Washington DC is a city that’s perfect for exploring on foot. Its compact layout means many of the most famous landmarks — like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol — are within easy walking distance. Whether you’re interested in uncovering ghost stories, exploring the National Mall, or learning about presidential crimes, there’s a walking tour that will match your curiosity. Our favorite? The Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour combines spooky tales with a dose of history, making for an evening you won’t forget.
While some tours focus on history and monuments, others dive into the city’s darker secrets or LGBTQ stories. These experiences offer not just sightseeing but a chance to connect with Washington DC’s layered past. Now, let’s walk through the five best options, so you can pick the perfect tour for your interests and schedule.
1. Washington, DC: Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour
At number 1, this haunted walking tour scores a solid 4.3 out of 5 based on 170 reviews. It offers a 1 to 1.5-hour evening exploration of DC’s most haunted spots, including the White House, Treasury Annex, and Octagon Building. This tour is good for those who enjoy a spooky twist on history with tales of presidents, assassins, and conspirators.
The guide does a great job of making these ghost stories come alive, blending historical facts with chilling legends. Reviewers mention that Elias, the guide, is very knowledgeable and engaging, making the stories entertaining without sacrificing the historical context. The tour’s focus on haunted streets and historic landmarks adds a layer of intrigue to a city already full of significance.
While the price is modest at $27 per person, the real value is in the storytelling and atmosphere. It’s perfect for families or anyone curious about the darker side of Washington’s history, especially if you’re looking for a shorter, evening activity.
Bottom Line: This tour combines fun, history, and a bit of fright — a great pick for first-timers or anyone looking to add some mystery to their DC visit.
2. Washington D.C.: The Ghosts of Washington D.C. Walking Tour
At number 2, this family-friendly ghost tour has an impressive 4.8 out of 5 from just 13 reviews. It’s slightly longer, at 1.5 hours, and is designed to be suitable for all ages — from kids to grandparents.
This tour takes you through haunted landmarks, such as Miller Plaza Pavilion, and shares stories that are both spooky and suitable for a younger audience. The guide’s cheerful attitude and careful storytelling make it a hit with families. Reviewers highlight Roy’s friendly demeanor and interactive approach, which keeps everyone engaged. Despite the rain, the guide’s energy didn’t drop, earning praise for maintaining an upbeat atmosphere.
Costing $25 per person, this tour offers a lively, spooky experience without being too frightening. It’s an excellent way to introduce kids to Washington’s mysterious history while not sacrificing entertainment.
Bottom Line: Perfect for families with children or anyone who prefers a lighter, more playful ghost tour that still delivers eerie tales.
3. Washington DC: National Mall Walking Tour
Number 3 on our list is the National Mall walking tour, rated 4.1 out of 5 by a small but enthusiastic group of 12 reviewers. For 2 hours, you’ll explore the iconic monuments and memorials, from the Lincoln Memorial to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
This tour is ideal if you want a comprehensive view of America’s history at its most accessible, with a licensed guide pointing out the stories behind each monument. You’ll stand where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech and learn about what each memorial commemorates. The focus on key landmarks makes it a logical choice for history buffs or first-time visitors who want to see the essentials efficiently.
While the price of $25 is competitive, the tour’s biggest strength is its focus on educational storytelling about the monuments’ significance. It’s not designed for ghost stories or dark secrets but instead for those interested in patriotic history and cultural symbolism.
Bottom Line: An excellent choice for visitors who want to grasp the big picture of the U.S. on foot, with plenty of photo opportunities and meaningful stories.
4. Washington DC: Presidential Crime Scenes Walking Tour
Number 4 is the Presidential Crime Scenes Tour, which earns a perfect 5/5 from reviewers. It lasts about 2.5 hours and takes you into the most notorious scenes of presidential assassination attempts and conspiracies, including Harry Truman’s close call and Lincoln’s assassination site.
What makes this tour stand out? It’s not just about monuments; it’s about presidents’ vulnerabilities and the often-violent history surrounding their time in office. The guide shares little-known stories about assassination attempts and conspiracy theories, making this tour a must for political history buffs. If you’re interested in America’s darker political side**, this walks right into that territory.
The tour’s value is in its vivid storytelling and focus on presidential security and scandal. It’s best suited for those with a keen interest in history’s darker chapters or who enjoy a more intense, story-rich experience.
Bottom Line: For around $25, this is a compelling, detailed walk into the dangerous history of American presidents — a great pick for fans of political stories and true crime.
5. Washington DC: LGBTQ Walking Tour
At number 5, this LGBTQ history tour offers 2.5 hours of storytelling for $30 per person. It reveals Washington’s LGBTQ past, including the site of the first gay rights protest in the U.S., the White House’s first openly lesbian employee, and the epicenter of the “Lavender Scare.”
This tour is especially meaningful for those interested in social justice, civil rights, and LGBTQ history. It highlights how the community has fought for recognition and acceptance within a city that’s often seen as formal and reserved. The guide introduces you to key locations that shaped the movement and offers insight into the ongoing struggle for equality.
While reviews are limited, they praise the tour’s insightful storytelling and the chance to see familiar landmarks through a new lens. The tour is suited for travelers interested in social history or looking to learn more about Washington’s role in LGBTQ rights.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a unique perspective on Washington DC’s social and political history, perfect for those wanting to explore a different facet of the city.
How to Choose Your Walking Tour in Washington DC
When deciding which tour fits your interests, consider your budget, time, and curiosity. If you’re after a spooky evening, the haunted ghost tours are a fun, engaging way to combine history with ghost stories. For those who want a more educational experience focused on monuments, the National Mall tour offers a thorough introduction.
If you’re into presidential history or conspiracy, the Presidential Crime Scenes tour provides a fascinating look at America’s political assassinations and attempted assassinations. Meanwhile, the LGBTQ tour is ideal for travelers interested in social justice and community stories.
Book early for popular tours, especially the ghost and crime scene walks, which tend to fill up quickly. Check the availability and start times that suit your schedule — many tours operate in the evening, adding an extra layer of atmosphere.
Final Thoughts
Washington DC offers a diverse selection of walking tours that cater to history lovers, ghost enthusiasts, and those interested in social movements. For a spooky, entertaining experience, the Ghosts and Spirits Haunted Walking Tour is highly recommended. If you’d prefer a comprehensive history of the monuments, the National Mall Tour is a reliable choice.
For those fascinated by presidential scandals, the Presidential Crime Scenes Tour hits the mark, while history interested travelers will appreciate the LGBTQ Walking Tour.
No matter which you choose, booking early is key to securing your spot. Each tour offers a unique way to see Washington DC beyond just the usual sightseeing, turning your visit into an engaging and memorable experience.