Explore DC's Gilded Age as you visit presidential homes in one of the city's most stunning residential areas.
About the Route
The tour begins and ends near the south entrance of the Dupont Circle Metro, in front of the Krispy Kreme sign visible from the circle. This tour is entirely outdoors, usually lasts 2.5 hours and covers 2.1 miles. There are some mild uphill and downhill sections and one set of stairs along the route.
What You'll See
Today, Dupont Circle and Kalorama are two of DC's most beautiful neighborhoods. But in the early 20th century, they were also the heart of a rapidly growing capital city. Industrialists, diplomats, newspaper publishers, government officials and elected leaders all flocked to the area - "Millionaire's Row" is where people in power came to party! This tour takes you through those neighborhoods, with stops at the residences of eight different presidents. You'll find out what brought each POTUS to the area and hear stories about their lives: affairs, bitter rivalries, power plays, great triumphs, tragic downfalls and second chances. We've even got a good-old-fashioned anarchist bombing in the mix.
Presidents Included
You'll see homes and sites related to Teddy Roosevelt, W.H. Taft, Woodrow Wilson, Warren G. Harding, Calvin Coolidge, Herbert Hoover, Franklin D. Roosevelt, Dwight D. Eisenhower and Ronald Reagan. Before you ask, we can't walk past Obama's house in Kalorama - the Secret Service is pretty clear on that. (Sorry!)
Recommended Audience
This tour is best for people 13 and up. Some stories have mature content, plus it helps to have a little background in U.S. history.
What to Bring / About the Route
Customers may want to bring bottled water and (in warmer months) sunscreen and bug repellant. Expect to be on your feet for at least two hours. There is some uphill walking and one staircase along the way. There are no public restrooms along the route, so plan ahead.
Weather Policy
If the forecast calls for heavy rain or other inclement weather, customers will be contacted before the start of the tour about possible rescheduling.