1. Watch history at the Inauguration Parade.
Every four years, the country swears in a President and Washington DC becomes a whirl of activity. While you need tickets to have a seat at the Inauguration, you can watch the Inauguration Parade, which features the procession of military regiments, marching bands, floats and much more.
2. Hike the Valley Trail.
The Valley Trail is a 5.5 mile trail that runs alongside Rock Creek in Rock Creek Park. It has a variety of rocky and smooth terrain for runners, walker and hikers.
3. Search for the answers during the Post Hunt.
Every year the Washington Post hosts an annual puzzle hunt in DC where Hunters try to search out clues and solve puzzles around Washington DC.
4. Take a segway tour.
See the city in a fun way with a DC Segway tour! Learn the history, see the sites and explore the District on a segway. Extra bonus points for segway races.
5. Go around the world during Passport DC.
Every year more than 40 embassies open their doors to DC visitors and residents during Passport DC. Tour the embassies, watch cultural demonstrations and presentations, try foods from around the world and see other parts of the world without ever leaving DC!
6. Listen to and dance to the drum circle at Meridian Hill Park.
Every Sunday at 3pm, Meridian Hill (also known as Malcolm X Park) is filled with drums and dancers at a cultural tradition that has spanned 40 years. There are always a mix of dancers, yogis, jugglers and other entertainments. It’s uplifting and fun for everyone!
7. See the cherry blossoms.
It’s incredibly touristy and it is always crowded but there is something so beautiful and magical about the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. Wake up extra early, grab a coffee and watch the sunrise over the beautiful views.
8. Play kickball on the Mall.
Playing on a kickball team is a rite of passage for most DC residents. Every fall and spring, teams come out to play and then, of course, hit the bars afterwards.
9. Take a night time stroll and see the monuments.
Every evening the monuments are lit up and the glistening lights make for a breath-taking sights. You haven’t lived until you’ve spent a late night exploring in the glow of the Washington Monument.
10. Have breakfast with the animals.
The National Zoo opens every day around six am and early morning is the best time to catch the animals sine its when they are most active. You might even catch the orangutans high above you climbing across their ropes.
11. Experience First Friday in Dupont Circle.
A long standing Dupont Circle tradition, First Friday is a cultural and artistic celebration every month. On the first Friday of the month, Dupont Circle art galleries keep late hours, open new exhibits and often offer food and drinks for art lovers to browse, snack and sip.
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.