A Magnificent Guide to Mastering Passport DC’s Free Embassy Tours –
Maximize Your Cultural Experience at the Upcoming Around the World Embassy Tour
The annual Around the World Embassy Tour is a unique “only in Washington” event where dozens of embassies open their doors for free over two weekends. This year’s tour takes place on April 29th and May 6th, offering a chance to explore art, cuisine, music, and dance from countries like Armenia, Jamaica, Thailand, and Zambia without leaving D.C.
“It’s an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself in different cultures and gain a deeper understanding of the world around us,” says Martha Wilkinson, a local travel expert. “Where else can you play cornhole in the Norwegian Embassy’s garden or sample traditional dishes from across the globe?”
Planning Ahead for a Successful Embassy Tour
With the event’s popularity, long lines are common at well-known embassies like South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Thailand. Arrive before 10 a.m. to increase your chances of admission if there’s a must-visit destination.
For a more diverse experience, pick a neighborhood like Massachusetts Avenue near Scott Circle or the embassies dotted around Kalorama. “Research the participants within a few blocks,” advises Wilkinson. “If one line is too long, you can easily move to a nearby, less crowded embassy.”
Veteran attendees recommend the embassies clustered around International Drive and International Court in Van Ness, which are closer together and often easier to access than those on Embassy Row.
Maximizing Your Embassy Exploration
Many embassies offer outdoor performances, lion dances, or food samples to entertain waiting crowds. Start at embassies farthest from the Metro station, as people tend to queue at the first ones they encounter.
Serious explorers should skip brunch and arrive early, as lines grow longer throughout the day. “Getting to five or six embassies is a solid day of sightseeing,” says Wilkinson.
Wear comfortable shoes, carry a phone charger and reading material, and have cash or a credit card for food and drink purchases. Some embassies transform into lively street parties, like the Dominican Republic last year with a DJ and dancing.
Experiencing Authentic Cultures
While popular embassies can be crowded, smaller destinations often provide more intimate cultural experiences. At the Embassy of Gabon, visitors learned about the uses of elaborate masks and the country’s extensive national parks.
“The smaller embassies offer a chance to really connect with the culture and gain insights you might miss at the larger, busier locations,” notes Wilkinson.
Souvenir passports are available for collecting stamps, though there’s no reward for completing the book.
The Around the World Embassy Tour is part of the month-long Passport DC program, which includes the European Union Open House on May 11th.