Ride The Capital Wheel At National Harbor
Every major city needs its wheel and Washington DC is no exception. When you are looking to get to new heights over the city and the water, you ride the Capital Wheel at National Harbor.
This DC attraction brings you 180 feet above the Potomac river for views of the Washington Monument, Masonic Temple, Georgetown and Old town Alexandria. Head over at sunset when the wheel lights up and the city really starts to shine.
Check for Capital Wheel Groupon tickets if you want to save a little on admission fees.
Learn About All The Ghosts Of Georgetown And Try The Delicious Food While Youre There
If America is known for one thing around the world, its the decadent food culture. Georgetown in DC is one of the best neighborhoods in the country to experience this rich food culture firsthand.
Of course, Americana isnt just about food, its also about history, architecture, and ghost stories! This gem of a town has a rich supply of all of the above, and the local experts are more than happy to show you everything you need to see.
Catch A Play In The Same Theater Where Lincoln Saw His Final One At Fords Theatre
The theater where President Lincoln saw his final play is still open for business.
It still looks pretty much the same as it did on the night of his assassination, and the actual booth where it happened is completely closed off to outsiders in order to keep it preserved.
Fords Theatre offers educational tours and presentations about its history as well as full performances of classic plays like A Christmas Carol and The Mountaintop.
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Where To Stay In Washington Dc
Budget: When it comes to Washington, D.C. budget hotels, prices vary depending on the season. In the middle of October, a four-star hotel could be under $150, while in December it may be over $400. At any given time of year, though, Hotel Hive is a safe bet for value when it comes to resting your head. If you are looking for a hostel, Hi Washington D.C. Downtown is well located for exploring all of the D.C. museums, restaurants and bars at the fraction of the price of a hotel. Check rates and availability here.
Mid-range: Every USA hotel chain can be found in Washington, D.C., but stay at the St. Gregory Hotel when you want a local touch. The modern, light-filled rooms will welcome you to the city, whether you are in a studio or suite with wraparound terrace. The hotel is walking distance to Georgetown, the National Mall and Embassy Row, making it easy to explore without a rental car. Check rates and availability here.
Work Against The Clock With Your Friends In An Escape Room
Escape rooms are guaranteed to be a fun time in any city. If you love solving puzzles, then spend some time in a locked room with your friends and family as you work against the clock to find as many clues as possible and solve the mysteries laid out before you.
Or, if youre looking for something a little more primal, why not try the Smash Room? Forget all your problems in a safe environment as you release tension by smashing everything you see. Its therapeutic!
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Invite Friends Over For An At
Were not trying to give you too many excuses to stay in this winter season, but this one is actually worth a night spent in the comfort of your own home. District Winery has created a series of wine tasting kits that are perfect for hosting or gifting. Each one includes three bottles of vino, a complete wine tasting guide, note sheets for recording your thoughts, and a wine key, so youll have everything you need for a night of quality sipping.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum aims to teach the world about the atrocities that led to one of humanitys most despicable acts.
Through documents and imagery, the museum details what life was like during the Holocaust, hoping that people will stand up to this hate and stop further genocides throughout the world.
While the museum is in the same area as many of the Smithsonian museums, it is not technically part of the group. The museums tickets are free, but there is a $1 transaction fee if you reserve online.
At the end of the museum, there is an educational center where you can learn about other genocides throughout history .
Address: 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, DC 20024
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Head To The Downtown Holiday Market
During the holiday season, DC steals some of the traditional Christmas market flair from Europe and brings it to its own streets.
What results is rows of street stalls selling artisan items, baked goods, condiments, and more. Of course, along with any holiday market, there are traditional drinks like mulled wine, as well as non-alcoholic delights like hot chocolate.
In the wintertime, bundle up and head to the Downtown Holiday Market to enjoy the sights and sounds of the holiday season.
Best Airbnb In Washington Dc: Historic Home In Urban Area
Start your journey of exploring DC at this cute townhouse. You have the whole thing to yourself in the heart of Americas historic districts! It accommodates up to 4 people and the couches are to die for. Youve got a metro really close by and Whole Foods is only 3 blocks away, too its our pick for best Airbnb in Washington DC.
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See Famous American Faces
Ted Eytan
The National Portrait Gallery is an institution filled with the faces of Americans who have shaped the country. These include presidents, poets, scientists, actors, activists, and so much more!
Come face-to-face with some of the nations greatest influencers, from pre-colonial times to modern-day.
Make sure to check out the Hall of Presidents when you visit. This area contains portraits of nearly all US presidents. There are also several portraits of First Ladies.
The gallery is open every day and entrance is free!
- Entrance: Free
- Address: 8th and G Streets, Washington, DC 20001, United States
Have A Drink By The Fireplace
Theres just something so nice and comforting about enjoying a cocktail by the fireplace. Fortunately, there are tons of bars and restaurants in which to do so in DC, like the historic Tabard Inn where they even have a Fireplace cocktail menu. Iron Gate is another great place to enjoy a drink or meal by the fire, as is Plume inside the Jefferson Hotel. In fact, most of the swanky hotels in the city have fireplaces to sit by, like The Living Room at the Ritz-Carlton, the Melrose, or the Conrad, which all have lobby patio fireplaces.
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Washington National Cathedral One Of The Most Religious Places To See In Washington Dc
- Glorious architecture
- Active place of worship
- Stunning interiors
Why its awesome: Officially named The Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington, the stunning religious building is commonly referred to as simply Washington National Cathedral. Although its sublime designs and architecture may lead people to believe the church is very old, construction only began in the early 1900sand, it took many years until it was completed in 1990! Details are continually being added too.
One of the biggest churches in the USA, the spectacular church was designed to resemble the English Gothic style from the Middle Ages. From exquisite and colourful stained glass windows to detailed carvings and sacred chapels, there are many fine details to admire both inside and out. Attractive gardens surround the cathedral. It is an active place of worship, with regular religious services,
What to do there: Admire the magnificent cathedral from the outside, with its soaring Gothic spires, 112 grotesque gargoyles, bell tower, flying buttresses, ornate windows, carvings, and other fine details. Dont miss seeing the unusual Darth Vader gargoyle! Stroll through the pleasant 59-acre grounds, which include delightful gardens, places for reflection, a Norman archway from the 13th century, and walking trails through wildlife-rich woodland.
Catch A Show At The : 30 Club
For over 40 years, DCs 9:30 Club has played host to some of the most legendary musical acts of all time, including The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nirvana, and Tony Bennett himself.
Both Rolling Stone and Billboard have named it the #1 nightclub in the world.
Make sure to check the event calendar often if youre planning a visit, as tickets sell out fast and often!
We hope you have enjoyed our selection of things to do in Washington DC. Please comment below if you wish to recommend other places to visit.
Happy travels!
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Visit A Very Important House
The White House is hands-down one of the most historic and important sites in the U.S. Its been the official residence and workplace of nearly every president of the United States, and it was erected in the late 18th century.
Its a magnificently grand sight to behold, but you can only access the White House with a tour. You need to apply for a ticket way in advance, but even if youre not able to book it, the building itself is a striking sight.
Visiting the White House is one of the top things to do in Washington DC.
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: Scheduled on a first come, first served basis
- Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20500, United States
Visit An Island In Dc
Theodore Roosevelt Island is a beautiful small island located in the Potomac River. It spans 88 acres and is both an island and a national memorial dedicated to the 26th President of the United States, Theodore Roosevelt.
Its great for a quick escape from the hustle and bustle of DC. Youll find various walking and hiking trails and plenty of wildlife waiting for you. You can also rent kayaks and canoes to explore it!
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Paddle Through The City On The Potomac River
Sometimes people forget that the Potomac River runs right through some of the citys most spectacular sights, and that you can see a completely different perspective of the US capital from the water.
If you love being outdoors, or are looking for a unique, romantic thing to do in the city, go kayaking in DC and explore the city from the water. You can rent a kayak! Exploring the city from the water will give you a unique perspective that not many visitors get to see.
The Capitol One Of The Most Incredible Free Places To Go To In Washington Dc
- Stunning piece of architecture
- Symbol of democracy and iconic landmark
- No admission fees or charges for tours
- Various programs and activities
Why its awesome: The United States Capitol is one of the most famous landmarks in Washington DC. Containing the US Congress and the government legislature, the iconic neoclassical building was constructed in 1800. Later changes included the addition of the grand and eye-catching dome. Flags fly proudly above the building. Inside, there is an impressive art collection, which includes statues, sculptures, paintings, and carvings.
It is a National Historic Landmark, a strong symbol of democracy, and a source of national pride. Visitors can register for free tours, learn more about the building and its functions at the Visitor Center, get a pass to watch senate in session, and visit various parts of the magnificent building.
What to do there: Join a free 45-minute tour of the Capitol, exploring the Greek Revival National Statutory Hall with its marble floor and columns, sculptures, large chandelier, sandstone relief, and other sublime details, the Crypt with its replica of the Magna Carta and distance-marker star, and the lavish dome-topped Rotunda. If they are sitting you can obtain a pass to watch Congress. Peek inside the beautiful Halls of the Senate, complete with gorgeous Italian art, hear historic tales in the Old Senate Chamber, and admire the overall beauty of the building both inside and out.
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Arlington National Cemetery Possibly One Of The Most Important Places To Visit In Washington Dc
- Biggest military burial ground in the USA
- Moving memorials
- Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
- Scene of solemn ceremonies
Why its awesome: Although not strictly in the capital , taking a trip to Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most popular things to do when visiting Washington DC. Founded during the Civil War, the military cemetery is the final resting place for people who lost their lives while serving the country in various conflicts. There are 70 sections, one of which is dedicated to former slaves. The well-ordered cemetery also has a number of memorials and monuments as well as the Tomb to the Unknown Soldier, which is always guarded by military personnel. There is no admission cost to enter the cemetery.
What to do there: Honour more than 400,000 veterans, with the graves of people who served in the Civil War, the Cold War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, and more. You can walk around the cemetery independently or join an informative tour. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes in any case as the complex is vast. Visit the hilltop Arlington House, the former home of Robert E. Lee and a building that has served as a memorial to George Washington, a plantation, a slave home, a burial site, and a home for freed slaves.
Brave The Tough Vetting Process And Take A Walking Tour Of The Pentagon
The Pentagon is extremely strict about how they handle their tour bookings, and they only offer them during very specific time windows, but they still manage to bring in over 106,000 people annually, and they even offer self-guided tours.
See where some of the most important and most difficult decisions in history have been made as you stroll past the office of the Secretary of Defense and a number of military displays.
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Hit Up Jazz In The Garden
In the summer, the National Gallery of Arts sculpture garden opens its gates for live jazz music and pitchers of sangria.
On Fridays from June to August, you can see DCs young professionals flocking there in high numbers to lay down picnic blankets and snack on wine and cheese, catching up about their busy weeks and enjoying the sometimes quaint, but always quality jazz music that fills the air.
When I first moved to DC, this was one of the first events I ever went to! Its so fun to sit back and unwind with friends amidst the towering sculptures in the garden.
If you are looking for a fun non touristy thing to do in Washington, DC in the summer, this is one of the most fun.
Music Art Theatre In Dc
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Memphis Greenline & Greenway
Running through Shelby Farms is a 10-mile portion of the Memphis Greenline, a set of citywide trails that are perfect for hikes, bikes, strollers and the likes . The Greenline project is a cool endeavor the organization turns unused railway easements into trails. Another great place for getting exercise with the kids is the Wolf River Greenway, which seeks to connect 22 Memphis neighborhoods with more than 800 acres of green space along a 26-mile trail. Both the Greenline and the Greenway have several access points throughout the city.
