Best 20 things to do in Washington, United States
Sophie Watts
US Travel Writer
Welcome to Washington, where the coffee flows freely and the rain falls continuously! Get ready to embark on an adventure that will leave you thoroughly entertained. From mingling with the politicians at the Capitol Building, to tossing salmon at the famous Pike Place Market, and ending the day with a quirky ride on the hipster-approved Capitol Hill Streetcar – this city is sure to keep you on your toes. Just don't forget your umbrella, because you never know when the rain gods will decide to shower their blessings upon you!
Save destination1. Tour the Capitol Building
Washington, DC 20004, USA
Welcome to the Capitol Building in Washington, D.C., where democracy is in the air and politicians roam free. Here, you can take a tour of the grandiose building that's basically a maze of corridors, where even the staunchest of lawmakers have been known to get lost. Don't worry, though, as our friendly guides will lead you through marble halls that scream "fancy" and point out the areas where major decisions are made, and sometimes even overturned. So, grab your map, leave your political ideologies at the door, and be prepared for an adventure that'll make you desperate for some democracy or a stiff drink—whichever comes first.
Learn more2. Visit the International Spy Museum
700 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
Embark on a thrilling undercover adventure at the International Spy Museum in Washington, where secrets and espionage are the order of the day – well, maybe not the actual order, but they definitely play a crucial role. Be prepared to unleash your inner James Bond as you explore the captivating exhibits that reveal the fascinating world of spies, gadgets, and deception. And don't worry, your mission, should you choose to accept it, is not to rescue the world from a diabolical villain, but rather to enjoy a unique and amusing experience that will leave you both entertained and slightly more paranoid than before.
Learn more3. Take a tour of the Supreme Court
1 First St NE, Washington, DC 20543, USA
Welcome to the Supreme Court, where justice is served with a side of majestic marble columns and awe-inspiring legal jargon! Step into the hallowed halls where robes dance like dignified disco outfits and gavels strike with the rhythm of a choir conductor. Feel the weight of democracy on your shoulders as you explore this architectural masterpiece, and hey, maybe even catch a glimpse of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg's secret stash of dissenting opinions! Don't forget to pose for a selfie outside the iconic Supreme Court building and impress your friends with tales of legal enlightenment.
Learn more4. Enjoy the scenery at Rock Creek Park
Washington, DC, USA
Welcome to Rock Creek Park, where nature meets humor! This oasis in Washington offers the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Take a leisurely stroll through the park and let your eyeballs be tickled by the majestic beauty of towering trees, vibrant hues of wildflowers, and maybe even a few photobombing squirrels along the way. Don't forget to bring a picnic, because nothing says "I'm enjoying the scenery" like simultaneously battling the complexities of opening a bag of chips while dodging determined ducks who shamelessly beg for a bite.
Learn more5. Explore the National Mall
Washington, DC, USA
Welcome to the majestic treasure trove of fun, history, and sunburns – the one and only National Mall in the heart of Washington! Think of it as a playground for adults who still get excited about giant statues and endless walking. Marvel at the iconic monuments that scream "important stuff happened here" and be prepared to navigate through throngs of tourists who have perfected the art of oblivious walking. Don't forget to sport a fancy fanny pack to complete your tourist ensemble and keep your wallet secure from sneaky squirrels lurking in the shadows.
Learn more6. Explore the National Air and Space Museum
600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
Welcome to the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, where dreams of taking flight are treated with utmost gravity, but fear not, because gravity is optional here! Prepare to embark on a cosmic journey through time, where history and innovation collide faster than a rogue asteroid crashing into your neighbor's mini-van. Step inside and immerse yourself in a world where airplanes defy gravity, rockets tickle the stars, and not even the sky is the limit!
Learn more7. Take a boat tour on the Potomac River
650 Wharf St SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
Welcome aboard the "Paddle Me Silly" boat tour on the magnificent Potomac River in Washington! Here, where presidents have sailed and ducks have quacked, prepare to embark on a journey that's more thrilling than watching C-SPAN on fast-forward. With Captain Chuckles at the helm and a mandatory life jacket, we guarantee you'll be laughing, paddling, and putting a smile on your face faster than you can say "Potomac-a-doodle-doo"! Prepare to be whisked away into a world of watery wonders as we float past historic landmarks and magical monuments. You'll have the chance to see the famous cherry blossoms lining the riverbanks while we serenade them with a few tunes from the Titanic soundtrack (singing skills not required, but enthusiasm strongly encouraged). And fear not, the Potomac may be notorious for its occasional goose poop minefields, but worry not, dear traveler - our onboard "Paddle Scraper 2000" is here to make sure your shoes are as shiny as a politician's smile. As we glide along, keep an eye out for political wildlife swimming by, from senators practicing their freestyle strokes to lobbyists doing synchronized backflips for a vote. And remember, if you see any politicians enjoying a secret fishing trip, try not to disturb them as they're just trying to catch that elusive "honesty trout". Finally, we can't forget the highlight of our tour - the majestic Watergate building, where we'll pause for a dramatic reenactment of the most notorious political scandal in American history. Don't worry, no one will break into your hotel room while you're gone. Probably. So grab your sea legs, your sense of humor, and your waterproof camera (just in case) as we embark on this epic adventure, splashing through waves of laughter and unforgettable memories. Join us on the "Paddle Me Silly" boat tour - where the Potomac River and comedy perfectly collide, leaving you in stitches and craving seconds of this amusing aquatic experience!
Learn more8. Explore the Newseum
555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001, USA
Welcome to the Newseum in Washington, where news enthusiasts unite! Be prepared to have your mind blown (figuratively, of course) as you explore this remarkable museum. It's like taking a stroll through a journalism-themed amusement park, minus the roller coasters but packed with the thrills of media history and interactive exhibits. Get ready to have your fake news radar on high alert! From the moment you enter, the Newseum grabs your attention like a breaking news story on every news junkie's radar. With seven floors of awesomeness, this place has got it all, from Pulitzer Prize-winning photographs and historic front pages to a section dedicated to the First Amendment. You'll find yourself saying, "Forget CNN, this is the real 24-hour news network!" And yes, they even have a gift shop for all your journalism-inspired merch needs, because who doesn't want a "Reporter at Heart" mug? But let's not forget the crown jewel, the "Today's Front Pages" exhibit where you'll feel like an editor-in-chief, observing over 80 newspapers from around the globe, all carefully arranged like pieces of a giant news puzzle. It's like taking a worldwide news tour but without the jet lag – talk about efficiency! Just don't get too competitive and whip out your red pen to correct headlines, because we are here for the fun, folks. So, gear up, fellow news aficionados, and get ready to delve into an adventure that Peter Parker himself would envy. The Newseum might be slightly nerdy, but hey, knowledge is power and they've got it in spades. Whether you're a modern news junkie or just an average Joe wanting to explore a unique side of American history, this museum will leave you feeling like a journalistic superhero.
Learn more9. Take a tour of the National Archives
701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408, USA
Step right up, ladies and gents, and embark on an unforgettable journey through the hallowed halls of the National Archives in Washington! Brace yourself for a quirky yet captivating adventure that promises to unveil the secrets of American history, all while surrounded by an army of serious-faced statues that seem to follow your every move. Delve into the dazzling world of original documents, from the iconic Declaration of Independence to impeccably preserved love letters from presidents past – a glimpse into history that's more thrilling than a rollercoaster ride!
Learn more10. Explore the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
Welcome to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington. Step into a time machine that will transport you back to one of the darkest periods of human history - without actually bending the space-time continuum or anything. Get ready to embark on a journey that could give Indiana Jones a run for his money, only this time you won't be fleeing from boulders or dodging booby traps; instead, you'll be navigating through chilling exhibits that may leave you questioning the very essence of humanity itself. Hilarity not guaranteed.
Learn more11. Explore the Library of Congress
101 Independence Ave SE, Washington, DC 20540, USA
Welcome to the Library of Congress in the heart of Washington, where books are stacked higher than the jumbled thoughts in my head after a night of bad decisions. This sprawling architectural beauty houses more literary treasures than you can shake a highlighter at; it’s like attending a bookworm’s version of the Olympics. Prepare yourself to be amazed, because inside these walls, you’ll find more stories than a gossiping grandma and more knowledge than a thousand Jeopardy champions combined.
Learn more12. See the Washington Monument
2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
Welcome to the grandiose capital of the United States, where history and architecture combine to create the iconic Washington Monument. Standing tall like an over-enthusiastic giraffe, this looming obelisk reaches for the heavens, almost as if trying to outdo all the politicians nearby. Ascend its elevator for panoramic views of the city, and if you're lucky enough, catch a glimpse of the monument's secret dance party at dusk.
Learn more13. Visit the Lincoln Memorial
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20002, USA
Welcome to the Lincoln Memorial in Washington, where you can pay your respects to one of America's greatest presidents while enjoying some serious statue envy. Marvel at the sight of Abe Lincoln, looking like a giant bronze model for a historically accurate lumberjack clothing line. As you climb the steps, take a moment to appreciate Honest Abe's view, which is so spectacular it could make anyone ponder deep thoughts like, "Does this statue also suffer from the fear of heights?"
Learn more14. Visit the National Gallery of Art
4th St NW, Washington, DC 20565, USA
Welcome to the National Gallery of Art in Washington! Get ready to embark on an art-tastic adventure that will make you feel like a sophisticated intellectual, even if you can't tell a Picasso from a pogo stick. As you strut through the gallery, make sure to have witty comebacks ready for any art snobs you encounter, because remember, knowledge is power, and sarcasm is your secret weapon.
Learn more15. Visit the White House
1450 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
If you happen to find yourself in Washington, D.C., then visiting the White House is an absolute must-do, unless you have a fear of tall, majestic buildings or the color white. Prepare to channel your inner secret agent as you pass through a series of security checks, frantically trying to remember if you packed your shampoo in your carry-on. Once inside, go ahead and count the number of chandeliers hanging from the ceiling because, well, nobody's watching. Don't forget to give a friendly wave to the cameras, just in case your family back home is watching the live feed and waiting for you to trip over a red carpet or mistake a statue for a real person.
Learn more16. Take a stroll in Georgetown
3303 Water St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Step into the stylish shoes of a seasoned flâneur and embark on a jolly jaunt through Georgetown in Washington. This picturesque neighborhood, exuding timeless charm, beckons you to discover its hidden treasures while pretending to be vastly knowledgeable about its history and haunts. Be prepared to navigate through a labyrinth of cobblestone streets as you gawk at preppy boutiques, admire stately townhouses, and dodge pretentious locals whose favorite pastime seems to be judging passersby or their choice of latte.
Learn more17. Visit the Smithsonian Museums
10th St. & Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
Welcome to the Smithsonian Museums in Washington, where history, culture, and scientific wonders come together like a collision of your nerdiest dreams. Dive headfirst into a captivating world where you’ll wander through exhibits that will make you question why you ever opted for a non-museum-filled vacation. From the jaw-dropping Air and Space Museum to the mind-blowing National Museum of Natural History, prepare to have your brain overloaded with brilliance – just remember to bring spare brain cells, just in case.
Learn more18. Visit the National Zoo
3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Welcome to the National Zoo in Washington, where animals of all shapes and sizes gather to showcase their fabulousness. Brace yourselves for an outrageous adventure filled with furry friends and astonishing critters. Get ready to gawk at the antics of pandas, engage in a staring contest with a sloth, and maybe even discover what happens when a flamingo tries to pull off a top hat.
Learn more19. Visit the Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington, VA, USA
Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., visiting Arlington National Cemetery promises a rather grave experience. You might think, "Oh, it's just a cemetery," but trust me, this place is a real knockout (pun intended)! Take a stroll amongst the white tombstones while pondering life's most profound questions, and don't miss the iconic Changing of the Guard ceremony – it's like watching statues come alive, only way less creepy.
Learn more20. Enjoy the views from the National Harbor
165 Waterfront St, Oxon Hill, MD 20745, USA
Welcome to the National Harbor in Washington, where the breathtaking views will make you forget all your daily worries, except maybe your fear of heights. Float atop the serene Potomac River and indulge in a panorama that will leave your eyeballs happier than a kid in a candy store. So grab your camera, sunblock, and some binoculars to spot your favorite politicians—the feathered kind, that is!
Learn moreHow to get there
Plane
The best way to get to Washington, United States by plane is to fly into Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport which is located in Arlington, Virginia, just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C.
Car
Driving to Washington, D.C. is a great option, as it's easily accessible from major highways, including I-95, I-295, and I-495. Parking may be a bit challenging and expensive, but there are many parking garages throughout the city.
Train
There is a train station in Washington, D.C. called Union Station, where you can arrive from various nearby cities like New York or Philadelphia via Amtrak or commuter rail services.
Boat
While not the most practical way to get there, you can take a boat to Washington, D.C. via the Potomac River. Just south of D.C. is the National Harbor, which serves as a port for many cruises and water taxis. You can also take a ferry from nearby Alexandria, Virginia.
Bus
If you're looking to travel by bus, Greyhound and Megabus offer services from major cities to the DC area. You can arrive at Union Station or the Greyhound terminal.