37 Must Visit Tourist Attractions and Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

October 17, 2022 Mustafa Natalwala 2504 Views

Washington DC is the national capital city and the federal district of the United States of America. The city is a reservoir of history, art, and culture. About 70% of the fun things to do in Washington DC revolve around museums and memorials.

The city is home to the President of the USA and the HQs of the federal agency. The majority of the best places to visit in Washington DC are centered around the White House & Capitol Building. The city was decreed as the capital city in 1790 and the location was picked by George Washington himself.

Almost all of the best things to see in Washington DC have witnessed major historical events including fires, protests, wars, riots, and more. This city has seen the speech of various presidents, the assassination of Abraham Lincoln, “I Have a Dream” speech of Dr. King, the passing of major laws, historical legal proceedings in the federal court, and more.

You will find many memorials dedicated to important figures and events. Each president has a memorial in the city and so do important non-presidential public figures like Dr. King. Washington DC tourist attractions also include memorials dedicated to soldiers who fought and lost their lives in wars for America.

Another bulk of Washington DC attractions is made up of museums, the majority of which are part of the Smithsonian. You will get to see museums concerning various cultures, historical events, art, science, technology, industry, architecture, nature, and more.

Washington DC tourist spots have also been popularized by films and television shows. The city has been featured in blockbuster films like Air Force One, All the President’s Men, Armageddon, Batman v Superman, Captain America, Forest Gump, Die Hard 2, and many more.

A film locations tour is one of the most interesting ways to approach Washington DC sightseeing. You can also the city through a variety of package tours such as walking tours, bicycle tours, bus tours, haunted locations tours, history of America tours, museums tours, art exploration tours, and so on.

You can basically learn about most of American and World history, culture, science, and art during your Washington DC trip.

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Table of Contents

Top 37 Tourist Places to Visit in Washington DC in 5 Days (Trip Itinerary)

If you have only one day in Washington DC, then here I have listed some of the top-rated tours and unique things to do in Washington DC. You can choose a tour or activity according to your interest and convenience.

Day 1

1. The White House and Visitor Center

The house of the President of the USA, this building has seen much history. The building was first built in 1800 and is renowned for its neoclassical architecture. Tour of the presidential residence is one of the top things to do in Washington DC. Each president contributed something to the White House, both in terms of artifacts and historical events. You will need to submit a request at least 21 days before you visit Washington DC. You will need at least an hour to tour this historical monument.

2. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

This memorial wall is dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the Vietnam War of 1955-75. The wall bears the names of 58,300 fallen soldiers. You will need 10 to 15 minutes from Washington DC travel to pay respects at this memorial.

3. Lincoln Memorial

This monument, inaugurated in 1922, honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the USA. The large statue of Lincoln sitting regally is one of the best things to see in Washington DC. The monument was designed by Henry Bacon, but the statue was carved by Daniel Chester French. The memorial building resembles a greek temple with a peristyle of 16 columns. It is also noteworthy for several historical events and has also been featured in many Hollywood films. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour the Lincoln Memorial.

4. Korean War Veterans Memorial

This memorial honors the soldiers who fought in the Korean War of 1950-53. It pays respect to 5.7 million American soldiers who fought in this war and especially those who lost their lives. The 19 steel figures of soldiers created by Frank Gaylord are among Washington DC tourist attractions. Each figure represents a different rank, duty, race, and weapon. You will need 15 to 20 minutes for this memorial.

5. D.C. War Memorial

This memorial honors people from the District of Columbia who lost their lives in the first World War. This monument was designed by WWI veterans and resembles a circular Doric temple. This monument has also seen several historic events and has been used in Hollywood films. You will need 15 to 20 minutes for the D.C. War Memorial.

6. Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial

This memorial celebrates the life and work of Martin Luther King Jr., the hero of the American civil rights movement. You will see sculptures of several presidents and historical figures of American history at this memorial site as well. The one of MLK Jr. was created by Lei Yixin from a solid block of granite. It is one of the best places to visit in Washington DC to admire the significance of Dr. King. He is the only African American to have a monument near the National Mall and one of only 4 non-presidents to have such a celebrated monument in the capital city. You will need 20 to 30 minutes to explore this memorial.

7. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

This monument pays homage to Teddy Roosevelt, the 26th President of the USA. He was one of the most prolific president and this memorial celebrates various aspects of his life. It is one of the most popular Washington DC tourist spots. The monument has 4 outdoor sections representing each of TDR’s 4 terms in the presidential office. You will need about half an hour to tour this place.

8. George Mason Memorial

George Mason was one of the founding fathers of the country. He wrote the Virginia Declaration of Rights which inspired Jefferson’s Declaration of Independence. The monument has a life-size sculpture of Mason created by Wendy Ross. George Mason is best remembered for withholding his signature on the Declaration of Independence because it did not abolish slavery. You will need 15 to 20 minutes from Washington DC sightseeing to explore this monument.

9. Jefferson Memorial

From the man who inspired the Declaration of Independence to the guy who wrote it. This memorial is dedicated to the 3rd President of America. Designed by John Russel Pope, this memorial is made to resemble the Roman Pantheon. The memorial has sculptures, statues, and carvings depicting important moments from Jefferson’s life. You will need 20 to 30 minutes from Washington DC trip for this memorial.

10. Washington Monument

Standing 170 meters tall, this gneiss obelisk is built with white marble and bluestone. It is one of the most fascinating places to see in Washington DC. You can get tickets to reach the observation deck at the top of the monument to get breathtaking views of the city. There is also a museum inside the monument that has a collection of photographs taken from the observation deck. You can witness the evolution of the city over the years. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this monument.

11. National World War II Memorial

This monument is dedicated to the 16 million Americans who served in the second world war and the 400,000 soldiers who lost their lives. The memorial is built in an elliptical shape with semi-circle pillars at the end curves. Each of the 56 pillars represents a state of the USA. It is one of the most elaborately designed places to go in Washington DC. You will need about half an hour to tour this memorial.

12. Smithsonian National Museum of American History

This museum traces the history of the United States of America through archeological pieces, photographs, cultural artifacts, artworks, films, and interactive exhibits. If you want to understand the country, this museum is must see in Washington DC. You will learn about the history of politics, war, culture, military, medicine, science, technology, industry, pop culture, and more. It is not just about learning. This museum is among the cool things to do in Washington DC for its entertainment, event, and workshop facilities as well. You will need 2 hours to tour this museum.

I suggest you should book a Guided Tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of American History.

13. The Capitol

The US Capitol building is one of the most iconic monuments in the country. It is a government building for US legislation meetings. It is also one of the most inspiring sites to see in Washington DC. The building is also renowned for its architecture. The dome of the Capitol has been featured in numerous blockbuster movies, tv shows, and music videos. It is regarded as the symbol of American democracy. You will need about an hour or so to tour this monumental building.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Tour of Capitol Hill which covers The Capitol and other attractions as well.

Day 2

1. United States Botanical Garden

This garden has an indoor forest, desert, different environments, and various themed gardens. It is one of the most famous places in Washington DC to be with nature for a while. You will see Hawaiian Garden, Lawn Terrace, Rose Garden, Terrace Garden, Fountains, Amphitheatre, and more. You will need about an hour to explore this garden.

2. National Museum of the American Indian

This institution is part of the Smithsonian museum and is dedicated to the history and culture of the native American people. The museum has more than 825,000 artifacts that tell the story of over 1,200 native American tribes. Collectively this museum exhibits 12,000 years of history. It is one of the top attractions in Washington DC for the building’s architecture as well. The exterior of the building is built with Kasota limestone and is designed to look like natural stone. You will need about 2 hours to tour this museum.

3. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

This museum traces the history of flight. It is one of the best-known Washington DC points of interest owing to the real flying machines exhibited here. The museum has 61 aircrafts and 51 spaceships. This museum was featured in several Hollywood movies including Transformers and Night at the Museum. You will need at least an hour to tour this museum.

I suggest you should book a Guided Tour of the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.

4. Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

This art museum features a collection of pieces created after WWII. You will see paintings, sculptures, photographs, art installations, and so on. It is one of the best things to do in Washington DC for art admirers. The museum contains artworks by renowned creators like Pollock, Henri Matisse, Picasso, Francis Bacon, and many more. You will need an hour and a half to tour this art museum.

5. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Situated in the National Mall, this museum explores the natural history of the world. You will see exhibits concerning zoology, geology, evolution, gemology, natural sciences, and much more. It is home to some of the most famous exhibits in the world including the $250 million Hope Diamond and the world’s largest faceted aquamarine gem. It has models of many animals, living and extinct. The museum is also known for educational and entertaining Washington DC activities and events. You will need at least 2 hours to tour this museum.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.

6. Madame Tussauds

This chain of museums exhibits wax figures of celebrities and historical figures. This particular museum has figures of American Presidents, musicians, film stars, TV stars, political figures, historical figures, sports stars, and more. It is a must-do in Washington DC for those looking to click interesting pictures. That’s essentially why many people visit this museum. You will need about an hour to tour this place.

Day 3

1. National Mall

This national park is home to numerous memorials, museums, and monuments. It also has 1000 acres of garden, recreational parks, ponds, and fountains. You can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities to do in Washington DC at the National Mall. The park and its monuments have been the venue for numerous historical events and has been also featured in Hollywood films, most popularly Forest Gump. You will need at least 2 hours to explore the National Mall.

I suggest you should do a National Mall Tour by Electric Vehicle.

2. National Gallery of Art

Spread over 2 buildings, this museum is home to historical and modern works of art. You will come across some of the best things to see in Washington DC at this museum including artworks by masters like Leonardo da Vinci, Van Gogh, Rembrandt, Raphael, Monet, Picasso, Andy Warhol, and many more. You will need 2 to 3 hours to tour this museum.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Tour of the National Gallery of Art.

3. National Archives Museum

This museum houses historical documents, photographs, and records. It is known among Washington DC tourist attractions for having renowned documents in its collections such as the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the USA, the Louisiana Purchase Treaty, the Emancipation Proclamation, and many more. You will need about an hour to explore this museum.

I suggest you should book a Guided Tour of the National Archives Museum.

4. National Portrait Gallery

The Portrait Gallery preserved portraits created by American artists. It is popular among Washington DC attractions for portraits of several people who shaped the country’s history and culture. Along with portraits of American presidents, you will also see portraits of pop-culture figures like Marilyn Monroe and Babe Ruth. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to explore this gallery.

I suggest you should go on a Guided Tour of the National Portrait Gallery and American Art Museum.

5. Smithsonian American Art Museum

This institution tells the story of American history and culture through artworks. The American Art Museum exhibits 3 centuries of artworks. It exhibits African American Art, Folk Art, Photographs, American Impressionist Art, Latino Art, Video Games, and much more. You will need an hour to tour this museum.

You should book a Guided Tour of the Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery.

Day 4

1. Ford’s Theatre

This theatre is infamous for the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln on April 14th in 1865. The assassin shot Lincoln in a box in the theatre when he was watching a play with his family. The theatre has been converted into a museum. It is one of the most important historical Washington DC tourist spots. You can take a guided tour of the museums and also watch a play about the event. You will need an hour for this historical site.

I suggest you should go for a Guided Walking Tour of Lincoln Assassination and that tour covers Ford’s Theatre and Petersen House.

2. Petersen House

After the assassin shot President Lincoln, he was brought into this house by the doctors. The doctors tried to help the president and treat his wounds until help arrived. The house was heavily guarded and doctors kept treating the president. Unfortunately, Lincoln succumbed to the fatal shots at 7:22 in the morning. The museum in this house talks about the desperate attempt by doctors to save the president and his last moments. You will need 30 to 45 minutes for this house museum.

I suggest you should book a Lincoln Assassination Tour to understand more about Petersen House.

3. International Spy Museum

This museum lets you peek into the world of international espionage. The museum looks at the history of various spy agencies around the world and celebrated spies. The exhibits also include spy gadgets, vehicles, weapons, recording devices, and more. You will need about an hour from Washington DC sightseeing for this museum.

I suggest you should get your Admission Ticket to the International Spy Museum in advance.

4. National Building Museum

This museum showcases the history of design, architecture, engineering, building technology, construction, and infrastructure. The building housing this museum itself is a historical architectural attraction to see during the Washington DC trip. You will get to see trends in construction from various periods in history and various civilizations. You will need an hour from Washington DC travel to tour this museum.

5. National Postal Museum

This Smithsonian museum looks at the history of postal services in the United States of America. You will see collections of postal stamps, uniforms, equipment, and more. The museum also tells several interesting stories of deliveries done by postal services in perilous conditions. It is one of the most interesting places to see in Washington DC. You will need about an hour for this museum.

6. The Supreme Court of the United States

The federal court is housed in a beautiful Neo-classical building that resembles a Greek temple. It is one of the most overwhelming places to go in Washington DC. This building is renowned for its architecture, interior decor, and various historical law proceedings that took place here. You will need an hour to explore this monumental building when you visit Washington DC.

Day 5

1. Smithsonian National Museum of African Art

This Smithsonian museum focuses on artworks, archeological discoveries, and artifacts from Africa. The collection of this museum includes paintings, jewelry, ritual masks, weapons, photographs, sculptures, maps, textiles, and more. It is must see in Washington DC for those interested in folk arts of the continent. The exhibits come from several places in Africa including Sudan, Cameroon, Congo Basin, Eastern Africa, Ogowe River Basin, Zaire, and so on. You will need about an hour and a half to tour this museum.

2. Freer Gallery of Art and Sackler Gallery (National Museum of Asian Art)

Both these art museums are part of the National Mall. Freer Gallery is dedicated to ancient Asian art, while Sackler Gallery has contemporary art from the same region. It is included among famous places in Washington DC to witness artworks and historical artifacts that go back several centuries. You will need at least 2 hours to tour these two museums.

3. Bureau of Engraving & Printing

This agency is part of the US Department of Treasury. The paper currency of the USA is designed and printed at this building. A guided tour of the building will show you the designing and printing process. You will literally see millions of dollars flow in front of you. That’s why it is one of the top attractions in Washington DC. You will need 30 to 45 minutes to tour this building.

4. United States Holocaust Museum

This memorial museum is dedicated to the victims of the Holocaust under Nazi Germany. It is one of the biggest Washington DC points of interest as the entire museum focuses on the prevention of genocide and racial hatred. It tells about the horrors faced by Holocaust victims and exhibits several artifacts which include books, photographs, belongings of the victims, manuscripts, video footages, and more. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

5. Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum

This art gallery is part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum. This museum focuses on contemporary American craft. It comprises unusual designs, decorative pieces, visual art, and practical art. It is one of the best places to visit in Washington DC to see abstract artworks. You will need about an hour to tour this museum.

6. Smithsonian National Zoological Park

This zoo is spread over 163 acres and has more than 1,800 animals of 360 species. You will see birds, reptiles, mammals, amphibians, and aquatic creatures. It houses animals that hail from Africa, Asia, North America, South America, Europe, and several oceans. It also has fun things to do in Washington DC for children and families. You will need about 2 hours to tour this zoo.

7. The National Geographic Museum

This museum has exhibits from a wide range of fields including history, archeology, major events, zoology, art, craft, culture, religions, and more. The museum has both permanent and temporary exhibition centers. Usually, the temporary exhibits are the highlight of the museum. You will need at least an hour to tour this museum.

If you are looking for more Washington DC points of interest check out the sections below. We have put together an exhaustive list of attractions and activities you can enjoy in and around the city.

Things to do in Washington DC

Monuments, Museums & Historical Places to Visit in Washington DC

United States Capitol Building
The White House
Library of Congress
Lincoln Memorial
Smithsonian Institution
National Gallery of Art
Washington Monument
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
National Mall
National Museum of African American History and Culture
National Museum of American History
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Arlington National Cemetery
National Portrait Gallery
Hirshhorn Museum
Vietnam Veteran Memorial
International Spy Museum
Smithsonian American Art Museum
National Museum of the American Indian
Washington National Cathedral
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
Ford’s Theatre
The Phillips Collection
Smithsonian Castle
National Museum of Women in the Arts
Dumbarton Oaks Museum
Korean War Veterans Memorial
National Building Museum
Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum
Hillwood Estate Museum & Gardens
Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum
Freer Gallery of Art
National Museum of Asian Art
Smithsonian National Museum of African Art
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Museum of the Bible
Basilisca of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
Tudor Place
National Gallery of Art-Sculpture Garden
National Geographic Museum
Arlington House & The Robert E. Lee Memorial
National Archives Research Center
Torpedo Factory Art Center
President Lincoln’s Cottage
The Mansion of O & O Street Museum
Anacostia Community Museum
Carlyle House Historic Park
Artechouse DC
Smithsonian Arts & Industries Building
Folger Shakespeare Library
National Archives Museum
African American Civil War Museum
The George Washington Masonic National Memorial
The Kreeger Museum
US Navy Museum
National Children’s Museum
Dumbarton House
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Old Stone House
Belmont Paul Women’s Equality National Monument
Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America
Gadsby’s Tavern Museum
Bureau of Engraving and Printing
World War II Memorial

Nature & Wildlife Tourist Spots in Washington DC

Rock Creek Park
Tidal Basin
Mount Vernon Trail

Entertainment & Leisure Tourist Spots in Washington DC

Smithsonian National Zoological Park
United States Botanic Garden
John F Kennedy Center for Performing Arts
United States National Arboretum
Theodore Roosevelt Island
Nationals Park
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
MGM National Harbour
Meridian Hill Park
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center
Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
The Yards
Glen Echo Park
Brookside Gardens
9:30 Club
Constitutions Gardens
Anacostia Park
Greenbelt Park
Clemyjontri Park

Shopping in Washington DC

Union Market
Eastern Market
Georgetown
Adams Morgan
U Street Northwest
Connecticut Avenue
City Center DC
Gallery Place
Georgetown Park
National Harbour
DuPont Circle
Mazza Gallerie
H Street Corridor

Offbeat Places, Tours, & Adventures in Washington DC

Film Locations Tour
Walking Tour
Bicycle Tour
Washington DC Night Tour
Hiking
Camping
Kayaking

Sightseeing in Washington DC

Washington Union Station
Supreme Court of the United States
The Pentagon
Union Market
George Washington Memorial Parkway
Old Post Office Pavilion
Lafayette Square
U Street Northwest
Capital Crescent Trail

Food, Dining, Restaurants, & Street Food in Washington DC

Union Market
Ellington Park Bistro
Kingbird
Corduroy
Ristorante Piccolo
Hard Rock Cafe
Teddy & The Bully Bar
The Tavern at Henley Park
Flavio
The Dubliner
The Liberty Tavern
Flight Wine Bar
Old Ebbit Grill
Gravitas
La Perla
Brunch at the Willard
Chez Billy Sud
Capitol Square Bar
Chaplin
Tabard Inn
Lafayette
1789
Lyon Hall
Ocean Prime
Le DeSales
Succotash Prime
Alhambra
Floriana
The Monocle
Das Ethiopian
Clyde’s of Chevy Chase

Where to Stay in Washington DC?

Here we have listed Top Rated Luxurious, Mid-Range, and Budget Hotels in Washington DC. You can check the below listed hotels for your perfect stay in Washington DC.

Luxurious Hotels

Mid-Range Hotels

Budget Hotels

Custom Tours Package in Washington DC

How to Reach Washington DC?

By Air

The closest airport to visit Washington DC is The Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. It is situated 3 miles south of the city. You can also use Washington Dulles International Airport and Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport. They are situated 26 and 30 miles away from the city respectively.

You can get direct flights to Washington DC to travel from several cities in Europe, North America, South America, Africa, Asia, and Australia. Some of the popular cities connecting to the US capital city include Montreal, Toronto, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Las Vegas, Miami, New Orleans, Chicago, New York, Pittsburgh, Charleston, Boston, Charlotte, Houston, Dublin, Moscow, Beijing, Paris, Delhi, Tokyo, Vienna, Bogota, London, Cairo, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Madrid, Reykjavik, Amsterdam, Seoul, Frankfurt, Doha, Jeddah, Riyadh, Copenhagen, Lisbon, Istanbul, Amman, and many more.

Thurgood Marshall has trains to reach Washington DC and all three of these airports have options for metro, buses, and cabs to get to the city.

By Road

The Amtrak route connects Washington DC to several cities in the United States of America. It falls on routes: Capitol Limited, Cardinal, Carolinian, Crescent, Palmetto, and Vermonter.

The bus network is far more widespread. You can get direct buses for Washington DC trip from several cities and towns in the USA.

If you are planning to reach Washington DC by road, you should head for routes I-95, I-395, I-495, I-270, I-70, I-66, or US-50.

By Water

There are no direct water routes to visit Washington DC.

Image Reference

The White House and Visitor Center – David Mark / PixaBay
Vietnam Veterans Memorial – David Seibold / Flickr
Lincoln Memorial – Jonathan Cutrer / Flickr
Korean War Veterans Memorial – Kārlis Dambrāns / Flickr
D.C. War Memorial – Tim Evanson / Flickr
Martin Luther King, Jr. National Memorial – Thomas Hawk / Flickr
Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial – osseous / Flickr
George Mason Memorial – TimothyJ / Flickr
Jefferson Memorial – 피어나네 / PixaBay
Washington Monument – David Mark / PixaBay
National World War II Memorial – David Mark / PixaBay
Smithsonian National Museum of American History – G. Edward Johnson / Wikimedia Commons
The Capitol – cytis / PixaBay
United States Botanic Garden – Domenico Convertini / Flickr
National Museum of the American Indian – Amaury Laporte / Flickr
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – Domenico Convertini / Flickr
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden – Thomas Hawk / Flickr
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – Domenico Convertini / Flickr
Madame Tussauds – Wknight94 / Wikimedia Commons
National Mall – David Mark / PixaBay
National Gallery of Art – Phil Roeder / Flickr
National Archives Museum – Ron Cogswell / Flickr
National Portrait Gallery – Bobak Ha’Eri / Wikimedia Commons
Smithsonian American Art Museum – Pedro Szekely / Flickr
Ford’s Theatre – Tim Evanson / Flickr
Petersen House – Billy Hathorn / Wikimedia Commons
International Spy Museum – Farragutful / Wikimedia Commons
National Building Museum – Phil Roeder / Flickr
National Postal Museum – Bill Stelzel / Flickr
The Supreme Court of the United States – Thomas Hawk / Flickr
Smithsonian National Museum of African Art – Ron Cogswell / Flickr
Freer Gallery of Art and Sackler Gallery (National Museum of Asian Art) – OZinOH / Flickr
Bureau of Engraving & Printing – Ted / Flickr
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum – xiquinhosilva / Flickr
Renwick Gallery of the Smithsonian American Art Museum – NCinDC / Flickr
Smithsonian National Zoological Park – John Brighenti / Flickr
National Geographic Museum – RightCowLeftCoast / Wikimedia Commons