Black History in Motion: Historic DC Bus Tour with Author Lauri Williamson

Why You’ll Love This Tour

• You’ll experience Black history in motion, connecting neighborhoods, landmarks, and stories across the city
• You’ll hear context-rich storytelling from a licensed local guide and author deeply rooted in DC history
• You’ll explore both iconic sites and lesser-known places often missed on traditional tours
• You’ll enjoy a comfortable, well-paced experience with time to step off the bus, reflect, and take photos
• You’ll leave with a deeper understanding of how Black history shaped Washington, DC—and how those stories continue to resonate today

What to Expect

This fun and educational 3–3.5 hour guided bus tour with short walking stops explores Washington, DC through Black history, neighborhoods, landmarks, and stories hidden in plain sight. Designed for both locals and visitors, the tour blends movement, storytelling, and place-based history to show how culture, leadership, and legacy are woven into the city.

Featured Stories & Sites (subject to change):

• Lincoln Park, where Frederick Douglass spoke before an estimated 25,000 people
• African American Civil War Memorial, honoring the United States Colored Troops
• Historic churches founded by formerly enslaved people, including sites connected to organizing for the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom
• Locations where newly freed African Americans forged new lives following the Civil War
• A drive-by exploration of the National Museum of African American History and Culture, a museum more than 100 years in the making
• A narrated ride along historic U Street / Black Broadway, highlighting music, activism, and cultural influence
• Lincoln Memorial, examining emancipation and its role in Black freedom movements
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, reflecting on activism, leadership, and lasting legacy
• Drive by Howard University, one of the nation’s most significant historically Black colleges and universities
• Additional neighborhoods, murals, and landmarks shared along the route as time allows

Tour Highlights:

• Comfortable, temperature-controlled transportation with guided narration throughout
• Opportunities to get off the bus for photos, commentary, and closer exploration
• A balanced mix of riding and light to moderate walking
• Engaging storytelling that connects iconic sites with lesser-known histories

About the Experience:

• Led by Lauri Williamson, licensed DC tour guide and author of 111 Places in Black Culture in Washington, DC That You Must Not Miss
• Each guest receives a 111 Places in Black Culture That You Must Not Miss bookmark
• Designed to provide context, discovery, and connection rather than a rushed checklist

Logistics:

• Start & End Location: Marianne’s by DC Central Kitchen, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Library
• Guests may arrive early to grab something warm and are welcome to enjoy the library exhibits after the tour
• Itinerary is subject to change, with additional stops possible depending on timing and conditions

Pricing & Reservation Details:

• Price: $75 + Eventbrite fees
• Refund Policy: Full refunds available if canceled 7 days in advance (Eventbrite fees are non-refundable)
• Cancellations within 7 days may transfer their ticket to another guest

What’s Included:

• Guided bus tour with narration
• Bottled water and light snacks
• Commemorative bookmark from 111 Places in Black Culture in Washington, DC That You Must Not Miss

What’s Not Included:

• Meals
• Gratuity (never expected, always appreciated)

Important Information:

• Confirmation will be received at the time of booking
• Tour includes light to moderate walking off the bus
• Dress for the weather; the tour operates rain or shine
• Not wheelchair accessible
• Near public transportation

The Fine Print

By participating in this tour, attendees agree to the following:

1. Liability: Attendees are responsible for their own safety when boarding, riding, and exiting buses or other transportation provided during the tour. The tour operator is not liable for any injuries or accidents that may occur.
2. Photos and Media: Attendees consent to being photographed or recorded during the tour. These images and recordings may be used for promotional purposes.
3. Personal Responsibility: Attendees are expected to follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by the tour guide.
4. Health and Mobility: Attendees must be able to navigate uneven surfaces, stairs, and other potential physical challenges associated with the tour. Please inform the tour operator in advance of any special accommodations needed.
5. Timeliness: Attendees are responsible for arriving at designated meeting points on time. Late arrivals may miss portions of the tour without refund or rescheduling.
6. Personal Belongings: Attendees are responsible for their own personal items during the tour. The tour operator is not liable for lost, stolen, or damaged belongings.
7. Liability: Attendees are responsible for their own safety when boarding, riding,
8. Conduct: Attendees are expected to behave respectfully toward other participants, the guide, and locations visited. Disruptive or inappropriate behavior may result in removal from the tour.
9. Weather and Conditions: Tours will proceed rain or shine unless conditions are deemed unsafe. Attendees are encouraged to dress appropriately and prepare for weather conditions.
10. No Smoking or Alcohol: Smoking, vaping, and consumption of alcohol are not permitted during the tour.