Washington DC Self-Guided Dupont & Logan Circles Walking Tour and Scavenger Hunt
A self-guided scavenger hunt through Lafayette Square, Dupont Circle, and Logan Circle that turns embassies, churches, and townhouses into clues. Perfect for travelers who want a flexible, three-hour urban adventure with local history and hands-on challenges.
The Experience
Before You Go
Charge your phone
This tour runs through your smartphone—bring a full battery and a portable charger to avoid losing maps and challenges mid-route.
Wear street-ready shoes
Side streets include cobbles and tree roots; choose supportive shoes with good grip for three hours of walking.
Hydrate and snack
Bring a reusable water bottle and a small snack—cafés are available but sitting down takes extra time.
Time your start
Begin early on weekdays to beat commuter crowds and enjoy quieter embassy façades; evenings are picturesque but busier on weekends.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •St. John’s Church (the 'Church of the Presidents') — a quiet historic stop just off Lafayette Square
- •The Phillips Collection courtyard and small galleries near Dupont Circle — art without the museum lines
Wildlife
- •Eastern gray squirrels
- •Peregrine falcons that sometimes perch on tall facades
Conservation Note
These neighborhoods rely on small green spaces and resident stewardship—please pack out trash, respect plantings, and stay on sidewalks to protect tree roots.
Dupont and Logan Circles emerged during Washington’s late-19th-century expansion; grand houses and embassy conversions reflect the city’s diplomatic growth and changing urban design.
Photographer's Notes
- • Lafayette Square facing the White House
- • Center of Dupont Circle at the fountain
- • Intersection at Logan Circle for the Victorian row houses
What to Bring
Smartphone with dataEssential
Required to access the scavenger-hunt interface, clues, and maps.
Comfortable walking shoesEssential
Supportive shoes reduce fatigue across mixed pavement and occasional cobbles.
Reusable water bottleEssential
Staying hydrated is important, especially in summer when temperatures rise.
Portable power bankEssential
Keeps your phone alive for maps, photos, and challenge submissions.
Common Questions
Where does the tour start and finish?
Start and finish at Lafayette Square, north of the White House; the route forms a loop through Dupont and Logan Circles and returns nearby the start point.
Is this activity wheelchair accessible?
Yes—routes and surfaces are wheelchair- and stroller-accessible, though some sidewalks may have minor uneven sections.
How long does the scavenger hunt take?
The suggested duration is three hours, but you can move faster or slower; the distance is about 3.9 km (2.4 miles).
Do I need to book for each person?
One scavenger-hunt purchase covers groups of 1–6 people—share the device among your party or take turns solving challenges.
Are pets allowed?
Yes—this activity is pet-friendly, but keep dogs leashed and be respectful of residential areas and other pedestrians.
How do I redeem my voucher?
Convert your voucher through the provider’s website using the email linked to your booking, then log in to start the scavenger hunt from your smartphone.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3 hours
Location
Washington, District of Columbia
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels—moderate stamina for three hours of walking with short stops.
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