Washington, DC
What to do in Washington, DC
Explore the National Mall
The National Mall is an iconic stretch of parkland that boasts some of the most famous monuments and memorials in the country. Visitors can marvel at the Lincoln Memorial, pay homage at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and explore the expansive grounds leading up to the impressive US Capitol building. The area is not only historically significant but also offers stunning views of the Washington Monument and the Reflecting Pool. Whether it’s a daytime stroll or a nighttime visit when the monuments are beautifully illuminated, the National Mall offers an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Visit the Smithsonian Museums
Washington, DC is home to several world-class museums, many of which are part of the Smithsonian Institution. The vast array of exhibits covers a wide range of subjects, from art and culture to science and history. Must-visit museums include the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the National Gallery of Art, among others. With free admission, these museums provide an enriching and educational experience for all ages.
Tour the Capitol Building
A visit to Washington, DC wouldn’t be complete without a tour of the US Capitol Building. This iconic landmark houses the United States Congress and is a symbol of democracy and governance. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the historic chambers, the impressive Rotunda, and learn about the legislative process and the building’s rich history. The Capitol Building stands as a testament to the nation’s government and is a must-see for anyone interested in American politics and history.
Explore the National Gallery of Art
Art enthusiasts will find endless delight in the National Gallery of Art. Home to an extensive collection of masterpieces from renowned artists such as da Vinci, Monet, and van Gogh, the museum offers a rich tapestry of artistic expression. Its two buildings, the West Building and the East Building, showcase a diverse range of artistic styles and periods. From classical sculptures to modern installations, the National Gallery of Art provides a feast for the eyes and a journey through the evolution of human creativity.
Experience the Smithsonian National Zoo
Sitting in the heart of the nation’s capital, the Smithsonian National Zoo is a beloved destination for visitors of all ages. With more than 2,000 animals representing nearly 400 species, the zoo offers an immersive and educational experience. Highlights include the giant pandas, elephants, and big cats. The sprawling 163-acre park provides a natural habitat for the animals and offers engaging exhibits and programs designed to inform and inspire visitors about wildlife conservation. Whether traveling solo, with family, or as a couple, a day at the zoo is bound to be both entertaining and enlightening.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Start your day at the National Mall, visiting iconic landmarks including the Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Spend some time exploring the Reflecting Pool and capturing the perfect photo opportunities.
Next, head to the Smithsonian Institution, home to several world-class museums. Depending on your interests, consider visiting the National Museum of American History, National Air and Space Museum, or the National Gallery of Art.
In the afternoon, take a short walk to the United States Capitol and enjoy a guided tour of the historic building. Don’t miss the opportunity to stroll through the nearby Capitol Hill neighborhood, known for its charming streets and historic row houses.
Day 2
Begin your second day at the White House, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue. While you can’t tour the interior without advance permission, the exterior and surrounding area offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Following this, make your way to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, a deeply moving and informative experience. Ensure you allocate sufficient time to immerse yourself in the museum’s exhibitions.
Later in the afternoon, visit the National Zoo, home to a diverse range of animals and exhibits. Spend time exploring the various habitats and catching sight of species from around the globe. Afterward, consider taking a leisurely stroll in the nearby Rock Creek Park to end your visit to the nation’s capital.
Food and Dining
Indulge in a variety of culinary delights at restaurants, food markets, and eateries throughout Washington, DC.
Tastes of Georgetown Food & History Walking Tour
Once a thriving port town, Georgetown is DC’s oldest neighborhood and still reveals glimpses of mule-drawn boats and flour mills. Discover Georgetown's cosmopolitan past, where people from every continent and many religions lived together and built an eclectic culinary community. More than just a premier shopping destination, Georgetown has a delicious and culturally-diverse history.
The tour will stop at several highly acclaimed restaurants during the three-hour tour. Between restaurants, your guide will share the unique history of the Georgetown neighborhood along the way. From James Beard Nominee tarts and award-winning VPN style pizza, you’ll connect to the history, people and stories behind DC’s most iconic neighborhood.. This is a small-group tour of about 8 people.
A portion of each ticket sale is donated to Bread For The City, an organization who provides food, clothing, medical care, and legal and social services to reduce the burden of poverty for DC residents.
Book Today on Viator From $129.00
U Street Food, History, and Street Art Guided Walking Tour
Discover DC's diverse culinary roots and history while we stroll and chat about the heyday of “Black Broadway” and the role this area played in during the Jazz Era. You’ll be surprised to learn how many household names had their start in the little clubs along this corridor.
Sample quintessential DC flavors while we reveal stories behind tucked away murals, sculptures, and the artists who created them. Learn about the Civil Rights riots that shaped the city and its landscape for years to come. Explore the architecture and evolution as it continues to change today.
Taste a variety of cuisines with flavors directly related to the history of this authentically DC neighborhood. U Street is an essential spot in DC and is not to be missed!
Please indicate any food allergies when booking.
A portion of each ticket sale is donated to Bread For The City, an organization who provides food, clothing, medical care, and legal and social services to reduce the burden of poverty for DC residents.
Book Today on Viator From $112.00
Georgetown Foodie Tour and Neighborhood Walk
Washington D.C.'s Georgetown neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most notable residents, local commerce, embassies, and of course, culinary gems. On this tour, you will eat your way through this well-known and prestigious neighborhood. You will learn about Georgetown's early iconic years as we stroll off-the-beaten path for a taste from various local eateries.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $79.00
Washington DC Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours
Embark on an extraordinary culinary adventure with the Secret Food Tour: Washington DC, set in the captivating neighborhood of Georgetown. Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this iconic district as you savor a handpicked selection of curated bites from the coolest restaurants in town. You will experience the charm of Georgetown by visiting notable landmarks like the dazzling Washington Harbour. Discover the steps where the legendary movie "The Exorcist" was filmed, admire the iconic Francis Scott Key Bridge, and explore the delightful canal parks that enhance the allure of Georgetown. Throughout the tour, you'll enjoy delectable food every step of the way!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $99.00
Historical Sites
Discover the rich history of the United States by visiting historical sites like the Capitol Building, White House, and Ford's Theatre.
Small-Group Guided Tour inside US Capitol & Library of Congress
Experience Capitol Hill, inside and out, with a guided small-group tour of one of the most powerful neighborhoods in the world, including reserved entry to the US Capitol and The Library of Congress. See where the United States' laws are made, visit one of the largest collections of books in the world, and learn the history of the Supreme Court and of its current operations.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $89.00
Best of DC Plus US Capitol and National Archives Reserved Entry
Get the presidential treatment with the most comprehensive Washington DC day tour! The tour includes reserved access to the National Archives Building and the U.S. Capitol Building!
Your tour includes guided stops at the White House (outside only), the National World War II and World War I Memorials, Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial.
After lunch, summer brings the opportunity for a boat ride through Georgetown and the DC Waterfront. The tour price includes a complimentary boat ride, and tourists will have the opportunity to purchase lunch at one of several waterfront restaurants in the summer. In winter, instead of the seasonal boat ride, this guided Washington DC bus tour culminates with a visit to the Pentagon and several more fascinating war memorials along the way!
Book Today on Viator From $129.00
Old Town Alexandria and Mount Vernon Tour
Visit the colorful and historic Old Town Alexandria and the historic former home of George Washington on this unmissable private tour of the two!
Walk in the footsteps of Washington with this sensational five-hour excursion from the capital. You’ll be picked up in a luxurious, climate-controlled vehicle while your guide explains the significance of some of the city’s most recognizable monuments. A short drive brings you to the candy-colored architecture of Alexandria – including the Masonic Temple and Christ Church.
Book Today on Viator From $84.00
Full-Day Tour of Washington DC with Mount Vernon & Old Alexandria
Enjoy a full day guided tour of Washington DC and Mount Vernon. After you experience the sight of the monument in their resplendent beauty in Washington DC, you will go on next to visit Alexandria landmarks and the treasured George Washington Estate in Mt Vernon.
After seeing some of Washington DC top landmarks on your way to Old Alexandria, you will view the George Washington monument and other tourist sites. The main attraction of this tour will be the Mt Vernon home of George Washington where you’re going to have 2 hours or more visit at the plantation. it’s going to be an audio guided tour where you will listen to an audio detailing the stops and the places you visit.
Book Today on Viator From $158.00
Cultural Events
Attend cultural events such as festivals, performances, and exhibitions that showcase the diverse heritage of Washington, DC.
Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of Washington, D.C.
This isn’t your 8th-grade field trip. Enjoy drinks at iconic D.C. bars with an expert local guide. Uncover the history your teacher left out of social studies class while laughing with fellow travelers from around the globe. It’s time for the adults to learn history!
On this 2 hour and 15 minute history tour pub crawl, you’ll learn the unknown tales of D.C. Discover how drinking helped shape our nation’s capital - from George Washington's adventures as a master distiller, to the dark days of Prohibition, and even parties at the White House.
D.C. Crawling offers two ticket options: The Happy Hour Package includes four beers or ciders of the guest’s choice, and the Dry Run Ticket includes the tour but no pre-purchased drinks. With either ticket option, you can purchase drinks directly from the bars.
So pull up a stool, grab a pint, and experience the Best Pub Crawl in D.C! Cheers!
Book Today on Viator From $59.00
Washington DC Morning Monuments Guided City Tour with 8+ Stops
Explore the famous landmarks and monuments of Washington, DC on this guided, 3-hour, walking and riding sightseeing tour. Hop aboard our temperature controlled bus and enjoy an educational and entertaining narrated history of the nation’s capital. Stop at the White House and the United States Capitol, plus the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and much more.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $69.00
Monuments and Memorials
Visit iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and more.
Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards
Get the most out of Arlington National Cemetery with this 2 hour, guided walking tour. Pay your respects to President John F. Kennedy, view the ceremonial Changing of the Guards at the Tomb of the Unknowns, and learn American history as you visit civil war graves and notable people throughout history. Join a local, expert guide to ensure you see all Arlington Cemetery has to offer.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $55.00
Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria Day Trip from Washington DC
Learn about the life of George Washington, first president of the United States, on this guided tour of Mount Vernon, Washington’s home of more than 40 years. On your visit to this famous historical site, explore the mansion, gardens, farms and other buildings that show what colonial life was like on the grand estate. The tour includes a bus trip through Old Town Alexandria to see several key historical attractions including places that George Washington visited in his day.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $99.00
DC in a Day: 10+ Monument Stops & Seasonal Potomac River Cruise
Explore Washington DC’s top landmarks and monuments on a 6-hour tour by deluxe touring coach with full narration from an expert guide. Stop at the White House, Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, US Capitol Building, Lincoln Memorial, and more. See 100+ sites with time to walk around 10+ of them with your guide, who shares the history and little-known facts about the nation’s capitol. Your guide will take you on an exclusive boat ride along the Potomac River from historic Georgetown while boat is operating. When the boat is not operating you will visit Jefferson and Eisenhower Memorials instead.
Top Sites:
• The Capitol Building
• Martin Luther King Memorial
• World War II Memorial
• Lincoln Memorial
• The White House
• FDR Memorial
• Vietnam War Memorial
• Korean War Memorial
• Air Force Memorial
• Iwo Jima Memorial
• Potomac River Cruise
• Jefferson Memorial (low season only, when Potomac cruise not operating)
• Eisenhower Memorial (low season only, when Potomac cruise not operating)
Book Today on Viator From $84.00
Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour
See Washington DC's historical monuments and memorials up close and personal on a 3-hour bike tour with an informative guide. Cruise around the National Mall and the Tidal Basin to see some of the most famous sights, and take breaks to walk around and explore attractions like the Lincoln Memorial.
Our Monuments tour does cross streets but there is no street riding making it the perfect option for families and those who may not have ridden a bike in an urban environment.
On a bike, you're able to see so much more than on foot or on a bus! If you've never taken a city city tour before, DC is a perfect city to give it a try. We know that once you've toured by bike, it will be the first thing you look for on your next trip to another city!
Please note that the "what to expect section" provides a sample itinerary and you may tour in a slightly different order based on what may be going on in this busy city on the day of your tour.
Book Today on Viator From $65.00
Art Galleries
Experience art collections at renowned galleries such as the National Gallery of Art, Hirshhorn Museum, and Phillips Collection.
The National Gallery of Art DC - Private Guided Museum Tour
This 2.5 hour exclusive guided museum tour will show you the world’s most iconic artists inside two extraordinary buildings. The National Gallery of Art in Washington DC is a world-class museum housing an incredible timeline of Western Art from the old masters of the Renaissance to the quintessential personalities of the 20th Century. Raphael, Rembrandt, Renoir, Picasso, and Rothko are just a handful of artist on view (as well as Vigee le Brun, Cassatt, and O’Keeffe).
Take excursion through the changes of history as told by magnificent works of art - money, power, war, hope, and triumph. From the intimacy of a da Vinci portrait to sweep of a Monet to the bold strokes of a Kandinsky, you will be dazzled by the vast holdings and the stories that accompany them. You’ll delight over familiar names and hidden gems while our passionate guides navigate you through notable highlights of technique and artwork from over the past seven centuries.
Book Today on Viator From $104.94
Parks and Gardens
Enjoy nature in the city by exploring parks like the National Mall, Rock Creek Park, and Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens.
George Washington's Mount Vernon Grounds Pass
Visit George Washington's Mount Vernon and take a self-guided tour of the first American president’s historic estate.You can stroll through the 18th-century gardens and grounds; visit the Washington family tombs; meet heritage-breed animals; and interact with people from Washington's world.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $28.00
Performing Arts
Experience live performances ranging from theater shows to musical concerts at venues like the Kennedy Center and Ford's Theatre.
Magic and Mind Reading Show: Brian Curry the Good Liar
The Good Liar is a gasp-per-minute performance unlike any other show you’ve seen. Brian Curry will pretend to read people’s mind and it has more twists than a Hitchcock film.
Give your night out a shot of espresso and look forward to a weekend that you'll be talking about forever.
Book Today on Viator From $35.00
The Magic Duel, DC's #1 Comedy Show
Comedy in a historic, luxury hotel? Yes please! Two skilled magicians battle for the title of DC's Best, performing seriously funny magic with audience involvement from start to finish. Who will win? You, the audience, will decide. The Magic Duel has earned multiple TripAdvisor Certificates of Excellence and a 5-star rating on Yelp.
An upscale alternative to the traditional comedy club, The Magic Duel is filled with laughs and snarky political humor but without the "raunchiness" of most comedy clubs - and it is in a beautiful venue so you can dress up and have a spectacular evening out. Comedy doesn't have to smell like spilled beer and stale chicken nuggets!
Book Today on Viator From $50.00
Outdoor Activities
Engage in outdoor activities such as biking, walking tours, boating, and kayaking along the Potomac River or C&O Canal.
Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley
You haven't seen Washington DC until you've seen it at night! On this narrated evening tour, you'll enjoy the sights and sounds of Washington DC, and see first-hand how Washington turns into a magical city when the sun goes down. You cannot miss this experience of a lifetime!
Select one of these two departure points:
Washington Welcome Center 1001 E ST. NW, Washington DC, 20004
Union Station 50 Massachusetts Ave. NW, Washington DC, 20002
Book Today on Viator From $59.95
Washington DC Sites at Night Bike Tour
See the famous sights of Washington by night including the Vietnam War Memorial, Jefferson, Lincoln and WWII memorials. There is no better way to spend an evening in Washington. Experience Washington on two wheels when the monuments are less crowded, the air is cooler, and the views are magnificent.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $65.00
Epic Evening e-Scooter Tour
BiPartisan Tour Company offers the newest tours in DC and the only electric scooter tour of its kind in the country! Our scooters have huge tires compared to other scooters out there, providing a smooth, stable ride, for your one-of-a-kind fun.
These amazing adult scooters provide a comfort level like no other, casual like a beach cruiser, but one might also feel like they’re floating on air because our big wheel scooters absorb everything.
With all the wide sidewalks and bike paths, the National Mall in DC is perfect for your scooter experience. The oversized tires are perfect for gravel paths and smooth as butter on pavement.
Classic handlebars provide a very natural upright standing position. The larger frame and wheels can support bigger riders with ease, but with a wide footplate, many guests can ride with both feet side by side.
These big wheel scooters are pretty much the perfect blend of low impact athletic awesomeness, cutting edge technology, and stunning design!
Book Today on Viator From $79.00
Sunset Cruise (Private) in Washington DC - Reflections DC
Experience DC in a truly personalized boat cruise, and see the city painted in the colors of the sunset and the skyline lit up in the city's lights. BYOB/BYOF to make it a picnic on the water!
** Guests must send a text message or send an e-mail address as soon as the trip is booked. **
** We cannot take expecting mothers aboard our vessel **
** No marijuana, illegal substances, or hard liquor aboard **
The Sunset Experience cruise for small groups up to 4, and is the most highly rated and reviewed boat experience in DC. Popular for dates and special occasions.
Among the sights and stories, I will be talking about some unique things I've experienced or seen that really connects you to the environment around us. The boat has plenty of room to be comfortable, but just small enough to be intimate - the perfect vessel for this type of cruise. Owner-operated, with the experience provided with pride!
Book Today on Viator From $449.00