Hottest Tickets in Town

Abraham Lincoln was a crucial figure in American history, and many of the key events of his life and presidency took place right here in the heart of Washington, D.C. Although much of the city's chara... [more+]

Abraham Lincoln was a crucial figure in American history, and many of the key events of his life and presidency took place right here in the heart of Washington, D.C. Although much of the city's character from the Civil War era is gone, many sights still evoke Lincoln's life and times -- and one of the expert guides from Washington Walks will show them to you. The busy Washington streets are not that different today than they would have been in the 1860s, when the president himself made his way through them -- except that 21st-century Washingtonians benefit from sidewalks and paved thoroughfares rather than dirt pathways. In Lincoln's day the area would have often been a muddy slog. As you walk on this two-hour guided tour, hear the fascinating story of the first American leader to be assassinated. [less-]

The hit musical "Hamilton" made history on Broadway and now it's time to discover the Ten Dollar Founding Father's connections to the nation's capital. On this Washington Walk, you'll see sites associ... [more+]

The hit musical "Hamilton" made history on Broadway and now it's time to discover the Ten Dollar Founding Father's connections to the nation's capital. On this Washington Walk, you'll see sites associated with the historic moments depicted in the musical, and learn about "the Lancelot of the revolutionary set," Marquis de Lafayette and D.C.'s own association with the "Ten Duel Commandments." Fittingly enough, you'll finish the political and musical journey close to The Hamilton restaurant and bar, where you can quench your thirst with a Hamilton Mule and the toast the orphan immigrant-turned-legendary historical figure. [less-]

A cultural historian and certified tour guide leads this two-hour walking tour of the murals and historic sites in the Greater U Street Historic District. Once called a "city within a city," this neig... [more+]

A cultural historian and certified tour guide leads this two-hour walking tour of the murals and historic sites in the Greater U Street Historic District. Once called a "city within a city," this neighborhood became a hub of commercial, intellectual and cultural life for African Americans at the turn of the 20th century. You'll visit sites where important black leaders in the civil-rights movement, education, law and music made history, and you'll see the murals that artists painted in remembrance of that heritage. You'll also learn about those artists, the stories they tell about the neighborhood and the DC organizations who work to facilitate the creation and placement of these beautiful works of art. [less-]

“Their devotion, their valor and their sacrifice will live forever in the hearts of their grateful countryman,” declared General of the Armies John J. Pershing, referring to the over 100,000 Ameri... [more+]

“Their devotion, their valor and their sacrifice will live forever in the hearts of their grateful countryman,” declared General of the Armies John J. Pershing, referring to the over 100,000 Americans who died in World War I. Arlington Cemetery is the final resting place for not only their revered leader, General Pershing, but also for a lone soldier whose anonymous, though not forgotten, death prompted erection of one of the cemetery’s most powerful sites: The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Join this walk to pay tribute to them and to heroic battlefield nurses, the “Buffalo Soldiers” who were transformed into “Doughboys,” and thousands who died near the Forest of Argonne. Honoring the sites associated with World War I affords the opportunity to see both the most famous and least visited places in our national burial ground. Be prepared to walk long distances. [less-]

They founded organizations, sponsored legislation, blazed trails and suffered trials. For generations, women living and working in Washington, D.C. have defied expectations and surmounted discriminati... [more+]

They founded organizations, sponsored legislation, blazed trails and suffered trials. For generations, women living and working in Washington, D.C. have defied expectations and surmounted discrimination to increase equality, freedom and prosperity for their fellow citizens. "Angel of the Battlefield" Clara Barton inspired a world-wide humanitarian movement. Dorothy Height devoted 40 years to supporting African-American women and girls. Frances Perkins not only became the first woman to serve as a cabinet secretary, she was the principal architect of President Franklin Roosevelt's New Deal. See the sites downtown and around the U.S. Capitol where they and others made their marks and follow history along Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, where thousands of suffragists first marched for equality on March 3, 1913. The walk will conclude at the Belmont-Paul Women's Equality National Monument, home to the National Women's Party for nearly 90 years and the epicenter of the struggle for women's rights. [less-]

Big Bus Tours takes its 48-hour "hop-on, hop-off" tour through the nation's capital, allowing you to choose from any of four different routes to customize your sightseeing experience. Plus, you'll get... [more+]

Big Bus Tours takes its 48-hour "hop-on, hop-off" tour through the nation's capital, allowing you to choose from any of four different routes to customize your sightseeing experience. Plus, you'll get included admission to Madame Tussauds and your choice of a Potomac cruise or admission to CEB Tower's newly opened observation deck. Hop off the bus to take a closer look at landmarks, and hop back on when you're ready to continue your journey. The bus includes free wi-fi so you can stay connected as you go. The Red Loop takes you with live-guided commentary around the National Mall, to the top tourist sites that define D.C., including the major Smithsonian Museums and the Nation’s famous monuments and memorials. The Blue Loop crosses the Potomac to explore Arlington National Cemetery and Pentagon City, with recorded commentary in eight languages. The Yellow Loop travels through picturesque Georgetown, with pre-recorded English commentary. [less-]

This tour takes visitors through the political core of Washington, D.C. -- from the original L'Enfant city plan to the tumultuous construction of the Capitol and grounds, the rise of the magnificent B... [more+]

This tour takes visitors through the political core of Washington, D.C. -- from the original L'Enfant city plan to the tumultuous construction of the Capitol and grounds, the rise of the magnificent Beaux Arts Library of Congress and imposing Supreme Court, and into the present day. Prolific designers like Thomas Jefferson, Robert Mills, Frederick Law Olmsted and Daniel Burnham will feature prominently. Controversy, chaos and red tape abound in this walking tour from DC Design Tours, a treat for architecture and history enthusiasts. [less-]

Washington's best loved museums line the East side of the National Mall, laid out between the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. Called the "Nation's Attic," the Smithsonian Institution is ... [more+]

Washington's best loved museums line the East side of the National Mall, laid out between the Capitol Building and the Washington Monument. Called the "Nation's Attic," the Smithsonian Institution is one of the largest museum complexes in the world, with 30 million annual visitors, 19 museums, and over 150 million items in the collection. Each unique building is an architectural landmark all it's own. On this tour, explore how the Smithsonian Institution has shaped the fabric of the National Mall since 1855. [less-]

Venture into some of Washington's most diverse residential areas in this off-the-beaten-path tour of the Columbia Heights and Adams Morgan neighborhoods. From D.C. socialites to civil rights activists... [more+]

Venture into some of Washington's most diverse residential areas in this off-the-beaten-path tour of the Columbia Heights and Adams Morgan neighborhoods. From D.C. socialites to civil rights activists, Northwest Washington has been host to castles, embassies, temples, protests and almost the Lincoln Memorial. This walking tour begins at D.C.'s Meridian Hill Park. [less-]

Some say that D.C. is America's Paris -- with similar urban layouts, the Capitol's streets were actually designed by French-born American architect Pierre Charles L'Enfant. Experience this architectur... [more+]

Some say that D.C. is America's Paris -- with similar urban layouts, the Capitol's streets were actually designed by French-born American architect Pierre Charles L'Enfant. Experience this architecture, along with grandiose mansions and embassies, on a walking tour of Embassy Row and Dupont Circle. On this two-hour adventure, you'll gaze at some of the most pristine properties in D.C. ranging in styles from Neoclassical to Beaux-Arts. At the same time, you'll learn how the events that took place inside these places contributed to the nation's development. Discussed sites include the Spanish Steps, the Woodrow Wilson House, the Sheridan Circle, Brewmaster's Castle and plenty more. [less-]

Raise a pint to the interwoven history of the District of Columbia and American beer on this guided walking tour, which kicks off with an exploration of the stately homes of Dupont Circle's Embassy Ro... [more+]

Raise a pint to the interwoven history of the District of Columbia and American beer on this guided walking tour, which kicks off with an exploration of the stately homes of Dupont Circle's Embassy Row. You’ll sample craft brews at multiple bars and pay homage to the trailblazer of DC beer, Christian Heurich. His home, Heurich House aka The Brewmaster’s Castle, provides the perfect backdrop for the fascinating story of the decline and recent revival of American beer, thanks to local breweries. Your friendly and knowledgeable guide will escort you back to the nearest Metro station and bid farewell … or stick around for another beer if the party continues. [less-]

Travel through time and explore U.S. history with a musical twist at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Learn about the origins and controversies of America's national anthem,... [more+]

Travel through time and explore U.S. history with a musical twist at the National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. Learn about the origins and controversies of America's national anthem, discover the evolution of spiritual music into blues, jazz, rock n' roll, hip-hop and R&B, and live out your dream of becoming a hip-hop DJ by learning a funky beat -- all with your local guide by your side! [less-]

Embrace your flannel shirts, infinity scarves, and love for all things pumpkin as you sail along the Washington D.C. waters on National Ferry Corporation's Fall Fest River Cruise. Enjoy a cider, pumpk... [more+]

Embrace your flannel shirts, infinity scarves, and love for all things pumpkin as you sail along the Washington D.C. waters on National Ferry Corporation's Fall Fest River Cruise. Enjoy a cider, pumpkin beer, or sip on a glass of wine or a fall cocktail. Our friendly bartenders will be serving up drinks at our full bar all cruise long. This 90-minute cruise features seasonal drinks and a full bar/concession area with snacks and beverages available for purchase. The cruise departs from and returns to the Washington Marina on the Southwest Waterfront, a short walk from The Wharf and the Tidal Basin. No on-site parking available, please arrive extra early if you plan to drive to find parking in the area. [less-]

Set sail for an afternoon of swashbuckling fun as you and your little mateys search for adventure and booty. This family cruise takes place aboard the Boomerang Pirate Ship, which holds the city's tre... [more+]

Set sail for an afternoon of swashbuckling fun as you and your little mateys search for adventure and booty. This family cruise takes place aboard the Boomerang Pirate Ship, which holds the city's treasure. But the keys to the chest have been stolen by rascally scallywags, and your job is to recover them. You'll search the waterways of the Potomac, armed with water cannons and pirate bravado while having fun playing games, dancing and getting your face painted. Little buccaneers and their parents will love this creative cruise idea, complete with on-board snacks and drinks for purchase, and will be sent home with treasure and souvenirs after enjoying an afternoon on the water seeing the sights in a whole new way. [less-]

Established 50 years before Washington, D.C. itself, Georgetown originated as a gritty port city on the banks of the Potomac River. Despite its modest beginnings, Georgetown eventually came to play ho... [more+]

Established 50 years before Washington, D.C. itself, Georgetown originated as a gritty port city on the banks of the Potomac River. Despite its modest beginnings, Georgetown eventually came to play host to some of the most expensive and desirable property in the District. Home to palatial mansions, elegant cemeteries, stately churches, and a world-class university, join DC Design Tours to explore the highlights of D.C.'s most exclusive neighborhood, with a focus on architecture and urban planning. [less-]

Kick back, relax, order a drink, chill out to some music and enjoy the enticing views of the nation's capital on this one-hour Potomac River cruise. You can stroll the outdoor decks or take in the sig... [more+]

Kick back, relax, order a drink, chill out to some music and enjoy the enticing views of the nation's capital on this one-hour Potomac River cruise. You can stroll the outdoor decks or take in the sights from the climate-controlled interior cabins on one of two afternoon day trips. Perfect for a weekend gathering with friends, an outing with the kids or an intimate date, this cruise offers smooth sailing as you glide past the famous historic landmarks of our nation's capital. There's a full on-board bar with snacks and drinks for purchase, and the ship departs from and returns to the Washington Marina on the Southwest Waterfront, a short walk from The Wharf and the Tidal Basin. [less-]

By day, Capitol Hill is one of Washington, D.C.'s busiest neighborhoods, with locals, tourists and powerbrokers alike strolling the streets of this historic area. But as the sun sets, a different, eer... [more+]

By day, Capitol Hill is one of Washington, D.C.'s busiest neighborhoods, with locals, tourists and powerbrokers alike strolling the streets of this historic area. But as the sun sets, a different, eerier vibe starts to take over. Who is that shadowy sentry in front of the Supreme Court? What's the story behind the "whisper spot" in the Capitol? And why should you never step foot in Statuary Hall on New Year's Eve? You'll find out the answers to these questions and more on this decidedly unnerving -- and historical -- walk. [less-]

Big Bus Tours' buses take you all around the nation's capital, allowing you to choose from any of three different routes to customize your sightseeing experience, also including admission to Madame Tu... [more+]

Big Bus Tours' buses take you all around the nation's capital, allowing you to choose from any of three different routes to customize your sightseeing experience, also including admission to Madame Tussauds. Hop off the bus to take an in-depth look at any of the capital's most famous landmarks, and just hop back on when you're ready to continue your journey. The Red Loop is the official tour of the National Mall, and includes stops at the major Smithsonian Museums and the Nation’s famous monuments and memorials. The Blue Loop crosses the Potomac River (just like George Washington!) and introduces you to Arlington National Cemetery and Pentagon City. The Yellow Loop explores picturesque Georgetown. [less-]

Join Meghan Hanson, certified international tour director, for an insider private tour of the Impressionism Collection at Washington, D.C.'s National Gallery of Art. She'll walk you through over 30 pa... [more+]

Join Meghan Hanson, certified international tour director, for an insider private tour of the Impressionism Collection at Washington, D.C.'s National Gallery of Art. She'll walk you through over 30 paintings, hitting museum highlights, historical show stoppers, and fan favorites of Impressionist painting. Behind each piece you will get a back story that will bring you more insight into the why these pieces have been chosen to represent Impressionism. [less-]

Before the Great Depression hit, Washington DC's Embassy Row was a playground for the rich. The area's luxe, lavishly decorated mansions, built in the late 19th century, were home to such events as a ... [more+]

Before the Great Depression hit, Washington DC's Embassy Row was a playground for the rich. The area's luxe, lavishly decorated mansions, built in the late 19th century, were home to such events as a $1 million birthday for a dog, a spendthrift who carried the curse of the Hope Diamond, parties boasting two thousand guests, an iconic host whose personal life was grist for the gossip columns and much more. Learn about the high drama, fortunes and misfortunes during "Sex, Scandal and Sinners Along Embassy Row." In this informative, 90-minute walking tour, Capital Photo History Tours will share insider information about the scandals, architecture and history of this tony area. [less-]