12 Things to Do in D.C. This Weekend

Melissa
•
Nov 21, 2024

Named after the first president of the United States, Washington D.C. is a capital city full of interesting museums and historical monuments. Located between Virginia and Maryland, it is the perfect destination for this weekend! You cannot leave the city without visiting the White House, the U.S. Capitol, or the Lincoln Memorial!

Beyond the traditional sites usually chosen by tourists, you’ll find many other fun activities! You can spend your morning exploring the beautiful Botanical Gardens before catching a show at The John F. Kennedy Center.

Interested? In this article, we suggest some fun things to do in D.C. this weekend. Go and book your tickets now!

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12 Things to Do in D.C. This Weekend

Explore National Gallery of Art

There are so many things to see and do at this museum to fill an entire afternoon! Visitors are always amazed by its large size and expansive collection. There are two main things you wouldn’t like to miss though. First, the rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the city. Second, the only Leonardo Da Vinci oil painting on permanent exhibition in the US. If you’re into art, you should make a stop at the National Gallery of Art. That’s for sure!

Take a Historical Walk at Lincoln Memorial

Although the Lincoln Memorial is just one of the district’s many monuments, it is also among tourists’ favorites. If you’re interested in history, you’ll enjoy reading Lincoln’s two most famous speeches. Both of them are engraved into the memorial’s walls.

If you’re more into art and architecture, you’ll enjoy admiring the building’s wonderful design. The best time to visit it is after dark when it is lit and less crowded.

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Discover D.C. Waterfront Parks

The Wharf is one of the city’s waterfront spaces. First of all, it is home to the country’s oldest open-air fish market, which opened in 1805. There are plenty of interesting things to do in Washington, D.C, like listening to live music at the floating stage or The Anthem, trying haute cuisine restaurants, and even an ice-skating rink depending on the season.

Tour the U.S. Capitol Building

The U.S Capitol is possibly the greatest building in Washington. Members of both houses of Congress debate and create national policies and laws inside those walls. So, it is your exclusive chance to witness politics in action! There are many paintings and sculptures representing famous scenes from American history. This site is definitely well worth a visit if you’re vacationing in D.C.

united states capitol

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Discover the Botanical Gardens near the Capitol

The United States Botanic Garden is a living plant museum. It has many unique plants and flowers across its indoor conservatory and outdoor gardens. You’ll be able to enjoy a self-guided tour walking through the pathways in each of the sections. It is a lovely spot to wander through and see beautiful and exotic flora plants. Many say the orchid room is a show-stopper and a must-visit part of the garden.

Smithsonian’s National Zoo Family Trip

From Asian elephants to sea lions, there’s a great variety of species at the National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute in D.C. The zoo also has a playground and other attractions for kids. If you’re in D.C. for the holidays, visiting the zoo after dark is an amazing experience. There’s a ZooLights exhibition for that season, animal lanterns and lights lit the park!

Go to an Underground Comedy Show at Hotbed

If you’re looking for things to do during a weekend in D.C., head down to Hotbed in Adam’s Morgan. Underground Comedy is a best-kept secret in Washington DC. Free shows can be found almost every day they’re open. So, just grab a drink and enjoy the humor of local comedians!

Visit the White House and the Washington Monument

Even if you’re only in town for a short trip, these two symbols of the U.S. are must-see things to do during a weekend in D.C., especially for first-time visitors. Some of the city’s best-guided tours include stops at both of these iconic sites.

The White House has been home to every president since John Adams in 1800. If you choose to tour the building, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the State Floor. It includes the known East, Green, and Blue Rooms.

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On the other hand, the Washington Monument will give a special experience. Traveling to the top on glass-encased elevators, you’ll be able to enjoy a 360-degree view of the city.

Witness the Changing of the Guard at Arlington National Cemetery

In Arlington National Cemetery, the tomb of the unknown soldiers is guarded around the clock. Sentinels change every hour and witnessing this military tradition is very moving. This cemetery is also the final resting place for many historical figures. Paying your respects to the men and women who’ve served this country would be a crucial part of your visit there.

Catch a Show at Kennedy Center

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is the national cultural center of the country. It is also a memorial to President JFK. This place hosts a wide range of events such as comedy shows, ballets, plays, and concerts, among others. There’s also a rooftop terrace that offers wonderful views of the Potomac River and the surrounding area. You can join a free guided tour and learn about the venue’s history and architecture.

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Explore Dupont Underground Art Space

This is an underground art exhibit located beneath Dupont Circle. This space highlights alternative artwork within an abandoned streetcar station. There’s a wide diversity and creative expression by up-and-coming local artists. It’s probably one of the most non-touristy things you can do in D.C.

Watch a baseball game at Nationals Park

This stadium is home to the Washington Nationals, Washington’s Major League Baseball team. Opened in March 2008, it’s located in the popular Navy Yard neighborhood. You’ll be welcome to see the games which are usually from March through October. Just check the schedule and buy your tickets for a fun afternoon of baseball! You’ll find many food options such as barbecue, sandwiches, pizzas, beer, and an outpost of the DC-famous Ben’s Chili Bowl.

Tips to Visit Washington D.C. this Weekend

If our guide of things to do in D.C. this weekend has encouraged you to visit the city, there are a few tips you should know before you go:

Start with Guided Tours: If you never have been to the city, it’s hard to know where to start. A guided tour gives you a good overview of Washington. It gives you a taste of the most popular places and helps you get oriented so you can better explore the places that interest you on your own later on.
Save Money Visiting Free Attractions: Like any capital in the world, D.C. is an expensive place to visit. You can save a lot by spending your time doing all the free things. All the Smithsonian museums, monuments, and memorials are free. Even some galleries are also free, including the National Gallery.
Cheaper Hotels are Easy to find outside the District: You can find some good quality hotels in the areas around the city. Look also for hotels near a metro station. So you can hop on a train and be anywhere you want to be in less than 30 minutes or so.
Stay Connected with Yoho Mobile: While exploring the city, you’ll need a good internet connection. It’s important to have GPS access without needing to change SIM cards. So, do not miss the opportunity to do great things in Washington D.C. with Yoho Mobile!