Washington, D.C. Guide

Washington D.C. Historical Tours

Explore American history from founding to civil rights movements!

88+ tours
From $50
3-6 hours
Washington D.C. Historical Tours

Discover Washington D.C.'s rich American history - capital since 1790! Historical tours explore founding of the city, Civil War sites (Ford's Theatre where Lincoln shot!), civil rights landmarks (MLK Memorial, African American Museum!), presidential history, and political evolution. Visit Arlington National Cemetery, Ford's Theatre, Frederick Douglass House, historic Georgetown, and countless monuments telling America's story. Tours include expert historians, primary source locations, and comprehensive context. Learn about democracy, struggles, triumphs, and ongoing American experiment. It's living history!

Featured Historical Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for historical tours in Washington, D.C.

Historic Georgetown: History, Gossip, & Architecture Walking Tour
From $49
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Take a guided walking tour of a historic neighborhood older than DC itself. One of our guides (Canden Schwantes) wrote the book(s) on Georgetown. See the colonial charm of canals, cobblestoned streets, historic homes, & intriguing history. You will see and hear stories of: - Chesapeake & Ohio Canal - a waterway through the industrial part of the neighborhood. - Old Stone House - oldest residential building in the district, now a National Park site. - Homes of Jackie & John F. Kennedy - hear about their time in Georgetown before and after his assassination - 18th and 19th Century Homes - learn about the diverse, historic architecture of the houses and the stories of those who have lived here. Look for original firemarks, coal chutes, ironworks, and gas lanterns. - Hear stories of the Black Georgetown community, immigrants who shaped the neighborhood, and women who bucked social norms. - Georgetown University - see the famous campus and learn how the neighborhood influenced it.

4.9(317)
2h
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Historic Georgetown Architectural Walking Tour
From $48
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Established fifty years before the Capital, Georgetown began as a gritty port city on the banks of the Potomac River, described by Abigail Adams as a "dirty little hole". Despite its modest start, Georgetown is now home to palatial mansions, elegant cemeteries, stately churches, and a world-class University. We'll explore the highlights and secrets of DC's most exclusive neighborhood, discussing architecture, history, scandal, and more. By the end of the tour, we'll see Georgetown's full transformation in this rags to riches tale.

4.9(77)
2h
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Mount Vernon Historical Walking Tour with Transportation from DC
From $99
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Experience first hand where George Washington, America’s founding father lived, walked and dined. Guest would have the opportunity to explore the Mount Vernon property and get a guided tour of the mansion. On the way back at Old town Alexandria guests would have opportunity to see Christ church where George Washington worshiped, see and sit on a pew reseved for George Washington. Also guests would see George Washington’s town house.

4.2(21)
5h
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Historic Alleyways Guided Walking Tour of Washington DC
From $30
Free Cancellation

Check out one of DC's most unique features, less than a mile away from the National Mall, in the historic Shaw neighborhood, near the Convention Center. The Alleyways of DC served a distinct purpose as a city planning feature, but they also provided a hidden safe space where escaped enslaved people and the poor could find inexpensive housing and live their lives away from prying eyes. While city officials condemned life in the alleyways as dangerous, dirty and diseased, they were in fact a place where communities sustained each other and provided security. Tour is 1.5 hours with a halfway stop at La Colombe Coffee.

5.0(35)
1h 30m
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DC - Historical: At your leisure and your pace. Downloadable audiovisual tour.
From $14.99
👤Private Tour

Washington DC is the heartbeat of our nation, home to our capitol, our legislature, and a lot of really intriguing history. (They have the Smithsonian, after all.) If politics seem dry to you, we aim to change that—from the cloak and dagger intrigue of the Pinkerton Detective Agency to the infamous tragedy of the Lincoln assassination, we’ll examine the events and locations that changed our nation.

2h 14m
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Private 4-Hour Walking Tour Exploring Historic Georgetown
From $185
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

On this leisurely walking tour, be immersed in one of the most historically significant parts of Washington D.C. Delve into Georgetown's colonial and Federal period history with a private guide, who will bring to life stories of long-standing traditions, high society and world politics. Home to world-class shopping, rich history, five-star restaurants and one of the world’s best universities, Georgetown simply cannot be missed.

5.0(5)
3h
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George Washington Mount Vernon Half Day Historic Small Group Tour
From $88
Free CancellationNew

Step into the world of America’s first president with a curated half-day tour to George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Wander the historic mansion, beautifully restored gardens, working farm, and scenic riverside views as you discover how this estate shaped Washington’s personal and political life. With comfortable transportation, expert storytelling, and a focus on time-efficient exploration, this experience brings early American history vividly to life. Plus, the tour includes a reserved self-guided ticket to the National Air and Space Museum for the following day, letting guests continue their DC discovery at their own pace.

3h
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Explore Mount Vernon and Historic Old Town Alexandria
From $650
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Escape the city and travel back in time on a scenic journey to George Washington’s Mount Vernon Estate. This private 5-hour tour offers a deep dive into the life of America’s first president, followed by a relaxed drive through the charming streets of Old Town Alexandria. At Mount Vernon, enjoy: - Touring the restored 23-room mansion (Note: Only the New Room, servants’ hall, and kitchen are open during restoration.) - Strolling through the gardens, slave quarters, and outbuildings - Visiting the museum and education center for immersive exhibits - Reflecting at the tombs of George and Martha Washington Time permitting, enjoy a drive through historic Old Town Alexandria to see: - Carlyle House – A key site during the Revolutionary War - Spite House – The narrowest home in America - Christ Church – Where George Washington worshiped - Cobblestone streets and colonial landmarks This tour blends history, storytelling, and scenic charm for an unforgettable experience.

5h
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Private Transportation to Mount Vernon Historical Tour
From $525
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour🔥Likely to Sell Out

Enjoy the comfort of a private ride in a 13 passenger Mercedes Benz van. A professional chauffeur that is a native to the area and background checked will safely drive you through Washington DC to Old Town & Mount Vernon, Virginia. Vehicle is new and equipped with air conditioning / heating for your comfort. Bluetooth is available in case you would like to listen to music.

5h
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Why Choose Historical Tours in Washington, D.C.?

Capital Since 1790

Where American history happened - founding to present!

Ford's Theatre

Where Lincoln was assassinated - preserved and moving!

Arlington Cemetery

Nation's most sacred ground - JFK, Tomb of Unknown!

Civil Rights History

MLK Memorial, African American Museum - essential stories!

Types of Historical Tours in Washington, D.C.

Arlington Cemetery Tour

Visit national cemetery with changing of guard.

3-4 hoursArlingtonJFK graveTomb UnknownMoving

Ford's Theatre

Where Lincoln shot - theatre and museum.

2 hoursTheatreLincolnFreeHistoric

Civil Rights Tour

MLK sites, African American Museum, civil rights history.

4-5 hoursCivil rightsMLKImportantEducational

Comprehensive History

Full-day covering founding through present.

6-7 hoursAll erasComprehensiveExpert guideThorough

What to Expect on Your Washington D.C. Historical Tours

Duration

Arlington: 3-4 hours. Ford's: 2 hours. Civil rights: 4-5 hours. Full history: 6-7 hours.

Arlington Cemetery

JFK eternal flame, Tomb of Unknown Soldier, changing of guard ceremony!

Ford's Theatre

Theatre where Lincoln shot (April 14, 1865), Petersen House where he died!

Civil Rights Sites

Lincoln Memorial (MLK speech), African American Museum, important landmarks!

Presidential History

White House, monuments, memorials - presidential legacy!

Historic Georgetown

Oldest neighborhood (pre-D.C.!) with Federal architecture!

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Arlington changing of guard (Tomb of Unknown) every hour - time visit!

2

Ford's Theatre FREE but timed tickets - reserve online or arrive early.

3

African American Museum most important new museum - timed entry months ahead!

4

Many historic sites FREE - guides add crucial context.

5

Arlington vast - trolley tours ($15) cover more ground.

6

Respectful attire at Arlington - it's active cemetery.

7

Civil rights history powerful - budget time to process.

8

History everywhere in D.C. - plan multiple days for thorough understanding!

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Can you visit Arlington Cemetery?

A: Yes! FREE to visit. JFK grave, Tomb of Unknown Soldier (changing of guard every hour!), Arlington House. Active military cemetery - respectful behavior required. Metro accessible. Trolley tours ($15) available. 3-4 hours recommended. Moving experience!

Q:What is Ford's Theatre?

A: Ford's Theatre is where President Lincoln was shot April 14, 1865! Still working theatre, also museum. Petersen House (where Lincoln died) across street included. FREE timed tickets. 1-2 hours. Essential American history site!

Q:Can you tour the White House?

A: Yes but complicated! Free tours through Congressional office (submit request 3 months-21 days ahead). Limited availability, extensive background check. Self-guided tour of select rooms. Worth effort if interested! Otherwise, see from outside (Pennsylvania Avenue).

Q:What is the changing of guard?

A: Tomb of Unknown Soldier at Arlington has 24/7 guard. Changing ceremony every hour (half-hour summer). Precise, moving military ritual. FREE to watch. Time your Arlington visit for ceremony. 20 minutes. Respectful silence required.

Q:Is D.C. good for history enthusiasts?

A: BEST in America! Capital city, all branches of government, monuments, museums, historic sites. Free access to most. Plan minimum 4-5 days for thorough history experience. History everywhere - overwhelming in best way!

Q:What is Georgetown?

A: Georgetown is D.C.'s oldest neighborhood (founded 1751, pre-D.C.!). Historic Federal architecture, C&O Canal, upscale shopping/dining, Georgetown University. Beautiful for walking. 2-3 hours. Free to explore - dining expensive.

Q:How much do historical tours cost?

A: Many sites FREE! Ford's Theatre: Free timed tickets. Arlington: Free (trolley $15). Walking history tours: $50-90 (3-4 hours). Civil rights: $60-100. Full-day: $100-150. Mix of free sites and paid tours!

Q:When is the best time for historical tours?

A: Year-round! History always there. Spring/fall: Best weather. Summer: Hot/humid but peak season. Winter: Least crowded, cold but manageable. Many sites indoor. Plan around weather and crowd preferences!

Don't Miss the Perfect Washington, D.C. Experience

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Why Visit Washington, D.C.?

Iconic National Mall and historic monuments

World-class Smithsonian museums

Capitol Hill and political significance

Rich American history and culture

Beautiful architecture and memorials

Perfect blend of politics and culture

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Washington, D.C. enjoys four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid (75-90°F/24-32°C), winters are cold (30-45°F/-1-7°C), and spring/fall offer pleasant temperatures.

Best Months

March to May and September to November offer the best weather with mild temperatures, beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

December to February offers lower prices and fewer crowds, though with cold weather and occasional snow.

Plan Your Washington, D.C. Trip

Transportation Tips

Excellent public transportation with Metro rail and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the National Mall, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in Washington, D.C.

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

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Best Hotel Deals in Washington, D.C.

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