Discover Washington DC’s must-see landmarks and hidden gems on a personalized private tour. Get insider stories with the freedom to explore at your own pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels as walking is moderate and there are opportunities for breaks.
Wildlife
History
Washington DC was founded in 1790 as the United States capital and contains numerous national monuments and museums.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on preserving green spaces like Rock Creek Park and reducing urban pollution to protect habitats.
DC Design Tours
Discover Washington DC’s must-see landmarks and hidden gems on a personalized private tour. Get insider stories with the freedom to explore at your own pace.
DC Design Tours is a Washington, D.C.–based tour company specializing in private walking tours that focus on architecture, urban design, and neighborhood history. The company offers a range of guided experiences across the city, including Cleveland Park, Dupont Circle & Embassy Row, the U Street Corridor, the National Mall, Georgetown, Anacostia, Rock Creek Park, Capitol Hill, 16th Street & Adams Morgan, and customizable private walks tailored to specific interests and schedules.
Tours highlight architectural styles, landscape design, historic homes, public monuments, and community stories. Guests can expect personalized itineraries that adapt pacing, topics, and points of interest to group size and preferences. Interpretive commentary connects built environments to cultural and political history, revealing design choices and hidden symbols in familiar landmarks.
DC Design Tours emphasizes small-group, appointment-based experiences to provide focused, accessible exploration of neighborhoods and green spaces. The company is noted for guiding visitors to both iconic sites—such as the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial—and lesser-known gems like the Bishop’s Garden, Pierce Mill, and the Old Stone House. Tours are suitable for visitors, design professionals, students, and residents seeking deeper context for Washington’s urban fabric.
Featured on The Adventure Collective, DC Design Tours maintains transparency about routes and meeting logistics and encourages pre-booking to secure preferred times. The business communicates clearly about what each tour covers and offers flexible options for private groups, ensuring an informative and engaging visit to Washington, D.C.
Local guides tailor narratives to design-minded visitors, historians, families, and curious travelers alike for all experience levels.
Tours Offered
11
Neighborhood-focused routes across Washington, D.C.
Private Groups
Custom tours
Tailored to group size and interests
Appointment-Based
By reservation
Pre-book to secure preferred times
Featured On
The Adventure Collective
Listed on The Adventure Collective
Reserve a tailored walking tour today to explore architecture, neighborhoods, and monuments with informed interpretation.
Book Early to Secure Your Preferred Time
Private tours can fill quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Reserve your spot in advance to guarantee availability.
Dress Comfortably for Walking
You'll be on your feet exploring various sites, so wear comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
Bring a Refillable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially during warmer months when walking outdoors for several hours.
Prepare for Security Checks
Sites like the Capitol and White House have security protocols; bring valid ID and travel light to speed up entry.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Essential for navigating city streets and historical sites comfortably.
Reusable Water Bottle
Keeps you hydrated during warmer weather and extended walking.
summer
Weather-Appropriate Layers
Helps you adjust to changing temperatures, especially in cooler months.
fall
Portable Phone Charger
Ensures your devices stay powered for photos and navigation throughout the tour.