Things to do in Washington

Find and book activities, attractions and tours

United States Capitol showing an administrative buidling, heritage architecture and autumn leaves
Washington featuring a monument and an administrative buidling as well as a couple
United States Capitol which includes heritage architecture, an administrative buidling and a sunset
National Museum of Natural History featuring heritage elements and interior views as well as an individual femail
National Air and Space Museum featuring interior views as well as a large group of people
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What to do in Washington

Discover the most popular places to visit in Washington

White House which includes a city, an administrative buidling and heritage architecture

White House

4/5(5,961 reviews)

Explore the home and workplace of the president of the United States. See entertainment areas and state rooms and learn about the history of this famous building.

White House
National Mall which includes heritage architecture, an administrative buidling and a city

National Mall

4.5/5(4,017 reviews)

Inspiring architecture, magnificent museums and the icons of American history await on Washington’s famous two-mile (three-kilometer) strip.

National Mall
National Air and Space Museum

Smithsonian Institution

5/5(128 reviews)

Smithsonian Institution is a popular museum in Washington with a rich history. Discover the area's fascinating museums and shops.

Smithsonian Institution
United States Capitol showing an administrative buidling, heritage architecture and autumn leaves

United States Capitol

4.5/5(4,868 reviews)

Sitting on top of Capitol Hill is a Washington landmark that’s been the home of American democracy for more than 200 years.

United States Capitol
Capital One Arena

Capital One Arena

4.5/5(2,511 reviews)

Catch an event at Capital One Arena during your trip to Washington. Discover the area's acclaimed theater scene and notable monuments.

Capital One Arena
University of Maryland, College Park

University of Maryland, College Park

4/5(1,180 reviews)

Explore the campus of University of Maryland, College Park, during your travels in College Park. Experience the area's fascinating museums and lively festivals.

University of Maryland, College Park
Smithsonian\'s National Zoo

Smithsonian's National Zoo

4.5/5(1,096 reviews)

Why not meet the animals who call Smithsonian's National Zoo home during your vacation in Washington? Experience the area's great live music and entertainment choices.

Smithsonian's National Zoo
District of Columbia

Union Station Shopping Center

4/5(115 reviews)

During your trip to Washington, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Union Station Shopping Center. Experience the area's fascinating museums and entertainment choices.

Union Station Shopping Center
Georgetown University

Georgetown University

4.5/5(2,018 reviews)

Enjoy the collegiate vibe at Georgetown University as part of your travels around Washington. Experience the area's acclaimed art scene and fascinating museums.

Georgetown University

Discover the most popular landmarks and neighborhoods in Washington

Downtown Washington D.C. showing street scenes, a city and night scenes

Downtown Washington D.C.

4.5/5(6,676 area reviews)

Central business district boasting Penn Quarter, Chinatown, and CityCenterDC, with a variety of bars, restaurants, and theaters. Explore historic sites like Lafayette Square and enjoy diverse dining options such as Fogo de Chão and Old Ebbitt Grill.

Downtown Washington D.C.
Georgetown showing a house, heritage architecture and a city

Georgetown

4.5/5(371 area reviews)

Historic landmarks and a bustling commercial district await, with high-end shops, bars, and restaurants at Wisconsin Avenue and M Street. Enjoy waterfront dining at Washington Harbour or explore the scenic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal.

Georgetown
Theodore Roosevelt National Park which includes a city and a river or creek

Northwest

4/5(100 area reviews)

Discover the heart of Washington, D.C. in this bustling quadrant, home to the central business district, Federal Triangle, and northern National Mall museums. Explore college campuses, catch a game at Capital One Arena, or visit the National Cathedral and Rock Creek Park. Enjoy seamless connectivity with all six Metro lines and numerous bus options.

Northwest
Alexandria featuring heritage elements

Old Town Alexandria

4.5/5(580 area reviews)

Discover well-preserved late-18th and early-19th century urban architecture in this National Historic Landmark District. Explore the commercial center around S. Washington Street and King Street, featuring notable buildings like the Art Deco Virginia Public Service building.

Old Town Alexandria
Dupont Circle which includes a monument and a statue or sculpture

Dupont Circle

4.5/5(2,793 area reviews)

Embassies and think tanks abound in this area, where visitors can enjoy the Dupont Circle Fountain, historic Anderson House, and diverse dining options. Easily accessible via the Red Line Metro station.

Dupont Circle
United States Capitol which includes heritage architecture, an administrative buidling and a sunset

Capitol Hill

4/5(2,968 area reviews)

Historic and densely populated, this neighborhood boasts the Capitol, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress. Stroll along Pennsylvania Avenue, shop at Eastern Market, or explore Barracks Row's vibrant commercial scene.

Capitol Hill

Popular day trips from Washington

Alexandria showing street scenes, cafe scenes and a small town or village

Alexandria

Arlington National Cemetery showing a memorial, a park and landscape views

Arlington

Photo by shadiii R.gh

Chevy Chase

Silver Spring

Silver Spring

Photo by nazila

Takoma Park

Photo by mlur_RN

Falls Church

Photo by Alavia

Lanham

McLean

McLean

Frequently asked questions

Is Washington worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are plenty of fun things to do in Washington. Remember to experience the area's blend of cool sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Washington?
After you've checked off popular attractions like Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture, spend some time enjoying Washington's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Washington?
National Mall is one of the top tourist attractions in Washington and should feature high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Washington?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city attractions, including National Mall, Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture. The average stay in Washington is three days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Arlington isn't far away.
Is Washington a walkable city?
With vibrant neighborhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city center, Washington is a great destination to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture. Then take a stroll around Downtown Washington D.C, located 0.32 kilometers from the center, and Connecticut Ave - K Street, which is about 2 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Washington with kids?
Planning what to do in Washington with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Washington for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Washington, with experiences for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to K Street or Ellsworth Place.
Are there free things to do in Washington?
In Washington, National Mall is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighborhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in Washington.

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