DC Loves Buses Day Celebrates the Impact of Group Tours in Washington, DC

Washington, DC – Today, Destination DC (DDC), the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC, proudly hosts the annual DC Loves Buses Day. The event is dedicated to honoring the motorcoach drivers who play a pivotal role in the success of group tourism in the capital, significantly contributing to the local economy.

This year marks the 13th anniversary of DC Loves Buses Day, a campaign that 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. Among the partners supporting this initiative are the District Department of Transportation (DDOT), National Park Service-National Mall and Memorial Parks, American Bus Association, United Motorcoach Association, Union Station Parking Garage, National Tour Association, Student & Youth Travel Association, International Motorcoach Group and other notable hospitality entities.

“Despite challenges such as a national driver shortage, motorcoach drivers are dedicated to facilitating group travel throughout Washington, DC, which is so important to what we do as an economic development organization focused on growing visitation,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO of Destination DC. “Drivers are the unsung heroes who significantly contribute to our reputation as a top destination for group tours. Today, we express our gratitude for their invaluable service.”

As a gesture of appreciation, DDC and its partners, including 18 co-ops and members such as Carmine's, DCAcar, the Embassy Suites by Hilton, the AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard, Old Town Trolley Tours, the Washington Hilton and Founders Table Restaurant Group, will be stationed at key locations including Union Station Parking Garage and various motorcoach drop-off points around the National Mall and L’Enfant Plaza. The drivers will be treated to 250 lunches generously donated by Carmine's, a DC favorite restaurant serving Southern Italian family-style cuisine in Penn Quarter. Gift bags filled with tokens of appreciation will be distributed. Compliant drivers adhering to anti-idling laws will have the opportunity to participate in a prize drawing sponsored by DDOT.

In comparison to last year’s distribution of 150 lunches and gift bags, this year’s increased distribution underscores the growing recognition and appreciation of drivers and their contributions to the tourism sector.

Group travel is a vital component of tourism in Washington, DC. DDC facilitates the sector by offering unique itineraries, activities and resources for planning engaging group and student trips. Washington, DC’s visitation is on an upward trajectory since the pandemic, and group travel contributes significantly. Roughly seven percent of the nearly 22 million visitors to DC in 2022 were tied to education. The impact of group travel overall is more significant than ever.

Stay updated and find more tips for group travel by following the dedicated DC Loves Groups Facebook page.
 

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 us at washington.org.