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Unscripted by Guided Tours DC

DC Neighborhoods by Metro

The first tour you should do in DC! Learn how to navigate the DC public transportation system known as Metro and explore DC neighborhoods.

U Street/Shaw, Metro

$69

3 Hours

Starting Location:

Unscripted by Guided Tours DC, 7th Street Northwest, Washington, DC, USA

About the Tour

Unlock the secrets of Washington, D.C.'s iconic Metro system while exploring some of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods on this engaging walking tour. Whether you're new to the city or looking to master the Metro, this tour will equip you with everything you need to navigate D.C. with ease and confidence. Your journey begins at the Unscripted Guided Tours DC Welcome Center and takes you through key stops with plenty of opportunities to explore, learn, and enjoy local culture.

What You’ll Experience:

Learn how to use the Washington Metro like a local! Your guide will teach you how to read the Metro map, buy a fare card, and navigate between lines and stations. You’ll get hands-on experience transferring between lines and planning the best routes, so you can confidently travel through the city on your own. Your tour takes you to the heart of D.C.’s Chinatown, where you’ll see the stunning Chinatown Arch—a vibrant, colorful gateway that marks the entrance to one of the city's most dynamic neighborhoods. Learn about the history of D.C.'s Chinese community and its role in shaping the city’s cultural fabric.

No Metro tour is complete without a visit to the city’s architectural gem—Union Station. Explore this grand transportation hub, which has been welcoming travelers since 1907. Admire its Beaux-Arts design, learn about its rich history, and see how it connects D.C. to the rest of the nation. Washington Metro stations are not just transit points—they’re also an urban art gallery. As you travel between stops, your guide will point out the beautiful mosaics, sculptures, and unique architectural features that make D.C.’s Metro system an experience in itself.

Dive into the rich history of the U Street Corridor, once known as the “Black Broadway,” a thriving cultural hub during the early-to-mid 20th century. Hear stories of the musicians, artists, and intellectuals who made this neighborhood legendary, including the iconic Duke Ellington, who was born here. Stop into Ben's Chili Bowl—the legendary D.C. institution known for its famous half-smoke sausage. Grab a bite of this local delicacy, beloved by both locals and tourists alike, while soaking in the history of this iconic establishment that’s been serving up comfort food since 1958.


Whether you’re visiting for the first time or already a D.C. enthusiast, this tour is the perfect mix of transportation know-how, local history, and cultural immersion. Come learn, explore, and taste your way through the heart of the nation's capital!

Highlights

  • Hands-On Learning: Master the Metro and feel comfortable navigating it on your own.

  • Historical Insight: Gain a deeper understanding of D.C.’s history, architecture, and culture as you explore vibrant neighborhoods.

  • Local Flavor: Taste a true D.C. classic with Ben’s Chili Bowl’s world-famous half-smoke.

  • Comprehensive Experience: Perfect for visitors who want to blend sightseeing with practical tips for getting around the city.

Things To Know

  • Meeting Point: Unscripted Guided Tours DC Welcome Center, 400 7th Street NW

  • End Point: Same as start location

  • Included: Guided tour, Metro training, stop at Ben’s Chili Bowl

  • What to Bring: Comfortable walking shoes, camera, and an appetite for a half-smoke!

© 2023 Guided Tours DC LLC

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