Embassy Row & Dupont Circle: Gilded Age History Small-Group Tour
Description
Before it was the cosmopolitan heart of DC, Dupont Circle was a wasteland transformed by "Boss" Shepherd’s corrupt politics and the staggering wealth of the "Nouveau Riche." Join us for a walking journey through the Gilded Age, where we strip back the marble facades of DC’s most iconic mansions to reveal the scandals within. From the "smart set" of Embassy Row to the tragic curse of the Hope Diamond, you’ll learn how the city’s elite reinvented themselves—and sometimes lost everything—in the quest for social dominance. Highlights The Beer Baron’s Castle: Visit the Heurich House, the city’s first fireproof home, built by the man who survived "Death" and Prohibition. The Hope Diamond Curse: Stand before the Walsh-McLean House and hear the tragic tale of Evelyn McLean’s "cursed" fortune. Diplomatic Intrigues: Explore the Larz Anderson House, a 50-room palace designed for the most exclusive 12 weeks of the year. Secret Doors & Scandals: Pass by the O Street Mansion’s 100+ secret doors
Tour Options
Itinerary
Visit a beer garden at the former mansion of a historic brewer.
See some of the fun and interesting statues and memorabilia at the Mansion on O Street and learn how to visit this quirky house with over 100 secret passages.
A Gilded Age mansion which houses the Society of the Cincinnati, a fraternal order that pre-dates the Constitution
Hear stories of noted socialite Evalyn Walsh McLean, known for her elaborate parties and immense wealth, and how her former home became an embassy.
Explore the circle park that lends its name to the surrounding neighborhood and learn the history of the neighborhood, from early establishment to today.
Hear tragic tales about the Wadsworth family that this house was constructed for.
Discover a mansion that was designed by an earlyAfrican-American architect.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please note that this is an exterior tour and we do not enter the mansions described
Reviews(5)
So much interesting history. Loved learning about the families that built the beautiful homes of DuPont Circle.
We really enjoyed this walking tour around DuPont Circle with Liam. He was very well-informed and we learned a lot about DC in the Gilded Age.
The tour guide went above and beyond to customize the tour for us given the cold and rainy weather. Thank you!
Hi Christine, thanks for sticking with us despite the weather! We always try to make sure our guests are comfortable, even when Mother Nature isn't cooperating. We’re glad your guide was able to pivot and keep the experience great for you
Superb storytelling and pictures. Our guide, Shane, brought history to life for us. The 3 Graces were a highlight.
Thanks for joining me on my favorite neighborhood tour! I could go on and on about the Three Graces, especially Alice Roosevelt Longworth! Would love to take you on more tours around town next time. - Shane
Liam was a great guide! The tour was very informative about the history of several families that lives in the area and Liam was able to answer all questions, showing the quality of their research.
I’m glad to hear you enjoyed my tour of DuPont. Definitely some interesting stories hidden behind those mansion facades and I love having the opportunity to share those tales.
