Things to do in Washington DC

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All about Washington DC

When to visit

Summer might seem like a natural time to visit Washington DC, given the ceremony of the Fourth of July. But the season’s sweltering heat and humidity are not always the most comfortable. Instead, aim for a visit in fall when the city is abuzz with activity and things to do. Neighborhood events like Adams Morgan Day and the H Street Festival make it easy to discover DC’s local side. Alternatively, visit in spring to catch the peak of cherry blossom season.

Getting around

As the nation’s capital, Washington DC is unsurprisingly well-connected. The city is served by two airports, Dulles International Airport and Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. Then there’s Union Station, where passengers can pick up intercity Amtrak train services. The Washington Metro has six lines that connect neighborhoods across the greater metropolitan area, as well as numerous buses. The DC Circulator, a low-cost shuttle, is another excellent way to get around.

Traveler tips

Looking for a green escape after busy days of sightseeing and guided tours? Find your refuge in Rock Creek Park. Spanning 1,700 acres (688 hectares) in the north of the city, Rock Creek was the country’s third national park. Its creekside and forested walking trails offer a great way to get active, while landmarks like Peirce Mill offer a dose of history, too.

People Also Ask

What’s Washington DC known for?

Washington DC—the United States capital—is known for its iconic government buildings including the White House, US Capitol, Supreme Court. It’s also known for the National Mall, which features numerous landmarks. Highlights include the Washington Monument, National World War II Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, which overlooks the Tidal Basin.

What is the #1 site visited in Washington, DC?

The most visited site in Washington DC is the Lincoln Memorial, on the National Mall. The memorial is instantly recognizable for its columns and enormous seated statue of President Abraham Lincoln. Other popular things to do in Washington DC include the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, National Air and Space Museum, and National Museum of African American History and Culture.

How do you do Washington DC in a day?

Because Washington DC’s top monuments are clustered around the National Mall and Capitol Hill, it’s easy to see them in one day. Book a driving, bike, or Segway tour to sightsee efficiently. Then, cap off your trip with a visit to one of the city’s free-to-enter Smithsonian museums. Popular choices include the National Gallery of Art, National Portrait Gallery, and National Museum of Natural History.

What’s the best way to sightsee in Washington DC?

Washington DC has dozens of iconic government buildings, memorials, museums, and other highlights. To see more of the sights in less time, book a tour by coach, bike, Segway, or pedicab. Once you’ve gotten an overview, set off on a neighborhood walking tour to discover DC’s local side.

Is 2 days enough for Washington DC?

Yes. Two days is enough to discover the best things to do in Washington DC. On day one, concentrate on the National Mall’s monuments and museums. You can also spot government buildings like the White House, Supreme Court, and US Capitol. On day two, soak up the local feel in neighborhoods such as Georgetown and Adams Morgan.

What do locals do in DC?

Washington DC locals frequent the city’s museums and cultural institutions during the day. At night, they hit trendy restaurants and bars in the 14th Street Corridor, Adams Morgan, and Shaw. You’ll find them hiking in Rock Creek Park, browsing the shelves at Politics and Prose, and attending concerts at the 9:30 Club.

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