U Street Tour: Exploring DC's Cultural and Culinary History
4.8
252 Ratings
Washington
Experience the rich cultural and culinary history of U Street in Washington, DC. Discover the origins of famous musicians, explore hidden art, and taste diverse cuisines that reflect the neighborhood's vibrant past. Book now and support a local charity!
Duration: 3 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • U Street - Our tour will take place predominantly along the U St corridor, which is rich with history. We’ll stop in several places between restaurants to share the history and culture of this diverse neighborhood.
What's Included
  • Professional local guide
  • Inclusive lunch
  • Rich historical content
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
Additional Information

Uncover the rich culinary traditions and history of DC as we walk and converse about the golden era of ‘Black Broadway’ and its vital role during the Jazz Age. You would be astounded to discover the number of famous names that had their beginnings in the modest clubs located along this avenue.

Experience the unique flavors of DC as we uncover the stories behind hidden murals, sculptures, and the artists that envisioned them. Understand the Civil Rights upheavals that left a lasting impact on the city and its skyline for years that followed. Discover the evolving architecture and its ongoing transformations.

Savor a diverse range of dishes that resonate with the historical narratives of this distinctively DC neighborhood. U Street is a not-to-be-missed locale in DC!

When booking, please inform us of any food-related allergies you may have.

A part of the revenue from every ticket sale is contributed to Bread For The City, an institution dedicated to providing food, clothes, health services, and legal and social support to alleviate the hardships endured by the impoverished residents of DC.

  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
  • Please advise any specific dietary requirements at time of booking - we cannot accommodate vegans :(
  • Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
  • Please note: Unfortunately, we are not able to accommodate vegan diets or dairy allergies on this tour.
Location
1213 U St NW
U Street Northwest
Please arrive 5 minutes prior to tour time and meet your guide outside of the restaurant. If you do not see your guide, please head inside and find your group.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.8
(252 Ratings)
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Ruthwalker444
Jun 9, 2024
Excellent tour in an interesting area. - Jenn was a great guide who balanced the history of this interesting area and stories with delicious food. The tour was relaxed and well paced with just enough food, and time to chat with her and others on the tour. We particularly enjoyed the famous hotdogs, and the Ethiopian experience. We would highly recommend this tour.
Review provided by Viator
Shirleyk_d
Jun 8, 2024
Foid and history...perfect together! - Generally, weaving histoical underpinnings of the neighborhood together with the food samplings. Ethiopian food stop was a new experience for me and my spouse and we really enjoyed it. Also the portions were ample!
Review provided by Viator
Camille_s
May 14, 2024
Yummy Food, Interesting History! - We had a great tour with Jim! Loved hearing about the history of the U Street Neighborhood. Delicious food. Large servings so bring an appetite!
Review provided by Viator
U7217gutarar
Apr 20, 2024
A great way to experience DC! - As a DC local, I wholeheartedly recommend this guided food tour! It offers a fascinating insight into the rich history and transformation of U St, helping you understand its vibrant character today. The tour includes stops at four diverse restaurants, showcasing American, Ethiopian, Cuban cuisines, and ending with a delightful dessert. Our guide, Vanesa, was incredibly knowledgeable and approachable, eagerly answering questions and engaging with everyone. The walking route is mostly flat and covers just a few blocks, making it accessible for all ages. It truly offers a delightful experience with something for everyone to enjoy!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Debbiedo2733ef
Mar 31, 2024
What a great food tour - Such a great tour. We ate at 4 different unique restaurants and had a comprehensive tour of the U street area! Sanika and Vanesa were amazing tour guides. Super informative and fun.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Andy_h
Mar 24, 2024
Great food, great people, fun times. - 1. Great food. Half-smokes were my favorite. My wife leaned towards the pastelitos. 2. Excellent tour guide in Rasheed - he was highly knowledgeable and shared a ton of local history and personal experiences with us. 3. Very cool area to walk around and learn about the food and culture. Overall great tour - THANKS!
Review provided by Viator
Dolly_m
Mar 22, 2024
More than we expected - Loved the story telling and the deep learning every step of the way. Not only did we get the opportunity to taste the culture we were learning about but we truly felt like we walked away with more knowledge than we signed up for
Review provided by Viator
Chadwick_r
Jun 23, 2024
Guava Pastelitos…Yum! - Really enjoyed the pastelitos at Colada Shop. Highly recommend you try the guava cheese ones. Fun way to spend an afternoon. Our guide Vanesa was very personable.
Review provided by Viator
Peggy_s
Apr 12, 2024
The guide was fabulous,... - The guide was fabulous, and the history was outstanding. The food was so-so - 4 stops with one being a regular ice cream store. Interesting foods, but not always tasty.
Review provided by Viator
Vmurf
May 27, 2024
Do Better - Our tour guide was punctual and personable. Apart from that, this tour was not worth the cost. It's ridiculous and unsanitary to expect a group of strangers to share a plate of food that you eat with your hands. And Jenny's Ice Cream as a tour stop? I just don't feel like we got to experience the culinary richness of U Street. This tour needs to be reorganized.
Review provided by Viator
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