The Top 10 Things To Do In Washington, D.C.
The United States capital city, Washington, D.C. is a historic city that offers it’s visitors a wide variety of attractions. There is so much to do here, with the city offering many free museums, tours, sports games, and much more!
#10 - Nationals Park
Representing our nation’s capital, and home to the aptly named Washington Nationals, this premier ballpark brings to you America’s pastime just south of the country’s Capitol building and Washington Monument. In fact, these can even Read Morebe seen from the stadium, along with a view of the conjoining riverfront. The playing field was built 24 feet below ground level, making it unique and less strenuous for the fans to get to the other levels of the park. The stadium boasts many luxury padded seats and suites, along with many food options. Most notable are its PNC Diamond Club and the Ultra Loft Budweiser Brew House located in centerfield. National’s Park also has a children’s play area dubbed “Strike Zone” as well as its famous cherry blossom trees that represent the city. The stadium tour offers something that no other MLB stadium tour offers: an opportunity to throw some pitches in the bullpen! Our group had a great time throwing some balls off the same mound that countless MLBers have thrown off of before. There are a ton of restaurant and pregame options available just north of the ballpark. It has great sights and is easily accessible by way of public transport, and is even bike friendly! When in D.C., make it a point to stop by and enjoy a game!
#9 - Capitol Building & Library of Congress
So much history has taken place in Washington DC. In this area of the city, you can see where history has been made, where history continues to be made, and artifacts from our nation. The Library of Congress is the national library of Read Morethe United States, the oldest federal cultural institution in the country, and in terms of catalogue size, it is the 2nd largest library in the world (British Library is number 1). Visitors can reserve timed-entry passes to enter the library and view the unbelievable architecture, a pristine Gutenberg Bible, and the Main Reading Room. The Capital, which is still very much a working office building, is truly a symbol of our nation’s government. You can book a free tour through its official website or your local congressman. We were able to get a tour by contacting our congressman, and really enjoyed our tour. We were led on a private tour and got to experience a ton of what the Capitol has to offer, and the tour culminated inside the house chamber. Both the Capitol and the Library of Congress offer their visitors a wonderful look into our country’s history and government.
#8 - Memorials
The National Mall in Washington DC is home to some of the greatest memorials that our country has to offer. Walking through the area provides a fantastic history lesson and an opportunity to pay tribute to all the brave Read Morecitizens who gave their lives to ensure our freedom. Of course, there’s the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Reflecting Pool, these are must-sees. Additionally, the main memorials are the FDR Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Thomas Jefferson Memorial, World War II Memorial, Ulysses S. Grant Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. There are also many secondary memorials and park areas. We would definitely recommend walking (if staying nearby) to this area or taking public transportation, as parking can be competitive. There are also many guided tours available, including the Old Trolley Tour and many variations of walking memorial tours, including nighttime options. When we think about Washington DC, we picture the time we spent in the National Mall gazing upon these beautiful tributes.
#7 - International Spy Museum
This museum is highly recommended for families! It takes you through an interactive experience of being an undercover spy, starting with the briefing area and adding fun clues and tasks in each room. It will teach you about Read Morefamous spymasters, show you secret intelligence gathering relics, and take you through the ages of spydom. You will also learn about analyzing intel and famous code-breaking skills. The timeline of spying will enter into the modern world of cyber warfare and discuss the ethics surrounding this secret world. The museum is slightly away from the National Mall and does charge to enter. The museum also has a revolving exhibit for an extra fee. When we went, it was James Bond in Motion and displayed all of the cars from the famous spy movie franchise. We enjoyed the renovated museum and learning all about the life of espionage.
#6 - Museum Row
Located within the National Mall, between the Capitol building and Washington Monument, here you will find multiple museums and attractions for the whole family. What’s great? Most of them are free! From art Read Moremuseums and gardens to history and space, you will find all kinds of things to explore here. We ended up going on two of the days we visited because there is just so much to do! Plus, you are walking nearby if you are seeing the memorials, the Capitol, the Library of Congress, etc. Some museums have timed entry reservations, so make sure to check that out! We loved the Natural History Museum, the American History Museum, the Botanical Gardens, the sculpture garden, and the Air and Space Museum. This is also home to the Smithsonian Castle, National Museum of the American Indian, National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Holocaust Museum. It is walkable, but your feet will start to ache. Take advantage of the bus system, rental scooters and bikes, and even the metro. Known as “America’s front yard,” it’s a must visit.
#5 - Arlington Cemetery
Located just across the Potomac River in nearby Arlington County, Virginia lies one of the most famous cemeteries in the world. Established during the Civil War, the country’s largest military cemetery is the final resting place of Read Moremore than 400,000 veterans. You can walk the grounds and pay your respects to people such as Thurgood Marshall, Joe Louis, and John F. Kennedy. Stroll through the grounds yourself with the help of their handy phone app or purchase a ticket for their tram tour.
#4 - Washington Monument
Standing as the world’s tallest predominantly stone structure, this historical monument pays homage to the first President of the United States, George Washington. Its obelisk shape, standing at about 555 feet tall, can not be Read Moremissed as the centerpiece of D.C.’s National Mall. For access to the ride to the top, 50 stories high, reserve your time/day in advance. It is well worth it! We were very impressed with the views in every direction. You get to see the White House, Capitol Building, reflecting pool, Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, and more from a gorgeous perspective. The observation deck also serves as a mini-museum with facts about the monument’s construction and history. Riding down the elevator is also an experience, as you get to see the commemorative stones donated by different states and institutions embedded in its walls. We stayed in the Downtown Lafayette Square area, so we were able to walk here, or a short scooter/bike ride. Metro and bus service are also available. From here, you can begin your Memorial stroll and National Mall experience.
#3 - Mount Vernon
A short drive from DC to Alexandria, VA will lead you to the site of the historic home of our nation’s first president, George Washington. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1960, the mansion was built back in 1758. An Read Moreadmission ticket gets you access to an audio tour and self-paced access to the historic area, outbuildings, gardens, tomb, farm, trails, and the museum. For an additional price, they offer many other tours, including ones that take you inside the estate and on the Potomac River via a boat cruise.
#2 - Lincoln Memorial
Located on the western end of the National Mall and not very far from the Washington Monument sits a wonderful tribute to the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln. In the form of a neoclassical temple, this Read Morememorial is grand in both size and presentation. The 19-foot-tall statue of Lincoln has rested for over 100 years in the 30-foot-tall structure. The side walls showcase two of Lincoln’s most famous speeches: his second inaugural address and the Gettysburg Address. Fun fact: the 36 columns represent every state that existed in the US at the time of Lincoln’s death. The Lincoln Memorial is a great place to come to reflect on the positive change that the 16th president brought to our country and to get inspired to help continue his legacy.
#1 - The White House
Home to the President and First Family of the U.S.A., the White House is a historical landmark that symbolizes our country and the American people. You can view the White House from both the south and north sides (Pennsylvania Read MoreAve.), but you will have to take pictures through the gate. If you would like to go inside for a tour, make sure to look at those regulations well in advance. Some tours are offered through your local congressman and book far in advance, so be sure to reach out early. They are in high demand and go fast. The White House is within walking distance of the Downtown D.C. area, so we passed by it several times on our trip. From here, you can walk/ride on to the Washington Monument and the National Mall area. Don’t miss out on seeing this glimpse into the United States’ past and present history.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What do you need to know about visiting Washington DC? You should be aware that there is a ton to see in this great city and a lot of walking will be required to see it all. Take advantage of trains, buses, Read Moreand scooters when you can.
How many days in DC do you need? There is so much to do in DC, one could easily spend an entire week there. To get a good feel for the city and see its top sites, we would recommend at least 3 days.
What is the most efficient way to see Washington DC? You can see a lot of the sites simply by walking around yourself, but if you want to be as efficient as possible, booking tours led by experts of the city Read Morewould be the way to go.
What to bring on a trip to Washington DC? When visiting DC, you must be prepared for that strong East Coast humidity. Pack extra clothes for some midday changes and bring an umbrella as rain Read Moreseemingly comes and goes as it pleases.
What is the dress code in DC? There is no official dress code in DC, but you definitely feel underdressed in your activewear if taking in a meal at a nice restaurant near the Capitol. For Read Moresightseeing at the museums and monuments, comfortable clothing and shoes made for walking will be essential and totally acceptable.