The Mall Beyond the Museums Tour

Washington, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (2 reviews)

Included

  • inclusion
    An experienced tour guide who will share the lesser-known history of the national mall.

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Snacks

Meeting Point

The closest metro station is the Federal Center SW station on the blue, orange, and silver lines, or the Judiciary Square station on the red line.

Meeting point

Washington, DC 20004 , United States

End point

End Point

Tour ends at 7th and Pennsylvania Avenue, in front of the National Council of Negro Women Headquarters, near the Archives -Navy Memorial - Penn Quarter station on the Green and Yellow lines, or Gallery Place - Chinatown station on the red line.

Meeting point

633 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004 , United States

End point

What to expect

1
Capitol Hill

Tour begins in front of the Capitol Hill building, at the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial.

Duration 10 minutes
2

National Museum of the American Indian

At this stop, guests will learn about the local American Indian tribes that lived in the DC area, and the history of the brothel that used to exist on the land where the museum now stands.

Duration 10 minutes
3

National Air and Space Museum

This was the former location of the largest Civil War hospital in DC, where poet Walt Whitman used to visit with and help nurse injured soldiers.

Duration 10 minutes
4

Smithsonian Arts + Industries Building

The Arts and Industries Museum was designed by Adolph Cluss, a former Communist and German engineer who built cannons for the Union Army and later constructed buildings all over Washington.

Duration 5 minutes
5
Washington Monument

This is the half-way point in the tour, where guests will be able to visit the visitors center, use a bathroom, and purchase souvenirs.

Duration 15 minutes
6

Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center

This building stands at the epicenter of DC's largest 19th center red-light district, Murder Bay. Guest will hear about the brothels and Madams that used to rule this rough and tough neighborhood.

Duration 10 minutes
7
Old Post Office Pavilion

This tower of the Old Postal Museum is run by US Park Service and provides views of the city rivaling those of the Washington Memorial, without the wait! Guests will enter to take in the views and surely some stunning pictures.

Duration 10 minutes
8

The National Archives Museum

This was location of the first municipal market in Washington, DC, where over 600 stalls provided products to Washingtonian citizens for over 100 years before it was torn down to make way for the National Archives.

Duration 5 minutes
9

The National Council of Negro Women

This building held the 2nd headquarter of the National Council of Negro Women, founded by activist and suffragist Mary McLeod Bethune. The building is the first black owned building on Pennsylvania Avenue.

Duration 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

  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for participants with spinal injuries
  • Additional information
    Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Provided by Off the Mall Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Start at Capitol Hill for photos
  • icon
    Grab a snack at the Washington Monument
  • icon
    Visit the National Museum of the American Indian
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    Check out views from Old Post Office Pavilion
  • icon
    Wear comfortable shoes for walking

More About this Experience

Introduction

Immerse yourself in the rich history and hidden gems of the National Mall with the captivating "The Mall Beyond the Museums" Tour. While the National Mall is commonly associated with iconic museums and monuments, this tour offers a unique perspective that delves deeper into the lesser-known sites and stories that make this area so special.

What to expect?

Embark on a journey through the exterior of well-known landmarks such as Capitol Hill, the Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian Castle, while also exploring hidden gems that are often overlooked by visitors. Your experienced tour guide will regale you with fascinating historical tidbits and anecdotes that will provide a fresh and intriguing look at the National Mall.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history buffs, curious travelers, and anyone looking to discover a new side of the National Mall. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this experience offers a unique perspective that will appeal to those who enjoy off-the-beaten-path adventures and uncovering hidden stories.

Why book this?

Step off the typical tourist path and uncover the hidden history of the National Mall with "The Mall Beyond the Museums" Tour. This experience goes beyond the standard attractions, offering a more in-depth exploration of the area's rich heritage and lesser-known sites. With an experienced tour guide leading the way, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for the history and significance of this iconic location.

Good to know

During the approximately two-hour tour, you'll have the opportunity to take a break in front of the Washington Monument for a restroom stop and a chance to purchase souvenirs, snacks, or water. The tour concludes near the National Council of Negro Women Headquarters, providing convenient access to public transportation for your journey back.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced "The Mall Beyond the Museums" Tour rave about the insightful and engaging tour guide who brings the history of the National Mall to life. Visitors appreciate the unique perspective offered by this tour, as well as the opportunity to explore hidden gems and lesser-known sites that add depth to their understanding of this historic area. Don't miss out on this unforgettable journey through the heart of Washington, D.C.

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