Residences of the Presidentses: Lafayette Square

Power players want to be close to the action. And from the time D.C. was founded, that meant being close to the White House.

Lafayette Square

 

 

About the Route

The tour begins and ends in front of the DC Improv Comedy Club (1140 Connecticut Ave. NW). This tour is entirely outdoors, usually lasts between 2 and 2.5 hours and covers 2.3 miles. The route is flat.

 

What You'll See

People want to be close to the action. And from the time D.C. was founded, that meant being close to the White House! You'll check out Lafayette Square and the neighborhood of Foggy Bottom. You'll explore the homes and buildings where presidents lived, worked, partied, plotted and worshipped -- before, during and after their time in office. You'll see some of DC's oldest buildings and enjoy one of the most famous public spaces in the world. And don't forget the stories. Our guide will tell you about the building of the city -- and the British attempt in 1814 to unbuild it. There's a Real Housewives scandals, a Pennsylvania Avenue shootout, slaves fighting for freedom and lots more.

 

Presidents Included

You'll see homes and sites related to James Madison (and Dolley), James Monroe, Martin Van Buren, William McKinley, Theodore Roosevelt, Harry Truman, John F. Kennedy and Lyndon Johnson. Plus we'll see the famous "church of the presidents" and get a great view of the White House itself.

 

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 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.