Things to do in District of Columbia

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Columbus Circle
United States Capitol which includes heritage architecture, an administrative buidling and a sunset
Capitol Hill
Spring Valley showing a house and a park
National Air and Space Museum

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 {502 fun activities in District of Columbia fun activities in District of Columbia} are also worth looking into.


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District of Columbia must see attractions

1. 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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White House which includes a city, an administrative buidling and heritage architecture

2. 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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National Mall which includes heritage architecture, an administrative buidling and a city

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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United States Capitol showing an administrative buidling, heritage architecture and autumn leaves

4. 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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District of Columbia

5. 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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Smithsonian\'s National Zoo

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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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Popular day trips from District of Columbia

Frequently asked questions

What to do in District of Columbia on a sunny day?
What to do in District of Columbia on a rainy day?
What is District of Columbia famous for?
Bring your comfiest shoes because there are loads of remarkable attractions you really shouldn't miss:

  • White House
  • Washington Monument
  • Lincoln Memorial
  • United States Capitol

What should I not miss in District of Columbia?
Don't go home without ticking off the following list of superb attractions:

  • Capital One Arena
  • Georgetown University
  • Smithsonian's National Zoo
  • Nationals Park

Are there cheap things to do in District of Columbia?
If you're vacationing on a strict budget, you may like to add the following thrifty activities and tours to your schedule:


What can you do in District of Columbia for free?
You'll barely have time to grab your wallet out of your bag with so many great free things to do:

  • Lincoln Memorial
  • United States Capitol
  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • Korean War Veterans Memorial

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