Washington DC Day Trip: Memorials, Capitol & White House Tour

Summary

Witness lincoln’s chair, walk memorial walls, pause by the white house

You’ll stand before Lincoln’s statue, trace names on war memorial walls, snap photos outside the White House and Capitol, and hear stories from your local guide as Washington DC unfolds around you. There’s space for your own quiet moments too—plus lunch breaks and easy pickup from Williamsburg.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I remember is our guide cracking a joke about coffee as we shuffled onto the bus in Williamsburg — honestly, I needed it. By the time we hit DC, the city felt bigger than I’d pictured. Arlington Cemetery was quiet except for birds and that distant hum of traffic you can’t quite escape here. Our guide, Marcus (who seemed to know every odd bit of trivia), pointed out JFK’s grave and told us about the eternal flame. The air smelled faintly of cut grass and something sweet from a food cart nearby.

Standing in front of Lincoln at the memorial, you just sort of stop talking for a second. His face is so still — it’s hard not to feel small. We traced our hands along the cool stone at the Vietnam War Memorial; someone had left flowers tucked under a name. I didn’t expect to get choked up but there it was. The Korean War statues looked like they might start moving any second — rain had left beads on their helmets, which made them seem even more real.

We did quick photo stops at the White House and US Capitol (Marcus warned us about “DC parking luck,” which apparently means don’t count on it). Lunch was free time — I wandered off for a chili dog and people-watched near Ford’s Theatre. There’s something surreal about eating street food where history happened. Later, at the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Marcus read out part of FDR’s speech and you could hear water running in those fountains behind him. It stuck with me.

I keep thinking about how each spot in Washington DC isn’t just a monument but a story someone once lived through — or died for. We got back late, headlights flickering on sleepy faces. If you’re looking for a day trip from Williamsburg that actually gives you moments to feel things (not just tick boxes), this one does it — even if your feet are tired by the end.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Washington DC full-day sightseeing

• Depart with breakfast stop
• Visit Arlington Cemetery
• See Lincoln Memorial and nearby war memorials
• Learn history at Ford's Theatre
• Visit Roosevelt and Dr. King Memorials
• Driving tour with White House photo stop
• Photo stop at U.S. Capitol
• Enjoy free afternoon for lunch
• Meet and depart with possible bonus stop
• Return to Williamsburg by evening

Top questions

How long is the day trip from Williamsburg to Washington DC?

The tour departs around 9am and returns between 8-10pm.

Is hotel pickup included on this Washington DC day trip?

The tour includes pickup from Williamsburg; check details when booking.

What main attractions are visited during this DC tour?

You’ll see Arlington Cemetery, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam & Korean War Memorials, FDR Memorial, Dr. King Memorial, Ford's Theatre, White House & US Capitol.

Is lunch included in the tour price?

No set lunch is included; there is free time for lunch at your own expense.

Is this Washington DC tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes, transportation and all areas visited are wheelchair accessible.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes—infants can ride on an adult’s lap or in a stroller/pram.

Will there be free time during the day trip?

You’ll have about two hours of free time in the afternoon for lunch or exploring.

What’s included

Your day includes round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle with pickup from Williamsburg, guided visits to major Washington DC memorials and landmarks like Lincoln Memorial and the White House, plus plenty of time for photos and personal exploration before heading back in the evening.