History of Black Georgetown Walking Tour

Washington, District of Columbia

5 (3)

History of Black Georgetown Walking Tour

Washington, District of Columbia

5 (3)

Duration: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Overview

Discover the rich history of Georgetown through the stories of its African American community. Explore the impact of those who shaped one of DC’s oldest and most storied neighborhoods.

🏛️ Discover Georgetown’s history beyond its boutiques and fine dining
📖 Learn about the African American community that once made up 30% of the neighborhood
🗣️ Hear stories of resilience from descendants of enslaved people and free Black residents
🔍 Uncover the overlooked contributions that shaped one of DC’s oldest neighborhoods

Georgetown may be known today for its historic charm, upscale boutiques, and gourmet restaurants, but beneath its polished exterior lies a rich and often overlooked history. Once home to a thriving African American community, Georgetown's past tells the story of resilience, achievement, and the enduring impact of Black citizens who helped shape one of DC’s oldest neighborhoods. At its peak, African Americans made up nearly 30% of the area’s population, with generations of free Black residents and descendants of enslaved people leaving their mark on the community.
This walking tour offers a deep dive into Georgetown’s Black history, shedding light on the stories that history books often leave untold. As you stroll through its cobblestone streets, you'll uncover the narratives of individuals who built businesses, advocated for change, and created a lasting legacy. The journey begins at 3206 O Street NW and winds through significant sites before concluding at the historic Mt. Zion/Female Union Band Cemetery, one of the most important African American burial grounds in the city.
Along the way, enjoy a midway stop at Thomas Sweet Shop, where you can take a break, grab a refreshment, and reflect on the powerful stories you’ve encountered. By the end of this tour, you'll see Georgetown through a new lens—one that highlights the strength, culture, and contributions of the Black community that helped shape its history.

When do I choose a date?

After purchase, you can request your preferred dates and times by following the instructions in the email you receive. If it's a gift, the recipient will also get an email with booking instructions.

Year-Round,
Offered multiple days a month

When do I choose a date?

After purchase, you can request your preferred dates and times by following the instructions in the email you receive. If it's a gift, the recipient will also get an email with booking instructions.

Year-Round,
Offered multiple days a month

Any restrictions to participate?

Age: All age groups are welcome
Physical limitations: Must be able to be on their feet for at least 2 hours. Not recommended for people with back problems.
Who can you accommodate for?
Individuals with disabilities: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
Pets: Service animals are allowed
What to expect on the day of the experience?
Duration: 2.5 hours. Tour/experience may go slightly longer based on participant engagement throughout the tour/experience.
What’s included: Admission to the tour
Who will be present: You will have a guide with you at all times as well as up to 20 total participants. This experience will be cancelled if the minimum participant requirement is not met.
Spectators: No spectators are allowed, everyone must have a ticket/reservation.
Photo/ video: Photos are encouraged!
How to prepare?
Weather dependency: This experience is weather dependent
Arrival: Plan to arrive at the meeting spot a few minutes in advance
Parking: There is street and private parking near all meeting points
What to wear: Clothing appropriate for the weather, good walking shoes
Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: No changing rooms, but there will be bathroom breaks during the tour.

Any restrictions to participate?

Age: All age groups are welcome
Physical limitations: Must be able to be on their feet for at least 2 hours. Not recommended for people with back problems.
Who can you accommodate for?
Individuals with disabilities: Wheelchair accessible
Languages: English
Pets: Service animals are allowed
What to expect on the day of the experience?
Duration: 2.5 hours. Tour/experience may go slightly longer based on participant engagement throughout the tour/experience.
What’s included: Admission to the tour
Who will be present: You will have a guide with you at all times as well as up to 20 total participants. This experience will be cancelled if the minimum participant requirement is not met.
Spectators: No spectators are allowed, everyone must have a ticket/reservation.
Photo/ video: Photos are encouraged!
How to prepare?
Weather dependency: This experience is weather dependent
Arrival: Plan to arrive at the meeting spot a few minutes in advance
Parking: There is street and private parking near all meeting points
What to wear: Clothing appropriate for the weather, good walking shoes
Restrooms/ lockers/ changing rooms: No changing rooms, but there will be bathroom breaks during the tour.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 15 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

If you have any unused Experience Vouchers, you can exchange them for anything else in our marketplace, no matter when. If you choose an experience that's more expensive, you'll need to pay the difference, but if you choose one that costs less, you'll receive a credit towards your next booking.

No refunds are allowed once the experience is booked, but you can reschedule up to 24 hours before your experience, for a date within a year of the original booking. To reschedule, contact the experience provider directly. No-shows or rescheduling less than 24 hours in advance means losing the value of your experience.

Unused Experience Vouchers can be returned within 15 days for a full refund to the original purchaser, no questions asked.

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