Things to do in Washington

Activities, attractions and tours

A capitol building with a dome, surrounded by autumn foliage.
A person sitting on a ledge overlooking a large obelisk and a body of water.
A large government building with a dome, an American flag, and a full moon in the sky.
A grand interior with marble columns, ornate railings, and multiple levels of balconies.
A large indoor museum with various aircraft on display, including a space shuttle.

Things to do

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

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

RM254
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
DC Night Tour: 10+ National Mall Monuments, Entry Ticket Upgrades
Washington by Day: Small Group Sightseeing Tour via Electric Vehicle

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

RM174
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Washington DC Monuments & Highlights: Small-Group Electric Cart Tour
Skip-the-Line Washington Monument Observation Deck Tickets

Skip-the-Line Washington Monument Tickets + Self Guidebook

RM72
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Skip-the-Line Washington Monument Tickets + Self Guidebook
DC Monuments with River Cruise, Cherry Blossoms, Entry Tickets

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

RM278
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

RM479
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
One day tour Washington & Philadelphia from New York
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket

Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket

RM141
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Museum of the Bible Admission Ticket
LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.

LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.

RM113
per adult
LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.
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What to do in Washington

Stay near popular Washington attractions

A calm river reflecting trees and a tall monument.

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
A fountain with a statue of a figure, surrounded by trees and benches in a park.

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.

A row of brick buildings with storefronts, a crosswalk, and a traffic light.

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 Washington Harbour or Embassy Row.

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 Folger Shakespeare Library and Library of Congress, and jump on the metro at Capitol South Station or Eastern Market Station to see more of the city.

The United States Capitol building with classical architecture, including columns and detailed sculptures.
Photo by The Graham County Chamber of Commerce
Open Photo by The Graham County Chamber of Commerce

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 National Museum of Women in the Arts, and jump on the metro at McPherson Sq. Station or Center Station to see more of the city.

A statue of Benito Juarez in front of a modern building with multiple balconies.

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.

An outdoor plaza with a glass roof, surrounded by modern buildings and trees.

Silver Spring

A flag with a black and yellow checkered pattern and a red cross, flying on a flagpole against a clear blue sky.

Takoma Park

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

Capitol Heights

A rocky riverbank with large boulders and a calm river.

Falls Church

A wooden pier extending over a calm lake with a person fishing.

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.