The 22 BEST Things To Do In Washington, D C + 7 Things To AVOID!
Explore the iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and vibrant neighborhoods of Washington D.C. From the historic National Mall to the bustling Wharf, this collection offers an unforgettable journey through American history and culture.
National Mall
The National Mall is home to some of America's most famous landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the US Capitol.
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is impressive during the day, but breathtaking at night, offering a peaceful and photogenic spot in the city.
Washington Monument
The Washington Monument is one of the most famous landmarks located on the National Mall.
US capital
The US Capitol building houses Congress and has witnessed some of the nation's most significant moments; free guided tours are available.
reflecting pool
The reflecting pool is one of the best photo spots, especially at sunrise when you can beat the crowds and get stunning views of the Lincoln Memorial.
Smithsonian museums
The Smithsonian museums are world-class museums in Washington D.C. that are absolutely free to visit.
Smithsonian institution
The Smithsonian Institution consists of 21 museums and galleries plus the National Zoo.
National Zoo
The National Zoo is part of the Smithsonian Institution.
national museum of natural history
The National Museum of Natural History is home to the Hope Diamond, giant dinosaur fossils, and an incredible Butterfly Pavilion.
Hope Diamond
The Hope Diamond is located in the National Museum of Natural History.
National Air and Space Museum
The National Air and Space Museum contains the Wright brothers plane and Neil Armstrong's spacesuit.
Wright brothers plane
The Wright brothers plane can be seen at the National Air and Space Museum.
Neil Armstrong spacit
Neil Armstrong's spacesuit can be seen at the National Air and Space Museum.
Smithsonian American Art Museum
The Smithsonian American Art Museum, along with the National Portrait Gallery, is a hidden gem for art and history lovers.
National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery, along with the Smithsonian American Art Museum, is a hidden gem for art and history lovers.
national museum of African-American history and culture
The National Museum of African-American History and Culture is a must-visit for powerful storytelling and exhibits on African-American history.
Georgetown
Georgetown is one of DC's most charming neighborhoods with cobblestone streets, Waterfront views, and some of the best local restaurants.
M Street
M Street in Georgetown is a place to walk along for shopping.
Georgetown Cupcake
Georgetown Cupcake is a famous cupcake shop in Georgetown.
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Georgetown Waterfront Park is a scenic park that provides a peaceful escape from the city.
Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world and one of the most beautiful buildings in DC, featuring ornate ceilings and marble staircases.
Warf District
The Warf District offers Waterfront views, great food, and live music with trendy restaurants and rooftop bars.
salt line
The Salt Line is a restaurant in the Warf District known for its seafood.
Warf Marina
Warf Marina offers a place to grab a drink and watch the sunset.
Korean War Memorial
The Korean War Memorial is near the Lincoln Memorial, with nighttime reflections in the water making for a powerful experience.
Vietnam War memorials
The Vietnam War Memorial is near the Lincoln Memorial, with nighttime reflections in the water making for a powerful experience.
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is the final resting place for over 400,000 service members, including President John F. Kennedy.
John F Kennedy Grave
The grave site of John F. Kennedy, featuring the Eternal Flame, is located in Arlington National Cemetery.
Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
The Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery is a precise and moving ceremony.
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum is an interactive and immersive museum packed with real-life Espionage history, perfect for families and history buffs.
Title Basin
The Title Basin is a Scenic Waterfront area lined with some of DC's most breathtaking landmarks.
Jefferson Memorial
The Jefferson Memorial is a stunning tribute to one of America's founding fathers, with a dome that mirrors the pantheon in Rome, located in the Title Basin.
Supreme Court of the United States
The Supreme Court of the United States has been the stage for some of the most important legal decisions in American history and visitors can attend free lectures.
Eastern Market
Eastern Market is a historic indoor/outdoor market in the Capitol Hill Neighborhood where locals come for fresh produce, Artisan goods, and some of the best breakfast spots in the city.
Capitol Hill Neighborhood
Eastern Market, a historic indoor/outdoor market is located in the Capitol Hill Neighborhood.
Market lunch
Market Lunch is located in Eastern Market and is one of the most famous seats in DC where you can try a classic blueberry buckwheat pancake.
White House
A visit to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is incomplete without seeing the iconic facade of the White House from Lafayette Square.
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue is where the White House is located; tours require advanced booking.
Lafayette Square
You can see the iconic facade of the White House from Lafayette Square.
White House Visitor Center
The White House Visitor Center offers artifacts, historical exhibits, and a short film about life inside America's most famous residence.
National Archives
The National Archives Museum is home to the Declaration of Independence, the US Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
National Archives Museum
The National Archives Museum is home to the charters of Freedom.
UST Street Corridor
The UST Street Corridor, once known as black Broadway, is a historic district filled with jazz clubs, restaurants, and vibrant street art.
Ben's Chili Bowl
Ben's Chili Bowl is a legendary eatery on the UST Street Corridor serving its famous half-smoked chili dog since 1958.
Pentagon
The Pentagon is one of the most secure buildings in the world, but you can still take an official guided tour if you book well in advance.
9/11 Pentagon Memorial
The 9/11 Pentagon Memorial is a moving tribute to the 184 lives lost during the 2001 attacks.
National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art houses everything from Renaissance masterpieces to Modern American works, all for free.
Adams Morgan neighborhood
Adams Morgan neighborhood is full of eclectic shops, global Cuisine, and Lively night life.
Kennedy Center
You'll get Scenic views of landmarks like the Kennedy Center from the pic River.
Watergate hotel
You'll get Scenic views of landmarks like the Watergate hotel from the pic River.
Roosevelt Island
You'll get Scenic views of landmarks like Roosevelt Island from the pic River.
John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The John F Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is the cultural Heart of the City, hosting everything from Broadway musicals and Symphonies to ballet and comedy shows.
Millennium stage
The Millennium stage at the Kennedy Center offers free performances almost every evening.
Washington National Cathedral
The Washington National Cathedral blends Gothic architecture with American history, featuring stained glass windows and a Darth Vader gargoyle.
United States Botanic Garden
The United States Botanic Garden is a peaceful Oasis filled with exotic plants, waterfalls, and themed Gardens, featuring a tropical Conservatory.
Nationals Park
You can catch Washington Nationals MLB baseball at Nationals Park.
Capital 1 Arena
You can catch Washington Wizards NBA basketball and Washington Capitals NHL hockey at Capital 1 Arena.
Audi field
You can catch DC United MLS soccer at Audi field.
Washington Commanders
You can catch Washington commanders NFL football just outside the city in Maryland.