About this experience
Washington, DC, has not always served as the federal government's headquarters. Following the Revolutionary War, the Residency Act of 1790 allowed for the establishment of the federal government in New York City, Philadelphia, and finally Washington, D.C. Establishing the federal government's seat was difficult due to the undeveloped state of the area that is today known as downtown Washington, DC. Land needed to be surveyed, maps needed to be created, and plans needed to be created for the new US capitol. Given that the newly established federal government had incurred enormous debts during the Revolutionary War that needed to be paid off, these duties proved to be easier said than done. As we travel through historical sites that date from the period immediately following the Revolutionary War to the present, we will be reminded of the American tale.
At a glance
- Duration: 2 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 2 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Local guides to help you plan
White House Visitor Guide
Curious about touring the White House? Learn the key rules, hidden details, and one mistake that could end your visit before it begins.
Best Restaurants Near the White House
Find the best restaurants near the White House for historic atmosphere, French café fare, cocktails, group meals, breakfast, and polished occasion dining in downtown Washington DC.
Washington DC Hidden Gems Guide
Lose the monuments and uncover Washington DC’s hidden gardens, quiet museums, and waterfront secrets that make the city feel entirely different.
What is included
- Professional and knowledgeable local guide
- Thoroughly researched and accurate history
Not included
- Food and drink
Itinerary and highlights
Explore this historic park that has hosted numerous protests throughout its history and served as a racetrack, cemetery, slave market, and military encampment.
Learn about the Executive Mansion's past and mysteries, including its most recent renovation.
Uncover the truth of the Treasury, which was the first department to settle in with its 65 employees when the Federal government moved to Washington, DC.
Discover President's Park's fascinating and somewhat perplexing past.
Visit this location to learn the construction's secrets.
Learn about Enid A. Haupt, who supported numerous charitable endeavors such as cancer research, historic preservation, horticulture, and the arts and architecture, and is remembered with these fountains.
Learn about this unusual home that is notable both aesthetically and supernaturally.
Uncover the stories of the home that houses foreign dignitaries and heads of state that visit the US.
Learn how former president John F. Kennedy and his wife Jacqueline helped to keep this historic house standing.
Meeting and pickup information
- Meet your tour guide in Lafayette Square who will be wearing a white Junket t-shirt and holding a yellow flag. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- DC Ghosts By Us Ghost Adventures
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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What accessibility information is provided?
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
What is the cancellation policy?
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