When cold days make you want something warm, but still magical and festive, Tea Around Town DC lets you do both: sip warm tea and see the capital all from a cozy floral-decorated double-decker bus. This experience blends a guided tour of DC’s major sights with an afternoon tea service, making it a charming winter activity for families or couples looking to warm up and explore in style.
Guests board at 790 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, between 7th and 9th streets, and over the course of about 90 minutes enjoy a selection of three premium teas, paired with savory bites, sweets and freshly baked scones. While you sip, a live guide narrates the route, pointing out landmarks like the White House, Lincoln Memorial and more. Listen closely as guides occasionally break into musical performances too.
Why it shines in winter
Winter sightseeing in DC can feel rushed — museum hopping or walking in cold wind takes energy and usually means covering less space in more time. Tea Around Town offers a warm, stationary vantage: the bus is temperature controlled, so you can appreciate the monuments and holiday decor through windows while wrapping your hands around a to-go tumbler of hot tea. The floral decor, soft lighting and theatrical touches — like seasonal teas and live music — transform a simple ride into a cozy, elevated escape from winter’s chill.
In reviews, many riders call it “a tea party on wheels.” The Washington Post describes it as part sightseeing, part performance, emphasizing its Instagram-worthy look, lively staff and immersive atmosphere.
What families can expect
- Tea Around Town is accessible and welcoming for all ages. The bus is stroller- and wheelchair-friendly (with advance notice).
- The tour includes small bites, savory and sweet, along with the three teas. Expect a mix of flavors, though it’s often described as more ambiance than formal dining.
- Tours typically run daily; times are posted via the Top View Booking app.
What guests are saying
“The staff was great, especially Andrew with the long hair. lol was so fun!” shares M. M. on the Tea Around Town website.
“What an amazing adventure! This experience was absolutely wonderful — everyone should try to go at least once! I’m already ready to go again. From the teas to the delicious food (I’ll take all the blueberry scones, please — OMG, they were incredible!), everything was perfect,” says Gloria Perry on Google Reviews.
“The tour guide was wonderful, and the tea experts were knowledgeable. The place is beautifully decorated. I would definitely recommend it—I had a fantastic time!” says G. W on the Tea Around Town website.
“My husband and I had an amazing time experiencing tea around DC! It was such a fun way to see the city, and I was able to capture some beautiful shots along the way. The food was delicious—perfectly portioned—and paired wonderfully with the wide variety of teas we got to sample,” shares Taylor Parks on Google Reviews.
Basic info to plan your visit
- Address: 790 Pennsylvania Ave. NW, Washington, DC
- Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Monday–Thursday; 8 a.m.-10 p.m. Friday–Saturday; 8 a.m.9 p.m. Sunday
- Phone: (212) 664-0300
When winter pushes you indoors, Tea Around Town DC offers a delightful way to keep exploring without stepping into icy wind. It’s a great way to see all the sites adorned in holiday decor around the city while keeping warm, making it one of DC’s most whimsical offbeat outings.
