Your Ultimate Guide to Safety and Travel for Inauguration Day Adventures

Jan 09, 2025

Board of Trade

Inauguration Day Regional Safety & Travel Guide

Stay Secure & Connected on Inauguration Day

Local and federal authorities in D.C. are diligently preparing for the 2025 Presidential Inauguration planned for Jan. 20, ensuring the area is equipped to tackle any safety and logistical issues during this monumental occasion. Updates from transportation, government, and business officials concerning the Inauguration Day week — a crucial period for Downtown D.C. and the Greater Washington region — are provided below. The Board of Trade remains committed to keeping the business sector informed and will persist in delivering timely updates as we near this important event.

Safety & Transportation Details

Rally scheduled prior to Inauguration Day at Capital One Arena on Jan. 19

A rally is planned for Sunday, Jan. 19, at Capital One Arena, ahead of Inauguration Day. Information regarding road closures will be revealed in the upcoming days.

To find out more about the rally, click here:

WMATA announces route and station closures for Inauguration Day

Starting from Sunday, Jan. 19, through Tuesday, Jan. 21, buses will be rerouted daily due to the 2025 Presidential Inauguration. Kindly allocate extra travel time and avoid the area if feasible. More closures may be announced; additional information can be found here:

Public Overview Map for Inauguration Day

The image below showcases the Inauguration Day Public Overview Map which presents the latest United States Secret Service information concerning restricted areas, public access points, and traffic zones. The DDOT has repaved the Inauguration Day route through the end of 2024. Expect more updates from local and federal officials, which may include alterations to this map, as Jan. 20 approaches.

D.C. Government & Metropolitan Police Department:

D.C. officials and leaders will be on high alert for Inauguration Day due to the expected large crowds and events taking place downtown. Inauguration Day is classified as a National Special Security Event, allowing D.C. to receive stronger support from federal law enforcement agencies and military personnel to ensure the District’s safety. Recently, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser met with President-elect Donald Trump to discuss collaborative strategies for enhancing the nation’s capital during his forthcoming second term.

Moreover, the MPD is cooperating with both local and federal authorities to ensure public safety in the downtown area, posting updates here. Report any threats or emergencies to 911. To maintain community safety, report suspicious behavior by calling 202-727-9099, texting 50411, or visiting iwatchdc.org.

Capital Police:

The National Park Service (NPS) has instituted a partial closure of Lafayette Park and certain White House sidewalks to ensure public safety during preparations and events linked to the presidential inauguration. These closures will remain effective until February 2025. The northern section of Lafayette Park stays open for visitors and First Amendment activities. Construction activities initiated on Oct. 1 will allow extra time needed for a more secure environment. The Washington Post has also verified that Capitol Police are collaborating with the D.C. National Guard to refine response strategies in anticipation of Inauguration Day.

Anticipate Museum Closures on the National Mall

Most museums located on the National Mall in D.C. will remain closed on Inauguration Day to alleviate traffic congestion.

For further details regarding these closures, click here:

Guidance For Downtown Businesses

Register for real-time alerts from the District regarding public safety, traffic effects, and more updates on elections and inauguration by visiting alertdc.dc.gov.

ReadyDC offers resources to assist businesses in developing emergency plans, safeguarding critical data, and enhancing personal preparedness efforts among your staff. Discover more by visiting ready.dc.gov/business.

Report any suspicious behavior. If you notice anything unusual, report it at iwatchdc.org or inform a police officer, and call 911 if you are facing an emergency or feel immediate danger. Additionally, stay updated on the developments for Inauguration Day from the D.C. Government here.