Tours/Washington DC/Secrets & Scandals: Washington DC Private Half-Day Walking Tour
Viator · Private tour

Secrets & Scandals: Washington DC Private Half-Day Walking Tour

4.6(8)Washington DC1 hour
VIATOR4.8(6)TRIPADVISOR4.0(2)

Description

Enjoy a private walking tour of the nation's capital and uncover the infamous political scandals and secrets embedded in Washington, D.C.'s history. Learn how this historic city has been shaped by great presidents and leaders who have lived through the power struggles that defined an era. Explore the heart of American Democracy, Pennsylvania Avenue in Washington D.C. whilst hearing all about the infamous stories of political deceit, lies and indiscretions of the past 200 years. On this private tour, you'll discover the shady past of some senior Congressmen, White House officials, FBI agents and Military staff, journalists, spies, politicians and presidents. No official has been left untainted, including cable news stars, lawyers, senators and even members of the FBI. The stories spread far and wide, from Capitol Hill through the Judicial Branch to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue: the White House itself.

Tour Options

Secrets & Scandals: Washington DC Private Half-Day Walking Tour

Itinerary

180 min

Explore the political heart of Washington D.C with an expert private guide to regale you with the stories of corruption and scandal at the very heart of political power in the USA. Learn about the 4 presidential assassinations from Abe Lincoln to JFK, and the many attempted assassinations – and how they were thwarted, and get to know the main sites around the White House neighbourhood, where so many national & international scandals have started or taken place, including Old Ebbitt Grill and the Willard.

Highlights

Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places
A friendly, professional tour guide for your own private group

What's included

Included
Plenty of time to take photos of your favourite places
A friendly, professional tour guide for your own private group
Not included
Food and drink, although your guide will be happy to recommend local favourites along the way
Gratuities (optional)
Transportation on the day (if required)
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Entrance fees

Traveller Ratings

4.6
8 reviews
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Important Information

  • Wheelchair accessible
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Reviews(8)

J
Jason_H
May 26, 2026
Engaging Walk Through D.C.’s Hidden Stories

We took the “Secrets & Scandals” walking tour of downtown D.C. with Jalisa, and it was a great experience. It was enjoyable to walk through the city while learning more about the history, locations, and stories behind them. Jalisa was full of information and brought real excitement and energy to the tour, making the stories even more engaging. Overall, it was an informative and entertaining way to experience downtown D.C.

S
Sam_B
December 16, 2025
A great afternoon understanding American history and politics

This was a very interesting tour - our guide, Keshler, was full of enthusiasm and happy to talk an English couple with a sketchy sense of American history through what we needed to know! He made sure we'd seen everything we needed to and even dropped us back at the station to ensure we got our train back to New York.

I
Indy46278
October 15, 2023
Average at Best

I took this private walking tour with 3 other family members. Matt was our guide. While knowledgeable, it became clear when he walked in circles with a phone in hand, that this was a new tour for Matt. Having taken several other walking tours in the area, this was not conducted in the same manner. Matt walked and talked at the same time making it difficult to hear at times with traffic and other noises. Most other tours led you to a given space, then talked, and moved on. On this day the tour lasted 2 hours. Given the cost, I think you can do better elsewhere.

F
Freedom39703856868
July 24, 2023
Like taking a leisurely walk with a well informed friend

The tour covered locations I had not seen before and included facts I was unaware of. The must see Fords Theater is emotional. Our guide, Keshler, was very charming and well informed. Highly recommend.

D
Dominque_A
July 6, 2022
Interesting and informative

Our family of parents and two sons aged 19 & 21 really enjoyed our guide Stephen’s tales … basically make sure you are rich and you will probably get away with it !! You don’t walk as much as some other tours we have done.

Q
Quang_H
May 30, 2022
TMZ of American History

This private tour was outstanding. The various fascinating anecdotes provided by Raphael our tour guide was riveting and made the excursion truly memorable.

S
Susanne_G
July 21, 2021
Walking tour

It was so personal snd clear in the understanding. We loved it and would highly recommend it. Our guide was very personal snd fun.

Operator response

Hi, Susanne! It makes us extremely happy to know that you've enjoyed your tour with Jonah! It makes all our efforts absolutely worth it, when we know we've contributed to a memorable experience for you all. We're glad, as well, that you got to know more in depth of how interesting, and just lovely, the city of Washington DC can be. Hope to have you join us again, soon! All our best wishes, Travel Curious Team

T
Tracy_T
June 19, 2021
Wonderful! very educational, personalized experience! Highly recommend!

Lafayette Park History / Architecture / Statues and the history behind The Willard Hotel. Loved the personal experience !

Operator response

Hi, Tracy We're so happy to know you had a great time on your tour with Jonah. Washington D.C. is such an interesting city, and we're glad you had a moment to experience it! We hope you'll join us again to discover more amazing locations in the future. All our best, Travel Curious

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