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

LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.

LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.

S$36
per adult
LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.
DC Monuments with River Cruise, Cherry Blossoms, Entry Tickets

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

S$88
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
DC in a Day: 10+ Monuments, Boat Cruise, National Mall, Tickets
Skip-the-Line Washington Monument Observation Deck Tickets

Skip-the-Line Washington Monument Tickets + Self Guidebook

S$23
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Skip-the-Line Washington Monument Tickets + Self Guidebook
DC Highlights Tour

DC Highlights Tour

S$68
per adult
90% of travellers recommend
DC Highlights Tour
DC at Dusk Night Tour

DC at Dusk Night Tour

S$82
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
DC at Dusk Night Tour
DC History & Monuments Open Air Guided Small Group History Tour

DC History & Monuments 5+Stops Guided Small Group Cruiser Tour

S$70
per adult
DC History & Monuments 5+Stops Guided Small Group Cruiser Tour
Washington DC Monuments & Memorials Small Group Open-Air Cruiser

Washington DC Monuments Extended Guided Open-Air Cruiser Tour

S$62
per adult
Washington DC Monuments Extended Guided Open-Air Cruiser Tour
Washington D.C Scavenger Hunt & Highlights Self Guided Audio Tour

Washington DC Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Walking Tour

S$4
per adult
Washington DC Scavenger Hunt & Self-Guided Walking Tour
Discover DC Tour

Discover DC with Nick

S$113
per adult
92% of travellers recommend
Discover DC with Nick
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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.
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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.

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.

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

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Alexandria

A cityscape with a prominent monument, multiple highways, and illuminated buildings.

Chevy Chase

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

Silver Spring

The United States Capitol building at sunset with a dramatic sky.

McLean

A tree-lined street with a building displaying art classes and a stone wall.

Bethesda

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

College Park

A person taking a photo with a camera, a body of water, and a brightly lit Ferris wheel in the background.

National Harbor

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.