The 35 Best Things To Do In Washington, D.C.

There’s no escaping that Washington, D.C. is steeped in history. From the White House to the Capitol Building to all of the monuments on the National Mall, you could easily spend your entire time in the city hopping from one historic site to another. But your trip to the district doesn’t need to feel reminiscent of your high school civics class field trip. Sticking to the Mall really just scratches the surface of all the city has to offer; it's so much more than its famous tourist sites.

D.C.'s vibrant neighborhoods and livability are what makes it popular with everyone from young people to retirees. Visitors will be rewarded by digging beneath the city's buttoned-up reputation. In recent years its food scene has reached exciting new heights, with a whole new wave of eateries and cocktail bars to entice the senses. A swath of new museums openings—both Smithsonians and otherwise—have added to the city’s already robust culture scene. Walkable and bikeable, D.C. is a decidedly green city. If you haven't been to the nation's capitol in a while, prepare to be struck by its charm, culture, and history.

Traveling to D.C.? Our favorite things to do in Washington, D.C. are sure to fill your itinerary.

Dive Into History

See the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights

When was the last time you took a good long look at these essential American documents? If the answer is ‘in high school,’ then perhaps it’s time for a revisit. And during a visit to D.C., that means being able to see the real things, in person, up close. Head to the National Archives on the National Mall to study—or just marvel at—the influential historic documents on display in the building’s rotunda.

Visit Frederick Douglass’s House

Cedar Hill, the D.C. home where Frederick Douglass spent the last 17 years of his life, just reopened to the public following a multi-year restoration project. Begin your visit at the National Historic Site’s visitor center and take in the twenty-minute introductory film on Douglass and his time in D.C., before joining a guided-tour of the home. A visit to Cedar Hill is a journey in further understanding one of the country’s most influential orators, writers, and intellectuals.

Take a Walking Tour of Georgetown 

The historic and unabashedly upscale neighborhood of Georgetown is charming for window shopping or garden gawking, but it’s also an ideal area of the city to do a little walking tour that dives into some fascinating social history. The neighborhood has been called home by an impressive and varied rolodex of figures, including Jaqueline and John Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor, Roald Dahl, Julia Childs, and Francis Scott Key, among many others. Explore by foot on your own or opt for a guided tour for added details and nuance.

Pay Your Respects at Arlington National Cemetery

Solemn and serene Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for more than 400,000 veterans and their families. The cemetery, just over the river in Virginia, is an expanse of 639 hallowed acres and the ANC Explorer allows visitors to locate graves, notable sites, and take self-guided walking tours to places including the tomb of the Unknown Soldier as well as the final resting place of President John F. Kennedy.

Explore Capitol Hill

The symbol of American democracy in one building, a visit to D.C. is not complete without a stop at the Capitol. You can walk around the building’s grounds, which were designed by Frederick Law Olmstead, the landscape architect behind New York’s Central Park, or bask in its shadow at the U.S. Botanical Garden. But to really explore the Capitol fully, opt for a trip inside. Tours of the Capitol building are free and guides lead you through the Crypt, Rotunda, and the Statuary Hall. While on Capitol Hill, walk over to the nearby Library of Congress and Supreme Court and marvel at their architectural and symbolic weight.

Experience the Culture

Spend the Day Museum Hopping

Thanks to the Smithsonian Institution, and its 16 museums and galleries in D.C., you can spend days, weeks, or even months, exploring the city’s museums without spending a dime. There are really no shortage of options and something for all ages. No visit is complete without a stop at the National Portrait Gallery to see the iconic Presidents and First Ladies galleries, or the National Museum of American History where you can see the Star-Spangled Banner, the Ruby Slippers, and Julia Childs’ kitchen among many more key American artifacts. Other Smithsonian highlights include the National Air + Space Museum which recently reopened following a long closure to much acclaim (reserved free, timed entry passes in advance), the National Museum of Asian Art which also just unveiled newly refreshed galleries and is celebrating its centenary year, and the National Museum of African American History & Culture which continues to leave visitors in awe.

Explore the City’s Mural Scene

Washington is home to a booming street art scene and its murals are becoming as recognizable a characteristic of the city as the monuments lining the mall. Look out for them as you explore the district, or better yet, seek them out with a self-guided tour. MuralsDC, and organization that cares for over 150 of the city’s public artworks, has great digital resources for mapping out your exploration.

See the Latest in Contemporary Art 

When visitors think of D.C.’s museums, the heavily 19th and 20th century collections of the Portrait Gallery, the National Gallery of Art, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum may come to mind. But the city is also home to some incredible modern and contemporary art museums. The Renwick Gallery, located a stone’s throw from the White House, is a compact museum in a former mansion and exhibits modern craft and decorative arts. The Hirshhorn Museum, located just off the National Mall, is known as much for its eye-catching rounded building as it is for its collection, draws in crowds for shows of cult-followed contemporary artists like Yayoi Kusama and Laurie Anderson. The museum’s sculpture garden, with works by Yoko Ono, Auguste Rodin and others, is an obligatory part of any visit. The city’s newest museum, the Rubell Museum, which is housed in a former public school, showcases bold new works that speak with contemporary issues. 

Take in a Show at the Kennedy Center

A world-class center for the arts, and a living monument to President Kennedy, the Kennedy Center is the place in D.C. to catch a show, see a concert, or even screen an outdoor movie. With multiple stages and halls, there are events most every night from musical theater to opera to jazz and dance. Before or after any performance, make a point to ride the elevator up to the roof deck which offers stellar views of the city, grab a bite at the KC Cafe, and tour the new permanent exhibition about JFK and his important and influential support of the arts. 

Embrace Being a Tourist

See the Monuments at Night

Yes, you will probably want to take in the monuments during the daytime too, but there isn’t anything that can compare to seeing them at night when you’ll have more of the National Mall to yourself. Take advantage of the moonlight to see the monuments in a different light (literally). Make sure to climb the steps of the Lincoln Memorial and take in a view of the expanse of the National Mall from there.

Step Inside America’s Most Famous House

Call it cliché, but a visit to the White House does not disappoint. You can get a close-up view from Lafayette Square or further away from Constitution Avenue while museum hopping along the National Mall. But, if you really want to take it all in, there’s nothing like going on a tour of the inside. Doing so requires a little advanced planning; while tours are free, U.S. citizens will need to contact your representative a minimum of 21-days before your intended visit. Non-citizens should contact their embassies.

Take in a Bird’s-Eye View of the City

The city looks pretty stunning from up high thanks to the district’s building restrictions which mandate that nothing can be built higher than the Washington Monument. The result is sweeping views in every direction and there are quite a few places that make for ideal vantage points. The most iconic spot is from the top of the Washington Monument. A visit to the top is free, although you will need to reserve ahead of time. An elevator will carry you 555 feet up to the observation deck. 

Stroll Around the Tidal Basin

D.C. is a city known for its spring cherry blossoms and nowhere in the city is more closely associated with the delicate pink and white flowers than the Tidal Basin. It’s for good reason, too, as the Tidal Basin was where the first cherry trees were planted over a century ago when the mayor of Tokyo, Yukio Ozaki gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the city in 1912. Today the area is home to nearly 4,000 of the trees and many line the Tidal Basin which is a scenic walk no matter the time of year. Stroll around the basin to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial and keep walking to see the Japanese Pagoda, Japanese Lantern, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

Paddle the Potomac

A perfect accompaniment to a stroll around the Tidal Basin, or an alternative way to explore the area with kids, is renting a paddle boat along the Tidal Basin. For something a little more strenuous, there are several options to hop in a kayak to go a little further into the Potomac. The organization Boating in DC is a good place to visit to choose your vessel.

Visit George Washington’s Home

While not technically in D.C., George Washington’s Mount Vernon is so close it deserves a spot on this list. Just beyond beautiful Old Town Alexandria across the Virginia boarder, Washington’s beloved estate is more welcoming than imposing. Situated majestically over the Potomac River and furnished with pieces that recreate life when the First President called it home, a visit to Mount Vernon is worth a morning or afternoon diversion from D.C. 

Take a Stealthy Spy Tour

People say D.C. is crawling with spies. Whether that’s true or not, it’s a topic that continues to inspire intrigue. The kid-friendly and family-favorite International Spy Museum is a good place to ponder the life and role of a spy, and the museum’s exhibits on covert actions, making sense of secrets, and stealing secrets, will keep everyone in the family, regardless of age, hooked. For a deeper dive, make an appointment to visit the CIA Museum. Although a little bit out of town, it’s an experience for those looking for something, shall we say, stealthier.

Try Being a Local

Browse the Local Farmer’s Markets

The city’s close proximity to the farms of Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, and West Virginia means its farmers markets are always brimming with produce and handmade items. Eastern Market in Capitol Hill runs year-round and has a historic indoor covered area that’s great to stop in for a bite to eat. A Sunday market in Dupont Circle and a seasonal market in front of the White House draw in local vendors as well as farms.

Cheer on the Nationals

The Washington National’s last World Series win was only a few years ago and since then Nats Fever has been running high in the district. Show up ahead of any game day and buy a ticket (beginning around $18) and join the locals in rooting on the home team. If they don’t win, it’s a shame, but it, like anything, is about the experience.

See the Country’s Oldest Outdoor Fish Market

The Wharf might be D.C.’s newest neighborhood with its sky-high glass restaurants and hotels, but it’s also home to the city’s historic Municipal Fish Market. Indeed, the market is the oldest continuously-operating open-air fish market in the United States and dates back to 1805. Today it’s a local spot for buying freshly caught fish and crab. The Jessie Taylor Seafood stall also makes a great spot to grab a cooked lunch to go.

Sip Local Brews and Spirits

Ivy City, D.C.’s Northeast neighborhood that was largely industrial up until a few years ago, is a microcosm of cool breweries and distilleries to check out. Other Half Brewing has a wide selection of beers and has a covered patio where you can come hang out, play a board game, or order a pizza. For spirits, check out the Italian herbal liqueurs at Don Ciccio & Figli or the whiskies at District Made Spirits.

Grab a Bite at a Historic Market

Another former industrial zone turned hip neighborhood, NoMa lies in the shadow of Union Station, and is one of the fastest growing areas in the city. Its central feature, the historic Union Market is, as a result, one of the hippest places to grab a casual meal thanks to the conversion of an old market into a central food hall of over 35 vendors offering terrific and diverse fast-casual options. Come for a coffee or hand-made chocolates or for a full meal. The streets surrounding the market are a mix of still-used wholesale businesses and new businesses including a micro-bakery with mouth-watering loaves, and La Cosecha, a contemporary Latin American food hall.

Find the City's Greener Side

Explore the City’s Parks and Gardens

D.C. has no shortage of green space which provide a welcome despite from days hitting the pavement. Make time for a picnic at spots like Lincoln Park and Meridian Hill Park, or a walk through the wooded and expansive Rock Creek Park. Take in some quiet reprieve at semi-secret gardens like the flower-filled Lady Bird Johnson Park, the Enid A. Haupt Garden behind the Smithsonian Castle on the National Mall, and Bishop’s Garden tucked away by the National Cathedral.

Wander Around a Grand Estate

Marjorie Merriweather Post, the heiress of Post Cereals and the original owner of Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Florida, was the proud inhabitant of an opulent estate in the north of D.C. That estate, Hillwood, is now open to the public and operates as a house museum (with impressive collections of art, furniture, and antiques) and magnificent manicured gardens. Hillwood is one of the more hidden gems in D.C., and you could spend half a day whiling away the time outside on the grounds or basking in the sun at Hillwood’s café.

Bike the Mount Vernon Trail

As a super bike-friendly city, D.C. makes it possible to start in the capital and peddle your way all the way to George Washington’s Mount Vernon. It’s a great way to take in the surrounding landscape and make a journey out of an obligatory visit to the historic site. Start in the city and hop on a Capital Bikeshare or even try renting a bike for the day. The ten-mile scenic route winds though woods and skirts the Potomac.

Go for a Hike

Despite being a big city, D.C. has easy access to nature, and not just city parks. The historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal is one of the most accessible spots to get out into nature from the district. A multi-year restoration project revitalized the first mile of the canal which makes for a leisurely and lovely stroll through Georgetown. Stick to a short walk or make a day of it and keep going: The canal stretches for almost 185 miles. 

Admire the Gardens at Dumbarton Oaks

Dumbarton Oaks is an oasis in the city. The 53-acre property and Harvard University research institute is located at the highest point in Georgetown and boasts grounds worthy of a day’s wander. Meticulously cultivated to feature flowering trees and plants throughout the year, there are several spots not to be missed, perhaps most notably, Cherry Hill, located on a remote slope of the gardens and awash in cherry trees. Don’t miss the Prunus Walk (for flowering plum trees) and Forsythia Dell, as well. Don’t leave before stepping inside Dumbarton Oak’s museum to explore the rich collections of pre-Colombian art and artifacts as well as its famous music room.

Peddle Around the U.S. National Arboretum

Located in the northeast corner of the city, the U.S. National Arboretum is a gorgeous expanse of 446-acres and 9.5 miles of roadways. While you can drive through the grounds, opt for exploring by bike, and hop on one of the Capital Bikeshares which are docked at the R Street entrance. The Arboretum is home to cultivated gardens, wild meadows, a bonsai collection, forests, and the original Corinthian columns that once graced the Capitol Building. The Arboretum’s free app makes it easy to navigate the grounds and helps with identifying trees and flowers. 

Sip and Dine

Treat Yourself to an Award-Winning Meal

In recent years, D.C.’s food scene has grown to include restaurants and bistros that far surpass the city’s meat and potatoes reputation. Treat yourself to a meal you won’t forget at gems like Oyster Oyster, whose chef won a 2023 James Beard Award, the Michelin-starred Gravitas which is housed in an industrial-chic building, an opulent tasting menu at the modern American Blue Duck Tavern, or a culinarily creative journey to the middle east at ilili. 

Have a Romantic Meal

Date nights always feels a little more special when you’re on vacation. Book yourself a table (preferably well in advance!) at the intimate France-comes-to-Georgetown Lutèce. The petite neo-bistro, with a robust natural wine list, is a welcome antidote to the large-scale restaurants that are ubiquitous in the district, and one of the city’s most romantic spots. More traditional in atmosphere is the hidden gem, The Greenhouse, a restaurant in the historic Jefferson Hotel with white tablecloth clad private dining nooks. 

Say Cheers at a Rooftop Bar

D.C. is known for its rooftop bars which offer sweeping views of the city, some much needed breezes from the city’s notorious humidity, and a relaxed atmosphere. Top of the Gate at the Watergate Hotel offers expansive views of the Potomac, the Kennedy Center, and Georgetown and is one of the city’s most iconic rooftop bars in the city. Moonraker, the hip, big-city energy rooftop restaurant at the Pendry Hotel offers stunning views of the Wharf, the marina, the Potomac, and monuments. Downtown, you’ll find Lucha Rosa, which shakes up Mexican-inspired cocktails in a colorful setting, and Hedy’s, an intimate rooftop with views of Thomas Circle.

Enjoy a Nightcap

The city's craft cocktail scene has exploded at the same rate as its culinary world. Grab a drink at one of D.C.'s most renowned after-dinner spots, Allegory, a speak-easy style bar tucked away in the Eaton Hotel. Allegory was recently named one of the 50 best bars in North America so snagging a seat can be a challenge. Equally as intriguing are spots like the hip Jane Jane and the gin-focused The Wells.

Sleep in an Iconic Building

Get Some Shut Eye in a Former Bank

The towering building that was once the Riggs National Bank is now one of the capital’s most stylish boutique hotels, known simply as the Riggs. With teller windows still intact, original marble details, and spacious interiors, the Riggs has one of the most beautiful and elegant restaurants in the district and boasts a popular local-favorite bar housed in the former bank’s subterranean vault. If you’re feeling particularly indulgent, reserve the Ida McKinley suite, which is forever decorated in D.C. cherry blossom pink.

Stay in America's More Infamous Hotels

Few hotels conjure so much history—and scandal—as The Watergate. Best known as the site of the 1972 White House break-in that led to the toppling of President Nixon, the Watergate is a monument of midcentury modern architecture and remains one of the city’s most well-known and luxurious hotels. Even if you’re not staying the night, it’s worth popping in for a peek at the famous place. If it’s not occupied by an overnight guest, the concierge offers tours of ‘The Scandal Room,’ the legendary room where it all went down, which is preserved with original paraphernalia.

Check into a Former Post Office

The 1892 Old Post Office of D.C. is one of the city’s most opulent buildings and the tallest, after the Washington Monument. From its clocktower, which is open every day to visitors, to its glass-roofed interior courtyard, it is a site to behold. Surprisingly, the building only served as a post office for a relatively short time before falling into disrepair. Over the decades the Old Post Office served as a mixed-use building of offices and a food court. In recent years the building was restored to its former glory and today is the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel. Spacious, historically interesting, and flawless in its décor and design, a stay here is a trip back in history with all the comforts of a five-star hotel. Located on Pennsylvania Avenue, the location cannot be beat for exploring the city and the National Mall. Complete with its standout restaurant, The Bazaar, by celebrity chef and humanitarian José Andrés, as well as a private rare whiskey tasting room, there’s no denying this is the city’s top shelf accommodation.

Sleep Where the Term “Lobbying” was Coined

One of Washington’s most historic hotels, The Willard has been in operation for over two hundred years. It was here, in 1869, that then President Ulysses S. Grant popularized the term “lobbying.” Legend has it that Grant developed the term for the people who would approach him with specific interest needs while he was trying to enjoy a cigar and brandy in the hotel’s lobby. In addition to Grant and lobbyists, over its long history the Willard has played host to numerous politicians, dignitaries, and celebrities. A recent reimagining of its interiors has breathed new life into the building, especially its renowned Peacock Alley which has been serving Afternoon Tea since the 1920s.