and the Library of Congress.
Take advantage of D.C.’s immersive nature with a walking or biking tour: see The Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. Pay homage to those who gave their service and lives at the National World War II Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Duration: 1 to 3 days.

Ahoy there, me hearties! We are friendly pirates protecting the Nation’s Capital from any boisterous buccaneers that might get too close. We house the city’s most valued treasure on board our ship, but recently the keys to our treasure chest were stolen by a greedy crewmate! We need your help as we search the waterways looking for the scallywag who stole the keys to our precious loot.

Our Grog House will be open during the cruise featuring sodas, juices, cocktails, beer, seltzers, wine, pre-packaged snacks, and pirate loot like swords and hats. Credit cards are accepted, and we offer free water. Guests must be 21yrs+ with valid ID to purchase alcoholic beverages during the cruise.
Duration: 1 hour.

Our Signature Washington D.C Father’s Day Brunch Cruise is the perfect way to gather for an unforgettable celebration. Create memories with your family as you dine and dance on the Potomac River with magnificent skyline views for a casual afternoon out with the whole family. Washington D.C’s spectacular views are even more impressive from the water while you enjoy a delicious, chef-prepared buffet. You’ll marvel at famed city landmarks, such as Old Town Alexandria, and the National Harbor, from our cozy, climate-controlled interior, and open-air roof decks. We keep the spirits flowing with a fully stocked bar, games, and lively music from our DJ. Join us for a memorable, one-of-a-kind Father’s Day celebration.

Includes
2-hour brunch cruise on the Potomac River
Delicious buffet brunch with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts
Unlimited mimosas (must be 21 or older with valid ID)
Spectacular views of the city's architecture and local landmarks
Live DJ entertainment
Duration: 2 hours.

Discover the grandeur and history of Washington DC with our exclusive, personalized half-day tour. Perfect for those who appreciate luxury and comfort, this tour accommodates up to 14 guests in a high-end sprinter van, offering a seamless journey through iconic landmarks like the U.S. Capitol, the White House, and the poignant war memorials. Ideal for both history buffs and travelers seeking a private, reflective experience, our tour provides insider knowledge and ample opportunities for memorable encounters with America's storied past. Enjoy the convenience of direct hotel pickup and drop-off, and savor each moment without the rush of crowded group tours.
Duration: 1 to 4 hours.

Embark on a Premier Washington D.C Father’s Day Brunch Cruise for an elegant afternoon with family on the Potomac River. Create lifelong memories together as you indulge in delicious cocktails, plated, chef-prepared menus, and top-notch service. Our DJ sets the mood while you soak in Washington D.C skyline from an intimate, climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. You’ll delight in exclusive views of Washington D.C’s awe-inspiring sights, like Old Town Alexandria and the National Harbor. This is a Father’s Day experience that will be long treasured.

Includes
2-hour brunch cruise on the Potomac River
Delicious buffet brunch with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts
Unlimited mimosas (must be 21 or older with valid ID)
Spectacular views of the city's architecture and local landmarks
Live DJ entertainment
Guaranteed table for your party size
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
Duration: 2 hours.

Embark on a Premier Washington D.C Father’s Day Dinner Cruise for an elegant evening with family on the Potomac River. Create lifelong memories together as you indulge in delicious cocktails, plated, chef-prepared menus, and top-notch service. Our DJ sets the mood while you soak in the Washington D.C's skyline from an intimate, climate-controlled interior and open-air rooftop decks. You’ll delight in exclusive views of Washington D.C's awe-inspiring sights, like Old Town Alexandria and the National Harbor. This is a Father’s Day experience that will be long treasured.

Includes
2.5 hour dinner cruise on the Potomac River
Delicious buffet dinner with freshly prepared entrees, salads and desserts
Unlimited coffee, hot tea, iced tea and water
Spectacular views of the city's architecture and local landmarks
Live DJ entertainment
Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes.