Secret History of History (SHH) Walking Tour

Uncover 250 years of real spy stories on the streets of our nation’s capital.

Get outside and spy! On the Secret History of History (SHH) walking tour, you can learn about the past 250 years of spying in America along a one-mile path through the heart of DC. This self-guided, app-based tour is free to download and begins in front of the International Spy Museum and ends at Freedom Plaza.

Tour length  
The tour lasts  around  one hour. You will walk approximately one mile – starting at the Spy Museum and ending a few blocks east of the White House at Freedom Plaza. 

Age recommendation  
The content of the tour is best suited for ages 9 and up. The tour includes stories and historical content that may be inappropriate for younger children; parental discretion is advised. 

Devices and headphones  
One internet-enabled device (smartphone or similar) is recommended per guest completing the tour. Listening to the audio will be easiest with headphones for each person. You may also listen through the ear speaker in your device if you do not have headphones. The app will not play the audio over your device’s loudspeaker. 

Get the app. ​Now Available on:  

While downloading the app is recommended for the best experience, you can also access the tour via your web browser.

Safety first  
This walking tour takes place on the busy National Mall and in bustling adjacent neighborhoods. Pay attention while crossing streets, avoid stopping in places that block pedestrian or bicycle traffic, and like any good spy, be aware of your surroundings.  

Please note: This free tour takes place completely outside of the International Spy Museum and does not include entry to the Museum’s exhibits.