Explore the best activities in Washington D.C., from historical landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and U.S. Capitol to cultural hotspots like the National Gallery of Art and Kennedy Center. Immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of the nation's capital with these top 25 must-do activities.
Washington D.C. offers a wide range of activities to suit all interests, from history and politics to art and culture. Here are some top activities to consider:
Visit the National Mall:
The National Mall is home to iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol.
Explore the Smithsonian museums that line the mall, which offer free admission.
Tour the U.S. Capitol:
Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol building and learn about the legislative process.
Explore the National Museum of American History:
This museum is home to a wide range of artifacts that tell the story of America's past.
Visit the National Gallery of Art:
The National Gallery of Art houses an extensive collection of European and American art.
See the White House:
Take a tour of the White House or simply admire it from the outside.
Explore the Library of Congress:
The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world and offers tours and exhibits.
Walk Around Georgetown:
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood known for its beautiful architecture, shops, and restaurants.
Take a Cruise on the Potomac River:
See the city from a different perspective by taking a cruise on the Potomac River.
Visit the Holocaust Memorial Museum:
This museum offers a moving and educational experience about the Holocaust.
Explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture:
This museum is dedicated to documenting African American life, history, and culture.
Visit the National Zoo:
The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution and offers free admission. It is home to over 2,000 animals.
Explore the United States Botanic Garden:
This garden features beautiful displays of plants from around the world and is open to the public free of charge.
Attend a Performance at the Kennedy Center:
The Kennedy Center hosts a variety of performances, including concerts, ballet, and theater.
Visit the National Archives:
See the original Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights at the National Archives.
Explore the Tidal Basin:
The Tidal Basin is surrounded by cherry blossom trees and is especially beautiful in the spring when the trees are in bloom.
Take a Walk or Bike Ride on the C&O Canal Towpath:
The Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park offers miles of scenic towpath for walking or biking.
Visit the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial:
This memorial honors the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.
Explore the International Spy Museum:
This museum offers an interactive experience that explores the history of espionage.
Visit the National Air and Space Museum:
Learn about the history of aviation and space exploration at this popular museum.
Take a Day Trip to Mount Vernon:
Visit George Washington's Mount Vernon estate, which is located just outside of Washington D.C.
Visit the Renwick Gallery:
The Renwick Gallery is part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and features contemporary craft and decorative art.
Explore the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden:
The Hirshhorn Museum is the national museum of modern art and has an outdoor sculpture garden.
Attend a Show at Ford's Theatre:
Ford's Theatre is a working theater and also a museum that tells the story of President Abraham Lincoln's assassination.
Visit the Supreme Court:
Take a tour of the Supreme Court and learn about the judicial branch of the U.S. government.
Explore the National Geographic Museum:
The National Geographic Museum features changing exhibitions on a range of topics from around the world.
