Washington DC is known as a boring government-driven town with its marbled monuments and politicians. It has more to offer, however - museums, vibrant nightlife, and arts. With numerous things to do in Washington DC at night or day, there’s something for everyone. Here’s a list of fun things to do in Washington DC, whether it’s with the kids or with friends!
Tour America’s center of democracy, the United States Capitol, and learn about its history, see an important collection of American art, or watch politicians debate about a spectrum of legislative issues. Visit the famous Capitol Rotunda, known for its unique acoustics where listeners several yards away can hear a speaker more than those nearby. Marvel at the murals and the fresco on the ceiling of the Capitol Dome, then proceed to the Crypt, National Statuary Hall, and the connecting corridors.
Standing at the far western end of the National Mall, Lincoln Memorial is a 19-foot tall statue built to honor the 16th president of the United States. Thirty-six columns representing each of the states in the US at the time of Abraham Lincoln’s death. His statue is facing the majestic Reflecting Pool, and etched to the wall is a memorable quote. You can also find the famous Gettysburg Address and the Second Inaugural Address to the left and right of Lincoln’s statue.
Visit the most famous residence in the United States to learn and experience its history and art first-hand! Tour around the public rooms, such as the East Wing (this includes the Red Room, Blue Room, and Green Room), the State Dining Room, China Room, and the White House Rose Garden. Secret Service staff are available to answer all your questions about the architecture and history of each room.
Known as America’s most visited national park, the National Mall in Washington DC is where the past, present, and future of the United States come together. Explore the open area and marvel at the monuments, fountains, gardens, and trees stretching two miles between the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol. You can also visit several museums here, from the famous Smithsonian Museum to the National Gallery of Art.
The Washington Monument is a stone obelisk that opened to the public more than a hundred years ago. Today, this iconic attraction is the defining feature of the city’s skyline and is one of the country’s most recognizable landmarks. Once the tallest building in the world, it honors the first president of the United States, George Washington, for his military leadership from 1775-1783 during the American Revolution. Perfect for students, families, and tourists fascinated by American history, the Washington Monument is a must-see for anyone visiting Washington DC.
The largest museum, education, and research complex in the world, the Smithsonian Institution Offices houses the National Zoo, 19 museums and exhibits, and 9 research facilities. This is the best place in Washington DC to learn about everything from the origins of man to the future of flight. Find The Castle at the center of it all, which gives you a sneak peek of what you’ll see in each of the museums. This is every art, history, or culture lover’s dream!
The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum houses the largest collection of aviation and space artifacts. Enter for free, learn about aviation history and space exploration, touch some moon rock, see the 1903 Wright Flyer, or marvel at the Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St, Louis, the first aircraft to complete a continuous flight from New York to Paris. With the 60,000 significant artifacts, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is truly worth a visit.
Situated on 18 acres of land in East Potomac Park, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a structure built to commemorate the life of the author of the Declaration of Independence, third US president Thomas Jefferson. Visit this structure and marvel at the Pantheon-inspired architecture and its surrounding water bordered by Washington DC’s famous cherry blossom trees. In the center of the domed interior, you’ll find a 19-foot statue of Jefferson himself, along with excerpts of his writings and quotes.
The National Gallery of Art is a paradise for lovers of art, as it houses a collection of more than 150,000 sculptures, paintings, photographs, decorative arts, and more. The artworks date from as far back as the 12th century to the present from well-known artists like da Vinci, Monet, and Picasso. Some unique pieces that you can find are self-portraits by Van Gogh and Rembrandt, as well as Raphael’s Alba Madonna and other pieces from the Hermitage Museum in Russia.
Opened in 1910, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History was built to inspire discovery and education of the natural world. It holds the world’s largest collection of natural history specimens with 126 million on display, including dinosaur remains and replicas of giant whales. You can also enter the Butterfly Pavilion or learn the history of man at the David H. Koch Hall of Human Origins.
The capital of the United States is widely known for its history and the flexing power of the government, but there’s just so much more to it. From simply housing famous museums and historical monuments, Washington DC has quickly evolved to also include a vibrant food scene and incredible arts and culture.
The best time to visit the city is March to June, as it coincides with cherry blossom season. Some notable events are the annual Cherryl Blossom festival in spring (March-May), 4th of July, and the lighting of the National Christmas Tree in December.
First-time visitors are recommended to stay in Foggy Bottom, as it is home to many of the city’s famous landmarks. If you’re on a budget, the best area for you is Logan Circle, and if you’re looking for some nightlife, stay in Dupont Circle.