Washington Madams of DC Tour

Tour downtown Washington DC and discover all the changes that some of the capital's most stately neighbourhoods have undergone over the last century. You'll be accompanied by an expert guide, from whom you'll hear all sorts of stories and scandalous tales of 19th century Washington.

You will learn about the lives of prostitutes of the time and why prostitution was so widespread in Washington DC. During the Civil War, Union troops were stationed in the US capital, and soldiers liked to flock downtown for entertainment. As a result, all sorts of indecent businesses flourished in the capital.

You will discover that places where today's government buildings stand were once home to pleasure houses. You will learn about the history of Murder Bay, the dangerous neighbourhood where Freedom Plaza now stands. It was a place full of crime and danger, crowded with brothels, taverns and gambling houses, which is now an open area where concerts and music festivals are held.

You will pass by the Trump International Hotel, a luxurious hotel that was also once the site of brothels and illicit businesses. In front of the National Archives Museum, you'll learn about the role prostitutes played in society and their enormous influence. At the IOOF Temple Building, you will see one of the places where upper-class working girls met with army officers .

You'll stop in front of the National Gallery of Art, where some of Washington DC's most expensive brothels were located. Both houses of pleasure were known for their luxury, but also for their bitter rivalry .

Opposite the National Museum of the American Indian you'll see an archaeological dig where the remains of some of Washington's most glamorous brothels have been found.

A comprehensive, off-the-beaten-path tour full of fascinating stories about the criminality and prostitution of 19th century Washington. Ideal for history buffs and lovers of scandalous tales.