The Ultimate And Definitive Bucket List For Everyone In Washington DC
×
Maura
Author
There is no shortage of things to do in Washington DC. Although small, DC is full of history, culture, art, sports, delicious restaurants, fun bars, and plenty of shopping. You can have any type of adventure you want in Washington DC and if you live here, or even if you are just visiting for a few days, we came up with 21 things for your Washington DC bucket list. Don’t miss out on everything DC has to offer!
1. Visit the monuments and memorials at night.
Everyone needs to experience the majestic beauty of the glowing light of monuments around the Mall at night.
2. Relax on the National Mall.
National Mall, Washington, DC, USA
Play in DC’s front yard! Relax, picnic, people watch, and soak in the culture and history of the surrounding memorials, monuments, and political buildings.
Advertisement
3. Walk and shop through Georgetown.
Georgetown, Washington, DC 20007, USA
The charming streets of Georgetown provide tons of shopping and elegant row homes that are Instagram-worthy. This is one of the best Washington DC vacation ideas.
Advertisement
4. Holocaust Memorial Museum.
Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio, 12500 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78231, USA
This moving museum offers a powerful look at one of the darkest times in the country’s history. It’s a must-see tribute.
5. Visit the National Gallery of Art.
National Gallery of Art, Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20565, USA
The National Gallery of Art has a diverse collection of historical art as well as a beautiful sculpture garden.
6. Go around the world at the embassies.
Explore the world without ever leaving DC every May at Passport DC, a month-long event that highlights DC’s diplomatic community and international scene.
7. Head to the Air and Space Museum.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
The Air and Space Museum gives visitors a look at the past and future of air and spacecraft in the country and it has the largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft in the world.
8. Taste a DC brew at one of the local breweries.
Other Half Brewing Washington DC, 1401 Okie St NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
DC craft beer scene has exploded over the last few years and you can find unique, flavorful, and satisfying local brews all over the district.
Advertisement
9. Get a half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl.
Ben's Chili Bowl, 1213 U St NW, Washington, DC 20009, USA
Everyone from former President Obama to Bono has enjoyed a half-smoke at this iconic DC restaurant.
10. Try your culinary tastes at minibar by José Andrés.
minibar by José Andrés, 855 E St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
José Andrés unique dining experience is unlike anything else there is in this world! You will be talking about it for years to come!
Related Stories
History Comes Alive At The D.C Hotel Synonymous With America’s Most Notorious Political Scandal
Here Are The 7 Most Dangerous Places In Washington DC After Dark
The Beautiful Lavender Farm In Virginia Near Washington DC Is An Enchanting Summer Day Trip Destination
11. Try out Capital Bikeshare.
Getting around DC has never been easier than hopping on and off one of the 3,500 bicycles situated around the district.
12. Tour the Arboretum.
United States National Arboretum, 3501 New York Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002, USA
The National Arboretum is a true hidden gem where you can wander for hours enjoying peaceful nature.
13. Get fresh fish at Municipal Fish Market at the Wharf on Maine Avenue.
1100 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
You can find fresh fish, prepared seafood, and a one-of-a-kind experience in the oldest operating open-air fish market in the country.
Advertisement
14. Kayak, boat, or paddle board the Potomac.
The Potomac provides the perfect place for enjoying water sports in the city.
15. Visit the International Spy Museum.
International Spy Museum, 700 L'Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
The International Spy Museum is truly one of the coolest museums in the entire city. Learn about the secret history of spies and go on a mission of your own! In my opinion, this is one of the best things to add to your list of things to do in Washington DC.
16. Shop at Eastern Market.
Eastern Market, 225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
Experience the hustle and bustle of the thriving market where you can find fresh produce, prepared meals, and handmade crafts.
17. Enjoy a food truck meal.
The food truck scene is huge in DC and every truck has delicious meals at great prices.
18. Tour the three houses of government: the White House, the Capitol, and the US Supreme Court.
You can’t experience DC without experiencing the government. You can schedule tours and visits of each of the three branches of government for free.
Advertisement
19. Watch a Nats game at Nationals Park.
Nationals Park, 1500 South Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003, USA
There’s nothing quite like watching America’s game in America’s capital on a hot summer night. It doesn’t hurt when Bryce Harper is hitting home runs.
20. Get a cupcake at Baked & Wired.
1052 Thomas Jefferson St NW, Washington, DC 20007, USA
Skip the lines at Georgetown Cupcake and get the best baked goods in the city at Baked & Wired.
21. Take a hike in Rock Creek Park.
Rock Creek Park, Washington, DC, USA
Rock Creek is Washington’s prominent park that gives all Washingtonians a perfect place to experience nature right in the heart of the city.
How many of these things can you cross off your Washington DC bucket list? While you are at it, you might want to add the 16 best things to do in Washington DC to your list!
Looking for a place to stay in Washington DC, take a look at Pendry Washington DC – The Wharf and book your stay!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.