Looking for things to do during a weekend trip to DC? These are some of the most recommended places to visit and things to do in the beautiful US capitol.
Planning a trip to Washington DC is super exciting! If you’re anything like me, you’re here because you love to research and plan your trip ahead of time. Now that I have visited DC more than a few times, I am excited to share what I’ve learned when it comes to which museums to visit, sights to see, tours to do, and restaurants to enjoy.
You are going to learn about places to visit like unforgettable Smithsonian (and non-Smithsonian) museums, landmark sights like the National Mall and White House, which fun tours to participate in, and where to eat delicious meals. After learning about these places, you are going to be ready for your next Washington DC travel adventure!
This post is all about 27 Unforgettable Things to Do During a Weekend Trip to DC.
Best Museums
1. National Museum of African American History and Culture
One of the most well curated museums in the country, the National Museum of African American History and Culture is my most recommended museum to visit in Washington DC. I recommend starting in the lower level and working your way up through the museum. Although I only spent a few hours here, this museum can easily take a whole day to explore. Consider dining in the Sweet Home Café where you can try barbecue and authentic agricultural southern foods.
2. National Museum of the American Indian
The National Museum of the American Indian provides many exhibits showcasing Native American history, artwork, culture, and societal representation. I especially enjoyed learning the true history of Pocahontas. The gift shop is not to be missed! There are many great artworks, pottery, and treasures for sale to take home as unique and beautiful souvenirs. The Mitsitam Cafe offers a variety of traditional Native American dishes you can’t find anywhere else.
3. International Spy Museum
Interested in being a spy for a few hours? This interactive museum was so much fun! Explore the history of spies and learn about all the ways different countries use spies and espionage to gain information, what tools they use, and so much more. At the start of the exhibit, you will be assigned a role that you can then use throughout the museum at interactive displays. It is a great museum for families and kids of all ages. Note that this is not a Smithsonian museum and admission fee is required.
4. The People’s House: A White House Experience
If you’re interested in learning more about the White House but cannot get tickets for a tour, consider checking out The People’s House: A White House Experience. This interactive and unique museum can be found on the corner of Pennsylvania Ave and 17th St. With admission by donation only, it is an affordable way to learn more about the White House and its history. It has many exact replica rooms that are interactive and you are encouraged to take photos! I enjoyed the formal dining hall and participating in pop quizzes in the theater room. Another great family-friendly experience.
5. National Air and Space Museum
The National Air and Space Museum offers an incredible collection of artifacts worth seeing in person. Amelia Earhart’s Lockheed Vega 5B, The Wright Flyer, Apollo 11 Command Module, and Space Shuttle Discovery are just some of the history you can explore here. Within the museum you will find a planetarium, IMAX theater, and volunteer docents to provide guided highlights tours. There are plenty of things to do and see that will keep you busy for a whole day (or more)!
6. National Museum of American History
Another Smithsonian museum worth visiting is the National Museum of American History. Located on the National Mall, it offers a robust collection of artifacts and exhibits that explore our country’s history and memorable historical moments. I enjoy this museum because of the wide variety of exhibits it offers (1.7 million to be exact).
7. National Portrait Gallery
A great museum where art and history come together. This museum offers a variety of portraits from paintings and drawings to photographs representing historical moments and iconic people. I highly recommend signing up for a docent tour to learn more about some of the most memorable artifacts within the museum.
8. O Museum in the Mansion
A museum that was highly recommended to me by a local, O Museum in the Mansion is an immersive experience with over 80 secret doors. Each room focuses on a historical person or event and many of the items within each room are interactive. I haven’t yet checked this place out, but it is high on my wishlist of museums to visit in DC.
9. Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
I love exploring historical houses when I visit a new city. If you’re like me, please visit the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. Located in the neighborhood of Anacostia, it is a bit farther from the city center. You must sign up for a scheduled tour time in order to go through the house.
Best Sights to See
10. The National Mall
The National Mall is a must-see landmark! Even if you are planning a day trip to DC, I highly recommend including the National Mall in your itinerary. There are several ways to tour through the 2 miles of monuments by bike, segway, electric trolley, walking, or driving. I highly recommend signing up for a guided tour because there’s so much to get through within the National Mall, it can be overwhelming. If you are on a budget and driving, consider downloading an audio tour guide.
11. The White House
Walk down Pennsylvania Ave and stop in front of The White House! If you are not able to register for a guided tour of the White House, consider going to The People’s House museum mentioned above.
12. Arlington National Cemetery
The Arlington National Cemetery is worth visiting if you have a bit more time, like 3 days in Washington DC. I recommend purchasing tram tickets and using the tram to get around. It will stop near notable graves including President John F. Kennedy, President William Howard Taft, Thurgood Marshall, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. I suggest watching the changing of the guard in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
13. The U.S. Capitol
The U.S. Capitol, or Capitol Building offers many specialty tours and featured programs. There are also many activities geared towards kids, making it a family-friendly visit.
14. Georgetown Neighborhood
Georgetown is a cute neighborhood within DC with plenty of shopping and dining experiences. The side streets offer a quaint retreat for walks with beautiful homes to admire. It’s a fun neighborhood worth visiting! You’ll have to walk or drive to this area, as there are no metro stops in Georgetown.
15. Smithsonian National Zoo
Another great place to visit if you’re planning a weekend trip to DC with kids. How many zoos in the US have pandas? Just one! And it’s the National Zoo in Washington DC. Other notable animals to see include lions, elephants, gorillas, red pandas, black-footed ferrets, as well as a children’s animal farm.
16. Ford’s Theater
If you are into the history and legacy of President Lincoln, I highly recommend visiting this museum. The theater is an exact replica of the original, and includes a small museum in the lower level. There is also access to The Peterson Boarding House across the street which is where President Lincoln was made comfortable after he was shot. If you are interested, check out the tour below which includes admission to this museum.
17. Union Market
Union Market is an indoor space offering several food and shopping stalls. This is a great place to visit if you are traveling with a group! Each person can choose where to eat and what to explore.
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Best Tours
18. Lincoln Assassination Tour
This is by far one of the best tours I’ve ever done! The tour is offered through Unscripted but can also be purchased through Viator. The tour takes you along the footsteps of John Wilkes Booth stopping in front of the Surrett Boarding House and stops inside Ford’s Theater and the Peterson Boarding House. You’ll learn about the details leading up to Lincoln’s assassination and what happened afterward. A very informative and engaging tour!
19. National Mall
As I mentioned above, if you plan to visit many of the monuments within the National Mall, consider going on a tour to help navigate throughout the mall while learning historical details.
20. Ghost Tour
One of my favorite types of tours when visiting a historical city is a ghost tour! These tours offer a unique opportunity to learn about the history of certain buildings and what events may have occurred that contribute to possible hauntings. A fun way to see Washington DC at night!
21. Georgetown Food Tour
If you are a foodie, food tours are a great way to try a variety of restaurants within a neighborhood of a city. Georgetown is a cute area filled with unique bars and restaurants. Consider taking a food tour to explore what this neighborhood has to offer.
Best Restaurants
22. Maydan
One of the most highly recommended restaurants, Maydan was absolutely incredible. The cuisine includes tastes from the Middle East, North Africa, and the Caucasus regions. I recommend trying their tawle menu to make the most of your experience. Everything we ate was delicious, especially the muhammara, mouneh, sayadieh, and lamb shoulder. You will want to book a reservation in advance for your best chance of dining here!
23. Rasika
A modern style Indian restaurant, I thoroughly enjoyed the dishes here. We did not have a reservation, but were able to get seating at the bar.
24. Cranes
If you’re looking for something unique, visit Cranes! It is a Spanish and Japanese fusion restaurant with incredible dishes you won’t find anywhere else.
25. Filomena
A popular Italian restaurant that has been around for over 40 years, Filomena is a great option if you enjoy eating family style. The portions are large and great for sharing. I loved that on the menu you could see what past President’s have ordered!
26. Supra
If you’re interested in trying Georgian cuisine, check out Supra! I love going to restaurants that have food I can’t get in my hometown of Grand Rapids. Supra has a full Georgian menu including khinkali and khachapuri.
27. Tatte’s Bakery & Cafe
For something a little more laid-back and sweet, you must visit Tatte’s Bakery & Cafe. They serve delicious coffee and tea drinks, as well as beautiful pastries and desserts. They also offer a small menu of soups, salads, and sandwiches.
This post is all about 27 Unforgettable Things to Do During a Weekend Trip to DC which includes ideas for which museums, restaurants, and tours to visit.
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