Top 15 Things to do in Washington, DC

Are you on the hunt for a list of the best things you can do in Washington, DC? Well, not only do I have that list, but I have personally done each activity and can vouch for how awesome these experiences are!

We have visited DC tons of times over the years. We’re not even Americans, and that’s how fascinating we find it! We understand that it’s a bucket list destination for many, and doing it right is a big concern.

Especially if this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience for you, we want you to come away having done everything you wanted and more. So keep reading, because I’ll cover the best things to do and some handy tips to make it a perfect trip.

Washington, D.C. at a Glance

Washington, D.C., is an incredible city to explore, but a few local tips can make your trip much smoother. From planning around busy times to knowing how much walking is involved, these are the things we’ve found most helpful after multiple visits.

Bring comfy shoes: There are countless monuments, memorials, and landmarks to see in DC. Make sure your feet are considered when walking between sights! 

Avoid traveling during rush hour: The metro, car traffic, buses—it’s all congested during the morning and evening commute around DC. It’s best to plan tours and travel around general commute times: 9 am and 5 pm.

Take advantage of night activities: D.C. can get quite hot during the summer, and very busy! There are a handful of evening/nighttime tours that we found to be a fantastic respite from the temperatures and crowds. Don’t miss them!

How I would spend 3 days in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is a city filled with iconic monuments, world-class museums, fascinating history, and incredible food. In just three days, you can experience the best of the capital, but planning your itinerary wisely helps you make the most of your time so you don’t get too worn out. After multiple visits, this is how we’d spend three days exploring Washington, D.C.

🏛️ Day 1: D.C. Sightseeing Tour & Dupont Circle

See DC’s top monuments, memorials, and landmarks on a full-day guided sightseeing tour, then explore Dupont Circle before ending the night with a show at the DC Improv Club.

🏫 Day 2: Museums, US Capitol, Library of Congress & The Wharf

Visit one or two of DC’s world-class museums, enjoy lunch at the oldest restaurant in DC, join this small-group tour of the US Capitol and Library of Congress, then spend the evening at The Wharf.

🪦 Day 3: Arlington National Cemetery, Georgetown & Monuments Night Tour

Visit Arlington National Cemetery and see the Changing of the Guard, explore Georgetown with stops like the Old Stone House, C&O Canal, and Washington Harbor, then finish with this nighttime monuments tour we loved.

See exactly how we’d spend 3 days in Washington, DC here!

Things to do in Washington, DC

1. Tour the United States Capitol

The US Capitol building is the seat of Congress, and it’s one of the most iconic buildings in the country. You need a tour to enter the building, and while there are many Capitol tours available, this 3-hour small-group tour is the best of the bunch!

Many decisions that have shaped the US have been made here, and it’s the core of the country’s political power. The Capitol is recognizable by its imposing dome, but unlike the White House, it’s easy to go inside and explore! 

This tour offers reserved entry to the building, so there’s no waiting around (your legs will thank you). Your knowledgeable guides will teach you all about the historic sections of the building as you walk through.

You’ll also get to visit the Library of Congress, which is the biggest library in the world! You’ll see a portion of Thomas Jefferson’s original personal library (although much of it was destroyed by a fire in 1851) and learn about how civilians can make use of the resources here, too. I mean, even politicians don’t need 39 million books at once, do they? 

The best part is that the tour has a maximum of 15 participants, so it feels quite personal and not too crowded! As a bonus, you can upgrade the tour to include a visit to the Folger Shakespeare Library, which houses the world’s largest Shakespeare collection. 

See what over 2,000 people are raving about – you can’t go wrong with this tour. 

2. Go on the best sightseeing tour in DC

A sightseeing tour is always a great way to get acquainted with a new city, but especially one with as many memorials, statues, and political landmarks as Washington, D.C. This guided sightseeing tour packs a lot in one day while still giving you enough time to wander and appreciate the moment. 

You’ll get to see so much, including the Roosevelt, National WWII, Martin Luther King Jr., and Lincoln memorials. You’ll also visit the White House and the Capitol Building! If it’s in the warmer seasons (April-mid October), you will even get to experience a Potomac River Cruise for the full Washington, D.C. effect.

Plus, rather than simply driving past everything, you’ll hop off at many of Washington’s most famous landmarks, giving you plenty of time to take photos and explore each site up close. Your guide will also keep you entertained with fascinating stories, historical facts, and plenty of fun trivia along the way. It feels much more meaningful than simply walking past the monuments on your own.

There’s not much better than traveling through the city on an air-conditioned bus when the weather is hot and sticky during the summer months. And, of course, in the winters, it makes it much more comfy! 

With countless monuments, memorials, and landmarks, this guided tour is one of the best ways to experience Washington, D.C.—it’s no wonder it has over 3,000 5-star reviews! 

3. Spend time on the Wharf

Sometimes, you just need a break from monuments and government buildings. That’s why I always recommend spending some time at The Wharf, DC’s lively waterfront district along the Potomac River. With its marina, scenic boardwalk, waterfront restaurants, and buzzing atmosphere, it’s one of those places that almost makes you forget you’re in the middle of the nation’s capital.

We love strolling along the waterfront, watching the boats come and go, and soaking up the atmosphere. There’s almost always something happening here, whether it’s live music drifting from restaurant patios, seasonal festivals, or summer events like the free Rock the Dock concerts on a floating stage.

As an avid seafood lover, my biggest highlight is the historic Municipal Fish Market. It’s the oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the U.S., and grabbing a few freshly shucked Chesapeake Bay oysters is a must.

Before dinner, I always pop into Made in DC for locally made souvenirs, then head to Del Mar for a delicious meal overlooking the water. If you’re not in a rush, grab one of the Adirondack chairs that line the piers and watch the sunset over the marina—it’s one of my favorite ways to end a day in Washington, D.C.

3. Take an after-dark monuments tour

Even if you see all the famous monuments during the day, doing this after-dark tour is still so worth it! Instead of spending hours at the most popular landmarks with big crowds and midday heat, you’ll have the luxury of fewer lines and cooler air at night. Seeing these iconic landmarks beautifully illuminated gives them a completely different atmosphere, making the city feel even more impressive after sunset.

The tour took us to all of the city’s must-see sights, and we got roughly a 15-minute guided stop at each one. Visiting the White House, the Capitol, and six different memorials, we learned even more about them, and they were truly epic to see all lit up at night! Plus, you’ll have plenty of time and space to snap some photos without having a background of people in the frame. 

You can choose between an enclosed air-conditioned bus or pay a little extra for the glass-top convertible bus (which I thought was well worth the upgrade!). It’s a larger group tour of up to 50 people, but I actually think that’s part of the fun. Everyone is excited to see the monuments illuminated after dark, and that energy is contagious. Both buses depart daily from the US Navy Memorial Plaza at 7:30 pm, regardless of which option you choose.

Seeing DC transform after dark makes it feel like a completely different city, and the combination of fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and beautifully lit landmarks makes this tour unforgettable. We aren’t the only ones who loved it—check out over 7,000 5-star reviews here!

5. Tour the Smithsonian Big Three

The Smithsonian is made up of 21 museums, so deciding where to start can feel overwhelming. If you’re short on time, this guided highlights tour takes all the guesswork out of it! Instead of trying to find your way through three massive museums on your own, you’ll follow an expert guide who takes you straight to the good stuff.

The tour kicks off at the National Museum of American History, where you’ll come face-to-face with some seriously iconic pieces, from Abraham Lincoln’s famous top hat to Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz. Having a guide share the stories behind these artifacts makes the experience even more memorable (and way more fun than wandering around on your own!).

Next, you’ll head to the National Museum of Natural History. Standing beneath those towering dinosaur fossils is truly incredible. You’ll learn more about America’s ancient history and see the legendary Hope Diamond!

The tour finishes at the National Air and Space Museum, where your reserved entry lets you skip the lines and make the most of your visit. You’ll see the original Wright Flyer and Apollo 11 artifacts while hearing the stories that bring these incredible moments in history to life.

You can expect about a mile (about 1.6 km) of walking as you move between museums, but the pace is comfortable with plenty of stops along the way. In just three hours, you’ll cover three of DC’s most visited museums and leave with a better understanding of the Smithsonian’s biggest treasures without feeling overwhelmed by it all. 

6. Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and watch the Changing of the Guard

Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most moving places to visit in Washington, D.C. While you can certainly explore it on your own, joining this guided tour gives you a much deeper appreciation for the stories, traditions, and sacrifices that have shaped this national landmark.

As the final resting place of more than 400,000 service members, veterans, and notable Americans, including President John F. Kennedy, every section of the cemetery has a story to tell. Along the way, you’ll visit highlights like JFK’s gravesite and the Eternal Flame while your guide shares the history behind the people buried here and the traditions that continue today.

One of the tour’s highlights is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which honors the unidentified American service members who lost their lives in war. Standing before it is a humbling reminder of the sacrifices made by those who gave everything for their country. It’s a powerful memorial, made even more meaningful when you learn the history behind it.

During the summer, you can watch the Changing of the Guard every half an hour, so it’s an ideal time to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. It’s such a precise and solemn ritual, and it’s very interesting to watch.

This isn’t a super long tour, but it definitely leaves a lasting impression. Whether you’re interested in American history, military service, or simply want a deeper understanding of Arlington National Cemetery, this tour is great for getting insight you wouldn’t get by exploring on your own.

5. Explore DC’s African American History

We like this African-American history tour because it offers so much more than you’ll ever read in a textbook! The contributions, struggles, and achievements of African Americans aren’t always explored in school or on many of the city’s sightseeing tours. This tour fills those gaps, sharing lesser-known stories and tracing the fight for civil rights and the lasting impact African Americans have had on the nation.

You’ll begin at the National Council of Negro Women before visiting the U.S. Capitol and the White House. Along the way, you’ll learn about the vital role African Americans played in building these landmarks and how their contributions shaped the nation’s history, culminating in the inauguration of President Barack Obama, the country’s first African American president.

You’ll also visit the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and other important sites that shaped African American history. 

What makes this tour unique is its focus on lesser-visited sites, allowing you to discover hidden gems while seeing even more of DC along the way. My favorite sight was the Howard Theatre and hearing about the rise of African American performers like Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald, and Marvin Gaye. It was a powerful reminder of the stories and history that are often overlooked.

This history tour ends at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where you’ll explore how African Americans have shaped US history. With incredible artifacts and stories spanning generations, it’s the perfect final stop to bring everything you learned throughout the tour full circle.

8. Take a water taxi to Alexandria

Washington, DC, is packed with enough monuments, museums, and memorials to fill several days. But beyond the famous sights, there are charming nearby neighborhoods worth exploring. One of my favorites is Old Town Alexandria, a historic waterfront escape that’s just a short ride away by bright yellow water taxi.

Instead of the fast-paced energy of DC, you’ll find beautifully preserved historic homes, brick sidewalks, and locally owned shops. It’s a slower pace that feels like the perfect change after busy days of sightseeing in the city. Spend some time wandering King Street, the heart of Old Town Alexandria, where you’ll find charming cafes, boutiques, galleries, and plenty of places to stop along the way.

Getting to Old Town Alexandria is easy, and the water taxi is half the fun! With multiple departures throughout the day, you can easily find a time that works with your itinerary. I found booking online ahead of time was the easiest way to check schedules and secure a spot.

The boat itself is a great way to take in the sights! Sit up top in the open air to get the full effect as you cross the Potomac River. The ride takes about 30 minutes in total, and it’s entirely smooth sailing. 

9. Brunch cruise on the Potomac River

In some parts of the world, brunch just means a combined breakfast and lunch. But in the US, brunch means a party! What better way to experience this than on this Premier Brunch Cruise in Washington, D.C.?

After boarding the yacht at Gangplank Marina, you’ll make your way to a private table before setting off on a two-hour cruise along the Potomac River. As the boat glides past the waterfront, you’ll have front-row views of famous landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, the US Capitol, and Arlington House.

The yacht’s big windows make it easy to see the scenery from inside, and there’s also an open-air deck to snap a few photos and take in the fresh air (or hot, humid air depending on the time of year!)

The onboard buffet has a huge selection of breakfast and lunch items, along with salads, desserts, coffee, tea, and my personal favorite—the bottomless mimosas! Throughout the cruise, a live DJ keeps the energy super lively, and there are even two dance floors to work off some of your boozy brunch! 

It’s a great mix of sightseeing, dining, and entertainment all in one experience. Whether you’re visiting DC for the first time or looking for something different to do, this cruise is a fun way to relax, enjoy a delicious brunch, and see many of DC’s landmarks along the water!

10. International Spy Museum

Ready to channel your inner James Bond? The International Spy Museum is one of DC’s most interactive attractions, and it’s far more than your typical museum. Admission is $38 USD per adult, and it’s easily one of the most memorable museum experiences in Washington, D.C.

Right from the start, you’re pulled into the world of espionage by creating your own undercover identity before diving into exhibits filled with real-life spy stories and gadgets.

As you explore, you’ll see hidden cameras, coded messages, disguises, surveillance equipment, and tools that intelligence agencies actually used. The exhibits cover everything from Cold War operations to current cyber espionage, giving you a glimpse into how spies gathered information and carried out secret missions.

What makes this museum so much fun is that you’re not just reading display signs or viewing things from afar. I love the interactive exhibits that make you think like a spy as you move through the galleries. It’s a rare museum experience where you’re learning, participating, and having fun at the same time!

11. Private sightseeing tour

Sometimes, tours can get a little crowded. Cool facts get missed, and there’s less of the fun, personal banter and insight from guides. That’s why we prefer a more personalized experience of DC with this half-day private tour!  

You’ll get to wander all of the main monuments, memorials, and political buildings, but you’ll be in a luxury SUV with just your group. It’s a perfect option for a smaller family or friend group. A private tour also means that you can tailor the itinerary to your interests and spend more time exploring the places you want to see most. 

Once you’re picked up in a cushy Cadillac from your hotel, your guide and driver let you call the shots on where to go, what to see, and what curiosities you have. Typical stopping points include the outside grounds of the White House, the US Capitol Building, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Memorial, but you can truly pick and choose whatever you’d like to spend more time with. 

We love this option for true history buffs who will naturally have more questions and desire to linger a little longer. This is your chance to lay it on a local expert and not feel rushed! 

If you want to explore Washington, D.C. at your own pace without feeling rushed or tied to a large group, this private tour is hard to beat. It comes highly recommended, with over 1,500 glowing reviews you can check out here!

Related Read: For help building the perfect Washington, DC itinerary, check out our detailed 3-day guide here with tips, times, must-dos, hidden gems, and more!

12. U.S. National Arboretum

I love a good break from museums and busy streets to “touch grass,” as they say. When visiting DC, the U.S. National Arboretum is my favorite place to do exactly that. This sprawling botanical garden and living tree museum is one of the most peaceful places to visit in the city, offering a quiet escape from the crowds.

Spread across hundreds of acres, it’s the perfect place to slow down and wander at your own pace. Walking paths wind past ponds, flowering landscapes, and collections of trees from around the world. You can easily spend a couple of hours wandering beneath towering trees, crossing quiet bridges, and discovering tucked-away corners without feeling like you’re in the middle of a major city.

One of the biggest highlights is the National Capitol Columns, a set of 22 massive Corinthian columns that once stood on the east portico of the U.S. Capitol. Seeing them standing alone in the middle of the arboretum is surprisingly striking, and it’s easily one of the most unique photo spots in Washington, D.C.

The best part? Admission is totally free, and you don’t need a ticket to enter the arboretum or the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum. Whether you’re looking to escape the crowds, enjoy a peaceful walk, or simply see a different side of Washington, D.C, this is one of the city’s most underrated attractions.

13. Visit the National Archives on a combo sightseeing tour

If you only have one day to explore Washington, D.C., this combo tour is one of the easiest ways to see the city’s biggest highlights without worrying about transportation or planning your route. The guide takes care of all the logistics, so you can simply relax, enjoy the sights, and learn the stories behind each stop.

One of the biggest perks of this tour is that you don’t just drive past Washington’s famous landmarks. You’ll have reserved entry to the U.S. Capitol, where you’ll learn how Congress works while exploring one of the country’s most iconic buildings. Throughout the day, the coach also stops at highlights like the White House and the Lincoln Memorial, giving you time to stretch your legs, take photos, and hear the fascinating stories behind each site.

Depending on the time of year, you’ll either enjoy a relaxing cruise along the Potomac River or continue sightseeing by coach, passing landmarks like the Pentagon before stopping for lunch.

One of the tour’s biggest highlights is a visit to the National Archives. Seeing the original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights is an experience that’s hard to forget. Even if you’re not a huge history fan, it’s hard not to be impressed standing just a few feet away from the documents that helped shape the nation.

If you want to see the biggest highlights of D.C. in one day, this tour makes it simple.

14. Wander around Georgetown

While you’re in DC, don’t miss Georgetown, one of the city’s most charming and historic neighborhoods. With cobblestone streets, waterfront views, and a mix of boutiques, restaurants, and landmarks, it’s the perfect place to slow down and experience a different side of the city.

Start by exploring the Old Stone House, the oldest unchanged building in Washington, D.C., dating back to 1766. This free historic site offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s colonial past, with small exhibits and a peaceful garden tucked behind the house.

From there, soak up Georgetown’s timeless atmosphere at Martin’s Tavern, a local institution that has welcomed everyone from politicians to famous visitors since 1933. If you’d rather explore Georgetown through its food scene, this small-group food walking tour is another great option, taking you to some of the neighborhood’s best culinary spots while sampling local favorites and hidden gems along the way.

Then, take a relaxing stroll along the C&O Canal, a historic waterway turned scenic walking path that offers a quiet escape from the busy city streets. To finish your visit, head to Washington Harbor for a scenic Capitol River Cruise along the Potomac. Seeing DC’s famous landmarks from the water is a beautiful way to end your time in one of the city’s most beloved neighborhoods.

15. Explore the monuments on a bike tour

If you want a fun way to see a lot of Washington, D.C., without spending the whole day walking, hop on this bike tour! In just three hours, you’ll cover plenty of ground while riding through some of the city’s most famous landmarks. 

Along the way, you’ll stop at major sights like the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court, and several of D.C.’s most iconic memorials, including the Jefferson Memorial and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Your guide shares fascinating stories at each stop, so it feels much more like a sightseeing experience than simply riding around the city.

Plus, the tour is limited to 15 people, which keeps the group small and gives you plenty of time to ask questions. The ride itself is easy, and since Washington, D.C. is one of the most bike-friendly cities in the country, you don’t need to be an experienced cyclist to enjoy it. 

I will say, though, if you’re visiting during the summer, be ready for the heat because you’ll definitely work up a sweat! Even so, we still think it’s one of the best ways to explore the city. 

If you’d rather take it easy, you can upgrade to an e-bike and let the motor do some of the work. We stuck with regular bikes, but looking back, an e-bike probably would’ve made riding in the summer heat a little more comfortable.

If you’re looking for a great alternative to walking the sites of DC, this bike tour is a great option! 

Where to Stay in Washington, DC

Now that you’ve found the best things to do in Washington, DC, you’ll probably need a place to stay! This city has loads of options. To help you narrow it down, we’ve highlighted our top choices. We’ve included everything from budget hostels to luxurious hotels, so you’re bound to find something you like!

Pendry Washington DC – $$$

For the ultimate luxury and convenience, opt for the Pendry Washington DC. This 5-star hotel has free bikes, an outdoor pool, a hot tub, a fitness center, a rooftop bar, and a large terrace overlooking the wharf. Plus, it’s just a 5-minute walk to the docking port for river cruises if you decide to add one to your itinerary (you might even see your boat from your window!). The rooms are spacious, modern, and super comfortable.

There’s a wide range of room options, ranging from $260 USD to over $1,000 USD, depending on what you choose. However, you’ll find the best deals when you book your stay in advance.

Hotel Madera – $$

Hotel Madera is a great mid-range accommodation in the heart of DC. You can have a taste of American comfort food and cocktails at their on-site restaurant – or grab a complimentary glass of wine at the bar. It’s located close to many bars and restaurants and is just a 5-minute walk to Dupont Circle. Rooms are quite large and well-equipped, and some come with balconies to view the city.

Prices start at $200 USD, which is a great value for what you get! Snag this deal by booking online here.

CitizenM – $

We were totally surprised (in the best way) by how much personality citizenM Washington DC Capitol has. It’s got a bold, creative vibe from the moment you walk in, with cozy lounges, colorful decor, and a rooftop bar that offers stunning views for days. 

The location couldn’t be better either—just a few blocks from the National Mall and less than a 10-minute walk to the metro. It’s the perfect base for exploring without needing to splurge. The rooms are small, but also super smart.

Rooms here usually run between $160 and $250 USD per night, which is a steal for the location and experience. Check prices and book it here!

Related Read: For a full breakdown of the best areas and hotels in Washington, DC, check out our detailed Where to Stay guide!

Thanks for reading!

Wow, that’s quite a list of all the best things to do in Washington, DC! Whether you have the time to do them all in one visit or pick a couple of top favorites, we hope this guide helps you have a perfect trip. There’s just so much history here and so much to see!

Before you set off to DC, have a look through our blogs for more ideas. Check out the rest of our guides for traveling through the US or even traveling around the world. Here are a few popular ones linked below for you:

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