Things to do in Washington

Activities, attractions and tours

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A large government building with a dome, an American flag, and a full moon in the sky.
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Things to do

DC Night Tour: 10+ National Mall Monuments, Entry Ticket Upgrades

DC Night Tour: 10+ National Mall Monuments, Entry Ticket Upgrades

RM257
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
DC Night Tour: 10+ National Mall Monuments, Entry Ticket Upgrades
Washington: Small-Group City Unveiled eCruiser Tour

Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour

RM160
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour
DC Monuments with River Cruise, Cherry Blossoms, Entry Tickets

DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Boat Cruise, National Mall, Tickets

RM281
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Boat Cruise, National Mall, Tickets
Capitol Building in Washington DC

One day tour Washington & Philadelphia from New York

RM770
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
One day tour Washington & Philadelphia from New York
Lincoln Memorial Undercroft Direct Entry and Digital Guidebook

DC's Lincoln Memorial Undercroft Museum Direct Entry & Guidebook

RM102
per adult
DC's Lincoln Memorial Undercroft Museum Direct Entry & Guidebook
Washington DC: Washington Monument Top View Reserved Entry

DC: Washington Monument Skip-the-Line Tickets & Guidebook

RM106
per adult
DC: Washington Monument Skip-the-Line Tickets & Guidebook
LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.

LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.

RM122
per adult
LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.
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Top places to visit

1. National Mall

With its iconic monuments, such as the memorials dedicated to Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln, as well as its beautiful gardens and its richly packed museums, the National Mall is DC’s historic centrepiece. You can lose yourself exploring this area of the city for days on end.
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2. White House

Walk the corridors of power and see where presidents entertain heads of state at one of the most famous residences in the world, the White House. The neoclassical-style mansion has been the home and office of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800.
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3. United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is one of the most powerful places in the country. Within its chambers, laws are written, debated and passed. The magnificent 18th-century neoclassical-style building sits atop Capitol Hill and is home to the United States Senate and House of Representatives.
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The United States Capitol building surrounded by cherry blossom trees.

4. Arlington National Cemetery

With row upon row of small white headstones, spread across a vast area on the outskirts of D.C., the Arlington National Cemetery is a sobering place to visit. Here you’ll see the graves of veterans from American wars through the ages, lined up with military precision.
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5. Washington Monument

A needle-like alabaster obelisk built as a tribute to America’s Founding Father and first President, the Washington Monument, is a symbol of the United States and a recognisable icon on the DC skyline. Lying at the west of the National Mall, from the top of the tower you can admire great views of the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and the rest of the city.
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The Washington Monument with a cityscape in the background.

What to do in Washington

Stay near popular Washington attractions

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National Mall

9.4/10 (20,772 reviews)
America's most significant public space features iconic monuments and world-class museums along tree-lined paths. Stroll between the Lincoln Memorial and Capitol Building, experiencing the heart of American democracy.
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Where to stay in Washington

Find the best Washington areas for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Washington
Learn more about Washington
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Dupont Circle

Visitors to Dupont Circle love its fantastic nightlife, and you can check out Dupont Circle and Mansion on O Street. If you want to see more in the area, you can get around town on the metro at Dupont Circle Station.

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Georgetown

Georgetown is popular for its abundant dining options, and if you're looking for more to see and do, you might think about a trip to Georgetown Park or Washington Harbour.

A large government building with a dome, an American flag, and a full moon in the sky.

Capitol Hill

Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Capitol Hill. Check out top attractions like United States Capitol and Library of Congress, and jump on the metro at Capitol South Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the city.

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Downtown Washington D.C.

Known for its fascinating museums and important monuments, there's plenty to explore in Downtown Washington D.C.. Check out top attractions like Capital One Arena and Smithsonian Institution, and jump on the metro at McPherson Sq. Station or Center Station to see more of the city.

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Foggy Bottom

Important monuments a university vibe and top sights from Potomac River to Market 5 Gallery – discover Foggy Bottom, a destination also famous for its historic sites.

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Silver Spring

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Takoma Park

A large government building with a prominent dome and flag, surrounded by a well-maintained lawn and trees.

Capitol Heights

Great Falls Park

Falls Church

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College Park

Frequently asked questions

Is Washington worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are plenty of fun things to do in Washington. Remember to experience the area's blend of cool sights, culture and local charm.
How do I spend a day in Washington?
After you've checked off popular attractions like Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture, spend some time enjoying Washington's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Washington?
National Mall is one of the top tourist attractions in Washington and should feature high on every itinerary of the area.
Is three days enough to stay in Washington?
Three days will give you plenty of time to tick off many city attractions, including National Mall, Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture. The average stay in Washington is three days. If you have the urge to extend your escape, Arlington isn't far away.
Is Washington a walkable city?
With vibrant neighbourhoods and leading sights within walking distance of the city centre, Washington is a great destination to experience on foot. Have fun wandering between Smithsonian Institution and National Museum of African American History and Culture. Then take a stroll around Downtown Washington D.C, located 0.32 kilometres from the centre, and Connecticut Ave - K Street, which is about 2 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Washington with kids?
Planning what to do in Washington with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're getting away with teenagers or little ones, there are lots of family-friendly tours and activities to keep everyone entertained here.

What to do in Washington for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in Washington, with experiences for adults of all ages. Round off your day with a visit to K Street or Ellsworth Place.
Are there free things to do in Washington?
In Washington, National Mall is an unmissable spot for anyone wishing to tour the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and ask a local tour guide for recommendations. It's an easy way to find out about the best free things to do in Washington.