African-American Heritage Walking Tour of U Street in DC
Washington, US
68% of travellers recommend this
Highlights
- Experience the vibrant nightlife of U Street
- Admire the spectacular mural at Ben's Chili Bowl
- Explore the African American Civil War Memorial Museum
- Immerse yourself in the history of the Howard Theatre
- Discover the rich cultural heritage of U Street
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Duration: 2 hours
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Licensed Tour Guide
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Wheelchair accessible
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Public transportation nearby
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Moderate fitness required
Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Washington DC's African American community with our 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour. Join an enthusiastic local tour guide for an unforgettable evening walking through the U Street "Black Broadway," once the heart of Black culture in America. Discover the legendary venues that hosted jazz icons like Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Sarah Vaughn. Experience the lively 14th Street corridor and indulge in a diverse range of culinary delights, from soul food to Italian cuisine to the world-famous Ben's Chili Bowl. Explore the African American Civil War Memorial Museum and learn about the courageous Black soldiers who fought for the Union. Delight in the history of the iconic Howard Theatre, the first Black theater in America, and its pivotal role in shaping the city's musical landscape. Don't miss this opportunity to uncover the captivating history and vibrant spirit of this remarkable neighborhood.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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2 hours
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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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Small Group tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Discover the rich African-American heritage on a captivating 2-hour walking tour of D.C.'s U Street, the heartbeat of Black culture and music.
Included
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Licensed tour guide
Excluded
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Transportation -
Food and drink
Meeting Point
Please meet your tour guide at the meeting point: 1250 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
1250 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009 , United States
End Point
Please meet your tour guide at the meeting point: 1250 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
1250 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009 , United States
What to expect
U Street
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.
2 minutes
Ben's Chili Bowl Mural
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.
30 minutes
African American Civil War Memorial Museum
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.
30 minutes
Howard Theatre
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.
30 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 -
Public transportation options are available nearby
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Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
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Participants should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
What our experts say
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Visit Ben's Chili Bowl for a snack. -
Check out the Howard Theatre for shows.
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Explore 'Little Ethiopia' for unique cuisine.
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Bring comfortable walking shoes.
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Capture photos at the mural on Ben's.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Immerse yourself in the rich African American history and heritage of Washington DC with the captivating 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour. This evening walking tour takes you through the vibrant U Street, also known as the "Black Broadway," where the heart of Black culture once thrived. Led by a knowledgeable local tour guide, you'll discover the fascinating stories behind this historical neighborhood that attracted legendary artists such as Duke Ellington, Cab Calloway, and Sarah Vaughan.What to Expect?
During this two-hour tour, you can expect to delve into the lively nightlife scene that marked the U Street Corridor and its contribution to African-American jazz. As you explore, you'll encounter the remnants of influential theaters and clubs that hosted unforgettable performances by renowned musicians. Moreover, you will have the opportunity to admire the spectacular mural at Ben's Chili Bowl, paying homage to notable Black Americans who have made significant contributions to society. Another highlight of the tour is a visit to the African American Civil War Memorial Museum, where you'll gain insight into the bravery and sacrifices of Black troops during the American Civil War. The experience concludes at the historic Howard Theatre, the first Black theater in America, which once pulsated with the rhythm of musical exploration.Who is this for?
The 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour is designed for anyone eager to discover the hidden gems of African American history in the nation's capital. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a lover of jazz music, or simply curious about the cultural legacy of Washington DC, this tour offers an inclusive experience that caters to all. From solo travelers to groups of friends, everyone will find value in exploring the stories and sites that shaped the Black community in the U Street Corridor.Why book this?
Embark on this tour to gain a profound understanding of African American heritage and how it has shaped the cultural fabric of America. Led by a local tour guide, you'll have the opportunity to truly connect with the history and stories behind each landmark you visit. The tour's focus on nightlife, jazz, and theater ensures an engaging and immersive experience for all participants. By booking this tour, you contribute to the preservation of African American history and culture, ensuring that their stories continue to be told and celebrated.Good to know
During the tour, make sure to wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking through the lively streets of the U Street Corridor. The meeting point is at 1250 U St NW, Washington, DC, and the tour lasts for approximately two hours. Along the way, don't miss the chance to savor the eclectic and exciting food scene, ranging from soul food to Italian cuisine, and be sure to visit the famous Ben's Chili Bowl, a true culinary institution. Additionally, keep your camera handy to capture the vibrant murals that adorn the neighborhood and the iconic Howard Theatre, a testament to the pioneering spirit of Black musicians.Reviews
People who have taken the 2-Hour African American Heritage Tour rave about the insightful stories shared by the knowledgeable tour guides. Travelers found the tour to be both educational and entertaining, providing a deeper understanding of African American history and its significance in Washington DC. Many reviewers appreciated the emphasis on jazz music and nightlife, as well as the visit to the African American Civil War Memorial Museum, which paints a vivid picture of the struggles and achievements of Black soldiers. Overall, the tour is praised for its ability to evoke emotions and spark a sense of pride in African American heritage.
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