50+ Washington DC Attractions You Can’t Miss [in 2024!]

  GENERAL TRAVEL INFO FOR VISITORS TO THE USA

Visa: Travelers from countries that are members of the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) do not require a visa when visiting the USA. However, it is recommended to check up-to-date visa entry requirements before your visit regardless of what country you are coming from to avoid issues and concerns on the date of your travel.

Currency: The official currency in Washington DC is the U.S. dollar or American dollar ($, USD, US$). 
You can withdraw currency from ATMs using your local bank card or a designated travel card. If you are visiting from another country, be sure to check any fees and charges from your bank prior to using it and carry a second source of payment/cash in case your primary card gets ‘eaten’ by an ATM.

Language: English is the primary and most widely spoken language in the USA (although not the official one at the Federal level!) There are 350 other languages spoken, the main ones being Spanish, Chinese, French, and Vietnamese.

WiFi/Internet Access: Depending on your length of stay, you can either purchase a local sim card (in advance or on arrival) – to swap out with the one in your own phone to avoid roaming charges. OR, grab a pay as you go portable Wifi Devices which means you can keep your sim active and connect wirelessly. Just remember to turn off data roaming so you don’t incur any hefty charges.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial (FDR Memorial) was dedicated on May 2, 1997 and is one of the twenty-six presidential memorials in Washington DC. It is situated south of the Reflecting Pool and the Lincoln Memorial and north of the Tidal Basin, near 17th Street NW in West Potomac Park.

The memorial honors Franklin Delano Roosevelt, whose presidency ran from 1933 to 1945, for his dedication to democracy at home and abroad, establishing Social Security, providing relief for the American people during the Great Depression, advocating freedom from fear while leading America’s efforts to defeat Adolf Hitler’s Germany in World War II.

Washington Tourist Attractions: Art, History & Culture

With iconic institutions such as the Smithsonian museums, the world’s largest library and the famous Kennedy Center, Washington DC truly packs a punch in terms of cultural discovery. This is far from an exhaustive list- so be sure to iron out your to-do list of museums in Washington DC before you arrive.

Check out the 17 Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Institution is an educational establishment that encompasses 17 museums and research centers throughout the city of Washington DC. Whether you’re interested in art, animals, culture, or history museums – you’ll be truly spoilt for choice.

We have put together a complete guide to all the Free Smithsonian Museums (in DC, NYC and Virginia) but in case you want a quick list, the 17 Smithsonian Museums in DC that offer free entry are:

• Anacostia Community Museum
• American Art Museum and Renwick Gallery
• Arts and Industries Building
• Arthur M. Slacker Gallery
• Freer Gallery of Art
• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
• National Air and Space Museum
• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• National Museum of African Art
• National Museum of American History
• National Museum of the American Indian
• National Museum of Natural History
• National Portrait Gallery
• National Postal Museum
• National Zoo (more below in ‘Free Open Spaces, Parks & Walking Tours in Washington DC‘)
• Smithsonian American Art Museum
• Smithsonian Institution Building (“The Castle”)

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Explore the Exhibitions in the National Gallery of Art

From Pop Art to Sculpture, photography to byzantine masterpieces, the National Gallery of Art boasts a truly spectacular curated collection of world-renowned works. Visitors get a timed pass to explore free of charge.

Visit the Largest Library in the World

If you think of libraries as fusty old buildings full of dusty books – a visit to the Library of Congress may change your view. Its domed ceilings, frescoes, regal architecture, and marble columns make it a true sight to behold.

Visit to uncover a specific exhibition or take the one-hour walking tour of the Jefferson Building and head to the 6^th floor of the James Madison Memorial Building for spectacular views over the city.

Unveil History the National Archives Museum

See history with your own two eyes as you examine the most famous documents known to the United States. The National Archives Museum is the headquarters for the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and the Constitution, as well as over 3 billion other documents and records.

Examine them yourself or take a tour as guided tours take place each day with an educated leader explaining the history and significance of the documents, their purpose, and how they are taken care of and maintained.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) is one of the law enforcement divisions of the United States Department of the Treasury, created by an Act of Congress in 1862.

The Bureau has been around for over 150 years, designing, producing, and shipping currency to Federal Reserve Banks throughout the United States, and one of its main functions was to ensure that the US’s paper currency was (and is) secure and difficult to counterfeit.

Visitors are to take a guided tour to see how U.S paper currency is made on state-of-the-art printing presses – from behind a glass wall – overlooking production floor operations for both large and small notes.
*Editors note* Guided tours were suspended in 2020 due to the virus, and no date has been set for the recommencement as yet – but hopefully they will soon.

War Memorials & Memorial Gardens in Washington DC

The Nations Capital is (clearly) home to several important monuments and memorials, but the various War Memorials in DC are especially important. They are a testament to those who sought and served for not only the freedom of Americans but freedom for citizens around the world. They are free to visit and we encourage all visitors to DC to spare some time to pay their respects to the fallen (whether you agree with the wars themselves or not).

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial was completed in 1982 and is the only national memorial dedicated to veterans who served in a war that took place after World War II.
The designer, Maya Lin, used a black granite wall and had 57,939 names inscribed on its surface. As of the start of 2024, there are 58,281 names on The Wall, each of whom gave their lives or remain missing as a result of the conflict.

Arlington National Cemetery

Walking the grounds of the Arlington Ceremony is considered by many to be close to a religious experience. The rolling green hills of this 624-acre compound are accented with white marble gravestones that mark the final resting place of more than 400,000 veterans and active-duty military members.

Take a guided tour around the grounds and pay your respects at JFK’s gravesite before making your way over to the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier to watch the changing of the guards’ hourly ceremony. Or for those that have difficulty walking – or would just prefer not to –  grab a ticket for the Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour and cover the vast grounds with ease.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

The Korean War Veterans Memorial in Washington DC is a physical reminder of the sacrifices made by those who served. It was built to serve as a tribute to the 5.7 million Americans that served in the Korean War, including those that are still alive today.

It was designed by Maya Lin, who also designed the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and consists of two walls with an area between them which is called “the valley.”

The north wall displays the names of 36,634 Americans, along with 7,174 South Koreans who were killed or missing during the war. The south wall displays 100 photographs of various soldiers and scenes from the war, which are organized into five sections: “ordinary soldier,” “soldier at war,” “soldier back home,” “civilian at home” and “civilian abroad.”

World War II Memorial

The World War II Memorial was completed in 2004 and includes a combination of 56 columns (representing US states and territories) with 2 arches at either end, curving around an oval plaza with the Rainbow Pool and Fountain at its center.

Through stone architecture, bronze sculptures, reliefs, and the Wall of Stars the World War II Memorial recognizes the ways Americans served in the military and on the home front, honors those who fell and recognizes the victory that was achieved to restore freedom and end tyranny around the globe.
Located on the National Mall adjacent to the Washington Memorial, it is open 24 hours a day.

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

The effects of World War II stretched even to the farthest reaches of the world, and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum does a fine job at remembering the war and those that were lost.

Discover just how World War II intertwines with American history in one of their 5 in-depth exhibits. View artifacts and films as you hear personal stories showcased in a unique way.

Visiting this internationally acclaimed museum offers an emotional and eye-opening experience that is not to be passed by. Timed tickets are required, and are free, but are subject to a $1 transaction fee when reserving them online.

Open Spaces, Parks & Walking Tours in Washington DC

Washington is full of open-air gems and beauty spots to enjoy by foot. From lesser-known sections of the city, to landscaped and manicured parks and gardens such as the National Mall or the more rural ruggedness of Theodore Roosevelt Island, the city is a perfect base from which to embark on a walking tour of independently explore the beguiling diversity of its streets and nearby greener pastures.

Walk a Lap around the Reflecting Pool

A great way to take a breath and enjoy the outdoors in Washington DC is to take a stroll around the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool (or super-fast lap if you are Captain America). And if you find yourself here around sunset, why not take a seat on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial (or anywhere else around the pool) and watch the sun go down – and hopefully the sky put on a show for you (like it did in the picture above!)

Embark on a treasure hunt of Street Art

Famed for the vibrant colors of its street art, Washington DC is a great place to uncover some of the more urban artistic talents of the capital. Following the colorful murals toward the cities dedicated street art gallery and community arts center, The Fridge is a great way to while away a few hours in awe of the magnificent masterpieces which adorn the cities walls.

See the Monuments on the National Mall

While we have already listed the majority of the Washington DC monuments – did you know you can actually walk between each of them to create your own walking tour!

Stretching from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall is an almost 2-mile walkway showcasing some of the city’s most famous monuments.

Marvel at the height of the Washington Monument, meander along the reflection pool, catch a glimpse of the White House and be humbled at the World War II, Korean War, Vietnam War and Veterans Memorials. It all leads up to the grand finale, the Lincoln Memorial, a stunning monument situated at the Western end of the Mall.

Walking the Mall is an excellent introduction to the city and lets visitors see many popular destinations in one location! Or see above for Hop On Hop Off Tour tickets if walking isn’t your thing (or the weather isn’t playing nice!)

See it all: Take a Hop On Hop Off Trolley Tour

If you are short on time, less mobile, or just don’t want to ruin your feet trying to walk between all the incredible Washington DC attractions, take a load off with a ticket for the HOHO Bus or Old Town Trolley Tour. (We did mention them earlier, but they definitely deserve their own section!)

The Old Town Trolley Tour has stops at 39 different Washington DC tourist attractions, which include everything on this list PLUS stops at Union Station, the Old Post Office Pavillion, Tidal Basin (for those epic views!), Dupont Circle, Lafayette Square, and the National Geographic Museum.

Wander through historic Georgetown

Spend some time uncovering the treasure trove of the Georgetown Historic District. It’s so significant it has been inscribed on the list of National Historic Landmarks (along with 75 other national historic sites and buildings in DC). 

Georgetown, which was originally a trading dock in the 1700s pre-dates the city of Washington DC. Its charming cobbled streets, boutiques, pubs and restaurants have an other-worldly vibe to the rest of the city, making it a great place to explore on foot.

Enjoy the US National Arboretum

The US National Arboretum is a great place for anyone who loves plants because there are more than 4,000 species of plants, shrubs, and trees. And if you are the type of person that doesn’t know their petunias from their peonies (I have no green thumb in case you were wondering) you could join one of the free guided tours.

While you’re here be sure to check out the Arboretum’s popular National Bonsai & Penjing Museum (open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. most days), the Gotelli Conifer Collection and the Instagram-worthy National Capitol Columns.

See the Cherry Blossoms in Spring

Although seasonal (you’re unlikely to have much luck outside the months of March or April), Washington’s pink and perfect display of blooming cherry blossoms is one of the best outside of Japan. If you happen to be there at the right time of year, head to the East Potomac Park or the Tidal Basin (above) for the best display of this stunning natural phenomenon.

Go hiking on Theodore Roosevelt Island

Uncover the beautiful slice of woodland that is Theodore Roosevelt Island. Situated in the middle of the Potomac River, the 89-acre island which is accessible via a pedestrian bridge houses forest trails, and wooden paved pathways through lush green marshland – and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot a few deer along the way.

Embark on a Free City Walking Tour

There are a number of great walking tours on offer in the city of Washington, many of which are free or at a ‘name your price’ donation (Please always donate – the guides often rely on these ‘tips’). Uncover the ghosts of the city on a night tour or discover the beauty and history of the city’s riverside areas. Check out Strawberry Tours or Free tours by foot for some great options.

If you feel awkward paying what you feel, or would prefer not to walk, or are simply short on time and want to see as much as possible, there are plenty of organized tours on a variety of different modes of transport including bus, trolley, bike, segway, boat etc.

Picnic in Rock Creek Park

Just a little way north of the city centre is the vast and verdant wonderland of Rock Creek Park. With hiking trails and equestrian trails, the park is a popular spot for those looking for a little slice of nature at an easy distance from the city. If you’re there in Autumn, check out the beautiful colors along the Boulder Bridge trail and stop for a picnic and a flask of something warming along the way.

Visit the Smithsonian National Zoo

Home to over 1,800 animals, the historic national zoo is over 130 years old. The sprawling parkland which makes up part of the Smithsonian houses elephants, pandas, cheetahs, tigers and even bears, among many more, so you can get up close and personal with some of the world’s greatest creatures and critters for the day.

Entry is free (parking is paid) and all visitors require a ticket which can be reserved online before your visit via the main website (linked above).

Explore the United States Botanic Garden

Visitors can find over 13,000 types of plants in the United States Botanic Garden. Covering a total of 230 acres it is the oldest botanical garden in North America and is open daily from 8am to dusk every day of the year with the exception of Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Years Day. 

International Spy Museum

These interactive, first-person spy artifacts from all over the world will excite the children in your group or even the inner child in you! This state-of-the-art facility is more than 5,500 square feet and is stocked full of high-tech international spy gear and exhibits.

Watch a number of short films showing the history and elements of spycraft before testing your hand at a number of puzzles and mind games to see how good of a spy you would make! (Be sure to grab your ticket before you arrive).

Explore Chinatown

Washington DC’s Chinatown district is a vibrant and bustling neighborhood that offers a unique cultural experience. The district is home to a large Asian-American community and is filled with Chinese, Korean, and Vietnamese restaurants, as well as markets selling Asian goods.

Visitors can explore the neighborhood’s many shops and businesses, or take a walk along the Friendship Archway, a colorful and ornate archway that serves as the entrance to Chinatown (pictured above)

Extra: Mount Vernon Day Trip

Mount Vernon is the historic home of George Washington, the first President of the United States. Visitors can tour the mansion, which has been restored to its 18th-century appearance and contains many of Washington’s personal belongings. The estate also features beautiful gardens, a working blacksmith shop, and a museum that tells the story of Washington’s life and legacy.

A visit to Mount Vernon also includes a tour of the distillery and gristmill, which have been restored and now demonstrate the 18th-century methods of whiskey production. The tour guides are knowledgeable and provide a wealth of information about the history of the estate. Mount Vernon is located about 16 miles south of Washington DC and so makes for the perfect day trip destination if you have a little extra time on your hands when in DC.