The "Madams of DC" Guided Walking Tour
Washington, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Unique perspective on DC's history
- Learn about the lives of prostitutes in Civil War DC
- Visit the former site of a notorious brothel
- Experience the scandalous parties hosted by the Odd Fellows
- Discover the remains of DC's most notorious Madams
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Duration 2.5 hours
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Experienced English guide
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Wheelchair accessible
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Private tour options available
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No entry fees required
Experience the untold history of Washington DC with the Madams of DC Walking Tour. Journey through the city's scandalous past as you explore the red light district that once lined Pennsylvania Avenue. Discover how these women shaped the Capital and even influenced affairs of government. From the notorious neighborhood known as Murder Bay to the site of a vicious rivalry between two high-paid Madams, every step of this tour reveals secrets and stories that are both shocking and intriguing. Stop for a drink at Hill Country BBQ, where the higher class working girls would attend grand parties with army officers. The tour culminates at the glamorous National Museum of the American Indian, the site of a notorious brothel. Don't miss this captivating tour that reveals a hidden side of DC's history.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours 30 minutes
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore the hidden history of DC's Madams on this unique 2.5-hour guided walking tour, revealing the past of Pennsylvania Avenue.
Included
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2.5 hours of fascinating information by an experienced guide. no entry fees necessary.
Excluded
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Refreshments at hill country bbq half-way stop.
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!
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500 , United States
End Point
Tour ends at the National Museum of the American Indian, which used to be the site of a notorious brothel. Smithsonian and Federal Center Metro Stations (Orange/Blue/Silver lines) are both only two blocks away.
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What to expect
Freedom Plaza
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.
Waldorf Astoria Washington DC
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.
15 minutes
The National Archives Museum
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.
10 minutes
IOOF Temple Building
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!
20 minutes
Admission Not Included
National Gallery of Art
The former site of Marble Alley, where two of DC's highest paid Madams had a vicious rivalry.
10 minutes
National Museum of the American Indian
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.
10 minutes
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Wheelchair accessible -
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Service animals allowed
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
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Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Guests must be able to be on their feet for at least 2 hours.
What our experts say
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Visit Hill Country BBQ for drinks! -
Check the schedule for tour dates.
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Wear comfortable shoes for walking.
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Nearby Metro stations: Smithsonian.
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Bring a camera for unique sights!
More About this Experience
Introduction
Explore the hidden secrets of Washington DC with the captivating Madams of DC Walking Tour. Unveil a hidden side of the nation's capital, as you dive into the fascinating world of the city's red light district during the Civil War era. This insightful tour sheds light on the women who shaped the city's history and even influenced affairs of government. Walk in their footsteps and discover the stories that history books often overlook.What to expect?
During this immersive 150-minute experience, you can expect to be transported back in time as you visit significant landmarks and hidden corners of the city. Led by an expert guide, you'll unravel the secrets of the red light district while hearing tales of the women who lived and worked in these brothels. From the notorious Murder Bay to the former site of the largest central urban Market, each step will immerse you in the vibrant past of Washington DC.Who is this for?
The Madams of DC Walking Tour welcomes all history enthusiasts, curious minds, and travelers who seek a unique perspective of Washington DC. Whether you're a solo adventurer, a group of friends, or a couple looking for an unconventional experience, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the city's lesser-known history. From history buffs to those with a general interest in exploring the offbeat aspects of a destination, the Madams of DC Walking Tour is sure to captivate a wide range of individuals.Why book this?
Uncover a side of Washington DC rarely explored by tourists as you embark on the Madams of DC Walking Tour. This experience delves into a compelling chapter of the city's past, offering a fresh and alternative perspective. Led by knowledgeable guides, who expertly weave together history and storytelling, this tour immerses you in the intriguing lives of the women who shaped the red light district during the Civil War era. Unravel the mysteries of the past and gain insights that few have the chance to discover.Good to know
The Madams of DC Walking Tour spans approximately 150 minutes, making it an ideal activity for those looking to explore the city's history within a manageable timeframe. The tour encompasses various notable landmarks, including Freedom Plaza, the Trump International Hotel, the National Archives Museum, Hill Country BBQ, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Museum of the American Indian. As you traverse these locations, you'll learn intriguing and lesser-known facts about the role of women in shaping the history of Washington DC.Reviews
Visitors who have embarked on the Madams of DC Walking Tour have praised its unique and engaging perspective on the city's history. They commend the knowledgeable guides for their ability to breathe life into the past, providing a captivating experience that leaves a lasting impression. Travelers appreciate how the tour offers a different lens through which to view Washington DC, shedding light on the often-overlooked stories of women who played a significant role in the city's development. Overall, the Madams of DC Walking Tour offers an enlightening and memorable exploration of the nation's capital.
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