Top 14 Activities to Enjoy in DC

Washington, DC, captivates visitors with its limitless charm.

Home to some of America's most iconic structures, including the White House and the Library of Congress—the largest library in the world—DC's centerpiece is the National Mall, a linear park adorned with monuments like the Lincoln Memorial.

Beyond being a historical haven, DC boasts 21 Smithsonian museums that offer fascinating insights into various subjects, from Asian art to American politics. Don't miss out on hidden gems like the downtown National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, which features one of the largest bonsai collections globally.

Food lovers will be delighted here, whether you prefer vibrant food halls like the fantastic Western Market Food Hall (best visited early for fresh pastries from Bullfrog Bagels) in the Foggy Bottom area, or if you're in the mood for upscale dining—Capitol Hill is the place to go.

With so much to explore, we've curated the top experiences in Washington, DC that you shouldn't miss.

1. Spend time at the National Mall

While it's one of the most famous Washington DC attractions, its beauty is truly breathtaking. The best way to take in the stunning National Mall is by walking its 34 miles of pathways. You'll encounter 65 monuments, including the WWII Memorial, the Washington Monument (formerly the tallest freestanding structure in the world), and the Lincoln Memorial.

Don’t forget to visit some of the lesser-known monuments as well. The lovely German-American Friendship Garden, with its aromatic lavender hedges, and the Lockkeeper's House at Constitution Ave and 17th St, the oldest building on the Mall, are worth a stop. If you're feeling tired, use the DC Circulator National Mall service, which has 15 stops throughout this iconic park, with fares starting at $1 per person and free rides for children under five.

Insider tip: Be sure to pace your visit; consider going early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the crowds are lighter, and aim to see one monument per hour at most.

A key travel tip for Washington DC is to avoid the National Mall between midday and 3pm, as it tends to be crowded. Visiting during July or August means you can also steer clear of the hottest parts of the day.

2. Take a look inside the White House

To tour the White House, you must submit an application at least 21 days prior to your visit. US citizens should apply through their member of Congress, while international guests should reach out to their embassy in Washington. The complimentary 45-minute tours allow access to several rooms, including the East Wing's Red Room (decorated with ruby-red satin walls), the State Dining Room, and the China Room, which showcases the White House's china collection.

Don't worry if you can't secure a tour spot. Instead, visit Lafayette Sq on the north side of the White House to take in the stunning views of the North Lawn and the president's residence.

Tip for planning: Arrive early for your tour and expect long lines during peak times. Check the weather ahead of time and dress appropriately, as you may have to wait outside at the initial security checkpoint. Make sure to use the restroom before arriving, as facilities are unavailable once inside the White House.

3. Discover Historic Georgetown

Georgetown is the birthplace of Washington, DC, established in 1751, 40 years before the capital city itself was founded.

In 1828, George Washington commissioned the building of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal, linking the city to the wider country. Today, this historic waterway is part of the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park, where you can stroll along the waterfront, flanked by brick buildings dating back to the 1700s.

Georgetown boasts other architectural treasures such as Tudor Place, constructed in 1816 by Martha Washington's granddaughter, Martha Custis Peter, and the Old Stone House, the oldest building in Washington, DC, which dates back to 1766 and was originally a private residence. Both are open for public visits.

Side note: In June 2023, a $20 million renovation of the towpath alongside the Chesapeake and Ohio Canal was completed. Since the canal begins in Georgetown, take some time to stroll along its banks. If you have a full day, consider hiking or biking the 14-mile path that links Georgetown to Great Falls, Maryland.

4. Explore the Smithsonian Institution's museums

A quick heads-up: Washington, DC is home to 21 Smithsonian museums, so it's wise to prioritize your visits. Don't miss major attractions like the National Museum of Natural History, which features exhibits on everything from gems to dinosaurs (including a piece of mammoth flesh and a chunk of whale earwax), or the National Museum of American History. This museum offers a remarkable range of displays – where else can you find the original Star-Spangled Banner right next to Judy Garland's ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz?

Less famous museums include the Hirshhorn Museum, known for its large-scale art installations, and the National Museum of Asian Art, which contains 45,000 artifacts dating back to Neolithic times. Most of the Smithsonian museums are conveniently located near the National Mall, and admission to all is free.

Insider tip: Nearly all Smithsonian Museums on the National Mall feature two primary entrances – one facing the Mall and another toward either Independence or Constitution Avenues (depending on the museum's exact position). Tour buses typically drop off passengers at the busier Mall entrances, so consider using the less crowded alternative entrances whenever possible.

5. Discover exceptional street art

In recent years, DC has transformed into a hub for some of the globe's top street artists. Georgetown showcases incredible works like the Wave Mural on O St NW, painted by John McConnell and inspired by Hokusai's famous wave artwork, as well as the vibrant Alma Indigena on Wisconsin Avenue. This mural, created by Victor Quinonez, portrays a Wixárika Elder from Jalisco, Mexico.

In NoMa, you can spot Madsteez's contemporary rendition of a George Washington portrait on N St, just a short walk from Union Market, whose exterior showcases stunning murals. Highlights include Mr Brainwash's oversized 'Never Give Up' quote. Other excellent neighborhoods for street art are Mt Vernon (check out the corner of 5th and K Sts NW for portraits of Black leaders like Martin Luther King) and U St, where Ben's Chili Bowl restaurant not only serves great food but also displays Aniekan Udofia's murals celebrating African American icons such as abolitionist Harriet Tubman.

6. Experience the city from the water

Discover DC from the water for a fresh perspective on this stunning city. Visit Georgetown's Key Bridge Boathouse to rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard before heading over to Theodore Roosevelt Island, an 88-acre forested national memorial island.

For a dose of nostalgia, why not paddle across the Tidal Basin? This lovely reservoir nestled between the Potomac River and the Washington Channel offers stunning views of the National Mall and the Lincoln Memorial. It's also the prime location for admiring the city's cherry blossoms in March and April.

Another option is to unwind on a boat tour: one of the leading operators is City Cruises, located in the Wharf area.

Local tip: If you're exploring Washington DC with kids and they lack rowing skills, visit the Thompson Boat Center on the Capitol Riverfront, a large watersports hub offering lessons and boat rentals.

7. Enjoy a drink at a DC speakeasy

Prohibition hit DC differently than other cities. In 1920, the city's boisterous Congress members refused to surrender their alcohol easily, choosing instead to visit the city's embassies, which were considered foreign territory. This made them the only locations in America where alcohol could legally be served. With its coastal location, DC became a hub for smuggling liquor from places like the Caribbean, and nearly every neighborhood boasted its own speakeasy.

Today, many speakeasy-inspired bars celebrate that legacy, such as Left Door, which masquerades as a laundromat, the Eaton Hotel's Allegory bar, accessible through a door hidden among the library's bookshelves, and Chicken + Whisky. To enter this whiskey-centric bar, just walk through the freezer door next to the open kitchen.

8. Explore a historic house museum

While DC boasts extensive exhibits in its Smithsonian museums, for a more personal museum experience, consider one of the city's charming historic house museums.

In Georgetown, Dumbarton Oaks is a must-see for enthusiasts of Byzantine and pre-Columbian art, featuring a stunning mansion surrounded by 27 acres of beautiful gardens.

In northwest DC, the Hillwood Estate showcases Russian and French art in its opulent rooms, once owned by cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post. Whether you're a frequent visitor or just spending a weekend in DC, these smaller venues provide a chance to dive into history while avoiding the crowds.

Planning tip: These intimate, private museums typically charge an admission fee, so it's wise to check prices and guided tour schedules before your visit.

9. Reserve a free tour of the US Capitol

While securing a tour of the White House demands some foresight, anyone can easily walk in for a complimentary tour of the US Capitol Building in DC or make an online reservation. Although lines can be lengthy, they tend to move swiftly, with tours departing every 10 minutes.

Planning tip: Food and drinks, including water, are not permitted inside the Capitol Building, so be sure to hydrate before your tour.

10. Enjoy a performance at The Kennedy Center

Whether you're passionate about opera, musical theater, or Shakespeare, The Kennedy Center offers top-notch performances across all genres. This expansive performing arts venue features seven theaters and hosts over 2,000 events annually.

Planning tip: If you're a student or senior, be sure to check the box office for half-off tickets.

11. Enjoy an afternoon at the National Zoo

Spanning an impressive 163 acres right in the city, the National Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals from 400 species. From majestic big cats to fascinating reptiles, plan to dedicate at least a full morning or afternoon to explore the entire zoo.

Planning tip: Admission to the zoo is free, but you'll need a pass, so it's advisable to reserve one online in advance.

12. Take a stroll along The Wharf

For a relaxed evening filled with dinner and drinks, head to The Wharf, a hip waterfront neighborhood brimming with seafood eateries and rum cocktails. You can rent a boat, enjoy live music, or simply walk along the waterfront to savor the sunset views.

13. Catch a concert at 9:30 Club

DC boasts numerous concert venues, but 9:30 Club stands out as one of the most iconic locations in the city. A cornerstone of the DC music scene since 1980, this club has welcomed legends like Nirvana, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Public Enemy.

14. Shop along M Street

Georgetown's streets are rich in history, but they also boast a reputation for upscale shopping. From beloved bakeries like Baked and Wired and Georgetown Cupcake to high-end fashion brands such as Reformation and Sezane, M Street offers a wealth of activities and shopping options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to walk around DC at night?

Most tourist-friendly neighborhoods are well-lit and safe for nighttime strolls.

Are there any free museums or activities available in Washington, DC?

Absolutely, DC is renowned for its extensive range of free activities. The expansive Smithsonian museum system is completely free and open nearly every day of the year. Visitors can also enjoy numerous outdoor monuments and the US Capitol without charge.

What are the best transportation options in Washington, DC?

The DC Metro offers an excellent way to navigate the city without the hassle of renting a car and dealing with parking fees. When choosing your accommodation, make sure to find out the location of the nearest Metro station. Most areas are also pedestrian-friendly.

When is the ideal time to visit Washington, DC?

With the abundance of both indoor and outdoor activities available, there’s really no wrong time to visit DC. However, many travelers plan their trips to coincide with the beautiful cherry blossom bloom from late March to early April.

Continue planning your visit to Washington, DC:

Discover the ideal times to visit Navigating DC is simpler than you might think – here’s how These amazing experiences are completely free Explore nature and delve into history with these day trips