Things To Do in Washington DC

Browse popular tours and discover 40 tips recommended by our locals

Locals’ Favourite Sights in Washington DC

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Meridian Hill Park

Local Tip ∙ Sights

Meridian Hill Park

Tiered urban park w/ cascading fountain

National Gallery of Art

Local Tip ∙ Sights

National Gallery of Art

Huge permanent collection of art

National Portrait Gallery

Local Tip ∙ Sights

National Portrait Gallery

Free art museum full of portraits

United States Botanic Garden

Local Tip ∙ Sights

United States Botanic Garden

A real gem in a corner of the mall

Local Tip ∙ Sights

Eastern Market

Fresh food and arts&crafts

Great Falls Park

Local Tip ∙ Sights

Great Falls Park

Amazing views for the outdoorsy types!

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Local Tip ∙ Sights

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Beacon of the freedom movement

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Fun Activities in Washington DC

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Politics & Prose Bookstore and Modern Times Coffeehouse

Local Tip ∙ Fun & Active

Politics & Prose Bookstore and Modern Times Coffeehouse

Politicos and the literati

Washington Monument

Local Tip ∙ Fun & Active

Washington Monument

First in war, first in peace...

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Local Tip ∙ Fun & Active

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

A wall of names

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Eastern Market

Eastern Market

By Adrienne

Fresh food and arts&crafts

Eastern Market

8

The market is alive on weekends, although some indoor stalls remain open on weekdays. Given its proximity to Capital Hill, one can easily combine a visit to the Hill with a stop at Eastern Market. Read more ›

by Adrienne

National Portrait Gallery

National Portrait Gallery

By Lisa

Free art museum full of portraits

National Portrait Gallery

7

Whether you're obsessed with the presidents, literary figures, historic rich Americans--anything from the famous to the infamous--then there's surely a gem here for you. This free museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution. It shares a building with the Smithsonian American Art Museum (which is also free and easy to end up in from the former). Read more ›

by Lisa

Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park

By Meenakshi

Amazing views for the outdoorsy types!

Great Falls Park

9

With three overlooks to choose from, you can experience the falls from different viewpoints.The park offers a variety of activities including whitewater kayaking, horseback riding or walking the trails, and picnicking! Read more ›

by Meenakshi

Local Experience

Museum Hack: Badass Bitches of the National Gallery of Art

Museum Hack: Badass Bitches of the National Gallery of Art

Dismantle the patriarchy with us on our subversive feminist tour of the National Gallery of Art and leave inspired to change the world.

Prices from

49 USD

Duration

2 h

Languages

English

United States Botanic Garden

United States Botanic Garden

By Adrienne

A real gem in a corner of the mall

United States Botanic Garden

9

While visitors flock to the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall, they often miss the United States Botanic Garden, which is a real pity. A wide range of indoor and outdoor exhibits is offered - showcasing both common and rare species covering desert, rainforest, jungle and many other landscapes. Read more ›

by Adrienne

Jazz in the Garden

Jazz in the Garden

By Meenakshi

Smooth Jazz, Warm Summer Breeze

Jazz in the Garden

6

If you're in DC between May-September, this is a great way to enjoy some free jazz music in a casual and fun atmosphere. It's a laid-back event to attend after a full-day of sightseeing where you have the option of sitting and chatting or even bringing a book while you listen. Read more ›

by Meenakshi

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

By Lisa

Beacon of the freedom movement

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

9

There are many important memorials and sights to see along the Tidal Basin and the National Mall. This is the first (of hopefully many) which commemorates a non-white figure in American history (let's hope the count of women and of diverse figures goes up as well). The monument features an MLK quote and a gorgeous view of the Tidal Basin. Read more ›

by Lisa

National Gallery of Art

National Gallery of Art

By Lisa

Huge permanent collection of art

National Gallery of Art

6

The National Gallery of art is located on the National Mall. The art is housed in two huge buildings and a sculpture garden, which are all connected by foot (all of which are, also, free). The art is mostly American and European (with Asian art at the nearby Freer and Sackler galleries). You could lose days to the permanent collections alone. Read more ›

by Lisa

Local Experience

Vintage Polaroid Tour Washington DC

Vintage Polaroid Tour Washington DC

Join Louisa and explore the US capital Washington, DC from a different angle. Use a vintage Polaroid camera and take home your own unique souvenirs!

Prices from

59 EUR

Duration

3 h

Languages

English

Politics & Prose Bookstore and Modern Times Coffeehouse

Politics & Prose Bookstore and Modern Times Coffeehouse

By Lisa

Politicos and the literati

Politics & Prose Bookstore and Modern Times Coffeehouse

6

One of Washington DC's most spacious independent booksellers, Politics & Prose is known for its stellar and steady line-up of readings and events each day and night. The staff are well-read and ready to make recommendations and conversation with patrons. This mentality illuminates the particular, rigorous selection of reads at the store. Read more ›

by Lisa

National Air and Space Museum

Things To Do 5 0

National Air and Space Museum

By Lisa

Largest collection of air & space crafs

National Air and Space Museum

5

The Air and Space Museum is one of the Smithsonian Museums. It documents the history of aviation and space exploration, from the beginning of flight though contemporaneity. The museum boasts many vehicle displays of planes, spacecrafts, rockets, and the like. Read more ›

by Lisa

Meridian Hill Park

Meridian Hill Park

By Lisa

Tiered urban park w/ cascading fountain

Meridian Hill Park

7

Because the park is on a hill's slope, the tiered levels provide scenic views, interesting architecture, and a variety of vibes in each pocket on any given Sunday, if you will. The upper mall has been used for concerts, gatherings, and even political rallies during the late 60's. Currently, drum circles are common. Read more ›

by Lisa

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Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

By Lisa

Renowned art museum w/sculpture garden

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

5

Just over 40 years old, the Hirshhorn is a place of art, criticism, and dialogue in its history and in the contents within the museum. The sculpture garden is unique and hosts a spectrum of things from a wishing tree to works by Rodin. The Hirshhorn has thousands of pieces and boasts contemporary exhibits year round. Read more ›

by Lisa

National Museum of the American Indian

National Museum of the American Indian

By Lisa

On Native American culture and history

National Museum of the American Indian

5

From artifacts, to literature, to modern media displays, the National Museum of the American Indian is dedicated to the culture and history of Native Americans, and the art and artifacts that illuminate said narrative. There is a sister museum of its kind in New York city, and a research and collections facility in Maryland as well. Read more ›

by Lisa

Dolcezza Gelato Factory and Coffee Lab

Things To Do 4 0

Dolcezza Gelato Factory and Coffee Lab

By Lisa

Local cafe and gelato shop

Dolcezza Gelato Factory and Coffee Lab

4

The factory is amazing and near one of DC's hidden gems, Union Market. There are a host of artisanal foodmakers in the open air market, but the Dolcezza factory, just behind, is quite special. Take a weekend tour to learn more about production, why Dolcezza was founded, and to taste the freshest gelato with innovative flavors around. Read more ›

by Lisa

George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate, Museum & Gardens

George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate, Museum & Gardens

By Lisa

Washington's vast estate

George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate, Museum & Gardens

4

Mount Vernon is a scenic American pastoral. It has a rich history (both of war and peace in America) for many Americans, particularly those with congressional and/or military roots. Besides being a piece of important history, the grounds also get you to Virginia where you can see the Potomac, and where you're a hop-skip from Arlington Cemetery. Read more ›

by Lisa

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

By Lisa

Founding father, revolutionary, thinker

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

5

Thomas Jefferson, America's 3rd president, was one of the most influential figures in inventing America as we know it today. Main writer of the Declaration of Independence, Founding Father, first US Secretary of State, and Vice President are just a handful of his other credentials. The Jefferson Memorial is a key construct of the Tidal Basin. Read more ›

by Lisa

Lincoln Memorial

Lincoln Memorial

By Lisa

"In this temple..."

Lincoln Memorial

5

"In this temple, as in the hearts of the people, for whom he saved the union, the memory of Abraham Lincoln is enshrined forever", bears the inscription behind Honest Abe. And it is true, this memorial has become a kind of sacred space, especial with regard to civil rights. It is especially notable as the backdrop to MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech. Read more ›

by Lisa

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc.

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc.

By Lisa

Annual Cherry Blossom Festival

National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc.

5

3,000 cherry trees were given to the US in 1912 from Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo to honor what he hoped would be a long-lasting friendship between Japan and the US. The cherry trees are most prominently seen around the Tidal Basin and the East Potomac Park, adjacent to the National Mall. Each spring, locals and tourists flock to see these blossoms. Read more ›

by Lisa

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

By Lisa

A wall of names

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

5

The Vietnam War marks a turning point in how Americans experience apathy (about war, government, radicalism, counter-culture, lack of transparency, etc.). The main part of the memorial is made up of two gabbro walls with over 58,000 names inscribed in plain typeface and spacing, mimicking the normalcy of loss during this particular war. Read more ›

by Lisa

Tidal Basin

Tidal Basin

By Lisa

From monuments to cherry blossoms

Tidal Basin

4

This partially man-made reservoir is the focal point for many crucial landmarks and historic events in American history. Surrounding the Tidal Basin are: the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, and the George Mason Memorial. It's also the center of the cherry blossom festival each spring. Read more ›

by Lisa

Washington Monument

Washington Monument

By Lisa

First in war, first in peace...

Washington Monument

5

The Washington Monument is placed due east of the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall. It faces the Lincoln Memorial. This is one of the most picturesque parts of Washington DC. The tower was built to commemorate George Washington, the once (and first) commander-in-chief of the national army. Read more ›

by Lisa

Maine Avenue Fish Market

Maine Avenue Fish Market

By Adrienne

THE place for fresh, affordable seafood

Maine Avenue Fish Market

4

The market, which is located right by the Potomac River near downtown, consists of a cluster of different vendors. Several serve cooked seafood that's often selected and cooked right in front of you. Don't expect an upscale experience - there are a few wooden tables but no proper seating and it smells like, well, a fish market. Read more ›

by Adrienne

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Korean War Veterans Memorial

By Lisa

Lifelike fleet of soldiers

Korean War Veterans Memorial

4

The Wall of Remembrance and the Pool of Remembrance make up the circular part of the memorial. Inscribed on a plaque is the most common idea: "Our nation honors her sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met." Read more ›

by Lisa

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

By Lisa

Featuring FDR and the era he represents

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

2

The huge feats Americans experienced while FDR was president are represented through the use of water on the memorial--a single large drop for the economy crash, chaotic falls for WWII, a still pool for his death, and an array of waterfalls for a reflection on his time in office. The are also sculptures depicting the 30s and FDR. Read more ›

by Lisa

C&O Canal

C&O Canal

By Adrienne

Experience history and stunning views

C&O Canal

3

In the summer, you can frequently spot wild animals such as turtles and heron, and year-round, the canal offers lovely views of the Potomac River. The Canal starts at Georgetown, making a visit (whether for 30 minutes or three hours) convenient and worthwhile. Read more ›

by Adrienne

Torpedo Factory Art Center

Torpedo Factory Art Center

By Adrienne

Weapons factory turned artists' studio

Torpedo Factory Art Center

4

Old Town Alexandria, with its historic buildings and cobblestone streets dating from the 1700's, is well worth the metro ride into VA on the blue metro line. Besides the numerous restaurants, boutiques, and gift shops, the must-see venue is the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Read more ›

by Adrienne

National Geographic Museum

Things To Do 3 0

National Geographic Museum

By Lisa

Intimate museum on science exploration

National Geographic Museum

3

National Geographic is a beacon of science and social anthropology for all. Whether you grew up with visions of wanderlust, being a scientist, studying animals, yearning for a magnifying glass, taking photographs in untouched corners of the world, that exploration bug is manifest in this compact museum. Read more ›

by Lisa

Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery

By Lisa

U.S. Military Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery

3

Arlington Cemetery is an important American pastoral. Though it is riddled with many historic controversies, it does represent the many changes, losses, and wars the USA has already seen in its very small history. There are many ways to tour the grounds and many famous locales. The graves are sprawled in perfect lines. Read more ›

by Lisa

Newseum

Things To Do 4 0

Newseum

By Lisa

High-tech museum

Newseum

4

Newseum is an interactive museum of news and journalism between the White House and the Capitol building. A pioneer in integrating new media and the interactive into museum experiences, the Newseum helps viewers think about the content of historic news, as well as the role of contemporary news in a cultural consciousness. Read more ›

by Lisa

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

By Lisa

US official memorial to the Holocaust

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

4

The Holocaust museum is adjacent to the National Mall. There are many Holocaust memorials and museums throughout Europe and the US, but this one in DC is particularly special because of its continued efforts of education toward both memory and genocide prevention. Read more ›

by Lisa

Nationals Park

Nationals Park

By Lisa

MLB ballpark on the waterfront

Nationals Park

4

Nationals Park is one of MLB's newer ballparks, opening in 2008 on the Capitol Waterfront. Adjacent to the Navy Yard, Nationals Park is also the first LEED certified sports venue in the country. Nationals Park is well loved, to the point that when no big bidders went in for naming rights, it stayed "Nationals Park" and hasn't been bought since. Read more ›

by Lisa

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La Boum at L'Enfant Cafe

Things To Do 1 0

La Boum at L'Enfant Cafe

By Lisa

A brunch houseparty

La Boum at L'Enfant Cafe

1

Once things get started and all parties have arrived, the staff are told to shut the blinds. This is a proper (Parisian) kiki. With the blinds closed and the lights dimmed, brunch and dancing can commence in Vegas-meets-Paris fashion. This includes, of course, topless dancers, a whole lot of champagne, and prix fixed brunch eats. Read more ›

by Lisa

Art All Night

Art All Night

By Lisa

Nuit Blanche comes from Paris to DC

Art All Night

2

If you're lucky enough to be in town during mid-September, this one-night-a-year experience is an absolute must. Visual, music, media, performance, spoken word, and graffiti artists participate in this city-wide, DC arts commission. Even if you're not trying to experience Art All Night, if you're in town, you won't be able to avoid it. Read more ›

by Lisa

Scott's Run Nature Preserve

Scott's Run Nature Preserve

By Meenakshi

Don't go chasing waterfalls...or do!

Scott's Run Nature Preserve

0

Scott's Run borders the Potomac River and has a network of trails for beginner to intermediate hikers. The nature preserve is one of the few areas nearby the city that has waterfalls, so locals like to enjoy the natural scenery. Read more ›

by Meenakshi

RFK Stadium

RFK Stadium

By Lisa

Trillectro Music Festival

RFK Stadium

0

Trillectro Music Festival is an annual hip hop and dance music festival in DC. The festival has grown over its first few years, but hasn't lost homey spirit. The festival takes place in October. The venue has changed to RFK Stadium since the festival's attendance and notoriety has increased. The founders started Trillectro to break DC's insularity. Read more ›

by Lisa

Verizon Center

Things To Do 1 0

Verizon Center

By Lisa

Home of DC's sports and entertainment

Verizon Center

1

Located in Chinatown, the Verizon Center is an easily accessed venue for DC's beloved NBA (Wizards) and NHL (Capitals) teams. Beyond those two sports, the arena hosts other forms of entertainment such as large-scale concerts, ice skating, women's basketball, Georgetown basketball, WWE wrestling matches, and the like. Read more ›

by Lisa

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

By Lisa

DC's best kept (outdoor) secret

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens

2

It is rare to encounter nature just within a city in this more subtle, unmanicured fashion. Though there is a small boardwalk for visitors to encounter the marshes, most of the area is ripe with trees, plants, flowers, animals, and insects. Whether you're a birdwatcher, hiker, explorer, or the like, no visit to the Aquatic Gardens is the same. Read more ›

by Lisa

Vinofest

Vinofest

By Lisa

Spring wine and music festival

Vinofest

2

DC is a hub of international cultures blending and trending. What better way to mark this than a spring event for winos, charity, food, and music? Vinofest is an annual wine festival that takes place in early May in Storey Park in DC's No(rth)Ma(ssachusetts Ave) neighborhood. With general admission and VIP entry options, tickets sell fast. Read more ›

by Lisa

Theodore Roosevelt Island National Memorial

Theodore Roosevelt Island National Memorial

By Lisa

Memorial in the middle of the Potomac

Theodore Roosevelt Island National Memorial

1

Theodore Roosevelt Island is an 88 acre piece of land in the middle of the Potomac River. Maintained mostly as a natural park, the center of the island also has a Teddy Roosevelt Memorial, including a statue of Teddy Roosevelt as well as huge stones with some of his more famous quotes on them (about nature, which he was dogmatic to preserve). Read more ›

by Lisa

17th & L St NW

17th & L St NW

By Lisa

The High Heel Race

17th & L St NW

0

At the onset, the race had 25 drag queens running a midnight dash from JR's to Annie's (1.5 blocks), where they had to run upstairs, take a shot of Schnapps, then downstairs and back to JR's. Now, it's become so popular that the even has moved to the Tuesday before Halloween to appease the police as the neighborhood comes out to see these costumes. Read more ›

by Lisa

Kogod Courtyard

Kogod Courtyard

By Lisa

Stunning pit-stop on your art stroll

Kogod Courtyard

2

The courtyard is completely enclosed and thus available to you rain or shine. Like many museum and memorial spaces in DC, the courtyard is also free for all. A good spot for couples, families, tourists, strollers, and anyone in the vicinity. It is also used for lectures and special events, with a lineup of speakers/artists to boot. Read more ›

by Lisa

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