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Nestled in metropolitan Washington DC is our nation’s capitol. Recognizable by Smithsonian museums, memorials and monuments, there are so many things to do in Washington DC. This post outlines everything to do and see to make your trip memorable without breaking the bank.
Before You Go
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1. Tour The White House
Visiting The White House is an incredible way to experience our country’s history. This first-hand look at one of the most famous buildings in the world. The White House sits on the famous 1600 block of Pennsylvania Avenue and welcomes visitors through its prestigious doors.
Looking to visit the White House? Check out these 25 things to see on the FREE tour of the White House.
2. Eat At Old Ebbitt Grill
After you leave The White House, walk a half mile down the road. You will find the Old Ebbitt Grill awaiting. This historic restaurant is famous to Washington DC.
See over 9,000 reviews of Old Ebbitt Grill on YELP!
Depending on when you stop in, it could be very busy. This restaurants seats thousands of visitors.
Make a reservation at Old Ebbitt Grill through Open Table.
Hungry for more? Check out these 8 amazing restaurants in Washington DC you must try.
3. Tour The 10 Monuments
My favorite things to do in Washington DC all centered around the monuments and memorials. Located on the National Mall, you will see tributes to our nation’s leaders and those who gave their lives for our country.
With everything from the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument to the Thomas Jefferson Memorial across the Tidal Basin, you will want to see it all!
There are so many incredible sights along the National Mall. These are all 10 monuments to see in Washington DC.
4. Scooter Around The National Mall
The National Mall does not look overwhelming online. I thought I was fit and could walk the area. Boy, I was wrong! We ended up grabbing scooters to visit each of the monuments. These scooters were worth every cent as we were able to see each monument and have fun in between. Grab a scooter and ride around the National Mall! It is a easy way to get around and is carbon conscious.
5. Walk Up To Capitol Hill
The US Capitol is a massive sight on the National Mall. It is bigger than I ever imagined. I loved walking to the top of the hill and snapping photos.
The US Capitol has two photogenic sides so you can see it from the east and west. The east side of the US Capitol overlooks the National Mall along with the many monuments. The west side of the US Capitol looks over the Supreme Court and Library of Congress.
See this historic building along with 10 reasons to take amazing pictures at the US Capitol.
6. Soak In The Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has a captivating aura. The architecture with its sprawling pillars took my breath away. Walk up to the top of the steps and look back at the US Capitol. Think about the many protests, marches, and more that have taken place on these very steps.
The Supreme Court is currently closed to the public. They previously offered tours throughout the week.
Click here to check if the building is open when you visit Washington DC.
7. Peek At The Library Of Congress
This large building is home to the Library of Congress. While it is neighbors to the Supreme Court and US Capitol, it is also a breathtaking building on its own.
Tours of the Library of Congress are FREE! Click here to book your tour up to 30 days in advance.
8. Pay Your Respects At Arlington National Cemetery
Visit John F. Kennedy’s final resting place that looks over Washington DC. There are rows and rows of headstones lining these prestigious grounds. The bravest men and women who served our country are buried at Arlington National Cemetery.
Want to know more about John F. Kennedy’s final resting place? Check out these 10 reasons to visit Arlington National Cemetery in Washington DC.
9. Visit A Smithsonian Museum
The famous Smithsonian museums are located in Washington DC. Most are located on the National Mall. Depending on what you are interested in, there is a museum for you! One of the museums, the Smithsonian National Museum of American History, is home to first ladies’ inaugural dresses, Judy Garland’s ruby red slippers, and so much more.
Want to learn more about our country’s history? Check out these 3 reasons to tour the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.
There is also a museum centered around aviation and space. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is home to Amelia Earhart’s plane, a V-2 missile, and so much more.
Click here for a list of all Smithsonian museums.
Are you a space nut like me? Check out 5 reasons the Air and Space Museum is the best in Washington DC.
10. Be A Secret Agent At The International Spy Museum
Live out the ultimate Mission Impossible / James Bond / Jason Bourne fantasy at the International Spy Museum. Here, you can see the various tools used for espionage over the years. The museum is outfit with an array of hats, goggles, listening devices, and even weapons.
You will see the inside work of our national security and the creative tactics used throughout the years. The International Spy Museum in Washington DC offers an experience not found anywhere else.
Are you ready for your undercover mission? Here are 5 reasons you must visit the International Spy Museum in Washington DC.
11. Experience The Scandal Room
Not all of our nation’s history is a happy memory. Like the Watergate scandal. It destroyed Richard Nixon’s presidency and caused some distrust in the executive office. Well, the Watergate scandal may have happened 50 years ago but it is still prevalent today. Located at The Watergate Hotel, you can check out the Scandal Room.
With a view of the Watergate Complex, you can see where the break-in at the Democratic National Committee headquarters went down.
See where the Watergate break-in occurred. Here are 3 reasons to see The Scandal Room in Washington DC.
Book Your Trip Now
Whether you are looking for things to do in Washington DC or just looking for inspiration for your next vacation, I hope you enjoyed reading about my favorite places. The only thing better than visiting these spots and enjoying them is getting to share them with friends and family. Have you been to our nation’s capitol? What are your favorite things to do in Washington DC? Please comment sharing your experience.
There are so many FREE tours available in Washington DC. Here are instructions on how to book FREE tours in Washington DC.
Cheers!
