Hop-On Hop-Off Washington DC with Big Bus Tours

Where can I start the tour?

You can join the tour from any stop. The first stop is at Union Station located at 50 Massachusetts Ave NE.

Which days does the tour operate?

Tours operate daily, excluding Christmas Day. Occasionally, regular services may be affected by roadworks, city events, poor weather and other unpredictable circumstances. Please download the Big Bus App for updates.

What time do tours start and and how often do buses run?

First bus on the Red Loops starts at 9:30am. Last bus and last full-circuit tour is at 5:30pm. Full-circuit tour duration is approximately 90 minutes. The bus runs every 15-20 minutes. Please note that tour times are subject to traffic, weather and other events.

Do I need to specify a date of travel?

Yes – they'll ask you to select the date you’d like to hop on the bus. If you’re touring with them for more than one day, your ticket must be used across consecutive days, and the date you select at time of booking should be the first day of your tour. Some tours also require you to select a time of travel, to guarantee your seat.

How will I know where to get off?

The live guides and pre-recorded commentary will communicate upcoming stops.

Is there pre-recorded commentary available in my language?

Tours offer a pre-recorded commentary, broadcast via complimentary headphones. The audio guide is currently available in English, Brazilian Portuguese, French, German and Spanish.

What is the child ticketing policy?

Child tickets are available for children aged between 3 and 12 years. Children aged 2 years and under may travel free of charge. Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by an adult. Strollers and pushchairs must be folded and stowed on the lower deck.

I am waiting at a stop and can’t see any buses, what do I do?

Hang in there! BIG cities like to throw all sorts of challenges at their drivers, who are doing their best to get to you as quickly (but safely) as possible.

Are accommodations available for persons with disabilities?

Yes, they operate wheelchair accessible vehicles with lifts that can accommodate a weight up to 650 pounds. Please be advised that their entire fleet in Washington DC is not wheelchair accessible. If you or your travelling partner(s) requires an ADA accessible vehicle, please contact the number on your e-ticket 48 hours prior to your planned tour commencement. They can then arrange for a suitable vehicle to be available at the time and location required. If you require a different accommodation, please also contact the number on your e-ticket 48 hours prior to your planned tour commencement so they can make arrangements for an accommodation. Please also note that passengers with mobility impairments may not be able to access the upper deck on their buses. They cannot guarantee the accessibility of the various attractions along the tour.

What is the policy on bringing pets?

No pets are allowed on board the bus, except ADA service animals.

Can I bring food and drink on the tour?

No food or alcohol is permitted on board the bus. Please feel welcome to bring non-alcoholic drinks in screw-top bottles.

Is luggage allowed on board the bus?

No, luggage is not permitted on board the bus at this time.