Washington is a city full of life and excitement. With museums, sports, research, development, and food from all over the world, there’s never a dull moment here. There is much to see, do, and places to visit in Washington. If you are looking to move here or for the best things to do in Washington while visiting, here is a list of the best activities!
Related: Find Rooms For Rent In Washington, D.C.
Outdoor activities
1. Enjoy exploring the Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is a large urban park that stretches from 17th street to the Maryland border in Washington DC. It’s a natural wonderland, full of wildlife and scenic views. The park covers more than 1,800 acres and has over 70 miles of trails! With many natural areas to explore in the Rock Creek area, and miles of hiking trails, picnic areas, and an abundance of wildlife, this park definitely has much to offer. Out of all the cool things to do in Washington, exploring Rock Creek Park is one of the coolest!
Hours of Operation: 9:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m.
Costs: Free
2. Hiking at C&O Canal National Historical Park
If you are looking for the best things to do in Washington, then don’t miss out on the chance to hike along the C&O Canal in Maryland. It is a great way to enjoy a beautiful day outside. There are many different sections that feature stunning views of natural or historical sites. The canal offers scenic journeys as well as easy access for walking, biking, fishing, or just relaxing.
Hours of Operation: 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Cost: $20
3. Visit the National Cherry Blossom Festival
When visiting Washington DC in early spring, most visitors expect to see one thing- cherry blossoms. That’s why the whole city throws a festival in celebration. The festival also hosts numerous other events as well, many of which are free! Attending the National Cherry Blossom Festival is one of the best things to do in Washington and you just don’t want to miss the beauty of the festival.
Cost: Free but online registration is required
Sports
1. Catch a Washington Football Team game
The Washington Football Team has been making noise in professional football since the 1960s. The Washington Football Team has been known for its innovative play-calling and game-planning over the years. Needless to say, when it comes to professional football in North America, there is no other brand that matters more than the Washington Football Team. Catching the team playing live is one of the best things to do in Washington.
Cost: Average price to attend a game during the season is $104.73
2. Catch up with the Washington Nationals
Baseball lovers who are looking for places to visit in Washington should visit Nationals Park to catch a Washington Nationals game. They are a professional baseball team based in Washington, D.C. With a strong bullpen and quality starting pitching, the Nationals consistently have one of the best pitching staffs in baseball.
Cost: Average price to attend a game during the season is $34.04
3. See the exciting Washington Wizards
The Washington Wizards are a professional basketball team that currently resides in the Eastern Conference of the National Basketball Association. They’re one of the most popular and successful franchises in NBA history. Their home games are always a fun watch and attending a game is one of the best things to do in Washington.
Cost: Average price to attend a game during the season is $51.02
Museums
1. National Gallery of Art
One of the best places for Washington tourism is the National Gallery of Art. It holds many different pieces of art spanning many eras in history, from ancient masterpieces to modern pop art. It is also the largest art museum in the United States and houses many famous paintings and sculptures.
Cost: Free
Hours of Operation: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. from Monday – Saturday and 11 a.m. – 6 p.m. on Sunday
2. Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, located in Washington D.C., has an enormous collection of more than 126 million objects and specimens, which makes it the largest museum complex in the world. This is nothing less than a paradise for history lovers who are looking for places to visit in Washington.
Cost: Free
Hours of Operation: Wednesday to Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m
3. National Museum of African American History and Culture
The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the 19th Smithsonian museum and the first one dedicated to the documentation of African American life, art, history, and culture. This is one of the must-visit places that you should add to your Washington tourism list.
Cost: Free
Hours of Operation: Wednesday to Sunday 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Cultural events
1. Enjoy a Drum Circle at Rhythm in the Park
Dancing to a drum circle in the middle of a park on a Sunday afternoon in Rhythm in the Park is one of the best things to do in Washington. It is an epic performance where the energy of the crowd feels like a gust of wind through your sweaty hair. The percussionists create music that builds up and then drops down to create smooth rhythms for everyone to groove to.
Cost: Free
Hours of Operation: Sunday, 3:00 p.m.
2. John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
The Kennedy Center in Washington is a community gathering space that promotes the arts. They hold performances where people come together to express themselves. The center serves as a home for theater, music, dance, and opera. Not just that, it also provides opportunities for shopping and dining, which can help you make a perfect day out!
Cost: Free
Hours of Operation: All week 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.;
Free Performances every day at 6:00 PM
3. Witness the Chinese New Year Celebrations
For many families living in Washington D.C., Chinese New Year is one of the most important holidays of the year. Visitors will have a chance to witness a parade with floats overflowing with vibrant colors and decorations. Plus, watch dancing lions join in on the festivities to bring good luck and fortune. Being part of the joy and vibrancy of this celebration is one of the best things to do in Washington!
Cost: Free
Months of Operation: January/February
Restaurants, bars & shopping
1. Get the best brewery experience at Bluejacket
Bluejacket is becoming a destination for well-crafted beer. The brewery brings a new kind of sophistication to DC dining, with a focus on classically inspired dishes and refined cocktails—but in an invitingly relaxed atmosphere. Amongst all the places to visit in Washington, you should also take the opportunity to visit Bluejacket for the best brewery experience!
Timings
Every day 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
2. Get a delectable bite at Bistro Aracosia
Bistro Aracosia is an Afghani Restaurant located in Washington DC. It has a variety of options from lunch and dinner daily, serving up tasty Afghan cuisine at affordable prices. The food is fresh and delicious, with mouth-watering appetizers to tantalize your taste buds!
Cost
$11-$30
3. Go shop at Crystal City
One of the best examples of a community that has been revitalized by major redevelopment is Crystal City in Washington. This area was once a thriving shopping district with multiple large department stores like Sears and Hecht’s. The area features a vibrant mix of retail shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for residents and tourists alike. Crystal City is a great place to visit in Washington if you are looking to shop your day away!
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