Best Things to do in Washington DC

So, you’re headed to Washington, DC? Lucky you! Whether you’re there for a weekend getaway, a history binge, or just want to feel the power of the capital city vibes, DC delivers. This city is packed with iconic spots, free things to do (shoutout to the Smithsonians), and enough cool facts to make the group chat jealous.

We’re breaking down the best things to do in Washington, DC. From those bucket list landmarks to the underrated museum moments that deserve a spot on your itinerary. Still searching more to do in the nation’s capital?

Iconic Landmarks

If you don’t leave DC with at least five photos in front of historic buildings and towering monuments, did you even go? The city’s full of spots you’ve seen in movies, on postcards, and probably in your high school textbooks. But trust us, seeing them in person is that much better.

💡Fun fact: Washington, D.C. wasn’t originally meant to be the U.S. capital. Now it’s basically the backdrop of American history, with architecture and monuments that exude that character energy all day long.

Visit the White House

Okay, you can’t just walk in, but you can schedule a tour. Just request one through your Member of Congress weeks in advance. Even if you’re just seeing it from the outside, it’s a surreal moment.

💡Fun fact: George Washington never lived in the White House!

• Location: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
• Best time to visit: Early morning (8–9 a.m.) or late afternoon (4–5 p.m.)
• Cost: Free (tours by advance request)
• Good for: Politics and history lovers.

Tour the Capitol Building

The U.S. Capitol is more than just the place where laws are made, it’s a stunning piece of architecture and a living, breathing part of history.

Guided tours give you access to the rotunda, historic chambers, and all the behind-the-scenes magic. Even if politics isn’t your thing, it’s hard not to be impressed.

• Location: Eastern end of the National Mall
• Best time to visit: Spring (cherry blossoms) or at sunset
• Cost: Free (advance booking for tours)
• Good for: Fans of government and architecture.

Admire the Lincoln Memorial

You’ve definitely seen the steps. But when you’re actually there, standing in front of a massive statue of Lincoln, surrounded by his words etched in stone, it hits you.

💡Fun fact: There was a typo in one of the inscriptions! "FUTURE" was once spelled "EUTURE." It’s been fixed now, but can you imagine being the one who made that mistake 😭

• Location: 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW
• Best time to visit: Dawn or dusk
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Quiet reflection and photography.

Discover the Washington Monument

That tall, skinny building you can see from basically everywhere is the Washington Monument, and yes, it’s an obelisk.

You can ride an elevator to the top for panoramic views that honestly make you feel like you’re in a movie.

💡Fun fact: The Washington Monument is the tallest obelisk in the world at 555 feet, 5 1/8 inches.

• Location: Center of the National Mall
• Best time to visit: Spring (cherry blossoms) or sunset
• Cost: Free (timed-entry ticket required)
• Good for: Panoramic city views.

Walk through the National Mall

No, not the shopping kind. This “mall” is a massive green stretch with monuments, memorials, and museums sprinkled all along the way. It’s the place to walk, people-watch, and snap photos. And it’s all free! Major win.

• Location: From Lincoln Memorial to U.S. Capitol
• Best time to visit: Early morning or early evening
• Cost: Free (some sites require passes)
• Good for: Outdoor walks and events.

Museums and Galleries

If you’re the kind of person who needs a little AC and a lot of culture between sightseeing sprints, DC’s museum scene will be your happy place.

💡Fun fact: The city is home to over 70 museums, including unique ones like the International Spy Museum. Plus, most of them are free!

Let’s get into the good stuff:

Explore the Smithsonian Institution

The Smithsonian isn't just one museum, it's an entire empire of knowledge.

💡Fun fact: The Smithsonian is the world’s largest museum complex, and it’s completely free to explore.

You can bounce between natural history, air and space, African American history and culture, American art, you name it. Plus, this museum is free!

• Location: Along the National Mall
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon; off-peak Jan–mid Mar
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Families and museum enthusiasts.

Visit the National Gallery of Art

If you want to feel classy (or just take a break in a beautiful building), the National Gallery is your spot. Think Da Vinci, Monet, and rooms full of masterpieces that are somehow calming and inspiring all at once. Plus, the rotating exhibits keep things fresh, so even locals love to pop back in.

• Location: National Mall between 3rd–9th Sts NW
• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings in spring or fall
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Art and history buffs.

Experience the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

This museum is a total crowd-pleaser, especially if you’ve got kids or just really love planes and space fun.

Touch moon rocks, learn about astronauts, see real spacecraft. It’s the kind of place where “wow” is your default reaction.

• Location: 600 Independence Ave SW
• Best time to visit: Early weekday mornings
• Cost: Free (IMAX/exhibits extra)
• Good for: Science and aviation fans.

Learn at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

A visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is heavy, but absolutely important. It’s a powerful, sobering experience that walks you through history with care, detail, and humanity. Plan ahead to get tickets and take your time here.

• Location: 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW
• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings
• Cost: Free (timed passes peak season)
• Good for: History and human rights learners.

Discover the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture

This one is a must. From the music and fashion to the fight for civil rights and beyond, this museum celebrates Black excellence and tells essential stories.

The architecture alone is amazing, and once you’re inside, you’ll want to spend hours taking it all in.

• Location: 1400 Constitution Ave NW
• Best time to visit: Early weekday mornings, esp. Feb
• Cost: Free (timed passes required)
• Good for: Cultural and heritage insights.

Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History brings dino bones, glittering gems, and the famous Hope Diamond. This museum is a blast from prehistoric past to present-day science.

There’s always something to ooh and aah at, whether you're seven or seventy. And again, yes, it’s free.

• Location: 10th St & Constitution Ave NW
• Best time to visit: Weekday mornings
• Cost: Free (special exhibits extra)
• Good for: Science families and fossil fans.

Explore the National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum

These two share a building. One side is all about faces that shaped history; the other is bursting with creativity and expression. Both make you want to linger and soak up the history and knowledge.

• Location: 8th & F Sts NW
• Best time to visit: Weekday afternoons
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Portrait and art lovers.

Visit the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

At Hirshhorn, modern art gets its moment here. It’s weird and wonderful in the best way. Giant sculptures, immersive exhibits, and abstract pieces that’ll have you saying, “Wait… is this art?”

It’s the edgy little sibling of the DC museum scene, and we love it!

• Location: Independence Ave & 7th St SW
• Best time to visit: Spring or fall
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Modern art enthusiasts.

Outdoor Activities

Don’t let the whole “city” thing fool you, Washington, DC has plenty of green space to stretch your legs, soak in some sun, and maybe even stop for a picnic.

From waterfront views to peaceful parks, there’s no shortage of spots to wander and recharge.

💡Fun fact: DC actually gets more rain than Seattle on average. So, pack an umbrella just in case!

Stroll around the Tidal Basin

If you’re in town during cherry blossom season, Tidal Basin is the place to be. The pink blooms around the water are gorgeous. Even outside of spring, the Tidal Basin is a peaceful spot to walk, rent a paddle boat, or just relax under the trees.

💡Fun fact: Those cherry trees were a lovely gift from Japan back in 1912.

• Location: Between Potomac River and Washington Channel
• Best time to visit: Late Mar–early Apr (cherry blossoms)
• Cost: Free (paddle boats $38–$40)
• Good for: Scenic strolls and blooms.

Relax at Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park is basically DC’s peaceful forest within-a-city.

Think hiking trails, picnic areas, horseback riding, and even a planetarium if you’re feeling up to some additional exploration!

• Location: Western half of D.C.
• Best time to visit: Spring or fall
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Hiking and biking.

Visit the United States Botanic Garden

The botanic garden feels like a relaxing, floral escape. Right by the Capitol, the Botanic Garden has everything from lush tropical plants to seasonal exhibits that make every visit feel fresh.

Whether you’re into orchids or just need a break from your walking tour, it’s a calm, leafy escape.

• Location: 100 Maryland Ave SW
• Best time to visit: Spring or summer
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Plant and garden lovers.

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

A little off the beaten path, the National Arboretum is full of modern floral masterpieces.

Don’t miss the Bonsai Museum tucked inside. The museum’s collection started back in 1973 with 53 bonsai trees gifted from Japan to celebrate the United States Bicentennial. It’s one of the most peaceful places in the city.

• Location: 3501 New York Ave NE
• Best time to visit: Spring or fall
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Nature photography and walks.

Local Culture and Entertainment

DC is packed with local flavor, international flair, and an amazing nightlife scene. Whether you're catching a live show or hopping around buzzy food spots, there’s something happening almost every night of the week.

💡Fun fact: The city has over 170 embassies and international cultural centers.

See a show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

One of the best places to catch a show, the Kennedy Center has everything from ballet and opera to jazz, theater, and spoken word.

You can grab tickets for big-name performances or check out the free Millennium Stage shows.

• Location: 2700 F St NW
• Best time to visit: Summer (outdoor shows)
• Cost: Free daily shows (ticketed events vary)
• Good for: Performing arts fans.

Explore Union Market

Union Market is one of those places where you go in for a quick bite and end up staying for hours. It’s part food hall, part trendy hangout, part shopping destination.

Expect everything from tacos and ramen to handmade jewelry and vintage records. The vibes and food are excellent!

• Location: Northeast D.C.
• Best time to visit: Sat/Sun mornings
• Cost: Free entry (food extra)
• Good for: Foodies and market-goers.

Visit the 9:30 Club

If you’re into live music that doesn’t feel overly polished, 9:30 Club is your spot. It’s an iconic spot for alternative and indie artists, with low ceilings, loudspeakers, and the kind of energy you only get in a venue that’s seen it all!

• Location: U Street Corridor, NW
• Best time to visit: Evenings (check schedule)
• Cost: $20–$50 per show
• Good for: Live music and nightlife.

Enjoy a game at Nationals Park

Whether you’re a baseball fan or just here for the snacks and sunshine, Nationals Park is a solid daytime or evening plan.

During baseball season, the energy is electric, plus there are fireworks nights, themed events, and local food vendors that go way beyond standard stadium fare.

💡Fun fact: The Nationals used to be the Montreal Expos—our hometown’s (former) baseball team.

• Location: Navy Yard, SE
• Best time to visit: Apr–Oct (baseball season)
• Cost: From $15 per ticket
• Good for: Sports fans and families.

Historic Sites and Memorials

DC is home to some serious history, and it doesn’t hold back when it comes to honoring it!

These spots are meaningful, educational, and often surprisingly beautiful. Bonus: you’ll leave with fun facts and a refreshed sense of perspective.

💡Fun fact: The city’s design was inspired by classic European architecture, and thanks to the Height of Buildings Act of 1910, there are no skyscrapers.

Visit Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is quiet, solemn, and deeply powerful. Whether you’re watching the changing of the guard or walking past rows of headstones, this place sticks with you.

• Location: Arlington, VA
• Best time to visit: Spring or fall
• Cost: Free (tours may cost)
• Good for: Reflective history visits.

Discover the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is extremely important. A towering statue of Dr. King stands surrounded by some of his most powerful quotes, carved into stone. It’s a place for reflection, inspiration, and a few deep breaths.

• Location: Southwest D.C.
• Best time to visit: Spring or early fall
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Civil rights inspiration.

Explore the Vietnam Veterans and Korean War Veterans Memorials

Set along the National Mall, these memorials are simple in design but heavy in emotion. The etched names, life-sized statues, and thoughtful layout tell stories that stay with you. They’re the kind of places where silence feels right.

• Location: National Mall, NW
• Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon
• Cost: Free
• Good for: Quiet remembrance.

Visit the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Head over to Anacostia to tour the home of Frederick Douglass, abolitionist, orator, and force of a human being. His home is preserved beautifully, and it offers an up-close look at his personal life and activism.

• Location: Anacostia, SE
• Best time to visit: Tue/Wed/Sat tours (Apr–Oct)
• Cost: $1 tour fee (grounds free)
• Good for: African American history.

Unique Neighborhoods

DC’s neighborhoods each have their own energy, and they’re all worth checking out. Whether you’re after cobblestone charm, buzzy nightlife, or international eats, there’s a pocket of the city that fits your mood. The best way to experience the city is to hop around and find your own favorites.

Explore Georgetown

Georgetown is like stepping into a Pinterest board, but with better coffee and great people-watching. Think waterfront strolls, pastel rowhouses, local boutiques, and some seriously good dining. M Street is the go-to for shopping, and the historic canal walk is perfect when you need a quiet moment.

• Location: NW D.C.
• Best time to visit: Spring or fall
• Cost: Free to explore (shopping extra)
• Good for: Shopping and dining.

Walk through Capitol Hill

Capitol Hill isn’t just home to Congress, it’s also full of gorgeous streets, historic architecture, and some of the city’s best local markets. Check out Eastern Market for fresh produce and handmade goods, or take a walk around the neighborhood to feel that old-school DC charm.

• Location: Heart of D.C.
• Best time to visit: Spring or fall
• Cost: Free (some tours book ahead)
• Good for: Politics and architecture.

Discover Adams Morgan

This neighborhood knows how to stay up late. Adams Morgan is where the music’s always playing and the food scene is full of global flavor. It’s quirky, colorful, and full of character, perfect if you’re in the mood for a little dancing, vintage shopping, or late-night dumplings.

• Location: NW D.C.
• Best time to visit: Evenings and weekends
• Cost: Free to roam (drinks extra)
• Good for: Nightlife and culture.

Plan Your Visit

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your time in Washington, DC. A little planning goes a long way — here’s what to keep in mind:

• Take advantage of free activities
  Many top attractions like the Smithsonian museums, the National Mall, and city festivals are completely free to visit.
• Make it family-friendly
  The National Zoo, paddle boats, gardens, and hands-on museums make DC great for kids and easy for families to enjoy.
• Use easy transportation
  The Metro is clean and reliable, bike shares are everywhere, and most major sights are walkable. Grab a SmarTrip card and a transit app before you go.
• Explore beyond downtown for food
  DC’s food scene goes far beyond the Mall — try different neighborhoods for local favorites, global eats, and hidden gems.
• Pick the right place to stay
  Stay near the National Mall for easy access to landmarks, or choose neighborhoods like Dupont Circle for a more local feel.
• Plan around the seasons
  Spring brings cherry blossoms (and crowds), summer is lively, fall is crisp and quieter, and winter is calm but still worth exploring.
• Leave room for day trips
  Have an extra day? Visit nearby spots like Mount Vernon, Old Town Alexandria, or Annapolis for history and charm outside the city.

Reflect on Your Journey

There’s just something about Washington, DC. Whether you spent your time museum-hopping, monument-gazing, or just soaking it all in, this city knows how to leave a mark. Before you go, check out our shows in Washington DC for a night of unforgettable entertainment, because you deserve to wrap up your trip with a little sparkle!