A rollicking, self-guided day from New Stanton to the capital's monuments and Arlington's solemn rows

NEW STANTON SELF-GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE

A rollicking, self-guided day from New Stanton to the capital's monuments and Arlington's solemn rows

Roundtrip motorcoach transport from New Stanton delivers about four hours of independent exploration of Washington, D.C., plus an included Arlington National Cemetery tour—this guide explains what’s included, what to plan for, and how to use your time wisely.

A rollicking, self-guided day from New Stanton to the capital's monuments and Arlington's solemn rows.

Duration
Contact operator
Location
New Stanton
Operator
Carrie's Bus Tours
Category
Self-Guided Tour
Robert Eric Crews
Founder & Editor, The Adventure Collective
Published Verified

Board a deluxe motorcoach in New Stanton and make a one‑day plunge into Washington, D.C.: drop off near the Washington Monument, choose from a dozen-plus free Smithsonian museums and numerous monuments, enjoy roughly four hours on your own to explore or shop, then regroup for a guided visit to Arlington National Cemetery before the return ride.

Highlights

Outing Highlights

THE HISTORY

Arlington National Cemetery tour included

The trip includes a ticket for an Arlington National Cemetery tour, offering a guided look at one of the nation’s most solemn sites as part of a full day of history.

THE CULTURE

Smithsonian museums and monuments at your pace

You’ll be dropped off near the Washington Monument with about four hours to explore free Smithsonian museums and the city’s monuments — plan ahead for any museums that require advance timed tickets.

THE RIDE

Roundtrip deluxe motorcoach with snacks and games

The operator provides roundtrip deluxe motorcoach transportation with snacks, water, driver tip and on‑board games and prizes, plus stops for breakfast on the way out and food options on the return (meals not included).

What the day feels like

How the day unfolds

Depart New Stanton aboard a deluxe motorcoach, pause en route for a hot breakfast stop at Cracker Barrel (meal not included), arrive in Washington, D.C. for a drop off near the Washington Monument and roughly four hours of independent exploration—museums, monuments and shopping—then reconvene to travel to Arlington National Cemetery for the included tour before stopping for an evening bite on the return trip.

Suitability

Who it's for

Who this trip is best for — and who should plan carefully

1
History buffsExcellent match: the included Arlington National Cemetery tour and proximity to Smithsonian museums and national monuments make this day highly rewarding for travelers focused on history.
2
Museum-goersWell suited: multiple free Smithsonian museums are within walking distance of the drop‑off point, though some museums may require advance timed tickets that you should secure beforehand.
3
Shoppers & casual sightseersA good fit: with about four hours of independent time you can mix monument viewing with shopping around the National Mall.
4
Travelers with limited mobilityPlan carefully: the day involves walking in Washington, D.C., and time spent independently; if you have mobility constraints, review transit and accessibility options before booking.

Practical planner

Details to review before reserving

What to Bring

Snacks and bottled water are provided onboard; for getting around DC, bring a SmarTrip® Card if you plan to use Metrorail (purchase at stations or online) and exact change if you use Metrobus. Budget for any meals (breakfast at Cracker Barrel and return‑trip food stops are not included). Also check museum websites for any required timed tickets prior to travel.

Included

Roundtrip deluxe motorcoach transportation, driver tip, onboard snacks/water, games & prizes, and a ticket for the Arlington National Cemetery tour are included with the trip.

Not Included

Meals at Cracker Barrel and other food stops, optional monument tours and any museum timed‑entry fees (where applicable) are not included.

Booking Notice

Review cancellation policies before reserving.

Frequently asked questions

Planning Your Outing

Are Smithsonian museum admissions included?

Most Smithsonian museums are free to enter, but some require advance timed tickets—check the specific museum’s website before the trip to avoid disappointment.

Is the Arlington National Cemetery tour included?

Yes. The trip includes a ticket for the Arlington National Cemetery tour.

How much independent time will I have in Washington, D.C.?

You will have around four hours of free time in Washington, D.C. to visit museums, monuments, and shop at your leisure.

Are meals included in the trip price?

No. Breakfast at Cracker Barrel on the outbound drive and food stops on the return are not included; onboard snacks and water are provided.

How do I get around Washington while on my own?

Washington, D.C. is very walkable; you can also use Metrorail and Metrobus. Metrorail requires a SmarTrip® Card (available at stations or online) and Metrobus requires exact change. Bike rentals, taxis and ride‑shares are alternatives but can be more expensive.

Will the group stop for restroom or comfort breaks?

Yes. There will be scheduled stops en route (including a breakfast stop on the outbound drive) and at least one additional comfort stop on the return trip.