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Things to Do in Washington

Things to Do in Washington

Washington District Of Columbia, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Embrace D.C.'s green spaces and waterways for refreshing outdoor adventures, offering a contrast to the urban landscape.

Hiking & Trekking

Rock Creek Park

Offers numerous trails, from easy surfaced trails to moderate dirt trails. The Western Ridge Trail a good challenge.

C&O Canal Towpath

A flat, well-maintained path stretches for miles along the Potomac River, ideal for walking, jogging, or cycling.

Great Falls Park nearby

More challenging rocky trails and stunning views of dramatic waterfalls on the Potomac River. Trails range from easy overlooks to strenuous rock scrambles.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Rentals are available on the Potomac River from locations like Thompson Boat Center or The Wharf.
  • Boat Cruises: Sightseeing cruises, like those by Spirit of Washington, provide narrated tours of the Potomac River. Find cruises on GetYourGuide.
  • Wildlife Encounters: National Zoo (free) for diverse animals; Rock Creek Park for birdwatching.
  • Cycling Routes: Capital Crescent Trail (Georgetown to Bethesda) and Mount Vernon Trail (along Potomac to Old Town Alexandria) are popular.

Unique Views

  • Boat cruises present monuments and significant locations from the water.
  • Mount Vernon Trail offers scenic views and a historic ride.
  • Rock Creek Park offers an immersed nature experience within the city.

Trail Variety

  • Rock Creek Park for leisurely strolls to moderate dirt trails.
  • C&O Canal Towpath is flat and well-maintained.
  • Great Falls Park for challenging rocky trails.
  • Suitable for all fitness levels.

Adventure Sports

  • D.C. Is not a major destination for high-adrenaline sports.
  • Focus is on urban exploration and softer outdoor recreation.
  • Great Falls Park offers rock climbing (requires experience).
  • Limited mountain biking options exist within D.C. Proper.

Safety Reminder for Outdoor Activities

Always prepare for outdoor activities with appropriate gear, water, and understanding of the area. Check weather conditions before you go out, especially for water sports or challenging hikes.

Cultural Immersion

Deepen your understanding of D.C.'s rich cultural landscape through immersive experiences beyond standard going to museums.

Workshops & Performances

  • Workshops and Classes: Opportunities for art, craft, music, or dance workshops exist; research local community centers or specialized studios.
  • Kennedy Center: Offers a wide range of performances, including opera, ballet, theater, and symphony.
  • Ford's Theatre: Experience live theatrical performances in this historically significant venue.
  • Millennium Stage at Kennedy Center: Provides a complimentary daily performance at 6 PM, making high-quality culture accessible.

Community & Language

Community-Based Tourism Initiatives

Join specialized walking tours in different neighborhoods like the U Street Black Broadway district or Adams Morgan. These tours explore cultural history and community narratives. Find local tours on GetYourGuide.

Language Learning Opportunities

Various language schools exist in D.C. For longer stays or more formal learning. English is the predominant language, but the city's international population means you will hear many languages spoken.

Local Festivals

Attend neighborhood festivals that celebrate specific cultures or historical events, offering a chance to interact with local communities and experience unique traditions.

Passport D.C. May

Many of D.C.'s embassies open their doors to the public for cultural showcases, offering an unique opportunity to experience global cultures.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival Summer

This annual event on the National Mall showcases diverse cultures through music, dance, crafts, and food, a celebration of heritage.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Spring

A major event celebrating the blooming of the cherry trees, featuring parades, cultural performances, and family activities.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find moments of calm and rejuvenation amidst your D.C. Explorations, offering a tranquil escape from sightseeing.

Spa & Retreats

  • Spa and Wellness Center Recommendations: Luxury hotels like the Four Seasons and Mandarin Oriental house high-end spas.
  • Independent Spas: Numerous independent spas operate throughout the city, providing a variety of wellness services.
  • Yoga and Meditation: D.C. Hosts numerous yoga studios offering drop-in classes for various styles.
  • No major dedicated yoga or meditation retreat centers exist within D.C. Itself; travel outside the city for such experiences.

Pools & Relaxation

Hotel Pools

Some D.C. Hotels, especially luxury ones, feature rooftop or indoor pools, offering a refreshing break during warmer months.

Public Pools

D.C. Operates public outdoor pools during the summer season, providing access for residents and visitors.

No Natural Beaches

There are no natural coastlines within Washington D.C.; coastal trips would require travel to Maryland or Delaware.

Other Wellness Notes

Hot Springs

Geothermal springs or natural therapy options are not available in the immediate D.C. Region.

Traditional Healing

Traditional healing practices are not a prominent feature of D.C. Tourism. Mainstream Western medicine is the prevalent healthcare system.

Mindful Moments

Consider a peaceful stroll through the U.S. Botanic Garden or Rock Creek Park for a revitalizing mental break.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Washington D.C. Has a city after dark, with diverse options for entertainment, catering to various tastes.

Live Music & Theater

  • Live Music Venues: Black Cat for alternative music, Blues Alley for historic jazz, The Anthem at The Wharf for major touring artists.
  • Kennedy Center: Features classical, jazz, and diverse music performances, often with world-renowned artists.
  • Venues for Theater And performances: Ford's Theatre, Arena Stage, National Theatre, Warner Theatre, and Woolly Mammoth Theatre present various plays and shows.
  • Book tickets in advance for popular shows and shows. Find tickets on GetYourGuide.

Nightclubs & Bars

Nightclubs and Dancing

Neighborhoods like U Street, Adams Morgan, and Dupont Circle host various nightclubs and dance venues, catering to different music tastes and crowds.

Bar Districts and Pub Crawls

U Street Corridor for live music, craft cocktails. Dupont Circle for upscale bars and a hub for the LGBTQ+ community. Shaw for trendy bars and breweries. Georgetown for upscale pubs.

Late-Night Entertainment

Many bars and clubs remain open until 2 AM on weekdays and extend hours to 3 AM on weekends (Friday and Saturday nights).

Cocktail Scene

D.C. Is known for its sophisticated cocktail bars, especially in neighborhoods like Shaw and Dupont Circle, where skilled mixologists craft innovative drinks.

Brewery Culture

Explore local artisan breweries like DC Brau and Atlas Brew Works, offering taprooms and their beers to many restaurants and bars.

Diverse Music

From jazz to alternative and popular touring artists, D.C.'s venues offer a broad spectrum of musical genres throughout the week.

Alcohol Laws

Legal drinking age is 21. Carry valid identification. Public consumption of alcohol is generally prohibited.

Shopping & Markets

Washington D.C. Offers diverse shopping experiences, from historic markets to high-end boutiques, catering to various tastes and budgets.

Traditional Markets

  • Eastern Market (Capitol Hill): A historic public market operating for over 140 years. Features fresh food vendors, artisan crafts, and an outdoor flea market on weekends.
  • Union Market (Northeast D.C.): An indoor food hall that also hosts artisan vendors, specialty food shops, and unique boutiques. It a modern market experience.
  • Artisan Workshops and Crafts: Explore small boutiques and galleries in districts like Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and Capitol Hill for local artisan crafts, unique jewelry, and bespoke items.
  • Unique Souvenirs: Look for uniqueive items reflecting D.C.'s culture.

Souvenirs & Luxury Shopping

Souvenir Recommendations

Museum Gift Shops: Smithsonian museums have excellent, curated gift shops offering high-quality, educational, and unique souvenirs related to their collections.

Street Vendors

Find numerous "D.C." themed merchandise from street vendors near the National Mall, offering classic souvenirs like t-shirts, keychains, and miniature monuments.

Luxury and Boutique Shopping

Georgetown's M Street and Wisconsin Avenue are renowned for upscale boutiques, national brands, and designer stores. CityCenterDC features high-end luxury retailers like Louis Vuitton and Gucci.

Eastern Market Finds

  • Fresh produce and baked goods.
  • Local artisan crafts.
  • Antiques and collectibles on weekends.
  • A lively community atmosphere.

Ethical Shopping

  • Seek out "Made in USA" products.
  • Purchase from local artisans.
  • Search for fair trade certifications.
  • Support local businesses directly.

Shipping & Customs

  • Inquire about shipping services at the store.
  • International visitors should check home country customs regulations.
  • Retain all receipts for customs declarations.
  • The United States does not offer VAT refunds.

Shopping Districts Overview

Georgetown's M Street
  • Renowned for upscale boutiques.
  • National manufacturers and designer stores.
  • A prime destination for luxury shopping.
CityCenterDC
  • Modern, open-air shopping district.
  • Features high-end luxury retailers like Hermes.
  • Located in downtown D.C. For a sophisticated experience.

Shopping Tip

Allow extra time for browsing the varied offerings at D.C.'s markets and boutiques; you might uncover an unique find.

Activity Planning Summary

Outdoor & Active Choices

  • Explore Rock Creek Park's trails for an ecological escape.
  • Cycle the C&O Canal Towpath or Mount Vernon Trail.
  • Enjoy kayaking on the Potomac River for unique city views.
  • Find relaxation at luxury hotel spas or local yoga studios.

Cultural & Evening Experiences

  • Attend a show at the Kennedy Center or Ford's Theatre.
  • Discover live music in U Street or jazz at Blues Alley.
  • Explore bar districts in Dupont Circle or Shaw.
  • Shop for unique souvenirs at Eastern Bazaar or high-end fashion in Georgetown.