America’s Main Street: Pennsylvania Avenue Tour

Explore the President’s Front Yard and Walk America’s Main Street!

Pennsylvania Avenue has been host to inaugurations, protests, and parades throughout our Nation’s history. But the development of this grand boulevard, connecting the Capitol to the White House, is fraught with conflict and intrigue. Visit the White House grounds, walk Pennsylvania Ave, and learn how downtown Washington went from Murder Bay to America’s Main Street.

Starting in the front yard of the White House in Lafayette Square, we’ll discuss the history of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. From construction to destruction, fire, flood, collapse and renovation, you’ll learn how this famous address has changed over the last 220 years. Then, taking a look at other buildings along Lafayette Square, we’ll discuss the presidents, politicians, and power players of all kinds that have lived along this storied block. After exploring the White House neighborhood, we’ll stroll down Pennsylvania Ave, through a neighborhood originally known as “Murder Bay”. Past the hallowed halls and imposing facades of the Willard Hotel, Department of Justice, FBI Headquarters, and National Archives, we’ll wrap up at one of the oddest little memorials in DC.

What to Bring

Sturdy walking shoes, bottled water and comfortable clothes are recommended!

Where to Meet

• Meet your guide in Lafayette Square at the Andrew Jackson equestrian statue in the center of the park.
• GPS Address: 701 Jackson Pl NW Washington, DC 20005
• Your tour ends near the Archives- Navy Memorial -Penn Quarter Metro Station.

Sights and stops include:

• The White House
• Eisenhower Executive Office Building
• Blair House (President’s Guest House)
• The Willard Hotel
• Old Post Office Tower
• J. Edgar Hoover FBI Building
• U.S. Navy Memorial
• National Archives
• and more!

This tour is only available as a private tour. For large groups, driving tours, or custom itineraries, please contact us to book.