Hidden Halls of Power: Secret History of the White House & DC

5.0 (2 reviews) 2 hours Free cancellation

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5.0

Uncover the hidden stories and secret power plays behind America’s most famous address. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Step beyond the gates and into the untold history of the White House and Washington, DC. — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Washington, DC, has not always served as the federal government's headquarters. Following the Revolutionary War, the Residency Act of 1790 allowed for the establishment of the federal government in New York City, Philadelphia, and finally Washington, D.C. Establishing the federal government's seat was difficult due to the undeveloped state of the area that is today known as downtown Washington, DC. Land needed to be surveyed, maps needed to be created, and plans needed to be created for the new US capitol. Given that the newly established federal government had incurred enormous debts during the Revolutionary War that needed to be paid off, these duties proved to be easier said than done. As we travel through historical sites that date from the period immediately following the Revolutionary War to the present, we will be reminded of the American tale.

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At a glance

Duration: 2 hours
Confirmation: Confirmed within 48 hours
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Up to 15 people
People per booking: 1–15
Guide: English
Operated by: DC Ghosts By Us Ghost Adventures

Ages: Adults (13–120 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Professional and knowledgeable local guide
Included: Thoroughly researched and accurate history

Not included

Not included: Food and drink

Itinerary

Lafayette Square

Passing by

Explore this historic park that has hosted numerous protests throughout its history and served as a racetrack, cemetery, slave market, and military encampment.
The White House

Passing by

Learn about the Executive Mansion's past and mysteries, including its most recent renovation.
United States Department of the Treasury

Passing by

Uncover the truth of the Treasury, which was the first department to settle in with its 65 employees when the Federal government moved to Washington, DC.
Stop 4

Passing by

Discover President's Park's fascinating and somewhat perplexing past.
The Ellipse

Passing by

Visit this location to learn the construction's secrets.
Stop 6

Passing by

Learn about Enid A. Haupt, who supported numerous charitable endeavors such as cancer research, historic preservation, horticulture, and the arts and architecture, and is remembered with these fountains.
The Octagon

Passing by

Learn about this unusual home that is notable both aesthetically and supernaturally.
Blair House

Passing by

Uncover the stories of the home that houses foreign dignitaries and heads of state that visit the US.
Decatur House

Passing by

Learn how former president John F. Kennedy and his wife Jacqueline helped to keep this historic house standing.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

Meet your tour guide in Lafayette Square who will be wearing a white Junket t-shirt and holding a yellow flag. Please arrive 15 minutes before the start of the tour.