A History Lover's Guide to Washington, D.C.: Designed for Democracy

by Alison Fortier

Join author Alison Fortier for a walk through our United States Capital and it's iconic locations.
This tour of the nation's capital goes beyond the traditional guidebook to offer a historical journey through the federal district. Visit the White House, the only executive home in the world regularly open to the public. Travel to President Lincoln's Cottage and see where he wrote the Emancipation Proclamation. Look around lesser-known sites, such as the grave of Pierre L'Enfant, the city's Botanical Gardens, the Old Post Office and a host of historical homes throughout the capital. From George Washington's Mount Vernon to the Kennedy Center, trek through each era of Washington, D.C., for a tour of America's most beloved sites. Join author and Washington insider Alison Fortier as she carefully curates an expedition to our shining city on a hill.

Genres: Travel, Nonfiction, History, Reference, Guidebook

240 pages, Paperback

First published April 27, 2014

Reviews

[Britt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not your typical tourist guide, because as the title indicates, it's detailed in historical facts about DC attractions. I lived in DC for 4 years and there was a ton of info in here I didn't even know. As a result, it's great for a first time visitor as well as the more regular visitor.

[April Kniess · Rating 5 out of 5]

Washington, DC certainly has more to offer to the typical tourist than just the White House and the Mall. I wish I had read Fortier's book a few years ago prior to visiting DC for the first time. Although I certainly enjoyed everything on The Mall, the Capitol tour and the White House as well as the Tidal Basin, Arlington Cemetery and several monuments, I want to return to visit some of the many houses/museums in the area. Fortier's book tells you everything you want to know to be prepared for a fun-filled and productive stay in the DC area. Not only does she list the address of each site/building, but she gives the website information, phone numbers, what transportation to take, parking status and entry/fee information. While reading her book, I earmarked sites I definitely do not want to miss during my next visit in the area. Koodos for a well written guide that is helpful and a bit of history background as well.

[Hank Pharis · Rating 3 out of 5]

(NOTE: I'm stingy with stars. For me 2 stars means a good book or a B. 3 stars means a very good book or a B+. 4 stars means an outstanding book or an A {only about 5% of the books I read merit 4 stars}. 5 stars means an all time favorite or an A+ {Only one of 400 or 500 books rates this!).

The author did a very good job combining a traveler's guidebook with the historical background and significance of most of the things to see in DC. Been there several times but still learned quite a bit.
Definitely recommended if planning a trip there (or just to review what you've seen in the past).

[Beattie · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good introduction to the DC area and some (very) general American history. At times the history covered at the beginning of each chapter didn’t seem to connect much with what was covered location/attraction wise. But overall it’s a decent primer. I liked how this was history focused instead of just hitting all of the touristy spots and how insight was given as to the significance of some of the locations!

[Dr. Kathy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Allison Fortier included many interesting facts in her book “ A History Lover’s Guide to Washington, DC.” I enjoyed her stories and her thorough research. I did not completely understand, however, how she decided to group the many aspects of touring DC into cohesive groupings. I guess I do not believe they are cohesive. There is so much to do in DC that I can understand her confusion!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very interesting guide

This book had so many wonderful tidbits of information about the various things to see in DC. I would love to see an updated/revised version - I think this one dates to 2014? Much has changed especially with COVID restrictions. Definitely will keep this handy as we head for our trip!

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book gives background history on sites in DC. It was interesting and informative but I was disappointed it did not go far enough. It was a quick read.

[Ann M. Phillips · Rating 4 out of 5]

Educational read

I liked the historical aspect of information provided. Would have appreciated more photos and stories. Learned plenty and will refer back to book for information.

[Matthew Hall · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great read

Insightful and a must read for anyone headed to our nation's capital. Recommend reading before taking your trip. Five stars

[Kevin Christiansen · Rating 3 out of 5]

A helpful guide that needs a little updating.

[Lisa Blair · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great guide on the historical significance of statues, buildings, land and people who helped make Washington DC what it is today.

A great resource for planning a visit as it covers pertinent information for today: name, address, phone number, visiting hours, cost, parking, metro station nearby, etc.

It also addresses any special circumstances like requesting permission eight weeks in advance or permission through a congressman or if its first come first serve on the day you visit.

[Bladestryke · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very interesting book for those planning a trip to DC. This book even gives you links to all the sites websites for more info. A must read.

[Lea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good brief history with suggested places to stop. I like that it included metro stops and websites for additional information. It also lets you know what things need advance tickets.