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Madams of DC Walking Tour

Overview
This tour is offered the first and third Friday of the month. Check website for exact schedule. All tours available for private tours.

The Madams in DC walking tour gives you a totally unique side of DC's history that you won't hear anywhere else. The Civil War completely transformed the capital, and turned Pennsylvania Avenue into a red light district lined with bawdy houses, taverns, theaters, and commercial ventures. Hard to imagine, now that it's lined with monolithic government buildings! You'll learn about how the women who worked in these brothels made their way in life, and even had an impact on affairs of government.
City: Washington DC
Wed 30 Apr
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You can choose the date already on the booking website
Starting at $30.00
Wed 30 Apr
Starting at $30.00
Make a reservation
What's Included
2.5 hours of fascinating information by an experienced guide. No entry fees necessary.
Additional Info
  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Service animals allowed
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Guests must be able to be on their feet for at least 2 hours.
What To Expect
1
Freedom Plaza
Where Freedom Plaza is now once used to be the notorious neighborhood known as Murder Bay. As we walk through this spacious open area currently used for festivals and music events, you'll hear all about the taverns, gambling houses, and brothels popular with Northern Arm soldiers that used to stand there.
2
The National Archives Museum
Continuing in our journey through time, you'll learn about the lives of prostitutes in Civil War DC and the part they played in society, as we pass by the former site of the largest central urban Market in DC.
3
National Gallery of Art
The former site of Marble Alley, where two of DC's highest paid Madams had a vicious rivalry.
4
National Museum of the American Indian
An archeological dig discovered the remains of DC most notorious, and yet charitable, Madams. The tour ends at this, the most glamorous of DC's Civil War-era pleasure houses.
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Traveler Photos
Reviews (68)
tjacob21
Aug 2020
The Ladies of Georgetown tour was a great way to explore the Georgetown area. Katie talks about the lesser known figures that had a lot of influence in the DC political scene. The tour is paced well and the pit stop at Martin's, which is also a part of the history, was perfect. I'd recommend Off the Mall Tours to both locals and tourists - everyone will learn something new.
568adriac
Aug 2020
Katie is super knowledgeable and weaves a story full of facts while painting the scene of DC in a very different time. The 2hrs goes by fast but the walk is easy and the pitstop at hill country is an excellent choice. Tours during covid are small so allows for easy social distancing. Super fun for girls night or for a fun way to wind down a visit to the capital. Tip: your does not start/stop at the same place.
Amanda H
Aug 2020
What a great social distancing way to explore the city! Engaging for locals and visitors alike. Katie took us on a journey to Civil War era DC filled with Madams up and down Pennsylvania Avenue. Easy walking, nice pace, and you conclude on the Mall in time to explore the monuments at night! Definitely recommended.

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