Have you found things to do in Washington, D.C., that align with your interests? If not, this blog is a source of inspiration. There is a multitude of things to do in D.C., including cultural, entertaining, dining, drinking and outdoor options. Our ten things to do in Washington, D.C. offer an immersive experience in the capital. So, join us on this magical journey!
Things to Do in Washington DC - Overview
- 🎓Take a tour at Georgetown University, George Washington University, American University.
- 🖼️Visit National Museum of African American History and Culture, Smithsonian American Art Museum, National Museum of Natural History, National Air and Space Museum, Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden.
- 📸Tick off The Capitol, The White House, Library of Congress, The National Monument, WWII Memorial.
- 🍽️Dine in La’Shukran, Providencia, Pascual, ANJU, Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi.
- 🍺Bar hop at U Street Corridor, Columbia Heights, Dupont Circle, Georgetown, Adam's Morgan.
- 🎫Catch a show at the Kennedy Center, Ford’s Theatre, Strathmore, Atlas Performing Arts Center, Lincoln Theatre.
- 🛍️Shop at Georgetown, Downtown DC, U Street, Chevy Chase & Friendship Heights, Tysons Corner.
- 🏞️Take a hike at U.S. National Arboretum, Rock Creek Park, Malcolm X Park, Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill, Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens.
- 🎒Take part in Monuments by Moonlight Night Tour, DC Private Boat Tours, DC Ghost tours.
- 📍Visit Catacombs of Washington, D.C., National Capitol Columns, The Mansion on O Street, The Brewmaster's Castle, Riggs Library.
1 Tour University Campuses
Washington, D.C. is a major center for higher education in the United States, with many prestigious universities and colleges. Visiting the campuses is one of the valuable things to do in Washington, D.C., offering unique insights into the city’s educational landscape. These universities are significant not only for academic research but also as vital cultural hubs. For students preparing for college entrance exams or contemplating enrollment in one of the city’s institutions, this is one of the most inspiring things to do in D.C. that catalyses setting ambitious goals and encouraging hard work towards their academic and personal aspirations. Furthermore, these universities often hold diverse cultural events and exhibitions. Therefore, it is an excellent opportunity to explore and experience the vibrant cultural offerings of the city.
George Washington University is a highly respected institution worldwide. Established in 1821 and named after George Washington, it is strategically located in the heart of the nation’s capital. Its main campus is just minutes from the White House and the Lincoln Memorial, allowing visitors to easily access these world-class attractions. The city also boasts other renowned institutions, such as Georgetown University and American University. These universities are well-known for their beautiful campuses and hold frequent events and exhibitions.
For students attending a university in Washington, D.C., and visitors, our large selection of student housing in Washington, D.C., can meet every need, offering comfort, convenience, and accessibility. If you have any questions regarding housing or living arrangements, we are always here to help you.
2 Visit the Best Museums
Visiting museums is the most efficient and comprehensive way to learn about a place, making it one of the most worthwhile Washington D.C. things to do. As the museum capital of the United States, Washington’s numerous renowned museums encompass a wide array of subjects, including history, art, science, and culture. The following museums are considered the best in the city and offer the best things to do in D.C.
The National Museum of African American History and Culture 📍1400 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is dedicated to studying African American history and culture. A visit to this museum is one of the best things to do in Washington, D.C., as it offers a significant educational resource on race in the United States. Free visit with a timed entry ticket.
- Hours: Monday 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Tuesday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Thursday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Friday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
The Smithsonian American Art Museum 📍G Street Northwest &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Smithsonian American Art Museum is a renowned institution that features a wide-ranging collection of American art from the colonial period to the present day. Admission is Always Free.
- Hours: Mon-Sun 11:30 am‑7:00 pm
The National Museum of Natural History 📍10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560
The National Museum of Natural History boasts over 140 million exhibits, including the renowned Hope Diamond and a diverse array of dinosaur fossils. Visiting this museum is one of the most rewarding D.C. things to do. Admission is free.
- Hours: 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. daily
- Closed: Dec. 25 and Jan. 20
The National Air and Space Museum 📍600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560
The National Air and Space Museum is a treasure trove of historical artifacts related to aviation and spaceflight, showcasing the evolution of flight from the Wright Brothers’ pioneering flying machines to the Apollo spacecraft. Admission is free for all.
- Hours: 10:00 am to 5:30 pm
- Closed: December 25 and January 20
The Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden 📍Independence Ave SW &, 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20560
Visiting the Hirshhorn Museum is one of the most enjoyable things to do in D.C., as the architecture is a work of art. The museum’s unique circular design and sunken sculpture garden provide visitors with a serene space for reflection. The Hirshhorn Museum features the works of prominent American and European artists from the late 20th century onwards. The Sculpture Garden outside the museum shows works by renowned artists, such as Auguste Rodin’s Citizens of Calais and Yoko Ono’s Washington, D.C. Wish Tree.
- Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10 AM to 5:30 PM
- Closed: December 25 and January 20, 2025.
3 Tick off Major Attractions
The Capitol
The White House
Library of Congress
The National Monument
WWII Memorial
4 Dine in the Best Restaurants
La’Shukran
Providencia
Pascual
ANJU
Dōgon by Kwame Onwuachi
5 Bar Hopping
U Street
Columbia Heights
Dupont Circle
Adam's Morgan
Georgetown
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
6 Catch a Show
Kennedy Center
Ford’s Theatre
Strathmore
Atlas Performing Arts Center
Lincoln Theatre
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
7 Shop in DC
Georgetown
Downtown DC
U Street
Chevy Chase & Friendship Heights
Tysons Corner
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
8 Hike in the Parks
U.S. National Arboretum
Rock Creek Park
Malcolm X Park
Lincoln Park on Capitol Hill
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
9 Take Guided Tours
Monuments by Moonlight Night Tour
DC Private Boat Tours
DC Ghost tours
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
10 Discover Unusual Sites
Catacombs of Washington, D.C.
National Capitol Columns
The Mansion on O Street
The Brewmaster's Castle
Riggs Library
Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit. Ut elit tellus, luctus nec ullamcorper mattis, pulvinar dapibus leo.
Conclusion
There are so many things to do in Washington, D.C. that we are confident you have identified a preferred option. The city offers educational and inspiring experiences, including visits to Georgetown University and George Washington University and immersive experiences at the National Museum of African American History and Culture. World-famous landmarks like the White House and the National Mall are not to be missed. For a culinary journey, Washington, D.C.’s best restaurants and bars offer the finest experiences. There are also things to do in D.C. that are entertaining, such as bar hopping in the best neighborhoods, watching shows at the Kennedy Center, shopping in Georgetown, and hiking in Rock Creek Park. For a more in-depth exploration of the city’s history and culture, you can consider joining a guided tour. There are also unusual Washington D.C. things to do, including exploring unique attractions like the Catacombs and the National Capitol Columns. So, to thoroughly explore the nation’s capital, you can include these things to do in Washington, D.C., on your itinerary.
FAQ
What are the things to do in Washington, DC, for free?
There are various things to do in Washington DC that are complimentary, including activities and attractions. You can visit the Smithsonian Institution museums, the National Mall, and Union Market and participate in free summer concerts and shows.
Are there fun things to do in DC for adults?
You can find various engaging things to do in Washington DC for adults, including exploring art exhibits and galleries, boating or kayaking on the Potomac River or Tidal Lagoon, experiencing the city’s vibrant nightlife on U Street, and enjoying comedy shows at renowned venues such as DC Improv.
What are the things to do in DC for couples?
There are many things to do in Washington DC that are romantic and enjoyable for couples, including visits to popular restaurants and attractions in District Wharf and Georgetown, a trip for two on the Potomac River Cruise, the Jefferson Memorial cherry blossom trees in March to April, and Rock Creek Park for a romantic picnic.
