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Washington DC Attractions: Things to do in Washington DC

Things to do in Washington DC

 

Attractions (228)

Activities (90)

Nightlife (55)

Shopping (23)

All (228)
Cultural (69)
Museums (60)
Landmarks (37)
Outdoors (27)
Performances (20)
Sports (8)
Amusement (4)
Zoos & Aquariums (2)
Name

Attractions travellers recommend

National Gallery of Art
National Gallery of Art
Book
Ranked #1 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
5 of 5 stars 1,446 reviews
Category: Art Museums
Owner description: One of the world's greatest art museums is comprised of two buildings: one holds paintings from the 13th through the 18th... more » Owner description: One of the world's greatest art museums is comprised of two buildings: one holds paintings from the 13th through the 18th centuries and the other exhibits modern art. « less
Map | Visitor photos (252)
Smithsonian Institution Building
As featured in Washington DC on a budget
Smithsonian Institution Building
Book
Ranked #2 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 2,005 reviews
Category: Museums; Zoos
Owner description: The world's largest museum and research complex is actually comprised of 15 specialty museums, and other affiliates, with... more » Owner description: The world's largest museum and research complex is actually comprised of 15 specialty museums, and other affiliates, with subjects that vary from African Art to the postal service, sculpture to space exploration. « less
Map | Visitor photos (277)
Newseum
Newseum
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Ranked #3 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,992 reviews
Category: Speciality Museums; History Museums
Owner description: The Newseum — a 250,000-square-foot museum of news — offers visitors an experience that blends five centuries of news history... more » Owner description: The Newseum — a 250,000-square-foot museum of news — offers visitors an experience that blends five centuries of news history with up-to-the-second technology and hands-on exhibits. The Newseum is located on America’s Main Street between the White House and the U.S. Capitol and adjacent to the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall. The Newseum features seven levels of galleries, theaters, retail spaces and visitor services. It offers a unique environment that takes museum-goers behind the scenes to experience how and why news is made. « less
Map | Visitor photos (327)
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Book
Ranked #4 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,627 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues

The Vietnam Memorial Wall is a must-see, where touching photos, letters and flowers have been left in rememberence of a daddy someone never knew or son that never came home... more »

Map | Visitor photos (321)
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Korean War Veterans Memorial
Book
Ranked #5 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,441 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues
Owner description: This memorial to Korean War veterans consists of the Pool of Remembrance and the triangular Field of Service depicting 19... more » Owner description: This memorial to Korean War veterans consists of the Pool of Remembrance and the triangular Field of Service depicting 19 soldiers on the field of combat. « less
Map | Visitor photos (355)
Hillwood Museum & Gardens
As featured in Washington DC off the beaten path
Hillwood Museum & Gardens
Ranked #6 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
5 of 5 stars 290 reviews
Category: Art Museums; Gardens; Historic Sites
Owner description: Hillwood, the grand estate of Post Cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, sits on 25 acres overlooking Rock Creek Park in... more » Owner description: Hillwood, the grand estate of Post Cereal heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post, sits on 25 acres overlooking Rock Creek Park in northwest Washington DC. Along with a world renowned collection of Russian and French decorative arts, Hillwood also features extensive gardens and special exhibitions. « less
Map | Visitor photos (141)
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Ranked #7 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 288 reviews
Category: Religious Sites; Churches/ Cathedrals

The Shrine is a favorite spot to visit in DC. The awesome "Christ Pantocreator" mosaic on the inside dome alone makes it worth a visit. The many smaller side chapels from other... more »

Map | Visitor photos (119)
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
Book
Ranked #8 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,091 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues
Owner description: This outdoor memorial is the most popular of presidential memorials, in large part because of its elegant design, which... more » Owner description: This outdoor memorial is the most popular of presidential memorials, in large part because of its elegant design, which includes waterfalls and sculptures. « less
Map | Visitor photos (198)
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Book
Ranked #9 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,646 reviews
Category: History Museums; Speciality Museums
A memorial and museum detailing the rise of Hitler's Germany and the horrors of World War II.
Map | Visitor photos (75)
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool
Lincoln Memorial and Reflecting Pool
Book
Ranked #10 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 2,834 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues
Owner description: The majesty of Daniel Chester French's 19-foot high statue of Lincoln is complemented by Jules Guernin's 60-foot high murals... more » Owner description: The majesty of Daniel Chester French's 19-foot high statue of Lincoln is complemented by Jules Guernin's 60-foot high murals depicting the Angel of Truth on one side and Fraternity and Charity on another. « less
Map | Visitor photos (1179)
Library of Congress
Library of Congress
Book
Ranked #11 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,262 reviews
Category: Libraries; Government Buildings; History Museums
Owner description: Though the Library of Congress doesn't own every book ever published, it sure has most of them, with 532 miles of shelves and... more » Owner description: Though the Library of Congress doesn't own every book ever published, it sure has most of them, with 532 miles of shelves and 115 million items, with 7,000 added each working day. « less
Map | Visitor photos (306)
Washington National Cathedral
Washington National Cathedral
Book
Ranked #12 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 684 reviews
Category: Religious Sites; Architectural Buildings; Churches/ Cathedrals
Owner description: This Gothic-style cathedral is the sixth largest in the world and is put to all sorts of national purposes, such as President... more » Owner description: This Gothic-style cathedral is the sixth largest in the world and is put to all sorts of national purposes, such as President Wilsons funeral and a prayer vigil for American hostages during the Iranian crisis. « less
Map | Visitor photos (256)
Jefferson Memorial
Jefferson Memorial
Book
Ranked #13 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,052 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues
Owner description: A 19-foot bronze statue of perhaps the most esteemed founding father sits beneath a columned rotunda in the style of the... more » Owner description: A 19-foot bronze statue of perhaps the most esteemed founding father sits beneath a columned rotunda in the style of the Roman Pantheon. « less
Map | Visitor photos (318)
National Portrait Gallery
National Portrait Gallery
Book
Ranked #14 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 622 reviews
Category: Art Museums; History Museums

The National Portrait Gallery and the Smithsonian American Art Museum share space in a National Historic Landmark building in Washington DC The National Portrait Gallery is the... more »

Map | Visitor photos (70)
National Air and Space Museum
As featured in Washington DC for young kids
National Air and Space Museum
Book
Ranked #15 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 2,593 reviews
Category: Science Museums; Speciality Museums; History Museums; Museums
The most popular of the Smithsonian museums features the Wright Brothers' 1903 Flyer and Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis.
Map | Visitor photos (763)
The Phillips Collection
The Phillips Collection
Book
Ranked #16 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 261 reviews
Category: Art Museums
Owner description: "Americas First Museum of American Art" boasts a collection of over 2,500 19th and 20th-century masters, both American and... more » Owner description: "Americas First Museum of American Art" boasts a collection of over 2,500 19th and 20th-century masters, both American and European, including Renoir, Picasso, Gauguin, Manet, OKeefe and more. « less
Map | Visitor photos (24)
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
As featured in Washington DC for young kids
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Book
Ranked #17 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,611 reviews
Category: Natural History Museums
Owner description: Established in 1910 and located on the National Mall, this prestigious museum, part of the Smithsonian Institution, holds the... more » Owner description: Established in 1910 and located on the National Mall, this prestigious museum, part of the Smithsonian Institution, holds the world's most extensive collection of natural history specimens and human artifacts including the remains of dinosaurs and tools used by early man. « less
Map | Visitor photos (704)
National World War II Memorial
National World War II Memorial
Book
Ranked #18 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 990 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues
Map | Visitor photos (368)
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Ranked #19 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 432 reviews
Category: Theatres
Map | Visitor photos (25)
Ford's Theatre
Ford's Theatre
Book
Ranked #20 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 741 reviews
Category: Historic Sites; Theatres; History Museums
Owner description: The site of the April 14, 1865, assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, Ford's Theatre is a working theatre, historical... more » Owner description: The site of the April 14, 1865, assassination of President Abraham Lincoln, Ford's Theatre is a working theatre, historical monument, world-class museum and learning center. The theatre produces musicals and plays reflecting the unique, diverse character of American life. With its inspiring theatrical productions, live historic interpretation, and rich collection of artifacts, Ford’s Theatre is the premier destination in the nation’s capital to explore and celebrate the life and legacy of Abraham Lincoln. A daytime visit to the Ford’s campus traces the story of Lincoln’s presidency, assassination and legacy. The campus includes the museum, theatre, Petersen House (the house where Lincoln died) and the new Center for Education and Leadership. Tickets are required. Admission is free; advance tickets have a convenience fee.In the evenings and on weekends, Ford’s presents dynamic productions of renowned plays, vibrant musicals, and newly commissioned works that captivate and entertain while examining political and social issues related to Lincoln’s legacy.In the spring and summer, Ford’s produces one-act plays and walking tours exploring Civil War Washington. These immersive experiences provide an authentic glimpse into a singular and transformative moment of America’s past.Throughout the year, Ford’s provides engaging educational programs for students, teachers and life-long learners, using Lincoln’s speeches and legacy to build speech, writing and leadership skills. « less
Map | Visitor photos (189)
Tidal Basin
Tidal Basin
Ranked #21 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 185 reviews
Category: Bodies of Water
Springtime in Washington means the explosion of white-pink clouds of cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin.
Map | Visitor photos (75)
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
Book
Ranked #22 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 248 reviews
Category: Art Museums
Map | Visitor photos (65)
Freer and Sackler Gallery
Freer and Sackler Gallery
Ranked #23 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 140 reviews
Category: Art Museums
Owner description: The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the neighboring Freer Gallery of Art form the national museum of Asian art for the United... more » Owner description: The Arthur M. Sackler Gallery and the neighboring Freer Gallery of Art form the national museum of Asian art for the United States. As part of the Smithsonian Institution, the galleries are dedicated to advancing public knowledge about the arts and cultures of Asia through exhibitions, publications, research and education. The Sackler Gallery, located at 1050 Independence Avenue S.W., on the National Mall in Washington, is open every day except Dec. 25., from 10 a.m. until 5:30 p.m., and admission is free. « less
Map | Visitor photos (43)
United States Botanic Garden
As featured in Washington DC off the beaten path
United States Botanic Garden
Book
Ranked #24 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 363 reviews
Category: Gardens; Fountains
Owner description: A truly green spectacle, with a jungle, a National Garden with a First Ladies water garden, a rose garden and exhibits on... more » Owner description: A truly green spectacle, with a jungle, a National Garden with a First Ladies water garden, a rose garden and exhibits on ecology and evolutionary biology. « less
Map | Visitor photos (188)
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial
Ranked #25 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 1,051 reviews
Category: Monuments/ Statues
Map | Visitor photos (241)
U.S. National Arboretum
U.S. National Arboretum
Ranked #26 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 145 reviews
Category: Gardens; Nature/ Wildlife Areas; Hiking Trails
Owner description: Established in 1927 by an Act of the United States Congress, this national treasure contains 446 acres of fabulous flora and... more » Owner description: Established in 1927 by an Act of the United States Congress, this national treasure contains 446 acres of fabulous flora and fauna and is especially known for its Asian, azalea and conifer collections. « less
Map | Visitor photos (63)
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill
Book
Ranked #27 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 431 reviews
Category: Scenic/ Historic Walking Areas; Landmarks/ Points of Interest; Government Buildings
At the east end of The Mall, the Hill is home to the U.S. Capitol.
Map | Visitor photos (218)
Dumbarton Oaks
Dumbarton Oaks
Ranked #28 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 68 reviews
Category: Gardens; History Museums; Art Museums; Historic Sites; Libraries
Owner description: Dumbarton Oaks is an institute of Harvard University dedicated to supporting scholarship internationally in Byzantine, Garden... more » Owner description: Dumbarton Oaks is an institute of Harvard University dedicated to supporting scholarship internationally in Byzantine, Garden and Landscape, and Pre-Columbian studies through fellowships, meetings, exhibitions, and publications. It opens its doors to the public to visit its historic Gardens, designed by Beatrix Farrand; its Museum, with world-class collections of art; and its Music Room, for lectures and concerts. « less
Map | Visitor photos (42)
National Mall (The Mall)
As featured in Washington DC on a budget
National Mall (The Mall)
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Ranked #29 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 372 reviews
Category: Scenic/ Historic Walking Areas; Parks; Landmarks/ Points of Interest
Owner description: Open area of gardens, fountains, trees and monuments stretching nearly two miles between the Capitol and the Lincoln... more » Owner description: Open area of gardens, fountains, trees and monuments stretching nearly two miles between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial. « less
Map | Visitor photos (282)
U.S. Capitol
U.S. Capitol
Book
Ranked #30 of 228 attractions in Washington DC
4.5 of 5 stars 663 reviews
Category: Government Buildings; Architectural Buildings
Owner description: The Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. The Senate and... more » Owner description: The Capitol is among the most architecturally impressive and symbolically important buildings in the world. The Senate and the House of Representatives have met here for more than two centuries. Begun in 1793, the Capitol has been built, burnt, rebuilt, extended, and restored; today, it stands as a monument not only to its builders but also to the American people and their government. « less
Map | Visitor photos (592)
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