Transportation Walk - the Non-museum Museum

In the Capitol Riverfront neighborhood of southwest Washington, and I’ve come across Washington’s most unusual museum:  The Transportation Walk outside the headquarters of the US Department of Transportation. 

 

This is a museum that’s not in a museum.  It traces the history of transportation on our continent from that used by indigenous people to today.  And it shows this evolution through artifacts, plaques, and sidewalk pavers.  It covers the short-lived pony express, the importance of the Erie Canal, the role of African Americans in building the railroads, the impact of the interstate highway system, and much more.

 

And as you walk around the building you find some great stuff – landing gear, tires, propellers, gas pumps, old travel posters – this is such a great idea.

 

And as I walk around here, I wonder what the next addition to this museum will be.  Will it be a car with an obsolete combustion engine or a new EV charging station?

 

The neighborhood’s worth a visit.  It used to a light industrial area – a cement factory, autobody shops, and such.  But today it’s worth a visit, especially if you going to a game at nearby Nationals Park.  There are shops, restaurants, and the Yards Park, which I’ll save for another blog. 

 

But for whatever reason brings you down to Capitol Riverfront this is a fun way to learn how we’ve gotten from here to there.

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 6

Arlington National Cemetery: Secrets and Stories

Every working day more than twenty Americans who sacrificed for their country are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.  On this tour we learn the secrets of Arlington's past and present and the fascinating stories of those buried here. And while Arlington's dead rest in peace, we'll see that they are still always working.  

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 6

Hidden on Capitol Hill

Few people think beyond the Capitol when they think of the Hill. This tour takes you to the heart of a neighborhood with a fascinating history that still speaks to us today. Learn about these famous locations from a former Capitol Hill resident.

Duration
2 hours 30 minutes
Group Size
1 to 6

Embassy Row: Divinity & Diplomats

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Duration
8 hours
Group Size
1 to 6

Customized Private Tours

There are no limits here! This tour is whatever you want it to be. See the part of Washington, DC you’ve always wanted to with an expert guide who has been in the city for more than thirty years. Our Washington Private Tours are perfect for those looking to learn more about DC in a fun and safe manner. See what you like for however long you like, accompanied by an expert guide!