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30 essential places to visit in D.C. right now

From lesser-known museums to some of the region’s finest parks

There are parts of Washington, D.C. that tourists never visit and, more often than not, never even know about. Are they worth visiting, though? Heck yeah.

Below, Curbed compiled 30 must-see locations in the District that are less on the touristy side (the Washington Monument, the White House, etc.) and more about what makes D.C. home for more than 700,000 people . These sites give you an up-close look at the nation's capital, its landscape, and its residents—beyond what visitors normally see. Happy hunting.

• Looking for things to do with kids this fall? Here’s a list of family-friendly places to visit in and around the Beltway .
• Speaking of fall, are you ready to gawk at some foliage but don’t know where to go? Leave it to us.
• Getting in the mood for Halloween? Visit the District’s most haunted locations and the area’s best pumpkin patches .
• Need a new couch or table? See our map of the best furniture and design stores in the area.
• Need to pick up some fruit and veggies at a local farmers market ? We’ve got you covered.
• Want to grow your own produce instead? Sign up for one of the city’s community gardens .
• Now take a hike . Literally.

Rock Creek Park

At more than 1,700 acres, Rock Creek Park is more than twice the size of New York’s Central Park. It’s also one of America’s oldest city parks , established in 1890 by Congress. Enjoy the shade and the streams, and keep an eye out for woodland creatures.

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Washington National Cathedral

Even if you’re not religious or spiritual, you can still appreciate how ornate and immense the National Cathedral is. It’s the fourth-tallest structure in D.C., the sixth-largest cathedral in the world. and the second-largest cathedral in the U.S. It also has a Darth Vader sculpture on the top of its west tower.

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Smithsonian’s National Zoo

At no cost, you can see pandas nearly every day of the year. The National Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., and it houses a variety of species including cheetahs, elephants, and apes. The zoo also hosts events for humans of all ages, like ZooLights and Brew at the Zoo .

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Dumbarton House

The historic Dumbarton House was repaired and reprogrammed from October 2016 to June 2017. Now reopened, the charming Federal building boasts architecture, decorative furniture, paintings, textiles, silver, and ceramics, all dating back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries .

Theodore Roosevelt Island

You can relax or hike at Theodore Roosevelt Island , a living memorial to America’s 26th president located on the Potomac River. The car-free island is somewhat secluded and is great to view from a kayak or canoe.

Anderson House

When this mansion was constructed in 1905 as the winter residence of a U.S. diplomat, it was known as one of the city's most fashionable. The 50-room home offered a walled garden, tennis court, and three-story carriage house. Presidents William H. Taft and Calvin Coolidge were regular visitors. The property later reopened as a house museum in 1939.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

You don't need to cough up too much money to enjoy a performance at the Kennedy Center, the nation’s living memorial to President John F. Kennedy. Though big-ticket shows can carry a hefty price, the center offers free performances daily at the Millennium Stage , no tickets required. The center is set to expand in 2019.

The Phillips Collection

The Phillips Collection is a must-see for art lovers. In 1921, this Dupont Circle museum became the first museum of modern art in the U.S. Inside, you can find works from artists like Renoir, Rothko, and Monet.

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Meridian Hill Park

At the southern end of Columbia Heights , Meridian Hill Park—also known as Malcolm X Park—is a sight to behold. During the warmer months, the park offers a serene escape from the city with a tranquil waterfall and a regular drum circle. In the winter, it’s a great place to have a snowball fight.

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Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

This basilica in Brookland is the largest Catholic church in North America, one of the ten largest churches in the world, and the tallest habitable building in D.C. Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI, among other luminaries, have visited the church.

Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America

In Brookland , the public can discover this oasis of peace, home to a thriving Franciscan community. Guests are able to walk in for a tour, but groups of six or more require a reservation.

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Welcome to the only major museum in the world solely dedicated to women and their artwork. With approximately 4,500 works in the museum by over 1,000 women artists, visitors can learn a lot about significant artists like Mary Cassatt, Frida Kahlo, and Joana Vasconcelos.

Gravelly Point

Technically this park is located in Arlington, Virginia , but it's worth the bike ride or jog to go see. Prepare yourself a picnic and enjoy views of the District. Expect some noise, though: The park is right faces the runway of Reagan National Airport , so expect a plane to rush overhead every few minutes.

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

Adjacent to the West Building of the National Gallery of Art , a 6.1-acre block hosts a sculpture garden, a cafe, and a fountain used as an ice-skating rink in the winter. Touching the sculptures is forbidden, as is riding a bicycle or skateboard.

U.S. Botanic Garden

Near the U.S. Capitol, you can walk inside one of the oldest continually operating botanic gardens in North America . The garden features rare and endangered plants as well as roses, orchids, and fruit. Located outside is the Bartholdi Fountain , an elegant cast iron structure that stands 30 feet tall and weighs more than 15 tons. It was designed by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, the French sculptor behind the Statue of Liberty.

Culture House

Housed in a colorful former church, Culture House —formerly known as Blind Whino —is a nonprofit arts club and event space featuring exhibits, events, live performances, and artist workshops. It showcases some of the coolest local art in D.C.

The Yards Park

This park is relatively recent to the District and quite fun to visit. Along with several retail and restaurant options nearby, you can also enjoy the view of the Anacostia River, dip your toes in the pool, and have a picnic on the grass. Be sure to take a stroll along the award-winning, 200-foot  pedestrian bridge .

Shakespeare Theatre Company (Multiple Locations)

Each year, this award-winning company puts on myriad comedies and tragedies, by more playwrights than just the Bard. The group was formed in 1970 and operates both Sidney Harman Hall (610 F Street NW) and the Lansburgh Theatre (450 7th Street NW).

Eastern Market

In addition to fresh meats, cheeses, and produce, you can also find handmade items sold at Eastern Market, in Capitol Hill . At its flea market, jewelry, vintage records, and furniture abound.

Union Market

This unique food market in Northeast offers over 40 vendors as well as an Angelika Pop-Up with specialty film programming. Expect all sorts of events hosted at the market, including food festivals, yoga, and movie screenings.

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Atlas Performing Arts Center

When this site opened in 1938, it was one of the city’s earliest movie theaters. But during the 1968 civil unrest that rocked D.C., the site was damaged and closed. It reopened in 2006 as a vibrant performing arts space on H Street NE .

National Arboretum

The 446-acre arboretum hosts the columns that originally supported the U.S. Capitol building’s old East Portico. The site also features a major center of botanical research as well as a 390-year-old bonsai tree that survived an atomic bomb . What a great place to see foliage!

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

Managed by the National Park Service, this 700-acres site is perfect for scenic, quiet walks removed from city life. Expect an array of rare waterlilies and lotuses in addition to Kenilworth Marsh—the District’s only remaining tidal marsh.

Anacostia Park

Relax by the water, exercise at the fitness station, skate at the skating pavilion. There's so much to do at Anacostia Park, and it's all for free. Spanning over 1,200 acres, this is one of D.C.’s biggest parks, so you can easily find a place to unwind without having to worry about crowds.

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Hillwood Estate, Museum, & Gardens

Built in the 1920s, this 25-acre estate allows visitors to get an inside look at the former home of cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post. The former mansion houses a collection of imperial Russian and 18th-century French decorative art. Outside, there are green spaces that include a rose garden and a Japanese-influenced garden.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Situated on a hill in Historic Anacostia , the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site preserves the home the abolitionist icon occupied while living in D.C. Tours usually last about 1.5 hours and happen regularly. The site also offers one of the city’s greatest views of the National Mall and downtown .

President Lincoln's Cottage

Among other historic homes in the District, Lincoln’s Cottage, located east of Petworth on the grounds of the Old Soldiers’ Home, stands out for its tranquil setting. The home, where Lincoln lived for more than a quarter of his presidency, hosts tours and events, including weddings .

Entertainment & Sports Arena

Opened in Southeast on the St. Elizabeths East Campus last year, this events and concert venue is becoming more of a destination for cultural activities east of the Anacostia River. It also serves as a practice arena for the Washington Wizards and home court for the Washington Mystics.

Capital One Arena

During the fall, be sure to check out a Washington Wizards or Washington Capitals home game at Capital One Arena, located in Penn Quarter across from the National Portrait Gallery. There are a few concerts and other events scheduled at the arena as well.

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Georgetown Waterfront

Before it gets too cold, have a picnic or go for a jog or walk along the Georgetown Waterfront. It’s a peaceful place for pedestrians and you can admire the Francis Scott Key Bridge from the walkway.

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Washington, D.C.   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Kevin Voelker Photography | Getty Images

29 Best Things To Do in Washington, D.C.

Not surprisingly, many of Washington D.C.'s main attractions relate to its principal enterprise: politics. These include the White House and the U.S. Capitol , of course, as well as monuments and historic sites dedicated to notable figures who

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The Tidal Basin The Tidal Basin free

If you've never been to Washington, D.C. before, plan to spend some time along the Tidal Basin, an approximately 107-acre pond encircled by a 2.1-mile loop trail. Constructed to use the strong tides of the Potomac River to clear silt from the Washington Channel and to maintain steady water levels in the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pools , it now also serves as the backdrop to some of D.C.'s best-loved sites. Every spring, the Tidal Basin bursts with color as cherry blossom trees (gifted to the city from Tokyo ) bloom into cotton candy-colored tufts, and they attract hordes of visitors. The cherry blossoms typically hit peak bloom (defined as when 70% of the cherry blossoms are open) in March or April. The National Park Service website makes "bloom watch" updates on its website , where you can check the progress of the trees and see when peak bloom is expected for the year. You can follow the path that leads around the basin, but recent visitors recommended testing the waters in a paddleboat. Paddleboats are available to rent from spring until fall for $28 to $40 per hour (depending on the day) for a four-passenger boat. You can pick up a paddle boat every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. from the boat dock near Maine Avenue.

Even if you don't make it to town for the cherry blossoms, you won't want to miss the three major memorials that can be found along the Tidal Basin's shores: the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial . A memorial to Virginia Declaration of Rights author George Mason, also stands nearby.

The White House and the Washington Monument The White House and the Washington Monument free

Even if you're only in town for a short trip, visiting the Washington Monument and the White House – two marble symbols of the U.S. – is a must for any first-time D.C. visitor.

Standing just shy of 555 ½ feet, the Washington Monument was the tallest structure in the world at its completion in 1884. Nowadays, you can ride one of the monument's glass-encased elevators to the top observation deck to enjoy 360-degree views of the city, which invariably impress visitors. You can explore the attraction's exterior for free 24 hours a day, but National Park Service rangers are only available from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. to answer questions. The monument itself is open to visitors every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free timed-entry tickets can be reserved up to 30 days in advance via Recreation.gov . (There is a $1 nonrefundable service charge for each ticket.) Some same-day tickets are distributed daily on a first-come, first served basis. The ticket window opens at 8:45 a.m.; be prepared for a line. The Smithsonian Metro stop is closest to the monument. Visit the National Park Service's Washington Monument page for more information.

Lincoln Memorial Lincoln Memorial free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The best time to see this monument is after dark when it's illuminated. You'll still contend with crowds, but it will be worth it. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Although the Lincoln Memorial is just one of the District's many monuments, the larger-than-life Honest Abe is also among travelers' favorites. History buffs might enjoy reading Lincoln's  two famous speeches – the Second Inaugural Address and the Gettysburg Address – which are both etched into the memorial's north and south walls, respectively. Meanwhile, art history and architecture aficionados will enjoy admiring the building's striking design by Henry Bacon, complete with 38 Doric columns, 36 of which signify the states in the Union at the time Lincoln passed away.

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World War II Memorial World War II Memorial free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  While it's pretty during the day, the memorial is incomparable at night. Visit after sunset. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

The World War II Memorial was dedicated in 2004 to the 16 million American military members who served during World War II, including the thousands of individuals who lost their lives during the fight. A circle of 56 columns (representing the U.S. states and territories from the era) looks over the Rainbow Pool. At night, with lights shining, this memorial can be quite ethereal. The structure also has a wall of more than 4,000 gold stars – one for every 100 Americans who died in the conflict.

Vietnam Veterans and Korean War Veterans Memorials Vietnam Veterans and Korean War Veterans Memorials free

One of the most moving war memorials, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial – or "the Wall," as it's commonly referred to – is a long black granite wall with the names of more than 58,000 Americans who perished during the Vietnam War emblazoned on its surface. Recent travelers said their visits to the site were heartbreaking but thought-provoking and powerful, adding that even the toughest of individuals will find it hard to not become emotional while reading the wall's names. If you're looking for a specific person, keep in mind that the soldiers' names are ordered by the date they died, not alphabetically. Also, reviewers recommend using the attraction's name books and visiting during the day when there's ample sunlight.

When you're wandering along the eastern side of the Mall, venture to the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Paying tribute to the 1.5 million who served in "The Forgotten War," this privately funded site contains 19 stainless steel statues of soldiers in combat. In a triangular area known as the Field of Service, soldier statues march toward an American flag. Next to the soldiers is a 164-foot-long granite wall that pays homage to the unnamed troops that fought in the Korean War. Another highlight of the memorial is the Pool of Remembrance, a tranquil place for reflection. However, some past travelers cautioned that the memorial lacks signage, so younger visitors may not understand as much as those who lived through the war.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial free

Located on the northwest rim of the Tidal Basin , this 30-foot granite memorial pays homage to civil rights activist Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Everything from its address at 1964 Independence Ave. (a reference to the year the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed by Congress) to its design (which shows King emerging from a "mountain of despair," a reference to his "I Have a Dream" speech) are meant to reflect King's significant contribution to American history. What's more, this towering sculpture opened to the public in 2011, making it one of the newest memorials to open in the District. It is also the National Mall's first memorial dedicated to an African American.

Previous visitors raved about this memorial, adding that its powerful symbolism and beautiful design will give you chills. Plus, the sculpture's proximity to other memorials and monuments like the Korean War Veterans Memorial and the World War II Memorial make it convenient to reach. However, some reviewers wished there was more information on King's life, legacy and commitment to nonviolence around the statue.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum free

Note: Beginning in 2018, the museum embarked on an ambitious, multiyear, multimillion-dollar effort to renovate and reimagine all of its exhibits and put 1,400 new objects on display. It's reopening galleries in stages, but the IMAX theater is closed. Check the website to see what's on display before you go.

Attracting millions of people each year, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum contains a trove of celebrated aircraft, including Amelia Earhart's Lockheed Vega 5B, the Apollo 11 Command Module, Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis and Wilbur and Orville Wright's 1903 Wright Flyer, among others. Exhibits include flight simulators, an IMAX theater and the Einstein Planetarium. And parents beware: The gift shop is huge, so get ready for pleas from your kids. 

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture free

U.S. News Insider Tip: When hunger strikes, don't miss the Southern comfort offerings at Sweet Home Cafe, including fried chicken, collard greens and fish po'boys. The food is surprisingly delicious for a museum eatery. – Nicola Wood, Senior Editor

Designed to replicate the three-tiered crowns found in Yoruban art from West Africa, with bronze-colored latticework accents that honor the ironwork of enslaved African Americans, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture opened on the National Mall in 2016. More than 40,000 artifacts are displayed inside, including photographs of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other civil rights activists, boxing headgear and a robe used by Muhammad Ali, and a fedora once worn by Michael Jackson.

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United States Holocaust Memorial Museum United States Holocaust Memorial Museum free

You need to be in the right frame of mind to visit this sobering museum that focuses on the atrocities of the Holocaust. Through film footage, photographs and historical artifacts, it confronts subjects such as Hitler's rise to power, anti-Semitic propaganda and the horrors of the Final Solution. In addition to its permanent exhibition, "The Holocaust," the museum mounts several special exhibits. The facility also has a Hall of Witness, a three-story chamber beneath skylights; a Hall of Remembrance, a space with an eternal flame intended for individual reflection as well as public ceremonies; the Holocaust Survivors and Victims Resource Center; a library and a reading room.

Past travelers felt moved by this powerful museum but cautioned that its graphic collection is not ideal for younger children. (Indeed, the museum itself has age recommendations for its exhibits, signaling that some material may not be suitable for kids.) Many were especially impressed with its informative, thorough and respectful displays, adding that you can easily spend a few hours perusing its halls.

National Gallery of Art National Gallery of Art free

U.S. News Insider Tip: There are two things you won't want to miss here: the rooftop terrace, which affords panoramic views of the city and a photo op with a giant blue rooster, and the only Leonardo da Vinci oil painting on permanent exhibition in the U.S. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

If you're any kind of art connoisseur, you should make a stop at the National Gallery of Art. Composed of the East Building, which houses the gallery's more modern works (think: Henri Matisse and Mark Rothko), and the West Building, which contains the collection's older works (from Sandro Botticelli to Claude Monet), this museum has enough to fill an entire afternoon. Visitors often remark on the museum's large size and expansive collection. Pace yourself and maybe order a coffee, gelato or lunch at one of the gallery's five bars and cafes.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Even if you don't have time to catch a performance, head to the rooftop of the Kennedy Center to grab a drink and see an incredible sunset from the terrace. The on-site REACH art gallery and sculpture garden (free) are also fun to wander around. – Erin Evans

Many travelers highly recommend a visit to The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, built and named for America's beloved Camelot president. The Kennedy Center houses the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera and hosts numerous other dance, theater and musical performances throughout the year. Although ticket prices can run a bit high, you can take in a performance for free on the Millennium Stage. The Kennedy Center debuted a new permanent exhibit in 2022: Visitors can explore the free "Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy" immersive exhibit to learn about the relationship between Kennedy's presidency and the arts. The facility also includes the REACH, an indoor/outdoor complex comprising an art gallery, sculpture garden, classrooms and studios, lecture halls, a video wall and more interactive spaces.

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History free

With a collection of more than 147 million items, this robust Smithsonian museum on the National Mall attracts millions of visitors each year. Some of the museum's highlights include replicas of giant whales and other marine life in the Sant Ocean Hall. There's also a 2,000-pound, 52-foot model of a mega-tooth shark suspended above a dining area. In addition, you can venture to the Butterfly Pavilion for some fluttery fun with multicolored bugs. No stop at this museum would be complete without stopping by the David H. Koch Hall of Fossils – "Deep Time" exhibit features approximately 700 specimens, including Tyrannosaurus rex and triceratops dinosaurs. Other permanent exhibits explore human evolution, ancient Egypt and geology, among other topics.

Although this museum is especially appealing to families, past visitors said there's something for everyone here. However, the property can get quite crowded on weekends, holidays and during the busy summer season, so consider arriving on a weekday or in the offseason to avoid crowds. Recent museumgoers also suggested saving some time for the Hope Diamond, which is on display in the geology exhibit.

Washington National Cathedral Washington National Cathedral

U.S. News Insider Tip: Opt for a tour instead of exploring on your own, especially if you want to spot some of the cathedral's weirder gargoyles (like the famous Darth Vader). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Construction first began on this massive cathedral – the sixth largest in the world – in 1907, but it wasn't actually completed until 1990. (Though work on the building continues, including extensive and ongoing repairs after an earthquake damaged the structure in 2011.) Designed in the Gothic style, the Washington National Cathedral sits surrounded by gardens, creating a pleasant atmosphere for visitors. Take a stroll around the cathedral and peer at its high vaults and flying buttresses, keeping a close eye out for gargoyles (there's one of Darth Vader!). Step inside to admire the building's intricate stained-glass windows.

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Arlington National Cemetery Arlington National Cemetery free

Arlington National Cemetery sits in Arlington, Virginia, across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C. The cemetery spans about 1 square mile and serves as the final resting place for more than 400,000 service members, veterans and their families. Visitors should be sure to spend some time viewing the Memorial Amphitheater, the John F. Kennedy Gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Additionally, finding the grave of a notable veteran, family member or friend proves to be a powerful experience, according to visitors. The cemetery also has a downloadable app available to help you pinpoint the location of a grave.

Previous travelers appreciate the trolley tour from Arlington National Cemetery Tours, but they warn that the excursion is a bit pricey at $19.50 for adults, $10.75 for children ages 4 to 12 and $15 for seniors ages 65 and older. (There are discounted prices for service members, veterans and their families.)

Planet Word Planet Word

The world's first voice-activated museum, Planet Word strives to provide an immersive language experience through multiple exhibits and interactive galleries. Its word-centric exhibits span three floors and explore such topics as how people learn to speak, words’ origins, the world’s diversity of languages, famous speeches (which visitors can recreate using teleprompters), songs (which you can deliver karaoke style), jokes and how advertising uses language to persuade consumers. It also has a library, of course, as well as recording booths for listening to others reflect on the power of words and for preserving your story. Its Lexicon Lane contains multiple "puzzle cases" with themed word puzzles that can be solved using various clues deposited around the room. The museum, which opened in 2020, also has a restaurant and a gift shop.

Visitors frequently enthuse about this museum with adjectives like "clever," "creative," "fascinating" and "innovative." Many say its well-executed interactive activities make it an especially engaging place for families. Plan on spending at least a couple hours here.

U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress free

Arguably the most magnificent building in Washington, the U.S. Capitol is where visitors go to witness politics in action. Inside, members of both houses of Congress debate and create national policy and law, while visitors explore the building's north and south wings and circular centerpiece: the Rotunda. This iconic hall houses paintings, frescoes and sculptures depicting famous scenes from American history, not to mention an iconic cast-iron dome added to the structure in 1868.

Touring the Capitol is free of charge, but you'll need to make your reservation well in advance to ensure you get a tour slot (you cannot see the Capitol without booking a tour). The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center welcomes visitors Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year's Day and Inauguration Day). The tour does not include the Senate and House of Representatives galleries. Though some travelers express mixed reviews on whether the U.S. Capitol warrants the time and effort spent (both making reservations and going on the actual tour), most agree the site is well worth a visit.

National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum free

The National Portrait Gallery most notably houses images of every previous president, allowing visitors to reminisce about each political figure as they progress through the hall of portraits. The presidential portraits aren't alone, though, as the National Portrait Gallery also houses artistic renderings of notable American citizens ranging from sports figures to civil rights leaders. Moreover, the National Portrait Gallery only takes up half of the building and shares the space with the Smithsonian American Art Museum. This museum showcases rotating exhibits, which have previously exposed visitors to work created in response to the Vietnam War, glasswork, native women artists and more. The Smithsonian American Art Museum also operates a separate branch, the Renwick Gallery, devoted to contemporary craft and decorative arts.

Previous travelers insist that you take a few minutes to enjoy the shared Kogod Courtyard; its glass-paneled roof protects visitors from the elements while maintaining an abundance of natural light. These visitors also recommend that you take a few hours to explore both the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum, as there are a variety of interesting, small exhibits that are easy to miss if you're in a rush.

Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute free

More than 1,800 animals reside at the Smithsonian's 163-acre National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, from Asian elephants to cheetahs to sea lions. Look up every now and then as you stroll beneath the Orangutan Transport System (called the O Line): You may spot orangutans swinging along cables between steel towers. Or, if you're more intrigued by animals native to South America, head over to the Amazonia exhibit, home to creatures like titi monkeys and multiple frog species. The Great Cats exhibit features Sumatran tigers and African lions, among other feline predators. The zoo also has a playground and other attractions geared toward kids. If you time your visit for the holidays, swing by the zoo after dark for its ZooLights exhibition, when animal lanterns and lights bedazzle the park.

Recent visitors praised the zoo's pleasant surroundings and broad selection of species. Others warn future travelers to temper expectations: It's popular during the spring and summer seasons and there are long lines for (somewhat overpriced) food. Though some said the zoo could be more exciting and have a broader array of animals, keep in mind the more than 360 species are free to visit.

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U.S. National Arboretum and the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum U.S. National Arboretum and the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum free

Note: Due to the discovery of boxwood blight, the arboretum has closed its Boxwood Collection and adjacent Perennials Collection in order to prevent spread of the disease. It is closed until further notice.

Located northeast of downtown Washington, D.C., the United States National Arboretum rewards its visitors with beautiful outdoor spaces. The arboretum's outdoor collections range from dogwoods to azaleas to magnolias, but none of the plants are the area's primary attraction. Instead, most travelers make the trek here for the National Capitol Columns and the bonsai collection. The National Capitol Columns were built in 1828, decorated the Capitol building until 1958 and found their way to the arboretum in the 1980s. Now, the columns serve as an excellent place to snap photos or enjoy a picnic. The area's bonsai trees sit in the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, which boasts an astounding 300 miniature trees that staff members rotate through the museum's three pavilions and special exhibits gallery.

Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery Freer Gallery of Art and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery free

The Freer Gallery of Art and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery combine to comprise the Smithsonian National Museum of Asian Art. Opened in 1923, the Freer Gallery showcases American paintings from the late 19th century aesthetic movement, plus art from China, Egypt, India, Japan, Korea and the Islamic world. The Sackler Gallery opened in 1987 in the adjacent building, and it displays Thai earthenware, a Tibetan Buddhist shrine, Iranian artifacts and a host of rotating exhibits.

Past visitors particularly appreciated the Peacock Room, a gilded blue and gold room filled with frescoes of peacocks and pottery. The Sackler Gallery's underground exhibits also serve as a boon for sweltering tourists during the District’s hot summer months, which delighted recent travelers. The general consensus is that there are some remarkable works of art here.

Rock Creek Park Rock Creek Park free

A large urban park extending from the Washington, D.C.-Maryland border to the Potomac River, Rock Creek Park is a destination for an expansive array of outdoor activities. It has more than 32 miles of hiking trails and 13 miles of horseback riding trails while bicyclists can use its paved trails and roads. It has a nine-hole golf course and tennis courts. Fishing and paddleboating on the Potomac River are additional options. The park also boasts plenty of built things to see, such as scenic bridges, fountains and statues.

In addition to its more than 1,750 acres of outdoor space, the park encompasses multiple noteworthy structures. The Nature Center features a book- and game-filled children's Discovery Room, displays of live turtles and snakes and an observation deck. It provides hiking information and serves as the starting point of the half-mile Woodland Trail. The Peirce Mill operated as a grist mill from 1829 to 1897, making the historical building the last one of its kind in the area. The Old Stone House, constructed around 1766, ranks as the oldest building on its original foundation in Washington D.C. Its former kitchen contains historical exhibits.

National Archives Museum National Archives Museum free

A treasure trove of the United States' founding documents, the National Archives Museum is high on travelers' to-do lists and almost always has long entrance lines. But once you do get inside, you'll see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, along with one of the surviving copies of the Magna Carta. Other interactive and kid-friendly exhibits fill the museum, which is located off the Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Metro station on the Green and Yellow lines. Conveniently, the museum is also a popular stop on many of the city's best bus tours .

If you love history, you'll enjoy visiting this museum. Reservations are not required but are available. Reserving free passes on Recreation.gov's website comes with a service fee of $1.00 per ticket, but travelers say paying for advance tickets will save you from having to wait in a long line to enter. The museum encourages reservations during its peak season from March through Labor Day. Also, be aware that photography is not permitted anywhere inside the building.

9:30 Club 9:30 Club

U.S. News Insider Tip: If you're attending a concert at this venue, plan to arrive early, as the line can stretch around the block for popular artists. And if possible, avoid using the coat check (unless you want to be stuck waiting in line for hours after the show).  – Alissa Grisler, Associate Editor

The 9:30 Club has often been heralded as one of the best live music venues in America. The iconic club began earning its accolades around the time it opened in 1980, though, and has hosted groups like Nirvana, R.E.M., Red Hot Chili Peppers, Fugazi and Public Enemy, among others. While the 9:30 Club relocated and expanded over time, the club is still small enough to feel intimate. Its location near the bustling U Street corridor means that travelers will have no shortage of options for a pre-show dinner or a post-show drink (the staple Ben's Chili Bowl is just a few blocks away). Alternatively, the 9:30 Club offers a small menu of quesadillas, nachos and tacos if you want to eat there.

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Heurich House Museum Heurich House Museum

German-American immigrant and brewing entrepreneur Christian Heurich built the mansion that now bears his name in the late 19th century. Now, its stands as both an example of Richardsonian Romanesque residential architecture as well a testament to the business-owner's legacy. (It also, appropriately enough, serves as the headquarters of the District of Columbia Brewers Guild, a nonprofit trade organization serving the city's craft brewing industry.) The museum aims to preserve the building, its grounds and its collections while demonstrating the relevance of Heurich's version of the American dream to the modern day.

Visitors typically find the tour guides highly knowledgeable and enjoy seeing the fine period furniture and the well-preserved, intricately decorated structure.

National Building Museum National Building Museum

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The permanent exhibits are a bit technical, but special exhibits are accessible (and often hands-on!) for everyone, regardless of their knowledge of architecture. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Washington boasts countless examples of iconic architecture, but the National Building Museum fittingly stands out from the rest. The gargantuan former Pension Building, which completed construction in 1887, once housed the United States Pension Bureau as well as a variety of political events like inaugural balls. In 1985, the building completed its transition into a museum, and it was officially renamed the National Building Museum in 1997. Currently, the museum showcases various interesting intersections of architecture and design throughout American history and culture via approximately 100,000 photos, 130,000 architectural drawing and prints, and more than 20,000 objects ranging from building materials to toys.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site Frederick Douglass National Historic Site free

Like other parts of the South, the Washington metropolitan area – which includes Maryland, Virginia and Washington, D.C. – was once home to numerous plantations that profited off the labor of enslaved African Americans. To learn more about one of the region's most famous former slaves, visit the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in the district's Anacostia neighborhood.

At this historical site, you'll learn all about Frederick Douglass, who had been born into slavery in 1818 who fled from Maryland to New York City in 1838. After becoming a free man, Douglass devoted his life to speaking against slavery, producing abolitionist newspapers and writing about his experience as a slave. In 1872, Douglass and his then wife, Anna, moved to Washington, D.C. The couple moved into the house known as Cedar Hill in 1878. After the death of his first wife in 1882, Douglass married Helen Pitts in 1884 and continued to live in the house until his death in 1895.

The Mansion on O Street The Mansion on O Street

Read More »

United States Botanic Garden United States Botanic Garden free

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14 Best Things to Do in Washington, DC

By Adele Chapin

There's the DC you see on C-SPAN footage and blaring cable news clips. Then there's DC that residents know, the livable city where you can spend a Saturday exploring indie boutiques, cool restaurants and breweries, and amazing concert venues. Your visit to America's capital city can include both sides of town, seeing awe-inspiring museums and memorials—or trying to find a presidential motorcade if you're a "West Wing" super fan. Next up, see a free concert at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage, hear the birds chirp in one of The District's many parks (both wild and manicured), or even see the sights from the Potomac River on a water taxi. Need more ideas? Here's our list of the best things to do in Washington, DC, both on and off the beaten path.

Read our complete Washington, DC, destination guide here .

Every review on this list has been written by a Condé Nast Traveler journalist who knows the destination and has visited that activity. When choosing things to do, our editors consider landmarks and experiences that offer an insider’s view of a destination, keeping authenticity, location, service, and sustainability credentials top of mind. This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

National Museum of African American History and Culture Arrow

It’s hard to imagine improving upon the grandeur of the historic National Mall , miles of greenery surrounded by world-class monuments and museums. But in September 2016, the Smithsonian's National Museum of African American History and Culture did just that. This relatively new addition to an iconic landscape houses artifacts, photography, and other media that reflect African American culture and experiences. Here you’ll find Harriet Tubman’s personal hymnal and silk lace and linen shawl, a bill of a sale for a young enslaved girl, Louis Armstrong’s trumpet, photos capturing the participation of Black women during the Civil Rights Movement, and a collection of costumes from ‘The Wiz’. Given the scope and size of the space (85,000 square feet), this is best saved for a day when you have plenty of time to devote.

Ben’s Chili Bowl Arrow

You can’t miss Ben’s Chili Bowl. The restaurant’s bright red and yellow facade on the U Street Corridor proudly broadcasts itself as a Washington landmark. The institution is best known for its chili dogs and half-smokes—half-beef, half-pork smoked sausage smothered in chili—and has presided over U Street since it opened in 1958. Much has changed in 60 years: U Street has become a hipster hotspot and Ben’s has expanded to five other locations, including one inside Washington Reagan National Airport and another at Nationals Park . Former President Obama has been known to dine at Ben’s; his likeness graces a mural on the side of the building. Prepare yourself for an animated, if not downright rowdy, crowd. By day, the restaurant is a popular tourist destination—everyone is here to try a half-smoke—and by night it’s a perfect late-night spot to recover from an evening at one of U Street’s many bars.

Union Market Arrow

Washingtonians love spending their weekends at Union Market, in the industrial NoMa neighborhood, a sweeping space filled with local food vendors, restaurants, and shops. Union Market offers more than enough to meet anyone’s needs. Get fish and chips from The District Fishwife, eat Venezuelan at Arepa Zone, or go for Southern comfort food like étouffée from Puddin'. For a sit-down meal, try the Michelin-starred Masseria or St. Anselm, a perfect steakhouse from restaurateur Stephen Starr. For drinks, head up to Hi-Lawn, a rooftop bar and open-air eatery. Or hit mixologist Gina Chersevani's two outposts: the New York soda shop–inspired Buffalo & Bergen and carefree dive bar Last Call. And if you’re in the mood to explore Latin American culture, you’re in luck, thanks to the nearby 20,000-square-foot Latin market, La Cosecha.

Old Post Office Tower Arrow

This massive Romanesque Revival building completed in 1899 is covered with arches and turrets. It's a formidable presence on Pennsylvania Avenue, nicknamed America's Main Street. The building is now the grand home of the Waldorf Astoria Washington D.C. (the tower entrance is at the back of the hotel next to Sushi Nakazawa). This is also DC's second tallest structure, according to the GSA, second only to the nation capital's most recognizable building: the Washington Monument. But the Old Post Office Tower is much lower-profile for the tourist hordes, which makes a visit here a cheat code for taking in a sweeping view of the Washington skyline. No tickets or reservations are needed for a trip to the 270-foot observation deck within the clock tower.

Sarah James

Caitlin Morton

Jahnavi Bhatt

Alex Erdekian

Phillips Collection Arrow

In a town full of museum after-hours parties, the Phillips Collection's monthly "Phillips After 5" is one of the longest-running events of its kind and still hits it out of the park. For example, a party celebrating an exhibit with French post-Impressionist artist Pierre Bonnard partners up with the Embassy of France to bring in a live band, snacks like spring vegetable galettes with edible flowers, and a floral arranging workshop.

Busboys & Poets Arrow

It’s hard not to be taken with Busboys and Poets, particularly if you have an affinity for cozying up with a compelling book and a steaming cup of coffee. Part restaurant, bookstore, and hub for driving social change, the establishment is eclectic and comfortable, outfitted with murals and art depicting activists and progressive movements. The crowd varies, based on time of day, event lineup, and what’s going on in the world when you visit. Weekend mornings can be lively, with folks tucking into a DC favorite brunch .

The Yards Park Arrow

If you're looking to hike and disappear into nature within the city limits, head to Rock Creek Park . But for an outdoor escape that combines showy landscape architecture with DC's peaceful Anacostia riverfront, check out the Yards Park. This very modern urban park is an anchor of the redeveloped Capitol Riverfront neighborhood, turning a former industrial space into a slice of greenery for residents and visitors to enjoy amidst the office towers—with amenities like a dog park and water features that little ones can splash around in during the summer. The futuristic Yards Park Bridge, a pedestrian bridge with striking, swirling steel supports that glows at night, tempts photographers to capture a unique angle. The bridge is located near the park's Canal Basin and Waterwall, a unique water feature where kids are invited to wade and play in the 11-inch deep water on hot days.

Eastern Market Arrow

Open since 1873, Eastern Market is a National Historic Landmark and a beloved local institution. Long before farmers markets cropped up in every neighborhood across the city, Eastern Market was the go-to place for fresh produce, meat, cheese, and baked goods—and still is. One can easily spend an afternoon wandering the stalls, which are packed with fresh produce, cheeses, meats, poultry, and flowers, as well as items like shaved ice snowballs, canned pickles, and Filipino food. If you’re really hungry, sit down for a meal at Market Lunch, a 46-year-old institution famous for its blueberry-buckwheat pancakes. On weekends, local artists sell handmade wood carvings, letterpress prints, soaps, and the like. A community staple for more than 140 years, Eastern Market offers a fascinating look into local life DC—beyond the buzzy new restaurants and the politics.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Arrow

The John F. Kennedy Center is a sight to behold, inside and out. Set on the banks of the Potomac River—between the Watergate Hotel and the Lincoln Memorial —this performing arts center is stately and iconic; it's the true monument to J.F.K. Edward Durrell Stone designed the modern marvel, whose halls are decorated with plush red carpets, enormous crystal chandeliers, and a bevy of state flags; its rooftop restaurant is a favorite place for Washingtonians to watch the sunset with a cocktail or coffee. The National Symphony Orchestra and Washington National Opera both call The Kennedy Center home. In September 2019, the Kennedy Center doubled down on its commitment to the arts with the opening of The REACH. Filled with intimate performance spaces and lecture halls, the expansion aims to create deeper connections between performers and audiences.

National Mall Arrow

Each year, millions of people come to see the monuments and memorials that dot the more than 1,000 acres of the National Mall, which is flanked at one end by the U.S. Capitol Building and at the other end by the Lincoln Memorial, where Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his famous “I Have a Dream" speech in 1963 (his own memorial is a half-mile away). At the center of the park, dubbed “America’s Front Yard," the Washington Monument honors the first U.S. president and the founding of American democracy. Though the National Mall stars in myriad movies and TV shows, it's far more awe-inspiring in real life. From the solemnity at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to the stirring energy at the Martin Luther King, Jr., Memorial, you’ll find that each monument or memorial has its own atmosphere. In other words: Prepare to feel all the feels.

Nationals Park Arrow

Nationals Park, home to the Washington Nationals, is one of the finest baseball stadiums in America; from the upper decks, you just might spy the top of the U.S. Capitol Building . While you’re cheering on the Nats, you can enjoy a burger from Shake Shack, brews from more than a dozen local breweries, or a half-smoke from Ben’s Chili Bowl , a local institution. Since it opened in 2008, the ballpark has become the glittering centerpiece of a revitalized Southeast Waterfront—so don't forget to check out the neighborhood while you're here.

Shop Made in DC Arrow

Shop Made is stocked with the work of the best artisans and makers from across Washington, DC, including prints, photography, ceramics, jewelry, clothing, toys, kitchen goods, clothing, and food. The boutique bursts with local pride, making it a perfect way to get to know the city while wandering around Georgetown. It also hosts regular events—like pottery painting sessions and calligraphy workshops—so be sure to check the website before your visit. The shop has been so successful, there are now six other locations throughout DC.

Rock Creek Park Arrow

Sprawling out across a whopping and wild 1,754 acres of public land, Rock Creek Park is one of the most awe-inspiring destinations in DC Officially authorized in 1890, it was the third national park to be designated by the federal government. It has something for everyone: a Nature Center for explorers; running, biking, and hiking trails for fitness enthusiasts; equestrian, golf, and tennis centers for sports lovers; and picnic spots, historic forts, a 19th-century gristmill, and concert venues for everyone else. While the verdant grounds are a peaceful escape from urban life, it also offers a planetarium—the only planetarium in the National Park Service, in fact—and the Smithsonian National Zoo . Both are free.

The Spice Suite Arrow

This Takoma-area specialty shop is as eclectic, warm, and creative as its entrepreneurial founder, Angel Gregorio. Step in, and you might feel like you’re in the self-taught cook, mother, and activist’s own kitchen. At any given time, you’ll be able to select from more than 75 different food products and 23 kitchen accessories to outfit your own cooking space. The store is filled with glass jars whose labels read of interesting blends, including black cardamom, as well as red curry from Zanzibar.

Attucks Adams: “U Street: The Art & Soul of Black Broadway” Arrow

Tim Wright, the owner of Attucks Adams, is the host of this tour that dives into why U Street earned its nickname of Black Broadway, complete with a 40-song playlist you'll hear as you walk. It's an inside look at this vibrant neighborhood: the story begins back in 1867 with the founding of Howard University and covers up until the go-go music scene of today. The tour often spans small groups, and you'll definitely want to reserve a spot. Howard Theatre, the grand, circa-1910 building where jazz great Duke Ellington once played, is a fitting starting point. The overarching theme of the U Street tour hits home how Black people had to recreate the institutions they were locked out due to racism and segregation, be that musical institutions or legal institutions and beyond. Tour stops include the site of Washington Conservatory of Music and School of Expression, Ben's Chili Bowl, the site of the Waxie Maxie Record Store, and the section of the neighborhood known as Little Ethiopia.

Potomac Water Taxi Arrow

Why get stuck in gridlock or Metro delays when you could glide serenely along DC's Potomac River to your next vacation stop, with gorgeous views along the way? The Potomac Water Taxi connects Washington's bustling new Wharf development to three different locations: Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, and National Harbor in Maryland. These bright yellow boats depart throughout the day and are an easy, non-committal way to drift along seeing the sights (instead of booking a dinner cruise, for example). Two routes (Alexandria to Georgetown and the Wharf to Georgetown) offer an accompanying audio tour if you download the City Experiences App. Otherwise, relax and enjoy the ride.

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Ultimate Washington DC Bucket List – 101 Things to Do in DC

• In the City / North America / USA / Washington DC

Visiting Washington DC? Here is a bucket list to help you plan your trip!

Washington, D.C. has the distinct honor of being the nation’s capital. There is evidence of power and politics all over the city. Look no further than the White House, the Capitol Building, and the Supreme Court, all of which are located here. If you want to see government in action, you’ve come to the right place. Many government buildings offer tours. But it’s not all business. D.C has a really lively art, music, and food scene.

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Last Updated: March 2, 2024

− − Content Menu

• Tourist Attractions (1-18)
• Monuments + Memorials + Historic Sites (19-46)
• Museums (47-73)
• The Outdoors + Urban Parks (74-86)
• Shows + Venues (87-93)
• Shopping + Food (94-101)
• Map of Washington DC Attractions
• More Things to Do in DC (Seasonal)
• Essential Tips for First Timers

Planning Checklist

101 things to do in washington dc bucket list.

There are tons of museums and memorials for you to explore and many of them are free. You could spend days exploring the Smithsonian museums alone. As if that wasn’t enough, there are many different venues where you can see a live show. Below is a list of our favorite things to do in DC.

Tourist Attractions

Basilica of the national shrine of the immaculate conception.

It’s the largest Christian church in the U.S. and in North America and the second-largest church in the world.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing

Learn about US currency and see how millions of dollars are printed.

The Capital Wheel at National Harbor

See views of the Potomac River from 180 feet above.

Carousel at National Harbor

Americana-themed carousel with a children’s playground & picnic tables, right by the Capital Wheel. (currently closed)

Chinatown Arch

A traditional Chinese gate constructed in 1986.

Dumbarton Oaks

(Georgetown) See pre-Colombian and Byzantine art and artifacts and the mansion gardens.

Embassy Row

See ornate buildings for each foreign embassy.

“The Exorcist” Steps

(Georgetown) Cool to see if you’re in the area. Free to visit!

Federal Bureau of Investigation Tour

(Penn Quarter) Be sure to contact your congressional representative to be cleared first.

Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America

(Brookland) Take a stroll through the grotto and gardens.

Library of Congress

(Capitol Hill) Has great views of DC.

Riverboat Tour on the Potomac River

You can do a dinner cruise too.

Smithsonian Institution Building

(aka the Castle) + Enid A. Haupt Garden

The Pentagon Tour

Must  make reservations  at least 14 days in advance.

Tudor Place

Part of Martha Washington’s family’s estate.

Union Station

Great architecture, several shops and restaurants. You can also take the free circle bus at the station to the Mall.

The Washington Harbour

Grab a coffee and walk by the waterfront.

Washington National Cathedral

The Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington – Woodrow Wilson’s Marble Tomb and Helen Keller’s Ashes.

Monuments + Memorials + Historic Sites

Arlington memorial bridge.

A bridge connecting the Lincoln Memorial and Arlington Cemetery.

Arlington National Cemetery

(Arlington) Be sure to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Belmont-Paul Women’s Equality National Monument

(NPS)  This house was once the headquarters of the National Women’s Party.

Carter G. Woodson Home National Historic Site

(NPS)  Home to the first African American to document the history of African Americans.

Chesapeake & Ohio Canal National Historical Park (C & O Canal)

Lots of events throughout the year within the park.

Congressional Cemetery

(NPS)  Established in 1807. Walk through both local and national history.

Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site

(NPS)  The actual gun used by Boothe is on display in the basement museum.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

(NPS)  Open air memorial of FDR, located between the Jefferson and Martin Luther King Memorials.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

(NPS)  Tours are available by reservations. We suggest you make the reservation before visiting.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

(NPS)  Memorial of those served in the Korean War. Don’t miss the lief size statues of soldiers.

Lincoln Memorial + Reflecting Pool

(NPS)  A must-see in D.C. Enjoy a break on the steps as you look out at the Reflecting Pool.

Lyndon Baines Johnson Memorial Grove on the Potomac

(NPS)  Small memorial and green space.

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

(NPS)  Take a night tour and learn about MLK Jr.

Mary Mcleod Bethune Council House

(NPS)  House is open for tours from 10am – 2pm, Thursday through Saturday.

National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial

Located by section of the Pentagon where the plane hit.

National Mall

(NPS)  About 2 mi, stretch by most of the monuments and memorials.

Pennsylvania Avenue National Historic Site

(NPS)  Six presidential funeral processions had traversed this area.

President Lincoln’s Cottage at the Soldier’s Home

Where he lived and worked for over a quarter of his presidency.

President Woodrow Wilson House

Well preserved home, reservations are recommended for house tour.

Senate and House Office Buildings

You need your government STAR ID to enter.

Supreme Court

Walk around the public areas and take in the sheer magnitude of the marble hallways.

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

(NPS)  There is a museum below the memorial.

The U.S. Capitol Visitors Center / Capitol Tour

Be sure to book your tour time online before visiting.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

(NPS)  Located right by the Lincoln Memorial.

Washington Monument

(NPS)  Tickets are required to ride the elevator to the 500 foot observation deck.

World War I Memorial

(NPS)  Located in Pershing Park.

World War II Memorial

(NPS)  A grand monument steps away from the Washington Monument.

White House + President’s Park

(NPS)  White House Visitors Center

See More: Your Complete List of 400+ National Park Units in the US

Arts and Industries Building

(Smithsonian) Interior is closed, but you can appreciate the architecture and explore the area around the building. (temporarily closed)

Dea Museum and Visitors Center

(Arlington) Go see their bong collection.

Folger Shakespeare Library

(Capitol Hill) Catch a play at the small stage inside the library.

Freer Gallery of Art / Freer and Sackler Galleries

Part of the National Museum of Asian Art. Don’t forget to check out the Peacock Room.

The Fridge DC

Art gallery specializing in street art –  murals are in the alley behind the oyster shop on 8th St SE.

Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens

Check out the world renowned collection of Russian and French decorative art, all curated by Post Cereal heiress, Marjorie Merriweather Post.

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

( Smithsonian) A short walk from the Capitol, eclectic statues and art exhibits.

International Spy Museum

Very informative and interactive museum. Great for both kids and adults alike.

The Mansion On O Street

Get tickets online to save $5.

The National Archives Building

See the original Declaration of Independence, Bill of Rights, Constitution and the 1297 version of the Magna Carta.

National BUILDING Museum

Learn about architecture, design, engineering, and more.

The National Gallery of Art + Sculpture Garden

See sculptures by Henry Moore, Rodin, Kusama, and more.

National Geographic Society – Grosvenor Auditorium / Museum

Tons of photographs on display, as well as rotating exhibits on scientific expeditions and explorations.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture

(Smithsonian) This museum is devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture.

National Museum of African Art

(Smithsonian) Small, yet captivating, African art collection from various African countries.

The National Museum of American History

Anything and everything American. We really liked seeing flag that flew over Fort McHenry that inspired the Star-Spangled Banner.

National Museum of the American Indian

Exhibits are grouped by tribe.

The National Museum of WOmen in the Arts

See the contributions of women in the arts, through permanent and rotating exhibits. They also have several events throughout the year.

National Portrait Gallery

The presidential portraits are located on the second floor.

The National Postal Museum

The volume of stamps on display is enormous! Cool to see, especially if you’re a collector.

Learn about the first amendment and importance and evolution of a free press.

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Open until 7pm, which is later than most Smithsonian museums.

Renwick Gallery

Also part of American Art Museum but at a different location.

Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum (NASM)

(2 locations) One in DC + Steven F. Udvar Hazy Center aka Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, VA.

National Museum of Natural History

(Smithsonian) Awesome collection of very rare, real dinosaur fossils.

Smithsonian National Zoological Park

Free admission, don’t miss the giant pandas!

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

There’s also a room where you can listen to audio recordings of survivors telling their stories.

See More: Complete List of National Parks by State

The Outdoors + Urban Parks

Anacostia river.

Kayaking, SUP, and even hydro-biking.

Constitution Gardens

(NPS)  Several quiet walking paths and pleasant gardens.

Georgetown Waterfront Park

Calmer and much more quieter part of the city.

Gravelly Point

Great place to see planes take off.

Great Falls Park

(NPS)  The entrance fee is $20 per car.

LAFAYETTE Square

(Downtown) Ideal spot for a good view of the White House.

Meridian Hill Park

Great to visit in the spring and summer when the fountains are on.

Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium

(NPS)  Easy walk for kids to enjoy nature.

Tidal Basin

Paddle boating.

Theodore Roosevelt Island

(NPS)  Enjoy nature and the great statue of Theodore Roosevelt.

United States National Arboretum

More locals go here and bigger than the Botanic Garden – free for visitors.

United States Botanic Garden

Very pretty, especially during Christmas time.

The Yards Park

(Navy Yard) Lots of restaurants by the park and various kid-friendly activities throughout the year.

Shows + Venues

9:30 club →.

Standing room only!

Arena Stage at the Mead Center for American Theater

Not a bad seat in the house! Great, high quality productions and performances.

Capital One Arena →

The Wizards and Capitals both play here.

Madams Organ

Come for a speciality drink at their quirky bar and see the interesting decor.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts →

(Foggy Bottom) Catch a free concert.

Warner THeatre →

See a perforamnce in this historic theatre.

Nationals Park →

Washington Nationals Baseball Game

Shopping + Food

Brewery tours at port city brewery.

Tour is $12  and includes a flight of 6 6 oz tasting pours, DC Brau Brewing Company (free brewery tours on Sat), Atlas Brew Works (free brewery tours on Saturdays, 100% solar powered), Capital City Brewing / Cap City (give tours upon request, or you can do a brewery tours through a third party).

The Bullpen at Half Street Fairgrounds

Live music, cheap drinks. Where most of National fans gather.

Capitol Hill Books

(Capital Hill) Used bookstore.

Eastern Market

Local food, fresh product and meat.

The Fish Market

Oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the US. Southeast Fish Market / Maine Avenue Fish Market.

Georgetown Flea Market

Fun place to browse for random trinkets and gifts.

(Georgetown) Several boutiques to peruse and restaurants to try.

Union Market

One of the best food halls in America by  Bon Appetit .

See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in Washington DC

Map of Washington DC

Seasonal + Special Events

Capital fringe fest.

(July) Fringe theatre, music, art, dance.

Filmfest DC

(mid-May) See independentand international films.

H Street Festival

(Fall) 11 blocks long and has 14 staging areas for musical performances, art, poetry, and more.

Ice Skating at the National Gallery of Art

(Winter) Skate rentals are available for just $4.

Jazz in the Garden

Every Friday at the Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art 5:30-8:30.

National CHerry Blossom Festival

(Spring) One of the prettiest places to see cherry blossoms in the U.S.

First Friday Dupont Galleries

Calling all art lovers! Stroll through these galleries for free on First Fridays.

See More: Where to See Cherry Blossoms in the US

Essential Tips for First Time Visitors

The best time to visit dc.

Visiting DC in the spring is great because the weather is really pleasant. Daytime temperatures range from the mid-fifties to the mid-seventies. I’ve always loved going there in the fall when the temperatures are milder as are the number of tourists. If you can’t get away then though and want to travel in the summer, be prepared for the heat – it ranges in the mid to high 80’s but has been known to creep even higher on occasion.

The city was once a swamp and though it looks a lot different than it used to, if you come in the summer, be prepared for the humidity! The winters can be unpredictable and brutal (ice, snow, sleet) but hotels tend to be a little cheaper in the winter because this is the off-season.

In DC, the locals call the train the Metro. If you say Subway, people will think you’re looking for the fast-food restaurant. Oh, and when you’re on the Metro, stay to the right and let people pass on your left. Otherwise, you may be in for some aggravated locals.

Lines are referred to by color: Red, Orange, Silver, Blue, Yellow, and Green. Look for tall brown columns with a large “M” identifying the station entrances. Colored stripes around the column show which lines serve the station. Train service is from 5 am on Weekdays to 12 am and 7 am on Weekends to 12 am. The city is in the midst of upgrading the system and we rode on several brand new railcars while we were in town.

To use the train, purchase a SmarTrip® card. It’s $2 to purchase a card and is rechargeable so don’t throw it away after you use it; keep on reloading it. You can use it for the bus (most of which are $2 per ride) and  the Metro  will help you plan the most efficient route and also tell you exactly how much it will cost.

If you can avoid having to drive into do DC, do just that. We recommend using public transportation (WMATA) whenever possible. Most locals use a combination of the bus, train, walking or a bike. It can be really busy in the morning and evenings when people are going to work but using public transportation can save you time and a headache because you won’t have to hunt for parking. There are 91 stations located in Virginia, Maryland and DC.

Best Places to Stay in Washington DC

• Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
• Download these helpful language apps .
• Find a great deal on DC hotels .
• Arrange a rental car for your trip.
• Book a tour for your visit.
• Get airport lounge access .
• Buy a travel charger to keep your devices charged.
• Get a new backpack for your trip.
• Buy a Washington DC travel guide .
• Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
• Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .

More RESOURCES

• Lonely Planet Washington DC
• StreetSmart Washington DC Pocket Map
• Official Guide to the Smithsonian

Are we missing anything? What would be at the top of your Washington DC Bucket List?

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Caroline + Erin

They are entrepreneurs and creatives who are good at finding adventure, both big and small, everywhere they go. The two have made a daily practice of sharing vulnerabilities, truth telling, and side splitting laughter. Both value being able to spend time getting to know a place but understand that life doesn’t always allow one to really settle into a place. So, they’ve honed the art of traveling fast and seeing and doing all of the things that an adventurer can do in a day or two. The couple lives in Asheville, North Carolina and spend as much time as possible in the mountains.

Follow along on Instagram , Twitter , and Facebook .

This Post Has 5 Comments

Washington DC is such a fun city to explore. I love how many different things there are to do, and how many museums are free.

THANK YOU for mentioning the “stand on the left, walk on the right” rule of thumb. Not many blogs mention it and it’s very important in this area.

Thanks, Shannon! We agree!

Thanks, Yolanda!

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The best museums in Washington, D.C. to visit year round

Art, sculptures, spy mobiles and famous slippers—the world's history and treasures are on display at the best museums in D.C.

History buffs, art enthusiasts and people simply interested in America's past need to look no further than the best museums in D.C. The nation's capital has much to offer in the way of cultural institutions, many of which are free to enjoy, we might add. You'll find most of them within walking distance to one another, if not a short ride or drive away. Washington, D.C.'s best museums are housed in some of the country's most remarkable buildings. So, if what's inside doesn't pique your interest, marveling at the architecture will keep you busy for many hours.

Visiting the best museums in D.C. can get a bit overwhelming, but we're here to guide you to the galleries and spaces you can't miss—whether you're into modern art, pop culture, African American history or old nuclear missiles. Trust us, there's something for you. 

RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best  things to do in Washington, D.C. 🏛️ The best  Washington, D.C. attractions 🍴 The best  restaurants in D.C. right now 🏘️ The best  Airbnbs in Washington, D.C .

This guide was written by Washington, D.C . locals.   At Time Out, all of our  travel guides  are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our  editorial guidelines . 

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Best museums in D.C.

1.  National Museum of African American History and Culture

• Things to do

The most iconic museum in D.C., the National Museum of African American History and Culture, has eight floors of fascinating historical exhibits. Here, you’ll find tributes to historical figures, moments, and events that have shaped America’s past and present day. You’d actually need a number of days to fully explore everything here, but you can still get a mighty lot done in a few hours (with a stop at the lovely Sweet Home Café for lunch). 

2.  National Museum of Asian Art

The National Museum of Asian Art is an incredibly thoughtfully put together group of exhibits to help visitors learn about Asian history in the US and beyond. From Chinese and Japanese contemporary art to artifacts from Ancient Egypt, this museum is a central hub for the Asian community and more in D.C. You can book self-guided visits, virtual tours or onsite tours, and there are kid-friendly days and tours too. 

3.  National Museum of the American Indian

Dedicated to America’s colonized and historically abused Indigenous people, the National Museum of the American Indian joined the Mall in 2004, bringing with it significant Native American artifacts and a renowned cafeteria. (The Mitsitam Native Foods Café offers a stunning collection of dishes inspired by Indigenous cuisines.)

The building is as much a part of the message as the exhibits. The details are extraordinary: dramatic, Kasota limestone-clad undulating walls resemble a wind-carved mesa. The museum’s main entrance plaza plots the star configurations on November 28, 1989, when federal legislation was introduced to create the museum. The museum is also curated with art in various mediums from a diverse assortment of Indigenous American nations. Artwork includes film, photography, pottery, textiles, woodworking, and much more. 

4.  Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

• Art and design

This spectacular, aggressively modern cylindrical building enlivens the predominantly neoclassical architecture lining the Mall. The structure, which was completed in 1974, was meant to house self-made Wall Street millionaire Joseph Hirshhorn’s collection of 20th-century paintings and sculptures. The museum now presents art in a range of media, including works on paper, painting, installation, photography, sculpture, digital and video art. The museum has housed some of the most-hyped visiting exhibitions on earth, from Ai Weiwei’s "Trace" to Kusama’s "Infinity Mirrors."   

5.  National Museum of African Art

This museum ’s entrance pavilion lies across the amazing Enid Haupt Garden, directly across from its twin, the Sackler. The museum opened in 1987, and its primary focus is ancient and contemporary work from sub-Saharan Africa. The museum draws visitors into different aspects of African art and culture. The rich ceremonial garb and textiles, including blankets made in Mali and embroidered hunters’ shirts, are a must-see.  

6.  Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum

The Renwick's informal motto might be "go big or go home." The museum is popular for its interactive exhibits and large-scale modern art pieces. Perhaps best known for its blockbuster, much-Instagrammed exhibits, 2015's "Wonder" and 2018's "No Spectators: The Art of Burning Man," this Smithsonian museum celebrates craft and design in the digital age. Other notable exhibits have included the quirky “Murder Is Her Hobby,” a collection of gruesome doll houses used to help detectives solve crime scenes. 

7.  National Air and Space Museum

Air and Space tops visitors’ to-do list, year in, year out. In the central Milestones of Flight Hall, towering U.S. Pershing-II and Soviet SS-20 nuclear missiles stand next to the popular moon rock station, where visitors can see a lunar sample acquired on the 1972 Apollo 17 mission. The 1903 Wright Flyer—the first piloted craft to maintain controlled, sustained flight (if only for a few seconds)—and Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St Louis are both suspended here. Carve out three to four hours and don't miss the test model of the Hubble Space Telescope, which is currently orbiting in space, taking snapshots of the universe. 

8.  National Museum of Natural History

The Museum of Natural History is iconic on the Mall. The museum boasts longtime favorites like the Hope Diamond, which has drawn crowds for over sixty years, and state-of-the-art exhibits like the Hall of North American Mammals. The recently renovated Hall of Fossils is a must-see— visitors may feel as if they've traveled back in time. But don't worry, these dinosaurs don't bite.  Dinosaur fossils are posed interacting with each other, even engaged in life-and-death battles.

9.  United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

This three-floor museum contains more than 900 artifacts and four theaters showing archival footage and survivor testimony from the Holocaust. Themes such as the murder of the disabled, Nazi eugenics and resistance, and Jewish resistance all present a chronological history of the event.

The objects and symbols make powerful impressions: thousands of camp victims’ shoes piled in a heap personalize the losses. While the main exhibition is suitable for children of 11 and over only, a specially designed children’s exhibition, “Daniel’s Story,” at ground level, is presented to children of eight and over and teaches about the Holocaust through the story of one boy. Guests should consider reserving their tickets beforehand since wait lines can be long. 

10.  Smithsonian American Art Museum/National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum take up two sides of the same interconnected building. Among the most notable portraits are Gilbert Stuart’s seminal “Lansdowne” portrait of George Washington and Andy Warhol’s iconic Marilyn. The Portrait Gallery houses the only complete collection of U.S. Presidents' portraits, while the American Art Museum houses prominent works by American artists, including Edward Hopper and Georgia O’Keefe.

Unlike many other museums in the area, the dual museums also include an open, airy courtyard—the perfect place to rest, eat lunch, read a book, or splash your feet in the flowing water fountains.

11.  National Gallery of Art

• National Mall

Comprising two separate buildings connected by a trippy underground moving walkway, the National Gallery of Art is a world-class museum with artwork from around the globe.

The West Building highlights European and American art from the 13th to the early 20th centuries, as well as Spanish, Dutch, Flemish, French and German works from the 17th century. Don't miss Leonardo da Vinci’s almond-eyed portrait of Ginevra de’ Benci, the artist's only work in the Western Hemisphere.

The East Building represents more current work, including a skylit atrium that houses a 32-foot-long still mobile by Alexander Calder. Stroll through the sculpture garden, a six-acre square across 7th Street that includes a Louise Bourgeois 10-foot bronze spider and a pyramid by Sol LeWitt. Free timed entry passes are required.

12.  National Museum of Women in the Arts

The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) houses a collection of more than 4,500 works by more than 1,000 women from the 16th century to the present. Highlights of the permanent exhibit include Frida Kahlo’s defiant 1937 Self-Portrait Dedicated to Leon Trotsky , as well as works by Elisabetta Sirani, Alma Woodsey Thomas and Barbara Hepworth. There are also special collections of 17th-century botanical prints by Maria Sibylla Merian and works by British and Irish women silversmiths from the 17th to 19th centuries. The museum hosts free community days every other week, on the first Sunday and second Wednesday of every month.

13.  Postal Museum

The Postal Museum is perhaps the most obscure of the Smithsonian’s offerings. A museum devoted to postal history and philately (stamp collecting) may sound like a hard sell, but there’s a trove of interactive and entertaining exhibits housed within the skeleton of what was once the enormous D.C. City Post Office. Check out the permanent exhibit “Systems at Work,” which recreates the journey of letters, magazines, parcels and other mail from sender to recipient. Pick out stamps from around the globe to start your own stamp collection. Write and ship a postcard directly from the museum. And go to the downstairs level of the museum to explore how mail has traveled across the country on trains, planes, and carriages.

14.  National Museum of American History

The continuing transformation of the National Museum of American History has led to several renovations that highlight some of America's most beloved artifacts. Floors are organized around loose themes, allowing a huge diversity of exhibits to tell American stories in an entertaining and informative manner. We love the First Ladies' dresses and Dorothy’s ruby red slippers. Oh! And there’s Julia Child’s actual kitchen. 

15.  National Building Museum

• Judiciary Square

A privately run collection, the National Building Museum produces smart, noteworthy exhibits focusing on architects and the built environment, both contemporary and historical. Among the exhibitions, "House & Home" discovers the history and many meanings of 'home,' both physical and cultural, with an array of all things household, from household goods and decorations (including a poster of Farrah Fawcett and a fondue set), to building materials to mortgage papers. Fittingly, the building itself is gorgeous: an Italian Renaissance-style Great Hall features eight colossal 75-foot Corinthian columns that lead to a ceiling 15 stories above. 

16.  International Spy Museum

• Penn Quarter

The world of D.C.’s prestige paid-entry museums was shaken up dramatically in 2019, with the Newseum closing indefinitely and the International Spy Museum moving to sleek new digs in L’Enfant Plaza. In its larger space, the museum boasts many exhibits that lean so hard into “infotainment” that a trip can feel less like learning about spies and more like a game of pretending to be one. Test your sleuthing abilities and gawk at an array of spy gadgets, including KGB-issued poison pellet shooting umbrellas and Germany’s Steineck ABC wristwatch camera. James Bond junkies will be in heaven—the groovy silver Aston Martin from 1964’s Goldfinger assumes a central spot in the museum. 

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68 Best & Fun Things To Do In Washington, DC

By: Author Jerric Chong

Posted on Published: September 23, 2020  - Last updated: October 15, 2023

You’re probably familiar with Washington, DC as the capital of the United States, and it’s true that you can find all sorts of historically and culturally significant sights within it.

From museums to war memorials to government buildings, it’s definitely the headquarters of the nation.

There are other parts to the city, however.

It’s home to everything from quirky little shops and boutiques to sprawling wilderness reserves filled with waterfalls and hundred-year-old oak trees.

It’s much more diverse than you might think!

Are you wondering what to do in Washington, DC?

Are you hoping to explore all of your options and not just the ones most commonly featured in travel guides?

Here are 68 of the best things to do in DC.

Disclaimer: This article may contain affiliate links. If you make a booking through these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

1. National Mall

National Mall

The first stop that you’ll want to make in Washington, DC is the National Mall .

You’ve already seen it depicted in hundreds of films, shows, plays, postcards and art prints, so it’s time to gaze at its majesty in real life.

The long, grassy slopes are home to dozens of iconic U.S. institutions.

The White House is the most famous, but the Washington Monument is the tallest, and the Smithsonian Museums are the largest in terms of square footage.

The domed top of the U.S. Capitol Building can be seen in the hazy distance of the east.

The Lincoln Memorial is at the opposite end on the west.

Other attractions include statues, museums, memorials, art galleries, botanical gardens and more.

In the summer, cherry blossom trees bloom over ponds and reflecting pools.

In the winter, snow piles up on the lawns.

The National Mall is one of the major points of interest in the United States.

Forget the boundaries of the District of Columbia; it’s iconic for the entire country as a whole.

You’ll definitely want to cross it off your bucket list when you’re in the area!

Check details, prices and reviews here.

Address: Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565, United States

2. Library of Congress

Library of Congress

With more than 167 million items, the Library of Congress is the second-largest library in the world.

Its shelves hold everything from rare, fragile books to contemporary recordings for popular music.

It also boasts maps, manuscripts, photographs, paintings, murals, news reels, sheet music and just about everything else that a seeker of knowledge could want.

The library has three buildings in total, and each one showcases breathtaking architecture that’s just as incredible as the materials within.

The most famous is probably the Thomas Jefferson Building with its ornate, golden-toned central reading room, but all of them are worth a visit.

Special events are often held at the library as well.

For example, one of the buildings has a performance theater; another has an auditorium for live musical performances; another has television and motion picture rooms.

Did we mention that everything is free?

Not only is the Library of Congress one of the best things to do in Washington, DC, but it’s also budget-friendly.

You could entertain yourself for hours without paying a dime.

In terms of tourist attractions, it doesn’t get much better than that!

Address:  10 First St SE, Washington, DC 20540, United States

3. Eastern Market

Eastern Market

The fruits are fresh. The flowers are fragrant.

The jewelry stands glitter in the sun; the woodworking stalls are always abuzz with the sounds of power tools.

Welcome to the Eastern Market !

Spilling out of an old brick building as a hybrid indoor/outdoor shopping space, the Eastern Market is one of the oldest of its kind in Washington, DC.

It’s open every day of the week except Monday, and it offers a constant rotation of farmers, florists, artists, butchers, blacksmiths, jewelers, booksellers and more.

If you’re feeling hungry, you can grab everything from warm flatbreads to shaved ice cups topped with homemade syrups and candies.

If you want to support small businesses, you can shop for shawls, necklaces, quilts, picture frames, seaglass gems and other goodies.

There are even specialty services available for things like leather working and shoe making!

The Eastern Market is one of the most fun things to do in Washington, DC.

No matter what you’re in the mood for, you can find it here, and it’ll probably be cheaper than a retail outlet.

Bring your bag and get ready to shop!

Address:  225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

4. Ford’s Theatre

Ford’s Theatre

The show must go on.

Despite being the place where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated, Ford’s Theatre is still open today, and it’s still bringing plays, musicals, speeches, comedy shows and other live events to the residents of Washington, DC.

The venue is small and cozy.

It retains a lot of its original decor from the 1800s, including red carpets and golden railings in front of the balcony seats.

It has a kind of throwback atmosphere that’ll make you feel like you’re stepping back in time to the days of top hats and narrow-waisted gowns.

If you’re a history buff, you should also know about the museum located beneath the theater.

It’s the best place in the city to learn about Lincoln, and it’s home to one-of-a-kind relics like the bloodstained pillow used during Lincoln’s final moments.

There’s no shortage of famous places in Washington, DC, but Ford’s Theatre manages to stand out from the rest with both its vintage charm and its utterly unique backstory.

Quite literally, you can’t get this experience anywhere else.

Address:  511 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

5. Washington Harbour

Washington Harbour

Shop in the spring. Boat in the summer.

Bike in the fall. Ice skate in the winter.

Washington Harbour offers activities for every season, so in addition to being a fun, lively place in general, it’s also a destination that will welcome vacationers at any time of year.

The views of the river are phenomenal, and you can enjoy them in many ways, including a rented canoe or jet ski right there on the water.

If you’d prefer to stay on solid ground, you can take a walking, biking or eating tour of the local hot spots, or you can simply wander on your own until the sizzle of fresh catfish tempts you into a seafood joint.

There’s shopping. There’s dining.

Hotels are all along the shoreline if you need accommodation.

Theaters, galleries, lounges and performance venues are always close at hand for entertainment.

Considered the “premiere waterfront destination of DC,” Washington Harbour is one of the best places to visit for travelers who want a fun and exciting time in the area.

Come here after you’ve had your fill of quiet museums and memorials.

Let loose and have a blast!

Address:  3000-3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

6. Heurich House Museum

Heurich House Museum

You can be forgiven for assuming that the Heurich House Museum is some grand palace built for long-forgotten aristocracy.

Its Victorian-style architecture includes stone archways, wide windows, spire-topped towers and all of the stairs and alcoves that you’d expect from a gothic building.

The truth, however, is that the Heurich House Museum was built by a European immigrant in the 1890s.

He ran a successful brewery a few miles away, and he wanted a taste of home in Washington, DC.

The brewery went out of business after the man died, but thanks to careful preservation by his descendants, the house survived.

It stands today as a tribute to turn-of-the-century living in Washington, DC.

Its first few floors have all of their original rooms and furnishings, including boudoirs, parlors, fireplaces, spiral staircases, servant’s quarters and more.

Tours are available every weekday.

Consider a trip to the Heurich House Museum if you’re looking for fun and unusual things to do in Washington, DC.

You’d never expect a piece of centuries-old gothic architecture to be sitting in the middle of a busy metropolis, but that’s exactly why it’s a must visit!

Address:  1307 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States

7. National Gallery of Art

National Gallery of Art

Hailed as “the nation’s museum,” the National Gallery of Art is considered one of the best in the United States, and it’s located right in the heart of Washington, DC.

It’s actually comprised of two buildings: East and West.

The East Building is made with pink marble and a sharp, almost geometric flair that includes things like open rooftop terraces and sky-lit atrium galleries.

By contrast, the West Building has white columns in a neoclassical architectural style reminiscent of ancient Greece, so it harks back to the past even as its cousin looks to the future.

The interiors are just as impressive as the exteriors.

Dozens of art collections include paintings, portraits, sculptures and busts from all around the world.

The works of many famous artists can be found here.

A trip to the National Gallery of Art is one of the top things to do in Washington, DC.

Not only will you be stunned by the scale and scope of its exhibitions, but you’ll also be moved by the immerse amount of meaning that the gallery holds for the United States of America.

Address:  Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20565, United States

8. Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park

You haven’t truly lived until you’ve hurled yourself down a mountain while strapped to a narrow cord strung between two trees.

Fortunately, this is just one of the experiences that you can have at Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park , so you can cross it off your bucket list as soon as you visit Washington, DC!

Activities include everything from ziplining to clambering across rope bridges and airborne obstacle courses.

You can test your nerves on the Tarzan Swings; you can goof around with the kids on a Treetop Discovery Journey.

There’s even something called a “Monkey Drop” if you’re really feeling brave.

It’s okay if you’re a beginner.

There are instructors who will walk you through the basics and show you how to have fun while staying safe.

Youngsters are also welcome as long as they meet certain guidelines, so this can be a family outing.

You won’t find a lot of ziplining opportunities in Washington, DC, but if you’re willing to leave the city, Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park isn’t that far.

You could be there in less than an hour if the traffic is light.

Sign up for an adventure today, and you could be flying through the treetops as early as this weekend!

Address:  7550 Reservation Dr, Springfield, VA 22153, United States

9. Capitol Hill Books

Capitol Hill Books

Bookstores are nothing new in Washington, DC, which might just be one of the most well-read cities in the world.

However, Capitol Hill Books is unique in a number of ways.

For starters, it’s completely unpretentious.

It sells used and battered books in a cluttered space with little direction but lots of wobbly stacks, and most of the goods have been so deeply discounted that they’re practically free.

The store’s founder is a retired WWII veteran who barks at millennials for using words like “totally” and “whatever.”

Despite this, he’s actually quite fond of his good-for-nothing customers, and he sold the store to four of his favorite regulars in 2016.

The new owners have been faithful to the spirit of the original store, so they haven’t changed much.

You can still find handwritten signs banning smartphones and the foreign language section stacked up in the bathroom.

One thing that’s changed has been the upgrade to electronic cash registers after years of the founder writing receipts by hand and complaining about it the entire time.

Are you looking for quirky, off-beat ways to have fun in DC?

Hit up Capitol Hill Books.

Just make sure that you don’t use any dang slang!

Address:  657 C St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

10. Thip Khao

If you consider yourself a foodie, you’ll be absolutely dazzled by Washington, DC.

Its streets are packed with dining options that range from Michelin-star restaurants to cheap food trucks and hole-in-the-wall grub hubs.

The hard part won’t be finding a place to eat; it’ll be choosing between all of the places to eat!

Thip Khao is just one of the city’s many restaurants, but it stands out from the crowd for its daringly unique menu.

It’s dedicated to Lao cuisine, and dishes include things like goat curry and fried duck head.

There are also blood sausages, fire ant eggs, cured pork bellies and alligator tails served with mint and green apple.

These dishes might sound extreme to a first-timer, but there’s a reason why locals and tourists both go crazy for Thip Khao.

If you’re willing to expand your horizons, you can have an amazingly exotic culinary experience without even leaving the streets of DC.

Take a deep breath.

Get over your fear of fermented fish chili rice.

It’s time to push yourself out of your comfort zone with Thip Khao, one of the coolest, boldest and tastiest restaurants in the city.

Address:  3462 14th St NW, Washington, DC 20010, United States

11. Old Town Trolley Tour

Old Town Trolley Tour

There are so many tourist attractions in Washington, DC, that it can feel like an impossible task to visit them all.

Your best chance at success is utilizing an Old Town Trolley Tour .

As a “hop-on, hop-off” tour, the Old Town Trolley Tour will allow you to explore the city at your leisure even as you enjoy the convenience of having informative guides and chauffeurs.

If you see a store, restaurant or landmark that interests you, just disembark at one of the tour’s 17 designated bus stops around DC.

When you’re ready to resume the trip, hop on the next bus and keep going.

The tour will take you to all of the best places to go in the city, including the world-famous National Mall.

You’ll also have the opportunity to experience a water taxi on the Potomac River.

If you’re looking for fun things to do in Washington DC, consider a hop-on, hop-off experience with an Old Town Trolley Tour.

It can be a great way to kick off your trip and see the bounty spread before you as a visitor.

Address:  50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

12. National Arboretum

National Arboretum

With flowers, ferns, trees, shrubs, succulents and as far as the eye can see, the National Arboretum is one of the most beautiful places to visit in the US .

It’s also one of the most colorful.

From the tidy, well-trimmed bonsai collections to the overgrown willow trees hanging over fields of wildflowers, every inch of this arboretum will dazzle the eye.

Walking trails will lead you through gardens and groves.

Art collections will greet you in between statues, fountains and reflecting pools.

Tourist attractions include everything from arbor houses to nature museums.

There are other things to see, too, that don’t involve the natural world.

For example, the National Capitol Columns stand in an open field as a tribute to American history.

Are you looking to escape the grind of Washington, DC?

Are you a fan of nature, culture, beauty, history or all of the above?

The National Arboretum is a must see destination, so you’ll definitely want to make time for it when you’re near the capital.

Address:  3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

13. CityCenterDC

CityCenterDC

Covering more than five blocks, CityCenterDC is a “mixed-use development” located in the heart of downtown.

In simple terms, this means that it’s a gigantic commercial and retail space where you can find shops, parks, restaurants, hotels, offices and condos all contained within a single area.

If this sounds like a busy place, you’re absolutely right!

While CityCenterDC is a must see for folks who enjoy the thrumming energy of a modern urban landscape, it isn’t for the faint of heart.

There are always crowds, and there are always miles and miles of traffic.

If the bustle is part of the appeal, however, you’ll love the liveliness of CityCenterDC.

You can’t walk two steps without seeing another shop or another cafe.

You could spend hours within these five blocks alone; you don’t even need to venture further into downtown to have a good time.

If you aren’t afraid of bumping elbows with strangers, CityCenterDC is among the top tourist places of Washington, DC.

It’ll put you right on top of the beating pulse of the city, and you can’t ask for more from a vacation destination.

Address:  825 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

14. The Pentagon

The Pentagon

You might be surprised to learn that the Pentagon allows visitors, but it’s actually one of the biggest Washington DC attractions for political-minded folks who want to see where the action happens.

Guided tours are available on weekdays from 10 AM – 4 PM.

They’ll take you through some of the front rooms and offices as well as the Hall of Heroes where you can view Medal of Honor recipients.

There are also informative displays about all four branches of the military along with photos, relics and memorabilia from the conflicts of the past.

Keep in mind that tours have to be scheduled at least two weeks in advance, and you’ll need a government-issued photo ID to enter.

They don’t let just anyone pass through the front doors.

As long as you meet the criteria, however, it can be a rare and exciting treat to visit the Pentagon.

It can also make for a great story back home.

You can honestly tell your friends that you’ve walked the same halls as presidents, princes, dignitaries and more!

Address:  Washington, DC 22202, United States

15. National Zoo

National Zoo

Lions and tigers and bears, oh my!

The National Zoo is a staple of Washington, DC for more reasons than one, so if you’re an animal or nature lover spending time in the city, it’s definitely a place to put on your to-do list.

The first reason to visit is because of the sheer range of animals within the zoo.

More than 2,000 animals call it home, including a family of giant pandas.

If it jumps, flies, crawls, stalks, slithers or rolls around in bamboo, it can probably be found here.

Another great thing about the zoo is that it hosts a wide variety of events and activities for visitors.

From “Woo at the Zoo” on Valentine’s Day to “Boo at the Zoo” during Halloween, there’s always something fun to do.

Last but not least, the zoo is free.

Yes, you read that right!

You can stroll right up to the gates tomorrow morning and gain entry without paying a dime.

It’s open every day of the year except Christmas, and it never charges admission.

Are you tempted by the National Zoo yet?

Are you ready to see all of the amazing creatures and enjoy all of the fun activities?

It’s located right on the National Mall of Washington, DC, so you can’t miss it!

Address:  3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States

16. International Spy Museum

International Spy Museum

The International Spy Museum is a mix of fun and factual.

As its name suggests, it’s dedicated to the art of espionage, and many exhibits revolve around real-life spies and their history, technology and methodology.

On the flip side, a lot of stuff to do at the International Spy Museum is just plain cool.

There are trivia games and movie nights; there are interactive spy missions where the whole family can play at being James Bond.

Speaking of James Bond, he gets some attention, too.

Fictional spies aren’t overlooked.

The museum recognizes the role that they’ve played in public interest about the field.

If you’re looking for fun and unique things to do in Washington, DC, consider a stop by the International Spy Museum.

It’s one of the only museums of its kind in the entire world, so in addition to being a DC standout, it’s also a rare treat for those who like their martinis shaken and not stirred.

Address:  700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

17. Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan

If you’re a fan of the funky, you won’t want to miss Adams Morgan .

This vibrant neighborhood has colorful houses lined up like ducks in a row alongside shops, cafes, bars, bistros, lounges, clubs and many other entertainment venues.

You can sing karaoke until 3 AM; you can follow trails of graffiti to community art projects.

Every weekend, this neighborhood transforms into a mini-city of its very own.

Another great thing about Adams Morgan is its diversity.

Just walking down the street can take you on a journey around the world, especially if you’re a foodie.

You can dine on all kinds of pizzas, noodles, pastas, empanadas and gyros.

Go shopping at the thrift stores.

Take in live music at the pubs and taverns.

Eat until you’re stuffed at the outdoor restaurants of every flavor.

Adams Morgan is one of the best places for entertainment in Washington, DC.

It’s a must do if you like the nightlife scene, but even if you’re an older or calmer kind of traveler, you can find ample ways to have fun in a neighborhood like this.

18. Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery

Located in Arlington, Virginia, Arlington National Cemetery is a few minutes south of Washington, DC, but it’s worth the side trip.

You’ve probably heard of it before.

It’s one of the oldest and most esteemed military cemeteries in the world.

The land was originally owned by George Washington’s grandson.

It passed through various hands, including Robert E. Lee’s wife, until it became the property of the U.S. government.

Today, it’s used as the final resting place for soldiers dating all of the way back to the Civil War.

The grounds are beautiful, especially when the leaves change colors in the fall.

Elaborate statues, fountains, headstones and memorial buildings are dotted across the hills.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is one of the most popular places to visit in the cemetery, but there are many others.

If you’re wondering what to do in Washington DC, put some gas in the car and hop across state lines to Virginia.

Arlington National Cemetery is a must do.

Address: Entrance at Arlington Memorial Bridge, Arlington, VA 22211, United States

19. Capital One Arena

Capital One Arena

The Capital One Arena is one of the major points of interest of Washington, DC.

It’s even been credited with the revitalization of its neighborhood.

You don’t have to sit through a history lesson to enjoy the arena for what it is, however.

It’s an awesome place!

Home to everyone from the Washington Wizards to the Washington Capitals, it hosts sporting events of all kinds, including basketball, hockey and even wrestling.

It’s also been used for concerts, festivals, horse shows, family events and ice skating performances.

If you want to see Disney on Ice while in DC, this is where you’ll go.

Amenities include a lounge, salon, food court and commercial retail space.

You’ll find lots of well-known shopping brands here.

To put it simply, everything that you need for a good vacation is right here in the Capital One Arena.

There’s entertainment; there’s food and drink; there’s a place to get your hair cut or your nails clipped.

What more could you ask for from an arena?

Address:  601 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

20. Odyssey Dinner Cruise

Odyssey Dinner Cruise

What comes to mind when you hear the phrase a three-hour tour?

Thankfully, this isn’t Gilligan’s Island.

It’s the Odyssey Dinner Cruise .

Setting off from the Potomac River, the Odyssey Dinner Cruise will take you on a journey through some of the top travel destinations of Washington, DC.

You’ll pass by towering monuments and memorials; you’ll drift along shorelines dotted with fountains, statues, museums, naval piers and other points of interest.

Befitting a dinner cruise, a three-course meal is served with every trip.

You’ll enjoy tableside service along with classical music in a sophisticated setting.

When you’re done with your food, you’ll have the option of cutting a rug on the dance hall.

If you’re wondering what to do in DC, you don’t have to limit yourself to a small list of attractions.

See everything at once through an Odyssey Dinner Cruise, and enjoy some buttered scallops in citrus sauce while you’re at it!

Address:  580 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

21. Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

If you’re looking for unusual tourist spots in Washington, DC, consider the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens .

They’re captivatingly beautiful, but they’re definitely not your average park!

What sets them apart is their water-based plant life.

They offer several species that are quite rare for the region, including waterlilies, lotus blossoms and water hyacinths.

Some of these plants are located within Kenilworth Marsh, the only remaining tidal marsh in DC.

Another source of entertainment is the annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival.

It’s a two-day event held at the park, and it offers games, tours, dances, cultural lessons, fashion shows, wildlife experiences and more.

If you’ve ever admired the beauty of a floating heart or the hidden meaning of a lotus flower, you’ll definitely want to check out the Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens.

It’s a must do for nature enthusiasts in general, but it’s particularly special for folks who like to explore little-known places and find hidden gems during their vacations.

Address:  1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019, United States

22. Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Theodore Roosevelt Island is a small and beautiful sanctuary located off the coast of Washington, DC.

It’s only accessible through a pedestrian bridge, and cars and bikes aren’t allowed.

You have to explore with nothing but your own two feet.

If you’re up for the walking, however, it’s a top 10 destination in terms of scenery.

There are hills and fields; there are shaded tree canopies; there are babbling brooks.

It’s a great place to relieve some stress by lying back on the grass and staring at the beautiful blue sky.

There are also wilder, denser places where serious hikers can test their mettle.

If you venture deeply enough into the trees, you might hear the call of Washington’s birds or the slither of its snakes.

Do you want to go off the grid for awhile?

Check out Theodore Roosevelt Island.

It isn’t one of the glamorous tourist places of the region, but it’s one of the best things to do in DC if you don’t mind loping it on foot.

Address: George Washington Memorial Parkway, Arlington, VA 22211, United States

23. National Museum of Natural History

National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History is another place that you’ve probably seen in a lot of movies, but we’re here to tell you that reality is even better than fiction.

Its amazing collections have to be seen to be believed!

The first thing that you’ll notice is a gigantic elephant roaring at the center of a large, open-air rotunda.

From there, you can choose a direction and explore art galleries, fossil halls, meteorite collections, butterfly gardens and more.

There’s a Hall of Bones. There’s an Insect Zoo. The Hope Diamond is here.

Whether you’re into astronomy, oceanography, paleontology, meteorology or any other type of natural history, you can probably find some kind of display for it.

Run by the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of Natural History lives up to its reputation and then some.

It’s one of those rare places to visit that manages to combine education and entertainment, so even as you’re having fun, you’ll be trying new things and learning new facts.

Address:  10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, United States

24. Argentta Spa at the Watergate

Argentta Spa

If bottomless mimosas are your thing, you’ll love a luxurious afternoon at the Argentta Spa .

It’s found within the Watergate Hotel, but you don’t have to be a guest to sign up for a massage, manicure or mud mask.

Feel free to pamper yourself regardless of where you’re staying in the city.

Amenities include a pool, jacuzzi, sauna and steamroom.

Beauty services range from basic facials to elaborate Icelandic moonflower scrubs.

If you’re over 21, you can enjoy drinks with just about everything, including cocktails during cuticle treatments and wine after rooftop yoga classes.

If you’re looking to treat yourself while in Washington, DC, it’s hard to beat the “luxe living” of the Argentta Spa.

You’ll feel like a whole new person when you step out of a lavender-infused saltwater bath.

Additionally, if you get too lazy and relaxed to move, you can just book a room at the hotel and extend your stay!

Address:  2650 Virginia Ave NW, Washington, DC 20037, United States

25. DC Improv Comedy Club

DC Improv Comedy Club

This subterranean comedy club has an awesome atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else in Washington, DC.

As you might expect from an underground building, it features a lot of dark walls and dimly-lit alcoves, but it gets filled with so much laughter that it never feels gloomy.

Instead, there’s a warm, almost cozy atmosphere as the comedians take the stage.

They’re close enough to reach out and touch.

As a member of the audience, you’ll be able to eat and drink while they perform, so everything has a very casual feeling.

Shows are hosted every week.

Special events include classes in improv, sketch and stand-up comedy.

If you’re traveling for work, you can even rent the venue for fun and unique team-building exercises.

Maybe you’re spending time with colleagues.

Maybe you need a cool place for a date tonight.

No matter what the occasion, the DC Improv Comedy Club will be a side-splitting spot!

Address:  1140 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States

26. Culture House

Culture House

You can’t miss the Culture House .

Literally, you can’t miss it.

Its bright colors can be seen from miles away, especially since most of the surrounding neighborhood was demolished years ago.

The Culture House was only spared from the bulldozer because it used to belong to the Friendship Baptist Congregation, an African-American institution that supported low-income families and provided them with fun, creative ways to express themselves.

The Culture House has gone through various owners since then, but its mission remains the same.

Every inch of the place has been hand-painted or graffiti-sprayed with various types of artistry.

From cartoons to abstract swirls to elaborate “in memoriam” murals, it’s basically a living, ever-evolving work of art.

There are other reasons to visit the Culture House besides gawking at the walls, too.

Many artists use the space for showings and exhibitions.

Its psychedelic interior is also popular with musicians.

If you want some non-touristy things to do in Washington, DC, the Culture House is decidedly off the beaten path.

It’s a wonderfully unique place, and it’ll make for a wonderfully unique visit as well.

Address:  700 Delaware Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

27. Cascading Waterfall

Cascading Waterfall

You’ve never seen a waterfall quite like this.

Located within Meridian Hill Park , it’s a man-made art installation that sends water flowing down a series of 13 stone steps.

Like its name suggests, it’s a beautiful cascade, and many people think that it represents the perfect harmony between man and nature.

When you’re done with the waterfall, there are other cool places to see in the park as well.

There are statues and fountains; there are monuments for war heroes.

One of the most famous is a heavy bronze recreation of Joan of Arc on a horse.

The sword in her hand has been stolen and re-stolen multiple times over the years; sometimes, the thieves leave flowers or other tokens behind.

When visiting the statue, you never know if you’re going to see the sword or not.

Do you want to experience the great outdoors without having to leave the urban terrain of Washington, DC?

Stop by the Cascading Waterfall at Meridian Hill Park.

It’s a nice place to get a respite from the city while still being conveniently cocooned within it.

Address:  16th St NW &, W St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

28. The Chocolate House DC

The Chocolate House

If you just felt a little shiver of excitement at the name “ Chocolate House ,” this is the tourist attraction for you!

Offering hundreds of bars, breads, truffles, crisps and bites made by world-class artisans, the Chocolate House DC is a luxury boutique and tasting room for chocoholics of all types.

You can munch on everything from chocolate peanut brittle squares to orange-infused dark chocolate fudge bombs.

You can also indulge yourself with wines, soaps, blankets and other care package goods to complement the cocoa.

As for activities, you’ll have your choice of classes, workshops and cooking events.

You can learn how to roll truffles; you can sample various types of gourmet chocolate under the tutelage of an expert.

The schedule varies.

Your sweet tooth will definitely get a workout at the Chocolate House DC.

Are you ready to treat yourself to some amazing desserts made by high-quality chocolatiers?

Get your taste buds to the Chocolate House!

Address:  1904 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009, United States

29. United States Botanic Garden

United States Botanic Garden

With all of its vintage theaters and gleaming government buildings, you might not expect Washington, DC to have a lot of greenery.

However, the United States Botanic Garden would prove you wrong.

It’s a natural oasis in the middle of an urban landscape, and it’s hands-down one of the best places to visit in the city.

Flowers bloom in every shape and shade that you can imagine.

Gardens are arranged by theme, so one might have rare and endangered species while another is focused on jungle, desert or tropical plants.

There’s a canopy for looking at the trees and flowers from a top view.

There are trails and courtyards if you want to walk, talk, sit or just breathe deeply among the orchids.

You don’t have to be a botanist to appreciate a large and impressive house of botany.

If you want to escape the high-rise buildings of Washington, DC for awhile, stop by the tranquil spring that is the United States Botanic Garden.

Address:  100 Maryland Ave SW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

30. Monumental Helicopters

Monumental Helicopters

It’s always fun to see a city from the sky.

It can get a little complicated in DC, however, because of the Flight Restricted Zone (FRZ) imposed on all of those important government buildings.

If you want to experience aerial views, you’ll need to book a helicopter tour with a company that has been approved for FRZ flights.

Monumental Helicopters is that company.

They have FRZ access, and while they can’t exactly fly you over the White House, they can get you closer than many of their competitors.

They can also take you on show-stopping journeys to other Washington DC attractions.

They offer a variety of tours out of Baltimore and Annapolis that also incorporate some of DC’s nearby hot spots.

If you’ve always wanted to fly alongside the seagulls in Chesapeake Bay, this is your chance!

It’s unfortunate that you can’t take a real helicopter tour of Washington, DC, but with companies like Monumental Helicopters, at least you can experience something close to one.

Just make sure to call ahead and book early.

They provide such an in-demand service that they’re often swamped with requests.

Address:  7505 General Aviation Dr #100, Fort Meade, MD 20755, United States

31. Smithsonian Institution Building

Smithsonian Institution Building

Don’t be fooled by the name “ Smithsonian Institution Building .”

While it might sound like a boring collection of offices and cubicles, it’s actually a medieval-style castle!

It was built with red sandstone over the course of 1849 – 1855 in a combination of Romanesque and early Gothic architecture.

The architects picked this style deliberately because they wanted it to stand out from the white marble and granite of other DC buildings.

The towers rise to a staggering 145 feet.

The windows are curved and arched alongside turrets and other medieval staples.

Inside, there are parlors, galleries, libraries, chapels and great halls.

There’s even a crypt for the tomb of James Smithson, the founder of the Smithsonian Intuition.

Washington, DC might be full of cool buildings, but the Smithsonian Institution Building is one of the top choices to visit.

How many chances will you get to see a genuine castle?

Rather than backpacking through Europe or Asia, just hop on over to DC.

Address:  1000 Jefferson Dr SW, Washington, DC 20560, United States

32. Old Ebbitt Grill

Old Ebbitt Grill

Old Ebbitt Grill is another vintage building in the DC area, though it isn’t quite as vintage as a medieval castle.

However, it does date back to the mid-1850s, and it went through several lives as a boarding house and a saloon before finally settling on its identity as a tavern.

The dining room shines with polished woods and red, brown and gold accents.

The menu offers old classics like steak and eggs as well as more contemporary dishes like oysters and scallops.

For dessert, you can try some of the famous peach cobbler or the mouthwatering brown butter chocolate chip cookies; for a drink, you can sip white wines, bourbon whiskies, rum cocktails and tequilas with salty glasses.

The service is impeccable. The menu is delicious. The decor is fun and retro.

Why wouldn’t you stop at Old Ebbitt Grill when you’re feeling peckish in Washington, DC?

Address:  675 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20005, United States

33. The Mansion on O Street

The Mansion on O Street / Rain0975 / flickr

The Mansion on O Street isn’t actually a mansion.

It’s a series of brownstones connected by cluttered rooms, creaky staircases, secret doors, winding passageways and floor-to-ceiling shelves filled with everything from rare books to antique dining sets.

It’s partly a museum, partly a junk shop and wholly a place where you can have fun in Washington DC.

With more than 100 rooms in total, you’ll have your work cut out for you when it comes to exploring the labyrinth.

You might enter this weekend and not emerge until next weekend.

It’s that complex.

Once you embrace a perpetual feeling of being lost, however, you’ll have a blast.

There are all kinds of odds and ends to appreciate as you wander from room to room, and special events include tours, treasure hunts, musical performances, book readings and more.

A lot of the goods are on sale, too, so you can take home some of the world’s weirdest souvenirs.

Consider a trip to the Mansion on O Street if you’re looking for fun things to do that aren’t in your typical travel guide.

It might be one of the lesser-known options for Washington DC attractions, but considering its strange, secretive nature, that’s rather fitting!

Address:  2020 O St NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States

34. U Street

Once hailed as the “Black Broadway,” U Street spent years as a cultural hub for African-Americans in Washington, DC.

It’s become more gentrified as of late, but you can still find important works of art, music, fashion and culture preserved here, and you can still grab an awesome slice of Ethiopian dessert.

Attractions include the work of notable black architects like the Prince Hall Masonic Temple and the Thurgood Marshall Center.

There’s also the Lincoln Theatre, a historic performance venue for legends like Duke Ellington, and the Bohemian Caverns, a jazz club that dates all of the way back to the 1920s.

After you’ve enjoyed a show, grab some dinner at Ben Chili’s Bowl or smoke a cigarette at the U Street Music Hall.

If you’re in the area in the spring, see if you can catch the annual Washington DC Funk Parade.

U Street is an important touchstone for the African-American community in the District of Columbia.

It’s also a place of good vibes, great festivities and as much soul food as you can eat.

If you’re looking for fun vacation spots, make sure to mark U Street on your map!

Check out this mouth-watering U Street food tour.

35. The Capital Wheel

The Capital Wheel

Have you noticed that Washington, DC doesn’t have a lot of skyscrapers?

It’s deliberate on the part of city officials.

It also means that attractions like the Capital Wheel really stand out.

Rising more than 170 feet from the land and water below, the Capital Wheel is a gigantic Ferris wheel that overlooks everything from the Washington Monument to the Potomac River.

It has such amazing views, in fact, that you can see Virginia and Maryland from the very top gondola.

As for the gondolas themselves, they’re both enclosed and climate-controlled, so you’ll never have to worry about bad weather ruining your visit.

You can just sit back and watch the raindrops streaking across the glass as you slowly ascend into the clouds.

If you’re traveling to the city in winter, you can also catch spectacular light shows that transform each gondola into an LED extravaganza.

You aren’t afraid of heights, right?

So climb aboard the Capital Wheel and look at Washington, DC the way that few tourists ever do.

You’ll treasure the memory for the rest of your life.

Address:  141 American Way, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, United States

36. Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park

Take a deep breath in crisp, clear air when you visit Rock Creek Park .

It’s one of the most beautiful places to go in Washington, DC, and thanks to careful conservation efforts by the community, it’s also one of the best sites for escaping the smog of the city.

Water glides over the rocks in cold, clear streams.

Ferns and flowers hide all kinds of wildlife, including several species that aren’t commonly found in other parts of the state.

Nature trails are everywhere, and they’ll take you over hills, through trees, across foot bridges and down inlaid steps.

Available activities include everything from horseback riding to sightseeing at old-fashioned grist mills.

Do you need a break from the lights and noises of the big city?

Rejuvenate yourself by spending some time at Rock Creek Park.

Whether you’re going for an all-day hike or just an afternoon picnic in the park, it’ll soothe your soul to be surrounded by natural beauty on all sides.

Address: 3545 Williamsburg Ln NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States

37. Georgetown

You can’t talk about Washington, DC without mentioning Georgetown .

It’s one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the city, and if you play your cards right, it can also be one of the most fun.

The secret lies in making a game plan.

Georgetown is a lively neighborhood filled with colorful houses dotting cobblestone roads and shopfronts, so there are lots of things to see and do.

If you don’t want to miss out on anything awesome, you’ll need to know where to go and what to visit.

Are you hungry?

Take a food tour of the many cafes, bistros, bakeries and restaurants.

Do you enjoy nightlife?

Hit up the bars, pubs and taverns with their live music and never-ending taps.

Sightseeing is another popular activity in Georgetown.

The architecture is very Instagram-worthy, so whether you’re looking at snow-topped patios or fall foliage scattered on the streets, you’ll definitely want to whip out your camera and document it.

Georgetown is one of the major places of interest in Washington, DC.

If nothing else, it’s worth exploring just to say that you’ve been there!

Explore Georgetown with this walking food tour.

38. Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe

Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe

Located within the National Museum of the American Indian, this cafe is one of the only ones in the country that serves exclusively Native American food.

It’s a great place to expand your culinary horizons while also supporting the indigenous populations of Washington, DC!

Menu items range from “bison burgers” to “yellow corn tacos served with goat meat and plantains.”

An open kitchen will allow you to watch your meal being prepared over fire pits and cedar-covered grills.

There’s a bit of a food court atmosphere to the cafe since it offers dishes from multiple Native American tribes.

You can even order a sample platter if you want to try different ones.

On slow days, the cooks will chat with you about the history of their skills and dishes.

The Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe is one of the best ways to spend your money in Washington, DC.

It gets its ingredients from tribal co-ops; it supports a museum dedicated to its people.

Most importantly, it serves Native American food that’s awesome and authentic, so you can feel good about your lunchtime choices when you eat here.

Address:  Independence Ave SW & 4th Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024, United States

39. Sculpture Garden

Sculpture Garden

Part of the National Gallery of Art, the Sculpture Garden has an amazing collection of outdoor artwork that ranges from the aesthetically pleasing to the mind-bendingly weird.

You could spend a whole day just wandering the trails and looking at all of the goods.

Graft is a tree made entirely out of silver.

Spider is a gigantic, eight-legged bronze piece that looms over visitors.

Thinker on a Rock is a quirky take on the old classic with a ponderous rabbit in place of a human.

Chair Transformation Number 20B is a series of melted blue chairs that have been stacked on top of one another.

When you’re finished with the sculptures, venture into the gallery and look at the paintings, or hop on the ice skating rink that opens every year from December to March.

You can also grab a bite to eat at the pavilion cafe or shop for souvenirs at the museum gift shop.

For fun times with crazy, creative artwork, check out the Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art.

You won’t regret it!

Address:  Constitution Ave NW &, 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20408, United States

40. National Postal Museum

National Postal Museum

Another museum in the Smithsonian collection, the National Postal Museum is dedicated to the long and surprisingly interesting history of the U.S. postal system.

There’s a lot more to know about the Pony Express than you might think!

Exhibitions include letters, stamps, uniforms, decals, flags and vintage postal tools like printing presses and perforation machines.

Displays include multiple recreations of life-sized, turn-of-the-century transportation.

Wagons and stagecoaches line the floor; an “air mail” plane hangs from the ceiling.

You can even climb inside postal rail cars on a gigantic train.

Another cool thing about the museum is that it’s located at the former site of Washington’s central post office.

From 1914 to 1986, it was genuinely in use by the locals.

If you’re visiting Washington, DC to learn more about its historical significance to the United States, you’ll want to make time for the National Postal Museum.

It’s a unique destination for a unique time in the past, so it’s a must see for history buffs everywhere.

Address:  2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, United States

41. Penn Quarter

Penn Quarter

Do you have some free time tonight?

Hit up Penn Quarter .

It’s a neighborhood that never sleeps, so it doesn’t matter if you’re looking for midday shopping or late-night drinking; you’ll always find open doors here.

The Shakespeare Theatre Company puts on the best shows from the Bard.

The Smithsonian American Art Museum shares space with the National Portrait Gallery and the Marian Koshland Science Museum.

The Capital One Arena is close by for sports fans, and the J. Edgar Hoover Building is just a stone’s throw away for the politically minded.

There are other, lesser-known attractions as well.

For example, there are many bars and restaurants to cater to the frequent foot traffic of tourists, and there are a number of stores for shopaholics.

With its endless variety of events and activities, Penn Quarter is one of the most fun things to do in DC.

It’s especially nice for night owls who are looking for a good time.

You don’t have to retreat to your hotel just because the sun goes down!

Visit Penn Quarter instead and enjoy yourself until the sun rises again.

42. Catacombs of Washington, DC

Catacombs of Washington, DC / Lawrence OP / flickr

Hidden beneath the city of Washington, DC is a series of underground tunnels that are designed to mimic the religious catacombs of the Middle Ages.

They’re only 100 years old, so they’re quite young by catacomb standards, but their cracked stone walls and curving, dimly-lit passageways will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook of some kind.

Holy artwork covers the walls.

Shrines, tombs, altars and chapels can be explored at your leisure.

The skeleton of an eight-year-old martyr will watch over you as you venture from room to room.

Tour guides are available if you’re worried about getting lost forever among the ghostly graves of religious icons.

Otherwise, you can explore this subterranean complex on your own; it’s located beneath the Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America .

The Catacombs of Washington DC are one of the coolest sites to see in the city.

They aren’t as well-known as other tourist attractions in the city, but that just means that you won’t have to battle large crowds underground.

You can creep through the tombs in a hushed silence that befits the setting.

Address:  1400 Quincy St NE, Washington, DC 20017, United States

43. Greenbelt Park

Greenbelt Park

Though it’s located in Maryland, Greenbelt Park is just a half-hour from downtown DC, so it isn’t a chore to take a drive there.

In fact, the drive itself can become a tourist attraction when the weather is nice.

The leaves turn gold in the fall; the tulips and dandelions blossom in the spring.

It’s quite scenic!

The main attraction, however, is definitely Greenbelt Park.

This woodsy wilderness is one of the top spots in Washington for hikers, campers, climbers and other outdoor enthusiasts.

There are off-grid locations if you like to get rugged, or you can stick to the reserved camping areas to enjoy amenities like picnic grounds and public bathrooms.

There are also a variety of trails for folks of every skill level, so whether you’re an experienced backpacker looking for a challenging route or a complete beginner who just wants to take a leisurely stroll through nature, there’s a pathway that will suit you.

Are you looking for fun places to go in Washington, DC?

Greenbelt Park doesn’t technically fit the bill, but if you’re willing to cheat on the District of Columbia with the state of Maryland, your sneakiness will be rewarded.

Address:  6565 Greenbelt Rd, Greenbelt, MD 20770, United States

44. Nationals Park

Nationals Park

Home of the Washington Nationals, this ballpark mixes a classic, old-school stadium aesthetic with contemporary features and amenities.

For example, while it has grandstand seats surrounding a nostalgic green diamond, it’s also the first eco-friendly, LEED-certified stadium in the nation.

While it sells hotdogs and peanuts, it also offers ribs, lobster rolls, kielbasa, bao bao and Korean fried chicken.

Baseball is the biggest sport for Nationals Park , but if your trip coincides with hockey season, you might also be able to catch a NHL game.

You can also keep your eyes peeled for concerts, papal masses, political rallies and other big events.

Tours are available with and without appointments, so that’s another possibility for killing some time while you’re on vacation.

If you’re headed to DC this week, check out the schedule for Nationals Park.

You never know when something cool will be going on, and with any luck, you’ll get the chance to take your family out to a ballgame in true American style.

Address:  1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003, United States

45. Madame Tussauds Washington DC

Madame Tussauds Washington DC

The wax statues of Madame Tussauds are known throughout the world.

However, it must be said that the Washington DC location is even better than the ones found in Hollywood or Las Vegas.

You won’t believe some of the famous faces on display here!

The Presidents Gallery has wax figures of all 45 U.S. presidents.

The Glamour Room has everyone from Beyonce to Michael Jackson.

The Civil Rights Room gets serious with Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King, Jr.

The Sports Gallery goes right back to the humor with its renditions of Babe Ruth, Tiger Woods and Evander Holyfield.

If you’re curious about the creation process of these wax dolls, there’s also a “Behind the Scenes” room where you can learn some of the secrets of the trade.

Otherwise, feel free to explore the museum at your leisure and poke at all of the frozen celebrity smiles.

Unlike other museums, visitors at Madame Tussauds are allowed to freely interact with the exhibits, and funny selfies are both accepted and encouraged.

Are you tired of the usual Washington DC attractions?

Do you want something that’s totally weird and off-the-wall?

Madame Tussauds has you covered.

Just make sure that your camera roll is ready!

Address:  1001 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004, United States

46. Hillwood Estate, Museum and Garden

Hillwood Estate, Museum and Garden / Ron Cogswell / flickr

Put together by a rich heiress with a taste for high art and culture, the Hillwood Estate is filled with things like tapestries, portraits, ornaments, flowers, tea sets and porcelain goods.

It’s a collection that spans the globe, and it’s one of the best places to visit in Washington, DC if you enjoy delicate beauty.

The Hillwood Estate is technically known as a “decorative arts museum.”

However, it’ll offer a much different experience than your standard museum.

You’ll start with a trip through a Japanese zen garden.

A set of sliding doors will open into the estate, and a tour guide will escort you through everything from the French Porcelain Room to Russian Sacred Arts Room.

If you like the House of Romanov, they have an entire suite dedicated to them; items on display include a stunning collection of Faberge eggs.

There’s also an entire exhibit dedicated to the jewelry and fashion of pre-industrial England.

When you’re done with the exhibitions, hit up the on-site cafe for tea and sandwiches, or check out the souvenir shop filled with books, artwork, stationery and other delicately charming goods.

There’s a lot to see at the Hillwood Estate.

You’ll wish that you had more than one pair of eyes.

If you’re looking for cool things to do in Washington, DC, however, you won’t want to miss it!

Address:  4155 Linnean Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, United States

47. Union Station

Union Station

This Union Station is one of the oldest railway stations in the world, and for a long time, it was also one of the biggest.

Millions of people visited it every year to take trains and buses to Boston , Baltimore , New York and more.

Today, Union Station is still a thriving hub for transportation, but it’s also been modernized for the convenience of the contemporary traveler.

There are shops and food courts; there are beauty services and bike repairers; there are tour guide companies of every possible type.

Previous businesses have included bookstores, barber shops, post offices and even a mortuary.

Union Station is the kind of place that you’ll want to visit at least once.

It might not be what immediately comes to mind when you think about Washington DC attractions, but it’s worth putting on your itinerary.

Visiting DC without a trip to Union Station is like visiting NYC without a trip to Fifth Avenue.

48. Chinatown

In its heyday, the Chinatown of Washington, DC was one of the most prominent in the United States.

It’s suffered a lot of gentrification since then, and only a fraction of its original population remains, but it’s still a great place to get some dumplings.

Many of the businesses in the area are family-owned by Chinese immigrants.

There are restaurants, clothing shops, laundromats, video stores, general stores and more.

If you don’t know where to start, try the Washington DC Chinatown Community Cultural Center.

In addition to offering practical things like maps, they also host a variety of classes and festivities that celebrate China, so they can help gain a deeper understanding of the culture even as you partake in its food and festivities.

DC’s Chinatown might lack its original glory, but it’s still one of the best places to visit in the region.

Grab your chopsticks and loosen your belt!

The orange chicken is waiting!

Address: Bounded by G H, 5th, and 8th Sts., Washington, DC, United States

49. Tidal Basin

Tidal Basin

Are you looking for romantic places to visit in Washington, DC?

Take your sweetheart to the Tidal Basin .

It’s such a gentle, beautiful location that it isn’t at all uncommon to see lovers picnicking along the shore, renting out a paddleboat for two or just holding hands as they walk under shaded tree groves.

The most popular time to visit is during March – April when the cherry blossom trees come into bloom.

They provide rare and spectacular sightseeing opportunities that only last a couple of weeks before they’re gone, so they’re quite special.

If you miss the blossoms, however, don’t fret!

There are other places of interest throughout the basin.

For example, it’s located near the National Mall, so you can hit up all of the major monuments and memorials of DC with your special someone by your side.

Another option is to rent the aforementioned paddleboats and spend an afternoon on the water; they’re available every season except winter.

Put on some nice clothes. Spritz yourself with your favorite fragrance.

It’s time for date night in Washington, DC, and the Tidal Basin is waiting.

Address: E Basin Drive NW Ohio Drive NW, Washington, DC 20003, United States

50. Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

You don’t have to be religious to appreciate this basilica.

Its towering domes look like something out of a renaissance painting from the 1800s, and the height of its bell tower puts it among the largest Catholic churches in the world.

The interior is just as grandiose as the exterior.

There are almost 100 shrines to the Virgin Mary alone, and they’re complemented by murals, mosaics, statues, roses and other beautiful and meaningful ornaments.

Elaborate altars are available for praying.

A crypt holds valuable relics like Pope Paul VI’s coronation tiara.

Surprisingly, the basilica is still open for everyday worship.

While other basilicas might be jealously-guarded historical sites, this one is free and open to the public, and it welcomes visitors of every age, gender, race and faith.

If you find yourself near the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception while visiting Washington, DC, consider going inside for awhile.

It’s okay if you’re a sinner. Mary won’t judge.

Address:  400 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017, United States

51. East Potomac Park

East Potomac Park

East Potomac Park is one of the best things to do in Washington DC.

It’s also one of the lesser-known tourist attractions.

When you put these two facts together, you’ll realize that you have the opportunity to experience a great place in the city without the usual crowds.

Outdoor amenities include a golf course, a public swimming pool and an entire series of athletic fields for tennis, soccer, rugby and football.

You can also go walking, jogging, driving, biking, skating and fishing along the various trails and piers.

In the spring, the cherry blossoms scatter pink petals on the sidewalks.

In the winter, snow covers the ground and turns everything into a winter wonderland.

Swing by East Potomac Park if you want to experience natural beauty in Washington, DC.

It isn’t all condos and traffic!

There are sedate, serene places as well, and they’re worth a stroll under the trees.

Address:  Ohio Dr SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

52. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Holding more than 2,200 events each year, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is one of the top destinations for art and culture in Washington DC.

It’s home to multiple venues, including theaters, concert halls and opera houses, and they’ve collectively welcomed millions of visitors since their foundation.

Do you like ballet?

Buy a ticket for the Nutcracker.

Are you a fan of classical music?

Check out shows by the National Symphony Orchestra or the Washington National Opera; they both call this location home.

Other events include plays, musicals, chamber concerts and more.

There are lectures and workshops for adults; there are educational games and activities for the little ones.

Many of these things are free, so if you’re wondering what to do in the city when you’re on a budget, it might behoove you to get a little culture.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a place that truly lives up to its name.

It’s a multicultural, multidisciplinary hub where there’s always something new and exciting going on.

Whether you’re visiting this weekend or next year, you can just look at the schedule and pick an event!

Address:  2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566, United States

53. Oki Bowl

OKI bowl at Georgetown

Do you dream of sushi? Do you live for late-night ramen?

Oki Bowl serves authentic Japanese cuisine in the heart of Washington, DC, and the only thing that outdoes the menu is the decor.

Dozens of mismatched lanterns hang from the ceiling.

The floor has black-and-white squares while the walls are covered in rainbow posters and oddly-shaped shelves crammed with toys and trinkets.

Even the bathrooms have eye-popping designs.

They’re painted with glowing blacklit landscapes that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into a neon nightclub or maybe a futuristic anime.

They’re so cool that their lines are always a mile long because people take so many pictures during their potty breaks!

Oki Bowl is a fun place to grab a bite to eat in Washington, DC.

If you find yourself craving some miso soup while you’re in the city, make the trek here.

It’s worth it.

Address:  1608 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

54. Rockefeller Mansion

Rockefeller Mansion

Located in a remote wilderness preserve and surrounded on all sides by leafy, privacy-giving hardwood trees, the Rockefeller Mansion is such a large and grandiose estate that it actually has two separate mailing addresses.

It was built in the 1920s and purchased a few decades later by U.S. Senator Jay Rockefeller.

It’s a real house, so it isn’t a tourist attraction that you can just walk up to and admire.

You’ll have to keep your distance.

If you love architecture, however, or if you enjoy finding treasures at the end of long hikes, it might be worth a side trip to see the Rockefeller Mansion.

You can snap a few photos from afar, and you can marvel at the fresh air and natural woodlands that surround the estate.

Washington, DC has very charming landscapes when you’re willing to venture out of downtown, and the Rockefeller Mansion is proof of that.

55. National Geographic Museum

National Geographic Museum

You know National Geographic.

Everyone knows National Geographic.

But were you aware that it’s also a museum in Washington, DC?

Filled with fun things to see and do, this interactive educational center will be a treat for the whole family.

Kids will love the games and activities that range from fossil digs to 3D movies about volcanoes and supernovas.

Teens will appreciate the scattered remains of shipwrecks and the larger-than-life taxidermy models of forgotten beasts.

Adults will enjoy learning something new about ancient civilizations from Peru, Greece and Machu Picchu.

There are special events hosted by the museum as well.

Whether it’s attending a class or exploring an exhibit after-hours, you can find plenty of neat things on the schedule.

The National Geographic Museum is one of the top things to do in Washington DC.

If you’ve ever flipped through the magazine at the dentist’s office, do yourself a favor and check out what it can really do with your undivided attention.

Address:  1145 17th St NW, Washington, DC 20036, United States

56. Victura Park

Victura Park

Another great place to get away from it all in Washington, DC, Victura Park is a lovely little landscape that overlooks both Theodore Roosevelt Island and the Potomac River.

It’s located on the back lawns of the Kennedy Center, but you don’t have to be a patron to enjoy the park.

You can just waltz in, spread your picnic blanket on the grass and enjoy the scenery.

Another option is buying your lunch from the outdoor pop-up and wine garden.

In true “pop-up” style, the menu is ever-changing, so this week’s dishes might not be next week’s dishes.

There are occasionally guest chefs who host events and classes.

If you do want to check out the Kennedy Center, it’s just a few steps away in a large, geometrically-cut building.

It isn’t free like the park, so you’ll need to buy a ticket, but it’s worth it.

If the lights and crowds of Washington, DC are starting to get to you, consider slowing down for awhile with Victura Park.

It’s one of those lovely, low-key places to see that can recharge your batteries for the rest of your vacation.

Address: 2700 F St. NW, Washington, DC 20566, United States

57. Skydive Capitol City

Skydive Capitol City

Did you know that you can cross “skydiving” off your bucket list when you visit DC?

You can’t jump off the Washington Monument or anything, but if you’re willing to take a short drive outside of the city, you can go nuts in the wide open fields of Virginia.

Skydive Capitol City is one of the best companies for it.

The owners actually hold Guinness World Records for their tandem skydiving, and all together, the staff has jumped out of planes more than 10,000 times.

You can take lessons or go tandem with an instructor if you’re a beginner.

You can also sign up for a freefall if you’re a licensed skydiver just looking to get your fix while you’re away from home.

All things considered, Skydive Capitol City can provide unforgettable memories while you’re in the area.

You’ll never feel more alive than when you’re risking death, so if you have the nerve, sign up for a skydiving session and get to work on that bucket list!

Address: Warrenton Airpark, 9272 Green Meadows Rd., Warrenton, VA 20187, United States

58. Lucky Strike

Lucky Strike Entertainment

Rainy days are a bummer during vacations.

Fortunately, when you’re visiting Washington, DC, you don’t have to let them stop you from having a grand old time!

Lucky Strike is just one indoor attraction in the DC area, but it’s so cool and creative that it deserves special attention.

As you might have guessed from the name, it’s primarily a bowling alley, and it offers more than a dozen state-of-the-art lanes equipped with lights, chimes and digital scoreboards.

But the fun doesn’t stop there.

You can play arcade games; you can sign up for a game of laser tag; you can hit the dance floor.

There are special events like Silent Disco Night.

There are exotic foods and tasty cocktails.

All in all, Lucky Strikes is one of the better attractions in Washington, DC, and it can be visited anytime.

It isn’t dependent on good weather.

If you’re wondering what to see in the city on a rainy day, put on your bowling shoes and come here!

Address:  701 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, United States

59. Tudor Place

Tudor Place / DC Gardens / flickr

Six generations of George Washington’s family lived and died within Tudor Place .

Originally built in the 1700s by the same architect who created the Capitol Building, it spent more than 100 years as the estate where the Washingtons lived, married, worked, retired and died.

Today, Tudor Place has been converted into a museum, and visitors can explore the property like they’re a long-lost relative.

The inside of the house has charmingly vintage furnishings; the outside has everything from gardens to carriage houses to elaborate, labyrinth-style hedges.

There’s even a bomb shelter!

It was built during the Cold War, and it’s open to the public as a fascinating relic that peeks into the past of an emotionally-charged era.

Tudor Place is one of the last remaining estates from the colonial period of Washington, DC.

If you’re a history buff, it’s a top 5 destination within the city.

It doesn’t get more historical than the silverware that was actually used by George Washington’s kin.

Address:  1644 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

60. J. Edgar Hoover Building

J. Edgar Hoover Building

You might know the J. Edgar Hoover Building as the headquarters of the FBI.

It’s another place that you wouldn’t expect to welcome visitors, but as long as you’re a U.S. citizen who books an advanced tour and complies with the “restricted items” list, you can indeed walk the halls of this venerable institution.

The tours are self-guided, so you’ll need to be comfortable on your own.

You can look at different articles, artifacts and multimedia exhibits as you move along the permitted areas.

All of the materials that you’ll see are dedicated to the history and legacy of the FBI.

It’s done some important work for the country, and those efforts are on full display here.

If you’ll be traveling to Washington, DC, make time for the J. Edgar Hoover Building.

It’s a rare opportunity to peek behind the curtain of a powerful organization, and with all of its stories and mementos, it’s also one of the best places to visit to learn about U.S. history.

Address:  935 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20535, United States

61. Gadsby’s

Gadsby’s

There are two locations called “ Gadsby’s .”

They’re at the same place and operated by the same people, but to avoid confusion, let’s look at them separately.

The first location is Gadsby’s Tavern.

It’s a complete throwback to the 18th century right down the period costumes worn by the waiters, so if you want dinner and a show, this is a fine place to get it.

The second location is Gadsby’s Tavern Museum.

Operating out of a restored version of the original building, it offers exhibits, workshops, classes and other educational events and activities for those who are interested in the colonial era.

The two Gadsby’s can make for quite the evening, so be sure to leave yourself enough time to visit both.

The original businesses were favorites of a whole host of important people, including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and James Monroe, so you won’t want to miss a chance to walk in their presidential footsteps.

Address:  134 N Royal St, Alexandria, VA 22314, United States

62. DC Dragon Boat Club

DC Dragon Boat Club

The DC Dragon Boat Club creates a weekly spectacle on the Potomac River, and after you’ve seen them splashing around for awhile, you’ll be itching to join the fun.

Practice sessions are for developing their rowing and paddling skills.

Races are for getting their adrenaline going as they compete against each other for bragging rights and the occasional cash prize.

Annual events include the DC Dragon Boat Festival, the Independence Dragon Boat Regatta and the Baltimore Dragon Boat Challenge.

One of the nicest things about the Dragon Boat Club is that they’re always open to newbies.

Even if you’re just a curious first-timer who’s never paddled a day in your life, they’ll welcome you to their practice sessions.

They’ll even provide the lifejacket!

Maybe you want to try something new.

Maybe you’re a pro racer looking to get back into the game.

Either way, the DC Dragon Boat Club can provide an exhilarating afternoon on the water, so don’t hesitate to hop down the riverbank and join them.

Address:  975 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024, United States

63. National Museum of Health and Medicine

National Museum of Health and Medicine

The National Museum of Health and Medicine is run by the U.S. government, but you wouldn’t know that by looking at its exhibitions.

Rather than being the dull, drone-like museum of school field trips, it’s a fun and dynamic place that disguises its lessons so cleverly that your kids will be begging to come back.

Organs are displayed in glass jars.

Hairballs are behind glass cases after being pulled from human stomachs.

Rare and vintage medical tool are everywhere; some are replicas, and others are rusted originals.

You can also see one-of-a-kind relics like the bullet that was pulled from Abraham Lincoln’s skull.

It still has trace amounts of brain matter on it.

If you’re seeking Washington DC attractions that offer something a little different than usual, try the National Museum of Health and Medicine.

It’s a nice mix of informative and educational, and whether you’re traveling with kids, colleagues, dates, spouses or no one at all, you can have a great time here.

Address:  2500 Linden Ln, Silver Spring, MD 20910, United States

64. Adventure Park

Adventure Park USA

The wind whips through your hair.

The straps dig into your chest.

You’re moving so fast that your cheeks are wobbling on your face, and you’re pretty sure that you left your stomach several stories beneath you.

Say hello to Adventure Park !

Located about an hour north of Washington, DC, Adventure Park is an outdoor recreation area that offers ziplines, roller coasters, rope courses, archery ranges, laser shows, hay rides, arcade games, mini-golf courses and much, much more.

There’s so much to see and do that your legs won’t be able to carry you to it all.

They’ll give out before you can finish.

Other amenities include a smokehouse restaurant where you can grab a bite to eat and an outdoor activity center where you can play with everything from excavators to genuine tomahawks.

Adventure Park is one of the most fun things to do in DC.

Technically speaking, it might fall outside of city limits, but it’s still close enough for a side trip.

The whole family can pack into the car and make a day of it!

Address:  11113 W Baldwin Rd, Monrovia, MD 21770, United States

65. National Archives Museum

National Archives Museum

Are you a bookworm? Are you a history buff?

Do you love pouring over handwritten papers and sepia-toned scrolls in the pursuit of historical knowledge?

Maybe you just enjoy the smell of old books.

No matter why you’re considering a visit to the National Archives Museum , you should know that it’s worth the trip.

More than three billion records call it home.

That’s billions with a “B.”

Its most famous documents are the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution, but there are plenty of others, including the Bill of Rights, the Magna Carta, the Louisiana Purchase and the Emancipation Proclamation.

When your eyes get tired from all of the reading, you can take a stroll through the large, neoclassical building and soak in the details of its artwork and architecture.

There are also various educational rooms filled with things like telegrams and video recordings for further review.

The National Archives Museum is more than just a museum.

It’s a piece of history that can be explored at will.

If you’re at all interested in the foundation of the United States, you won’t want to miss this place when you’re visiting Washington, DC.

Address:  701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408, United States

66. Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill is one of the oldest neighborhoods in DC.

It’s also one of the most centrally located if you’re looking to pack a lot of tourist attractions into a busy schedule.

Like the name suggests, the Capitol Building is less than a mile away.

The Senate, the House of Congress and the Supreme Court Building are all within walking distance.

You can also find lesser-known locales like the Washington Navy Yard and the Congressional Cemetery nearby.

Flea markets and farmer’s markets crop up every weekend.

In the summer, musicians play in the parks; in the winter, there’s sledding down the actual Capitol Hill.

You can also enjoy yourself just by taking a scenic stroll around the rowhouses.

Capitol Hill looks exactly like what you’d expect from a neighborhood in Washington, DC, and it can be oddly satisfying to realize that.

No matter how you choose to spend your time on Capitol Hill, you’re sure to love it.

There’s a reason why it’s such an enduring community in the city.

Once you’ve seen what it has to offer, it’ll be hard to say goodbye.

67. Haunted Halcyon House

Haunted Halcyon House / AgnosticPreachersKid at en.wikipedia / CC BY-SA

At first glance, the Haunted Halcyon House looks like any other stately building located in the upper-class regions of Georgetown.

It isn’t until you learn about its sordid past that you realize the twisted depths of its legacy.

For starters, the Haunted Halcyon House has gone through dozens of owners since 1787, and nearly all of them have reported strange tidings around the house.

There are also grisly rumors about runaway slaves that have perished in the basement and widows who have gone mad with grief and hung themselves from the rafters.

One confirmable fact is that the Haunted Halcyon House was owned by the death-obsessed Albert Clemens in the 19th century.

A cousin to Mark Twain, Clemens believed that he could somehow stave off the Grim Reaper by making a series of bizarre, inexplicable changes to the home, including stairs that lead to nowhere and trap doors that are just waiting for unsuspecting victims.

You can view the Haunted Halcyon House as part of many “ghost tours” in Washington, DC, or you can simply visit it as a one-time attraction.

The choice is yours. The spookiness will always be there.

Address: 3400 Prospect Street NW, Washington, DC 20007, United States

68. Monuments by Moonlight DC Night Tour

End your vacation with the Monuments by Moonlight DC Night Tour .

It’ll provide a beautiful and slightly surreal look at some of the most unforgettable sights in the city, so if you want to leave a lasting impression of Washington, DC in your memory, this is the way to do it.

Like its name suggests, the Monuments by Moonlight tour is done entirely at night.

The “moon” part may or may not happen depending on the weather, but even if it stays hidden behind the clouds, you can still enjoy the tour.

Since so much of the city is made with white marble, including the dome of the Capitol Building, it has a natural nighttime glow.

Other stops on the tour include the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King Memorial and the Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to fun and interesting stories from a local tour guide; it’s the kind of stuff that you would never get from a travel brochure.

It’s hard to say goodbye to an amazing city like Washington, DC, but this tour can give you one last hurrah before you go.

It’ll be an amazing experience that you’ll remember long after you’ve returned home.

Start Planning Your Trip To Washington, DC

These are a few of the most fun things to do in Washington, DC.

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25 Best Things To Do In Washington DC: The Ultimate Bucket List

October 20, 2021 //  by  Southern Trippers

If you’re looking for the best things to do in Washington DC then you’ve come to the right place. The United States of America’s capital city is full of amazing activities and sites. Because it is the nation’s capital, you can expect it to be fairly busy, no matter what time of year you decide to visit.

Planning your trip to Washington DC last minute?

Hotels and tours sell out fast! Make sure to book in advance to ensure availability. Here are our top picks for Washington DC:

Top Experiences And Tours To Book In Advance:

• Monuments By Moonlight Tour (Our pick!)
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour (Easy to get around)
• Gourmet Dining Cruise (Can choose brunch or dinner)
• Capital Wheel Entry Ticket (Save time in line)

Best Places To Stay In Washington DC:

• The Architec t (Our choice for location)
• Citizen M Washington DC Capito l (Hip and modern)
• Glover Park Hotel Georgetown (four stars)
• Hotel Washington (Panoramic views!)

All throughout the year politicians live in the city, tourists come to see the many Washington DC attractions, and of course, people live there year-round. If you go in the fall, you’ll get to see the fall foliage surrounding the monuments. In the spring, people come from all over the world to see the Cherry Blossom Festival. In the winter, the city comes alive with twinkling lights and holiday spirit. The summer months are probably the busiest months to explore activities in Washington DC, even though it can be pretty hot.

Some of the best things to do in Washington DC are the many museums. Most of the museums in DC are free and part of the Smithsonian group of museums. There are also monuments, memorials, historic homes and buildings, and so much more. No matter what you are interested in, there are definitely fun things to do in DC that you’ll love. So, let’s take a look at 25 of the best things to do in Washington DC to make the ultimate bucket list! Don’t forget to check out our list of the best boutique hotels in Washington DC to plan your visit!

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

If you want to see as much of the city as possible, then you absolutely need to do a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour . The great thing about a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is that you can use it as public transportation almost. The bus follows a loop around the city, and as long as you have a pass, you can catch the bus at any point along its route. You can also stop at any point on the route as well.

As you drive around the city, you’ll see all the sites. You’ll also have an experienced tour guide accompanying you. They’ll make sure to tell you about the different stopping points, major sites, and more as you pass by. They are also typically DC locals, so they’re great resources for pretty much any question you might have about Washington DC. You won’t regret getting passes for the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours through DC.

Book Here: Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

Go Inside The Washington Monument

Not many people know that you can actually go inside the Washington Monument. The tall obelisk is actually hollow inside. When you walk into the lobby of the monument you’ll see beautiful stone walls and a statue of George Washington. You can choose to take the elevator or walk the 897 steps to the top. On the 490 foot level of the monument, there is a small museum.

Inside the small museum, you’ll see information about the building of the monument. The top floor and observation deck is located at 500 feet, just above the museum. From the observation deck, on a clear day, you’ll be able to see Washington DC, Virginia, and Maryland. It is free to go to the observation deck, but you’ll need to reserve timed-entry tickets ahead of time. So if this is something you’re interested in doing, make sure to plan ahead.

This is one of our favorite Fun Kids Activities In DC!

Walk Around The Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool At Sunset

There are several reflecting pools in Washington DC, but the largest is the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. One of the best things to do in Washington DC is to walk around the reflecting pool as the sunsets. The pool is located on the National Mall and is by the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. The reflecting pool has been an iconic part of the National Mall since it was installed in 1923.

We like to experience the reflecting pool at sunset for a few different reasons. Typically most of the tourists have left the area for the day by then. So you’ll often find that at sunset it is much quieter and very peaceful. The way the reflecting pool is positioned also means that as the sunsets you get a real show. You can see the sunset in the reflection of the pool and set behind the Washington Monument. Sunset at the reflecting pool is one of the must-do things in Washington DC.

The National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery is one of our absolute favorite free things to do in Washington DC. It is part of the Smithsonian collection of museums in DC. The Smithsonian museums are all free to visit daily, and the National Portrait Gallery is one of the best ones. One of the things we love about it is the stunning courtyard. It features a stunning glass ceiling, a cafe with tables and chairs, art, and live trees and plants. It’s a great place to relax after looking at all of the amazing art on display in the museum.

Throughout the rest of the gallery, you’ll see some beautiful pieces of art. They are all portraits, many of them of famous Americans. In fact, you’ll find a portrait uniquely painted of each President and First lady. They are all done in different art styles, and most of the artists are personally chosen by the President and First Lady. You’ll also see classic examples of portraiture throughout art history. From classic portraits, early photographs, and more. It’s a really cool way to see how different time periods have captured the human spirit.

Visit Ford’s Theater

One of the most interesting places to visit in Washington DC is Ford’s Theater. The theater is a historic site, known for the place where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated . The President’s Box, where the assassination happened, is closed to the public to protect it from damage. But you can view the box when you tour the theater. There is also a museum that focuses on the history of the theater and gives more details on the assassination of President Lincoln.

Depending on when you visit, you can enjoy a historic talk by a National Park Ranger in the theater. They are offered year-round, along with self-guided tours. In the spring and summer months, there is also a 30-minute play that is performed on the theater’s stage. It tells the story of the assassination through the eyes of the theater workers that night. It’s one of the best things to do in Washington DC, especially if you are interested in the history of President Lincoln.

Book Here: Ford Theater and Lincoln Assassination Tour

Go On A Tour Of The Monuments At Night

If you’re looking for things to do in DC at night, then we suggest going on a guided tour of the monuments at night. There are several companies that offer trolley tours and bus tours of the monuments at night . The tours typically last about two and a half hours. You’ll meet the trolley or bus at a designated spot and from there you’ll see some of the most famous monuments all lit up at night.

Some of the stops included on the tour are FDR Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial. Along the way, you’ll have an experienced tour guide who will tell you about the history of each of the monuments. There are even tours where you can learn about the ghost stories and some of the creepier aspects of the cities history. It’s one of the best activities in Washington DC.

Book Here: Monuments at Night Tour

Stroll The Streets Of Georgetown

There are tons of free things to do in Washington DC, like walking the streets of Georgetown . The beautiful cobblestone streets are full of charming shops, restaurants, some of the most luxurious hotels in the city.

You’ll find a mixture of high-end shops, local boutiques, and more mainstream popular shops to peruse. If you’re looking for restaurants in Washington DC to try, this is one of the best areas in the city to find some amazing restaurants . This is truly one of the best places to stay in Washington DC!

When you step off of the main street that runs through Georgetown , there is a charming historic neighborhood. There are cobblestone sidewalks and streets, colorful row homes and brownstones, and even a river. It’s an incredibly charming area of Washington DC that not many people think to explore off of the main street. That’s what makes it one of the best

Book Here: Georgetown Tour

See The White House

You can’t go to Washington DC without seeing the White House. The White House is known as America’s Home and is where the President of the United States lives. You’ll be able to easily see the White House from the street on NW Pennsylvania Avenue. The view will be from behind the black wrought iron fence and you’ll also see the expansive lawn in front of the house.

If you want to tour the inside of the White House, you’ll need some advance planning. To tour the inside, you need to send a request for a public tour through your congressman. The request needs to be made at least three months in advance and be warned that spots for the public tours fill up fast. The tours themselves are free and run daily but at various times.

Jefferson Memorial And Tidal Basin

One of the most popular monuments in DC is the Jefferson Memorial. The large open-air structure is designed in a Greek Pantheon style, which was a favorite architectural style of Jefferson. Inside the memorial, there is a domed room with tall ceilings. The inside is made entirely of marble and has carved images and quotes famously attributed to Jefferson. There is also a large bronze statue of Jefferson in the middle.

Outside, all around the memorial is a beautifully landscaped area. It sits on the south side of the Tidal Basin and there is a park area that has a green lawn and shady trees. The Jefferson Memorial is also where many of the famous Washington DC Cherry Blossoms are planted. During the Cherry Blossom Festival that is held yearly, the pink blooms of the trees create a beautiful view all around the white marble memorial building.

Book Here: Cherry Blossom Tour

National Museum Of African American History And Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is one of the newest Smithsonian museums to open in Washington DC. It opened in September of 2016 and since has been one of the most popular museums in Washington DC to visit. Because it is so popular, you’ll need to plan your trip in advance. Because it is a Smithsonian museum, it is free to enter. However, you’ll need to get reserve timed-entry tickets well in advance. You can get the tickets up to 30 days in advance or through a third party, go on a walking tour and see the museum as well.

Inside the museum, you’ll follow a path that leads you through the history of black people in the United States. It starts with the honest history of the transatlantic slave trade and how that shaped the history of America and black people. From there, you’ll learn about the history of black people during the 1800s and the Civil War and into the Civil Rights Movement of the early 20th century.

Towards the end of the museum tour, there are exhibits on the culture of black people in America. You’ll learn about famous black musicians, artists, authors, actors, and more. It’s one of the best things to do in Washington DC and is a great way to learn about black history in America.

Book Here: National Museum of African American History and Culture Tour

Museum Of Natural History

Another incredibly popular Smithsonian museum in Washington DC is the Museum of Natural History . The massive museum is one of the best free things to do in Washington DC. You can easily spend hours looking at the thousands of items on display from the museum’s over 145 million specimen collection. There are three floors of exhibits all detailing the natural history of the world.

You’ll get to see dinosaur skeletons, million-year-old fossils, and life-size replicas of long-extinct animals. There is also a permanent exhibit detailing the practices and rituals of ancient Egypt. Another permanent exhibit that is super popular is the museum’s collection of gemstones and minerals. There you’ll see huge rubies, examples of volcanic rock, and even pieces of meteorites from outer space. It’s one of the coolest places to visit in Washington DC.

Book Here: Museum of Natural History Tour

National Botanical Gardens

The National Botanical Gardens is the oldest continuously operating botanic garden in the US. It was originally established in 1820 and is technically a garden. The main purpose of the museum is to show the importance of plant life to all mankind. The gardens are free to enter and there is also a large conservatory on the property. It is also open daily from dawn until dusk, even on weekends and holidays.

As you walk around the grounds you’ll find several different types of gardens. There is a Rose Garden, a Pollinator Garden, and even a Kitchen Garden. The grounds also feature the First Ladies Water Garden, which is dedicated to the First Ladies of the United States. Inside the conservatory, there are exotic plants and plants that only grow in warm environments like cacti.

Tudor Place Historic House

One of the best things to do in Washington DC is a visit to the Tudor Place Historic House. Tudor Place was the home of the granddaughter of Martha Washington, and step-grandaughter of George Washington, Martha Curtis Peter. The house is a classic Federal-style, which was an incredibly popular architectural design in early America. It is actually the only home in Washington DC that still has direct links to the country’s first President and First Lady.

The historic home was built in 1805 and until 1983 was the private family home for generations of Peters. The final private owner of the home wanted it to become a house museum on his passing, and in 1988 it opened to the public as just that. Now you can tour the home and see how it would have looked throughout its over 200-year life. You’ll learn about the Peter family, the enslaved people that once worked and lived there, and see how the lives of the people who called it home changed along with the rest of the country.

International Spy Museum

The International Spy Museum is easily one of the best things to do in Washington DC with kids. The museum is massive and features five floors of permanent and temporary exhibits. When you first enter the museum, you’ll be given a brief to participate in a top-secret mission. As you walk through the exhibits, you’ll encounter interactive areas that help you complete your mission. These different interactive areas coincide with the different aspects of the field of espionage.

In the museum, you’ll learn about early espionage and what that looked like all the way up to more modern ideas of what a spy does. You’ll get to see examples of spy technology throughout history and learn why espionage is an important part of every country’s defense system. It’s one of the best things to do in Washington DC with kids because the interactive exhibits are super fun. They’ll love going from exhibit to exhibit, where they’ll learn cool stuff while also pretending to be spies.

Book Here: International Spy Museum Tour

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is actually in Virginia, but it’s still one of the best things to do near Washington DC. It’s not very far away, however. In fact, it’s just across the Potomac River from DC and you can see the city from the cemetery. The cemetery was land that was originally owned by Confederate General Robert E. Lee. However, the US government bought it during the Civil War to serve as a burial place for fallen soldiers.

Ever since the cemetery has served as the cemetery for soldiers who have died in war and other conflicts. There are even several Revolutionary Soldiers who were later reinterred at Arlington National Cemetery. To many, being buried in the cemetery is a great honor and it has become a place for people to pay their respects to all fallen soldiers. It is also home to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The tomb is actually a crypt that holds the remains of unidentified soldiers who died in WWI, WWII, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War.

Every year, the President and First Lady come to the tomb on Veteran’s Day where a memorial service is held to honor all the servicemen and women who have died protecting the nation. It is a solemn and beautiful place and it’s one of the best things to do near Washington DC.

Book Here: Arlington National Cemetery Tour

Dumbarton Oaks

If you’re in Georgetown, we highly suggest stopping to spend some time at Dumbarton Oaks. Dumbarton Oaks was once a private estate. The historic estate is now the home of a research library, beautiful gardens, and an extensive art collection. The museum is open daily, but the schedule can vary. There is a small fee to enter and you’ll need to reserve timed-entry tickets in advance if you plan to visit.

Throughout the month, on certain days of the week, they offer guided tours based on one of the aspects of the museum. You can take a tour of the estate’s most prominent architectural features, tour the gardens, or get a guided tour of the museum’s highlights. The estate has a permanent and extensive collection of Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art. There are also still pieces of the owner of the home’s original art collection. It’s one of the coolest Washington DC attractions.

U.S. National Arboretum

The U.S. National Arboretum is one of the coolest places to visit in Washington DC. It’s been open since 1927 and aims to teach people about the native plant life that is found in the United States. The park is over 400 acres and there are also over 9 miles of winding roads and trails throughout the park.

On the grounds, there are tons of different gardens, planned forests, educational buildings. If you want a bit of break from city activities or are looking for fun things to do in Washington DC with kids, the National Arboretum is a great option. You could easily spend hours exploring the quiet and beautiful scenery.

Stroll The Gardens Of The Smithsonian Castle

The Smithsonian Castle is actually named the Smithsonian Institution Building and is where you’ll find the Smithsonian Visitor Center. The castle was built in 1855 and is one of the prettiest historic buildings in DC. Outside of the castle, there is an extensive garden area that is free to explore and walk through. The garden is located between the castle and Independence Avenue. It’s actually a newer feature of the castle grounds as it was opened in 1987.

The pathway through the garden is made of beautiful brick that is wide enough for several people to walk down. Along the pathway, there are also benches where you can sit and admire the beauty of the garden. The centerpiece of the garden is the Parterre, which is a French-style decorative garden. It features bright and colorful foliage that the landscapers change out seasonally. So no matter what time of year you visit, the gardens of the Smithsonian Castle are one of the most romantic things to do in Washington DC.

Go On A Segway Tour

One way to see all the best Washington DC attractions in a short amount of time is to go on a segway tour through the city. If you’ve never ridden a segway before, don’t worry. Before you begin your tour through the city, you’ll spend 30 minutes learning how to ride a segway and practicing. Once you feel comfortable navigating around on your segway, you’ll start your tour of Washington DC.

The tour typically lasts about two hours and you’ll see almost every major site in the city. Your first stop is the White House, and from there you’ll see sites like the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the US Capitol. It’s also one of the best things to do in Washington DC with kids. They’ll love riding around on the segways and seeing the city.

Book Here: Washington DC Segway Tour

United States Holocaust Museum

The United States Holocaust Museum opened in 1993 and has been a poignant and popular museum ever since. It’s one of the best things to do in Washington DC. The museum is free to enter, but you’ll need to plan your visit in advance. You can get a timed entry ticket up to 30 days in advance, and time slots fill up quickly.

At the entrance to the museum, you’ll be given a card with the name of a real-life holocaust victim. As you go through the museum, you’ll follow in the footsteps of the victims. From the rise of Hitler, the start of the ghettos, and the journey to the concentration camps. At the end of your journey through the museum, you’ll learn the fate of the person whose card you were given when you first entered. It’s a sad museum, but it’s an incredibly important piece of history to learn about and honor.

National Air And Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is one of the coolest Washington DC attractions. It is part of the Smithsonian collection of museums, so it’s free to enter. The museum has been open since 1976 and is in one of the Smithsonian flagship buildings. There are two floors of activities, all centered around America’s flight and space history.

It’s also one of the best things to do in Washington DC with kids. There is a virtual reality interactive exhibit where you can experience a real-life flight simulation and feel what it’s like to do a 360-degree barrel roll. The museum also has different planes throughout history, the Hubble telescope, and a timeline of the space race. At different times during the day, there are also science experiments and other hands-on activities that are great for kids.

The Lincoln Memorial

Just two years after Lincoln’s assassination, Congress incorporated the Lincoln Monument Association to plan the building of the memorial building. However, it took several decades for construction to start on the memorial and it wasn’t finished in 1920. It was not dedicated until 1922. Despite the enormous amount of time it took to be completed, it’s one of the most iconic monuments in Washington DC.

The memorial was modeled after the Pantheon in Greece and is 190 feet long and 99 feet tall. It is made of beautiful Colorado Yule marble. Inside the memorial, there is a large marble statue of Lincoln seated, placed high above visitors in the center of the chamber. There are murals painted on the wall depicting various stages of Lincoln’s life and carved quotes attributed to Lincoln.

The Renwick Gallery

If you’re looking for one of the coolest places to visit in Washington DC, you should go to the Renwick Gallery. The gallery is a branch of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. In this branch, you’ll be able to see a large collection of contemporary and decorative arts. Because it is a Smithsonian museum, it is free to enter.

Inside the museum, there are a few permanent exhibits and they also have revolving exhibits as well. On the first floor of the gallery is where the revolving exhibits are typically placed. They change about twice a year and are usually from up-and-coming artists. On the second floor, the gallery usually has works by more famous artists on display. All of the artwork is by American artists. The Renwick Gallery is easily one of the best free things to do in Washington DC.

National Museum Of The American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian is one of the best things to do in Washington DC. It is another amazing museum in the Smithsonian museum’s complex, which means it is free to enter. It’s truly one of the best free things to do in Washington DC. In the museum, there are several floors that feature a wide range of both permanent and temporary exhibits.

While you explore the museum, you’ll learn about the honest history of Native Americans in America. You’ll see how they lived before European settlers arrived, learn the devastating impacts European settlers had on the Native American nations, and more. The museum also highlights the different cultures and beliefs of the various Native American nations. Depending on when you visit, you may also be able to see a live performance of a dance, song, or other culturally significant performance on one of the museum’s many stages.

The National Archives Museum

One of the must-do things in Washington DC is the National Archives Museum. The National Archives Museum is where some of the most important documents in American history are held and displayed. You might recognize the museum from National Treasure . Nicholas Cage and his crew of mystery solvers steal the Declaration of Independence from the National Archives Museum where it is on display.

In the rotunda of the museum, you’ll be able to see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights. All three documents are locked in glass cases to protect them from damage, and of course rogue treasure hunters like Nicholas Cage. Throughout the museum, you’ll also get to see other important documents and historical records that pertain to the United States of America. It’s easily one of the coolest activities in Washington DC.

Where To Eat In Washington DC

Founding farmers.

If you are looking for a great restaurant in Washington DC, we highly suggest trying Founding Farmers. It is just three blocks away from the White House, which means it’s in a perfect location. Stop by and enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner while you sightsee. They have Bourbon Battered French Toast, Avocado Toast, Salmon Bites, and other burgers and sandwiches.

For a more fine dining experience in DC, head to The Dabney. The Dabney uses high-quality ingredients in its seasonal menu. Reservations aren’t required, but this is a popular restaurant, so they are highly suggested. Sit down for dinner and try menu items like their Maryland Blue Crab, Chesapeake Rockfish, and a dessert of Toasted Benne Ice Cream. While you are in town, consider checking out some of the best Black-Owned Restaurants In DC!

Zaytinya is a popular Mediterranean restaurant near the Smithsonian museums that is delicious and reasonably priced. They serve lunch and dinner and a wide variety of Mediterranean dishes. Start your meal with a plate of Hommus or an Artisinal Cheese Pikilia. For your entree, you may like the Kebab Platter, Octopus Santorini, Spanakorizo, or Falafel Durum. Finish your meal with coffee and Greek Cheesecake or Turkish Coffee Chocolate Cake.

This is truly one of the best things to do in Washington DC at night!

Where To Stay In Washington DC

Moxy washington dc.

The Moxy Washington DC is a relatively new hotel in DC. It is located near several major Metro Stations, Chinatown, Logan Circle, and the White House. You’ll be centrally located in this trendy but reasonably priced hotel.

They have a variety of different room options to fit every budget. It’s an especially popular hotel stay for young solo travelers and couples. It comes with fewer frills than many nearby hotels, but it is a fresh and fun hotel that is near some of the best Washington DC activities.

Click Here To Check Rates: Booking.com

The Eaton DC is a great option for travelers with a more eco-friendly frame of mind. The hotel is eco-certified, which means it uses all-natural and organic products. From the sheets to the snacks and beverages in the mini-bar, everything is chosen with eco-consciousness in mind.

On top of that, the rooms are designed to feel like home away from home. They are full of curated furniture and decor that feels cozy and not so much like a hotel room. They even come with personal record players and a selection of vinyl records. It is also centrally located near the White House, the National Gallery of Art, and the Smithsonian Museums.

The St. Regis Washington DC

For a more luxurious stay in Washington DC, we love the St. Regis Hotel. The St. Regis is definitely higher in price, but it is truly a beautiful hotel. It has been welcoming guests to Washington DC for over a century. World leaders, Hollywood icons, foreign dignitaries, and everyone in between have spent some time at the St. Regis.

There are luxury suites, smaller guest rooms, fine dining restaurants, and luxurious amenities as well. Because it is a luxury experience, you can expect to spend, at the least, about $400 a night. However, if you are celebrating or simply wanting to enjoy Washington DC like a Hollywood starlet, you can’t go wrong staying at the St. Regis.

Washington DC is one of our favorite cities to visit. Because it’s the nation’s capital, you’ll find tons of things to do in Washington DC. From the amazing museums, beautiful monuments, and fun tours, DC is a fun place to visit! Have you ever been to Washington DC? If so, what was your favorite Washington DC activity? We’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington, D.C.

Written by Becca Blond and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Whether you are marveling at its white marble monuments and memorials, learning about history in one of its free museums, or getting a feel for how locals live in one of its vibrant neighborhoods, Washington, D.C. emits a pulsating energy not found anywhere else in the U.S. The District of Colombia is a city you can explore dozens of times and have a completely different experience with each visit.

Designed by Pierre-Charles L'Enfant at the request of George Washington, America's capital city sits on the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. It is located on land specifically set aside after the Revolutionary War to keep the federal government from being in a single state.

L'Enfant planned D.C. to feel larger than life with its wide avenues, inspirational marble buildings, public squares, and a magnificent "public walk" that is the National Mall. The city is split into four quadrants: NW, NE, SW, and SE and its layout is a street grid intersected by avenues.

First-time visitors flock to its list of must-see attractions like the White House, Capitol Building, and museums, monuments, and memorials, perfectly spaced along its park-style National Mall. But beyond these famed attractions, you will find another DC. One ruled by locals and influenced by the host of long-term international residents, that is filled with eclectic neighborhoods including U Street , Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle, and Georgetown.

This is a city where you can eat your way across the world's food scene in the space of a few miles. It is also a city that boasts a world-class arts scene and outdoor experiences from paddleboarding on the Potomac River to walking or biking along the C&O Canal towpath.

If you can avoid visiting DC in the summer, do so. Besides being unpleasantly hot and humid, summers are when you'll see the biggest crowds. The best times to visit Washington are spring and autumn.

Plan your trip to the nation's capital with our list of the top attractions in Washington, D.C.

1. United States Capitol and Capitol Hill

2. the lincoln memorial, 3. national mall and veterans memorials, 4. the white house, 5. the washington monument, 6. national air and space museum, 7. national gallery of art, 8. united states holocaust memorial museum, 9. library of congress, 10. national museum of natural history, 11. national museum of american history, 12. national museum of african american history and culture, 13. jefferson memorial and tidal basin, 14. the john f. kennedy center for the performing arts, 15. national zoological park, 16. national archives, 17. international spy museum, 18. arlington national cemetery, 19. washington national cathedral, 20. georgetown historic district, 21. smithsonian american art museum and national portrait gallery, 22. u.s. botanic garden, 23. u street corridor, 24. the wharf, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to washington, d.c., best time to visit washington, d.c..

Recognized around the world as a symbol of the United States, the Capitol is the seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The huge dome, based on the dome of St. Peter's in Rome, stands out above all other Washington buildings.

Like Washington itself, the building has grown over the years since the central portion was built between 1793 and 1812. The last addition, in 1958-62, enlarged the main façade where presidents take the oath. On the other side, a marble terrace offers beautiful views over the mall and the city.

The interior is resplendent with frescoes, reliefs, and paintings, especially the rotunda under the great cast-iron dome with a ceiling painting by Constantino Brumidi and huge paintings of scenes from American history on the walls. Beside it is the former Chamber of the House of Representatives, with statues of leading historical figures. The small Senate Rotunda leads into the beautifully restored Old Senate Chamber, where the Senate met until 1859, and the Supreme Court until 1935.

When free tours resume, they can be reserved online and begin at the visitor center on the lower floor, where there is an interesting exhibition on the building's history. Free tours on weekday afternoons explore the ornate paintings on the walls and ceilings of the corridors in the Senate wing, designed by Brumidi between 1857 and 1859. To visit the Senate or House in session, you need to contact your Senator or Representative for a pass; foreign visitors can arrange visits through the visitor center.

East of the Capitol are the Supreme Court Building; the Library of Congress; and Folger Shakespeare Library, home of the world's largest collection of the printed works of William Shakespeare .

The Capitol Hill neighborhood extends southeast, with the lively Eastern Market, a farmers market with craft vendors, as well.

The best-loved of all Washington's memorials, the Lincoln Memorial stands at the far end of the mall, separated from the Washington Monument by the Reflecting Pool. At its center is a 19-foot marble statue of a seated and pensive President Abraham Lincoln surrounded by 36 columns, one for each of the states that existed at the time of Lincoln's death. This is the most famous work designed by noted sculptor Daniel Chester French. Jules Guerin painted the murals on the inside walls, showing important events in Lincoln's life.

Since its completion in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial has been the scene of a number of historic events. In 1939, when the all-white Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) refused to let celebrated African American singer Marian Anderson perform at a concert in nearby Constitution Hall, President Franklin Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt arranged for her to give an open-air concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, attended by 75,000 people and broadcast to millions of radio listeners.

Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I have a dream..." speech from the memorial steps in 1963, again making history here.

Visiting this and other Mall monuments is one of the favorite things to do in Washington, D.C. at night. The monuments are all lighted, and many, like the Lincoln Memorial, are open 24 hours. The statue of Lincoln is especially powerful lighted at night inside the darkened interior of the temple and framed by the floodlit white columns.

The spacious swath of lawns and pools that form a wide greenbelt from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial is also the site of many of Washington's landmark buildings and monuments. Most prominent at its center point is the Washington Monument , and war memorials include those to veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial , a poignant wall inscribed with the names of all American servicemen and women who lost their lives or are missing, is one of Washington's most visited memorials. The nearby Vietnam Women's Memorial has a bronze sculpture of three servicewomen helping a wounded soldier. The Korean War Veterans Memorial contains 19 steel sculptures of soldiers. The newest, American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial was dedicated in 2014.

If you look at a Washington, D.C. attractions map, you'll notice that many of them line the National Mall, so you're likely to spend a lot of time here. Along with providing a park for walking, running, and picnicking, the Mall is a place for celebrations and festivals. Best known of these is the annual Independence Day celebration with fireworks around the Washington Monument.

Also in July, the Smithsonian American Folk Life Festival fills the Mall with music, crafts, performances, storytelling, cultural programs, and food from various regions around the country. The Smithsonian Kite Festival is held here in late March or early April.

On summer evenings, you can often find military bands performing at venues along the Mall. The US Navy Band has concerts at the Capitol steps overlooking the Mall on Mondays and on Tuesdays at Navy Memorial. The US Air Force Band performs on the capitol steps on Tuesdays and at the Air Force Memorial on Fridays.

Location: Between Constitution Avenue and Independence Avenue, Washington, D.C.

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. The home of every president except George Washington, it was originally built by James Hoban in 1792, and after being burned down by British forces in 1814 was rebuilt in 1818.

Although tours of the interior that include the East, Blue, Green, and Red Rooms; the Ballroom; and the State Dining Room must be reserved well in advance through your Congressional office or embassy, every tourist to Washington will want to see this iconic building, at least from the outside.

The free White House Visitor Center , a short distance away, has excellent interactive exhibits, which show details about the White House and the presidential families. It includes furniture of past presidents, a model of the residence, historical changes, and videos with insights from presidents about their time living there.

The Ellipse , a 54-acre stretch of lawn stretching to Constitution Avenue, hosts summer concerts by the US Army Band. Next door to the White House are the elaborate 1833 Greek Revival Treasury Building and the 1871 Executive Office Building , one of the most striking old government buildings in Washington. From Lafayette Square, one of the city's best-known, statues of Lafayette and others overlook the White House.

Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/whho/index.htm

The 555-foot white shaft of the Washington Monument is a familiar icon of the National Mall, and a beautiful sight, especially when mirrored in the long Reflecting Pool at its foot. Construction of the obelisk to honor the nation's first president did not proceed smoothly. The plan was approved by Congress in 1783, but ground wasn't broken until 1848.

When the tower reached 156 feet in height in 1854, political wrangling and lack of funds stopped the project for several years, and the Civil War caused further interruption so that the tower was not capped until 1885, when it was finally completed by the Army Corps of Engineers.

You can still see the separate stages of its building by three changes in the color of its facing stones; inside are engraved stones from states, cities, foreign countries, individuals, and civic groups, many of them donors who helped in its private funding stages. You can take an elevator to the very top for aerial views over the mall and much of Washington. The base of the monument is surrounded by a circle of 50 American Flags.

Address: 15th & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

The National Air and Space Museum is one of the world's most popular museums, with a collection of history-making air and spacecraft that includes the original 1903 Wright Brothers Flyer and Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis , the first plane to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

More recent flight history is represented here by the Apollo 11 command module , part of the first manned lunar landing mission. Permanent and changing exhibitions illustrate the science, history, and technology of aviation and space flight, covering topics like the use of air power in both world wars, the space race, flight pioneers, and up-to-the-minute flight and space technology.

Many of the exhibits are interactive, and all contain actual historical objects, such as a moon rock you can touch. Not only do permanent exhibits illustrate the history, they show the how and why of flight and space science, explaining how things fly, how jet engines work, and what keeps the International Space Station in orbit.

In addition to the exhibits, there is the Albert Einstein Planetarium , an IMAX theater, and the Public Observatory on the east terrace, where you can examine lunar craters and see planets and other astronomical features through telescopes. Flight simulators (fee charged) allow kids and adults to fly combat missions with aerial maneuvers like 360-degree barrel rolls or experience naval aviation in an F-18 Super Hornet.

The museum is also the home of the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, adjacent to Dulles Airport, and has even more historic aircraft and space exploration artifacts, including a Concorde and the space shuttle Discovery . You can watch from observation walkways through the hangars where experts are restoring historic aircraft.

The Air and Space Museum is currently undergoing a seven-year makeover that will transform not only the arrangement of 23 galleries, but the way it interprets the history and science of flight. During renovations, a number of the exhibits will be closed, so if particular exhibits are of special interest, you can consult the museum's website to find out if they are open.

Address: 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.nasm.si.edu

Housed in two separate buildings connected by a tunnel, the National Gallery of Art is one of the world's premier art museums and one of the most popular in the U.S. Based on the sizable collection of financier and later Treasury Secretary Andrew Mellon, its large and diverse collection includes masterpieces of European and American paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts.

Frequent temporary exhibitions add to this outstanding permanent collection to highlight arts from cultures around the world. Among the highlights is Ginevra de Benci, the only Da Vinci painting in any American museum. Others include works by major French Impressionists - Monet, Degas, and Renoir -- and other masterpieces by Rembrandt, El Greco, and Vermeer.

The newer East Wing features sculptures by Henry Moore, a mobile by Alexander Calder, and other modern works. Free concerts are held at the National Gallery on Sunday evenings from fall through spring.

Also part of the Smithsonian Institution and located on the mall are the two museums that comprise the National Museum of Asian Art. These are the Freer Gallery of Art and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery , which houses more than 1,000 pieces, principally Chinese jade and bronze, Chinese paintings and lacquerware, and ancient Near Eastern ceramics and metalware.

The Freer collection includes nearly 30,000 pieces of Asian artworks, including Buddhist sculptures and Persian manuscripts, one of the most extensive collections in the world. The Freer also features 19th-century and early 20th-century American art, most notably a large collection of work by James McNeill Whistler.

The drum-shaped Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden traces the history of modern art from the mid-1800s, through more than 12,000 pieces of art and sculpture. One of the highlights of the garden is Rodin's Burghers of Calais .

The National Museum of African Art displays thousands of objects representing diverse artistic styles throughout the African continent, including sculptures, masks, costumes, household objects, and ceramics. All of these Smithsonian museums are among the many free things to do in Washington, D.C.

Address: 600 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.nga.gov

Near the Smithsonian museums, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum documents, studies, and interprets the history of the Holocaust with the dual purpose of memorializing the victims and helping the world to confront hatred and prevent genocide.

Permanent exhibits examine the rise of the Nazis and the Aryan ideology, the ghettos, key events such as Kristallnacht, the concentration camps, and the Nazi atrocities. An exhibit on Americans and the Holocaust examines US reaction to Nazis, the war, and genocide, while another features personal accounts by US soldiers and citizens who witnessed the evidence of Nazi atrocities.

The presentations draw on the enormous collections of more than 12,750 artifacts, 85,000 historical photographs, 9,000 oral history testimonies, as well as archival footage and records of survivors and their families. A visit to the museum is a sobering experience.

Address: 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://www.ushmm.org

An underground passage with historical exhibits leads from the Capitol Building to one of Washington's little-known places to visit, the Library of Congress. It's the world's largest library, modeled on the Opera House in Paris. You can visit portions on your own, but free tours disclose even more of its beautiful interior.

Displayed here are one of the three surviving complete Gutenberg Bibles, an earlier hand-printed Bible, Thomas Jefferson's draft of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson's personal library, and galleries filled with exhibits focusing on topics as varied as the musical careers of the Gershwin brothers and the work of editorial cartoonists and graphic artists.

Address: Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://www.aoc.gov/

One of the most popular things to do with children in Washington, the Museum of Natural History explores the natural world with permanent and changing exhibits to interest all ages. Favorite exhibits include the renowned Hope Diamond and the dazzling collection of gems and minerals around it, and Ocean Hall with its stunning underwater photography and replica of a 45-foot North Atlantic Right Whale.

The Hall of Human Origins follows human evolution over six million years in response to a changing world. Children will especially like the dinosaur exhibits and the interactive Discovery Room where they can touch and play with various artifacts.

Address: Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://www.si.edu/Museums/natural-history-museum

One of the most popular of the Smithsonian's many museums that line the mall, The National Museum of American History traces the political, cultural, scientific, and technological history of the U.S. since the Revolution. It displays important pieces of Americana, including Thomas Jefferson's desk, one of Edison's light bulbs, and the original flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words to The Star Spangled Banner .

But beyond these treasured national artifacts, exhibits also examine how people lived, what they ate, where they worked, how they played, what they wore, how they traveled, how they worshiped, and how they governed themselves.

Illustrating these multiple themes are artifacts that include everything from gowns, work by First Ladies, and Julia Child's complete kitchen to the Muppets and the actual ruby slippers Judy Garland wore in the film Wizard of Oz . With all the historical things to do in Washington D.C., you might think your family has had enough history. But this engaging museum houses some fascinating exhibits and artifacts of our collective past that will appeal to all ages.

Address: 14th Street NW at Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://americanhistory.si.edu

Focusing on themes of history, culture, and community, the newest of the Smithsonian museums explores changing definitions of American citizenship and equality, at the same time highlighting African American culture and that of the entire African diaspora.

Various themes are covered in changing exhibits, which center on themes such as African American food traditions and chefs, the influence of African American sports stars on the breakdown of segregation, and African craftsmanship.

Historic artifacts on display include a section of the original Woolworth lunch counter that was the scene of the Greensboro, N.C. sit-in in 1960, and the aircraft known as the "Spirit of Tuskegee." In World War II, it was used to train African American airmen in the Army Air Forces, men whose work helped trigger the desegregation of the military.

Address: National Mall at Constitution Avenue, N.W., between 12th and 14th Streets

Official site: https://nmaahc.si.edu/

The design for the domed white memorial to Thomas Jefferson, the third US president, is based on the Roman Pantheon, its low dome supported by 54 Ionic columns. Inside, appearing in a dramatic silhouette through the columns, is a 19-foot statue of a standing Jefferson, and around are engraved excerpts of the Declaration of Independence and other writings.

The monument stands alone at the far end of the Tidal Pool, which reflects the monument in its surface, and all around the edge of the water are cherry trees, a gift from Japan. These are one of Washington's greatest attractions when they bloom each spring, surrounding the basin with a cloud of pink flowers and celebrated with the Cherry Blossom Festival .

Along the Cherry Tree Walk around the Tidal Basin, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial reflects twelve years of American History through four outdoor rooms. Each one is devoted to one of FDR's terms of office as he guided the country through the Great Depression and World War II. Unveiled in 2011, the 30-foot-high Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is the newest along the Tidal Basin.

Address: 900 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, D.C.

Opened in 1971 and named in memory of President John F. Kennedy, the National Cultural Center overlooks the Potomac River in a state-of-the-art building designed by architect Edward Durell Stone. It is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, which hosts some of the world's greatest guest artists each year, and the Washington National Opera , one of the nation's leading opera companies.

Its three main stages and several smaller stages present over 2,200 performing arts shows and events each year, about 400 of which are free. These represent all types of music and theater, both classical and contemporary.

Joining the Los Angeles Music Center and Lincoln Center in New York as one of the three most important venues in the United States, the Kennedy Center is a major stop for visiting overseas opera, dance, and drama companies on tour.

Address: 2700 F Street NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.kennedy-center.org

The National Zoo is another part of the Smithsonian, where nearly 2,000 different animals, birds, and reptiles live in habitats replicating as closely as possible their natural environments. Of the several hundred species represented here, about a quarter are endangered. This is one of the world's best zoos, not only for the quality of the visitor experience, but for its leadership in areas of animal care and sustainability.

By far the most popular animals here are the giant pandas, part of a major initiative that began in 1972 with the arrival of Hsing Hsing from the People's Republic of China. Other zoo highlights are red pandas, Sumatran tigers, western lowland gorillas, Asian elephants, cheetahs, white-naped cranes, and North Island brown kiwis.

In the Amazonia exhibit, you can glimpse the colorful underwater life of the Amazon, where one of the world's largest freshwater fish swims beneath a living tropical forest.

Along with the cheetahs at the Cheetah Conservation Station, you can see Grevy's zebras, dama gazelles, vultures, and red river hogs, and at the highly popular Elephant Trails, you can see the multigenerational herd and learn about the elephants' life at the zoo and in the wild.

Check the day's schedule for feeding times, demonstrations, educational games, and talks. As you might expect, this is one of Washington's favorite places to visit for children.

Address: 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://nationalzoo.si.edu

The National Archives holds permanent records of the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Supreme Court, District of Columbia courts, and some federal agencies, as well as pre-World War I military service records for U.S. Army and Confederate veterans, and pre-1940 vessel and station logbooks for the U.S. Navy.

The records are open to researchers, and in the Rotunda, you can see the Declaration of Independence , Constitution , and Bill of Rights . Exhibition galleries feature a 1297 Magna Carta and a changing group of other historically significant documents. An exhibit, Rightfully Hers: American Women and the Vote, includes documents from the suffrage movement, and in other areas are interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages.

Address: 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://museum.archives.gov

The place for 007 wannabes, the museum covers the techniques, technology, history, and contemporary role of espionage. Many of the exhibits are interactive, and throughout the building are actual examples of real espionage equipment (including a poison dart umbrella designed by the KGB), from declassified hardware and captured equipment to movie props used in the James Bond series.

Photographs, audio-visual programs, and special effects combine to give a picture of strategies and methods behind secret espionage missions. The collections include historic spy artifacts from the Revolution and Civil War, along with a wealth of ingeniously concealed and disguised cameras and weapons, even the famous Enigma cipher machine that broke the Nazi codes in World War II.

The top floor is dedicated to real-life spies Aldrich Ames, Robert Hanson, and John Walker, detailing the actual methods and tools they used to spy on the United States, with videos describing how spies were caught. The lower floor moves from fact to fiction, filled with information and actual props used in James Bond movies.

Highlighting these is the Aston Martin DB5 that first appeared in the 1964 film Goldfinger , equipped with machine guns, oil jets, a dashboard radar screen, an ejector seat, tire slashers, a bulletproof shield, and a rotating license plate. The car actually inspired intelligence agencies to add similar features to their own vehicles.

Address: 700 L'Enfant Plaza, SW; Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.spymuseum.org

On a hillside overlooking the city from across the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery is filled with memorials to American history and the men and women who were part of it. Its best-known landmarks are the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , President John F. Kennedy's gravesite, and the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial depicting the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima in World War II. The Welcome Center has maps, information (including the locations of specific graves), and exhibits telling the story of Arlington National Cemetery and its monuments.

Among these are memorials to nurses, Iran Rescue Mission casualties, and various battles and groups, including one at the graves of Lt. Cmdr. Roger B. Chaffee and Lt. Col. Virgil I. "Gus" Grissom, who were killed in a fire aboard their Apollo spacecraft. Another commemorates the seven Challenger astronauts.

In a solemn and impressive ceremony, the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is changed every hour on the hour October 1 to March 31, and every half hour from April 1 through September 30. Although the cemetery is not right in the city, both the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's Metrorail system and Metrobus have stops close to the gate.

Official site: https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil

The English-style, Neo-Gothic National Cathedral, one of the world's largest cathedrals, took 83 years to build, from 1907 to 1990. It follows the Gothic building style and techniques, with flying buttresses and solid masonry construction of Indiana limestone. Throughout the cathedral are artistic details to see, from its stained-glass windows to the hand-embroidered kneelers that commemorate war heroes and historic events.

Special tours, reserved in advance, explore hidden parts of the building and its art; families should ask for the brochure Explore the Cathedral with Children for a scavenger hunt to find wrought-iron animals, tiny carvings, and gargoyles. Be sure to look for the gargoyle of Darth Vader high up on the northwest tower.

The cathedral is the burial place of President Woodrow Wilson and Helen Keller, and state funerals for Presidents Eisenhower, Reagan, and Ford took place here. The top of the 300-foot central tower is the highest point in Washington.

The Bishop's Garden, on the south side of the cathedral, includes plants found in medieval gardens, plants mentioned in the Bible, and others native to the area, along with a fish pond. The 59-acre Cathedral Close, designed by the eminent landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr in the early 20th century, is an urban oasis modeled on the walled grounds of medieval cathedrals.

Carillon recitals are held each Saturday at 12:30pm, and the peal bells are rung on Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9pm and after Sunday services. On Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:30pm, a cathedral organist discusses the Great Organ here, followed by a mini-recital.

Address: Massachusetts & Wisconsin Avenues NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.cathedral.org

The neighborhood from 27th to 37th Streets, between Rock Creek Park and K Street NW, is the city's oldest, with origins in the early 1700s, before Washington itself. Georgetown University , the nation's oldest Roman Catholic and Jesuit College, is located here.

Today, Georgetown's tidy streets of historic homes and its boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, and small museums make it a popular respite from lines at the mall attractions. The C&O Canal , the 184-mile waterway paralleling the Potomac River, begins here, and its towpath is a favorite place for walking and cycling.

Dumbarton Oaks is a 16-acre estate with formal gardens and a valuable Byzantine and Christian art collection. Federal period Dumbarton House features Federal-style furniture, paintings, textiles, silver, and ceramics, and is home to one of five original known copies of the Articles of Confederation.

Tudor Place is an early 19th-century mansion built by Martha Washington's granddaughter, Martha Custis Peter, and her husband. Items from George and Martha Washington's Mount Vernon home are shown here, and the Federal-period gardens contain plants and trees from the early 19th century. The Kreeger Museum displays a wide collection of art from the 1850s to the 1970s including paintings by Monet, Renoir, Sisley, Chagall, Gauguin, and Picasso.

If you're looking for places to eat in Washington or things to do at night, this is one of the places to visit. The neighborhood is filled with restaurants and cafes, along with live music venues.

Sharing the historic Old Patent Office Building with the National Portrait Gallery, the Smithsonian American Art Museum holds one of the world's largest and most inclusive collections of American art, representing more than 7,000 artists from the colonial era to the present.

The collections record the wonder of artists capturing the beauty of American landscapes as the nation expanded westward, and the changing face of American cities and towns. Special collections represent works by more than 200 African American artists, collections of Latinex works, an outstanding array of contemporary American craft and folk arts.

The National Portrait Gallery focuses on famous Americans, from the time of the first colonies to present day leaders and important public figures, including the only complete collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House.

Address: 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, D.C.

Official sites:

• https://americanart.si.edu/art
• https://npg.si.edu/

At the foot of Capitol Hill, the U.S. Botanic Garden is an oasis of tropical gardens in the center of the city. Surrounded by outdoor gardens, the huge glasshouse is the hub of a museum of living plants. Permanent interior exhibits create environments for plants at home everywhere from the desert to rainforests, while outside is a showcase of plants that thrive in the Middle Atlantic states.

The greenhouse contains two courtyard gardens and 10 garden rooms, and the outside displays include a pollinator garden, rose garden, kitchen garden, and water garden. There's always something in bloom, and benches in the vast conservatory invite a stop to enjoy the fragrances and the lush green surroundings.

Address: 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://www.usbg.gov/

D.C.'s U Street Corridor is one of the city's top historic neighborhoods and served as the epicenter of Black culture in America between 1862 and 1948. Designated a historic district in 1998, this neighborhood is filled with colorful buildings housing plenty of shops, restaurants, and theaters.

It is anchored by 14 th Street on its west side and the recently renovated Howard Theatre on its east end at the edge of the Shaw neighborhood. Constructed in 1910, this was the center of Black Broadway for the first half of the 20 th Century. It fell into decline but underwent a magnificent renovation and reopened a decade ago.

Duke Ellington was born in this neighborhood and a sculpture honoring the famed jazz musician can be seen at the intersection of Florida Ave and T Street. Also check out a concert at Lincoln Theatre , built in 1922, where Ellington and other jazz greats like Billie Holiday, Nat King, Cole, and Louis Armstrong all used to play.

U Street is known for its delicious food scene. Here you'll find the acclaimed Ben's Chili Bowl , which has served everyone from Anthony Bourdain to Barack Obama. Its restaurants span the globe, however. If you are craving authentic Ethiopian fare, head to "Little Ethiopia" on the east end of U Street.

With its second phase only completed in 2002, The Wharf is D.C.'s hottest new waterfront neighborhood, home to more than 80 restaurants and shops, an iconic fish market, four hotels, and a popular live music venue. Running along the Potomac River for one mile, the neighborhood was created as part of a larger development plan for what had been a neglected portion of the SW quadrant.

Just about a 10-minute walk from the National Mall, The Wharf's waterfront location provides a totally different vibe than the memorial and museum area. The Municipal Fish Market is the country's oldest continuously operating open-air fish market, originally opened in 1805. Until the redevelopment of The Wharf, it wasn't really on the tourist map anymore. Today it is buzzing with hungry travelers and locals alike, who come here to dine al fresco on fresh fish.

If you want to get out on the Potomac River yourself, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore. There are also seasonal water taxis running from The Wharf to Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, across the river. Alexandria is known for its stately 18 th - and 19th-century buildings and brick streets. It's a great place to wander around for an afternoon. Water taxis also run to Georgetown.

Come evening, book a luxe riverboat dinner cruise on Potomac. These offer a wonderful way to relax after an action-packed day, and river sunsets can be phenomenal.

Official site: https://www.wharfdc.com/

Sightseeing by Day:

• Washington, D.C. has so many famous sites that it's difficult to keep track of all there is to see and do. One of the best ways to explore this city is on a classic Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour , seeing the sites from an open-top red bus and getting on and off wherever you choose.

Sightseeing by Night:

• At night, Washington is transformed as the floodlights are beamed up the monuments, giving them a completely different look from their daytime appearance. The Washington, D.C. Monuments by Moonlight Night Trolley Tour is a 2.5- hour guided tour that provides an easy way to see the city at night.

Sightseeing by Bicycle:

• Active travelers will enjoy the Washington D.C. Monuments Bike Tour to visit the Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial on a three-hour ride. Hybrid bikes and the relatively level terrain make this suitable even for those who are not avid cyclists. As many places to visit have security checkpoints and do not allow backpacks, it is wise to carry as little as possible while touring.

Weather wise, the best time of year to travel to Washington, D.C. is between the months of March and May and September to November . You'll hit cherry blossom season (usually from late March to early April), ogle spectacular fall foliage (especially in October through November), and enjoy a long stretch of great weather free from frigid and sweltering temps.

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Places to Visit Close to Washington: If you have time to explore outside the city, there are many easy Day Trips from Washington, D.C ., and our page on Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from Washington D.C. can give you plenty of ideas for longer excursions.

Exploring Maryland : There are a number of tourist attractions in Maryland , including those in historic Annapolis and Baltimore with its lively harbor area. The state is also famous for its beaches and oceanfront resorts, many of which are within easy weekend reach from Washington. You can learn more about these on our page Top-Rated Resorts in Maryland.

Discovering Virginia : The District of Columbia lies between two states, and to its south, you can visit attractions in Virginia , including those in the capital city of Richmond . Or you could spend a weekend immersed in colonial history with the help of our page Top Tourist Attractions in Williamsburg & Easy Day Trips .

More on District of Columbia

37 Non-Touristy Things To Do in Washington DC Besides Museums and Monuments

If you are looking for things to do in Washington, DC, images of monuments, museums, and government buildings probably come to mind.

But what you may not realize as a visitor is that there is SO. MUCH. MORE. to this city than meets the eye.

Cute neighborhoods, obscurely-themed pop-up bars, and underground art exhibits are all part of the mix. Intrigued yet? I hope so!

To help you plan your trip to Washington, DC, I’ve written this guide, packed with 37 different non-touristy things to do in DC that aren’t museums, monuments, or memorials. This list spans from art installations, embassy parties, outdoors activities and restaurants. I should know, I used to live in DC after all. 

Take your pick to avoid the tourist crowds in DC!

Non-Touristy Things to Do in Washington, DC Besides Museums and Monuments

Check out some local art at culture house dc (formerly blind whino).

Hidden away from all the tourists in the streets of Southwest DC is a formerly abandoned church that fell into a vat of neon pixie dust, and opened its doors to the art community.

Now known as Culture House DC (Formerly Blind Whino), this construction has become an iconic part of DC’s culture, hosting live talks and shows, and exhibits from local artists. There’s also work space for artists to come and learn from each other.

It’s a crucible of creativity housed in what used to be the Friendship Baptist Church that was built in 1886. 

The events and exhibition space is spread out over 15,000 square feet and is used to house an ever-changing rotation of exhibitions – currently “The Body and Infinite Excess by Stephen Benedicto who explores his theme through paintings, sculptures, photography and installation. 

Opening hours differ from exhibition to exhibition. Check out their website for upcoming events and times.

Visit The Dupont Underground

Dupont Underground is another art space, located near Dupont Circle, that welcomes local artist exhibitions and is a key part of the city’s cultural scene. 

It’s literally an underground tunnel created from repurposed urban infrastructural space (a long-abandoned streetcar station) that hosts art exhibitions and live events. These events include the bi-weekly (and deliciously raucous) Drag Underground, which features some of D.C’s best drag queens. If you are looking for fun things to do in DC for adults, look no further.

From street art to photography, light shows to paintings, anything goes here, and most of the exhibits are absolutely fascinating. This is one of the best undiscovered gems in the city. 

For their current exhibit offerings, check their website .

See DC’s Street Art Hotspots

All around Washington DC, you can find awesome, colorful, sometimes politically-infused street art. From watermelon houses to psychedelic murals, this city has a lot of street art to offer.

Some, like Adams Morgan’s Madam’s Organ Mural have been around so long they’ve become local icons (that mural was completed in 1997 and has been drawing in admirers ever since). The same can be said of Mural Un Pueblo Sin Murales, a work that was created in 1977 by Felipe Martinez, Carlos Salozar, Carlos Arrien, and Juan Pineda on Adams Mill Road. 

There are much newer pieces to explore too. Blagden Alley in particular, thrives with pieces from local artists including Lisa Marie Thalhammer and Cita Sadeli Chelove.

The best way to find street art in DC is simply to wander through the streets. But, if you need some guidance, you can use this map to help.

Run in a Scenic Road Race

Running is a huge activity in Washington DC, and you can find people running almost all hours of the day on the city’s sidewalks. 

If you’re a runner yourself, you can get to know the city by joining a road race! Races in DC (and in the DC area) happen very regularly, so you can almost always find one if you really want to.

Some of the most popular races are the Army 10 Miler , the Marine Corps Marathon , the Rock and Roll Marathon and Half Marathon , and the Cherry Blossom 10 Miler . Even if you don’t like running, it’s worth heading to the races to spectate if your visit happens to coincide with one of them!

Head to a Show or Concert

Washington DC’s arts scene is always popping off with a diverse and vibrant range of experiences that cater to pretty much every taste. 

Because Washington DC is so centrally located, many artists (big and small) that are making the rounds in the US stop here. As a result, you can see basically any artist you love at some point in this city.

Venues range from giant stadiums, like the Capital One Arena  or the 9:30 Club, to smaller, more intimate spaces like Black Cat and U Street Music Hall .  

If fine arts is more your thing, check out the listings for touring Broadway plays, National Symphony concerts, or ballet shows. Many of these take place at the iconic Kennedy Center , right on the river. Others are hosted around the city at various venues.

Explore the City By Night

One of the most beautiful times of day to see Washington, DC is at night, when the monuments are all lit up amidst the night sky.

I know, I know, I promised there wouldn’t be any monuments on this list, but seeing the monuments via the city’s main thoroughfares is a different thing altogether, and you can avoid the hoards of tourists by going at this time.

One of my favorite places to visit at night is the area near the Washington Monument – here, you can see the monument itself as well as the WWII Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Capitol building all lit up.

There’s a really awesome night bike tour of DC you can take to see some of the city’s most beautiful areas in the most tranquil time of day.

Party it Up at an Embassy

Yes, really!

Occasionally,  DC’s embassies from a variety of countries will open their doors to the public for a night of cocktails and events. For example, Mexico’s embassy did a Day of the Dead celebration in November of last year to celebrate this important holiday in their culture.

Some of these events are even free to the public. This is a great way to see DC and avoid the tourists.

Typically you have to buy a ticket in advance for these parties, but it depends on the event. 

If you want to know more about the embassy and cultural events going on here, check out this list.

Visit the National Harbor

DC doesn’t really have a Coney Island, but the closest thing is our National Harbor . Home to different things and sights such as casinos, fantastic dining options, and bustling walking areas, the National Harbor is a great place to spend an evening.

One of the most well-known sights on the National Harbor is the ferris wheel, also known as the Capital Wheel.

Riding the wheel boasts some views of the Potomac River and is a fun way to spend a little while when you’re at the National Harbor.

You can learn more about pricing and tickets on the Capital Wheel website .

Admire The Cherry Blossoms Around The Tidal Basin

In early April, one of DC’s most iconic sights is the cherry blossoms , whose pastel pink blossoms can be found across the city. However, the most famous place to view these gorgeous blooms is at the Tidal Basin.

Grab a jacket and take a walk, admiring how the pink colors reflect off the water. Or, if you’re feeling ambitious, enter the lottery for the Cherry Blossoms 10 miler and go for a run through these beautiful, flowered streets. It is an excellent complement to a museum day in late March/early April.

Hit Up Jazz in The Garden

In the summer, the National Gallery of Art’s sculpture garden opens its gates for live jazz music and pitchers of sangria .

On Fridays from June to August, you can see DC’s young professionals flocking there in high numbers to lay down picnic blankets and snack on wine and cheese, catching up about their busy weeks and enjoying the sometimes quaint, but always quality jazz music that fills the air.

When I first moved to DC, this was one of the first events I ever went to! It’s so fun to sit back and unwind with friends amidst the towering sculptures in the garden.

Or Go Ice Skating in That Same Garden

In the winter, the sculpture garden’s fountain area turns into an ice skating rink! For a small fee, you can rent skates and go ice skating there.

Families, hockey players, and young professionals alike swirl around the rink during the day. It’s definitely a fun way to spend some time outdoors in the chill of the winter.

Hop on a Boat Ride in Georgetown

Summertime is the perfect time to go boating, and Georgetown offers plenty of options. From boozy boats to elegant dinner cruises by the DC skyline, or simple tourist water taxis, there’s something for every kind of visitor here. There are many tour companies that offer boat tours in DC.

Head to The Downtown Holiday Market

During the holiday season, DC steals some of the traditional Christmas market flair from Europe and brings it to its own streets.

What results is rows of street stalls selling artisan items, baked goods, condiments, and more. Of course, along with any holiday market, there are traditional drinks like mulled wine, as well as non-alcoholic delights like hot chocolate.

In the wintertime, bundle up and head to the Downtown Holiday Market to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season.

Explore The Historic Fish Market

The fish market in DC is a strange attraction to see. Filled with a handful of floating stalls on the waterfront, it looks like it hasn’t changed much in a while, boasting decades-old facades and peeling paint. But the charm of the fish market is just how unpretentious it feels – vendors are there to sell fish, and sell fish alone.

Established in 1805 – it’s actually the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the US!

Each vendor has ice boxes showcasing their catches of the day, and lines here often get very long to buy the cream of the crop. In addition to buying several varieties of fish and shellfish here, there are also stalls that sell meals like gumbo, fried shrimp, etc.

For seafood lovers, this is a unique place in DC that’s definitely worth a visit, if even just to see where the magic happens.

The market is open from 8am to 8pm.

Wander Through a Farmer’s Market

Except for the winter time, there are farmer’s markets all over the city of Washington DC. Two of the largest ones are Dupont Circle and Columbia Heights, but there are many others you can peruse as well.

Farmer’s markets offer fresh produce, artisan food items, prepared food, live music, and often, the best part…FREE SAMPLES. My favorite farmer’s market is the Dupont Circle market, because it spans a few blocks and seemingly has everything. These are a great place to people-watch, too!

Peruse The Stalls at Union Market

Located in the up-and-coming NoMa neighborhood, Union Market is a newer warehouse-like establishment featuring many indoor food vendors and boutique shops.

This is definitely the most upscale of the markets here, designed to be a place for young professionals and families alike to hang out, sip on a glass of wine, and eat finger foods while catching up with friends.

Or Wander Through the Streets of Eastern Market

Eastern Market is a neighborhood in DC, but it’s also an interesting weekend street market that I didn’t group into the “farmer’s market” category because it is so unique.

During the weekend, street stalls here sell a variety of oddities, from maps to clothing to soaps and more. The weekend flea market is my absolute favourite as it’s a mishmash of old treasures and small, made in DC businesses selling local produce. 

On top of that, there’s a market building that houses meat items, fresh local vegetables, and other foods.

In addition, there are several coffee shops and brunch spots lining the streets, opening their doors to hungry market-goers who need some refreshments. It’s worth spending a whole morning here just wandering around and checking out what’s for sale.

Duck into The Charming Blagden Alley

I mentioned Blagden Alley in the street art entry but it’s such a cool spot that it deserves an entry of its own. 

Tucked behind some unassuming buildings in Shaw is a peculiar alleyway that doesn’t look like much from the street. However, this alley houses a coffee shop and a few restaurants and bars, as well as a street mosaic and strange cobblestone streets. Then there’s the street art – bold and wonderful – a mini-open air art gallery for all to see. 

It’s one of those weird things I would have never known about if a friend of mine hadn’t taken me there and shown it to me. If you’re hanging out in the Shaw area, Blagden Alley is definitely a cool thing to see.

Wander Around The Wharf

One of DC’s newer constructions is a waterfront area in Southwest DC, near Navy Yard, called The Wharf.

Accessible from the metro, this waterfront boasts shops, restaurants, and a brand new performance venue called the Anthem. There are also lots of bars in this up-and-coming area, perfect for a night on the town with friends.

Visit A Historic Home

OK, OK, I know these are ~ kind of ~ museums, but they never get mentioned anywhere in museum posts, so I thought I’d include them here.  Historic homes are an often neglected attraction in Washington. Because it has been a city critical to the formation of the United States, DC has a lot of historic old homes you can tour.

In Georgetown, the Old Stone House is the oldest house in DC and the only pre-Revolutionary colonial building left in the city. Built in 1765 – more than 85% of the house still dates back to the 18th-century original. Crazy right? There are guided tours throughout the day.

Or, head to the Heurich House, which is a historic home that boasts some odd decor and architecture inside its four walls. Also known as the Brewmaster’s Castle, it was built in the 1890s for German brewer Christian Heurich and showcases many technological advancements at the time including (wait for it…) electric lighting. 

You can tour the museum from Thursday to Saturday with pre-registration or just hang out in the lovely Biergarten which is open from Wednesday to Saturday. 

For a list of historic homes in DC, check out this site.

People Watch at the National Mall

The National Mall is full of museums and monuments, but some of the prime viewing here is of the people around you. Grab a bench, pick up a bag of popcorn and watch the world go by – it can often lead to some pretty funny or interesting insights about the humans of DC.

Food and Drink

Check out the latest pop-up bars.

Remember the Game of Thrones bar? Or the Cherry Blossom bar? DC is home to some weird and wonderful pop up bars all over the city that rotate throughout the year. One minute, it’s a terrifying Halloween-themed bar, the next, it’s Christmas!

The most well-known pop up bar is located in the neighborhood of Shaw, and it’s worth going there any time of year to see what the new theme is. 

It’s coming up to Christmas now – my current favourites include Miracle at Death Punch Bar, Ciel Chalet at Ciel Social Club, Krampus at Side Door and Sippin’ Santa at Archipelago – catch ‘em quick before they’re gone. 

Think of it as a different adventure every couple of weeks!

Hit Up The Hottest Happy Hours

DC young professionals LOVE happy hour. For many of us (myself included) happy hour is the new dinner. Typically occurring from 4-7 PM, people flock to some of the best bars in Washington, DC for discounted food, drink, and social time.

There are happy hours all over the city, but some of the most popular areas to go are Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan, 14th Street, U Street, Shaw, and Gallery Place.

Visit a Speakeasy

Hidden behind closed doors of seemingly abandoned buildings lie a set of super unique underground bars called speakeasies. Much like the Prohibition era, these bars are difficult to find, but when you stumble upon a good one, it’s a strangely amazing experience.

My favorite speakeasy in DC is called The Gibson – it’s in the U Street area, but I’ll leave it up to you to find its exact location. There are many other speakeasies in DC – for a complete list, visit this site .

Wine and Dine at a Historic Institution

Martin’s Tavern…Old Ebbitt Grill…what do they have in common? They’re all historic dining institutions in DC, where the likes of US presidents would hang out and discuss important political matters.

When you step inside one of these fascinating places, you step into a world of history and grandeur, with wood-paneled bars and tables, and furnishings that look like they’ve been around a century. If you go to Martin’s Tavern in Georgetown, you can even request to sit at the table where JFK and Jackie got engaged.

While Away The Afternoon at a Brewery

Breweries and beer gardens are extremely popular hangouts in Washington DC, especially in the summer months. 

Wunder Garten in NoMa is a standout, offering a mix of local brews, German and Austrian beers and food on its large patio. 

The Red Bear Brewing Co is a cool 100% gay-owned brewery with excellent craft beers, while if you love sour beers, you need to head to Right Proper Brewing Co which specialises in the very same. 

Many allow you to bring your own food, sit back with friends, and sip on some local brews in open air. 

Go To One of DC’s Michelin Starred Delights

If you prefer high-class restaurants, the fine dining options in DC are competitive with most major cities in the world. Ranging in type from new American fare to sushi, there’s plenty of variety in the Michelin-star world of DC.

Some of the hottest restaurants on the Michelin list are Plume, Rose’s Luxury, Blue Duck Tavern, and Pineapple & Pearls.

For a complete list of the 2023 Michelin star rankings, check out this post.

Sit back at a Locally-Owned Coffee Shop (or a Teahouse!)

DC’s coffee scene is fabulous, and this is coming from someone who spends a LOT of time in coffee shops working on…ahem…this site.

You can head to a city favorite like Compass, Peregrine, or La Colombe, or go to a one-off tea shop like Calabash in Shaw.

If you don’t want to decide between your coffee brews and your cocktails, check out Tryst in Adams Morgan, which serves coffee, tea, AND cocktails behind their bar. Why choose if you can have both?

Go Out For a Night Out on The Town

While it’s not Las Vegas, the nightlife scene in DC can be super fun, if you know where to go. Some of the hotspots for night time activity include Adams Morgan and U Street, but there are bars all over the city, from Navy Yard to Columbia Heights.

Some restaurants even turn into clubs at night – the one that always makes me laugh is the club on the third floor of a quaint Russian restaurant, Mari Vanna, in downtown DC.

Sample International Cuisine

Because of the presence of so many embassies and international organizations, DC hosts incredibly diverse and delicious cuisine.

You can find traditional foods ranging from Japanese to Swiss to Senegalese to Georgian, or you can sample fusion foods like Peruvian-Chinese.

One of my favorite fusion restaurants is called Compass Rose, which offers tapas-style shared plates from all over the word, including more obscure places like Georgia and Central Asia.

Outdoors Activities in Washington D.C

Meander through the national arboretum.

If you’re looking for a unique outdoor experience, head to the National Arboretum .

This large park is a little bit removed from the bustle of downtown, and for good reason – it houses beautiful old columns form the capital, lovely wildflowers, and winding walking paths for you and your dog (or your imaginary dog…it’s cool, I have one too).

Go To A Dog Park

If there’s one thing about DC that’s true all the time, it’s that it’s a dog city. Everyone and their mother seems to own a dog. Even if you don’t have a dog, you can head to a dog park and watch the dogs sprinting around, barking at each other, and having fun.

It’s always a lift in spirits to be around pups, and even more when they’re running freely in the open air.

Paddle Through the City on the Potomac River

Sometimes people forget that the Potomac River runs right through some of the city’s most spectacular sights, and that you can see a completely different perspective of the US capital from the water.

If you love being outdoors, or are looking for a unique, romantic thing to do in the city, go kayaking in DC and explore the city from the water. You can rent a kayak! Exploring the city from the water will give you a unique perspective that not many visitors get to see.

Join a Drum Circle at Meridian Hill Park

In my opinion, this is one of the wackiest things to do in DC. On Sundays at 3 PM, there’s a large, ongoing drum circle at Meridian Hill Park.

Anyone can join or watch the drum circle, and it’s fascinating to see people just drumming along with complete strangers, nodding their heads with grins on their faces.

You might think it sounds like a bunch of drums beating out of rhythm, but it actually stays pretty in sync. This is definitely something to experience if you’re looking for a unique thing to do in DC.

Go For a Walk in Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park is one of DC’s outdoor gems. With 1,700+ acres of forested park area in the middle of Washington DC, it’s perfect for the outdoor enthusiast or people who enjoy exploring urban green spaces.

There are trails here that go on for miles and miles, and it’s worth spending a whole day here if you enjoy fresh air and walking through nature to the chaos of the city.

Or Do Some Hiking at Great Falls

If you have a car (or access to one), you can’t miss Great Falls. Although it’s located a little bit out of the city on the Virginia-Maryland border, I’ve included it on this list because it is an absolutely spectacular sight.

Here, the Potomac cascades and crashes over sharp rocks in a canyon-like area, causing a mesmerizing set of waterfalls. It’s truly like being in another world there. There are several miles of hiking trails here, ranging from flat, easy hikes to tricky rock scrambles. You can take your pick.

Explore the City on Wheels

There’s really no better way to get around Washington DC than by bike. Because it’s a fairly small city, it’s easy to get around from place to place on a bike. You can get to the main landmarks while still being able to see some interesting sights along the way.

DC boasts a popular bike tour that takes you through some of the city’s iconic areas and through charming neighborhoods, too.

If you’re on a budget, companies like Capital Bikeshare offer rental bikes by the hour for reasonable prices – you grab one and hit the road to explore this weird and wonderful city at your own pace.

Read More Washington DC Guides 

• A Weekend in Washington DC: Step-by-Step Itinerary
• Brilliant Day Trips from Washington D.C
• Where to Stay in Washington DC
• How to See the Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC 
• The Ultimate USA Bucket List

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I’m Kay. I’m originally from small town Virginia, but have moved all around the East Coast and the United States for basically my entire life. I spent my childhood days blissfully wandering through the Blue Ridge Mountains, rolling in leaves, playing in creeks…you know, the usual overly adventurous 5-year-old stuff.

But those early years spent outside gave me a real problem: I’m now an adventure addict. Basically, if I’m not at my computer banging out articles or photos, I’m probably out hiking, biking, or camping somewhere beautiful.

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Where you can see northern lights Sunday night from another solar storm

Sunday night could offer another opportunity to see the northern lights unusually far south, though less than earlier predicted

If you missed the recent auroras over the past two days, you may have another chance. The sun will continue to send more activity to Earth on Sunday night and early this week.

Fast eruptions from the sun are expected to slam into Earth on Sunday night and Monday morning, triggering another round of geomagnetic storms, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Sunday is predicted to offer the best chance for aurora-chasing before this round of solar activity diminishes.

After predicting geomagnetic storms of level G4 or G5 — the most intense rating — on Sunday morning, NOAA downgraded the forecast to G3, meaning less likelihood for a repeat of Friday night , when storms brought aurora sightings down to Florida and Mexico.

Activity is expected to wane by the pre-dawn hours of Monday, although storm levels are still predicted to reach moderate (G2) to strong (G3). Auroras could be spotted as far south as Iowa and Washington state with the naked eye, but cameras could capture the dancing lights farther south.

By Tuesday morning, NOAA forecasts that geomagnetic storm activity will diminish to minor levels (G1). During a minor storm, only higher latitudes such as northern Michigan or Maine typically see auroras.

Will there be clouds in my area?

In the Northeast, people may struggle to see the aurora through clouds on Sunday night, although some breaks are possible toward Monday morning. Unfortunately, clouds will blanket much of the area Monday night to Tuesday morning.

In the Mid-Atlantic, the skies will be mostly clear from Sunday night into Monday, providing promising views from West Virginia to South Carolina. Heavy cloud cover moves in over the region on Monday night into Tuesday morning.

The southern United States (from Georgia to western Texas) will be largely covered in clouds from late Sunday night to Tuesday morning.

The West Coast and northern Plains should have primarily clear skies from Sunday night to Tuesday morning.

If your region has a cloudy forecast over the next few days, don’t necessarily fret. Sometimes breaks emerge in the cloud canopy. And while clouds will make it harder to see the northern lights, sometimes they also make for interesting photos .

Will you be able to see the northern lights around D.C.?

It is unlikely that auroras will be visible Sunday night in the D.C. region, according to NOAA’s 7:15 p.m. update.

Washingtonians had a brief window during which to see auroras early Saturday morning . But there were too many clouds and the geomagnetic storm wasn’t quite strong enough for northern lights to be seen Saturday night into Sunday morning — although auroras were reported in Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains at 10:30 p.m. and about 12:30 a.m., as well as in the mountains to the west.

You will improve your chances of seeing the aurora borealis significantly by finding an observing location away from city lights (this advice applies to any population center). Also, the lights — if they appear — may be rather faint and only visible through your camera lens, which is more sensitive to light than your eyes. Look to the north to try to find them.

Where has the aurora already been seen this weekend?

The geomagnetic activity over the past few days has been one for the books, producing once-in-a-lifetime or once-in-a-generation aurora displays.

The weekend began strong with an extreme (G5) storm on Friday into Saturday morning. One space weather physicist collected aurora observations on X from every state in the United States, and from much of the Northern Hemisphere — including rare places like Italy, Austria, London, Mexico and India. Auroras were even spotted in tropical locations, including Puerto Rico and the Bahamas.

In the Southern Hemisphere, the lights — known as the aurora australis — were photographed in Chile , Argentina , New Zealand and Australia.

Although activity decreased Saturday night, storm levels still briefly reached into strong (G3) to severe (G4) levels. At its peak, people were able to snap aurora pictures in the mountains of Virginia.

Were any satellite or power grid operations affected?

Intense geomagnetic storms can disrupt satellite, GPS and power grid operations. After Friday’s storm, NOAA received reports of issues on some power grids and high-frequency radio and GPS communications.

The last time a G5 storm hit was in 2003. That one also brought widespread auroras and some power interruptions in certain regions of the globe.

Why has there been so much auroral activity recently?

The slew of auroral activity stems from a particularly bustling area on the sun known as active region 3664. The region — measuring about 17 times the diameter of Earth — is marked with a cluster of dark splotches, known as sunspots. Sunspots are areas on the sun’s surface where its magnetic field is much higher than anywhere else on the sun. These magnetically complex regions are often the source of large, explosive bursts on the sun.

So cool. On Saturday morning, CWG reader David Abbou took this video of the giant sunspot facing Earth (which you can see with solar eclipse glasses) and which has been responsible for the solar storms and northern lights. As he was recording, an airplane photobombed the shot! pic.twitter.com/N52dCzwjn5 — Capital Weather Gang (@capitalweather) May 12, 2024

Last week, the sunspot group launched multiple eruptions from its surface — called coronal mass ejections — toward Earth. Coronal mass ejections are large clouds of solar energy and magnetized plasma that can temporarily disturb Earth’s magnetosphere, if aimed correctly. Some solar particles travel along Earth’s magnetic field into our upper atmosphere, exciting molecules and releasing photons of light, or the aurora.

Geomagnetic activity from this sunspot group will last until around Tuesday, then the sunspot group will rotate away from Earth’s view. If it rotates all the way around the sun and faces back to Earth in several weeks, it could send additional activity our way. However, most sunspot groups weaken on second appearance.

NOAA scientists continually monitor the sun and are tracking any potential activity from other sunspot groups.

Jason Samenow contributed to this report.

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The Picture Show

Photos: see the northern lights from rare solar storm.

Geoff Brumfiel

Christchurch, New Zealand: People look at the Aurora Australis, also known as the Southern Lights, in Rolleston on May 11, 2024. Sanka Vidanagama/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

The largest geomagnetic storm in nearly two decades is hitting Earth's atmosphere . It's producing a beautiful glow in the sky all over the world.

A sunspot has sent a stream of charged particles towards Earth.

As those particles hit the Earth's atmosphere they will be heated and start glowing producing beautiful aurora.

South looks north, as solar storm brings auroras

Lisa Upton is with the Southwest Research Institute. Social media is already filling with photos from places like Finland, Russia, Germany and New Zealand, which catches the same effect in the southern hemisphere. It's not clear how far down in the U.S. the aurora will spread, but Upton is keeping an eye out in Colorado.

Space weather forecasters expect the solar storm to peak overnight, but it will last throughout the weekend.

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024. Robert F. Bukaty/AP hide caption

Brunswick, Maine: The northern lights flare in the sky over a farmhouse, late Friday, May 10, 2024.

Estacada, Ore.: In this image taken with a long exposure, cars pass by as people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024, in Estacada, Ore. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

Lake Berryessa, Calif.: The blinking lights of a plane streak through the aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, which is visible on May 11, 2024. Carlos Avila Gonzalez/San Francisco Chronicle/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: People stop along a country road near London, Ontario to watch the Northern lights or aurora borealis during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky. Patrick Pleul/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Brandenburg, Germany: Light green and slightly reddish auroras glow in the night sky.

Whitley Bay, England: People visit St Mary's lighthouse in Whitley Bay to see the aurora borealis, commonly known as the northern lights. Ian Forsyth/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley. Peter Byrne/PA Images/Getty Images hide caption

Crosby Beach, Liverpool, England: The aurora borealis, also known as the northern lights, glow on the horizon at Another Place by Anthony Gormley.

Saxony-Anhalt, Schierke, Germany: Northern lights can be seen from the Brocken. The natural spectacle is particularly intense on Saturday night. Matthias Bein/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Rochester, N.Y: Northern Lights light up the sky on May 11, 2024. Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Hesse, Germany: Northern lights appear in the night sky over the Pferdskopf near Treisberg in the Hochtaunus district of Hesse. Lando Hass/dpa/picture alliance/Getty Images hide caption

Mount Mitchell, N.C.: Unusual sun activity created a G5 Geostorm on Earth sparks northern lights on May 10, 2024. Peter Zay/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

London, Ontario: Northern lights or aurora borealis illuminate the night sky near London, Ontario, during a geomagnetic storm on May 10, 2024. Geoff Robins/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Debrad, Slovakia: Northern lights illuminate the sky May 11, 2024. Robert Nemeti/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Eindhoven, Ukraine: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Eindhoven, Ukraine, May 10, 2024. Nikos Oikonomou/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Liseleje, Denmark: Northern lights illuminate the sky in Liseleje, Denmark on May 11, 2024. Mohamed El-Shemy/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Markville, Minnesota: The northern lights glow in the sky over St. Croix State Forest late Friday, May 10, 2024. Mark Vancleave/AP hide caption

Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine: Northern lights light up the sky May 11, 2024. Diego Herrera Carcedo/Anadolu/Getty Images hide caption

Skidmore, Missouri: Old tombstones stand against the northern lights at a cemetery early Saturday, May 11, 2024. Charlie Riedel/AP hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024. Josh Edelson/AFP/Getty Images hide caption

Middletown, California: Northern lights illuminate the night sky over a camper's tent north of San Francisco on May 11, 2024.

Estacada, Oregon: In this image taken with a long exposure, people look at the night sky towards the northern lights, or Aurora Borealis, on Friday, May 10, 2024. Jenny Kane/AP hide caption

• northern lights
• geomagnetic storms
• aurora bourealis

Geomagnetic storm hurtles into Earth's atmosphere, brings danger of power grid interference

Read the latest on the northern lights this weekend: Saturday's forecast says parts of U.S. could see auroras .

A geomagnetic storm that's now hurtling into the Earth has been classified as "extreme," or a G5 storm, the highest level, the Space Weather Prediction Center said Friday evening. It's the first G5 storm to hit our planet since 2003.

Due to the extreme storm, power grid irregularities are possible, along with potential impacts to HF/VHF/UHF communications, GPS, satellite navigation, and other technologies, the prediction center said. Critical infrastructure operators have been notified.

The last extreme (G5) event occurred in October 2003, which resulted in power outages in Sweden and damaged transformers in South Africa.

See the amazing photos: The northern lights were on full display across US, Europe on Friday

Aurora borealis might be seen over much of the U.S.

Skywatchers get ready: Thanks to the unusually strong solar activity, the aurora borealis should be coming to the skies above a large portion of the United States this weekend, space weather forecasters said Friday.

Federal forecasters from NOAA's Space Weather Prediction Center said that during previous solar activity of this magnitude, the "aurora has been seen as low as Alabama and northern California." NOAA experts said the aurora might be visible Friday, Saturday or Sunday nights.

"This is an unusual and potentially historic event," said Clinton Wallace, director of the Space Weather Prediction Center, in a statement .

Coronal mass ejections coming from the sun

The spectacle would be courtesy of a series of at least seven coronal mass ejections (CMEs) from the sun, which are forecast to reach the Earth early this weekend and produce the geomagnetic storms that trigger auroras. A rare G4 (severe) geomagnetic storm watch remained in effect for Saturday, May 11, NOAA said.

Friday afternoon, G4 conditions were observed by the Space Weather Prediction Center , and "significant to severe geomagnetic storming is likely to continue," the center said.

More details will be known about the severity of the event and the possible extent of the aurora later Friday evening as the first CME approaches the Earth, Shawn Dahl, a space weather forecaster at SWPC, told reporters Friday morning during a news briefing.

The northern lights are the most benign result of solar activity. Strong solar storms – including G4s – can also disrupt some radio communications, harm satellites and even knock out power systems, forecasters warned.

Storm watch upgraded to rare G4 − the first since 2005

"This weekend's geomagnetic storm watch has been upgraded from  G2  (Moderate) to  G4  (Severe)," according to astronomer Tony Phillips, writing on SpaceWeather.com . "Why? Because giant sunspot AR3664 keeps hurling CMEs toward Earth. Following  today's X2.2 solar flare , there are now at least 4 storm clouds heading our way," Phillips said.

The Space Weather Prediction Center only rarely issues "severe" storm watches. The last time such an alert was issued was January 2005. "Watches at this level are very rare," the center said.

The colorful aurora forms when particles flowing from the sun get caught up in Earth's magnetic field. The particles interact with molecules of atmospheric gases to cause the famed glowing green and reddish colors of the aurora.

More details: When could you see the northern lights? Aurora forecast for over a dozen states this weekend

Auroras are notoriously a fickle forecast

The aurora can be fickle to forecast, so some caution is warranted before adjusting your weekend plans. Unlike terrestrial weather, scientists who forecast space weather – which includes the aurora – must rely on observations of the 93-million-miles-away sun to make their predictions.

"There are so many uncertainties, it makes it difficult to predict," Bill Murtagh, the program coordinator at the Space Weather Prediction Center, told USA TODAY last year . And as hard as it is to forecast weather here on Earth, "we are decades behind the forecast capabilities of our colleagues in meteorology," he admitted, referring to space weather.

Solar maximum is here

The northern lights, aka the aurora borealis, have been appearing more frequently in the night sky over the United States recently. In April 2023, for example, a stunning aurora display was seen as far south as  Arkansas in the South and Arizona in the West.  

So why the uptick in aurora sightings? And is this expected to continue? Well, if you love the aurora, you're in luck, as it may be coming to a sky near you more often over the next few years thanks to the "solar maximum," which is expected to peak this year.

"There have been an increase in aurora seen in general on Earth,"  Shannon Schmoll, the director of the Abrams Planetarium at Michigan State University  told USA TODAY last year. "The sun has been more active, resulting in more solar storms that cause solar flares and coronal mass ejections (CME).

Tips for viewing the northern lights

"Go out at night," NOAA said. "And get away from city lights."

The best aurora is usually within an hour or two of midnight (between 10:00 p.m. and 2:00 a.m. local time). These hours expand towards evening and morning as the level of geomagnetic activity increases.

There may be aurora in the evening and morning, but it is usually not as active and therefore, not as visually appealing, NOAA said.

Where will the weather cooperate for aurora viewing?

The best viewing conditions for the aurora are expected across the northern Plains and the Pacific Northwest, where mainly cloud-free conditions will lead to great views of the night sky, AccuWeather meteorologist Brian Lada said.

"Clouds will be a bigger issue for folks across the Northeast and part of the Midwest, although there could be a pocket around the Ohio Valley where breaks in the clouds will allow some views of the aurora," he said.

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‘Birthing friendly’ label requires little effort by hospitals

While hospital designations may have little utility for patients, they have evolved to become powerful ways to get hospitals to improve patient care, experts say. 

For example, California’s Cal Hospital Compare awards the “maternity care honor roll” to hospitals that have C-section rates below 23.6 percent, a goal that aligns with the Department of Health and Human Services’ “Healthy People 2030” initiative to reduce C-section births among low-risk, first-time mothers. 

“It’s really a great carrot for hospitals and other facilities to improve,” said Alex Stack, director of programs and strategic initiatives at Cal Healthcare Compare.  

Cal Healthcare Compare is working on revamping the model to include data on severe complications, access to doula care and breastfeeding. 

“The great thing about an honor roll is it gives additional emphasis and helps facilities to prioritize further what the collective state or region is trying to work towards together,” Stack said. 

The honor roll in California is part of a multifaceted effort to reduce C-section rates. According to provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, California’s rate of C-sections in low-risk mothers was 25.9 percent, below the national average of 26.6 percent. 

Throughout the country, there is extreme variability between different hospitals and different regions that can’t be explained solely by patient characteristics, Main said. The culture of a hospital and the training of the people who work there likely have more of an impact.

Better data collection could be part of the solution. 

This is the first year CMS will require acute care hospitals report rates of severe obstetric complications and C-sections, which will give a fuller picture of the issue at individual hospitals. Currently, that data is not collected in a widespread manner. 

“We intend to propose a more robust set of criteria for awarding the designation in future notice-and-comment rulemaking,” a CMS spokesperson said in a statement. “CMS is considering how to build upon the Maternal Morbidity Structural measure through the future inclusion of clinical outcome and patient experience measures.”   

As CMS puts more requirements on the measure, hospitals could lose the designation if their care does not improve. 

Of more than 1,300 birthing-friendly hospitals surveyed by the Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit focused on health care transparency, 58 percent — 782 hospitals —did not meet the Healthy People 2030 goal of a C-section rate of 23.6 percent, according to a CQ Roll Call analysis. 

While there are still six years to meet that goal, 56 percent of those hospitals are also not meeting the Healthy People 2020 goal of 23.9 percent. 

And nearly 21 percent of the birthing-friendly hospitals — 279 hospitals — had C-section rates of 30 percent or higher. 

Main said adding disqualifiers to the designation could be an option. 

“One thing that’s been discussed… is to be an awarded hospital you can’t have a high C-section rate. A C-section rate over 30, that would disqualify you,” he said. “There’s no reason for hospitals to have over 30 percent  C-section rate.”

For example, Harrison Memorial Hospital in Kentucky had the highest rate of all of the “birthing friendly” hospitals at 58 percent of births done through C-section. The hospital did not respond to a request for comment. 

Still, that doesn’t stop hospitals from touting their designation on social media without explaining to patients what that really means. 

While Hernández-Cancio said she understands the intent behind making it simple for hospitals to initially achieve the designation, she said nothing is stopping a hospital from advertising the award in the future even if it loses that award as standards ramp up. 

“If it’s being used for marketing and PR, that’s a bit problematic,” she said. 

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