Off the Mall Tours: Black Broadway queer history tour

Off the Mall Tours, in partnership with the Rainbow History Project, presents a guided walking tour exploring the queer history of Black Broadway in Washington, DC’s U Street Corridor, specially offered for DC Pride. This two-hour journey traces the secretive yet vibrant queer community that flourished alongside the Harlem Renaissance, the Pansy Craze, and the Civil Rights Movement, from Prohibition through the mid-20th century. The tour begins at the historic Howard Theatre and concludes at Thurst Lounge, DC’s only queer Black-owned bar. A portion of proceeds benefits the Rainbow History Project, which collects and promotes the history of the region’s diverse LGBTQ+ communities.

When: Friday, June 12, 2026, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Location: The Howard Theatre, 620 T Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20001. The tour ends at Thurst Lounge, 2204 14th Street, NW.

Tickets: $30 per person.

Run time: 2 hours.

Highlights: The tour is in person and lasts two hours. Refunds are available up to one day before the event.

Ages: Not specified; likely suitable for adults and older teens given the historical content.

Organizer: Off the Mall Tours, with partner Rainbow History Project.

Note: This is a walking tour; comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended. The tour covers a historic corridor with outdoor stops.