The Jefferson Pier
Welcome to Weird Memorials of Washington, a monthly blog post that examines the Capital’s odd and little-known monuments, memorials, and landmarks. This month, we’ll discuss the Jefferson Pier — part of our National Mall: Monuments and Memorials Walking Tour. The Washington Monument is one of the District of Columbia’s most recognizable and iconic structures. Towering…
Smithsonian Castle
Welcome to Design Spotlight, a monthly blog post that delves into the design of Washington’s architectural marvels and best kept secrets! Read along for an insider’s look at the conflicts, controversies, and personalities that have shaped our Capital City. This month, we’ll explore the Smithsonian Institution Building, better known as the Smithsonian Castle. In our…
The Japanese Pagoda
Welcome to Weird Memorials of Washington, a monthly blog post that examines the Capital’s odd and little-known monuments, memorials, and landmarks. This month, we’ll discuss the Japanese Pagoda, which is part of our Cherry Blossom Tidal Basin Walking Tour. Unfortunately, the cherry blossoms are best seen virtually this year, but we hope you’ll join us…
National Building Museum
Welcome to the second edition of Design Spotlight, a monthly blog post that delves into the design of Washington’s architectural marvels and best kept secrets! Read along for an insider’s look at the conflicts, controversies, and personalities that have shaped our Capital City. This month, we’ll explore the National Building Museum, former home of the…
The Temperance Fountain
Welcome to the inaugural edition of Weird Memorials of Washington, a monthly blog post that examines the Capital’s odd and little known monuments, memorials, and landmarks. This month, we’ll discuss the Washington Temperance Fountain, found on our White House & Pennsylvania Avenue tour! Henry Cogswell’s Temperance Fountain Henry Cogswell (1820-1900) had a singular mission: to…
Legacy of the Smithsonian
Welcome to the third edition of Design Spotlight, our blog series that delves into the design of Washington’s architectural marvels and best-kept secrets! Here you can learn about the conflicts, controversies, and personalities that have shaped our capital city—then take a tour to see the sites and hear the stories for yourself! In this edition,…
Embassy of Canada
Welcome to the inaugural edition of Design Spotlight, a monthly blog post that will delve into the design of Washington’s architectural marvels and best kept secrets! This month, we’ll take a look at the Embassy of Canada. The Embassy of Canada is the only diplomatic building along eastern Pennsylvania Avenue, the political heart of Washington…
STEM Experiences for Kids in DC
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) education has become a focus of learning for young minds. At DC Design Tours, we encourage the next generation of technical and creative thinkers on our kid-friendly walking tours! With a focus on the architecture, planning, and design of Washington DC, our tours bring the backstory of the Nation’s…
Montgomery Meigs: Visionary of Arlington Cemetery
The founding of Arlington National Cemetery followed a tumultuous four years as the country was embroiled in civil war. While many people and events helped to establish Arlington, none were more influential in the effort than Brigadier General Montgomery Meigs. During the Civil War, Meigs served as the Quartermaster General for the Union Army. He…