Top 10 Things to Do in Washington, D.C.
Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or just someone who loves a good stroll through scenic parks, Washington, D.C. has something for everyone. With its rich history, free museums, and iconic monuments, there’s plenty to keep you busy. So, if you’re planning a trip to the nation’s capital (or just daydreaming about one), here are the top ten things you shouldn’t miss.
Visit the National Mall
No trip to D.C. is complete without a walk around the National Mall. This is the beating heart of the city, stretching from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. The National Mall is home to some of the most iconic monuments and museums in the country. You can spend hours here, taking in sights like the Washington Monument, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and more.
Pro Tip: If you’re here during cherry blossom season (March-April), you’re in for a real treat. The blossoms make everything feel magical.
Tour the Smithsonian Museums
Here’s the kicker: almost all the Smithsonian museums are free. That means you can spend hours (or days) exploring art, history, science, and culture without spending a dime. Popular choices include the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Air and Space Museum. But if you want something more off the beaten path, check out the Hirshhorn Museum for modern art or the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
Pro Tip: Wear comfortable shoes. These museums are huge!
Check out the U.S. Capitol & the Library of Congress
If you want to dive into the political heart of the country, visiting the U.S. Capitol is a must. You can book a free tour of the Capitol, where you’ll learn about the building’s history and architecture while seeing where Congress meets. Right nearby is the Library of Congress, which isn’t just a stunning building—it also houses the largest library collection in the world. Even if you’re not a bookworm, the architecture alone will blow you away.
Pro Tip: Book your Capitol tour in advance. It gets crowded, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Take a Picture at the White House
While you can’t exactly drop by for coffee at the White House (unless you’re tight with the President), you can still take a photo from outside the gates. A quick stop at Lafayette Square will give you a great view of the front. For those wanting to dig deeper into the history of the White House, a visit to the White House Visitor Center nearby is a good idea—it’s packed with exhibits on past presidents, the building’s history, and its iconic role in American politics.
Pro Tip: For the best view of the White House, head to the Ellipse, the large park just south of the White House. It’s less crowded than the north side and offers a wider, unobstructed view. Plus, during the holidays, you can see the National Christmas Tree here!
Wander Through the National Gallery of Art
Art enthusiasts, this one’s for you. The National Gallery of Art has an impressive collection spanning centuries, with works from artists like da Vinci, Vermeer, and Monet. The East Building is where you’ll find modern and contemporary art, while the West Building houses more classical works. And if you just want to relax, the garden café in the sculpture garden is a lovely spot to grab a bite and enjoy the views.
Pro Tip: The National Gallery of Art also offers free guided tours if you want a deeper dive into specific exhibits or collections.
Walk the Tidal Basin and See the Jefferson Memorial
If you’re into scenic walks, the Tidal Basin offers some of the best views in D.C. Not only is it a peaceful place to stroll, but it’s also where you’ll find some of the most iconic memorials, including the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. A sunset walk around the Tidal Basin is especially gorgeous.
Pro Tip: Rent a paddleboat and float on the Tidal Basin for a fun and unique way to see the monuments from the water.
Explore Georgetown
For a change of pace, head over to Georgetown. This historic neighbourhood is known for its charming cobblestone streets, boutique shops, and excellent restaurants. Be sure to take a walk along the C&O Canal or check out the Georgetown Waterfront Park for a relaxing break by the Potomac River. If you’re a history fan, visit the Tudor Place Historic House or Dumbarton Oaks. For horror movie fans – the Exorcist steps can be found descending from the corner of Prospect St and 25th St NW.
Pro Tip: Georgetown Cupcake (from the famous TV show) usually has a line, but it’s worth the wait for a sweet treat.
Get Inspired at the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
This beautiful memorial honours the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. It’s one of the newer monuments in D.C., but it’s already become one of the most impactful. The memorial features a striking 30-foot-tall statue of Dr. King carved into a “Stone of Hope,” surrounded by quotes from his speeches and writings. It’s a place that encourages reflection and inspires visitors from around the world.
Pro Tip: Visit the memorial at night when it’s beautifully lit and less crowded.
Climb to the Top of the Washington Monument
Standing at 555 feet, the Washington Monument offers stunning 360-degree views of the city. You’ll need to get tickets in advance (and they go fast!), but it’s worth it. Once you’re at the top, you can see all the way from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial and beyond. It’s the perfect spot for photos and to appreciate the scale of D.C.’s iconic layout.
Pro Tip: The best time to visit is early in the morning or right before sunset for the most dramatic views.
Catch a Performance at the Kennedy Center
If you’re in the mood for some culture, make sure to catch a show at the Kennedy Center. From ballet to theatre to symphony performances, there’s always something going on here. The best part? They also offer free performances every evening at 6:00 pm as part of their Millennium Stage series. Even if you’re not attending a show, the rooftop terrace at the Kennedy Center offers amazing views of the Potomac River and the city skyline.
Pro Tip: Plan to have dinner at one of the Kennedy Center’s restaurants for a classy evening out.
Bonus: Eat Your Way Around D.C.
Okay, I couldn’t leave this out. D.C. has an incredible food scene that’s often underrated. From food trucks near the National Mall to high-end dining in Penn Quarter, there’s something for every taste and budget. Don’t miss Ben’s Chili Bowl, a local institution famous for its half-smokes (a spicy sausage), or grab a reservation at Rose’s Luxury, one of the city’s best-known restaurants.
Pro Tip: For more adventurous eaters, try out the international cuisine scene in neighbourhoods like Adams Morgan or U Street, where you can find everything from Ethiopian to Vietnamese food.
Whether you’re spending a weekend or a week in Washington, D.C., these spots are sure to make your trip memorable. There’s always something new to discover, and the mix of history, culture, and beauty makes D.C. one of the most captivating cities in the world. So, pack your bags, bring your walking shoes, and get ready to explore the best that D.C. has to offer!
