Best things to do in Washington, DC

Washington, DC has something for everyone, from nature lovers to city slickers.

The best things to do in the US capital are listed here.

1. Get a history lesson at the Smithsonian museums

What is a trip to DC without seeing all the monuments? The focus of a trip to the capital can easily be dominated by all of the museums. From the National Museum of African American History and Culture to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, there's a lot to learn about history.

Check the individual websites to see what's happening when, as most of the museums offer free guided tours.

There are a lot of free things to do in DC.

2. Take a walking tour 

Do you want to learn about the history of some of the most famous spots in the district or do you just want to explore? You can join a walking tour. Walking tours are a great way to see a city from a different point of view. Cultural Tourism DC or Washington Walks are examples of companies that work with the community.

3. Soak up the splendor of the National Mall

A nation has people, history, politics and knowledge. The National Mall is the center of iconography of the most important city in the US. It's where the nation's ideals are expressed in various places. It is also where Americans come to protest. If you're looking for a must-visit destination that provides days of enjoyment and edification, this one is for you.

4. Travel your taste buds at Compass Rose

Do you want to travel without a passport? The goal of the restaurant is to send your taste buds around the world. The Tour of the World menu features dishes from all over the world, from Jamaican lamb curry to fresh Lebanon salads and kebabs.

Anyone can enjoy the 2.5 hour experience. Guests are sitting in a Bedouin-style tent while eating.

There is a year-round guide to the US capital.

5. Explore Georgetown

There are a lot of things to do in Georgetown. The charming neighborhood is filled with eye-catching architecture and cobblestone streets. There is a garden to enjoy at Georgetown Waterfront Park. The C&O Canal was built in the 1800s to move goods from one place to another. You can rent canoes and kayaks in DC to explore the rivers.

Georgetown has a number of vintage shops filled with stylish goods.

Consignment and thrift stores in Washington, DC can be found.

6. Stop and shop at Eastern Market

If you want to see a lot of local DC businesses in one day, Eastern Market is a great place to go. There are more than 100 vendors at the market that sell handmade crafts and jewelry. The last of the 19th century covered markets that supplied DC's food is located in Capitol Hill.

The Eastern Market has different hours for both indoor and outdoor sections.

7. Adore the animals at Smithsonian's National Zoo

The National Zoo is one of the most popular attractions in the district. The pandas, big cats and orangutans are some of the animals that can be seen at the zoo, which was founded in 1889.

You can reserve a free ticket online up to 30 days prior to the event.

8. Join a community event at Busboys and Poets

Busboys and Poets says it's a cultural hub where racial and cultural connections are consciously uplifted. The community gathering space has a lot to offer. Busboys and Poets was founded in 2005 by Iraqi American artist and activist Andy Shallal.

9. Have your mind blown at Artechouse 

Artechouse is a digital art experience that takes the limits off creativity. The mission of Artechouse is to inspire and educate. The exhibit will make you feel like you're in a sci-fi movie.

10. Catch a live performance at the Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center is a cultural center. The Opera House is home to the Washington National Opera and the Concert Hall is home to the National symphony orchestra.

There is a free performance on the Millennium Stage every day at 6pm.

11. Walk along the water at The Wharf 

There are rooftop restaurants, a movie theater, and shops on the one mile stretch of the river known as the wharf. There are yoga classes on the waterfront. The oldest continuously operating open-air fish market in the country is located at The Municipal Fish Market. It has live music, bars, and family friendly activities.

12. Get into nature at Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park is a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are trails for hiking, cycling, and horseback riding in the park, which is twice the size of Central Park.

The article was first published in June of 2021.