Are you looking for your next travel destination? If you are, consider making a trip to Washington D.C.
As the nation’s capital, D.C. has so much to offer both visitors and residents. From blooming cherry blossoms in the spring to centuries worth of culture and history all year round, there’s something for everyone in the District of Columbia.
However, as there are many things to do in Washington D.C., creating a travel plan can be difficult. We put together this guide to do the dirty work for you and make your life a bit easier.
Read on to learn more about what you can see and do in the U.S. capital.
Explore the Monuments
Of course, no trip to D.C. is complete without taking time to explore the many monuments. Regardless of whether you’re a history buff, the scale of these sites is enough to impress anyone.
The Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are some of the most famous monuments in the city. That said, D.C. has over 160, so spend some time researching all of them to decide if they’re worth a visit.
While everyone can enjoy the historical monuments of D.C., they’re especially great for people who love history, architecture, and scenic vistas.
See the Many Government Buildings
While appreciating the past is always great, you can also learn about the present. As the nation’s capital, D.C. also showcases many buildings that the American government uses to run the country.
From the U.S. Capitol to the White House, many of these buildings are just as iconic as the monuments of the past. If you’re into politics (or just want to know where your taxpayer dollars go), consider paying them a visit.
Who knows—you might even run into a politician you’ve seen on the news before!
Stop By Some of the National Museums
D.C. has one of the largest collections of museums in the country. Many of these are national and famous for being top-tier.
For example, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum features an Einstein Planetarium and Amelia Earhart’s Lockheed Vega 5B. Likewise, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History has a massive insect house, dozens of dinosaur skeletons, and so much more.
Remember that these museums can get quite busy, especially on weekends and during the summer. Try to visit on a weekday, or if possible, the off-season. You’ll beat the crowds and get to enjoy lower prices!
Explore U Street
Looking for some fun things to do in D.C. for adults? If you are, look no further than U Street.
Located in the heart of D.C., U Street has some of the best music and nightlife in the country. With live bands, exquisite restaurants and bars, and earth-shattering clubs, U Street is the perfect place to explore if you’ve left the kids at home.
Many visitors who explore U Street end up falling in love with it. If you’re that type of person, consider becoming a full-time resident of D.C. Check out these condos if you’re thinking about making the move!
Walk Around Arlington National Cemetary
If you’re looking for a break from the hustle and bustle and want to visit a more somber place, make a trip to Arlington National Cemetary.
Located just across the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetary stretches for nearly a mile. It houses the graves of over 400,000 veterans, service members, and their families. If you know someone buried there, see if you can find their grave.
In addition to the cemetery, the site also contains the Memorial Amphitheater and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Both of these areas will further open your eyes to what the U.S. service members have gone through.
See Pandas at the Zoo
If you’re a fan of animals (and especially rare animals), making a trip to Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute is a must.
The zoo houses more than 2,700 animals across a massive 163 acres. From giant apes to sea lions and lumbering elephants, you can rest assured that everyone will get to see their favorite animal.
In 2015, the zoo even announced the birth of a Giant Panda named BeiBei. Although the U.S. has since sent him to China, you can still see his family, as well as dozens of other rare and endangered animals.
Learn More About African American History and Culture
D.C. is an epicenter for Black culture and history. If you’re looking to learn more about it, there’s no shortage of things to do.
Consider visiting the Frederick Douglas National Historic Site, the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, and many of the other sites that exist to honor African American history. All of them can help you learn more about Black history.
Regardless of your ethnicity, it’s never a bad idea to familiarize yourself with the struggles Black people have faced in the United States since its conception.
Don’t Miss the Top Things to Do in Washington D.C.
Whether you plan on visiting the capital for a weekend or are moving there permanently, there’s no shortage of things to do in Washington D.C. To make the most of your time there, make sure to do some research beforehand.
Use this guide to help make your D.C. experience as memorable as possible. Consider doing some of the activities and visiting some of the places mentioned. All of them are sure to be a blast!
Are you looking to learn more about D.C. and other destinations? If you are, make sure to check out the rest of our site for more great content.
