There is no shortage of things to do in Washington DC. Although small, DC is full of history, culture, art, sports, delicious restaurants, fun bars, and plenty of shopping. You can have any type of adventure you want in Washington DC and if you live here, or even if you are just visiting for a few days, we came up with 21 things for your Washington DC bucket list. Don’t miss out on everything DC has to offer!
1. Visit the monuments and memorials at night.
Everyone needs to experience the majestic beauty of the glowing light of monuments around the Mall at night.
2. Relax on the National Mall.
Play in DC’s front yard! Relax, picnic, people watch, and soak in the culture and history of the surrounding memorials, monuments, and political buildings.
3. Walk and shop through Georgetown.
The charming streets of Georgetown provide tons of shopping and elegant row homes that are Instagram-worthy. This is one of the best Washington DC vacation ideas.
4. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
This moving museum offers a powerful look at one of the darkest times in the country’s history. It’s a must-see tribute.
5. Visit the National Gallery of Art.
The National Gallery of Art has a diverse collection of historical art as well as a beautiful sculpture garden.
6. Go around the world at the embassies.
Explore the world without ever leaving DC every May at Passport DC, a month-long event that highlights DC’s diplomatic community and international scene.
7. Head to the Air and Space Museum.
The Air and Space Museum gives visitors a look at the past and future of air and spacecraft in the country and it has the largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft in the world.
8. Taste a DC brew at one of the local breweries.
DC craft beer scene has exploded over the last few years and you can find unique, flavorful, and satisfying local brews all over the district.
9. Get a half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl.
10. Try your culinary tastes at minibar by José Andrés.
José Andrés unique dining experience is unlike anything else there is in this world! You will be talking about it for years to come!
11. Try out Capital Bikeshare.
Getting around DC has never been easier than hopping on and off one of the 3,500 bicycles situated around the district.
12. Tour the Arboretum.
The National Arboretum is a true hidden gem where you can wander for hours enjoying peaceful nature.
13. Get fresh fish at Municipal Fish Market at the Wharf on Maine Avenue.
You can find fresh fish, prepared seafood, and a one-of-a-kind experience in the oldest operating open-air fish market in the country.
14. Kayak, boat, or paddle board the Potomac.
The Potomac provides the perfect place for enjoying water sports in the city.
15. Visit the International Spy Museum.
The International Spy Museum is truly one of the coolest museums in the entire city. Learn about the secret history of spies and go on a mission of your own! In my opinion, this is one of the best things to add to your list of things to do in Washington DC.
16. Shop at Eastern Market.
Experience the hustle and bustle of the thriving market where you can find fresh produce, prepared meals, and handmade crafts.
17. Enjoy a food truck meal.
The food truck scene is huge in DC and every truck has delicious meals at great prices.
18. Tour the three houses of government: the White House, the Capitol, and the US Supreme Court.
You can’t experience DC without experiencing the government. You can schedule tours and visits of each of the three branches of government for free.
19. Watch a Nats game at Nationals Park.
There’s nothing quite like watching America’s game in America’s capital on a hot summer night. It doesn’t hurt when Bryce Harper is hitting home runs.
20. Get a cupcake at Baked & Wired.
Skip the lines at Georgetown Cupcake and get the best baked goods in the city at Baked & Wired.
21. Take a hike in Rock Creek Park.
Rock Creek is Washington’s prominent park that gives all Washingtonians a perfect place to experience nature right in the heart of the city.
How many of these things can you cross off your Washington DC bucket list? While you are at it, you might want to add the 16 best things to do in Washington DC to your list!
Looking for a place to stay in Washington DC, take a look at Pendry Washington DC - The Wharf and book your stay!
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