About this experience
Explore the iconic presidential monuments on the National Mall while uncovering the intriguing stories behind them. This outdoor tour, lasting approximately 2.5 hours and covering 2.2 miles, begins at the Garfield Monument and concludes at the Lincoln Memorial. Discover the fascinating history of monuments dedicated to U.S. presidents, including Garfield, Grant, Eisenhower, Washington, and Lincoln. For those wanting to delve deeper, an extended option includes the FDR and Jefferson Memorials with an additional walk of 1.25 miles. This tour offers a unique perspective on America’s history and artistry.
- Outdoor tour lasting 2.5 hours, covering 2.2 miles on flat terrain
- Discover presidential monuments and their captivating backstories
- Extended version available to see FDR and Jefferson Memorials
- Suitable for ages 13 and up
At a glance
- Duration: 2 hr 30 min
Plan your experience
Set aside 2 hr 30 min for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
National Mall Guide for First Timers
A first-timer’s National Mall guide reveals the smartest route, best early stops, and one mistake to avoid before you set out.
Best Washington DC Hotels Near the National Mall
Only steps from the National Mall, these Washington DC hotels balance location, perks, and price in ways most travelers never expect.
National Mall Bike Tour Guide
Plan a practical National Mall bike tour with route ideas, bike rules, timing advice, accessibility notes, parking details, and guidance for self-guided or group rides.
What is included
- A guided walking tour with a presidential history expert (and former comedian)
Not included
- Private transportation
Itinerary and highlights
We'll walk part of the National Mall to talk about the assassination of James Garfield, which took place in the heart of DC!
Learn the story behind the Grant Memorial and take a few minutes to enjoy the impressive sculptures.
After getting the history of DC's newest presidential memorial, you'll have some time to take it in.
As we walk to the Memorial, you'll get the history of West Potomac Park and the construction of the Lincoln Memorial. Once we arrive, you can enjoy it at your leisure while your guide hangs around to answer any final questions.
We'll talk about the bizarre history of the Washington Monument as we walk up to its base. (This tour does not go inside the Washington Monument.)
Meeting and pickup information
- Meet in the middle of this traffic circle, by the Garfield statue. The guide will have a Walking Backward Tours sign.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Walking Backward Tours
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
How long is this experience?
Which guide languages are listed?
What ticket format is listed?
What ticket age bands are listed?
What accessibility information is provided?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
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