A Private Exploration of Washington's Iconic Landmarks

Washington, D.C. , United States of America

A Private Exploration of Washington's Iconic Landmarks

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About this experience

Stand on the shoulders of giants – with this private Washington experience. The political capital of the world. Jump into the shoes and minds of the politicians that built America. Visit the Memorial of Thomas Jefferson – primary draftsman of the Declaration of Independence. Walk through the history of the United States one decade at a time. Discover the ins and outs of every memorial. What do the four open-air rooms represent at FDR’s Memorial? Visit the great man who helped abolish segregation in the 1960s. Relearn the history of the fallen soldiers in the Korean War. And embrace the feeling of unity at the WW2 Memorial. With our knowledgeable guide, you will breathe the American past. And take home the history and the memories of Washington.

Available options

English Guided Tour

Chinese Guided Tour

Spanish Guided Tour

German Guided Tour

French Guided Tour

What's included

Local Professional Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a unique monument, built in a way to resembles the Pantheon in Rome. In the middle of the monument, the bronze statue of Jefferson stands tall and strong, and on the walls, there are selections from Jefferson’s writings engraved.

George Mason Memorial was built not far away from Thomas Jefferson Memorial in order to commemorate one of the Founding Fathers. Visitors can sit down on a stone bench, right next to a larger-than-life bronze statue of George Mason.

Stop 3

The national memorial of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd president of the United States, is located about halfway between the Lincoln Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial in Washington, DC. It represents a statue of Roosevelt sitting in a wheelchair greeting visitors and reminding them of the man who refused to let a disability stop him.

Stop 4

The national memorial of Martin Luther King Jr. is located in West Potomac Park. The centerpiece of the memorial is an almost 27-meter statue of Dr. King, and surrounding the statue of Dr. King is a 446-meter long Inscription Wall, which features 14 quotes from King’s speeches, sermons, and writings.

Stop 5

The Korean War Memorial commemorates the sacrifices of the Americans who served in the U.S. armed services during the three years of the Korean War. It consists of the Mural Wall, United Nations Wall, Pool of Remembrance, Memorial Wall and the Column - 19 stainless steel statues representing the service members who fought in the war

Stop 6

Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. The building is modeled in the style of a Greek temple and has an imposing sculpture of Lincoln facing east toward a long reflecting pool.

Stop 7

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is devoted to service members of the U.S. armed forces who fought in the Vietnam War. It has several objects, but the most impressive one is a huge wall listing the names of the more than 58,000 servicemen and women who lost their lives during the war.

Stop 8

National World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. was built to honor both to the Americans who served in World War II and the ones who supported the war effort at home. The memorial is shaped as an elliptical plaza with 56 granite pillars and a pool with fountains and water jets.

Available languages

Guide guide

DE EN ZH-CN FR ES

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

The gates of the the White House

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