Home of the nation’s most well-known government building: The White House, the city of Washington, DC is also the heart of the U.S. government and rich with American history. When you think of Washington, DC, think museums, memorials, the Metro, and more.
While of course, you can spend days soaking up all of the culture and history this city offers, there are also plenty of other fun activities to enjoy while visiting. If you’re planning a trip and aren’t sure what to do while there, check out this list of some of the most enriching activities while visiting Washington, DC.
The White House
Visiting The White House is a must while visiting Washington, DC. You can stop by to snap a picture outside or take a tour if you’re willing to put in a little more work. To request a tour, you will need to request a date through your congressional representative, and even then, it could take up to three months for your request to be approved. But even If you don’t have that kind of time, it’s still fun to stop by just to see it in person!
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Set aside four or so hours to spend the afternoon exploring over 60,000 artifacts, including the lunar space suit worn by astronaut Neil Armstrong. Within the museum, you will also find historic exhibits on the Wright Brothers’ Wright Flyer Airplane and the Apollo 11 Command Module. And if you’re thinking about how daunting it is to have so much to see and learn, you can schedule a tour to hit some of the best parts of the museum with a guide.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is an iconic and historic landmark situated in Fairfax County, Virginia. It served as the home of George Washington, one of the most celebrated Founding Fathers of the United States and the country’s first president. Mount Vernon was built by George Washington’s father in 1735, and George inherited the property when his brother passed away in 1752.
The main house at Mount Vernon is a stunning example of Georgian architecture and boasts 21 rooms, including a spacious central hall, a dining room, and a drawing room. Visitors can explore the various rooms and learn about the life and times of George Washington, including his political career, his farming and agricultural practices, and his contributions to American society.
Apart from the main house, Mount Vernon also features several other buildings that were essential to George Washington’s daily life. The smokehouse, for example, was used for curing meat, while the laundry building was where clothes were washed and ironed. The stables housed George Washington’s beloved horses, and the gardens, fisheries, and family crypt all contribute to the rich history and legacy of this iconic site.
Rock Creek Park
This park comprises 1,754 acres and is known for its natural beauty. Within the park, you can enjoy creeks, trails, and a nature center. For a little more socializing, there are also picnic areas, an outdoor concert venue, and a golf course. To entertain your little ones, Rock Creek Park has a children’s Discovery Room as well as a bird observation deck. You won’t want to miss this hotspot!
Ford’s Theatre
This famous theater is known for being the place where Lincoln was assassinated. Shut down after the assassination, it was used as a warehouse for many years before being renovated in 2009 to become a theater once again. You can now enjoy plays and musicals as well as learn about Lincoln’s life and work. You will notice that the presidential box is always empty to pay tribute to our 16th president.
DC Improv Comedy Club & Restaurant
After a long day of checking out our nation’s history, head over to this comedy club for some knee-slapping laughs. Their doors opened in 1992 and hosts a main room that can seat 285 people as well as a more intimate lounge with a capacity of 60 people. After the show, you can stroll through downtown DC as the club is in an accessible area.
Washington DC Sightseeing Tours
If you’re visiting DC, you’ll probably want to see as much as possible! Book a sightseeing tour to get the most out of your trip. Tours generally include several hours of live narration that will take you to all the must-see monuments, museums, and memorials within the Capital area.
The Willard Spa
Indulge in a luxurious spa experience at The Willard Spa. Let the expert therapists cater to your needs with their personalized massages and skin treatments that will leave you feeling refreshed and renewed. The serene ambiance and calming atmosphere will transport you to a state of deep relaxation. From facials to body scrubs, The Willard Spa offers a wide range of services that will help you unwind and recharge. Trust us, a visit to The Willard Spa is a treat that you won’t regret.
MarketSW
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of MarketSW during your next DC vacation. Nestled in the heart of the city, this farmer’s market offers a diverse selection of fresh produce, baked goods, and meats. It’s the perfect opportunity to support local vendors and discover unique goods that you won’t find anywhere else. Stroll through the bustling stalls and immerse yourself in the energy of this lively market. Whether you’re looking for a snack or ingredients for a home-cooked meal, MarketSW has something for everyone. Make sure to stop by and add a little flavor to your vacation.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
At the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, you can pay tribute to soldiers who were killed or lost during the Vietnam War. It is located on the National Mall and is available to the public at all hours of the day.
You’ll also need to figure out transportation when planning a full day of fun activities. Instead of worrying about driving from location to location, enjoy a DC car service where you will be comfortably chauffeured around the city. No longer will you have to white-knuckle the steering wheel during rush hour traffic, because a trained professional will get you through the thick congestion with ease.
Visiting Washington, DC, should be on everyone’s bucket list. It is a city that offers so much of the nation’s history and some of the most interesting artifacts. Once you book your trip, be sure to revisit this article to get some ideas to add to your itinerary!
