Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Washington DC

We've collected top 10 mentioned things to do in Washington DC from other articles such as lyft.com, Busy Tourist, TripHobo, including activities with kids, adult only attractions, cheap and free events

Top 10 Things To Do, Activities and Attractions in Washington DC

Lincoln Memorial
Lincoln Memorial
4.8 (42744 ratings)4.5 (29180 ratings)
Parthenon-inspired tribute to Abraham Lincoln with a 19-ft. marble statue, murals & reflecting pool.
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20002, USA
MonumentSights & LandmarksHistorical placeHistorical landmarkMemorial parkMonuments & Statues
Mentioned by Lonely Planet Top Choices
Top things to do in Washington, DC, USA
"Anchoring the Mall's west end is the hallowed shrine to Abraham Lincoln, who gazes across the Reflecting Pool beneath his neoclassical, Doric-columned abode. The words of his Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural speech flank the huge marble statue on the north and south walls. On the steps, Martin Luther King Jr delivered his famed 'I Have a Dream' speech; look for the engraving that marks the spot (it's on the landing 18 stairs from the top)."
Mentioned by viator.com
THE TOP 10 Things To Do in Washington DC | Attractions & Activities
"A 19-foot-tall (5.7-meter-tall) marble statue of President Abraham Lincoln dominates the Lincoln Memorial, situated at the edge of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool on the National Mall in Washington DC. The most visited National Park Service site in the city is an homage to the 16th president of the United States, who helped to preserve the Union during the Civil War and delivered the Gettysburg Address and the Emancipation Proclamation.More"
Mentioned by Washington DC 3 days itinerary
Comprehensive Washington DC Itinerary for 3 Days Exploring
"Looking at the reflection of the Washington Monument in the Reflecting Pool from the top of the stairs at the Lincoln Memorial is a memory you won’t forget. Washington DC Itinerary: Day 2"
Washington Monument
Washington Monument
4.7 (16266 ratings)4.5 (8737 ratings)
Landmark obelisk rising from the National Mall that honors America's first president.
2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
MonumentSights & LandmarksLandmarkMonuments & Statues
Mentioned by Nomadic Real Estate
5 Must Visit DC Landmarks For Everyone
"A short distance south of the White House is the Washington Monument, a structure built in the mid-1800s to honor the United States’ first president, George Washington. The monument is the world’s tallest stone structure and, at one point from 1884 to 1889, was the tallest structure on the planet. Visitors can go inside the Washington Monument with a ticket."
Mentioned by planetware.com
18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington, D.C. | PlanetWare
"The 555-foot white shaft of the Washington Monument is a familiar icon of the National Mall, and a beautiful sight, especially when mirrored in the long Reflecting Pool at its foot. Construction of the obelisk to honor the nation's first president did not proceed smoothly. The plan was approved by Congress in 1783, but ground wasn't broken until 1848."
Mentioned by Lonely Planet
Must see attractions in Washington, DC, USA
"Peaking at 555ft (and 5in) and composed of 36,000 blocks of stone, the Washington Monument is the district's tallest structure. Political shenanigans followed by the Civil War interrupted its construction."
United States Capitol
United States Capitol
4.6 (4204 ratings)4.5 (6250 ratings)
Iconic, domed classical building housing the U.S. Senate & House of Representatives, open for tours.
First St SE, Washington, DC 20004, USA
Federal government officeSights & LandmarksHistorical placeHistorical landmarkLandmarkGovernment Buildings
Mentioned by The Denver Post
10 places off the beaten path to see art in Washington, D.C.
"The Capitol building is a relic to behold in of itself, with its royal blue and deep brick Minton tiles and embellished bronze-cast doors. Marble and bronze statues of such luminaries as Rosa Parks and Helen Keller, the latter commemorated in a tactile sculpture that visitors can touch for its Braille writing, flank the building’s Emancipation and National Statuary Halls. Constantino Brumidi’s famed 1865 fresco, “Apotheosis of Washington,” illuminates the eye of the Capitol’s rotunda 180 feet above ground, depicting President George Washington rising toward the heavens among Greek and Roman gods."
Mentioned by viator.com
THE TOP 10 Things To Do in Washington DC | Attractions & Activities
"The U.S. Capitol dome towers above the Roman columns and manicured gardens of this iconic heart of American government. Topped by the bronze Statue of Freedom, the Capitol is the political and geographic center of Washington D.C. The building houses the legislative branch of Congress, with the Senate meeting in the north wing and the House of Representatives in the south wing. When Congress is in session, visitors can watch politicians debate all flavors of legislative issues, as they’ve done here since 1800.More"
Mentioned by Washington DC 1 day itinerary
One Day Tour Itinerary in Washington, DC
"Take a tour of the U.S. Capitol Building and see the Hall of Columns, the rotunda, and the old Supreme Court chambers. From the visitors’ gallery, you can watch bills being debated, votes being counted, and speeches being given. Tours of the Capitol are free; however, tour passes are required."
Library of Congress
Library of Congress
4.7 (1262 ratings)4.5 (8468 ratings)
This federal cultural institution is the world's biggest library & features tours, talks & concerts.
101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540, USA
Law librarySights & LandmarksLibraryGovernment Buildings
Mentioned by Busy Tourist
68 Best & Fun Things To Do In Washington, DC
"With more than 167 million items, the Library of Congress is the second-largest library in the world. Its shelves hold everything from rare, fragile books to contemporary recordings for popular music. It also boasts maps, manuscripts, photographs, paintings, murals, news reels, sheet music and just about everything else that a seeker of knowledge could want."
Mentioned by Washington DC 2 days itinerary
Two Days in Washington DC: A 48 Hour Itinerary
"The Library of Congress is a "must see" attraction as it is a beautiful neoclassical building and the world’s largest library containing more than 128 million items including books, manuscripts, films, photographs, sheet music, and maps. It is open to the public and offers exhibitions, interactive displays, concerts, films, lectures and special events."
Mentioned by Attractions of America
Washington D.C. Top 45 Attractions
"The grand architecture of the Library of Congress makes it a must-see Washington, DC tourist attraction for anyone interested in the history and architecture of old buildings. It is also a must-see for anyone who loves art or books as the building has plenty of both to look at. The Library of Congress offers self-guided tours at the moment."
The White House
The White House
4 (7537 ratings)
Landmark, historic home & office of the United States president, with tours for visitors.
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500, USA
Federal government officeSights & LandmarksGovernment officeHistorical placeHistorical landmarkGovernment Buildings
Mentioned by Washington DC 2 days itinerary
Two Days in Washington DC: A 48 Hour Itinerary
"Explore the world-famous museums and national memorials on the National Mall, see the iconic government buildings (the White House, U.S. Capitol, and Supreme Court) and check out the local food, arts and culture, history, or shopping destinations. Weekends are often busy, so be sure to check the schedule of events and know what to expect. Here is a two-day itinerary to help you plan ahead, determine what you really want to see and set your own personal priorities. Note, you will need to book a few tours in advance."
Mentioned by Lonely Planet
Must see attractions in Washington, DC, USA
"Play image association with the words “ Washington, DC, ” and chances are the first thing that comes to mind is the White House. The president’s pad is likely to take your breath away the first time you see it,... Top ChoiceMuseum in Upper Northwest DC"
Dumbarton House
Dumbarton House
4.3 (129 ratings)4 (44 ratings)
Early 19th-century house featuring Federal-period architecture, decorative arts & furnishings.
2715 Q St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
MuseumSights & LandmarksEvent venueHistorical landmarkHistory museumWedding venueArchitectural BuildingsHistoric Sites
Mentioned by Museum Hack
Museums in Washington DC: The Complete List (2020
"Located in Washington DC's Georgetown neighborhood, Dumbarton House is a Federal-style house from around 1800. The museum's collection includes 1,000+ pieces of furniture, paintings, textiles, silver, and ceramics primarily from the Federal period, 1789 to 1825, as well as, a manuscript and document collection including journals, account books, and letters that together document nearly 300 years of Nourse family life."
Bon Air Park Rose Garden
Bon Air Park Rose Garden
4.7 (656 ratings)5 (22 ratings)
Elaborate formal gardens featuring roses & ornamental trees, a popular site for wedding photos.
850 N Lexington St, Arlington, VA 22205, USA
ParkNature & Parks
Mentioned by StayArlington, VA
4 Parks Visitors Will Love - Stay Arlington
"This old-school park is an English-style rose garden hidden away in Arlington. It has a spectacular range of roses (more than 130 varieties), each one carefully identified. They’re all neatly arranged, interspersed with walking paths, benches, and trellises."
Mentioned by Northern Virginia Magazine
Public Parks
"Home to the gorgeous Memorial Rose Garden, this park is a frequent site for wedding photos. Enjoy the beauty of the azalea, shade, sun, and ornamental tree gardens, and have fun on the playgrounds, sports courts, and picnic areas."
Meridian Hill Park
Meridian Hill Park
4.5 (2322 ratings)4 (57 ratings)
A 12-acre urban park including a cascading fountain, statues & a tradition of Sunday drum circles.
16th St NW &, W St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
ParkNature & ParksHistorical place
Mentioned by Cheapism
24 Free or Cheap Things to Do in Washington, D.C.
"The beautified Meridian Hill/Malcolm X Park in Columbia Heights has hosted a drum circle every Sunday (weather permitting) for four decades, inspiring dance and — more recently — a thriving scene of circus artists who juggle, do tightrope walking and demonstrate impressive hula-hooping and human-pyramid skills. While not everyone is happy to see this event become a tourist attraction, it's still a peaceful way to picnic and enjoy a community."
Mentioned by Old Town Trolley Tours
12 Top Public Parks in Washington DC | National and Public DC Parks
"This National Historic Landmark is home to a beautiful and welcoming tiered fountain. Home to a statue of Joan of Arc, Dante and a memorial to President Buchanan, this space has been hosting a drum circle on Sundays in the summer for the past 50 years."
Mentioned by Family Destinations Guide
25 Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C. (for 2021)
"16th Street & W Street, NWWashington, DC 20009(202) 895-6000. One of the fun things to do in Washington, D.C., is to spend a relaxing day in Meridian Hill Park. It’s an urban park built in Columbia Heights in June 1910."
Arlington Memorial Bridge
Arlington Memorial Bridge
4.6 (342 ratings)4 (31 ratings)
Scenic causeway lined with statues bridging the Potomac River for cars, pedestrians & bikers.
2912 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20418, USA
BridgeSights & LandmarksHistoric SitesPoints of Interest & Landmarks
Mentioned by I Hit The Button
The Best Places to Photograph in Washington D.C.
"One great view of DC is from the My Vernon trail next to the Arlington Memorial bridge. Whether you’re taking pictures on the sidewalk of the bridge or different angles around the bridge it you’ll have plenty to see. There are a few locations to park if you are trying to get a skyline view of the city."
Mentioned by Washington DC Photo Guide
Washington DC Photos Guide | Have Camera Will Travel
"Arlington Memorial Bridge runs across the Potomac from the Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery, one of six bridges connecting Virginia with the District of Columbia."
The Washington Harbour
The Washington Harbour
4.6 (2954 ratings)4.5 (141 ratings)
3000-3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Shopping mallSights & LandmarksHistoric Walking Areas
Mentioned by Washington DC 2 days itinerary
Two Days in Washington DC: A 48 Hour Itinerary
"You may also take a walk to Washington Harbour to enjoy the Potomac Waterfront views and popular outdoor dining spots. See a guide to the Best Restaurants in Georgetown and Georgetown Bars and Nightlife."
Mentioned by Washington DC 1 day itinerary
One Day Tour Itinerary in Washington, DC
"You may also take a walk to Washington Harbour to enjoy the Potomac Waterfront views and popular outdoor dining spots."

Mordern, Free, Best Art Museums in Washington DC

The Kreeger Museum
The Kreeger Museum
4.7 (172 ratings)4.5 (111 ratings)
Art from the 1850s-1970s, with Impressionists & American art.
2401 Foxhall Rd NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Art museumMuseums
Hirshhorn Museum
Hirshhorn Museum
4.5 (3837 ratings)4 (806 ratings)
Renowned modern & contemporary art museum with serene sculpture gardens right on the National Mall.
Independence Ave SW &, 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
Art museumMuseumsModern art museumSculpture museumGardens
Mentioned by Culture Trip
The 10 Best Contemporary Art Spaces in Washington DC
"DC’s Hirshhorn Museum is undoubtedly among the top contemporary art spaces in the United States. Founded in the 1960s from art collector Joseph Hirshhorn’s private collection, the museum exhibits artworks by some of the modern and contemporary art world’s greatest masters, including Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Jackson Pollock, Francis Bacon, and Edward Hopper. Temporary exhibitions have showcased the iconic works of Andy Warhol, Yves Klein, and Ai Weiwei."
Mentioned by The Crazy Tourist
55 Best Things to Do in Washington DC
"The great Gordon Bunshaft conceived the landmark cylindrical building for this modern art museum established by collector Joseph H. Hirshhorn. Set halfway between the Washington Monument and the Capitol, the Hirshhorn was ready in 1974 and houses one of America’s best collections of modern and contemporary art. Think Picasso, Matisse, Henry Moore, Francis Bacon, Jackson Pollock, Edward Hopper and Franz Kline, just by way of introduction."
Mentioned by The Zumper Blog
8 Cultural Events and Activities in Washington, DC
"The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden is an art museum dedicated to contemporary culture and art. Located near the National Mall in Washington, D.C., the museum offers tours, a cafe, exhibits, monthly events, and a museum shop for people of all ages and all interests. They also have a storytime event for children (ages 6 and younger) that features book readings, arts, and crafts."
George Washington University Art
George Washington University Art
5 (2 ratings)
701 21st St NW, Washington, DC 20052, USA
University departmentArt museum
Mentioned by Museum Hack
Museums in Washington DC: The Complete List (2020
"The Luther W. Brady Art Gallery and the Dimock Gallery make up the George Washington University Art Galleries. They display the University's permanent art collections, as well as visiting exhibitions. The collections include painting, sculpture, and photographs, ranging from rare historic pieces to Washington and Americana to modern art."

Best Fast Food Restaurants in Washington DC

Shake Shack
Shake Shack
4.2 (3236 ratings)
Hip, counter-serve chain for gourmet takes on fast-food classics like burgers & frozen custard.
800 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
Hamburger restaurantAmerican restaurantFast food restaurantDelivery RestaurantTakeout Restaurant
Chipotle Mexican Grill
Chipotle Mexican Grill
4.2 (454 ratings)
Fast-food chain offering Mexican fare, including design-your-own burritos, tacos & bowls.
1010 Vermont Ave NW Ste 101, Washington, DC 20005, USA
Mexican restaurantCatererFast food restaurant
Subway
Subway
3.9 (85 ratings)
Casual counter-serve chain for build-your-own sandwiches & salads, with health-conscious options.
1435 N Courthouse Rd, Arlington, VA 22201, USA
Sandwich shopCatererFast food restaurantTakeout RestaurantRestaurant

Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Washington DC

&pizza - Chinatown
&pizza - Chinatown
4.4 (698 ratings)
Modern pizzeria chain serving gourmet pies with diverse sauces, plus dessert pizzas & house sodas.
705 H St NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
Pizza restaurantVegan restaurantVegetarian restaurant
Silver New American Brasserie
Silver New American Brasserie
4.3 (605 ratings)
Art-deco style & a modern sensibility update American diner fare with a buzzy bar and spacious patio
3404 Wisconsin Ave, Washington, DC 20016, USA
American restaurantBarRestaurantBrasserieVegan restaurantVegetarian restaurant
Mentioned by Eater DC
The 13 Best Grab-and-Go Restaurants to Try Right Now
"Prospective chain Badaro opened its first Lebanese restaurant in Arlington and plans to grow from there. Featured offerings include traditional shawarma, grilled kebabs, kefta, and falafel. Fill out an order with a side of spicy hummus or baba ganoush with pita or a fresh-squeezed juice."
sweetgreen Capitol Hill
sweetgreen Capitol Hill
4.5 (341 ratings)
Locavore-friendly counter-serve chain specializing in organic salads, soup & bowls.
221 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
Health food restaurantDelivery serviceTakeout RestaurantRestaurantSalad shopVegan restaurantVegetarian restaurant
Mentioned by restaurantji.com
Best Vegetarian Restaurants in Washington, DC
"Ordered through their app over an hour and a half ago and order still hasn't been picked up by a courier. Called number for help and got no answer t..."

Vacation Rentals, Airbnb, Hotels & Cabins near Washington DC

4.2 (1209 reviews)
Wingate by Wyndham Chantilly / Dulles Airport
Hotel
$85 /night
View deal
4.7 (203 reviews)
Authentic Mountain Log Cabin is located on a cliff Side Above The Shenandoah River
Cabin · 4 Guests · 1 Bedroom
$245 /night*
View deal
4.2 (183 reviews)
Fairfield Inn Dulles Airport Chantilly
Hotel
$76 /night
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* The displayed nightly rate may be estimated based on a future travel date. Narrow down your search with checkin and checkout dates to see the exact price.