African-American Heritage Walking Tour of U Street in DC

Washington, D.C. , United States of America

African-American Heritage Walking Tour of U Street in DC

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About this experience

Meet your local Tour guide for an amazing evening walking tour of 2H and learn about African American history and heritage in D.C. Explore the U Street “Black Broadway” who was once truly the heart of Black culture in America, attracting locals and visitors for an unparalleled music and nightlife scene. It’s also the birthplace of celebrated DC hero, jazz musician Duke Ellington. Until the 1920s, the U Street Corridor was home to the nation's largest urban African-American community, this section of the city is as vibrant as ever, anchored by the lively 14th Street corridor to the west and the refurbished Howard Theatre bordering the Shaw neighborhood to the east, where a towering sculpture in reverence to Ellington stands. Food is eclectic and exciting. One of the best ways to experience food from soul food to Italian to the world-famous Ben’s Chili Bowl and uniquely, on the eastern end, you’ll the area known as “Little Ethiopia” for its concentration of residents from that country

Available options

2-Hour African American Heritage Tour in Washington DC

What's included

Licensed Tour Guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Experience during a 2-hour evening tour with a local tour guide, the nightlife of the neighborhood that was dubbed “Black Broadway”, the U Street known for its role in the African-American jazz scene, where theaters and clubs hosted Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, Pearl Bailey, Sarah Vaughn, and Jelly Roll Morton and many more.

WHILE MOST VISITORS FLOCK TO Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street for its signature half-smoke sausage, the beloved Washington, D.C., landmark also boasts a spectacular mural that celebrates notable Black Americans.

The mural has been changed multiple times since it appeared in 2012, and previously featured a large, smiling Bill Cosby, Barack Obama, Donnie Simpson, and Chuck Brown. That portion of the mural was removed after allegations against Cosby, who was a famous frequent visitor to Ben’s Chili Bowl, came to light. For a short period of time in 2017, the mural featured a tribute to the Washington Wizards in time for the NBA playoffs. Then, later in 2017, local artist Aniekan Udofia painted the mural that stands there today.

Stop 3

The first memorial dedicated solely to the Black troops who fought for the Union.
WHEN THE REBEL STATES REFUSED to rejoin the Union early in the American Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation and created a number of regiments in the Union Army and Navy filled with Black soldiers. This memorial in Washington, D. C. honors those units, who faced particular viciousness from the opposing army and discrimination from within their own.

More than 200,000 Black Americans filled the 175 regiments of the United States Colored Troops (USCT), comprising approximately one-tenth of the Union’s forces. It was largely through the persistence of the Black American community that Union policy on Black military service changed. Eventually, the 180,000 Black soldiers who served, including the 98,500 formerly enslaved men, provided a crucial service to the Union Army. Their names, and those of their white are inscribed on the Wall of Honor.

Throughout the decades, Black music stars have performed at this historic hub for music and the arts.
THE HOWARD THEATRE, KNOWN AS the first Black theater in America, was founded in 1910 in the Shaw neighborhood of Washington, D.C., which surrounds Howard University. It was founded to create a space for Black men and women to be entertained since they weren’t allowed into the other venues in the city at the time. Its inception was revolutionary and would go on to attract a range of Black musicians from Louis Armstrong to Kendrick Lamar.

Before the Howard Theatre gained its national reputation, it was known locally for its amateur open-mic style events and its battle of the band style contests. Prior to the Chicago jazz era and the Harlem Renaissance, the Howard Theatre was at the heart of musical exploration.

What's not included

Transportation

Food and drink

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Tripadvisor 1.0

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Please meet your tour guide at the meeting point: 1250 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA

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