walking tours of dc neighborhoods

DC's highest rated walking tour company - plus the tours are free to join! DC by Foot presents pay-what-you-like walking tours of Washington, DC - also offering food, bike and bus tours

DC's highest rated walking tour company - plus the tours are free to join! DC by Foot presents pay-what-you-like walking tours of Washington, DC - also offering food, bike and bus tours. These high energy tours will take you through the National Mall, around the Tidal Basin, through Arlington Cemetery, Georgetown, Capitol Hill, and the U Street corridor, with stories, secrets and useful information about our national treasures. We also lead the exciting Lincoln Assassination and ghost tours of both the White House and Georgetown. Please visit our website for updated tours, pick-up and drop-off locations and all other related tour information. DC by Foot is also great with student, family and corporate groups.

• ADA Compliant
• Foreign Language Guides
• Free Admission
• Guided tours available
• Private Tour

Additional Information

Distance to metro, group maximum, attraction rates, length of tour, service type.

Multilingual Guides, Regular Scheduled Tours, Step On, Student Tours

Metro Station

Federal Triangle, Metro Center, Smithsonian

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1740 18th st. nw ste. 304 washington , dc 20009 united states, (202) 370-1830, [email protected].

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Monuments by Moonlight Night Tour

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D.C. Spotlight

Abraham Lincoln's Washington

Available for private tour bookings. Email [email protected] for more information.

Available for private bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Capitol Hill and Eastern Market

Available for private tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Capitol Riverfront

Available for private bookings. Email [email protected] for more information.

Carnegie Library and Mount Vernon Square

Available for private and group tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Dupont Circle

Georgetown Waterfront

Available for private bookings.  Contact us at [email protected] for details.

Also available for private and group tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Historic Southwest Waterfront

Available for private tour bookings.  Contact us for details.

How Food Shapes a City

Saturday, May 25, 2024 at 11:00 a.m.

Penn Quarter

Rainbow Pride D.C.

Available as a private tour. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Renewing Urban Renewal

Saturday, June 8, 2024

Available for private bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Rock Creek Cemetery

Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. 

Also available for private tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Rock Creek Park

The Washington Wilderness Hike

Friday, November 29, 2024 at 10:00 a.m.

Also available for private and group tour bookings. Email [email protected] for more information.

Woodley Park

Available for private tours. Please email [email protected] for more information.

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DC Neighborhood Heritage Trails

Washington DC's Neighborhood Heritage Trails are the official walking trails of Washington, DC. These self-guided walking tours provide a glimpse into the rich diversity of DC's neighborhoods, past and present.

Consider taking a stroll along the Neighborhood Heritage Trails.  Each trail offers a one- to two-mile trek punctuated by large poster-sized markers that combine stories, historic photographs and maps to bring DC history and culture to life.  There are 17 heritage trails throughout  the city, so pick one and get some fresh air!

1. Adams Morgan

2 . Barracks Row

3. Brightwood

4. Columbia Heights

 5 . Deanwood

6. Downtown

   7. Federal Triangle

8. Georgia Avenue

9. H Street

10. Logan Circle

11. Mount Pleasant

13. Southwest

14. Tenleytown

   15. U Street

16. Anacostia

17. Ledroit Park

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16 Best Walking Tours in Washington DC for a Deep Dive into American History

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Political intrigue, historic sites, an endless array of colorful personalities… there’s plenty of fodder for the best walking tours in Washington DC !

Whether you want to roam through museums or learn the secret stories behind world-famous buildings, you’ll always find amazing things to do in Washington DC ; but such a dynamic city is best experienced on foot.

So come and see what Washington DC has to offer, from the inspirational to the mysterious to the unsavory and everything in between!

Want to dive straight in? Browse our catalog now!

• Washington DC walking tours

1 – Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 1596 reviews )

“By far the most beautiful cemetery. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and gave us so much information about some of the people that have been laid to rest. This is definitely an experience that everyone should add to their bucket list.” Andrea, Viator

It may seem odd to start your time in the city at a final resting place, but the stately grounds of Arlington National Cemetery are filled with significant spots… and one very important ceremony!

The Changing Of The Guard occurs throughout the day at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, with precise rituals marking a moment of vigil for fallen warriors.

And of course, you’ll get plenty of time to explore the grounds and learn about the many people entombed there, including prominent soldiers from various conflicts and President John F. Kennedy.

With this trip from Guided Tours DC , you’ll get the full experience of this powerful site.

This is a wonderful, in-depth look at the cemetery and its history!

You’ll get to learn about all of the most significant graves and monuments, with some amazing historical context from your guide.

And the chance to see the Changing of the Guard up close makes it even more spectacular!

• Arlington Cemetery walking tours

2 – Washington DC: Walking Tour and African American Museum

Rating: ⭐️ 4.6/5 ( 142 reviews )

“The tour was great and the guide is a true local with a wealth of knowledge, care for the history and for the people he walks with. I highly recommend this tour!” Karla, GET YOUR GUIDE

Since it opened in 2016, the National Museum of African American History and Culture has been a jewel in the Smithsonian’s crown, with four floors of artifacts that explore triumphs and troubles in equal measure.

And while there are many amazing African American History tours , the one by UTG EXPERIENCE LIMITED is particularly intriguing, combining the best of both worlds.

Start with some of the other highlights in town, such as the White House, then make your way to the spectacular museum itself for some self-guided exploration.

There are also private tours available if you really want to soak up the history in greater depth!

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If you want to enhance your museum-going experience, this is the perfect tour!

It highlights the underrepresented stories of the capital, and helps bring some context to the larger history of the African-American experience.

And best of all, you can gain easy access to one of the city’s most popular museums!

• African American History walking tours

Read more: Best Museums in Washington DC

3 – Ghosts of Georgetown Night-Time Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 172 reviews )

“Great tour guide, fun tales of the history of Georgetown and its ghosts and spirits. There are so many houses and stories included in this enjoyable tour.” Pamela, Viator

This is certainly a city with a lot of famous residents, past and present.

But some of those former citizens might still be seen haunting the streets!

On this delightfully spooky tour, you’ll get to learn all of the salacious tales of one of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, courtesy of Visit DC Tours .

Dig up tales of past misdeeds and mysterious goings on, all tinged with the high political drama that runs in the capital’s veins.

And if you like this angle, there are tons of other ghost tours in Washington DC to draw you deeper into the ethereal world!

The perfect combination of educational content and creepy tales, this tour really has something for everyone!

It also lets you see one of the city’s most distinctive neighborhoods up close, showing off the amazing streets and houses at a leisurely pace.

• ghost walking tours in Washington DC

4 – Historic Georgetown Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 112 reviews )

“Our guide was extremely knowledgeable and had a great sense of humor. We thoroughly enjoyed the experience.” Gregory, Viator

Want to learn more about the famous Georgetown neighborhood beyond its ghostly occupants?

Then head out with Visit DC Tours to enjoy the character and charm of streets that have long been home to the city’s elite movers and shakers.

As you explore the area, you’ll get to hear all about the high-society world that has flourished here for centuries, and even pass by a few presidential residences.

With gorgeous antique architecture and a legacy dating back to the 1700s, these streets are practically characters unto themselves!

If you love old homes, amazing stories, and getting the inside scoop on a community, you’ll love this walk!

Along with a great overview of Georgetown’s many eras, you’ll also get more personalized stories that really highlight the area’s unique identity and residents.

• Georgetown walking tours

5 – Free walking tours: Morning Walking Tour of DC Monuments

Rating: ⭐️ 4.3/5 (73 reviews)

“Amazing tour guide, lots of knowledge and fun/ personal facts about the places.” Gabriel, Guruwalk

If you want to see all of the city’s highlights without breaking the bank, this tour from GuruWalk is the perfect stroll for you!

Take a leisurely trip to remarkable spots that pay tribute to past presidents, massive wars, and fallen activists, with a wonderful guide on hand to provide cool tidbits of information along the way.

Along with classic stops like the Lincoln Memorial and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, you’ll get to explore some lesser known spots, such as the memorials dedicated to Korean War veterans and the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Take in some of the country’s most iconic buildings and works of art without the hustle and bustle of the midday crowds!

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Packed with information and unique insights, this tour is a wonderful way to get to know popular sites on a deeper level.

And because you have a local guide on-hand, you’ll also be able to get some more personalized perspectives on the city and its history – all at a truly unbeatable price!

Read more: Best Washington DC Monuments Tours

6 – The Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 99 reviews )

“Good experience and informative guide. Showed how the historic sites in DC were connected with the Lincoln assassination with interesting back story.” Brian, Viator

One of the more tragic chapters in the city’s history is also one of its most prominent, and there’s no shortage of Lincoln’s Assassination tours to help you understand the fateful events of 1865.

This walk brings the whole tale to life, as it leads you step by step through the spots where history occurred.

With Visit DC Tours , you’ll retrace the paths of all the major players, from President Abraham Lincoln and assassin John WIlkes Booth to scores of other citizens that got swept up in the killing and the chaos that followed.

It’s a fascinating look into a tumultuous historical period!

If the excellent views of various political buildings don’t entice you, the remarkable insights into the assassination certainly will.

This is the perfect opportunity to step back into history, seeing how every part of the event unfolded on both a large and small scale.

• Lincoln’s Assassination walking tours

7 – Haunted DC Walking Tour on Capitol Hill

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 142 reviews )

“It was a lot of fun. Stories I had not heard before. The presenter was engaging and let us sit during long stories. Felt safe with our presenter even late at night. Well priced.” Sarah, Viator

Time to get a little spooky again, this time in the company of Scary DC !

This is your chance to get up close and personal with the ghosts and strange supernatural side of the city, including some of its most haunted places – and with over 200 years of amazing incidents and characters, there’s a lot to draw from!

Spend some time exploring the stranger side of Capitol Hill , which is home to just as many eerie tales as it is policymakers.

Blending history and mystery with panache, this is the perfect trip if you love learning new things… and don’t mind getting a little scared in the process!

While this tour is certainly full of learning experiences, it’s also tons of fun!

If you like a little bit of whimsy and a lot of unique stories, you’ll love this look into the supernatural side of things.

• walking tours in Washington DC

Read more: 9 Best US Capitol Tours Showcasing Washington DC’s Iconic Landmark

8 – DC: Guided National Mall and Monuments Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.7/5 ( 35 reviews )

“It was great. More than I expected. Ryan came well prepared with pictures and knowledge.” Darrell, get your guide

Monuments and Memorials are a wonderfully inescapable part of this town, and there’s nothing better than getting some extra perspective while you stroll around!

You’ll have lots of time to take in the beauty, and get a good sense of how each spot was built, and what they symbolize.

Whether you’re paying tribute to Thomas Jefferson or learning about the impact of lesser-known wars, this is the perfect way to get to know the stories behind the scenery.

It’s not just the amount of stops that makes this an appealing trip; it’s also the endless stream of fun facts you’ll get along the way.

If you really want to get to know these spots beyond just the basics, this engaging tour has got you covered!

Read more: Best Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

9 – Madams of DC Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 60 reviews )

“Wonderful walking trip in DC on a crisp fall evening and heard a history of the area and its colorful history. Highly recommend.” Greg, Viator

From the serious to the saucy, it’s time to explore some of the more exciting chapters of local history, courtesy of Off the Mall Tours .

Because while they might not get as much attention as the celebrities and politicians, the prostitutes and madams that once plied these streets were certainly popular in their day.

In fact, many of these women were directly involved in local affairs, even consorting with Army officials!

Pass by former brothels, and the spots that once served as red-light districts… including the famous Pennsylvania Avenue!

This is certainly a unique angle on the city’s history, and one that’s perfect for the history buff with a curious mind.

And if you really want to dive into the capital’s origins and its growth in the 1800s, this tour offers a fascinating perspective!

10 – National Mall & Memorials & Tidal Basin Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 47 reviews )

“The best tour of the mall teaching us so much and what a great walk with a terrific guide. Couldnt have chosen a better experience, got so lucky! Thanks Gideon for this tour!” Pribi, Viator

Time for another gem from Visit DC Tours , this time starring one of the most famous landmarks in town – and the underrated ecosystem surrounding it!

You may have already become acquainted with the National Mall , the massive pedestrian area where so many significant events have taken place.

Just next door to the main drag, the Tidal Basin is a sight to behold: 107 acres wide, 10 feet deep, and filled with water from the Potomac.

Between the pristine slices of nature and all of the amazing Monuments and Memorials nearby, it’s a wonderful spot to roam around!

This is the ideal tour if you want to discover all the cool aspects of the Mall, with an endless selection of stories to keep you entertained.

And the chance to look around the Tidal Basin area really makes it stand out above the rest, bringing nature and culture together in one memorable walk.

• National Mall walking tours

11 – Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Highlights Walking Tour (With Tickets)

Rating: ⭐️ 5/5 ( 20 reviews )

“Seeing the Capitol up close with very few people (no session) and a fantastic guide. The Library of Congress may be the most beautiful place I have seen in a long time. Will go back to Library in the future.” Karen, Viator

Bookworms, rejoice!

With over 100 million manuscripts and volumes on the shelves, the Library of Congress is a world-class archive and knowledge base – and it’s ripe for exploring, too!

This is a two-for-one gem from Visit DC Tours , covering both the endless shelves of the library and the other classic attractions of Capitol Hill .

Learn fun facts about the remarkable collection, and explore the delightfully wonky legacies of the Congressional buildings.

You might even get to swing by the Supreme Court and learn about legal processes in action!

You’ll really get to know these popular political sites during the tour, and the intimate details make it endlessly rewarding.

And even if you’ve seen them before, the chance to go inside and enjoy a quieter, more personalized visit really makes an impact.

• Capitol Hill walking tours

12 – Washington D.C: Self-Guided Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt

Rating: ⭐️ 3.6/5 ( 11 reviews )

“Very well done. I liked it better than the many times more expensive bus tours.” Stefan, GET YOUR GUIDE

If you like a more proactive style of sightseeing, then switch out your walking shoes for your treasure hunter’s hat, and embark on a quest like no other!

The aptly named Action Tour Guide runs this lively trip, which turns each of these iconic monuments and attractions into clues in the massive historic puzzle that is the capital.

Like the other scavenger games in Washington DC , this tour is a self-guided option, where you download the app and follow clues all over town to create your own itinerary.

And with fascinating anecdotes stretching back to the days of the Founding Fathers, you’ll get to learn something new with each step.

While this is certainly a good option for independent types, it still provides just as much entertainment and information as any guided trip!

The best part about this option is the flexibility; since you can start and stop whenever you’d like, it’s a great way to enjoy the capital on your own time.

• scavenger walking tours

13 – Haunted Washington D.C. Ghost and Pub Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 38 reviews )

“Rooftop bar and interesting stories and beautiful weather! Would definitely go back with more family and friends.” Nancy, Viator

There are certainly a lot of ghost tours in Washington DC , and no shortage of pub crawls in Washington DC ; but this offering brings the two together with flair and fun!

Hosted by Nightly Spirits , this adventure takes place all over Lafayette Square and the surrounding area, with stops at some renowned pubs along the way.

A costumed actor serves as your entertaining leader through the spectral nightlife of this town, where the only thing better than the under-the-radar stories are the delicious drinks at each haunted watering hole!

You’ll seldom find a more interesting look at local nightlife, and it can very easily serve as a starting point to a wonderfully busy night out.

And of course, the heaps of great stories from your guide make it an even more entertaining trip, mixing more academic facts with some good old-fashioned local anecdotes.

Hot tip: Check out the 15 Best Night Tours in Washington DC .

14 – Washington, DC: Private National Mall Walking Tour

“We thoroughly enjoyed our walking tour of the National Mall. Our guide was knowledgeable and able to add additional information from various perspectives to the usual information about the monuments.” kristine, Get Your Guide

Take your learning experience to the next level, as you get a hands-on, ultra-exclusive perspective on this beautiful spot!

Moving from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, you’ll get to enjoy a fascinating, personalized exploration of the National Mall , from its most significant events to the unique legacy of its many famous sites.

Join UTG EXPERIENCE LIMITED on this unforgettable journey with an expert guide providing plenty of attention and an individualized adventure through the capital!

This is ideal for fans of fun facts, with well-read guides providing surprising details about the various stops.

And the tour is just long enough to let you dig deeper into different parts of local history, while still making sure that you get to spend plenty of time at these famous sites.

Read more: Best City Tours in Washington DC

15 – Secrets & Scandals: Washington DC Private Half-Day Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.5/5 ( 6 reviews )

“It was so personal snd clear in the understanding. We loved it and would highly recommend it. Our guide was very personal snd fun.” Susanne, Viator

Another great opportunity to explore the stranger side of town comes courtesy of Travel Curious , with this personalized journey into the past!

This is your chance to feel like a spy, as your guide provides inside info on popular spots like the congressional buildings and the headquarters for the FBI.

And because it’s a private excursion, you’ll get plenty of chances to ask all the questions you want, and time to stop and take photos.

It’s time to go under the radar and behind the curtain, as you fill your head with intriguing tales from this one-of-a-kind town!

You’ll get to enjoy some truly delightful tales on your trip, including a lot of insight into the inner workings of the city – a must for history nerds.

But it’s the personalized attention that really puts this walk over the top – take plenty of time to ask your guide all the questions you want!

16 – Washington DC: National Mall Self Guided App Walking Tour

Rating: ⭐️ 4.4/5 ( 5 reviews )

“nice tour with general historic information.” Lydia, Get Your Guide

With the help of WalknTours , you can take on the streets in your own way – and get to know them as well as the locals!

Download the app, fire up your phone, and head out to discover the treats of the National Mall , from the epic to the hidden.

And while you’ll be moving at your own pace, you’ll still get the same amazing insights that you would with a guide, courtesy of the audio commentary.

Statues, gardens, galleries, and monuments all reveal themselves before you, creating an unforgettable experience with the nation’s capital and the people who have shaped it.

This is another excellent opportunity to see the city at your own pace, with a program that’s perfectly designed to show you around town.

From the professional-grade audio guide to the engaging information included at each stop, you’ll really get a sense of the town’s history… and you’ll even get to discover some amazing secrets along the way!

How to book walking tours in Washington DC?

There are lots of different companies offering walking tours, and you can also purchase them online from various travel websites.

These sites often offer discounts, so the price might vary from one site to the next.

And if you want a good place to start, our search engine lets you compare options, reviews, and prices all in one convenient spot.

Take time to shop around for the stroll of your dreams!

• compare walking tours in Washington DC

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Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Local Neighborhood Tours of Washington DC

We offer local neighborhood tours of Washington, DC for anyone looking for a #staycation or locals who want to explore DC.

• H St NE: Displacement & Gentrification

H Street NE through the lense of Gentrification. Explore the interplay of historic Washington's rise through the struggles after the 1968 uprisings. Significant focus on how gentrification is playing out today in the neighborhood recently named as one of the "hippest" neighborhoods in the United States. 

NOTE: this is a tour that will discuss topics some may find controversial such as race, racism and economics. It is also a participatory, discussion based tour. Participants will be encouraged to share their experiences and thoughts.

This tour is part of our partnership with Justice Walks so you can also book similar tours of other neighborhoods. 

• Anacostia SE DC

Join us for a walk in SE DC across the Anacostia River to walk through Historic Anacostia neighborhood.

• Le Droit Park

LeDroit Park is a hidden gem in DC with tree lined streets, detached homes and a lot of history! While it started as a gated "white only" community, the black history of LeDroit Park includes poets, educators, politicians and more.

Learn more about one of the first suburbs of DC on our walk through LeDroit Park.

• Old Town Alexandria, Virginia

Alexandria is so close to D.C. that it actually used to be a part of the federal district, yet it manages to feel as it belongs to another world… another era. Home to one of the oldest historic districts in America, Alexandria boasts a heavy dose of colonial charm.

From its founding in 1749, you'll learn about this pre- Revolutionary home where George Washington worshipped and occasionally stayed, Robert E. Lee grew up, and other stories of this historic town. End the tour at the Waterfront for some great seafood lunch or ice cream and a bit of boardwalk charm.

• Eastern Market & Barracks Row

The neighborhood of Eastern Market/Barracks Row is set on historic Capitol Hill, where the homes of historical figures mix with modern day congressmen. One of DC's first neighborhoods, you'll see the small town charm in the center of the City.

From John Philip Sousa's first home, to the men (and women) at attention at the Marine Barracks, hidden statues and a lost wine cellar. The diverse architecture surrounded by the large trees on Capitol Hill to the historic Main Street of 8th Street SE.

• Wharf & Southwest Waterfront

Learn about the Historic Southwest Waterfront and how the area grew into the glittery development of today. We'll see some of the oldest houses in the district, the Titanic Memorial, and the oldest Fish Market. 

Not be confused with the Georgetown Waterfront, this area of Southwest DC is not far from the National Mall or L'Enfant Plaza.

• East Georgetown

There is so much history in Georgetown that our regular historic Georgetown doesn't get to this part of the neighborhood and it's worth a tour of its own.

We'll see Julia Child's home, talk about the black history of Herring Hill, see some beautiful mansions and talk about the development of this part of the neighborhood.

• Adams Morgan 

Did you know that the first Toys R Us was located here? Or that the Harris Teeter used to be a boxing gym where Sugar Ray Leonard boxed? There is a lot of hidden history in Adams Morgan!

We'll explore this neighborhood's beginnings on our walking tour.

• Foggy Bottom

Come explore one of DC's oldest neighborhoods, full of history, presidential hijinks, student antics and local charm. Hear about the reason for the oddest neighborhood name in DC, as well as how Foggy Bottom connects with the rest of the city.

We offer all of these tours as private options as well! Contact us for more information.

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Walking Tours in Washington DC

There’s no better way to get to know the city than to take of the many Washington DC walking tours. These specialized and localized tours let visitors get up front and close to the city’s most amazing sights and landmarks, putting them in contact with locals who are the lifeblood of the city and who can tell visitors exactly the type of excitement that awaits for them. Whether it’s the historical sights downtown or the miles of beach along the coast, walking tours are the only way to make a personalized acquaintance with the city.

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Foggy Bottom Historic District Walking Tours  

The Foggy Bottom Association History Project offers three self-guided on-line walking tours of the Historic District - a complete History/Architecture tour, a neighborhood Art and Artists tour and a family-oriented history hunt designed for families with young children. The tours are updated as we learn new information about the neighborhood. The History and Arts tours can be walked or enjoyed from the comfort of home. On the family tour, you'll want to take your kids through the neighborhood and help them identify locations.  All you need is a pen or pencil to complete the worksheet. All tours are on flat surfaces with some slight inclines and are accessible. 

The “Foggy Bottom Historic District Walking Tour,” is  available ONLINE HERE  ( https://theclio.com/tour/2098 ) .   The easy-to-follow tour leads you though the alleys, streets, and parks of the four-block Historic District.  Use your phone to visit the 19 stops and learn about its people, lifestyles, history, art, and architecture.  The tour tracks the neighborhood’s transition from working class in the 1870s to its current status.  Each stop features a summary, descriptive details, images from past to present, and sources for additional information.  Walking the tour takes about an hour. 

The “ Foggy Bottom Historic District Arts Walking Tour ,” is  available ONLINE HERE  ( https://theclio.com/tour/2116 ) .  The tour's 13 stops highlight the murals, sculpture, and other arts of the Historic District.  Walking the tour takes less than an hour. 

The " Find Family Fun in Foggy Bottom "  worksheet  allows both adults and children to explore the four block area and learn about the history, engage in discussion, look for our black alley cat (Kitty Snows), and find the playground. A Junior Historian Certificate is available on completion of the tour. Copy and print here and here . 

Please feel free to share the tours with others who may have interest.  On the History and the Arts tours, click on the photos to see the full versions and the "text to speech audio" button to hear the tours.  If you want to share your thoughts on the tour or memories of Foggy Bottom, contact [email protected] .   Featured on Trip Advisor !

WALKING TOUR OF GEORGETOWN NEIGHBORHOOD

Walking Tour in Georgetown Washington, DC 

Take a walking tour of the Georgetown neighborhood, one of DC’s oldest neighborhood, home of Georgetown University, C&O Canal, and renowned Georgetown Cupcakes. It has a rich African American history and heritage trail exploring the homes of Herring Hill, where families migrated to Washington, DC after the Civil War. There’s a fabulous scenic view of the Kennedy Center, Watergate, and Virginia. You can see the National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial from the hills of Georgetown.

Enjoy a Georgetown Walking Tour with me and explore the neighborhood and discover beautiful murals, charming boutiques, antique shops, cobblestone streets, scrumptious restaurants, and vibrant paths leading to the marvelous Georgetown Waterfront and Harbor. The Harbor is one of my favorite places to sit and enjoy the view of the Potomac, yachts, and scenic view of historic landmarks. 

A s an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Thank you for your support!

We’ll stroll by the popular Call Your Mother Deli where President Biden and his motorcade visited for carryout.  Watch, explore, and enjoy this lovely neighborhood walking tour of Georgetown! 

Be sure to check out my Georgetown list of Best Places to Eat in DC! 

Have you visited Georgetown? Drop your best thing to do or place you would like to see below!

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Until next time, peace!

Shawn E. Gilleylen

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Nine days of walking tours bring DC’s history to the streets

Rain or shine, walkingtown dc helps you find hidden gems in your own backyard.

C ultural Tourism DC has hosted diverse, multiday groupings of free guided tours of neighborhoods around the city once or twice a year since 2000. Now offered each fall, WalkingTown DC will showcase 50 neighborhoods over the next nine days — from Sept. 15 through 23.

This year’s range of offerings is vast — geographically and thematically. They include bike tours along the city’s waterways and walking tours focusing on downtown’s historic theaters, the World War I-era American University Experiment Station, the distinctive architecture of LeDroit Park, the evolution of the Southwest waterfront, and the renowned but little-known art collection at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

Steve Shulman, executive director of Cultural Tourism DC, points out that in a city as fast-paced as DC, these tours are a welcome opportunity to stop and take in all of the history around us. Shulman views all the walks as opportunities to find the “hidden gems” in DC, such as its Irish heritage, its many colorful murals, and the landscape of the U.S. Capitol, which was specially designed to include trees that bloom year-round. Shulman’s advice for walking, especially on these tours, is to look in four directions as you go: right and left, down so you don’t trip, and up so you can enjoy the views.

A new web app called HistoryQuestDC has made it easier for tour guides to find information as they work on developing their itineraries. One click on the geo map provides details of the area. Jim Byers, who is in his 15th year guiding tours with WalkingTown, credits the app with helping him keep his tours fresh with new material. He recommends that participants select a tour in a part of the city they’ve never visited before. His favorite part of the walks is “seeing people’s jaws drop” when they witness the unique beauty of each DC neighborhood, especially in Southeast, where some visitors don’t initially expect it.

Fiona Clem, a tour guide who has been involved with WalkingTown for about eight years, is on board with the idea of experiencing new things. This year she is challenging herself by switching the focus of her Meridian Hill tour from the park to the mansions of the area. Clem relishes the details she’s learned as a participant on some of the tours led by others — for instance, the fact that Brookland was the childhood home of Pearl Bailey, an Emmy- and Tony-winning actress and singer who was named special ambassador to the United Nations and awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Or that a Civil War encampment called Fort Bunker Hill was built by the Union Army in the area where Catholic University now stands.

WalkingTown DC is led by folks with strong ties to the District. Most have lived here for years, and some grew up in the area. Since the event’s annual lineup emphasizes walking and biking tours, we asked some of the organizers how they like to get around town:

Steve Shulman, executive director of Cultural Tourism DC

Preferred method of transportation : Walking, with an emphasis on looking up because “too many of us keep our eyes on sidewalks.”

Fiona Clem, tour guide

Preferred method of transportation : Multimodal. Likes an urban environment, where she can “do it all.” Prefers walking over cars. Likes bikes. Loves trains.

Jim Byers, tour guide

Preferred method of transportation : As a collector of vintage automobiles, he’s a “car guy,” but he loves walking to “soak it all in.”

If you’re not able to make this year’s tours, there’s another option available year-round. Cultural Tourism DC has 18 Neighborhood Heritage Trails around the city, each with a suggested walking path with signs listing historic facts along the way so you can learn more about your community and neighbors. A new trail with six signs is in the works for the North Capitol and Eckington area.

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Anyone looking for a free audio walking tour should try the Cities Talking app. Here’s a link to the app store:

https://itunes.apple.com/gb/app/cities-talking/id1361967794?mt=8

[…] don’t forget that the nine-day WalkingTownDC event (featured in last week’s DC Lineup) will conclude this weekend, with tours from Anacostia […]

[…] organization that promotes the District’s historical legacy with projects such as its annual WalkingTown DC tours and the Heritage Trails, which are officially designated walking trails created in partnership with […]

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Arlington Unscripted

2 hour walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery including the Changing of the Guards, John F Kennedy, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and the Civil War graves

Capitol Hill Tour

Explore Capitol Hill with a small-group tour that includes reserved access to the US Capitol Tour and a guided tour of the Library of Congress

America Unscripted

Skip the line and see the original Declaration of Independence and US Constitution as you explore the National Archives and American History Museum

Highlights of the Smithsonian

See the top highlights of the 3 most popular Smithsonian museums in one tour with entry to the Air and Space, Natural History, and American History Museums

Lincoln Assassination Unscripted

Explore 18th century Washington, DC with the only Lincoln Assassination tour that goes inside Ford's Theatre and the Petersen Boarding House

Off Menu Union

Learn about the historic neighborhood of Swampoodle and sample local favorites on this food and drink tour - Private Group

Cherry Blossoms & National Mall

Experience the monuments of the National Mall up close with a 3 hour walking tour and see Washington's world famous Cherry Blossom Trees up close without the worry of being stuck in traffic.

Scandals of Capitol Hill

Discover the secrets of Capitol Hill on a fully outdoor walking tour. Unearth the mysteries of the Library of Congress and hear tales of intrigue and scandal in the hallowed halls of Congress.

unscripted tours

We assembled a team of the top guides, storytellers, and historians to arrange tours and experiences we could be proud of. We believe tours should be fun, accurate, and well thought out. So rather than copying the same formulas and passing out scripts, we allowed our guides to put together their own story based on what we would show friends when they are visiting.

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FULL - Activity: North Beach Walking Tour

Join us for a 1.5-hour walking tour of the North Beach neighborhood. Learn about the food, culture and history of San Francisco’s Little Italy, where early immigrants in the 1910s established the authentic Italian character that remains its defining quality. Discover famous landmarks, buildings and spectacular view of downtown and the unique charm of this vibrant neighborhood.

This tour is FULL. Space is limited to 25 people. No last minute walk-ups. 

Online reservation will start on April 6, 2024 until it is full. Meet at the North Beach Branch Library. The tour will start at 10:30 a.m. sharp and end at noon. Meet at the North Beach Library. 

Community & Neighborhood

Build connections with others in our local programs.

Learn more about local history.

This program is sponsored by Friends of the San Francisco Public Library.

Attending Programs

For questions about the program or help registering, contact  [email protected] .  All programs are drop-in (no registration necessary) unless otherwise noted.  All SFPL locations are wheelchair accessible. For accommodations (such as ASL or language interpretation), call (415) 557-4557 or contact  [email protected] . Requesting at least 3 business days in advance will help ensure availability.

Notice: This event may be filmed or photographed. By participating in this event, you consent to have your likeness used for the Library’s archival purposes and promotional materials. If you do not want to be photographed, please inform a staff person or the photographer. A sticker will be provided to help identify you so that we can avoid capturing your image.

Public Notice and Disclaimer

This program uses a third-party website link. By clicking on the third-party website link, you will leave SFPL's website and enter a website not operated by SFPL. This service may collect personally identifying information about you, such as name, username, email address, and password. This service will treat the information it collects about you pursuant to its own privacy policy. We encourage you to review the privacy policies of each third-party website or service that you visit or use, including those third parties with whom you interact through our Library services. For more information about these third-party links, please see the section of SFPL’s Privacy Policy describing Links to Other Sites .

The views and opinions expressed in programs presented by groups unaffiliated with SFPL do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of SFPL or the City.