35 Things to Do in Washington, D.C. – Best Places to Visit in D.C.

There are numerous activities to engage in within Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States. District of Columbia, as it is formally called, represents a federal district located between Virginia and Maryland that bears no relation to the state of Washington, which is situated at the opposing end of the country.

Washington, D.C. is a city intentionally designed to serve as the capital of the United States. It was carefully planned to be a beautiful city full of attractions for tourists. With smaller buildings, large gardens, and numerous tourist attractions to explore, Washington, D.C. has a distinct character unlike other cities in the country.

I know this because I live barely two hours away from the city, which is why I have visited D.C. countless times. I know almost all of its monuments and museums, most of which are free, making them the most popular places to visit in Washington, D.C. Many people decide to tour DC from NYC, since it’s one of the closest cities to NY.

Now, let’s delve into the 35 best activities to engage in within Washington, D.C. However, if your time within the city will be brief, focus on the premier ten top tourist spots in Washington, D.C. I also recommend taking this 4-hour conducted tour to initiate your visit if you want to gain knowledge about the history of the city and receive transportation to all the important places.

1. The US Capitol, an important building to visit in Washington, D.C.

The Capitol building is one of the fundamental sites to explore in Washington, D.C. It symbolizes not only the city but also the United States, making it indispensable to see. It hosts the two legislative arms of the United States Congress, the Senate (in the north wing), and the House of Representatives (in the south wing).

Built in a clean, light colored neoclassical design, this building was among the first in the city. George Washington, the first president of the United States, placed the foundational stone in 1793. Most notably, its dome reaches 289 feet high, making it one of the tallest structures in the city and nearly visible from any viewpoint.

In addition to the edifice having a significant amount of political and historical meaning, and being one of the premier sights in Washington, D.C., it provides complimentary guided excursions each day, Monday through Saturday, from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM, which depart from the Visitor Center. While making a reservation is not obligatory, it’s highly recommended, and you can do it from here.

During the visitation, you`ll tour the Rotunda, an incredible circular area beneath the dome where artistic works are displayed. Here you can view the impressive fresco,The Apotheosis of Washington, painted inside. You`ll also tour the Crypt and the National Statuary Hall. Congressional sessions are accessible to the public too, but you`ll need a special pass obtainable here.

The Capitol is situated at the eastern end of the National Mall, the area with the primary tourist attractions in D.C.

2. Lincoln Memorial, one of the main attractions of Washington, D.C.

At the opposite end of the National Mall, with the Potomac River behind it, you’ll find the Lincoln Memorial, one of the primary monuments in Washington, D.C.

Its construction commenced in 1914 in a style reminiscent of the Doric temples of ancient Greece. It has 36 columns that are 32 feet high. Limestone and marble were utilized to maintain the same lavish, white appearance of the remainder of the city’s official buildings. Inside, a 20 foot-high sculpture depicts Abraham Lincoln in a seated position.

The monument has borne witness to many defining moments in history. Perhaps most notably Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” civil rights speech from 1963. It has additionally been prominently featured on the big screen multiple times, like the scene where Forrest Gump is reunited with Jenny by the expansive Reflecting Pool before the landmark.

Visiting is, undeniably, one of the best free exercisesto do in Washington. D.C. Since it is open 24 hours every day, I suggest visiting it first thing in the first part of the day on the off chance that you don’t want to see a large number of different travelers.

If you visit it while it’s still tranquil, I advise sitting on its marble stairs so you can see beautiful panoramas of both the Capitol and the Washington Monument, the next point we will discuss in our list of noteworthy places to visit in D.C.

3. Washington Monument, something you must visit in D.C.

The Washington Monument is located in the National Mall, situated between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial and in front of the White House. This 555 foot towering white obelisk was considered the tallest structure globally from 1884 until 1889. It is primarily made of marble, granite, and sandstone, and today, it can be seen from nearly any area in the city.

While its construction was organized 10 days after the passing of former President George Washington as a tribute to him, insufficient funding brought on by the Civil War delayed the monument`s completion for nearly 4 decades.

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There is also a museum located at the top of the Washington Monument. When returning to ground level, the elevator will pause at different points to allow viewing of some of the 193 memorial inscriptions found inside the obelisk. It is undoubtedly one of the primary monuments in Washington, D.C.

4. National Mall, one of the most important places to go in Washington, D.C.

National Mall is the name of the expansive garden region surrounded by museums and monuments that extends from the Washington Monument to the Capitol. However, following the development of the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall was viewed as everything from that monument to the Capitol, incorporating West Potomac Park.

As evident through the previous discussion, the three primary areas outlined within this text are all situated in the National Mall, confirming its status as an indispensable location to tour in Washington, D.C. In addition to the Capitol, Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument, other noteworthy places can be found such as the Smithsonian, the world`s largest research and museum complex, the Botanical Garden as well as assorted war memorials.

If you are only going to visit Washington, D.C. for one day, everything that needs to be seen is located in the National Mall. It takes approximately 30 minutes to walk between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial, with the Washington Monument located 10 minutes from the Lincoln Memorial and 20 minutes from the Capitol (here is a map of the National Mall in Washington DC that will help you locate yourself).

Excursions of the capitol building are accessible to the public, so it’s a complimentary activity to do in Salt Lake City if the conditions are unfavorable. Inside, you’ll find portraits of prior State Representatives and Congress members, as well as temporary exhibitions spanning art, history, and politics.

5. Visit the White House, an unmissable thing to do in Washington, D.C.

The White House is the formal residence and workplace of the president of the United States.

Among the places to visit in Washington D.C., the White House requires a bit more planning, since you will need to make a visit request between 3 months and 21 days before the date of your visit.

If you are an American citizen, you should contact your member of Congress here. If you are a citizen of a foreign country, request a visit at your country’s embassy in Washington, D.C. (you can find them here). In any case, you must send the following data by email of everyone visiting the White House with you: full name, date of birth, residence address, gender, citizenship, the date on which you want to visit the White House, and passport number. If you are an American citizen, you must also give your Social Security number. If you aren’t, you must provide the address where you are lodging in Washington, D.C. You can check our suggested places to stay in Washington D.C.

There are a limited number of visits allowed each day, so requesting your visit sooner rather than later makes it easier to secure a time slot. Visiting hours are from 7:30 AM to 11:30 AM Tuesday through Thursday and from 7:30 AM to 1:30 PM on Friday and Saturday. If approved, they will provide a specific visiting time. Be sure to arrive at least half an hour in advance, as you will need to pass through security screenings. Many personal items, such as cameras and backpacks, are prohibited from entering the White House. Here is a complete list so you know what to leave elsewhere.

While planning a trip to the executive mansion may seem challenging, it welcomes over 5,000 visitors daily, making a visit to the White House one of the top free activities in Washington, D.C.

6. The Pentagon, the safest building in the world

The Pentagon is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defence and one of the most secure buildings globally. It is just across the Potomac River in Virginia, only a 6-minute drive from the National Mall.

It was officially opened during the Second World War to unite the different armed forces that, until then, had been circulated in dissimilar places. Its pentagonal foundation architecture was presumed to be the most proficient office building globally. Even though there are 17.5 miles of hallways, spread out over 5 levels, it only takes a utmost of 7 minutes to get anywhere on foot.

Visiting the Pentagon is one of the best cost-free activities to partake in in Washington, D.C., but you will have to book a tour well in advance here, somewhere between 14 and 90 days prior to the excursion. Visitation hours are from 10 AM to 4 PM, Monday via Thursday, and from 12 PM to 4 PM on Friday. When you book, you will be allocated a visit timeframe. You must show up an hour in advance to register at the Pentagon tour window, and you must follow the security measures described here.

While exploring the building, some areas are kept private to protect certain details of its infrastructure. During the scheduled tour, permitted sections will demonstrate the histories of the four main military branches serving the nation. Attendees will visit commemorative sites like the Memorial Chapel, Hall of Heroes, and memorial near the front recognizing the lives lost from American Airlines Flight 77 on September 11, 2001, in addition to other exhibits on display.

For me, it’s one of the indispensable places to explore in Washington, D.C. if it’s your initial time in the city.

7. Arlington National Cemetery, the most famous cemetery in the country

When considering attractions in Washington, D.C., one may not initially think of visiting a cemetery. However, the Arlington National Cemetery is far from an ordinary location. Veterans of all United States conflicts since the Civil War, as well as past US presidents and astronauts, are commemorated here. The cemetery has frequently been depicted on television and is recognizable by its array of over 300,000 aligned white headstones.

It’s also located on the other side of the Potomac River, in Virginia, and adjacent to the Pentagon. Reaching there takes just 10 minutes by vehicle from the National Mall, but if you don’t have a mode of transportation, I recommend the same 4-hour conducted tour that I proposed to visit the National Mall. Additionally to all the sights in downtown D.C., you’ll tour Arlington Cemetery and the Pentagon.

The most visited area of the cemetery is the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, an interesting site to visit in Washington, D.C. This tomb is dedicated to soldiers who perished in combat but remain unidentified. It has a continuous guard 24 hours per day, and the changing of the guard ceremony, which is quite popular among visitors, takes place every hour from October 1 to March 31, and every half hour from April 1 to September 30.

President Kennedy was also interred in this cemetery, next to whose plaque you can find “ The Eternal Flame,” which burns incessantly.

8. Smithsonian Institution Building, an interesting place to go in Washington, D.C.

The Smithsonian Institute, also referred to as the “Castle,” serves as the headquarters of the largest complex of research facilities and museums worldwide, containing 19 museums, 9 research centers, and a zoological garden.

While some of the museums are situated in locales such as New York, Virginia or Panama, the majority can be found within the National Mall area of Washington D.C. Those exhibiting the most interest (or at least are of most enjoyment based on personal preference) include the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, the Smithsonian American Art Museum and the National Museum of American History. Best of all, admission is free to all. Even for those not customarily drawn to museums, the broad range present ensures something for everyone. A listing of all included museums can be viewed here.

Exploring museums is undoubtedly the most popular activity to partake in while in Washington, D.C.

9. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the best museum in Washington

The National Air and Space Museum is the best museum in Washington, D.C. to engage visitors of all ages. It’s likely one of the top places to visit in Washington, D.C. with children.

It contains the most extensive collection of airplanes and spaceships globally, many of which took part in pivotal historical moments. You will see everything from the Wright brothers’ landmark Flyer, the initial motorized airplane, to the Spirit of St. Louis, which completed the first non-stop transatlantic flight. You’ll also find the Apollo 11 command module, a design of the International Space Station, and other temporary exhibits.

If you’re passionate about aerospace history and would like to have a guide for the visit, you can book one here, although, for the general public, it isn’t necessary. The museum is free and on the National Mall, so I think visiting it is a definitely worthwhile activity in Washington D.C.

10. National Museum of Natural History, a great museum to visit in Washington

The National Museum of Natural History, also on the National Mall, is another of the most popular museums to tour in Washington, D.C. It`s recommended to arrive before opening hours since lengthy queues to enter are rather typical.

While admission is free, the museum is quite controversial. After visiting several times myself, I am uncertain whether it ranks among the top things to see in Washington, D.C. or among the worst. Its collection presents taxidermied specimens typically arranged to resemble their natural habitats. Some aspects appeal to its educational purpose in exposing people lacking direct opportunities to observe biodiversity. It also aims to replace less ethical zoos. However, its approach remains quite debatable.

However, it is difficult to ignore that it was not worth sacrificing the lives of all those creatures. Many species depicted are in danger of extinction, and, while many “collections” are donated by zoos when the animals pass away, numerous others are hunting trophies. The museum itself does not hunt or kill wildlife, but it does receive and showcase them.

In addition to the different taxidermy sections, one can find other areas featuring plants, fossils, and minerals (my favorite type), as well as various temporary exhibitions.

If you still have uncertainties on if it’s a place you want to see in Washington, D.C., I recommend taking a look at this article.

11. Smithsonian American Art Museum and Renwick Gallery, Washington, D.C.

The American Museum of American Art is not one of the most frequented museums in Washington, D.C. Nevertheless, it’s most likely one of our beloved ones. We appreciate landscape photography and often look for inspiration from additional art types like painting. In this museum, amid works that cover all areas and creative movements in the history of the United States, there are several creations of the painters of the Hudson River School; a generation of painters who recorded the magic of American landscapes in the 19th century. Seeing the works of Albert Bierstadt among others is, without doubt, one of the things to do in D.C. that we cherish the most.

The museum has no charge, and while it is not on the National Mall, it doesn’t take more than 15 minutes to walk from the National Museum of Natural History to the American Art Museum. It occupies a swanky neo-Greek-style building that was previously the Patent Office, which it shares with the National Portrait Gallery, also a Smithsonian museum.

12. National Museum of American History, another museum to go to in D.C.

The National Museum of American History in Washington, D.C. is undisputedly one of the best museums in Washington. Within its walls, you will find everything imaginable concerning the history of the United States, with various rooms that allow you to comprehend why, until 1980, it was known as the Museum of History and Technology.

Visitors will find a room chronicling the history of transportation within the United States, displaying renowned locomotives and automobiles that are truly remarkable, gowns worn by First Ladies, and an exhibition featuring artifacts and curios from American presidents. Additional details on covered topics can be viewed here.

I particularly found the exhibit on LGBTQ history in the United States very intriguing, as well as the one that depicts the evolution of Apple from the seventies until now. It’s certainly an interesting place to visit in Washington, D.C. Since it’s also on the National Mall and admission is free, it’s highly advisable that you visit it.

13. Jefferson Memorial, another presidential memorial to visit in Washington

The monument honoring President Thomas Jefferson, the third head of state of the United States and one of the Founding Fathers of the nation, is known as the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. This structure in a classical style consistent with other monuments in Washington, D.C., where white predominates, is dedicated to the esteemed leader. It draws attention for its marble stairs and its 128 foot tall dome visible from the National Mall along the Tidal Basin. Situated near the Washington Monument and the White House, it provides an iconic landmark.

Inside is a 20 foot-high statue of Jefferson and different engravings on the walls with fragments of the ex-president’s writings. If you visit the city in spring, enjoying a stroll to the Jefferson Memorial, surrounded by hundreds of cherry blossoms, is one of the best activities to do in Washington, D.C.

14. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, another visit you can’t miss in Washington, D.C.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is among the few National Mall landmarks not dedicated to a president. It lies within West Potomac Park, close to where Lincoln Memorial, the location of his famed “I Have a Dream” speech from 1963.

The site is without question one of the indispensable locations to go to in D.C., since this activist engaged in crucial work advancing civil rights in America.

His renowned speech coincided with the centenary of the Emancipation Proclamation, when Abraham Lincoln endorsed the document that freed all slaves in the Confederate States of America.

15. Ford’s Theatre and Abraham Lincoln’s Assassination

The Ford Theater has been offering performances since 1860. However, it has become one of the primary places to visit in Washington, D.C. since it was the location where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated in 1865, towards the end of the American Civil War.

Abraham Lincoln was killed in a senseless act with a bullet to the head by John Wilkes Booth. To gain deeper insight into these and other details, you can enroll in a guided walking tour of Ford`s Theater, an excellent method for learning more about pivotal events in America`s history.

16. National Gallery of Art, an important art museum in Washington, D.C.

The National Gallery of Art, on the National Mall, is another of the museums without cost in Washington, D.C. that is associated with the Smithsonian.

The main building resembles other monuments found in Washington, D.C., with a marble neoclassical design and a spectacular dome that reveals that the architect responsible for the gallery also designed the Jefferson Memorial.

Some of the most important works found here belong to artists such as Van Gogh, Cézanne, Monet, and Gauguin among others. You can visit independently or attend a free guided tour that must be reserved in advance.

The gallery also has an outdoor sculpture garden that provides the potential for enjoying art outside, which is where concerts, conferences, and temporary displays are held on certain dates. If you like art, it’s, without uncertainty, a vital place to visit in Washington, D.C.

17. US Botanic Garden, a great thing to do in D.C.

The US Botanical Garden is one of the most wonderful and satisfying spots to visit in Washington, D.C. It has 26,000 plants spread crosswise over various assortments and biological communities: oasis, wildernesses, orchids, odd plants, jungle, and so forth.

Those seeking an unforgettable thrill should check out The STRAT‘s heart-pounding attractions. They are located atop the SkyPod observation deck over 1,149 feet above the Strip, providing breathtaking panoramic views.

18. Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a poignant tourist attraction in Washington, D.C.

The monument dedicated to the United States armed forces who fought in the Vietnam War from 1955 to 1975 honors them. Located in Constitution Gardens north of the Reflecting Pool facing the Lincoln Memorial, it consists of three elements: The Three Soldiers, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall.

The most visited section displays the names of those who lost their lives or went missing during the war, with diamonds and crosses used to distinguish between the fatalities and disappeared, respectively. Nearby is a directory allowing family members to locate the memorials for their loved ones.

19. Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial faces the Vietnam Memorial and lies south of the Reflecting Pool. It honors veterans who fought in the Korean War from 1950 to 1953, crafted in the shape of a triangle intersecting a circle. Within the triangle stand 19 tall stainless steel statues over 7 feet portraying a platoon on patrol.

On the south side is a 164-foot black granite wall with etchings showing photographs of the war. Around the Pool of Remembrance, the fallen, wounded, disappeared, and prisoners are named.

20. The World War II Memorial, a visit to do in Washington, D.C.

The World War II National Monument, located between the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument on the National Mall, is something you are likely to pass by almost without realizing due to its positioning.

For me, in addition to what this monument represents, dedicated to the Americans who died in the Second World War, it’s one of the most beautiful landmarks to visit in Washington, D.C.

Debuting in 2004, it gained designation that same year as a National Park. It stands out for its composition of 56 17-foot granite monuments arranged in two facing semicircles divided by an oval reservoir. Each monument bears the name of one of the 50 main states, territories, and associated free territories comprising the United States.

In the middle of each semicircle, you’ll find a triumphal archway of 43 feet, which reads “Atlantic” in the north and “Pacific” in the south.

My favorite part is the Freedom Wall, located west of the plaza overlooking the Reflecting Pool and the Lincoln Memorial. Embedded in this wall are 4,048 gold stars, with each representing 100 Americans who died during the war. Definitely, an emotional place to explore in Washington, D.C.

21. Library of Congress, the oldest federal cultural institution in the United States

The Library of Congress is the largest library globally. It houses over 158 million documents: books, maps, photographs, films, prints, sheet music, audio, and others. You can find a copy of the 15th-century Gutenberg Bible here as well as a draft of the United States Declaration of Independence.

Besides being one of the most visited places in Washington, D.C., it`s the most established federal cultural institution in the country and serves to assist the investigative part of Congress. It`s contained in the Thomas Jefferson Building, behind the Capitol, and delivers free guided tours Monday through Saturday in diverse languages. You can view the agenda here.

22. The Supreme Court, the highest court in the federal judiciary of the United States

Visiting the United States Supreme Court, the highest court in the country, is another thing to do in Washington, D.C. It’s located behind the Capitol and next to the National Library in the Temple of Justice, which has been the permanent and sole residence of the Supreme Court since 1790.

The architecture is beautiful. It’s reminiscent of an ancient Greek temple, where nearly everything has been constructed from white marble. It’s accessible to visitors from Monday to Friday from 9 AM to 4:30 PM, although you can check on its website for the few days and hours it’s closed during the year.

23. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, a must-visit in Washington, D.C.

Located beside the Tidal Basin near the Martin Luther King Jr Monument, the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial pays homage to the former president as well as the period in history represented. It comprises 4 sections each representing one of Roosevelt’s terms through inscriptions, sculptures, moving water features, and illustrative panels.

Among the most popular portions of the memorial is the substantial sculpture of President Roosevelt accompanied by his devoted dog Fala. A subsequent addition also depicted the president confined to a wheelchair, as various groups sought greater representation of his disability. Furthermore, the monument`s designers duly considered Roosevelt`s condition, incorporating accessibility features such as Brailled inscriptions.

It is certainly one of the most peculiar places to explore in Washington, D.C., especially if you visit during spring, when it will be surrounded by cherry blossoms.

24. International Spy Museum, the most curious museum in Washington, D.C.

Though admission is not complimentary like many other museums in Washington, D.C., exploring the International Spy Museum is one of the most popular activities in Washington, D.C. The admission price is quite reasonable, so I do believe it`s worthwhile.

This museum houses the most extensive accumulation of artifacts related to espionage around the world, spanning history. It reviews intelligence services` pivotal roles in history from World War II to the Cold War to international terrorism.

The most controverted section is the presentation on torture and illegal wiretapping, as well as the debatable interrogation techniques that have been utilized across history.

25. Washington National Cathedral, a beautiful sight to visit in Washington, D.C.

Exploring the Washington National Cathedral is another activity one can partake in within Washington, D.C. However, note its availability is solely free of charge on Sundays. Throughout the rest of the week, admission incorporates a guided tour for a fee that can be checked here.

It’s the sixth-largest cathedral globally and the second-largest one within the country. Different formal ceremonies have been held in the striking neo-Gothic building, which is also known as the “National Place of Prayer”. Some of the most significant included the funerals of presidents of the United States such as Dwight Eisenhower, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan, and George H.W. Bush.

Bear in mind that the cathedral is not near the city center, so I only suggest visiting it if you will be in the city for more than 3 or 4 days. However, as it’s attractive, I wanted to include it on our list of things to do in Washington, D.C.

26. Georgetown, the most popular neighborhood in Washington, D.C.

Georgetown is one of the most scenic neighborhoods in the city, situated north of the Lincoln Memorial by the shores of the Potomac River. It gained immense popularity in the 1960s, as the Kennedy family helped elevate its profile tremendously. President John Kennedy and Jacqueline met here, and she later returned to the community after experiencing widowhood.

If Washington, D.C. looks too “serious” to you, I suggest taking a walk around this neighborhood, since it is full of life and is one of the best things to do in Washington that are free.

Its main street, the M, has numerous local culinary specialties; you can find pastry outlets, cupcake shops, eco cafes, cheese shops, steak houses, greengrocers, sandwich bars, and more, plus numerous small clothing boutiques.

The prestigious Georgetown University is situated in this area, so many youthful students and drink venues catering to their needs can be found. For a more serene experience, I suggest taking a stroll along the scenic Potomac River trails in Georgetown Waterfront Park.

27. Tidal Basin, the setting of the most important memorials in Washington

I have already mentioned the Tidal Basin, an artificial inlet adjacent to the Potomac River that is part of West Potomac Park and where the memorials to Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Martin Luther King, Jr. are located, several times throughout this article.

However, in my view it deserves inclusion among the tourist places worth visiting in Washington, D.C. since its natural beauty is extraordinary. It contains 3,750 Japanese cherry trees which burst into bloom between the final week of March and the initial week of April, attracting thousands of visitors yearly.

28. Adams Morgan, a neighborhood with more things to do in Washington, D.C.

If you are pondering what actions to partake in within Washington D.C. during the nighttime hours, you must visit the Adams Morgan neighborhood. It`s culturally diverse and pleasing to view and has superb nightlife thanks to its bars, concert halls, international eateries, and pubs.

However, throughout the day, its charm does not fade away as it is a highly busy commercial area, with vintage clothing stores and used bookshops housed in picturesque structures dating back to the late 19th century. It is undoubtedly the coolest neighborhood in Washington, D.C., even though since it is somewhat isolated, I only recommend exploring it if you have sufficient time or want to go partying.

29. United States National Arboretum, a beautiful garden to visit in Washington

The United States National Arboretum is a botanical park that is dedicated predominantly to woody plants and trees. It expands across 180 hectares in which there are 22 Corinthian columns that formerly belonged to the Capitol building.

Inside it you can find the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum, alongside a large collection of azaleas, dogwoods, and ferns. If you are a nature lover, you cannot miss it. Admission is free, and they also offer guided tours that you can book here.

30. Theodore Roosevelt Island, a perfect place to hike in Washington, D.C.

Theodore Roosevelt Island serves as a nature reserve and memorial honoring President Roosevelt. It lies along the Potomac River, just north of the Lincoln Memorial.

In the center of the island lies a huge statue of the President with two fountains and four granite plates containing phrases regarding the conservation philosophy of Roosevelt, who advocated a unique system protecting all the national parks across the country.

This area is perfect for hiking, as it contains three trails where flora and fauna of the location can be discovered. Nature enthusiasts will find it offers the best activity in Washington, D.C.

31. Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception is among the most significant shrines dedicated to the Virgin Mary in the US. It is the biggest church in the country and the eighth largest worldwide. It accommodates 6,000 individuals and extends 460 feet in length, 70 feet in width, and 237 feet at its highest point.

A visit to this place of worship, which blends various Romanesque and Byzantine styles, is free of charge. Though not located near the city centre, it receives around a million tourists annually. Those such as Pope Benedict XVI, Pope John Paul II, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta have previously come to see it.

I see it as an intriguing place to visit in Washington, D.C. whether you adhere to certain beliefs or not.

32. Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens, a lovely place to go in D.C.

Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is situated on the border between Washington D.C. and Maryland, along the banks of the Anacostia River.

Within contains the wetlands and lily ponds of Kenilworth swamp with beautiful blooms of water lilies and lotus. Though somewhat distant from the city center near the Arboretum, I believe it to be one of the ideal places to unwind and relax amid nature. Visiting here is one of th e prime activities to experience in Washington, D.C. Entry is also free-of-charge. Operating hours can be viewed here.

33. Old Post Office Pavilion, a historical building to visit in Washington, D.C.

The Old Post Office Pavilion is a building designed in the Richardsonian Romanesque-style, noted for its immense clock tower that is almost 315 feet tall. It was used as a post office and served various different functions until Donald Trump transformed it into a luxury hotel, the Trump International Washington D.C.

It includes an observatory upstairs where visitors can appreciate an impressive panoramic perspective of the city of Washington totally free, even if they are not lodging at the hotel, so it’s one of the essential activities to partake in in Washington, D.C.

34. Rock Creek Park, one of the best things to do in D.C.

Rock Creek Park is the oldest preserved natural urban park within the National Park System. It covers an area of 3 square miles following the Rock Creek stream valley.

If you are going to spend a few days in the city and you are unsure of activities to engage in within Washington, D.C. that involve children, I suggest considering it. In addition to being perfect for hiking, cycling, and gliding on wheels, it contains playgrounds, a planetarium, a concert venue, and areas to have a picnic.

35. Meridian Hill Park, an amazing urban park to go to in Washington D.C.

Meridian Hill Park is considered part of Rock Creek Park administratively. However, they aren’t close in location. Let’s say it’s the city center version of Rock Creek.

This park contains some distinctive features, including the sole equestrian female statue in Washington depicting Joan of Arc and a cascading fountain that is the largest of its kind in North America. It is undoubtedly the most popular green space for locals in Washington, who escape here from the huge crowds of visitors at the National Mall.

It is especially popular on summer Sundays, as a gathering of percussion artists occurs where they have fun making music together. The tradition dates back to the 1960s when drummers came together to celebrate black empowerment. Other weekly events include swing dance lessons and impromptu jazz concerts. No surprise it’s the locals` favorite park and an engaging place to visit in Washington, D.C.

That’s all I advise you experience in Washington, D.C. I have also constructed this map of Washington D.C. that you can download to have all the places of interest accessible and assist you arrange your visit.

If you have any inquiries, please feel free to leave a comment. Enjoy your visit to Washington, D.C.!