Washington, DC Tourism Helps Visitors Book Hotels and Plan Travel for the 60th Inauguration

The hotel industry in Washington, DC, the capital of the United States, is preparing for the 47th Presidential Inauguration on January 20, 2025. This will be the first inauguration since 2017 to allow public tourism attendance.

Hotels, restaurants, and attractions across the city's neighborhoods are offering inauguration-related packages, menus, exhibitions, and tours. As the official destination marketing organization for the nation's capital, Destination DC showcases this information in multiple ways, providing the latest resources for visitor trip planning.

Visitors can find comprehensive information about the inauguration on , including the event schedule, hotel offers, tips for experiencing U.S. presidential history for free (or nearly free), renowned restaurants, and iconic Washington, DC cuisine. As details such as road closures are announced, the website will also update with inauguration FAQ.

The official website of Destination DC has become a key tool for planning trips to the nation's capital, covering presidential experiences, Oval Office-approved restaurants, a three-day presidential itinerary, ways to pay free tribute to American history and heritage, and more.

For visitor services, call the Destination DC information line, available Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 5 PM Eastern Time.

Inauguration Hotel Packages:

Fairmont Washington, DC Georgetown - First Family Inauguration Package

The luxury package includes round-trip airfare for four people and a pet to anywhere in the U.S., a four-night stay in the 2,150-square-foot Georgetown Suite, two butlers, a $25,000 shopping credit at Saks Fifth Avenue, in-suite hair and makeup services, transportation to all inauguration events, a signature cocktail with guest names, a private photographer, chef-prepared meals, and more. The package is priced at $350,000.

The Hay-Adams – Presidential Inauguration Package

Special welcome ceremony and inauguration souvenirs.

JW Marriott Washington, DC - Sky-High Suite Experience

Three-night stay in an exclusive suite with access to a 12th-floor terrace above the inaugural parade route, private in-suite dinner, nightly souvenir amenities, and airport transfers. Priced at $20,000.

Kimpton Georgetown Hotel – Inaugural Retreat Package

Welcome amenity, presidential inauguration souvenir, late checkout.

Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington, DC – Inaugural Escape Package

Accommodation in the Robert Mills Suite, featuring a corner bedroom, living room, and bathroom with a 72-inch deep soaking clawfoot tub, VIP turndown service, custom welcome amenity, 2025 inauguration souvenir, and late checkout.

Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection - Curated Legacy Suite

Celebrating its 100th anniversary in 2025, the Mayflower's package includes a private dinner for two, round-trip airport transfers, and a stay in the redesigned Legacy Suite, which includes a library featuring books written by famous guests. Priced at $25,000.

Riggs Washington, DC – Inauguration Package

Four-night luxury stay in the two-bedroom Riggs Suite, private gathering at the Dishonest Bar with signature cocktails and canapés, plus an exclusive viewing event for up to 30 guests featuring champagne, caviar, Silver Lyan experience bar, and Martini & Oyster Bar. Priced at $50,000.

Royal Sonesta Washington, DC - Dupont Circle – Inauguration VIP Experience Package

Accommodation in the Presidential Suite or Spa Suite, dedicated butler service, exclusive welcome reception, inauguration-themed welcome gifts and amenities, private viewing party, and a four-person dinner at Certo on Inauguration Night.

Salamander Washington, DC – Exclusive 2025 Inauguration Package

Stay in the brand-new Presidential Suite with panoramic views and 3,520 square feet, including two bedrooms, a dining room, office, media room, and marble bathroom. Luxury airport transfers in both directions, gourmet food and beverages, a rejuvenating spa day (for up to six guests), and 24-hour private butler service. Starting at $244,700.

The Watergate Hotel – Head of State Package

Luxurious package includes a stay in the Presidential Suite, helicopter transfer, and an armored Maybach with a dedicated chauffeur. Starting at $73,500.

The Westin Washington, DC Downtown - Celebrate 47 in Comfort and Style

Three-night stay in the Presidential Suite plus four deluxe guest rooms, in-suite inauguration viewing party and champagne brunch for eight, commemorative fleece robes with the number 47, welcome gift basket, and a $500 credit at the hotel's Root and Vine restaurant. Priced at $35,000.

2025 Inauguration Day:

Inauguration Day begins with the swearing-in ceremony at noon, followed by the parade along Pennsylvania Avenue, and ends with the official inaugural balls as confirmed by the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies.

Special events are planned throughout the city, including unofficial ticketed balls open to the public. Destination DC will share event details and notes.

Election certification (January 6) and Inauguration Day (January 20) are designated as National Special Security Events, meaning the U.S. Secret Service will lead a detailed security operation in coordination with the Metropolitan Police Department and many other agencies.

Information about the 2025 Presidential Inauguration Day in Washington, DC

Where to watch the events

The formal ceremony on Inauguration Day will take place around noon on the West Front of the U.S. Capitol, where the President-elect and Vice President-elect will be sworn in, followed by the President-elect's inaugural address. Typically, the schedule is as follows: security gates open at 6:00 AM, musical performances begin around 9:30 AM, and opening remarks at 11:30 AM. A ticket is required to attend the swearing-in ceremony. Tickets are free but in high demand and must be requested through the office of your U.S. Representative or Senator. A giant screen on the National Mall will broadcast the event live to thousands of spectators. You can watch the presidential procession and inaugural parade along Pennsylvania Avenue, which goes from the U.S. Capitol to the White House. A limited number of bleacher seats can be reserved through the 60th Presidential Inaugural Committee, while standing along the sidewalk is free and does not require reservations. The parade is expected to begin around 3:00 PM on Inauguration Day.

How to see the new president's parade route?

After the swearing-in, the president will travel along Pennsylvania Avenue from the U.S. Capitol to the White House. The parade is expected to begin at 3:00 PM on Inauguration Day. Join thousands of spectators along Pennsylvania Avenue to watch. A limited number of bleacher seats can be reserved through the Presidential Inaugural Committee, while sidewalk viewing is free and does not require reservations.

How to get ceremony tickets?

Tickets are free but in high demand and must be requested through your local elected official in your congressional district (contact information available on the Senate and U.S. House websites). You must request tickets through the staff of your member of Congress. Be prepared to provide your contact information and explain why you want tickets. Typically, community leaders and volunteers are given priority, so keep in mind any work you've done for civic organizations or groups when requesting tickets. If you cannot get tickets, you can still watch the ceremony on the giant screen on the National Mall.

Toast the new president at inaugural balls

Guests attending balls may want to wear evening gowns or tuxedos and dance the night away; they will have many options. Inauguration Day brings glamour to Washington, DC, gathering celebrities from politics, business, and entertainment. Many top caterers are booked a year in advance, and some luxury stores set up pop-up shops in upscale hotels to meet any last-minute wardrobe needs.

Balls are divided into official and unofficial, with the difference being that the newly elected president and vice president attend many official balls. The public can request tickets to these balls through the 60th Presidential Inaugural Committee. Alternatively, tickets for many unofficial balls can be purchased directly from the host venue or organization.

The presidential inauguration is a festive experience, but like any event of this scale, preparation makes it smoother and more enjoyable. Be sure to check announcements in advance. January in Washington, DC is cold, so dress warmly and wear comfortable shoes. Thousands of portable toilets will be set up on the National Mall and near metro stations. Bring your own water and snacks, or purchase from vendors on-site. There are also many restaurants near the National Mall.

All events require security screening. Be sure to bring a photo ID and check the list of prohibited items in advance. Accommodation demand in Washington, DC is extremely high during Inauguration Day. Hotel rates increase, and many hotels require a minimum multiple-night stay. Check current packages and offers. Driving is not recommended. Parking will be very limited, and there will be road closures to accommodate crowds and the parade, so visitors are advised to walk, bike, and/or take the Metro.

If you use ride-sharing apps (such as Uber or Lyft), note that there will be geo-fencing around security areas, meaning the app will not function within those areas.