DC Loves Buses Day Celebrates the Impact of Group Tours in the Nation’s Capital
Annual event honors motorcoach drivers and their impact on the success of group tourism.
On May 16, Destination DC (DDC)—the official destination marketing organization for Washington, DC—proudly hosted the annual DC Loves Buses Day for 2024. The event, which was celebrated for the 13th year in 2024, 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.
DC Loves Buses Day is 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, were 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 were 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 were also distributed, and compliant drivers adhering to anti-idling laws had 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 allocation 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 7% 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.
Courtesy of Groups Today.
Photos Courtesy of Destination DC.
