Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge
Big Ben to Tower Bridge

What you'll do

Dance to the vibrant beat of a street bursting with color, flair, and the memory of famous musicians in a treasure trove of African American history, along iconic landmarks such as its heart-of-culture Lincoln Theater. Feel black history come to life past colorful murals celebrating icons like the Obamas and Prince, then see a famous chili bowl hangout, once a booming theater. Peek into the lives of the elite via Scurlocs's photography studio, then pose outside the first black-owned bank in DC. You're in the land of the greats, so see the childhood homes of jazz king Duke Ellington and pioneering educator Mary McLeod Bethune next or the first black chapter of the YMCA. Finally, see where a major newspaper was printed; and transformed into a casino.

Where you’ll go

Two-step along the cultural heart of DC, navigating along driving forces behind the city's art scene, like the grand Lincoln Theater, once stage to, get ready for it, jazz queen Ella Fitzgerald. "Dream a little Dream," pass larger-than-life murals celebrating black icons, then follow the titillating aromas to Ben's Chili Bowl. Next, skip past a photography studio where a memory of Mamie Eisenhower grins in the window, then it's off to the embodiment of the black business movement. Hop over to 13th Street, decorated with the home of jazz royalty, followed by a trip to the former headquarters of women fighting for a better future, and the inspiring YMCA founded by a former slave. Murray Brothers Printing Co awaits, but is that the twinkle of a casino we see? 

  • Private & 100% personalized tour

  • 3 hours

  • Matched to your ideal host

  • Walking tour (may use public transport)

  • Hosted in English (On request: French, Spanish)

  • Meet at your accommodation or a central location

Experience outline

  • Uncover the city’s treasure trove of fascinating black history, with the help of a knowledgeable host.
  • See the "Wonderful World" of the cultural heart of DC, once frequented by jazz royalty like Louis Armstrong and queen Aretha Franklin herself (be cool, be cool)
  • Drop a GPS pin at a chili bowl hotspot to return to - it’s world famous for a reason.
  • Along streets booming with color and culture, see a multitude of first-of-their-kind institutions, like DC's first black-owned bank.
  • See the homes of important black poets and civil rights activists whose names will forever be printed in history books.

Things to know

What’s included

  • Private and personalized experience
  • 3 hours with your host
  • Walking experience (if required, your host can suggest public transport or private taxi options)
  • Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

What’s not included

  • Food and drink
  • Tickets to any attractions
  • Transportation costs
  • Gratuities (optional)

Cancellation

  • Cancel 7 days before the experience for a full refund
  • Worry-free cancellation terms: book with peace of mind knowing that you can cancel for free up to a day before the experience and receive a full refund.

Meet our local hosts in Washington DC. One of them will tailor this experience to your wishes!

We’ll expertly match you to your best suited host based on your interests, personality and the experience vibe you’re after.

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