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The Capitol of the United States of America, Washington D.C., is famous for all its monuments, history, and museums. There are countless museums and monuments that attract millions of people every year. I love going to see all the monuments and experiencing the history and greatness of this country. However, there is more to D.C. than meets the eye. For this post, I’m going to take you through some of our more favorite, less thought-of things to do in Washington D.C.!
Indoor Things to do in Washington DC
1. Basilica Of The National Shrine Of The Immaculate Conception
This Catholic Church is a preeminent Marian shrine. Millions of people make the pilgrimage to this shrine every year to honor the Mother of God. You can go on a tour of the shrine while you’re there. This Church took over 100 years to build.
Address: 400 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017
2. Breakfast In Eastern Market
Eastern Market is another local spot that I just love. It’s been in operation since the 1800s and you’ll find local food, coffee, art, music, books, and more in the area. Check out Bullfrog Bagels, Ted’s Bulletin, and Radici. During weekends, a huge flea market opens up outside. Additionally, you can shop for local art, old maps, funky jewelry, and more.
Address: 225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
3. Eat Around The World
One of the greatest perks of visiting DC is the fact that there are so many varied cuisines available to you. You can try food you’ve never experienced before. The first time I visited Washington DC, we tried Ethiopian food for the first time. You can eat at a French Cafe for breakfast, pick up snacks at a German grocery store, eat Vietnamese Bahn Mis for lunch, and then top your evening with Indian food. It really is a melting pot.
4. Ford’s Theatre
This is the famous site of Abraham Lincoln‘s assassination. There are several rooms to see there. You can learn about the assassination, visit a museum with Abraham Lincoln’s possessions, and explore Peterson House. There is also a cool tower of books to see as well.
Address: 511 10th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
5. Hop Between Smithsonian Museums
Smithsonian Museums is the largest museum complex in the world. It would be impossible to visit all the museums in one trip. I read somewhere that if you spent 1 minute in each exhibit in all the Smithsonian Museums it would take 258 years. But that’s okay! You just need to find the ones you like the most. We went to the Air & Space Museum and the Museum of Natural History. Best part is that they are free. Since they are free, it is incredibly family friendly.
6. Library of Congress
I personally love visiting Libraries when we travel. There is always so much history there. They are also the community pulse. The Library of Congress officially serves Congress, but it is also the oldest federal cultural institution. It truly gives you an insight into our history and government. Finally, go chat with a librarian to learn more about the Library of Congress.
Address: 101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540
7. Museum of the Bible
The Museum of the Bible is a very cool and interactive way to learn more about the Bible. There is something for everyone from just learning about the Bible to deep in knowledge. You can see the handwritten scroll that was the Bible. This is the original form as it was passed down generations.
Address: 400 4th St SW, Washington, DC 20024
8. Read Through the National Archives
National Archives is charged with the preservation and documentation of government and historical records. The archives contain the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Magna Carta, and numerous other priceless documents. After many of the early papers of America’s history were lost, the National Archives was built. It is important to have a safe space to store all these important documents.
Address: 700 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408
Get a VIP entrance to the National Archives and Capitol with these tickets!
9. Tour the Capitol or White House
You can spend time in the most influential political buildings of this country and the world by requesting tours of the Capitol Building or of the White House. You will want to request these ahead of time to ensure you actually get to do the tour. They are unique experiences. Remember these are Federal buildings with top notch security, prepare accordingly.
Unique Outdoor Activities in Washington DC
10. Explore Georgetown
Exploring Georgetown can be a post on its own. There is so much to do in this area of DC. Starting with Georgetown University which is like a castle on a hill. Then the rest of the neighborhood has many cute stores and great places to eat. Finally, you can also go for a stroll along the Waterfront Promenade. While you’re there, stop at Baked & Wired for a cupcake.
11. Head to Chinatown
While the Chinatown of DC is smaller in comparison to cities of similar size, it does offer great restaurants. So if you’re interested in some Dim Sum or other Chinese food, head to Chinatown!
However, the Zodiac Intersection at 7th and H Street NW truly makes this Chinatown stand out. The crosswalk represents the Chinese Zodiac signs between the standard black and white stripes. The Barnes Dance style is used to decorate the crosswalk.
12. Kayak on the Potomac River
With several rental and instructional centers located in and around Washington, D.C., you can be on the Potomac River in a paddle boat or a kayak in no time. Float down the calm waters of the Potomac and catch some amazing views of the Kennedy Center and the Jefferson Memorial.
13. National Arboretum
The US National Arboretum has an extensive collection of trees and plants that aid in research projects by the United States Department of Agriculture. There are several outdoor gardens, one of which includes all the state trees. The 446-acre site is mainly devoted to trees. However, there are also a few man-made items. These include the National Capitol Columns and the ruins of the United Brick Corporation Brick Complex.
Address: 3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
14. Pay Respects at Arlington Cemetery and witness the Changing of the Guard
Arlington Cemetery is the most famous cemetery in the United States. This is where our national heroes and important politicians are buried. Additionally, here you’ll find the guarded Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This important and harrowing Tomb is guarded 24/7/365 and seeing the changing of the guards is an incredible moment. Check out this walking tour that takes you to important grave sites and positions you for the best view of this guard change.
15. Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is the third federally designated national park. However, years later, it moved to be under the National Capital Parks division. The large park is a great place to escape the noise and rush of city life. With a great network of hiking trails that carve their way through the park, it is truly the best getaway.
16. See A Clone of the Newton Apple Tree
One of the most curious and interesting things to do in Washington DC is to visit an apple tree. Why? Well, this tree is a clone of the apple tree that inspired the discovery of gravity. The tree was grown from a cutting that was taken from the original tree in Cambridge, England. National Institute of Standards & Technology (NIST) scientists planted the tree. Additionally, this tree remains there producing apples like the one that fell on Newton, although apparently, they do not taste very nice.
Address: International Park, Washington, District of Columbia
17. Visit the Country’s Oldest Mini Golf Course
East Potomac Park Mini Golf is the longest continuously operated mini golf course in DC. It is also the only one that’s outdoors. While it may not be as state of the art as other golf courses it sure is cool to say you golfed at such a historic one. Additionally, it is a great place to go with kids.
Address: 970 Ohio Dr. SW, Washington, DC 20242
One of a Kind Events in Washington DC
18. Embassy Row Open Houses
I have to say this is probably my favorite thing to do in Washington DC. I really enjoy walking around and seeing all the different embassies. It is so interesting to see how each country is depicted architecturally. Grab a coffee and breakfast and head for a walk along these beautiful residences.
A cool way to “see the world” while never leaving Washington DC is to visit during the Embassy Open House. During the month of May, Passport DC offers a ton of awesome events to experience the different cultures of the different countries found in DC. Not only do the Embassies participate but many other cultural institutions participate as well. Plus you get to try many different foods!
Address: Massachusetts Avenue from DuPont Circles going up toward Wisconsin Avenue (up to 23 Street) and R Street at Sheridan Circle. Visitors can also walk back on S street to see another layer of Embassies and Residences.
19. Visit in Time for the Cherry Blossom Festival
This festival is one of the most well-known festivals to come out of DC. Every spring the cherry blossoms bloom and it is an impressive sight to behold. There are opening ceremonies, a parade, “Petalpalooza”, and many more activities. Some may require tickets booked ahead of time, but definitely a time of year to consider heading over to the Capital.
20. Watch the Marines Parade
Every Friday evening during the Summer the Marines put on a Parade. This event is fun for the whole family! You do need to reserve tickets beforehand, but it is well worth a metro ride over to the Marine Barracks. Not only do they put on a great military display, but they also show off incredible teamwork and precision.
Address: 8th St SE, Washington, DC 20390
Final Thoughts About the Things to Do in Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. is an incredibly vibrant city with so much to do. Not only can you experience the center of US government and history, but you can truly enjoy multiple cultures. This unique combination means that there are plenty of things to do for all visitors. From many different foods to try to plenty of museums to being an incredibly walkable city, Washington DC is an excellent spot for everyone to visit.
