35 unmissable things to do in Washington, D.C.

From the White House to Georgetown, the Lincoln Memorial to Lafayette Square, the nation’s capital is simply bursting with iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Some say it would take a lifetime to explore the countless sides of Washington, D.C. Surprisingly, though, it’s possible to see the best of it in a single, fun-filled day.

With a bit of planning and the right transportation, you’ll find it a breeze to enjoy the abundant history and fascinating culture that makes this city so unique. Ready to go? Read on for our comprehensive guide of things to do in Washington, D.C., in a day!

The top 35 things to do in Washington, D.C.

It doesn’t matter who you decide to travel with – the list of fun things to do in Washington, D.C. goes on and on. With a rental van that fits the whole crew, getting from one landmark to the other won’t feel like a monumental task. 

Here’s a list of our 35 top things to do in Washington, D.C. broken down into seven easy-to-follow categories.

Family–friendly activities

Families will be pleasantly surprised by the amount of things to do in Washington, D.C., with kids. It’s a great destination for children of all ages and interests. Get out your virtual map and pin the following family-friendly activities. 

National Zoo:

One of the top things to do in Washington, D.C. with kids is taking a spin through the National Zoo. Admire the thousands of animal species that live in exhibits replicating their natural habitats including leopards, monkeys, and the exotic Komodo dragon. While you’re here, check out an exciting behind-the-scenes tour and a keeper talk or two. The best part – it’s completely free to enter!

The zoo is huge and there’s a lot to see. Spend a relaxed day here with a van rental, giving you a comfortable place to take a midday rest or meet for a picnic lunch.

United States Botanic Garden: 

Is the desert calling? Or maybe the rainforest? When the concrete jungle starts to make you crave the great outdoors, there’s one place to go: the U.S. Botanic Garden. Only here, in the middle of the city, can you take in the light fragrance of a vibrant fruit tree orchard and a colorful rose garden. Once you’ve had enough of the outside gardens, take a look inside the spectacular glass-encased Conservatory, exploding with thriving flora.

Tidal Basin Paddle Boats:

A visit to D.C. often requires a lot of walking. If you need to give your feet a break but don’t want the adventure to end, hop into a paddle boat and sail around the Tidal Basin. It’s a fun way to soak up the summer sun while getting a little exercise. 

The real draw is how many landmarks you’ll see from the watery vantage point – the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial are all accessible by the basin.

National Children’s Museum: 

This haven of hands-on activities is sure to keep the little ones, as well as the older ones, entertained. Inside are towers to climb, robots to build, and music compositions to create. Learn to develop a video game or get the scoop on how experts dissect weather patterns. 

With the dozens of interactive and educational exhibits in this place, you and your kids are sure to walk out feeling like the next Einstein.

Iconic landmarks

Of all the cities in the United States, Washington, D.C., is home to the most iconic historical landmarks. Luckily, they’re all within close proximity of each other, and with a little planning, you can see the most popular ones in a day. 

The National Mall:

At just 2.1 miles from end to end, the National Mall is the perfect location to take yourself on your own guided tour. There is an impressive number of memorials to visit, with the most popular sites being:

• The Washington Monument
• The World War II Memorial
• The Lincoln Memorial
• The Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• The Korean War Veterans Memorial
• The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
• The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
• The Jefferson Memorial

To ensure an informative self-guided tour, there are four ways to go about it.

1. Read the plaques: Each site boasts a plaque dedicated to details about its history and construction. Some of the bigger landmarks will also offer printed brochures you can take with you.
2. Bring a guidebook: Make some extra space in your bag and bring along a fact-filled copy of National Geographic Traveler, Washington Post Pocket Guide, or Lonely Planet Washington, D.C.
3. Ask the Park Rangers: They’re stationed all over the National Mall and are a fountain of information. If you need to know anything from a particular date to the location of the closest restroom, ask a ranger.
4. National Park Service app: The organization offers audio tours and historical data through its app that can be downloaded directly to your smartphone. 

Since you’ll be walking a lot today, why not take your family to and from the National Mall in a comfortable passenger van rental? Ronald Reagan Building’s garage offers secure parking right near the Washington Monument.

The White House:

Without a doubt, one of the best things to do in Washington, D.C., is take a free tour of the White House. Public tours are available Tuesdays – Saturdays (with the exception of federal holidays) between 9:30 AM and 12:30 PM. 

In order to secure your place in line, you must reach out to your state’s Member of Congress and Congressional Tour Coordinator. This can be done online through Congress.gov between 21 and 90 days out from your desired visit. Foreign citizens must contact their embassy in Washington, D.C. to make an official request. 

Alternatively, you can take in the Executive Mansion’s ambience with sweeping views from Lafayette Square. Or, wander around the inspiring White House Visitor Center, both within walking distance.

Museums and cultural venues

One of the coolest things about visiting D.C. isn’t just the quality of its museums and venues, which surpasses most institutions worldwide – it’s the fact that nearly all of them are free to enter! Feed your inner artist, historian, and scientist with a meander through these spectacular centers.

Smithsonian Institution Museums:

Did you know that the number of objects housed in the Smithsonian Museums surpasses 150 million? That makes it home to the largest collection of artifacts anywhere in the world, and it’s all accessible for free! 

Narrowing down where to go may be your biggest challenge, as the institution boasts 21 action-packed museums. The most popular include:

• The National Air and Space Museum
• The National Museum of American History
• The National Museum of Natural History
• The National Museum of African American History and Culture

Before you go, check out each museum’s website for any must-see exhibits and family-friendly programs to enjoy together.

There’s something for everyone in this city. In addition to the Smithsonian collection, art and espionage enthusiasts might want to check out:

• The National Gallery of Art
• The Phillips Collection
• The International Spy Museum

Outdoor activities and parks

Washington, D.C. is known for its extensive network of parks and green space. Dive into nature with visits to these historic sanctuaries. 

Rock Creek Park:

Bike, hike, and fill up on Civil War sites on the 32 miles of trails that weave in and out of U.S. history and nature. Nature’s getaway within the city limits is home to stone bridges, unique rock formations, and unexpected overlooks.

National Arboretum:

Escape the hustle and bustle of D.C. for a bit at the National Arboretum. Discover more than 450 acres of undulating landscapes showcasing the lush gardens of China Alley to an explosion of colors at Azalea Collections. When you’re ready to relax, make your way to its fragrant Herb Garden.

Give yourself lots of time to explore the grounds at your leisure. Secure a Washington, D.C., van rental and arrive at the Arboretum in 20 minutes (traffic permitting). Parking is free and plentiful.

Theodore Roosevelt Island:

Cross through the tiny island that embodies our 26th president’s dedication to natural resource preservation. What was once neglected farmland has long been transformed into a natural sanctuary. Today, it brims with trees, trails, and breathtaking views of the Potomac River on the island’s western end.

Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens:

An oasis of water lilies and lotus flowers in the middle of the buzzing nation’s capital? It does exist, and it’s absolutely worth a visit. The park is full of ponds, each teeming with dazzling, multihued water lilies dwarfed by the giant white petals of neighboring lotus flowers. It’s a sight to be seen, especially in July when the bold buds are at their peak.

Unique neighborhoods and market

The nation’s capital has always attracted an eclectic mix of people – students, expats, artists, chefs, entrepreneurs – making it one of the world’s most diverse cities. Check out the different corners and personalities of D.C. on your next trip. 

Georgetown:

Known for its charming cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and upscale shops and restaurants, one could easily spend a day getting lost in Georgetown. Don’t miss a visit to the Old Stone House, meticulously preserved since its construction in the 18th century.

Adams Morgan:

At less than 0.5 square miles in size, D.C.’s most eclectic and vibrant neighborhood really packs a punch. Its largely international population has resulted in an array of diverse restaurants, showcasing top dishes from Ethiopia to Mexico. If you’re looking to party after dinner, you’re in the right place. Here, you’re guaranteed to find the best things to do in Washington, D.C., at night.

Dupont Circle:

For a cosmopolitan atmosphere, look no further than Dupont Circle. Spend the day sipping cappuccinos in trendy cafes, perusing local art galleries, and refreshing your wardrobe in its boutique shops. Pop into the Dupont Underground, an abandoned streetcar station turned contemporary art space.

Eastern Market:

Since 1873, the Eastern Market has been the community’s go-to for culinary necessities. Today, it’s a bustling center of farmers selling fresh produce and local artisans selling handmade crafts. Grab a mouthwatering meal from a street vendor before picking up a few tasty treats to take home.

U Street Corridor:

As the historic cornerstone of African American culture in D.C., U Street Corridor remains a lively haven for music lovers to this day. From jazz clubs to nightclubs, you can dance the night away after a famous chili dog at Ben’s Chili Bowl.

Nightlife and entertainment

In search of a pulsing nightlife scene? You’ve come to the right place. D.C.’s atmosphere for night owls is diverse. Options range from rooftop bars to comedy clubs, theaters to live music venues. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• For a fabulous rooftop bar: try The Highline at The Wharf for sweeping views of the Potomac River.
• For live music: head to the historic Howard Theatre or the legendary 9:30 Club in U Street Corridor. 
• For a night of laughter: book a table at a popular comedy club like The Improv or DC Improv.
• For a world-class theater performance: catch a show at either the Kennedy Center or the infamous Ford’s Theatre, where President Lincoln was assassinated in 1865.

After a night out on the town, wouldn’t it be nice to climb into a familiar and spacious passenger van? Assign a designated driver to take you around, or consider hiring a local chauffeur service. This guarantees safe and comfortable transportation after dark.

Special events and festivals

Are you a budget-savvy traveler on the lookout for the best free things to do in Washington, D.C.? The city is bursting with events and festivals throughout the year and most are open to the public at no cost to enter! It’s likely that something special, and free, will be going on when you arrive. 

Here’s a short list of the most celebrated events:

• National Cherry Blossom Festival (March/April): When the cherry trees start to bloom, D.C. commemorates the United States’s friendship with Japan.
• Independence Day (July): The nation’s capital celebrates the country’s declaration of independence from Great Britain with 4th of July fireworks and amazing parties.
• Smithsonian Folklife Festival (June/July): A lively appreciation of the nation’s many cultures through music, dance, food, and arts and crafts.
• Jazz in the Garden (June/August): Head to the National Gallery of Art’s flourishing Sculpture Garden for live jazz performances.
• National Book Festival (September): Book lovers from all over the world unite in Washington, D.C., to honor the power of reading and writing.

Before you go, take a look at citywide event calendars on websites like Washington DC or DCist to see what’s aligning with your visit. If you’re on the lookout for free things to do in Washington, D.C.

Why see D.C. in a rental van? 

Securing a Washington, D.C. van rental offers a unique and practical way to explore all the nooks and crannies of U.S.A.’s exciting capital. Here’s why:

Freedom and flexibility: With a passenger van, you’re at liberty to come and go as you please, without relying on public transportation schedules or tour itineraries. Explore hidden gems, take detours at your leisure, and pack that “just-in-case” jacket without having to carry it around all day.

Convenient group travel: For those visiting D.C. with family and friends, there’s no better vehicle than a spacious passenger van. The extra room doesn’t just comfortably accommodate riders and their luggage – traveling together promotes bonding and unforgettable memories.

Affordability: Renting a single van is often more cost-effective than multiple car rentals or relying on taxis or ride-sharing services, especially for larger groups. Besides paying one daily rental fee, you’ll be responsible to fill just one gas tank and to park only one vehicle at a time.

Cargo space: Don’t let the small trunk of a car cramp your style! With a passenger van, you’ll have ample storage space for suitcases, a cooler for drinks and snacks, and the souvenirs you’ll collect while sightseeing.

Day trip opportunities: Explore beyond D.C. with ease by renting a passenger van, where you can store all the items you’ll need for a day of visiting nearby must-sees like Arlington National Cemetery or the colonial city of Alexandria. Have a look at our suggested road trips from D.C. for more ideas.  

FAQs about things to do in Washington, D.C.

Are 2 days enough to see Washington, D.C.?

Two days are enough to see the most famous landmarks and neighborhoods in Washington, D.C. To achieve this most effectively, we suggest pre-planning your itinerary and securing one reliable form of transportation, like a passenger van rental, instead of multiple cars that may be time-consuming to coordinate. 

What is the most famous thing in D.C.?

The most famous thing in D.C. is undoubtedly the White House. With upwards of 25 million visitors to the capital each year, it’s certain that a large majority will at least snap a selfie in front of the iconic mansion.

How do I visit Washington, D.C., in 3 days?

To see the most of D.C. in three days, it helps to organize your trip by theme. Here’s a suggestion:

• Day 1: Visit the most famous monuments and memorials, including those at the National Mall, the Capitol Building and the White House. 
• Day 2: Check out the incredible collection of Smithsonian Museums like the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum. If there’s time, head to the National Zoo in the afternoon.
• Day 3: Explore D.C.’s colorful neighborhoods like Georgetown, Dupont Circle, and U Street Corridor.

The best things to do in Washington, D.C. are a short drive away! Here’s your free van rental quote.