Explore Washington's Hidden History with the Madams of DC Tour
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Discover a side of Washington, DC, that most visitors never see with the "Madams of DC" Guided Walking Tour. This 2.5-hour journey takes you back in time to the Civil War era, revealing how Pennsylvania Avenue was once lined with lively taverns, theaters, and brothels, transforming the city’s reputation.
Learn about the women behind these establishments—how they made their way through society and even influenced political affairs. As you walk through historic neighborhoods, you'll hear stories of scandal, rivalry, and resilience that shaped DC’s hidden history.
Join us for an engaging exploration of a colorful chapter in Washington’s past—an experience that blends history, intrigue, and local lore all in one fascinating tour.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the "Madams of DC" Guided Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to explore and learn.
Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes. The tour is designed for ages 14 to 100, with youth aged 14-17, adults 18-64, and seniors 65-100. It’s also wheelchair accessible and accommodates infants in strollers.
Are there any costs included in the tour?
The tour includes 2 hours of engaging commentary from an experienced guide. There are no entry fees, but beverages at the stop at Hill Country BBQ are not included.
Where does the tour start?
Meet in front of the Willard Center, next to the Occidental on Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Look for the guide in costume!
Can I cancel my booking?
Yes. You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Is the tour available in languages other than English?
Currently, the tour is offered in English only.
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2.5 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- 2 hours of fascinating information by an experienced guide
- No entry fees necessary
Not included
- Beverages at Hill Country BBQ (cost not included)
Itinerary
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Stop 1
Where Freedom Plaza is now, once stood the notorious neighborhood known as Murder Bay. As we walk through this open space, now used for festivals and music events, you'll hear about the taverns, gambling houses, and brothels that attracted Northern Army soldiers.
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Stop 2
On the block where the Trump International Hotel now stands, was the 11th Street strip—part of the Red Light district on Pennsylvania Avenue. Here, the Military Provost Guard once harassed and arrested some of the neighborhood’s Madams.
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Stop 3
Learn about the lives of prostitutes in Civil War DC and their societal roles as we pass by the site of the city’s largest central market at the time.
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Stop 4
Enjoy a drink at Hill Country BBQ (*cost of beverage not included), across from the International Order of Odd Fellows Temple. The IOOF supported the arts and social gatherings, often hosting grand parties attended by high-class working girls and army officers—scandalous stories you’ll hear during the tour.
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Stop 5
Visit the site of Marble Alley, where two of DC's top Madams had a fierce rivalry that made headlines in their day.
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Stop 6
The tour concludes at the site of DC’s most notorious and yet charitable Civil War-era pleasure house, uncovered through archaeological digs—glamorous and scandalous all at once.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
The meeting point is in front of the Willard Center, next to the Occidental on Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Look for the guide wearing a costume!
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
You can cancel for a full refund if you do so at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure. Cancellations within 24 hours are non-refundable.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day before
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or low enrollment
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $31.80 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
