Raise a glass to freedom and celebrate the legacy of Alexander Hamilton with these Hamilton-Inspired things to do in Washington DC.
Although he never strolled the streets of DC (he was killed 2 years after it became the capital), the rest of the cast— er important historical figures such as Eliza Hamilton, Rochambeau, Marquis de Lafayette, Thomas Jefferson, and George Washington all end up in the Washington, DC.
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8 Hamilton-Inspired Things to do in Washington, DC
See how Hamilton was able to RISE UP During His Days as a Soldier
Alexander Hamilton had a distinguished military career that began during the American Revolutionary War. At the young age of 19, he became a captain of artillery and served under George Washington. He played a pivotal role in several battles, including the Battle of Monmouth and the decisive Battle of Yorktown where he led a daring charge on British forces. Following the war, he continued to serve in the military as an aide-de-camp to Washington, helping to put down the Whiskey Rebellion. Hamilton’s military career enhanced his reputation and leadership abilities and helped him become one of America’s founding fathers.
Today you can visit the Anderson House on Embassy Row in Dupont Circle to get a glimpse of his military career. The house features a portrait of Hamilton that was donated by his family. The home also contains several items belonging to the Society of the Cincinnati, a guild that Hamilton belonged to. The guild was devoted to upholding the ideals and fellowships of the Continental Army.
Get a Glimpse of His Work
The National Archives Museum holds many our the United State’s most important documents, including the U.S. Constitution. The Constitution was signed by 39 delegates, including the NY Delegate, Hamilton. His signature is on the right-hand side of the last page.
The Archives is also home to the Alexander Hamilton Papers, a collection of public papers and personal letters to members of the Hamilton and Schuyler families, Thomas Jefferson, James Monroe, the Marquis de Lafayette, John Adams, George Washington, and more. In the collection you’ll also find drafts of some of his works.
The collection has nearly 12,000 items dating as far back as 1708, and documents Hamilton’s life from his boyhood in St. Croix to his career as a legislator, US Secretary, and lawyer up to his death in 1804.
See the First Stamps that Feature A. Ham
The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum is home to an original set of 1870 postage stamps featuring Alexander Hamilton. The 30¢ stamp ran from 1870 until 1890. The stamps, known as “The Officials” were used for use by the Executive departments of the Federal government.
When he served as the Treasury Secretary, Hamilton issued “sin taxes” on tea, coffee, beer, wine and distilled spirits. The museum holds a 1870s beer tax stamp in its collection.
Here Comes the General!
Hamilton served as General George Washington’s right-hand man. Washington lived at Mount Vernon, just outside of Washington, DC. Step into the General’s boots in Be Washington: Its Your Turn to Lead, a digital first-person experience starring Chris Jackson, the gent who played Washington in Hamilton.
You can also learn about the relationship between the two forefathers with the Hamilton The Musical Tour offered at Mount Vernon.
Take a Tour of the Treasury Building
Alexander Hamilton served as the nation’s first Secretary of Treasury. Although he never operated out of the current Treasury Building, the building stands in his honor. You can get a glimpse of the Hamilton statue standing outside in the south plaza.
The Department of Treasury also offers tours of the building. You must register in advance with your Congressional Office. Learn more about how to book a tour.
Take the Ultimate Walking Tour
Tours By Locals offers a 1/2 day tour of DC for fans of Hamilton. The tour beings at the Lincoln Memorial and visits the Washington Monument (as a nod to Eliza Hamilton , the White House, and the US Capitol Building.
Have Another Round (Tonight)
Several eateries and bars have a Hamilton theme. Grab a Hamilton Mule at The Hamilton restaurant and bar. There’s nothing rich folks love more than spending the evening at Hamilton Hotel.
See DC Through Eliza Hamilton's Eyes
Although A. Ham never settled in the District, his wife, Eliza, was no stranger to the capital. She moved to DC as a widow and lived at a house on H Street until she died at the age of 97.
While living in DC, Eliza and her neighbor, Dolley Madison, raised funds for the Washington Monument. She was also no stranger to Capitol Hill and the surrounding area.
Relics of Eliza’s time in DC can still be found in her home, Tudor Place. Here you’ll find needlework, an engraved portrait, and other mementos.
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Be sure to check out our family-friendly 4 Day Washington DC Itinerary and our Ultimate Guide to the National Mall and Beyond to help you plan your trip. We’ll also show you how to score a tour of the White House.
