Washington Walks

Washington Walks is a local walking tour company founded by Carolyn Crouch, and its aim is to help visitors and residents alike discover the history of the city's neighbourhoods and sights. Its tours go well beyond the obvious monuments, which makes it a good choice for repeat visitors or anyone who wants to see a different side of the capital.

The public tours are grouped by theme. Categories include African American DC, Georgetown, the National Mall, neighbourhoods, the evolving city, green spaces and a series linked to America's 250th anniversary. Recent and upcoming walks show the range: Rock Creek Cemetery at the end of October, a walk in Rock Creek Park in November, a tour on James Madison and James Monroe in Washington, a walk on the history of the March on Washington, a longer Washington Wilderness Hike after Thanksgiving and a holiday stroll in December.

In-person public walks follow a seasonal pattern, and the company notes that they resume in spring after the winter break. In the colder months it runs virtual experiences over Zoom, which are a useful way to plan a trip before you arrive. Private tours can also be arranged for families, small groups and organisations, with routes designed around your interests.

Prices, durations and meeting points are not shown on the home page, so check the details for the walk you want before booking. Book early for popular dates, especially in spring when visitor numbers in the city are at their highest.

Washington Walks suits curious travellers, history lovers, families with older children and residents who want to know their city better. The walks are a gentle way to see residential areas that most visitors miss, and the guides bring local knowledge to each route. Wear comfortable shoes and dress for the weather, as tours are outdoors. Follow the company's upcoming walks list on its website, as new routes are added through the season.

For questions, call the company or email it using the details on its website. If you are visiting for several days, combining one Washington Walks tour with a day on the National Mall gives a much fuller picture of the city than the monuments alone.