Tidal Basin Tours

Tidal Basin featuring an administrative buidling, heritage architecture and a lake or waterhole
Tidal Basin showing a sunset, a monument and a lake or waterhole
Tidal Basin showing a lake or waterhole and heritage architecture
Tidal Basin featuring a monument, a lake or waterhole and a park
Tidal Basin showing fall colors and a lake or waterhole


Embellished by the pink hues of cherry blossoms in spring, this scenic reservoir is surrounded by memorials to important figures in the development of the nation.

See some of the most iconic landmarks in politics when you visit the Tidal Basin, an artificial reservoir running adjacent to the Potomac River. This picturesque inlet covers 107 acres (43 acres), just a short walk from the White House. Rent bicycles from the bike-share stations and cycle along the shore.

Bring your kids out into the middle of the reservoir on a rental pedal boat or swan boat. From this central viewpoint, check out the impressive structures surrounding the water. Admire the imposing pediment and columns of the domed Thomas Jefferson Memorial, where you can sit on its tall set of steps and reflect on the state of politics today.

The George Mason Memorial pays tribute to one of the Founding Fathers. It features a sculpture of the man on a bench by a pond.

As you walk west along the southern shore, you’ll pass large green fields with ballparks. Step into the woods and spot the Japanese Pagoda and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. The latter has a wall showcasing some of the 32nd president’s quotes.

As you continue around the reservoir, you’ll reach the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Marvel at the large white sculpture of the civil rights leader, his arms crossed in apparent defiance.

The reservoir is particularly scenic during the National Cherry Blossom Festival in spring. Dominating the shores of the lake, the light pink blossoms were initially a gift from the mayor of Tokyo in 1912. Watch helium balloons, floats and bands that celebrate the festival.

The Tidal Basin stands between the Potomac River and the National Mall in the heart of Washington D.C. Travel on the Blue, Orange or Silver line of the metro and get off at the Smithsonian stop, before walking west for about 10 minutes to reach the water.

While you’re in the area, stop at other nearby landmarks such as the International Spy Museum, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool.

Plan a trip to see Tidal Basin

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Historic Inns of Annapolis
Kellogg Conference Hotel at Gallaudet University
Hyatt House Washington DC / Downtown / Convention Center

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Best Lodging Options Near Tidal Basin

Washington Plaza Hotel

Washington Plaza Hotel

4 out of 5
10 Thomas Circle NW, Washington, DC
Washington Plaza Hotel
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC

Hamilton Hotel Washington DC

4 out of 5
1001 14th St NW, Washington, DC
Hamilton Hotel Washington DC
State Plaza Hotel

State Plaza Hotel

3.5 out of 5
2116 E Street NW, Washington, DC
State Plaza Hotel
Salamander Washington DC

Salamander Washington DC

5 out of 5
1330 Maryland Ave, SW, Washington, DC
Salamander Washington DC
citizenM Washington DC Capitol

citizenM Washington DC Capitol

4 out of 5
550 School St SW, Washington, DC
citizenM Washington DC Capitol
Hotel Lombardy

Hotel Lombardy

4 out of 5
2019 Pennsylvania Ave Nw, Washington, DC
Hotel Lombardy
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf

Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf

3.5 out of 5
725 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC
Hyatt House Washington DC/The Wharf
Hotel Washington

Hotel Washington

5 out of 5
515 15th Street, NW, Washington, DC
Hotel Washington
The Henley Park Hotel

The Henley Park Hotel

4 out of 5
926 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington, DC
The Henley Park Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C. is a vibrant destination for tourists, offering a variety of activities such as shopping, theater, and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy sightseeing bus tours that provide a unique perspective of the iconic cherry blossoms and memorials in the area. With its scenic views and cultural attractions, the Tidal Basin is perfect for a memorable day out.

Shopping

For shopping near Tidal Basin, visit CityCenterDC, just 1 mile away, offering a range of family-friendly shops. Union Station Shopping Center is 2 miles away, featuring entertainment options. If you're up for a drive, check out Eastern Market, located 3 miles away, known for its unique goods.

Recreation

Capital One Arena offers a vibrant atmosphere with exciting sports events, perfect for energizing your spirit. Enjoy live music at Birchmere for a delightful entertainment experience. For a touch of luxury, visit Cosmos Club, where you can relax in an elegant setting with exclusive amenities.

Adventure

The Allegheny Passage offers a thrilling hiking experience with beautiful scenery, located 0.8 miles from Tidal Basin. For outdoor enthusiasts, the Pinery Trail invites exploration amidst nature, also 0.8 miles away. The Greenstone Ridge Trail presents another adventurous hiking opportunity with stunning views, situated 0.8 miles from Tidal Basin.

Nightlife

The nightlife around Tidal Basin offers vibrant experiences at venues like the Kennedy Center, The Anthem, and Ford's Theater, all within a mile. Enjoy captivating performances that blend culture and romance, making for an unforgettable evening filled with entertainment and family-friendly vibes.

Find the best attractions near Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin in Washington, D.C., is a hub of cultural and outdoor experiences, featuring notable memorials and museums. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the cherry blossoms, explore the iconic Jefferson Memorial, and enjoy the vibrant art scene nearby. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll or a deeper cultural dive, the Tidal Basin offers a memorable urban experience that captures the essence of the nation's capital.

  • National Mall: A stunning national park located 1 mile from Tidal Basin, the National Mall offers a blend of adventure and picturesque scenery. Walk among iconic monuments, memorials, and lush greenery, making it a perfect spot for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
  • White House: Situated 1 mile from Tidal Basin, the White House is a symbol of American culture and history. As the official residence of the President, it presents a unique opportunity to appreciate its architectural grandeur and the rich stories that surround it.
  • Walter E. Washington Convention Center: Located 2 miles from Tidal Basin, this modern event venue buzzes with business vibes. It hosts a variety of conferences and expos, making it a key hub for professionals and a glimpse into the city's dynamic event scene.

Best time to go to Tidal Basin

The best time to visit Tidal Basin can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Tidal Basin falls in July, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Tidal Basin falls in January, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January35.1°F (1.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
February38.3°F (3.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March45.7°F (7.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighAverage
April56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
May65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHighSlightly High
June74.3°F (23.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
July79.5°F (26.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
August77.4°F (25.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September71.1°F (21.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October59.9°F (15.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
November47.8°F (8.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowAverage
December40.6°F (4.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Tidal Basin

Visiting Tidal Basin can be budget-friendly with several saving tips. Entry is free, and the best time to visit is from December to February when hotel rates are lower. Fridays are the cheapest days to stay, while Tuesdays tend to be pricier. Use Expedia to find the best deals by filtering hotel prices from lowest to highest, and consider booking a package deal for additional savings. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and rewards for future stays, making your trip even more affordable.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Tidal Basin are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to April to June, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Tidal Basin is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Tidal Basin is Tuesday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Tidal Basin hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.