I’ve lived in the Washington DC area for over a year and a half and have done the typical tourist attractions – the Lincoln Memorial, the Smithsonian, Georgetown. But most recently, I’ve realized that I don’t know much more about the history of the area. So for my fun activity this weekend, I am going to learn more about where I live – by foot.
I did some research online and discovered there are tons of walking tours available. There's one of historic Georgetown, a tour of Capitol Hill and even one from the perspective of FDR's dog, Gala. And with Halloween approaching, there is also a haunted monument walking tour that I could take. Most of the tours meet on Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. and they last about 2 hours. The tickets are reasonable and no reservations are necessary. So I signed myself up. I am taking a tour of where I live, the U Street area.
There are also plenty of books available on walking tours for cities throughout the country. Many provide various walking tour routes along with interesting historical information and pictures.
So get off the couch this weekend and take a walk around your city. Whether it’s through a tour group or by yourself, walking tours are a fun way to learn about the history and the character of where you live. Plus, they’ll keep you active.
Justin Zielke
