Walking Tours in Washington, D.C.

Washington D.C. is one of the most famous cities in the United States. It is crammed with historic and meaningful monuments, so there's plenty to see and do. This powerful capital city is also the federal district of the United States.

If you’re looking to get a proper feel of this vibrant city, a walking tour of Washington D.C. is the best way to do it. On a walking tour you can get a different perspective of the many attractions, learn exciting facts from knowledgeable guides and see how locals live.

Washington D.C has so much to offer, great food, art and entertainment, a rich culture and some of the best national parks and museums in the world. Experience the city's wonder with a walking tour in Washington D.C.

Up next, you can check out our guide on booking walking tours, one of the most captivating sightseeing options in Washington D.C.

What types of walking tours are available in Washington D.C.?

Numerous Washington D.C. walking tours occur in the city's various tourist hotspots. There's something to suit everyone's interest, which is why these popular tours are an excellent way to take in the city on foot.

Haunted DC Walking Tour on Capitol Hill

Visit the Capitol Building and discover the spooky side of one of the most haunted buildings in Washington, D.C.Numerous spirits are said to haunt the Capitol because of tragedies related to its construction.

If you're looking for a fun but different experience, this walking ghost tour could be just the thing for you. You'll be intrigued by stories of the feuding ghosts of past lawmakers and learn all about the curse on Capitol Hill.

There's plenty to see on this 1.5-hour-long walking tour, as you'll pass by the Library of Congress, the Supreme Court, the  Senate and the House office buildings. This wonderful adventure is the perfect way to wander along local streets and into one of America's most haunted neighborhoods.

The night-time walking tour starts at 8:30 PM, and the darkened streets add another level of spookiness to the tour. This tour only takes a maximum of 10 travelers.

Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour and Changing of the Guards

Learn more about America’s diverse history with a 2-hour-long walking tour through the Arlington National Cemetery. Arlington National Cemetery is the most famous cemetery in America; service members from the country's major wars and conflicts are buried here.

This walking tour ensures you're perfectly positioned to watch the ceremonial changing of the guards at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider, a memorial created to acknowledge unknown fallen soldiers. Afterward, you'll have the opportunity to visit the cemetery's most important gravesites and memorials, including the gravesites of  President John F. Kennedy and Jackie Kennedy.

Learn more about Arlington’s interesting history as you visit one of the cemetery's most important memorials, the USS Maine Mast Memorial. You can also check out the graves of Civil War soldiers and the final resting place of Audie Murphy, a Second World War soldier.

Walk among the thousands of uniform white headstones and discover a new side of the United States, as this place of remembrance will leave an impression.

Walking Tour and African American Museum

Get fascinating insights into three must-see iconic monuments: the White House, the Capitol building, and the Washington Monument. Spend some time exploring the National Museum of African American History. This tour is also an excellent opportunity to uncover more about the historical influence of African Americans in Washington D.C.

The tour starts outside the presidential abode, the White House, where you'll be amazed by the stories about presidents, their first ladies, and some of the most critical moments that have happened in America's most famous house.

Head out to the Capitol Building, which is the seat of the United States Congress. Classical Greek and Roman architecture inspired the building, and it is a superb example of neoclassical architecture.

Check out the iconic Washington Monument built to honor President George Washington. This impressive 169-meter-high marble obelisk towers over Washington D.C. dominating the landscape.

The last stop is the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Enjoy your private explorations as you take in the fascinating exhibits celebrating the African-American experience. You'll have to explore independently as this is not a guided tour, but a ticket is reserved for you at the museum.

What is on the itinerary?

Walking tours are a fantastic way to see and explore the city, but there are so many important and historic sites to visit in Washington D.C. you won't be able to cover them all in one day. Here are some of the most popular spots you'll see on a walking tour.

The White House

The White House is one of the most popular spots for tourists to visit. This impressive residence has 132 rooms, 35 bathrooms, and six levels. It has been the home of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800.

Getting an inside tour of the White House is difficult, but an outside view still conveys that level of gravitas. You'll be able to see the grounds and the house. If you want to know more, you can go to the White House Visitor Center.

Washington Monument

This imposing world-famous moment is a defining feature on the D.C. skyline and one of the country's most recognizable structures. It was built in the shape of an Egyptian obelisk to evoke the timelessness of ancient civilizations.

Made from American granite, marble, and bluestone, the Washington Monument took 36 years to build. It stands almost 170 meters high and weighs close to 100,000 tons.

Capitol Building

The U.S. Capitol Building is a powerful symbol of democracy and another popular tourist hotspot. Every year, some   3-5 million people visit the building. The Capitol Building is also one of the country's most architecturally impressive buildings.

Members of the Senate and the House of Representatives come together at the Capitol to create the country's laws, discuss and debate national policy and develop censuses. This stately building has an impressive 600 rooms and many kilometers of long winding corridors.

How much do walking tours in Washington D.C. cost?

Walking tours in Washington D.C generally cost between US$20 to US$100 per person, depending on the tour type. A longer, more in-depth tour with visits to more attractions will cost more.

The Haunted DC Walking Tour on Capitol Hill starts at US$30 for people over 18, and children younger than 18 will pay US$20 each. This walking tour is a fun experience for a large family or big group of friends as it takes a maximum of 15 people.

A walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery with a chance to see the changing of the guard's ceremony will cost you around US$60 for people between 13 and 19 years of age. Children aged 3 to 12 can expect to pay around US$50 each. This tour takes a maximum of 15 people.

Enjoying a walking tour around Washington D.C with a reserved ticket to the  African American Museum costs US$80 per person. This 3-hour-long walking tour goes to the White House, Capitol Building, and Washington Monument. A minimum of two participants are required for this tour.

What is included in the price?

Most walking tours in Washington D.C include only the tour and guide. If you'd like any additional extras like food or beverages, you’ll have to pay for yourself.

Where is the starting point for the walking tour?

Walking tours in Washington D.C. usually begin at a central meeting spot close to the vicinity of the tour. For example, the Haunted D.C. Walking Tour meets outside a Starbucks in Capitol Hill. The locations for walking tours are generally easy to find and close to the first tour attraction.

What is the typical duration of Washington D.C. walking tours?

Walking tours in Washington D.C last for between 1.5 hours to 3 hours, depending on the type of tour booked.

Are they wheelchair friendly?

Some walking tours are wheelchair accessible. However, specific tours, like the Arlington National Cemetery experience, are unsuitable for wheelchair users due to the numerous inclines and stairs. Double-check with the tour provider to ensure a tour is wheelchair accessible.

When is the best time for a walking tour in Washington D.C?

The best time for a walking tour in Washington, D.C., is in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy milder temperatures and avoid peak heat. The evening tours offer a unique perspective with illuminated monuments.

Starting the tour at the beginning of your stay provides an overview of key landmarks, enhancing subsequent explorations.

Travel tips

• Secure your spot by booking walking tours in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• You'll be exploring historical sites on foot! Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
• Bring a water bottle and some light snacks to stay energized during the tour.
• Protect yourself from the sun, bring sunscreen, wear a hat, and sunglasses, especially during outdoor tours.
• Capture the iconic sights, and ensure your phone is fully charged for maps and emergencies.