74 Fun Things to Do in Washington DC

The city of the White House and the Capitol is home to countless monuments and historic buildings that have both witnessed and played a central role in major moments in American history. Added to this list is a wide range of important museums covering a variety of themes.

Washington DC also offers a wide range of leisure activities. It boasts numerous parks and distinctive neighbourhoods where you’ll enjoy exploring the streets and sampling the local cuisine. The surrounding area also has plenty of interesting places to visit. I’ll tell you all about it below.

The White House, the Obelisk, the Capitol… You’ve only just arrived and these are just some of the iconic landmarks to start your discovery of Washington DC. This city steeped in history is full of attractions to visit. Its neoclassical architecture will surprise you, evident in its monuments and museums.

Want to make sure you have time to see everything at your own pace? Without a doubt, the best way to take in this sprawling city is on a hop-on hop-off bus tour where you can get on and off as often as you like. You’ll visit all the key landmarks and gain a good understanding of the metropolis.

If you’d like to find out more, check out this article on the best sightseeing buses in Washington DC

The National Archives are housed in an imposing neoclassical building. Today they are open to the public and proudly display the Declaration of Independence, the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights. A fascinating visit to gain a deeper understanding of the United States’ history.

Don’t leave Washington DC without popping in to browse the country’s most important historical documents. To make the most of this visit, I recommend this comprehensive guided tour, as, in addition to providing a detailed account of the National Archives, it includes stops at other iconic landmarks along the way.

Sunset in Washington DC is very popular. A recommended spot to view it is from the Obelisk, as there is a large pond in front of it and you can take a lovely photo with the orange sky reflected in it.

Once night falls, it’s not time to head home – quite the opposite. The city’s night-time lighting is an attraction in itself and well worth seeing. Want to take photos of the most iconic buildings all lit up? Take a bus tour that will take you to the most beautiful spots and tell you everything you need to know.

If you want to find out more, check out this article on the best night-time tours in Washington DC

George Washington was the first President of the United States in 1789. At the age of 20, he inherited the Mount Vernon estate, which was then a plantation. Today it is a historic site that is open to visitors. The estate, with its mansion and gardens, is a delight to stroll through, and the exhibition of artefacts on display is also very interesting.

Located 25 km from the city, it sits in peaceful surroundings, surrounded by nature. If you’d like to combine a day surrounded by greenery and history, this is the perfect opportunity. To make the most of it, take a look at this guided tour.

Arlington National Cemetery is on the other side of the River Potomac, in Virginia. What makes it unique is that it is a military cemetery where veterans from every war, starting with the American Civil War, are buried. Among its rows of graves, you can see a much-visited one with a flame that never goes out: that of John F. Kennedy.

This cemetery, impressive for its size and long rows of white headstones, is best visited and enjoyed on a guided tour, as you’ll learn the most important historical facts and interesting details about the famous people buried there.

If you’d like to find out more, take a look at this article on the War Memorials and Arlington Cemetery in Washington DC

The River Potomac separates Washington DC from Virginia. It is spanned by the Long Bridge, a group of three bridges connecting the two states. It has a strong current, so boats navigate it daily. Its waters are very calm and offer beautiful views of the city.

If a boat tour appeals to you, choose the sunset time and you’re guaranteed some incredible photos. To round off the plan, I also suggest enjoying a gourmet dinner on a cruise. A brilliant plan to enjoy as a couple or with the family.

If you’d like to find out more, check out this article on Cruises in Washington DC

Washington is a fairly flat place, so it’s not unusual to see locals and tourists getting about by bike. One place I’d recommend for a bike ride is the National Mall, a green space featuring several monuments to famous figures and a good number of museums. If you visit in spring, don’t miss the National Mall, as you’ll see its cherry trees in bloom. Fancy renting a bike? You’ll have a wonderful day exploring the city at your own pace.

Georgetown is a well-known neighbourhood in Washington DC for its character. You’ll be struck by its historic architecture and numerous mansions, Georgetown University, its shops… It’s a very picturesque and lively neighbourhood, as there are many university students and it’s easy to find live music in its streets. It’s also situated on the riverbank and even has a small harbour. It’s got it all!

This neighbourhood is home to many local restaurants. Would you like to try American food in Georgetown’s restaurants? I suggest a tour that selects the best stops for this. You’ll sample local flavours and learn about the city’s history.

If you’d like to find out more, check out this article on food tours in Washington DC

Washington DC is a city brimming with historic sites and monuments. Through them, you can learn about the capital’s history and how it has evolved. You’ll find that many places will look familiar, as many have been film locations – starting with the White House itself and the Lincoln Memorial.

If you don’t know where to start, that’s perfectly normal – there’s so much to see and it’s all so interesting! My advice is that, to see the must-sees, you should set aside a day for a bus tour. That way, you won’t tire yourself out running from one place to another and you’ll get a good general overview of the city.

Located in the historic Capitol Hill neighbourhood, on a hill that makes it visible from every corner of the city, the Capitol is the symbol of American democracy and a must-see on your list of things to see in Washington DC.

This iconic white building with a large dome topped by an obelisk houses the two chambers of the United States Congress, with the south wing belonging to the House of Representatives and the north wing to the Senate. It is here that some of the most important decisions shaping the country’s politics are made, decisions that even have repercussions in other parts of the world.

To make the most of this visit, I recommend taking a tour with an expert guide who will share all the fascinating and interesting facts about this place.

If you’d like to know more, check out this article on everything you need to know about visiting the Capitol in Washington DC

What makes U Street one of the most famous streets in Washington DC? Mainly its colours and street art, its entertainment and its food. It’s not just a place to have a good time; it’s also full of historic sites that reflect African-American history, as this street was once known as Black Broadway.

If you go, don’t miss trying the half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl, one of the most iconic restaurants. Fancy trying other local delicacies and discovering all the secrets of this street? I recommend a guided tour, where you’ll see the best street murals, learn about the history and sample the recommended dishes and drinks. A truly comprehensive experience!

In the United States, everything is on a grand scale. For example, the Smithsonian Institution is the largest museum complex in the world. It comprises 16 museums and the zoo. They are situated along the National Mall, that vast park stretching from the Capitol to the Washington Monument.

In short, there are huge areas to explore! An alternative and more sustainable way to do this is by taking a tour in an electric car. You’ll see the famous monuments and historic sites on a fun guided tour.

Near the Pentagon, on the other side of the River Potomac, lies Arlington National Cemetery, the resting place of veterans from every war in which the United States has participated since the War of Independence, as well as other important figures of the nation such as President John F. Kennedy.

Arlington Cemetery became a National Park in 2004, and other places you can visit there include the memorials to the space shuttles Challenger and Columbia, a memorial honouring those who died on the Pan Am flight over Lockerbie, and another for the victims of 9/11.

Given its vast size, I recommend taking a tour of Arlington National Cemetery to explore it in depth.

Did you expect to see a field of cherry blossoms right in the heart of Washington DC? Well, there is one, and it’s genuinely Japanese. It turns out that in 1912, the mayor of Tokyo gifted 3,000 Japanese cherry trees to the city. Since then, a cherry blossom festival has been held every year between March and April. It’s an event eagerly awaited by the city’s residents and packed with activities and performances.

The area where it’s located is the Tidal Basin, and it’s quite extensive. If you want to explore it in depth and also enjoy nearby historical sites such as the Eisenhower and Einstein Memorials, I recommend doing so on a guided bike tour. You’ll be able to get around quickly and enjoy the white and pink scenery.

Through the galleries of this museum, you can learn about African American history from the 15th century to the present day. A comprehensive tour covering art, religion and history that leaves no visitor indifferent.

It was in Washington DC that Martin Luther King addressed his audience with the famous phrase “I have a dream”. There are many moments and places that witnessed the African American struggle for civil rights, which you can discover on a specialised tour that will take you to these sites, as well as the museum. Don’t miss it!

If you’d like to find out more, check out this article on everything you need to know about the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington DC

The city is particularly beautiful at night, with its buildings and monuments all lit up. But like anywhere else, it also has a dark side, and there are real stories and spine-chilling legends set in places such as the Capitol itself and the White House.

Do you like scary stories? With the night as your backdrop, you can join a ghost tour – if you dare. You’ll learn about the city’s history in a different and entertaining way.

You may have heard that beer in the United States isn’t its strongest point. Well, this has been changing significantly in recent years with the rise of craft beers. In Washington DC, new breweries are springing up, experimenting with processes and flavours, and they’re already well-known and highly regarded.

Fancy trying these beers? I suggest you check out the best places to enjoy a tasting paired with food. Eat, drink and continue your tour of the city for the rest of the day – a brilliant plan!

In Washington DC there are around 70 historic buildings and a similar number of monuments, each with its own appeal. This means plenty of photos to take, lots of information to learn and many kilometres to cover.

The National Mall alone is 3 kilometres long and there’s plenty to see there. To get around quickly and visit the city’s top attractions, why not do it on a Segway? It’s fun, fast, quiet and eco-friendly. I highly recommend it!

This museum in particular is highly rated as it is the second most visited of the Smithsonian Institution, which comprises 16 museums in Washington DC. You can see everything from mummies to coming face to face with enormous animals.

Its dinosaur and world mammal halls are famous, as well as its extensive collection of gems. You’ll certainly enjoy this visit immensely.

If you’d like to find out more, check out this article on the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC: tickets, guided tours and more

The vast Potomac River is traversed daily by hundreds of boats of all sizes. You can take a water taxi to reach different parts of the city, or simply cruise along for pleasure and admire the views from the water. When the cherry trees are in bloom, you can see them from the river too, with the skyline in the background – what a sight!

Here’s a plan to help you make the most of your day. Book a buffet-style brunch on a luxury cruise. An ideal way to spend the morning whilst you eat and enjoy the city from a different angle.

Perhaps, whilst planning your trip to the US capital, you didn’t initially consider taking a trip outside the city because there is so much to see in Washington DC, but it’s truly worth it and I recommend setting aside a day of your holiday for this activity, as you’ll get to discover other fascinating nearby places and add new experiences to your travel log. Every traveller’s motto!

During your stay in Washington DC, I suggest you take a trip to Mount Vernon, the former home of George Washington and his wife Martha. This experience provides a fascinating insight into the American character and offers a glimpse into the historical heart of a nation with just a few centuries of history, allowing you to learn more about its origins and how it was founded.

If you’d like to find out more, take a look at this article on the Mount Vernon Day Trip from Washington

One of the best-known neighbourhoods in Washington DC is Dupont Circle. It spreads out in a circular pattern from the square that gives it its name and is home to a multitude of embassies and historic buildings. Here, alongside a modern side, you can also experience a traditional side, such as the Dupont Farmers’ Market on Sundays and the mansions from the Gilded Age.

The area is highly regarded and is home to numerous restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. This contrast attracts many people and makes it a very cosmopolitan neighbourhood. You mustn’t miss it! To visit the best spots, why not take a guided tour? You’ll discover interesting places and also learn about the scandals hidden behind some of the mansions… And that’s all I can say!

The assassination that took Abraham Lincoln’s life took place in 1865 at the entrance to Ford’s Theatre. This event had a profound impact on the country’s history and shook American society, as he was a much-loved president.

While you’re at the scene of the crime, you can take a guided tour specialising in this topic and learn how this event changed the course of history, the plot and details of the assassination, and the manhunt for his killer, John Wilkes Booth.

Evenings and nights in Washington DC are enlivened by a wide range of leisure activities. In the United States, they really enjoy connecting with the audience, which is why live shows are so popular. Would you like to feel like a local and go to a magic and comedy show? I recommend The Magic Duel, a duo with excellent reviews and an impressive stage show. Book your tickets and enjoy a great night out.

Washington DC is the capital of the United States and, not surprisingly, one of the world’s leading centres for the dissemination of science and the humanities. That’s why another must-do here is to visit one of the city’s many museums.

The National Gallery of Art is one of the most popular, where you can see works by Picasso, Rembrandt, Kandinsky, Renoir and many more. Enjoy a tour of the museum with a guided tour that will take you through the most significant works, accompanied by their history.

In Washington DC, there’s an area with plenty of character. This is where jazz legend Duke Ellington was born. It’s U Street, a street and its surroundings where you can appreciate the influence of African-American culture and music. Are you a vinyl collector? You’ll find the best shops here.

In this area, you’ll see lots of murals on the walls, music bars and restaurants serving delicious food. Don’t miss Ben’s Chili Bowl, a long-standing establishment world-famous for its ‘half smoke’, a hot dog with a twist. If you want to discover the most interesting spots in this area and learn about its history, join a guided tour. You’ll love it!

By now, it will be clear to you that there are many interesting areas to see. The National Mall alone—a rectangular park 3 kilometres long—stretches from the Washington Monument to the Capitol. It is here that you can take a beautiful photo of the Obelisk reflected in the pond.

Within the National Mall, there are several memorials to famous figures, and flanking it are the national museums and the zoo. Just a heads-up: you’ll need a map to find your way around the National Mall. To take in such a concentration of history and art, I recommend a guided bike tour. It’s a really fun way to see the city and you’ll learn all about it.

If you fancy a bit of exercise, check out this article on the best bike tours in Washington DC

As the seat of the White House, dozens of presidents have passed through it and this city. Their time in the capital isn’t limited to their terms in office; these presidents have or had their second homes in the best neighbourhoods of Washington DC. In fact, one of them, Grover Cleveland, never lived in the White House.

If you’re interested in the history and development of politics in the United States, don’t miss this expert-led tour of the presidents’ mansions, where you’ll learn the most fascinating anecdotes in the very style of the TV series The West Wing.

No, we haven’t gone to Egypt; we’re still on the American continent. Let me tell you, Alexandria is located about 10 kilometres from Washington DC and is known for being one of the oldest cities in the United States. Its historic centre is very peaceful and colourful, with well-preserved architecture. It’s also right by the River Potomac, so there’s a lovely riverside walk.

King Street Mile is well known for its colourful façades and local shops. It’s a highly recommended getaway to get a feel for the American character. Strolling through its streets is like a journey back in time. To make the most of your visit, I recommend this tour, which will take you there and show you the most beautiful spots and their history.

There are plenty of fun activities to do in the US capital. If you’re the adventurous type, enjoy a game or are simply looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day, I recommend trying an Escape Room. Here you can choose an adventure to suit your taste and put your wits to the test. An immersive and interactive experience, ideal for enjoying with friends or family.

During the Cold War, men were in political leadership roles, but in reality, women held a very important position that is not widely recognised. It was during this period that the feminist movement began to take shape, with its struggles and achievements in a difficult global era.

The streets of Georgetown are home to several of the most influential women of the era. If you want to discover this parallel history that isn’t told in the books, this guided tour offers a great opportunity to learn a fascinating and entertaining history lesson.

The name of this museum has surely caught your attention. This intriguing six-storey museum showcases not only texts and artefacts but also immersive experiences and interactive galleries, offering a different perspective on the Bible’s impact on the world. Of course, this museum has sparked some highly controversial opinions. In any case, it’s a very entertaining visit and a museum that’s out of the ordinary.

If you’d like to find out more, check out this article on the best museums in Washington DC

Here, you won’t just be able to go on cultural visits; another of the most exciting things to do in Washington DC is to attend a basketball match.

Whether it’s because you love the sport or because you want to soak up the excitement and atmosphere that this sport creates on the court, you can’t miss this experience. What’s more, these are very family-friendly events, so if you’re travelling with children, you can all go together to watch a Washington Wizards match – they’ll be blown away!

Loudoun County is a beautiful green area an hour from Washington DC, known for its vineyards and, consequently, its wineries. The annual grape harvest in Loudoun is valued at over $2 million. It’s not just about quantity but quality too, which has won awards at the Governor’s Cup Wine Competition.

A visit you shouldn’t miss if you’re a wine lover. The setting will remind you of the French countryside, but on an even grander scale. If you’d like to explore this vast expanse of vineyards, discover the finest wineries and sample their wines, don’t miss this private tour.

You’ve no doubt already heard of Hard Rock Café in other major world capitals. The world’s most famous themed restaurant is also in Washington DC, located right next to the Ford Theatre, where Lincoln was assassinated.

If you’re strolling through this central area and feel peckish, make the most of it and order a Twisted Mac, Chicken & Cheese. Although if you want to be sure of a table, book in advance and enjoy a set menu at a special price.

Situated on the banks of the Potomac River, this is one of the oldest parts of the city, which was once separated from the centre of Washington. Walking through its cobbled streets lined with mansions and little houses from a bygone era is like taking a trip to a small village with an atmosphere very different from that of Washington’s more monumental areas.

A visit to stroll around or go shopping is a must, but there’s also an alternative way to experience it: you can uncover its mysteries, legends and ghosts on a spooky tour. Discover the hidden stories behind some of its mansions and alleyways.

If you’d like to find out more, check out this article on the Best Tours of Georgetown, Washington DC

During the Civil War, the famous Pennsylvania Avenue, now flanked by historic government buildings, changed dramatically. Back then, bars and brothels sprang up rapidly and the area became a red-light district. The women who ran these businesses played a significant role in society at that time and in certain political matters. If you’d like to find out more, I recommend a specialised tour of this area led by an expert guide who will share interesting anecdotes and stories from this era.

Did you know that around 200,000 people from Ethiopia live in Washington DC? It is the largest community outside Ethiopia. You can get a good sense of this on U Street, where you’ll see their influence in street art, shops and restaurants.

It’s no coincidence that many of the top-rated restaurants in this colourful area are Ethiopian. It’s a key part of the city’s food scene. Has your appetite and curiosity been piqued? I suggest a tour where you’ll explore the area and visit the best-rated restaurants.

Pennsylvania Avenue runs from the White House to the Capitol. Can you imagine everything that has happened on this street over the years, ever since its first president, George Washington? When we talk about politics, there are always other issues running alongside it: corruption, scandals, lies… Sound familiar? Well, yes, no country is spared, and in Washington there are some of the juiciest stories.

If you want to find out about the secret and not-so-secret scandals involving Obama, Trump, Nixon, Kennedy, Reagan, Clinton and more, I recommend you don’t miss this guided tour. It’s absolutely fascinating!

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in the United States. The Washington Nationals are a much-loved team and attending one of their matches is an event in itself. The atmosphere is great fun and exciting. Don’t know the rules of baseball? Don’t worry, they’re very simple. Don’t miss the chance to attend a match – you’ll remember it forever.

You’ve already decided on your trip to this fantastic city and booked your flights. My first recommendation is that you book transfers between the airport and Washington DC. With everything you’ve seen that’s worth visiting, I don’t think you’ll want to waste a single minute of your trip. If you don’t want the hassle of checking all the options, you can always choose this private transport, where the driver will start telling you all about the capital straight away.

Madame Tussauds is a famous museum with branches in the world’s major capitals, showcasing wax replicas of celebrities and recreations of famous scenes. What can you see at Madame Tussauds in Washington DC? Its exhibition is different as it focuses more on history, which is hardly surprising in this city. So if you want to meet the famous, learn something and stroll through the best-known historical displays, don’t miss it.

In the United States, you can find spectacular natural landscapes, particularly due to their sheer scale. Very close to Washington DC, in neighbouring Virginia, you can visit Luray Caverns.

It is an amazing place; you can explore its underground passages and admire the beauty of its stalactites and stalagmites reflected in its crystal-clear waters. The lighting further enhances the beauty that is already there. If you fancy getting out of the city for a day and exploring, do give this trip a go.

This very popular museum authentically showcases the practices of espionage and displays the methods used during the Cold War and the American Civil War, as well as in acts of terrorism. The International Spy Museum is located in the central Penn Quarter neighbourhood. A unique opportunity to learn about the evolution of espionage over the years through artefacts and screenings. If you’re visiting with children or teenagers, they’re sure to enjoy it.

Can you imagine Darth Vader and a raccoon perched atop a cathedral, tirelessly watching over the passers-by below? Put like that, it sounds a bit unusual, but, although it may seem so, this is no hoax. It’s real!

If you visit Washington National Cathedral, you’ll find them adorning the top of the north-west tower, but I warn you that you’ll need a good pair of binoculars to see them clearly. These two peculiar characters were carved onto the exterior of Washington National Cathedral following a children’s competition organised by National Geographic World magazine.

However, another reason to visit this neo-Gothic cathedral in Washington is that it is the sixth-largest cathedral in the world and the second-largest in the United States. From its towers, you’ll enjoy a panoramic view of the city from over 100 metres up—one of the best views of Washington DC.

This monument, located to the south-west of the Lincoln Memorial pond, consists of a series of 19 large statues representing members of the armed forces who fought in the war. The scene created by these sculptures is deeply moving. Next to it is a wall displaying photos of the soldiers who took part and to whom this monumental complex pays tribute. Be sure to visit the Korean War Veterans Memorial when you take a stroll along the National Mall.

The Ford’s Theatre building was constructed in 1833, originally as a church. It was later converted into a theatre and has since endured several disasters. In 1862, it was destroyed by fire; shortly afterwards, in 1865, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated inside; and later, in 1893, part of the building collapsed, claiming several lives.

It has now been renovated, preserving its historic character. It hosts educational events and exhibitions about the night of the assassination that killed Lincoln. You really must visit this place steeped in history. Check the calendar of events on its website.

As you’ll have seen from this list, there’s no shortage of green spaces in Washington. I’d like to recommend one in particular: the botanical garden. It’s very handy, right in the south-west of the Capitol.

There you can see the beautiful Bartholdi Fountain and an open-air collection of a wide variety of exotic plants. You can visit for free any day between 10am and 5pm. This urban oasis will recharge your batteries for the rest of the day.

It is one of the most iconic and representative buildings of power in the United States to see in Washington DC, alongside the Capitol. The White House has been the official residence of the president since 1789, when George Washington decided to establish the country’s capital here and chose a rural plot on the banks of the Potomac River to build an English-style presidential residence.

The best place to view it from the outside and take some photos in front of the fence is on the north side, from Pennsylvania Avenue. It’s the classic image you’ve seen so many times in films!

However, if you wish to visit the interior, a bit of planning is required as you must submit an application via the US Embassy in your home country, and approval can take anywhere from 6 months to 21 days.

If you don’t have time to apply for authorisation, you can always visit the Visitors’ Centre at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue, next to the White House. Here you’ll find several exhibitions about the famous mansion and its illustrious residents, which may interest you if you’re into history. It’s open to the public every day of the week until 4 pm.

The portrait museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution, a renowned network of museums that also focuses on education and research. It is next to the Ford Theatre, right in the city centre. The National Portrait Gallery houses portraits and photographs from all eras and in various techniques, depicting the faces of artists, politicians, scientists… A different way to explore history from ancient times to the present day.

The city’s Zoo is in the north. Why not pop in for a stroll? It’s one of the best-rated zoos. Enjoy the special events organised throughout the year, educational activities and, of course, admire the more than 1,500 animals that live there. Entry is free but you must book in advance. Check out the activities on their website and spend an entertaining afternoon there.

This museum, just a few minutes from the Capitol, will catch your eye even from a distance thanks to its spectacular modern façade with curved edges. Inside the National Museum of the American Indian, you can see an exhibition that reflects the origins and evolution of the many indigenous peoples of the Americas. Don’t leave without taking a look; what’s more, entry is free. You’re sure to be impressed. Oh! I recommend the buffet restaurant inside.

This gallery, situated next to the White House, is one of the most important venues for contemporary art. The interior of the Renwick Gallery is very sophisticated and elegant, which contrasts beautifully with its exhibition of modern art objects and paintings.

Both its permanent and temporary collections are usually full of colour and surprise visitors. It isn’t a very large museum, so it’s perfect to fit into your walk around the White House area. You’re sure to take some great photos.

This centre is a prime spot for photos as it sits right on the banks of the River Potomac. Depending on where you look at it from, it seems to float on the river. It was built in honour of John F. Kennedy and is a truly multidisciplinary venue, housing several theatres, an opera house, a concert hall and other spaces dedicated to the arts. There’s even a jazz club.

Check the programme at the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts to find a show to attend, or simply pop in to admire its magnificent interior.

Are you a fan of the world-famous nature, history and science magazine? You’re in luck, because right in the city centre you can visit the National Geographic Museum. It displays its best photographs as well as historical exhibits. Visit their website to keep up to date with temporary exhibitions. Step inside and take a journey through world history.

This market has been in operation since as far back as 1873. If you happen to be there on a Sunday, pop in to browse the antiques and crafts, discover local produce and grab a bite to eat at one of its many stalls. In the surrounding area, you’ll find other neighbouring markets, creating a traditional and festive atmosphere. You’ll feel just like a local. Take a look at their website for more information.

This museum of decorative arts is located in a mansion in the northern part of the city, where Rock Creek, an impressive park, begins. This is Hillwood Estate. It is known for its collection of French and Russian works, including some of the famous Fabergé eggs.

The exhibition isn’t limited to the works on display but also extends to the mansion’s luxurious rooms and gardens. These feature a large collection of orchids and exotic plants. Being a little further from the city centre, it is a haven of peace where you can quietly enjoy a garden-museum that transports you to another era.

If you like live music and nightlife, I definitely recommend you head to the 9:30 Club. Open since the 80s, it’s one of the most famous live music venues in America. Greats such as the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Bob Dylan and Adele have played there… The venue has great acoustics. A tip: if you arrive early, you can sit in the upstairs area, which has better views. Check out their website for the gig schedule and have a brilliant night out.

There are plenty of reasons to visit this park. This urban oasis boasts numerous walking trails, a golf course, an amphitheatre and a range of other recreational activities. Rock Creek Park was founded in 1890 with this very idea in mind: as a place of respite and entertainment for the city’s residents.

Why not explore it on foot or by bike and have a picnic? You’ll even be able to see the stars in broad daylight, as one of its facilities is a planetarium. Here’s another thing: there’s a hidden Civil War fort called Fort DeRussy. To find it, you’ll have to ask about it, but be warned, not many people know about it.

This gallery, also known as the Asian Museum, is located on the National Mall. It houses ancient artefacts from various parts of Asia, such as ceramics, manuscripts, screens, sculptures and paintings. If you go, you’ll be amazed by the Peacock Room, a room decorated entirely in gold and blue, considered a masterpiece.

Its exterior features a beautiful Italian Renaissance-style façade with large arches. Inside, you can enter a hidden underground gallery. Entry is free and it’s a quick visit – well worth it!

Thomas Jefferson is considered one of the most influential figures in the founding of the United States of America. You can visit his memorial in a lovely part of the city, on the riverbank in the Tidal Basin. If you go in spring, you’ll see it surrounded by cherry blossoms. The monument itself is worth a photo thanks to its many columns and dome, spectacular both by day and illuminated at night.

This market, featuring food stalls from around the world, is very popular with the people of Washington DC. If you’re a foodie, I recommend you visit it, as it’s like a showcase of the most varied styles of food. Including local fare, of course. The hard part will be choosing.

In the Union Market District, as well as great food, you’ll find art and culture. When the weather’s nice, there are outdoor tables too. It’s not a place that’s very popular with tourists, so make the most of the opportunity and enjoy a meal in the best atmosphere.

In the north of the city lies this lovely rectangular park with a beautiful staircase and waterfall. A very peaceful and beautiful spot to treat yourself to some time in nature and recharge your batteries. In Meridian Hill Park, there are several sculptures you’ll come across on your walk. Here’s a fun fact: one of them is Joan of Arc on horseback with a sword. However, you’ll only be able to see her empty hand, as the sword has been stolen, and this keeps happening every time they replace it.

Have you set yourself the goal of visiting all the museums of the Smithsonian Institution? There are 11 of them just along the sides of the National Mall. At least they’re close to one another! One of them is the National Museum of American History. It’s really entertaining; you can even see everything from Batman’s car to the hat Lincoln was wearing on the day of his assassination.

If you’re interested in a journey through American history, you shouldn’t miss this museum; the collection of curious objects will surprise you. Check their website to keep up to date with their activities.

If you love war films or are a history buff, I recommend visiting Gettysburg National Park. It was here, during the Civil War, that the Battle of Gettysburg took place in 1863; it lasted just three days but was one of the bloodiest battles of the war.

Today it is a national park that preserves information about this period of war through tours, a museum and a visitor centre, as well as tributes and monuments to the fallen. A visit that will not leave you unmoved.

This exhibition is located south of the National Mall. The immersive experience offered by Artechouse will transport you out of reality and into a colourful future world in a unique experience. If you’re visiting with the family, this is sure to be an outing that everyone will enjoy.

As you’ve seen, this city is full of tributes. Another one I recommend you visit is the United States Navy Memorial. It’s located in a square on Pennsylvania Avenue, north of the National Mall. This building is entirely dedicated to honouring the Navy and naval veterans through an exhibition of artefacts, sculptures, documents and more. Make sure to include it in your visit to expand your collection of memorials.

This museum illustrates the different phases of the Nazi Holocaust through its collection of artefacts, photographs and screenings. It also commemorates the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. It has an extensive permanent collection and various temporary exhibitions , which you can check on its website:

. The museum’s educational and informative work is particularly noteworthy, as it makes visitors feel part of the experience. Do go and see it; it won’t leave you unmoved.

To the north-east of the city centre stands this impressive, enormous basilica, inaugurated in 1959. It ranks among the 10 largest in the world. That, combined with its colourful dome, will leave you speechless. Its equally spectacular interior is well worth a visit, with its stained-glass windows, mosaics and paintings. An essential visit.

The Hirshhorn Museum exhibits modern and contemporary art and can be visited on the National Mall. You’ll recognise it from the outside as it lacks the neoclassical style of its neighbouring museums; on the contrary, its circular façade stands out from the rest.
You’ll love its collection of alternative art, and there’s also a surprise outside. Step inside to stroll through the garden and you’ll find an open-air exhibition of large sculptures in various styles that you’ll adore.

The first building of the Smithsonian Institution is also known as the Castle. It is situated in the centre of the National Mall and you’ll recognise it by its red brick. It was established as an institution for research and public outreach, and from there all the museums that now form part of the organisation began to be created.

Pop in and find out more at its visitor centre about its history and that of its neighbouring museums. It’s a great way to start your tour of the most cultural area of Washington DC.

The Phillips Museum has been in existence since 1921 and was highly innovative in its day, as it has always exhibited works by the most modern and avant-garde artists. Its galleries also feature great classics such as Renoir, Cézanne, Picasso and many more.

It’s located in the lovely Dupont Circle neighbourhood. So make the most of it and pop in for a look when you’re passing by. You’re sure to enjoy the visit; it’s one of the world’s most highly regarded art museums.

The renowned activist Martin Luther King championed the civil rights of the Black community in the United States, and his struggle was pivotal.

On the banks of the Tidal Basin, near where he delivered his famous speech beginning with “I have a dream”, there is a monument you mustn’t miss. It is an impressive statue standing almost 10 metres tall. You’ll love it just as much by day, thanks to its location in the park surrounded by cherry trees, as you will by night, with its beautiful lighting.

In a big city like Washington DC, which offers so much to see and do, it can all feel a bit overwhelming. But to avoid feeling overwhelmed, I recommend planning your itineraries carefully so you can make the most of your trip. As a tip, I suggest getting a tourist pass.

The Washington Sightseeing Pass is a great option if you want to save money, as it offers discounts of up to 60% on many attractions and saves you time by letting you skip the long queues for tickets to the monuments.

If you’d like to find out more, take a look at this article on the Washington Sightseeing Pass