Madams of DC

Explore the History of DC's Civil War-era Red Light District

by Off the Mall Walking Tours· Washington, DC
From$30
Group size30
Ages18–99

What to Expect

Washington experienced an unprecedented rise in prostitution during and after the Civil War.

During this period, Pennsylvania Avenue became DC's most notorious red-light district, from the ramshackle "boarding houses" of Murder Bay to the glamorous pleasure houses of Marble Alley, all within sight of the Capitol. Also, a new profession for women was rising, that of the "female lobbyist." This tour will introduce you to some of the most notorious women of mid-19th Century DC.

More info:

The route starts at the Willard Intercontinental and travels down Pennsylvania Avenue, which was the main thoroughfare along which DC's red-light district arose. The tour ends at the National Museum of the American Indian.

Includes

  • 2 hours with a knowledgeable guide.

Duration

2 hours

Address

1401 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, DC 20004

Pricing

Adult$31.80

Prices are typical; see the booking calendar for live availability and rates.

Cancellation Policy

Cancellations 24 hours before tour start time will receive a full refund. Tours cancelled beweeen 24 and 8 hours before start time will receive a 50% refund. No refund for cancellations within 8 hours of tour.

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