Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase an item, I will receive a commission at no extra cost to you. All opinions are my own.
| |

45 Best Things to Do in Washington DC

There are so many fun things to do in Washington DC that planning a trip there can be a little overwhelming. So I’ve put together a list of some of the top things to do when you visit the nation’s capital.

The best part of visiting Washington DC is that most of the top museums and attractions are free to visit, so this is a great place for budget travelers!

I’ve been to DC numerous times as a kid and as an adult, and I’m always finding something new to explore. So no need to worry, you’ll never be bored with these top things to do in Washington DC!

US Capitol, Washington DC

Post Contents

Best Things to Do in Washington DC

1. Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Washington DC

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is probably one of DC’s most famous museums. Exhibits explore the story of our planet from billions of years ago to life on earth today.

This museum holds a huge collection of fossils. You can even watch scientists work on real fossils in the fossil lab. I also really enjoyed their mammals exhibit because I got to learn a lot about bears! The museum also holds the Hope Diamond and other precious gems.

The National Museum of Natural History has so many fascinating permanent exhibits as well as ever-changing temporary exhibits that explore everything from nature to epidemics to space.

Related tour: Smithsonian Museum of Natural History Exclusive Guided Tour

2. See the Lincoln Memorial

Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool, Washington DC

The Lincoln Memorial immortalizes in marble the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, known for guiding the country through the Civil War and freeing 4 million enslaved persons.

You’ll find this iconic memorial towering over the Reflecting Pool on the western end of the National Mall.

The memorial measures 190 feet long, 119 feet wide, and almost 100 feet tall. There are 36 columns around the Greek-temple-inspired memorial, representing the number of states in the US at the time of Lincoln’s death.

The statue of Lincoln measures 19 feet tall and weighs 175 tons. It is carved from Georgia white marble.

Related tour: DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour

3. Stroll along the National Mall

The National Mall is the long park space that runs between the US Capitol, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, and the White House. The Smithsonian museums line the sides of the Mall.

The Mall is is a wide, pedestrian-friendly, and tree-lined boulevard that will take you by museums, monuments, memorials, celebrations, and protests. This is the heart of Washington DC.

There’s a lot to see and a lot of walking to do, especially in the blazing summer heat. Between the steps of the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall spans almost 2 miles. You could also consider biking or scootering along the pathways.

Related tour: DC National Mall Night Tour with 10 Stops, Reserved Entry Tickets

4. Visit the National Gallery of Art

Monet Paintings, National Gallery of Art, Washington D.C.

The National Gallery of Art has a collection of 141,000 works of art from around the Western world. Spanning two buildings, this art museum includes some of the world’s best paintings, drawings, prints, photographs, sculptures, decorative arts, and new media.

The museum’s permanent exhibit has art from the Middle Ages to the present, including a huge collection of Italian artwork (and the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the Americas) and plenty of paintings by Monet (who is my favorite artist).

Temporary exhibitions display art from around the world and cover the history of art. They also offer year-round programming like lectures, tours, concerts, films, and family-friendly activities.

Related tour: The National Gallery of Art DC Exclusive Guided Museum Tour

5. Tour the United States Capitol

The domed US Capitol Building is the home of Congress and the legislative branch. Here in the House of Representatives and Senate, members of Congress debate laws and pass bills.

You can climb Capitol Hill to get a picture with the iconic white-stoned building. You can also tour the Crypt, Rotunda, National Statuary Hall, and Senate and House Galleries when Congress is not in session.

Public tours of the United States Capitol are free and available to everyone. I’d recommend making an advanced reservation, though you can also get some same-day tickets.

When Congress is in session, you can also get a pass to view the Senate and House galleries through your representative. International visitors can ask about gallery passes at the Capitol Visitor Center.

Related tour: Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress

6. Visit the Library of Congress

You can visit the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world with more than 164 million books, photos, recordings, maps, and more.

A visit to the Library of Congress is free and it starts at the Thomas Jefferson Building. This beautiful Gilded Age building is a work of art in itself. There are also several exhibits showcasing some of the library’s collection.

One of the most important items on display is the Gutenberg Bible, the first book produced from the invention of the printing press. The Library of Congress’ copy is one of only three complete copies in existence that was printed on treated calfskin. (If you want to see more Gutenberg Bibles, I recommend the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz, Germany where the printings originated and the British Library in London, England where you can see another complete copy printed on treated calfskin.)

You can also look into the Main Reading Room, an ornately decorated room where researchers come to peruse the tomes. There is a view from a visitor overlook on the second floor of the Thomas Jefferson Building, and they also take guided tours into the Reading Room for a quick look.

7. Get a Library of Congress Card

Main Reading Room of the Library of Congress, Washington DC

Yes, you can get a library card for the Library of Congress! That also means that you can have access to the library’s collection and the beautiful Main Reading Room whenever you want.

A Library of Congress card is available to US citizens who are 16+ with a valid government issued photo ID. You can pre-register online or register in person. The process is as simple as getting a local library card. Your new Library of Congress card is good for 2 years.

You can then access the Main Reading Room and other research centers. They’re very strict on what you can bring into the centers: you can’t bring large bags, and some personal belongings may not be allowed in some research centers. You can leave these items in the cloak rooms in the Jefferson and Madison buildings before visiting.

8. Visit the Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is an obelisk on the National Mall that was built to commemorate George Washington, a Founding Father and the first president of the United States.

This 555-foot-tall marble obelisk towers over Washington DC and is the world’s tallest free-standing stone structure and obelisk.

A ride up the elevator to the top of the Washington Monument is a must. From here, you can see nearly 25 miles in every direction.

While the Washington Monument is free to visit, there is a $1 service fee for reserving your ticket in advance. These sell out pretty quickly. There are also a limited number of walk-up tickets available outside of the Washington Monument Lodge, which are completely free, but they sell out quickly as well. If you don’t want to fuss with all of that, you can pay more for tickets here.

9. Visit the International Spy Museum

The International Spy Museum is a fun, interactive history museum all about spies and espionage.

The museum is full of immersive and interactive elements that give you a glimpse into the secret world of spies. You get to take on a spy alias, test your espionage skills, and complete a top-secret mission.

All the while, you’ll learn about the history, gadgetry, and techniques of spying. You’ll see real-world examples of espionage, learn about secret agents and covert missions, and see how they’ve influenced fiction, movies, and TV.

10. Check out Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Panda Bear at the Smithsonian's National Zoo, Washington DC

Smithsonian’s National Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States. There are over 1,500 animals inside this 163-acre park, from lions to tigers to bears (oh my!).

The zoo houses animals from all over the world. My favorite are the bears, and the National Zoo currently has panda bears, sloth bears, and Andean black bears (spectacled bears). This is one of the few zoos in the US with panda bears!

There are also plenty of monkeys, big cats, elephants, and more. Their popular exhibits include the Elephant Trails, Great Ape House, Cheetah Conservation Station, and the American Trail.

One thing to note is that the zoo grounds open at 8 a.m., but many animals won’t be on exhibit until about 9:30-10 a.m., and neither will the gift shops or concessions be open yet.

11. See the Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Thomas Jefferson Memorial, Washington DC

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial immortalizes the 3rd president of the US and author of the Declaration of Independence.

You’ll find this iconic memorial on the National Mall’s Tidal Basin. In the spring, it’s surrounded by the city’s famed cherry blossoms.

The memorial is designed to look like the Pantheon in Rome and is a circular, open-air building with a diameter of about 165 feet. It’s made of white Imperial Danby marble from Vermont.

Inside is a 19-foot-tall bronze statue of Jefferson, surrounded by many of his famous quotes.

12. Tour the White House

The White House is the official residency of the president of the United States, and has served as such since the presidency of John Adams in 1800.

The home was designed in the Neoclassical style, modeled after Leinster House in Dublin, which houses the Irish legislature.

Don’t be surprised to find yourself in the midst of a protest or two when you visit; this is a popular spot for people to practice their First Amendment rights.

It is free to tour the White House, but you’ll have to submit a tour request months in advance through your representative if you’re a US citizen, or through your embassy in DC if you’re an international visitor.

13. Explore Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is the largest military cemetery in the country. It serves as the final resting place for more than 400,000 military veterans and their family.

The cemetery is known for the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a memorial to unidentified fallen soldiers who fought in World War I, World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Inside the Tomb are the remains of 3 unknown soldiers from WWI, WWII, and Korea; there was a fourth soldier from Vietnam who was later identified, and his family had his body reinterred at another cemetery.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is guarded 24 hours a day, every day of the ear by Tomb Guard sentinels from the elite 3rd US Infantry Regiment. The Changing of the Guard ceremony is an elaborate ritual of switching out the guards. It takes place every hour in from October through March and every half hour from April through September.

Since the Tomb’s creation in 1926, there have only been 7 female Tomb Guards. There is currently a female Tomb Guard, and we were lucky enough to see her when we visited. She went viral in 2023 for staying on mission during a storm with 60-85 mph winds.

The cemetery is the final resting place of President John F. Kennedy, President William Howard Taft, the seven Space Shuttle Challenger astronauts, the Tuskegee Airmen, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and many more important people.

This is a huge cemetery, covering 639 acres, so a visit involves a lot of walking. They do have a tram tour that stops at important sites, which you can buy tickets for and is free for those with disabilities.

Related tour: Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards

14. Visit the Planet Word Museum

Planet Word is an interactive language arts museum that brings language to life. Located at the historic Franklin School, Planet Word is a lesson in linguistics that’s fun and immersive.

This is the world’s first voice-activated museum. You’ll learn where words come from, get a crash course in languages from around the world, make speeches and do karaoke, and tell each other jokes, and it’s all voice-activated.

There are other fun exhibits that let you paint with words, bring story books to life, dive into the language of advertising, and more.

This was probably the most fun we’ve had at a museum! This is by far one of my favorite things to do in DC.

15. Tour Ford’s Theatre

Ford’s Theatre is the infamous playhouse where President Lincoln was assassinated in 1865.

The theater is now a historic site, that’s free to visit, where you can explore a museum in the basement with exhibits on Lincoln’s presidency, the Civil War, the assassination conspiracy, and the aftermath. You’ll see the pistol John Wilkes Booth used to assassinate President Lincoln, a pillow with Lincoln’s bloodstains, and more.

You can also go inside the theater to see the Presidential Box where the assassination happened. However, if there’s a play in rehearsal, the theater will be closed (because it’s still an active theater!). But if that’s the case, you can still see inside the theater by attending a play!

Related tour: The Night of Lincoln’s Assassination Walking Tour

16. Tour the Petersen House

The Peterson House is part of the Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site. This is the boarding house across the street from Ford’s Theatre where Abraham Lincoln died.

You’ll be able to see three rooms on the main floor of the building: the front room where Mary Lincoln spent the night grieving, the middle room where Secretary of War Edwin Stanton temporarily led the federal government, and the back bedroom where Lincoln died.

You don’t need a separate ticket to visit the Peterson House, it’s included in your ticket to Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site.

17. Visit the Folger Shakespeare Library

The Folger Shakespeare Library is the largest Shakespeare collection in the world. Folger is a museum, a library, and a theater all in one!

The museum has exhibits on Shakespeare’s life and his plays, and their world-famous collection includes First Folios and rare books. They have 168 quarto editions (small one-play books) of Shakespeare’s plays and poems, 82 copies of the 1623 First Folio (a large book of36 Shakespeare plays, including 18 that had never been published before), 58 copies of the 1632 Second Folio, 23 copies of the 1663-64 Third Folio, and 39 copies of the 1685 Fourth Folio.

In addition to their Shakespeare collection, the museum also has a bunch of rare books. They’ll rotate what is out on display, but they include signed and early editions of classics like Winnie The Pooh and Pride & Prejudice.

The Reading Room library is open to anyone for research. You’ll need to register for a Folger ID before you can visit.

At the center of the building is the Folger Theatre where you can see Shakespeare’s works performed on stage. The theater also puts on other plays from Shakespeare’s time, modern retellings and interpretations of Shakespeare’s plays, immersive performances, and workshops. When you visit the museum, you may even be able to sit in on a rehearsal of an upcoming play.

18. Go to the top of the Old Post Office Tower

The Old Post Office Tower & Museum is located in what is now the Waldorf Astoria Washington DC Hotel.

This is the second tallest structure in DC, after the Washington Monument. It housed the US Post Office from 1899 until 1914.

It’s free to go to the top of the 315-foot clock tower to the observation deck where you’ll get panoramic views of the city. The small museum portion contains pictures and information on the building’s history and the interior workings of the clock.

19. Visit the National Building Museum

The National Building Museum is dedicated to architecture, design, engineering, and construction. The museum has a number of rotating exhibits displayed throughout the massive 1887 Pension Bureau Building.

The building itself is a great place for a museum dedicated to the building arts. Inside, the Renaissance Revival building has some of the largest Corinthian columns in the world, made of 70,000 bricks and painted to look like marble. On the exterior, a frieze around the entire building features carvings of Civil War soldiers.

The museum hosts an array of rotating exhibits. You can find everything from Capital Brutalism to Frank Lloyd Wright to LEGO to miniatures. They’ve had exhibits on murals, affordable housing construction, Notre Dame, and more.

20. Visit the Smithsonian Castle

Smithsonian Castle, Washington DC

The Smithsonian Castle, formally named the Smithsonian Institution Building, is the visitor center for the Smithsonian museums. This beautiful neo-Gothic building towers over the National Mall.

The Castle is the Smithsonian’s first and oldest building. It was originally built to be the institution’s administrative building. Today, it also serves as the visitor center for all Smithsonian museums.

In their America’s Treasure Chest display, you can find items from each of the Smithsonian museums on display. The crypt holds the tomb of James Smithson, the namesake of the Smithsonian Institute. There are also tours of the castle where you can learn more about the building’s architecture and history.

You don’t have to visit here before going to the museums, but it’s a great starting point if you need any help planning your visit to DC.

21. Check out the National Archives Museum

National Archives, Washington D.C.

In the National Archives Museum, you’ll be able to see important documents from the founding of the United States: the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and the Constitution.

These are the major draws, but the Archives also has other great exhibits to explore. They have all kinds of documents and records that shaped America’s history, including a copy of Magna Carta, presidential papers, and rotating exhibits.

Related tour: Best of DC Plus National Archives and US Capitol Reserved Entry

22. Explore historic Georgetown

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood of Washington DC that is full of cobblestone streets, Federal-style architecture, and old-town charm.

The neighborhood is home to Georgetown University, the oldest standing building in DC, lots of great restaurants, and plenty of upscale shopping.

You can go shopping, wander the cobblestone streets, enjoy waterfront dining, hit up a college bar, or walk along the Georgetown Waterfront Park or bike along the C&O Canal.

Related tour: Georgetown Foodie Culinary Tour & Neighborhood Walk

23. Have a Mystery Picnic in Georgetown & Foggy Bottom

AmazingCo Mystery Picnic Date

Explore DC’s oldest neighborhood on a fun Mystery Picnic! This Mystery Picnic Date in Georgetown & Foggy Bottom is like a scavenger hunt to collect picnic items and unlock the perfect picnic location.

You’ll solve clues and riddles that lead you to local restaurants and shops where you’ll pick up items for your picnic. Then, you’ll unlock your mystery picnic destination.

This is a great way to get off the beaten track and uncover hidden gems. You’ll be able to enjoy a unique day out and support local small businesses in the process.

Book your Georgetown Mystery Picnic Date here.

24. Walk along the Tidal Basin

Cherry blossoms lining the Tidal Basin in Washington DC with the Washington Monument in the background and a clear blue sky.

The Tidal Basin is the human-made reservoir on the western part of the National Mall. It separates the Potomac River from the Washington Channel and was built to flush sediment from the Channel using the power of the tides.

For a not-so-pretty job, the Tidal Basin serves as a pretty backdrop for some of DC’s best monuments. You’ll find the Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the FDR Memorial, the George Mason Memorial, the John Paul Jones Memorial, the Floral Library, the Japanese Pagoda, the Japanese Lantern, and site of the First Cherry Tree Planting around the Tidal Basin.

This is also where you’ll find the majority of Washington DC’s famous cherry blossoms. There are around 3,000 cherry trees planted around the Tidal Basin.

Walk along the 2-mile Tidal Basin Loop to see all the cherry trees in the spring and all the famous monuments and memorials.

25. Visit the WWII Memorial

WWII Memorial, Washington DC

The National WWII Memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served during World War II.

The memorial is in the middle of the National Mall, between the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial.

There are 56 granite columns representing the 48 states, 7 territories, and DC that had been established at the time of WWII. The columns form a semi-circle around the plaza fountain, with the northern arch representing victory in the Atlantic and the southern arch representing victory in the Pacific.

26. Enjoy the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

The Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art is located adjacent to the West Building and is a treasure trove of botanicals and sculptures.

The garden exhibits several works from the museum’s contemporary sculpture collection.

Cutting through the Sculpture Garden is a fun route to take to get to the National Mall because you’re surrounded by serene art.

27. Tour the Pentagon

Paige at the Pentagon podium, Washington DC, Arlington, Virginia

The Pentagon is the headquarters for the Department of Defense. It is one of the largest office buildings in the world, covering 6.5 million square feet and spanning 28.7 acres, with an additional 5.1 acre central courtyard.

The long hallways inside are like separate museums; they’re filled with information and artifacts about military history, the country’s defense systems, and the building of the Pentagon itself. There’s also a small part that they’ve left in the original 1940s condition so you can see what the interior looked like before all the renovations.

The western side of the building was damaged during the September 11 attacks. September 11, 2001 was also coincidentally the 60th anniversary of the Pentagon’s ground breaking.

There is a small indoor memorial and chapel at the point of impact. You can read the stories and the names of the 184 victims of the attack, both of those who were at the Pentagon and those who were on the hijacked plane. There is also an outdoor memorial that anyone can access with 184 benches.

Tours of the Pentagon are only available to US citizens, and you must make an reservation well in advance of your visit.

28. See the Cherry Blossoms in spring

Cherry Blossoms with the Washington Monument and a clear blue sky in the background at the Tidal Basin in Washington DC.

In 1909, a travel writer named Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore and first lady Helen Herron Taft struck a deal with the city of Tokyo to donate cherry blossoms to Washington DC. By 1912, DC had over 3,000 new cherry blossoms to cover the city with.

Helen Taft and the Viscountess Chinda, wife of the Japanese Ambassador, helped plant the first two Yoshino cherry trees on the northwestern bank of the Tidal Basin on March 27, 1912.

Today, you can find cherry blossoms all over the city. The Tidal Basin is the most popular spot to see them. And each spring, the city celebrates with a 4-week-long National Cherry Blossom Festival with arts and cultural events celebrating the cherry tree.

The cherry blossoms bloom in the spring, usually around late-March to early-April, and this is a very popular time to visit Washington DC.

Related tour: The DC Cherry Blossom Tour

29. Discover nightlife at The Wharf

The Wharf, Washington DC

The Wharf is a waterfront district in Washington DC that runs along the Washington Channel. This trendy area has tons of shops, restaurants, entertainment, hotels, and apartments.

They even have the country’s oldest continually operating open-air fish market. At the Wharf, you can eat fresh seafood on the waterfront and shop from local boutique stores.

It’s a very lively scene, and they have great rooftop bars with amazing views!

30. Take a walk through Chinatown

Chinatown, Washington D.C.

Chinatown is a small historic neighborhood of DC that was popular with Chinese immigrants in the 1930s.

This area is home to tons of great restaurants, the iconic Friendship Archway, and the Capitol One Arena. This is a great place to grab a bite to eat; you’ll find a huge array of Asian and other international cuisine.

The intersection of H Street at 7th Street is where you’ll find the Friendship Archway, a traditional Chinese gate donated to DC by sister city Beijing in 1968.

31. Stay at the Willard Hotel

The Willard InterContinental Washington DC Hotel, usually just called the Willard Hotel, is a historic hotel where DC’s political elite have been hanging out for over a century. It’s one of the best places to stay in DC, but you don’t have to stay here to appreciate its history.

The first Willard’s Hotel opened in 1847. The present 12-story hotel opened in 1901. It’s turn-of-the-century elegance attracts a lot of high profile guests, from presidents and vice presidents to movie producers to newspaper tycoons.

Every president since Franklin Pierce (inaugurated in 1853) has either attended an event or gotten a room at the hotel. Ulysses S. Grant enjoyed drinking and smoking in the lobby, and hotel lore (a.k.a. marketing propaganda) says that this is the origin of the term “lobbying” (unlikely as the term “to lobby” predates Grant’s “lobbying” days).

The hotel is filled with history, and even if you don’t book a room there, you can still pop in and take a look at the elaborate lobby, decked out in gold, marble, and classy wood finishes.

32. Have a drink at the Round Robin Bar

The Round Robin Bar at the Willard Hotel is also a historic spot, and it’s a great place for some pre-dinner cocktails.

It’s so-named for its circular wooden bar in the middle of the room.

And here at this round bar, surrounded by oak-paneled walls, brown leather seating, and cigar-lounge vibes, is where DC’s political and social elite would rub elbows. The walls are adorned with portraits of famous people who have visited.

Local legend says that Senator Henry Clay introduced the Mint Julep to DC, and now the cocktail is the bar’s signature drink. There’s also talk of the bar having a chair with a cigar mark on the arm from President Grant.

33. Have a drink at Off The Record

Blue champagne cocktail and a martini from Off The Record bar, Washington DC

Off The Record is “the place to be seen but not heard”. Located in the basement of The Hay-Adams, it’s like a luxurious speakeasy for political junkies.

The interior is a sultry red-and-black, they have political cartoons decorating the walls, and the thing to do is collect their coasters with cartoon drawings of all of DC’s movers and shakers.

Get a classic cocktail like a Martini or an Old Fashioned, or go for one of their specialty cocktails. I recommend the Blue Wave Sparkling Cocktail or the Classic Pear Martini.

34. Get boozy ice cream from Tipsy Scoop

Ice cream flight from Tipsy Scoop, Washington DC

Tipsy Scoop is a boozy ice cream parlor in Chinatown where you can get scoops of ice cream made with alcohol. For obvious reasons, this ice cream shop is 21+.

You can get a scoop, a flight, a cocktail sundae, or pick up a pint. They have flavors like Spiked Mint Chip, Vanilla Bean Bourbon, Dark Chocolate Whiskey Salted Caramel, and Cake Batter Vodka Martini. Their DC exclusive flavor is the Cherry Blossom Old Fashioned.

35. Attend the Maryland Renaissance Festival

Located about 1 hour from Washington DC in Annapolis, MD, the Maryland Renaissance Festival makes for a great day trip in the fall. The festival runs from late August to late October.

The 27-acre Revel Grove is like stepping into the 16th century. There are over 200 performers, 10 stages, a joust, 140 artisans, and plenty of family-friendly entertainment from giant slides to axe-throwing.

The festival has dozens of food stalls with everything from Hot Apple Dumplings to Crab Cake Sandwiches, to Steak on a Stake to giant Smoked Turkey Legs.

If you like dressing up and cosplaying, then you’ll fit right in at the Maryland Renaissance Festival! There are themed weekends, or you can stick to traditional Renaissance dress.

36. Take a day trip to Old Town Alexandria

Alexandria, Virginia

DC is actually really close to a lot of other fun places, and if you want to see more of the country’s history, you should definitely consider getting out of the city with a day trip.

A visit to Old Town Alexandria, Virginia is one of the quickest day trips. You can easily get there by Metro.

Alexandria is filled with cobblestoned streets and interesting historical sites. Step back in time to the 18th century to visit sites like George Washington’s townhouse, the Stabler-Leadbeater Apothecary Museum, and Gadsby’s Tavern Museum.

Be sure to also check out the local art at the Torpedo Factory Art Center and stroll along King Street in the heart of Old Town Alexandria.

Related tour: Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon Tour

37. Have a Mystery Picnic in Alexandria

AmazingCo Mystery Picnic

Explore the historic streets of Alexandria on a fun Mystery Picnic! This Mystery Picnic Date in Alexandria puts you on a scavenger hunt to collect picnic items and unlock your perfect picnic location.

You’ll solve clues and riddles that lead you to local restaurants and shops where you’ll pick up items for your picnic (and Alexandria has over 200 independently owned restaurants and boutiques, so there’s plenty of options!). Then, you’ll unlock your mystery picnic destination.

This is a great way to get off the beaten track and uncover hidden gems. You’ll be able to enjoy a unique day out and support local small businesses in the process.

Book your Alexandria Mystery Picnic Date here.

38. Take a day trip to Baltimore

Baltimore Inner Harbor, Maryland

Baltimore, Maryland is another great day trip from DC. Just an hour away and accessible by car or train, Baltimore is full of art, history, food, and beer.

Some of the best things to do on a day trip to Baltimore are to visit the National Aquarium to see 20,000 animals and walk along the Inner Harbor, taking in the waterfront views of the city.

Be sure to also check out the Historic Ships in Baltimore and have a bite of Maryland crab at a local restaurant.

39. Visit a Rooftop Bar

Cocktail in front of the Wharf at Whiskey Charlie, Washington DC

I love a good rooftop bar, and Washington DC has plenty of them!

Because DC has a building height limit, the city’s skyline is largely uniform. So you’re practically guaranteed a good view, it just depends on which direction the rooftop bar faces.

(A local myth says that DC’s building heights are restricted because no structure can be taller than the US Capitol and the Washington Monument so as not to obscure them, but that’s not the real reason. When the first Height of Buildings Act was established in 1899, lawmakers were essentially distrustful of new steel-framed buildings and didn’t think they were stable enough to be tall, and fire fighting equipment that could only reach a certain height. And the act has pretty much stayed the same ever since.)

Some of my favorite DC rooftop bars are at the Wharf, where you can get great drinks and a waterfront view. You can also watch planes take off from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and fly into the sunset, which is really picturesque.

40. Find the SW DC Prehistoric Pocket Park

SW DC Prehistoric Pocket Park, Washington DC

If you’ve never heard of a “pocket park”, it’s essentially an art piece on a really small scale (like that could fit in your pocket) that is made to look like a park.

The SW DC Prehistoric Pocket Park is a tiny park of toy dinosaurs that someone put up in their front garden. You’ll find it at 602 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20024. Be sure to look down!

This hidden spark of sidewalk joy and wonder is right there for you on your walk between the Wharf and the L’Enfant Metro station.

If you really love pocket parks and tiny things, you should check out Hattiesburg, MS where you can visit their pocket museum and alleyway. This is where I was first introduced to the “pocket” concept, and it’s really fun!

41. Indulge at Levain Bakery

Cookies in a box from Levain Bakery, Washington DC

Levain Bakery is not a DC original. In fact, it’s a New York City favorite that has made its way down here. But it’s still worth the visit.

Started in NYC in 1995, Levain Bakery (from the French word for “leavened bread”) is known for their massive cookies. Particularly, the Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie.

You’ll find DC’s location in Georgetown. The bakery is small but mighty, drawing in huge lines that are out the door. But the cookies are huge, fresh, and warm.

42. Visit Union Market

Union Market is a food hall near NoMa and H Street. The food hall itself is the anchor of the trendy Union Market District that is full of restaurants, luxury apartments, and shops.

The food hall opened in 2012 with 40+ local gourmet food vendors and artisans. Nearby, La Cosecha opened in 2019 with an all-Latin Market food hall featuring cuisines from different Latin cultures.

Union Market is a foodie haven! Dine around at the food hall, attend community events, enjoy drinks with a view at Hi-Lawn rooftop bar, and shop local artisans.

43. Go shopping at Fashion Centre at Pentagon City

Interior of Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, Washington DC, Arlington, Virginia

If you’re in need of a little retail therapy while in Washington DC, then you’ll find plenty of shopping at Fashion Centre at Pentagon City, also called Pentagon City Mall.

Just a Metro stop away from the Pentagon, this mall has more than 150 stores with your favorite shops like Apple, Zara, MAC, Lululemon, Warby Parker, Tourneau, Savage x Fenty, Psycho Bunny, Nordstrom, and Macy’s.

44. Book a DC Photoshoot with Flytographer

A woman with long blonde hair, wearing a light cardigan with black accents over a mauve turtleneck, smiling in front of the U.S. Capitol building in Washington, D.C. The background shows leafless trees and the iconic white dome of the Capitol under a cloudy sky.

Explore DC with a fun and talented photographer, learn local tips, and capture priceless memories with photogenic backdrops. It’s a win all around!

With Flytographer, you can hire an amazing local photographer for a fun vacation photoshoot. Get wall-worthy photos that allow you to relive your trip as the perfect souvenir.

You can use my link here for $25 off your first Flytographer photoshoot.

Book your DC Flytographer photoshoot here, and get $25 off your first photoshoot.

45. Use the Tinggly Bucketlist box to find top experiences in Washington DC

Tinggly Bucketlist box

Treat yourself to an unforgettable adventure in Washington DC with the Tinggly Bucketlist box.

Tinggly boxes are essentially gift vouchers for experiences all around the world. But you can give yourself the gift of adventure, too. Especially because Tinggly has some Washington DC experiences you can’t find anywhere else!

With the Bucketlist box, you can treat yourself to unique DC experiences like a Bottomless Mimosa Brunch Cruise or a Private Chef Dining Experience or an Evening DC Tour.

Get yourself the Bucketlist box here, or check out other Washington DC experiences from Tinggly here.

Best Things to Do in Washington DC Map

Ready to explore all these top things to do in Washington DC? Use the map below to plan out your trip!

I hope you have an amazing visit to the United States capital!

Things to Do in DC FAQ

What is the most visited sight in Washington DC?

The National Mall is the most visited sight in Washington DC, and that’s because it’s at the center of all the other amazing DC attractions. If you’re visiting museums in DC, you’re going to find yourself walking along the National Mall!

Is Washington DC walkable for tourists?

Yes, Washington DC is very walkable. It’s one of the most walkable cities in the US! But there is still a lot of ground to cover, so you may want to consider riding the Metro or renting an electric scooter or electric bike to help you explore more of the city if you get tired of exploring on foot.

What is the best way to see everything in Washington DC?

The best way to see everything in Washington DC is by walking and by taking the Metro. Avoid taking a car so that you don’t have to experience DC’s famed gridlock. By exploring on foot, you get to see so much of the city, and it’s free! And the Metro is a good budget option for getting to the far reaches of the city.

How long does it take to walk and see the monuments in DC?

You can walk an 11.3 mile route to see all the monuments and memorials in DC, but it’ll take you about 3.5 hours to complete.

Save on Washington DC’s Top Attractions

Want to save big on Washington DC’s top attractions? With the Washington DC Sightseeing Pass, you can save up to 60% on the cost of entrance tickets to museums, tours, and attractions all around the city!

Visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover hidden gems handpicked by local experts. With one price and one pass, you have everything you need right on your phone. This is the perfect pass for visiting Washington DC!

Get your Washington DC Sightseeing Pass here.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Washington DC, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.

Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center

We enjoyed our stay at the Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center when attending an event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

This hotel has a great location. It’s just on the edge of Chinatown and is within easy walking distance to the National Mall and all the tourist hot spots. There are plenty of restaurant options and nightlife nearby.

Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf

We love the location of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf, though the hotel’s customer service could use some work.

The Wharf is a great spot to be for beautiful waterfront views and lots of dining and nightlife. It’s also only a 10-15 minute walk from two different Metro stations, and it’s really easy to get to and from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

Explore even more of the nation’s capital! Check out these other top tips for visiting Washington DC.


Ready to visit Washington DC? Plan your trip with these tips.


Cheers!

Paige

29 Best Things to Do in Washington DC

What are your favorite things to do in Washington DC? Let me know in the comments!

Similar Posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *