Washington, D.C. , United States of America

The "Madams of DC" Guided Walking Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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About this experience

This tour is offered the first and third Friday of the month. Check website for exact schedule. All tours available for private tours.

The Madams in DC walking tour gives you a totally unique side of DC's history that you won't hear anywhere else. The Civil War completely transformed the capital, and turned Pennsylvania Avenue into a red light district lined with bawdy houses, taverns, theaters, and commercial ventures. Hard to imagine, now that it's lined with monolithic government buildings! You'll learn about how the women who worked in these brothels made their way in life, and even had an impact on affairs of government.

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The "Madams of DC" Guided Walking Tour

What's included

2 hours of fascinating information by an experienced guide. No entry fees necessary.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1 Pass by

Where Freedom Plaza is now once used to be the notorious neighborhood known as Murder Bay. As we walk through this spacious open area currently used for festivals and music events, you'll hear all about the taverns, gambling houses, and brothels popular with Northern Arm soldiers that used to stand there.

On the block where the Trump International Hotel, formerly the Old Postal Office building, currently stands, was the 11th Street strip, a subsection of the Red Light district on Pennsylvania Avenue where the Military Provost Guard harassed and arrested some of the raucous Madams in the neighborhood.

Stop 3

Continuing in our journey through time, you'll learn about the lives of prostitutes in Civil War DC and the part they played in society, as we pass by the former site of the largest central urban Market in DC.

We'll stop for a drink at Hill Country BBQ (*cost of beverage not included), across the street from the International Order of Odd Fellows Temple. The IOOF supported the arts, and the art of having a good time. It was common to see the higher class working girls walking into a grand party hosted by the Odd Fellows, on the arm of an Army Officer. Scandalous!

Stop 5

The former site of Marble Alley, where two of DC's highest paid Madams had a vicious rivalry.

Stop 6

An archeological dig discovered the remains of DC most notorious, and yet charitable, Madams. The tour ends at this, the most glamorous of DC's Civil War-era pleasure houses.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

9 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

65 reviews

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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

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Guests must be able to be on their feet for at least 2 hours.

Meeting point

The meeting point is in front of the Willard Center, next to the Occidental on Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Look for the guide wearing the costume!

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