Hidden Halls of Power: Secret History of the White House & DC

5.0 (2 reviews) Washington DC, USA
Duration2h
Free cancellationFull refund up to 24 hours before
TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted
LanguagesEnglish
Group sizeUp to 15 travelers

Overview

Washington, DC, has not always served as the federal government's headquarters. Following the Revolutionary War, the Residency Act of 1790 allowed for the establishment of the federal government in New York City, Philadelphia, and finally Washington, D.C. Establishing the federal government's seat was difficult due to the undeveloped state of the area that is today known as downtown Washington, DC. Land needed to be surveyed, maps needed to be created, and plans needed to be created for the new US capitol. Given that the newly established federal government had incurred enormous debts during the Revolutionary War that needed to be paid off, these duties proved to be easier said than done. As we travel through historical sites that date from the period immediately following the Revolutionary War to the present, we will be reminded of the American tale.

What's included

  • Professional and knowledgeable local guide
  • Thoroughly researched and accurate history
  • Food and drink

What to expect

  1. Lafayette Square
    Pass by
    Explore this historic park that has hosted numerous protests throughout its history and served as a racetrack, cemetery, slave market, and military encampment.
  2. The White House
    Pass by
    Learn about the Executive Mansion's past and mysteries, including its most recent renovation.
  3. United States Department of the Treasury
    Pass by
    Uncover the truth of the Treasury, which was the first department to settle in with its 65 employees when the Federal government moved to Washington, DC.
  4. Pass by
    Discover President's Park's fascinating and somewhat perplexing past.
  5. The Ellipse
    Pass by
    Visit this location to learn the construction's secrets.
  6. Pass by
    Learn about Enid A. Haupt, who supported numerous charitable endeavors such as cancer research, historic preservation, horticulture, and the arts and architecture, and is remembered with these fountains.
  7. The Octagon
    Pass by
    Learn about this unusual home that is notable both aesthetically and supernaturally.
  8. Blair House
    Pass by
    Uncover the stories of the home that houses foreign dignitaries and heads of state that visit the US.
  9. Decatur House
    Pass by
    Learn how former president John F. Kennedy and his wife Jacqueline helped to keep this historic house standing.

Meeting and pickup

Meeting point

Meet your tour guide in Lafayette Square who will be wearing a white Junket t-shirt and holding a yellow flag. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour.

End point

End your tour with a stop at the historic Decatur House.

Additional 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 poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Cancellation policy

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

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5.0 (2)
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