Presidential Inauguration Guide 2025

Thank you for your interest in the 2025 Inaugural Ceremony in Washington,  D.C. where our nation will witness and honor the next President of the United States. The 60^th Presidential Inauguration and Swearing-In ceremony is expected to take place on January 20^th, 2025 in Washington, D.C. on the West front of the United States Capitol. At this time, admission to the inauguration ceremony is by ticket only. 

Tickets for the Inaugural swearing-in ceremonies will be distributed in January, 2025 by both Senators and Representatives. You can find the contact information for your state’s representatives on the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives websites.

Where to Stay During the Presidential Inauguration

Stay in Fairfax during the Inauguration Ceremony and avoid the cost of staying in Washington DC!

Due to the increased visitation to Washington DC for the Presidential Inauguration, visitors and guests are encouraged to book their hotels early.

Fairfax County is one of the best and most economical places to stay while visiting Washington, DC. Because a lot of Fairfax hotels and motels are just miles from the nation's capital, it makes it easy for visitors to travel and commute for the festivities in January.
 

How Do I Travel From Fairfax County to Washington, DC?

Fairfax County is an economical choice and one of the nicest places to stay near the city. Approximately half of our hotels are located within 15 miles of the U.S. Capitol Building and the National Mall which makes us a popular destination during this patriotic event. Travel directly by metro, car, or train to and from Fairfax County and Washington DC using the following methods:

Metro

Take the Washington DC Metro Orange Line from the Vienna, Dunn Loring, or West Falls Church stations, the Washington DC Metro Silver Line from the Reston, Tysons, or McLean stations, or the Washington DC Metro Blue Line from the Franconia station, to anywhere in the city including the center of Washington DC and Union Station. Metro is preparing to be the transportation mode of choice for visitors on Inauguration Day 2025. Metro riders must pay via SmarTrip card or the SmarTrip app on iPhone and Apple Watch. Download your Metro Map here

Train

Burke Centre is the only station on the Amtrak Northeast Regional Line located in Fairfax County. From here you can take Amtrak to Union Station. (BCV -> WAS). If you're visiting us coming from the south, and you want to bring your car with you in order to drive into DC, you can take the Amtrak Auto Train to the Lorton Station.

Car

This is the least recommended mode of transportation on inauguration day as road closures and parking limitations make it difficult to navigate the streets of DC near the event.

Explore the DC Area Before & After the Inauguration

The days leading up to and following the Presidential Inauguration offer the perfect opportunity to explore everything Fairfax County has to offer. From shopping and dining to cultural attractions, here’s how you can make the most of your time in the area:

• Shopping Excursions: Start your trip with some retail therapy at Tysons Corner Center, one of the largest shopping malls on the East Coast. Here, you'll find everything from luxury brands to popular retailers, making it an ideal spot to pick up any last-minute inauguration essentials.

• History Exploration: Dig into the local history by visiting places like Mount Vernon or Gunston Hall, the historic home of George Mason. These sites offer fascinating insights into the D.C. area’s rich history and heritage.

• Dining Delights: Treat yourself to a delicious meal at one of Fairfax County’s top restaurants. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale dining or local comfort food, you’ll find plenty of options to satisfy your palate. Find the perfect spot for a nice dinner after the inauguration ceremony.

• Art and Entertainment: Experience the local arts scene by visiting the Workhouse Arts Center in Lorton, where you can view art exhibits, attend performances, and even take part in creative workshops. Another place to experience a unique art scene is the art murals in Mosaic District.

• Nature Outing: For nature lovers, Great Falls Park offers stunning views of the Potomac River’s waterfalls and landscapes. Enjoy hiking trails and opportunities to spot the beautiful winter wildlife.

Extend Your Stay in Fairfax County

If you're planning to extend your trip beyond the Presidential Inauguration, Fairfax County offers a variety of nearby events and activities that make it an ideal base for further exploration. Here are some ideas for trips and weekend getaways that will enrich your visit:

• Old Town Alexandria: Take a day trip to the charming Old Town Alexandria, where cobblestone streets, historic buildings, and waterfront views create a perfect setting for shopping, dining, and exploring art galleries.

• Virginia Wine Country: Escape on a couples getaway to the rolling hills of Virginia’s wine country, where you can tour local vineyards, enjoy wine tastings, and take in scenic views. The region is home to big names, like the Winery at Bull Run, offering a relaxing retreat just a short drive from Fairfax.

​​Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or simply unwinding, these extended stay ideas ensure that your trip to Fairfax County and the surrounding area is filled with memorable experiences. Book your trip to the DC area for the presidential inauguration today and don’t miss out on all the other attractions the area has to offer!