WASHINGTON, DC – Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, today proudly hosts the annual DC Loves Buses Day. The event honors the motorcoach drivers who play an integral role in the success of group tourism in the nation’s capital and drive local economic growth.
“We never want a year to go by where DC motorcoach drivers go unrecognized,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. “Their dedication to facilitating group travel throughout Washington, DC allows tourism to thrive and the economy to grow. We are beyond grateful to them for their contributions in making DC a top destination.”
For the 14th year, the event underscores the importance of group tour operators and bus companies in making Washington, DC one of the premier group tour destinations in the U.S. Together with partners including American Bus Association (ABA), the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), National Park Service-National Mall and Memorial Parks, United Motorcoach Association, International Motorcoach Group, National Tour Association, Student & Youth Travel Association (SYTA) and United Motorcoach Association, DDC champions drivers.
Two hundred and fifty lunches will be gifted to drivers, generously donated by Carmine's, a DC favorite restaurant serving authentic Italian family-style cuisine in Penn Quarter. DDC and its partners, including 12 co-ops and members, will be stationed at motorcoach drop-off points along the National Mall, near L’Enfant Plaza and in the Union Station Parking Garage. Drivers adhering to anti-idling laws will have the opportunity to participate in a prize drawing sponsored by DDOT.
Group travel is a vital component of tourism in Washington, DC with the nation’s capital being the second most popular destination for student groups (SYTA, 2023) and a top spot for general travel. DDC facilitates the sector by offering unique itineraries, activities and resources for planning engaging group and student trips. Upcoming DC group travel highlights include World Pride, the newly revamped FIFA Club World Cup and America’s 250th anniversary celebration in 2026.
Stay up to date and find more tips for group travel by following the dedicated DC Loves Groups Facebook page.
The following DDC partners and co-ops helped make DC Love Buses Day possible:
- Adventure Tours
- Cambria Hotel Washington D.C. Navy Yard Riverfront
- Carmine's
- Fogo de Chao
- Hampton Inn & Suites DC-Navy Yard
- Holiday Inn Washington Capitol - National Mall
- Hornblower Cruises & Events
- La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Washington DC/NY Avenue
- O Museum in the Mansion
- Swingers
- Washington Hilton
- YOTEL Hotel Washington DC
About Destination DC: DDC is a private, non-profit membership organization that markets the nation’s capital as a premier global convention, tourism, and special events destination, with a strong emphasis on the arts, cultural, and historic communities. Visit washington.org.
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April 23, 2025