DC's Original Food and History Walking Tour
Active
3h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Discover DC's diverse culinary roots and history while we stroll and chat about the heyday of “Black Broadway” and the role this area played in during the Jazz Era. You’ll be surprised to learn how many household names had their start in the little clubs along this corridor.
Sample quintessential DC flavors while we reveal stories behind tucked away murals, sculptures, and the artists who created them. Learn about the Civil Rights riots that shaped the city and its landscape for years to come. Explore the architecture and evolution as it continues to change today.
Taste a variety of cuisines with flavors directly related to the history of this authentically DC neighborhood. U Street is an essential spot in DC and is not to be missed!
Please indicate any food allergies when booking.
A portion of each ticket sale is donated to Bread For The City, an organization who provides food, clothing, medical care, and legal and social services to reduce the burden of poverty for DC residents.
Available options
DC Food & History Walking Tour
U St Food Tour: 3 hour walking tour covering 2 miles in historic U Street and Shaw Neighborhoods. Our food tour goes to local stops for mouthwatering food and brews, and visits cultural and historic stops too!
What's included
Local/professional guide
Lunch
Donation to our local charity partner - enough to feed a DC resident in need three full meals
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Your tour takes place along the U St corridor, which is rich with DC flavors & history. Making stops at several local restaurants for tastings, which are plentiful, you'll hear about the evolution of the area, including events, historic venues, architecture, and street art. Over the course of the experience, you'll walk about 1.5 miles, enjoy plenty of food for lunch, and learn about this iconic, off the beaten path neighborhood that has played a significant role in DC and American history.
What's not included
Gratuities
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
116 reviews
5★
101
4★
7
3★
5
2★
3
1★
0
Tripadvisor
4.8
139 reviews
5★
119
4★
14
3★
3
2★
1
1★
2
Important information
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
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Vegetarian option available (not vegan), please advise at time of booking if required
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking - we cannot accommodate vegans
Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
Please note: We are not able to accommodate vegan diets or dairy allergies on this tour.
Meeting point
Please arrive 5 minutes prior to tour time and meet your guide outside of the restaurant. If you do not see your guide, please head inside and find your group.
Important notes
Thank you for your ticket purchase! We can't wait to taste the district with you!
• If there are any food preferences (vegetarian, etc) or food allergies that we need to know about, please shoot us an email at info@blueferntravel.com. Knowing in advance as that will give us time to prepare so we get the food just right! We will try our best to find appropriate alternatives at each stop, but may not be able to accommodate needs at every stop. Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate vegans. Thanks for understanding.
• Our tours will take place rain or shine - so please check the weather and dress appropriately: http://www.weather.com/weather/today/Washington+DC+20009:4:US
• Please arrive five to ten minutes early to allow time to check in and get settled. Your tour begins promptly at 11:30am
About Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and a vibrant city filled with iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and rich history. It offers a unique blend of political significance, cultural diversity, and architectural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers from around the world.
Top Attractions
National Mall
The National Mall is a large, open park in downtown Washington, D.C., featuring numerous iconic landmarks, monuments, and museums. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the city.
Historical/Park
Half day to full day
Free
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
This museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution and features a vast collection of natural history specimens and exhibits, including dinosaurs, gems, and cultural artifacts.
Museum
2-3 hours
Free
United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is the meeting place of the United States Congress and a symbol of the American democratic government. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol building and its grounds.
Historical/Government
1-2 hours
Free
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is a unique and interactive museum dedicated to the history of espionage and the world of intelligence. It features an extensive collection of spy artifacts and exhibits.
Museum
2-3 hours
$24.95 for adults, $14.95 for children (7-12)
Georgetown
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its charming streets, upscale shopping, and renowned dining scene. It is also home to the historic Georgetown University and the C&O Canal.
Historical/Shopping/Dining
Half day to full day
Varies by activity
Must-Try Local Dishes
Half-Smoke
A half-smoke is a type of sausage that is smoked and then grilled, typically served with chili, cheese, and onions. It is a D.C. classic and can be found at various local eateries, including Ben's Chili Bowl.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains pork and beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Crab Cakes
Maryland-style crab cakes are a local favorite, made with lump crab meat, breadcrumbs, and seasonings. They are typically served with a side of remoulade sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains shellfish, not suitable for those with seafood allergies
Eggs Benedict
A classic American breakfast dish consisting of poached eggs, Canadian bacon, and hollandaise sauce, typically served on an English muffin. The Founding Farmers restaurant is known for its delicious eggs Benedict.
Breakfast/Brunch
Contains eggs, dairy, and meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans
Sweet Potato Fries
A popular side dish in D.C., sweet potato fries are often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as aioli or ketchup. They can be found at many restaurants and food trucks throughout the city.
Snack/Side Dish
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly (ensure no butter or animal products are used in preparation)
Popular Activities
Hiking and biking in Great Falls Park
Rock climbing and rappelling in Theodore Roosevelt Island
Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Potomac River
Picnicking in the National Mall
Strolling along the Georgetown Waterfront
Visiting the United States Botanic Garden
Exploring the Smithsonian Museums
Attending a performance at the Kennedy Center
Best Time to Visit
March to May, September to November
These months offer pleasant weather and are ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings blooming cherry blossoms, while fall features beautiful foliage.
10-25°C
50-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish, French, Chinese, Amharic
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Eastern Time Zone (ET) (UTC-5:00, UTC-4:00 during daylight saving time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Washington, D.C. is generally a safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate and a strong police presence. However, as with any major city, it is important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety.
Important Precautions:
- • Be aware of your surroundings and keep valuables secure
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services, and always confirm the fare before starting your journey
- • Be cautious when approaching strangers or signing petitions or surveys
Getting there
By air
- Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport • 5 km from city center
- Washington Dulles International Airport • 42 km from city center
By train
Union Station
By bus
Union Station, Greyhound Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
The Metro system is efficient and reliable, with six color-coded lines serving major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
Adams Morgan
U Street Corridor
Capitol Hill
The Wharf
Day trips
Mount Vernon
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Mount Vernon is the historic estate of George Washington, the first President of the United States. The site features a museum, a mansion, and beautiful gardens, offering visitors a glimpse into the life of one of America's founding fathers.
Old Town Alexandria
10 km (6 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Old Town Alexandria is a charming historic district featuring cobblestone streets, colonial-era architecture, and a variety of shops, restaurants, and museums. It is a popular destination for shoppers, foodies, and history enthusiasts alike.
Great Falls Park
24 km (15 miles) from Washington, D.C. • Half day to full day
Great Falls Park is a scenic park featuring breathtaking waterfalls, hiking trails, and stunning views of the Potomac River. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, biking, and rock climbing.
Festivals
National Cherry Blossom Festival • Late March to early April
Independence Day Celebration • July 4
Washington, D.C. Jazz Festival • Late June
Pro tips
- Visit popular attractions, such as the National Mall and Smithsonian museums, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat
- Use public transportation, walking, or biking to get around the city, as traffic and parking can be challenging
- Purchase a multi-day pass for public transportation, such as the Metro or bus, to save money and time
- Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, such as spring (cherry blossom season) and summer (Independence Day)
- Research and compare prices for activities and attractions, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to save time and money
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
