Things to do in District of Columbia

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District of Columbia Travel Guide

A statue of a man with a globe at the top, surrounded by lions, with a sunset in the background.

A large government building with a dome, an American flag, and a full moon in the sky.

A grand hall with a central circular table surrounded by rows of desks and chairs.

A stone house with a tiled roof, surrounded by lush greenery and trees.

A NASA patch on a flight suit with a name tag reading "E. Aldrin".

District of Columbia Attractions

If you're ready to discover the best of District of Columbia, join a few of the top tours & day trips on offer, and let an experienced guide show you the most popular sights. Offering free cancellations and no added fees, our top {570 fun activities in District of Columbia fun activities in District of Columbia} are also worth looking into.

Things to do

LEGO Discovery Center Washington, D.C.

$28

per adult

DC Highlights Tour

$53

per adult

90% of travellers recommend

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District of Columbia must see attractions

1. National Mall

Admire the memorials dedicated to Washington, Jefferson and Lincoln, or relax in the immaculately kept gardens of D.C.’s most recognizable strip. With its wealth of monuments, museums and grand gardens, the National Mall can easily occupy two or three days of your visit to Washington.

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A calm river reflecting trees and a tall monument.

2. White House

Walk the corridors of power and see where presidents entertain heads of state at one of the most famous residences in the world, the White House. The neoclassical-style mansion has been the home and office of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800.

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A large white building with columns and a fountain in front.

3. United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is one of the most powerful places in the country. Within its chambers, laws are written, debated and passed. The magnificent 18th-century neoclassical-style building sits atop Capitol Hill and is home to the United States Senate and House of Representatives.

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The United States Capitol building surrounded by cherry blossom trees.

4. Smithsonian's National Zoo

Visitors of all ages love watching animal activities at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Plan to spend 2 to 3 hours wandering along trails featuring elephants, big cats and other large mammals. Bring children to the Kids’ Farm to interact with cows, alpacas and other domestic animals.

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A crosswalk with a dinosaur-themed billboard, surrounded by lush greenery and a flagpole.

5. Washington Monument

Erected in honor of the first American president, the Washington Monument is one of America’s oldest and most recognizable symbols of national pride. The alabaster obelisk at the west end of the National Mall offers not-to-be-missed views of the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln memorial and other surrounding monuments.

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The Washington Monument with a cityscape in the background.

6. Union Station Shopping Center

Step off the train or through the sublime classical façade of Union Station to enjoy great retail and dining spots at Union Station Shopping Center. This leisure destination is a bustling meeting point of tourists, hurried commuters and followers of fashion. Browse designer boutiques and purchase handmade crafts. Observe the action from cafés and food stands.

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A grand interior with arched ceilings, large windows, and classical statues.

7. National Museum of African American History and Culture

Visit the National Museum of African American History & Culture for gripping insights into the daily lives, traditions and evolution of African Americans. This Smithsonian Institution museum holds a collection of over 36,000 artifacts in addition to superb interactive exhibits, multimedia panels and commissioned artwork. Established in 2003, the museum moved to its current location in 2016, with an inauguration by Barack Obama.

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A modern building with a unique wooden facade and a glass entrance.

What to do in District of Columbia

Free Things to Do in District of Columbia

Some say the best things in life are free. Make sure you visit the following around District of Columbia:

Freer museum - Packed with interesting objects and exhibits, this place is a wonderland for inquisitive minds.

District of Columbia Arts Center - When you're ready to get cultured, stop by and observe the creativity on show.

Bundy Playground - Pencil in time to play and add a little excitement to your escape here.

Upshur Pool - A swimming costume and high spirits are all you need for a splashing great time here.

Farragut Square - Be wowed by the innovation and design of this impressive example of modernistic architecture.

Charles Sumner School Museum and Archives - If you're curious about the days of old, this is one stop you really should visit.

Dupont Circle - Stop for a while in this bustling area and imagine life as a local.

Turquoise Lake - Get out of life's fast lane and spend a bit of time out near the water.

D.C. Chamber of Commerce - Widely recognized among the locals, this site is worth dropping by.

Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church - Enjoy some quiet contemplation and discover a thing or two about this site's religious significance.

Pillsbury State Park - Appreciate the stark difference between the city and nature's rugged beauty at this spectacular spot.

McPherson Square - If you enjoy pottering about the garden, this attraction will appeal to your green thumb.

Things to Do in District of Columbia with Kids

There's fun for the entire family wherever you wander in District of Columbia. Here are some family friendly experiences to do together that'll make your vacation unforgettable:

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