People are often surprised by what they find in Washington, D.C. While the first impression of the city is that it is largely made up of monuments, museums, and federal buildings, the reality is that Washington, D.C., has a vibrant outdoor recreation scene, rich cultural experiences, plenty of sports to participate in and watch, extreme adventure opportunities, off-the-radar nightlife, and peaceful places to be outdoors—all within the same city. Many beautiful and iconic locations in Washington, D.C., have been featured in some of the biggest Hollywood movies, including Spider-Man.
Whether it’s skating on the National Mall, kayaking along the Potomac River, skydiving with amazing views of the Washington Monument, or listening to live music while cycling past illuminated monuments at night, there are so many things to do in Washington, D.C., that have a vibrant and social energy while holding lasting memories. In other words, this guide completes the circle of experiences that make Washington, D.C., so unique—not only does it provide details about where and what to do while visiting, but it also ultimately helps promote a positive experience for all visitors by offering insight into true local enjoyment.
Take a Free DC Walking Tour
Location: Downtown DC, National Mall, Capitol Hill
Price: Free (tips encouraged)
Taking a free walk around Washington, D.C. is an excellent thing to do in Washington. A guided walk allows you to experience the history of this city through stories, comedy, and interesting bits of trivia that are not found on markers. You are able to meet new people while on a guided walk through places like The National Mall, Capitol Hill, or one of the many Historical Districts in the city, and learn many things that you will not see when you are just walking around by yourself.
The guided walks are specifically designed for people who want things to do in Washington, D.C. for the first time and will allow you to have a unique experience. You will also get to see several locations where movies were filmed, including locations that were created based on scenes from Spider-Man’s Urban Environs.
Visit the New People’s House
Location: Near the White House
Price: Free (timed entry required)
Discovering The People’s House is one of the best things to do in Washington, allowing you to learn about the history of the White House and those who have served there, through exhibits that are interactive, multi-dimensional, and come with stories to tell. You will gain a better understanding of American Presidents and how they influence the civic lives of others.
The way these exhibits create a modern-day experience is engaging for today’s museum-goers who expect more than just static displays. The way this type of experience is presented may remind you of the way in which major political landmarks (and superheroes) are portrayed within the context of blockbuster movies that occur in Washington, D.C.
Visit the White House
Location: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW
Price: Free (advance request required)
Visiting the White House is a memory that stays with travelers. Because tours must be scheduled in advance, just seeing the White House from the exterior is an unforgettable experience. The White House has been a backdrop for many films, where Washington, D.C., is the epicenter of global chaos.
On these streets, we can experience surrealism as if we were walking through the film set of an epic tale of drama and glamour, and you really enjoy these things to do in Washington.
Take a Monuments by Night Cycle Tour
Location: National Mall
Price: $45–$70
Cycling in Washington, DC, at night is a unique experience. Riding past the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument while they are illuminated against the night sky creates an emotional and cinematic experience.
With night cycling tours, visitors will see traditional sightseeing spots in a completely different style of activity. The backdrop of these locations in many major motion pictures gives cyclists the impression that they are literally inside the movie; in fact, fans of Spider-Man value this feeling very highly.
Favorite Smithsonian Museums
Location: National Mall
Price: Free
The Smithsonian museums are more than educational—they are interactive, immersive, and endlessly fascinating.
From towering dinosaur skeletons to glowing gemstones, this museum feels alive. Visitors of all ages find themselves captivated by the scale and storytelling.
National Gallery of Art
Location: Constitution Avenue NW
Price: Free
Art lovers appreciate the peaceful galleries, iconic paintings, and sculpture gardens. The space feels cinematic, often used as inspiration for films and high-end productions.
In addition to being one of the Smithsonian Museums, the National Gallery of Art is a standout museum that deserves its own attention and recognition. The spectacular building has a cinematic feel that many will identify with films or dramatic television episodes.
National Portrait Gallery
Location: Penn Quarter
Price: Free
Art and personality intertwine in this museum; it showcases the personalities behind leaders, cultural icons, and even today’s leaders. Among DC museums, this museum tends to evoke strong emotional responses.
As a collective unit the two museums provide a free “world class” visit where a visitor feels more as though they are experiencing a history museum, rather than the typical history museum experience.
This gallery connects history with human emotion. Portraits feel alive, making it one of the most relatable museums in DC.
International Spy Museum
Location: L’Enfant Plaza
Price: $25–$30
The International Spy Museum is fun, interactive, and surprisingly intense. Guests will try their hand at a variety of spy skills, decode messages, and learn about real-world espionage stories. It feels like you are in a spy movie, and it makes many people think of the heroic and clever intelligence agencies depicted in movies made by Marvel.
Ford’s Theatre
Location: 511 10th St NW
Price: $3–$75
Ford’s Theatre blends history with live performance. Watching a show here feels intimate and powerful, while the historical significance adds emotional depth.
Arlington National Cemetery
Location: Arlington, VA
Price: Free
Arlington National Cemetery offers a deeply reflective experience. The Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is one of the most moving things to do in Washington DC.
Rock Creek Park – Nature Escape Inside the City
Location: Northwest DC
Price: Free
Want to go hiking so there are places where you can make the best. Things to do in Washington, Rock Creek Park feels like a complete escape from the city. Trails, streams, and quiet paths create a peaceful contrast to DC’s urban core. It’s perfect for hiking, jogging, cycling, or simply disconnecting.
Skating, Rollerblading & Fun Outdoor Activities
Location: National Mall, Waterfront Areas
Price: Free–$15
Skating and rollerblading along DC’s wide paths is both fun and social. Locals and visitors glide past monuments, rivers, and parks, creating an energetic atmosphere that is most famous things to do in Washington.
Bike Trails & Riversides
Location: Capital Crescent Trail, Anacostia Riverwalk
Price: Free (bike rentals $20–$40)
The Memorable Things to do in Washington DC’s bike trails are scenic and relaxing, offering river views and green spaces. Cycling here feels natural and stress-free.
Paddleboarding & Kayaking in the Potomac River
Location: Georgetown Waterfront, Key Bridge
Price: $25–$40
Paddleboarding and kayaking give visitors a new view of the city. Floating past monuments and bridges creates a calm, cinematic experience—especially at sunset. You have to know about these things to do in Washington.
Take a Paddle Boat in Tidal Basin
Location: Tidal Basin
Price: $20–$30
Pedal boats at the Tidal Basin are simple, joyful fun things to do in Washington. This becomes one of the most beautiful activities in DC.
See the Spring Cherry Blossoms
Location: Tidal Basin
Price: Free
Cherry blossom season is the best time to visit DC in a pink-and-white dreamscape. Walking, cycling, or boating during this time feels magical—and frequently appears in film and photography, is the things to do in Washington DC.
Skydiving Near Washington DC
Location: Virginia & Maryland Skydiving Centers
Price: $200–$300
For adrenaline lovers, skydiving is the awesome things to do in Washington, DC offers unforgettable thrills. Jumping with views of rivers and countryside creates a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Indoor Rock Climbing
Location: Various climbing gyms
Price: $25–$40
Indoor rock climbing is the best things to do in Washington, DC is popular with locals and travelers alike. It’s active, social, and rewarding.
Live Music & Night Concerts
Location: The Anthem, 9:30 Club
Price: $20–$100
DC’s live music scene is vibrant and diverse. These are the most famous things to do in Washington for visiting. From indie bands to major tours, nights here are full of energy.
Theatre & Performing Arts
Location: Kennedy Center, Local Theatres
Price: $25–$150
DC’s performing arts scene offers Broadway-level productions, ballet, opera, and live performances in stunning venues. You had to know about these things to do in Washington.
Famous Sports in DC – Ice Hockey & More
Location: Capital One Arena
Price: $30–$150
Explore The Best Things to do in Washington DC’s ice hockey team, the Capitals, offers electric game-day energy. Sports events here feel lively and social, even for casual fans.
Food Experiences You Should Not Miss
Location: Across DC
Price: $15–$50+
DC’s food scene is global and exciting. From food trucks to fine dining, flavors from around the world come together with family and friends to do Things to do in Washington.
DC as a Filming Location – Spider-Man & Beyond
Washington, D.C. has previously been depicted in many blockbuster movies with scenes inspired by Spiderman; with monuments, museums, and government buildings often providing dramatic settings for the story, thus making it seem very ‘cinematic’ in real life. Whether walking down these relatively small streets or biking past the various monuments, or paddling on the Potomac River, also gives the impression of being in a scene from a movie.
Why Washington DC Is More Exciting Than You Think
The combination of history, adventure, nature, culture, sports, and cinema is a unique things to do in Washington, D.C. The sheer variety available within this incredible city creates exciting experiences that will remain with you forever. Activities like skating, paddling on the Potomac River, visiting museums, and seeing where your favourite movies were filmed add to this energetic and vibrant environment where everyone can find something to enjoy.
Your Thoughts on The Best Things to do in Washington, DC
Washington, D.C., is much more than a tourist destination; it is an exciting city that allows you to experience all that life has to offer! Whether you want heart-pounding excitement, a serene escape into nature, or an opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture of the area, Washington, D.C. has it all. This travel guide features the top attractions and experiences specifically created for real, everyday people who want to discover new places to explore and enjoy!
There are many things to do in Washington D.C., from skating along the monument-lined paths of the Mall to kayaking in the Potomac River. Or, if you prefer to experience history in an indoor setting, we have many famous museums and places appearing in movies that also provide meaningful elements to your trip. That’s why it’s a good idea to check out our comprehensive guides containing things to do outdoors, activities during the seasonal changes, like celebrating cherry blossoms, as well as places that the locals recommend visiting when you are in town.
Another way to keep up to date about when to take a tour or what types of events are taking place when you’re here would be to look at official sources for the city of Washington, D.C., as well as one of the many trusted third-party travel websites offering similar information, Explore More. You are guaranteed to have an exciting, enjoyable, and memorable trip to Washington, D.C. by using both local knowledge and reputable outside resources to assist you in your travel planning for Go to Washington DC.
