How to plan your Private Tour of the National Mall and the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC

Washington DC is a stunning city with so much to see and do. If you’re short on time but want to experience some of DC’s best sights, a private tour of the National Mall and the National Gallery of Art is a great way to pack in a ton of history, culture, and art in just five and a half hours. Here’s how to plan your tour.

Step 1: Choose Your Tour Company

There are several companies offering private tours of the National Mall and the National Gallery of Art, but one that comes highly recommended is Viator. Viator’s tours are led by expert guides who are passionate about history, culture, and art. Additionally, Viator’s private tours are customizable, meaning you can work with your guide to tailor the tour to your interests.

Step 2: Book Your Tour

To book your tour with Viator, simply visit their website and select the “Private Tour of the National Mall and the National Gallery of Art” option. The tour price does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, but Viator recommends using UBER or a taxi. Additionally, the tour price does not include gratuities, which are optional.

Step 3: Prepare for Your Tour

Before your tour, be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and wear comfortable walking shoes. You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so it’s important to be comfortable. Bring a bottle of water and a snack, as the tour includes a lunch break but you may get hungry during the five and a half hours.

Step 4: Experience the Tour

Your tour will begin at the Lincoln Memorial, where you’ll learn about the history of this iconic monument and take in stunning views of the National Mall. From there, you’ll visit the Washington Monument, the National WWII Memorial, the White House, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Your guide will provide informative commentary about each site and answer any questions you may have. Afterward, you’ll head to the National Gallery of Art, where you’ll see stunning works of art from artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, Edgar Degas, and Picasso. Your guide will provide a guided tour of the museum and share insights about the art and the artists. Finally, your tour will end with a lunch break before you head back to your hotel to reflect on your amazing experience.

Step 5: Review Your Tour

After your tour, be sure to leave a review for Viator and your guide. Reviews help other travelers make informed decisions about their tours and give feedback to the tour company about what they’re doing well and what they can improve on.In conclusion, a private tour of the National Mall and the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC is a fantastic way to experience the best that the city has to offer in a short amount of time. Use these steps to plan your tour and have an unforgettable experience. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions about Washington D.C.

If you’re planning a trip to Washington D.C., you have a lot of questions. With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming for first-time visitors. In this post, we’ll answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Washington D.C. to help you plan your trip with ease.

1. What is Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. is the capital of the United States. It was founded in 1790 and is named after George Washington, the first President of the United States. It is not part of any state but is a federal district that is governed by the U.S. Congress.

2. What are some popular tourist attractions in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. is home to many of the country’s most famous landmarks and tourist attractions. Some popular sites to visit include:

The White House

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. Visitors can take a tour of the White House, although it needs to be arranged in advance through a Member of Congress.

The National Mall

The National Mall is a large open area that contains many of the city’s monuments and museums. Some of the most iconic monuments include the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Jefferson Memorial.

Smithsonian Museums

There are 17 Smithsonian Museums in Washington D.C. that cover a range of topics, from American history to art and culture. The most popular museums are the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of Natural History.

3. How do I get around in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C.’s public transport includes buses, trains, and a metro system called the Washington Metro. The Metro is one of the most convenient ways to get around the city. Additionally, many of the popular tourist attractions in Washington D.C. are located close to each other on the National Mall, so they can be easily reached on foot.

4. What is the best time of year to visit Washington D.C.?

The best time to visit Washington D.C. is during the spring and fall months. The weather is mild, and the city is not as crowded as during the summer months. However, if you’re planning a trip to see the cherry blossoms, visit during late March or early April. During this time, the city is in bloom with beautiful pink flowers.

5. What is the food like in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. has a diverse food scene, with many different cuisines available. Some local specialties can be found in various neighborhoods throughout the city, such as Ben’s Chili Bowl in U Street or Old Ebbitt Grill near the White House. Additionally, the city has a wide selection of fine dining restaurants, and some of the best chefs in the country have restaurants in Washington D.C.

6. What is the cost of living like in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. is a relatively expensive city, especially when it comes to housing costs. However, other expenses such as food and transportation are relatively reasonable. It is important to keep in mind that some areas of the city are more expensive than others, so the cost of living can vary depending on where you stay.

7. What is the nightlife like in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. has a thriving nightlife scene, with many bars and clubs located throughout the city. Some of the most popular nightlife areas include Adams Morgan, U Street and H Street. Additionally, live music venues such as the 9:30 Club and The Anthem feature regular concerts with well-known artists.

8. Is Washington D.C. safe?

Like any major city, Washington D.C. has its share of crime, particularly in certain neighborhoods. However, many areas of the city are generally safe, especially during the daytime. Visitors are advised to take normal safety precautions such as staying aware of their surroundings and not leaving valuables visible in their car.

9. Are there any free things to do in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. has many free things to do, including visiting the National Mall and many of the Smithsonian museums. Additionally, during the summer months, the city offers free outdoor movie screenings and concerts in various parks around the city.

10. Is it necessary to rent a car when visiting Washington D.C.?

Renting a car in Washington D.C. is not necessary, especially if you plan on staying in the city itself. The Metro is a convenient way to get around Washington D.C., and many popular tourist attractions are within walking distance of each other.

In Summary

Washington D.C. has a lot to offer visitors, from its famous landmarks to its diverse food scene. When planning your trip, be sure to book accommodations in a safe area, consider using public transportation, and take advantage of the many free things to do in the city. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nightlife, Washington D.C. has something for everyone.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Washington D.C.

Washington D.C. is the capital of the United States of America and a popular destination for tourists. The city is brimming with history, culture, and monuments, and there is no shortage of activities to keep you entertained. If you are planning a visit to Washington D.C., you would want to make the most of your trip. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to spend your time as a tourist in Washington D.C.

1. Visit the National Mall

The National Mall is a 2-mile long, open park that is home to most of the iconic buildings, memorials, and museums in Washington D.C. Some of the attractions you can visit in the National Mall include:

(a) The Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is a symbol of American freedom and stands as a tribute to the 16th President of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. The monument contains a larger-than-life statue of Lincoln, as well as inscriptions of his most famous speeches.

(b) The Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is a tall, marble obelisk that honors the first President of the United States, George Washington. Visitors can climb to the top of the monument for a beautiful view of the city.

(c) The National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History is home to more than 3 million artifacts that tell the story of the United States. Some of the most popular exhibits include the original American flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write “The Star-Spangled Banner” and the First Ladies’ Inaugural Gowns.

2. Visit the Smithsonian Museums

Washington D.C. is home to the world’s largest museum complex, the Smithsonian Institution. The Smithsonian Museums are free to the public and perfect for history buffs and families. Some of the museums you can visit include:

(a) National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is home to the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world. Visitors can see the Wright Brothers’ plane, the Spirit of St. Louis, and the Apollo 11 command module up close.

(b) National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History boasts more than 126 million specimens, including one of the world’s largest collections of dinosaur fossils. Visitors can also see the famous Hope Diamond and the Butterfly Pavilion.

(c) National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is dedicated to the African American experience in the United States. Exhibits cover everything from the history of slavery to the accomplishments of contemporary African Americans.

3. Take a Tour of the White House

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States and is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. Tours of the White House are free, but they must be scheduled in advance through your congressional representative’s office. Tours are available Tuesday through Saturday from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.

4. Go on a Monument Tour

In addition to the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, Washington D.C. is home to many other impressive monuments and memorials. Some of the most popular monuments include:

(a) Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a somber tribute to the men and women who served in the Vietnam War. The memorial consists of two black granite walls that are inscribed with the names of more than 58,000 American soldiers who lost their lives in the war.

(b) Jefferson Memorial

The Jefferson Memorial is dedicated to the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson. The memorial features a bronze statue of Jefferson and quotes from some of his most famous speeches.

(c) Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial is a tribute to the 32nd President of the United States. The memorial consists of four outdoor rooms that represent each of Roosevelt’s terms in office and contains sculptures, water features, and famous quotes from the President.

5. Explore the Neighborhoods

Washington D.C. is home to many unique and vibrant neighborhoods that are worth exploring. Some of the most popular neighborhoods include:

(a) Georgetown

Georgetown is known for its charming brick sidewalks and historic homes. The area is also home to many upscale shops and restaurants.

(b) Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan is a diverse and eclectic neighborhood that is popular with young professionals. The area is home to many trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants.

(c) Dupont Circle

Dupont Circle is known for its charming architecture and vibrant nightlife. The area is home to many art galleries, bookstores, and restaurants.

In Conclusion

Washington D.C. is a tourist’s dream destination, with a wealth of history, culture, and attractions to explore. From the iconic buildings and memorials on the National Mall to the eclectic neighborhoods and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in the nation’s capital. Use this guide to plan your visit and make the most of your time in Washington D.C.