bike tours of washington dc

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• Washington, DC

Influential and Inspiring

Washington, dc bike tours.

The White House, the Washington Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Mall - Washington DC is an absolutely unmissable sightseeing destination. The influence and significance of the US capital cannot be overstated, and taking a bike tour of this global seat of power is the best way to immerse yourself in its inestimable history.

The city of Washington DC was founded in 1791 along the banks of the Potomac River, with the first session of Congress held in 1800. Over the decades, there have been several unsuccessful efforts to make the city its own state - DC currently belongs to the District of Columbia. The city is home to the three branches of US federal government - Congress, the President, and the Supreme Court. As well as being of exceptional political importance, these sites are resplendent feats of architecture drawing millions to their elegant exteriors every year.

A guided, family-friendly bicycle tour in Washington DC, with the benefit of bike rental, can take in the National Mall, the Capitol, the Washington Monument, the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, and the memorials to Martin Luther King Jr, Franklin D. Roosevelt, John Paul Jones, and Paul Mason in a single day. Cycling to such sites of international prominence is a spine-tingling experience that'll leave you wonderstruck at Washington!

So take to the saddle for the tour of a lifetime, cycling to where Martin Luther King Jr gave his famous "I have a dream" speech and two centuries of presidents have taken their oath. With cherry blossom bike rides, sunset cycles, and a wealth of US history, wonderful discoveries await every traveler in Washington DC.

Washington, DC Bike Tours · 1 to 6 of 6

Washington DC Monuments & Memorials Bike Tour

Washington, DC · from $65 USD

Description: Washington DC’s historical significance as a city simply cannot be overstated. Take the bike tour that shows you why by taking you to the Washington Monument, National Mall, Tidal Basin, and the city's most magnificent memorials, with the added…

Alexandria Mount Vernon Bike & Boat Tour

Alexandria, VA · from $94.34 USD

Description: Discover the home of the first US President, George Washington, on a guided bike tour of his grand estate, with the added benefit of bike rental. Picturesque gardens, stables, and a home of inestimable history overlook placid blue waters, and you'll have…

Washington DC Monumental E-Bike Tour

Washington, DC · from $79.79 USD

Description: Washington DC’s historical significance as a city simply cannot be overstated. Take the leisurely e-bike tour that shows and tells you why by taking you to the Capitol, Washington Monument, Tidal Basin, National Mall, and the city's most famous…

Washington DC Best of Capitol Hill Bike Tour

Washington, DC · from $55 USD

Description: The bike tour that brings you square-on with the three branches of the US Government – witness the White House, cast your eyes on Congress, and see for yourself the grandeur of the Supreme Court. Your guide will fill you in on the monumental…

Washington DC Monuments at Night Bike Tour

Description: See Washington’s spectacular sights at sunset and under milky moonshine. This unmissable moonlit bike tour takes you to the Capitol, National Mall, Washington Monument, Tidal Basin, and the city's most magnificent memorials, with the added benefit…

Washington DC Blossoms Bike Tour

Description: Experience Washington bursting with color at its most beautiful time of the year! This unique day tour takes you biking amongst the blossoms, providing insight into the history of the Capitol, White House, National Mall and Washington Memorial, with the…

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17 Best Washington DC Bike Tours 2023

Are you looking for a new and unique way to see the nation’s capital ?  Washington DC bike tours are the perfect way to see the city as a family, couple, or small group. We’ve rounded up some of the best bike tours Washington DC has to offer.

When you are visiting Washington DC there are so many tour options.  Walking tours wear kids out quickly, bus tours can be a bore.  But bike tours give you the ability to see a lot of Washington DC while letting kids burn energy in a fun way.

During our family trip to Washington DC, we took a bike tour at the beginning of our stay.  It was one of the best things we did!  It was such a hit that we decided to do the same thing on our trip to London .  

Washington DC bike tours offer lots of options from electric bike upgrades to bike trailers and baby seats for young children.  My three-year-old had the best time riding with Daddy during our tour.

Let’s dive into the best Washington DC tours for families with bicycles!

Table of Contents

Best Washington DC Bicycle Tours

1. private family-friendly dc tour by bike.

Rating: 5/5

A private, customizable bike tour in Washington DC is the perfect fit for a large family or group of friends.  This bike tour offers hotel pick-up and drop-off, along with healthy snacks and water to make the bike experience even better.  Guests will see important sites such as the White House, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Capitol Building, and learn fun facts from your guide.

“This was our favorite activity during our time in DC. Jeff met us at our hotel and had great equipment. The route was perfect – we hit everything we expected and more. His narrative was spot on – educational and age-appropriate. Not only is he an excellent guide, he is a great photographer! I’m usually the one taking the pictures and now I have evidence I was on the trip.” Amanda C. (tripadvisor.com)

2. Private Customized DC Sights Biking Tour

This private bike tour is jam-packed with all the sites of Washington DC.  Your tour guide gives facts and information about memorials and monuments as well as the White House, the Capitol building, and the Smithsonian museums.  This tour is great for families and multigenerational groups, and customers rank this as one of the best bike tours of Washington DC.

“Jeff is an amazing tour guide. He kept all four kids of varying ages excited and engaged. He was chock full of interesting information at every sight. The tour was the highlight of our trip! I highly recommend Jeff and DC Cycling Concierge, you won’t be disappointed!” Wendy S (tripadvisor.com)

3. Private Group Monuments & Memorials Bike Tour

This private tour highlights the National Mall and Tidal Basin in the center of Washington DC.  Guests will learn fascinating facts about the Vietnam Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the World War II Memorial.  Your guide will share interesting details about the Jefferson Memorial and the Washington Monument as well.

For the seventeenth year in a row, the bike tour has been a highlight of my students’ week-long senior class trip to DC. We are already planning for next year. We had to make adjustments this year due to appointments with the White House and weather. The professionals made this happen with no headaches for me in my planning.” Gordon M (tripadvisor.com)

4. Private Endorphin Inducing Bike Road Ride

This private bike tour allows you to set the pace and endurance level for the day.  Guests can choose a more leisurely itinerary that takes in the historic sites of DC as well as the natural beauty outside the city.  Amp up the energy level with a 3-4 hour tour that goes into Virginia or Maryland.  More extreme 6-hour tours are available upon request.

“Met at my hotel. I was expecting a good ride out along the Potomac. I got that. What I wasn’t expecting was the fount of knowledge and the fascinating insights about the history of the places we passed. A pretty unique experience.” Martin (tripadvisor.com)

5. Washington DC: Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour

Rating: 4.7/5

Enjoy 3 hours of easy biking around the National Mall and Tidal Basin.  The Unlimited Biking guided bike tour of DC will stop at the most popular memorials including the Lincoln Memorial, the World War II Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Experience the Jefferson Memorial and learn about its history with your guide.

“Joe was the best tour guide. He looked out for both my kids (ages 8 and 11), was super knowledgeable, and had a wealth of fun tidbits about all the sights. Would definitely recommend to anyone, especially families if your children could bike that distance.” getyourguide.com

6. Bike Tour: Capitol Hill, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall

Rating: 4.5/5

This 2-hour guided bike tour covers 7 miles across the center of Washington DC. The tour includes all the highlights of DC: the White House, the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and more. Guests will learn the history and interesting facts about the many monuments around the National Mall and get a great introduction to the capital city.

”We had a great time on this tour. Our guide Joe was a wealth of knowledge and enthusiastic about showing us all he could in just two hours. It was apparent he loves DC and its history and lives to share it with others. Our group was about 13 people, all from different places. We had a family with middle school kids, several high school-aged kids, and adults. The tour route was manageable for everyone.” getyourguide.com

7. Washington DC: Best of Capitol Hill Guided Bike Tour

Rating: 4/5

This tour is perfect for political enthusiasts, government geeks, or those who want to learn more about civics.  This guided tour will take guests to all three branches of government including the Capitol and Supreme Court buildings, the Library of Congress, and the White House.

“Very good experience! My tour guide, Sam is humorous and very experienced. I really enjoyed this bike tour.” Yu Kyung (getyourguide.com)

E-bikes and Segway Tours

8. washington dc: e-bike tour of the national mall.

Rating: 4.8/5

Electric bikes allow tourists to see more and pedal less.  This Washington DC electric bike tour takes guests along the Tidal Basin, across the National Mall, and around the Capitol building and Smithsonian museums.  Learn fun facts and history during multiple stops at various memorials and monuments throughout the capital.

“We had a great day touring on the e-bikes with David and Joe! Both guys are prideful in the nation’s Capital and seemed to truly enjoy what they do!! We would absolutely recommend this excursion for any that want to get a general lay of the land!” Amy B (getyourguide.com)

9. Washington DC: See the City Segway Tour

Rating: 4.9/5

Seeing Washington DC by segway is a fun and unique way to learn about our nation’s capital.  Once you arrive, you will be trained on how to ride the segway, then you will zip off to see the top monuments, memorials, and historical sites.  Guests can see much more on a segway tour than on a walking tour.

“Excellent tour to get a quick overview of the National Mall. We were all new to Segway riding and got a good introduction and felt safe all along the tour. Great experience, rounded up by two nice guides who gave interesting info on DC and monuments, and excellent recommendation for dining.” Luxembourg traveler (getyourguide.com)

10. Washington DC: Sightseeing Segway Tour

After comprehensive training, guests will feel comfortable setting off on segways to see the National Mall and Capitol Hill.  Your guided tour will stop at monuments such as the Lincoln memorial and the White House to give interesting facts and detailed information about the nation’s capital.

“My daughter and I loved this tour! Our guide, “Joe” was fantastic! He was extremely knowledgeable in DC history and architecture. We took several of his advisements on where to go and what to do. He made sure all guests on the tour were carefully trained on Segway usage and looked after during the tour. It was fun, informative, and safe. I will bring friends next time.” (getyourguide.com)

Pro Travel Tip

Night Bike Tours Washington DC

11. private dc monuments at night biking tour.

Gear up for a nighttime adventure.  This private tour of Washington DC allows guests to see the monuments and memorials lit up in a unique way.  Your guide will take you to all the top historical sites of the nation’s capital. This customizable tour is great for family groups.  It is one of the most popular bicycle tours of Washington DC.

“We loved our bike tour with Jeff! Seeing all the sites on bikes is absolutely the best way to do it, and the personalized experience was exactly what we were hoping for. Jeff is incredibly knowledgeable about the area’s history, all the way up to modern times. He weaves in stories and anecdotes that would keep people of all ages engaged. Plus, with a small group size you can always hear what he’s saying (which is not always the case with large groups) and you can ask all the silly tourist questions you want. Our tour with Jeff was hands-down our favorite part of our very first trip to Washington DC.” Kallen M (tripadvisor.com)

12. Washington DC Monuments by Night Bike Tour

Enjoy the national monuments lit up at night and without the crowds.  Guests will cruise along the Tidal Basin and National Mall with a guide to give fun facts and detailed information about the historical sites of the city.

“We took our children ages 12 & 10. It was perfect for their ability level on bikes and much cooler than being out in the middle of the day. We were able to see all the monuments and learn about each one along the way. The entire family enjoyed this fun way to explore DC.” Jennifer (getyourguide.com)

Seasonal Tours

13. washington dc: cherry blossom festival tour by bike.

Explore Washington DC in all its glory during the National Cherry Blossom Festival.  This springtime event takes place from mid March to mid April, when the cherry tree blossoms are in full bloom.  This Washington DC monuments bike tour takes visitors for a scenic ride around the Tidal Basin and East Patomic Park as well as the capital’s top historical sites when spring flowers are at their peak.

“Very good. Loved seeing the blossoms and the monuments — especially the Roosevelt Monument, as I had not seen it before.” Terri (getyourguide.com)

Bike Tours Beyond DC

14. mount vernon: full-day bike and optional boat tour.

Rating: 4.2/5

This bike tour from Alexandria starts off in historic Old Town and is self-paced.  Guests take a leisurely ride along the Potomac River to George Washington’s home and plantation.  After exploring Mount Vernon guests can choose to take a scenic boat ride back to Alexandria or ride bikes back.  Alexandria is an easy metro ride on the blue line from Washington DC.

“From the beautiful, historic town of Alexandria, following level terrain along the Potomac river with some wooded sections with modest hills. This was a ride that we were able to do, even though my wife and I are aged 70, with histories of knee and hip surgeries, and our granddaughters ages 8 and 12. Ending with a tour of the home of George Washington and visit to the tomb of the first President and his wife. Finally, slow boat ride back to Alexandria within steps of our car. A fantastic trip.” Lee (getyourguide.com)

15. Alexandria, VA: Bike Rental

If you want to get out of the city and explore historic Old Town Alexandria and the surrounding areas on your own, choose a bike rental.  The bike rentals include maps of the area.  From there, you can decide to stay in town, hit the nature trails, or bike down to Mount Vernon, George Washington’s home, for the day.

“Was easy to reserve bikes on the website and by call. The employe was super friendly and prepared everything for us to hope on and go when we walked in. Nothing went wrong and prices were reasonable. I would highly recommend and definitely going back.” Gracieanne (google reviews)

Washington DC Bike Rentals

16. washington dc ebike rentals.

Rating: 3.5/5

Explore Washington DC in a unique way by electric bike.  See more of the city than when walking and if the ride gets tiring, you will have help with the e-bike.  This Washington DC bike rental allows you to choose the places you want to see that fit your interests without feeling exhausted at the end of the day.

 “We had a great time! Will definitely do it again next time we’re in DC. We were given very nice maps, directions and even suggestions for dinner.” Patrick (viator.com)

17. Washington DC Bike Rental

Touring Washington DC on your own can be an adventure.  When you rent bikes for the day, you can customize the route you take to fit your personal interests.  Employees are happy to offer ideas for the best bike routes around Washington DC.  Bike locks allow you to secure your bikes and enjoy lunch or explore the monuments and museums.

“Bike ride was the way to go! Everyone was so helpful here and the bikes worked perfectly. It was easy and the only way to see all the sight in a few hours.” Steven (viator.com)

Is Washington DC bike friendly?

Washington DC is very bike friendly.  With over 40 miles of bike lanes throughout the city, cyclists can easily and safely see all the top landmarks by bicycle.  The greater DC Metro area offers 800 miles of trails.  This offers a healthy and environmentally friendly way to explore the nation’s capital and beyond.

Is it safe to bike in Washington DC?

Cycling in Washington DC is a very safe activity as long as you follow the rules and pay attention.  Here are some safety tips for bike riding in Washington DC:

• Always wear a helmet
• Ride in the same direction as the traffic
• Use bike lanes whenever available
• Obey all traffic laws
• Yield to pedestrians
• Always lock your bike if you will be away from it

Conclusion: Best Washington DC Bike Tours

A Washington DC bike tour is a great activity for families, couples, or groups to get to know the center of DC.  After our family bike tour, we learned so much and had great memories that we still talk about today.  A bike tour of Washington DC allows you to see many of the monuments memorials and important sites that shape our American government.  

There are so many other places to see in Washington DC that it can be hard to choose what to fit into your trip.  Head on over to our Ultimate Washington DC Family Vacation Guide to learn about family-friendly restaurants and hotels, the best attractions for your kids’ ages (even playgrounds), and a free 3-day itinerary.

Recommended

Travel Helps

Everyone can use a little help when planning a family vacation. Here are some of my top recommendations to make your trip run smoothly and save you some money.

Travel Insurance

Travelex Insurance  – With over 55 years of experience protecting travel investments from the unknown, Travelex is a world leader in travel insurance. Their most popular features and benefits including trip cancellation, trip interruption, and bankruptcy and terrorism coverage. Travelex develops and delivers innovative insurance products and services at a competitive price, while delivering excellent service to our customers at all levels.

Attractions

Groupon  – Groupon is a great way to find discounts for things to do on vacation.  You can save money on fun activities for the whole family.  

Viator – Viator delivers online and mobile access to thousands of trip activities including tours, attractions, shore excursions and private guides, in more than 1,500 destinations worldwide.  I’ve used Viator for several family trips and they have all been great.  They offer great prices, which is great for a family on a budget, and they have 24/7 customer service, so they are available to help you out whenever you need.  

Cash-back app

Upside  – If you are on a road trip, make sure to download this free cash-back app.  Upside users earn up to 25¢/gallon cash back on gas, up to 45% cash back at restaurants, and up to 30% cash back at grocery stores. 

Hotels.com  – Hotels.com® offers more than 1,000,000 properties in 200 countries – from hotels and B&B’s to condos and all-inclusive resorts.  Earn free nights for every 10 nights booked with the Hotels.com Rewards program.  Find hotels during sold-out periods.  Book the perfect trip- backed by the Hotels.com Price Guarantee.

VRBO.com  is cost effective and comfortable for family travel.  You can customize the size, location, and budget of the accommodations for your next vacation.  With over 2 million vacation rentals you are set to find the perfect place for your family’s next adventure.

WayAway -WayAway provides travelers with the best rates on airline tickets and a WayAway Plus membership plan providing users with cash back on many travel services. It compares airfares offered by all major US and global airlines and agencies.

What’s your favorite thing to do in Washington DC?

Let me know in the comments below. If you found this helpful, don’t forget to Pin, Share, and Subscribe.

Kyleen Bontrager

Kyleen is a wife, homeschool mama, lover of teatime, and passionate traveler.  Having lived on 3 continents and visited +32 countries, she helps others enjoy memory-making experiences for multigenerational travel.  Ready for a bonnie adventure?   Let’s go!

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Best Bike Tours in Washington DC: See the City in Another Way

Exploring the enchanting streets and iconic landmarks of Washington, DC on a bike tour is an experience like no other. But with numerous companies offering bike tours in the capital city, how do you choose the best one?

Fear not, as we’ve curated a list of the top companies that provide exceptional bike tours in Washington, DC.

Get ready to pedal through history, immerse yourself in local culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. 🚲😄

Electric Tourz

📌 1117 10th Street Northwest Washington, DC 20001 ☎️ (202) 674-8272 (only texting) 🌐 https://electrictourz.com/

If you prefer an eco-friendly and effortless ride, Electric Tourz is the perfect choice. Their electric bike tours allow you to cruise through the city while enjoying the stunning views and landmarks.

Glide past the White House, pedal along the Potomac River, and discover hidden gems with the help of their experienced guides.

With Electric Tourz, you can cover more ground with ease and maximize your exploration of Washington, DC.

DC Insider Tours

📌 555 Massachusetts Avenue, Northwest Washington DC 20001 ☎️ (202) 810-4627 🌐 https://www.dcinsidertours.com/

Adding to the list of top-notch companies, DC Insider Tours offers unique and immersive bike tours that take you off the beaten path.

Their experienced guides provide insider knowledge and share hidden gems of the city, allowing you to explore local neighborhoods, discover lesser-known monuments, and experience the vibrant culture of Washington, DC.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, DC Insider Tours offers a fresh and captivating perspective.

Fat Tire Tours

📌 998 Maine Avenue, Southwest Washington, DC 20024 ☎️ (202) 842-2453 🌐 https://www.fattiretours.com/washington-dc/

If you’re seeking a combination of history, culture, and a touch of adventure, Fat Tire Tours is an excellent choice. Their Washington, DC bike tours take you on a journey through iconic sites while providing an entertaining and engaging narrative.

Glide through the National Mall, visit the White House, and marvel at the Lincoln Memorial, all while listening to fascinating stories from your experienced guide.

With their focus on small group sizes, Fat Tire Tours guarantees an intimate and personalized experience.

📌 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, Northwest Washington, DC 20004 ☎️ (202) 345-8065 (text or call) 🌐  https://www.dcpedicab.com/en

For a different kind of bike tour experience, hop aboard a pedicab with DC Pedicab. Sit back, relax, and let your knowledgeable pedicab driver take you on a leisurely ride through the city’s highlights.

Enjoy the open-air experience as you glide past iconic sites like the National Mall, the US Capitol, and the Smithsonian museums.

DC Pedicab offers a unique and comfortable way to explore the city while taking in the sights and sounds at a relaxed pace.

DC offers a multitude of companies that cater to bike tour enthusiasts, each providing a unique perspective on the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty. So grab a bike, join a tour, and let these exceptional companies guide you through the wonders of Washington, DC!

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THE 10 BEST Washington DC Bike Tours

Bike tours in washington dc.

• Equipment Hire
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Washington Monument
• White House
• Lincoln Memorial
• Jefferson Memorial
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour

2. Washington DC Sites at Night Guided Bicycle Tour

3. Monumental Electric Bike Tour

4. Washington DC Capital Sites Bike Tour

5. Private Family-Friendly DC Tour by Bike

6. Private Customized DC Sights Biking Tour

7. Visit Mount Vernon by Bike: Self-guided Ride with Optional Boat Cruise Return

8. Private DC Monuments at Night Biking Tour

9. D.C. Monuments Audio Tour and Trivia

10. 2 Hour Guided Bike Tour of Capitol Hill

11. Private Endorphin Inducing Bike Road Ride

12. Half-Day Private Guided Bike Tour in Washington

13. Private VIP Monuments & Memorials Bike Tour

14. Festival Of Lights Night Tour

15. Washington DC Cherry Blossoms By Bike Tour

Keep the fun going with other experiences in the area.

A Guided Walking Tour through Historic Old Town Alexandria

Haunted Old Town Alexandria Booze and Boos Ghost Walking Tour

Phantoms of Annapolis Ghost Tour By US Ghost Adventures

Fells Point Food Tour in Baltimore

Alexandria Ghosts Phantoms of the Potomac

Historic Annapolis Food Tour

Self-guided Waterfall Hiking Tour through Great Falls National Park

Baltimore Walking Foodie Tour in Fells Point

Alexandria Ghosts Ultimate Dead of Night Haunted Ghost Tour

A Walking Tour of Frederick, Maryland - The Crossroads of Maryland

Duke Street Black History Tour

Self Guided Walking Tour in Old Town Historic Alexandria

Baltimore Ghosts By US Ghost Adventures

Historical Fredericksburg SmartPhone App Self Guided Walking Tour

Freedom's Fight in Alexandria

What travellers are saying.

• Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour
• Washington DC Sites at Night Bike Tour
• Washington DC Capital Sites Bike Tour
• Monumental Electric Bike Tour
• Washington DC Cherry Blossoms By Bike Tour
• DC Insider Tours
• Electric Tourz - Not Your Average Tour
• Two Wheels DC
• Yamina Tours
• Discover DC Pedicab Tours
• DC Cycling Concierge
• Bike and Roll DC
• Unlimited Biking Washington DC
• Fat Tire Tours

DC Insider Tours

Washington dc tours by foot, e-bike, & private car, featured tours.

• Most Popular!
• Hour Glass 6 Hours
• Tags Walking Tour

DC in a Day

We take you by all the major sites and many, many more. And like all our DC tours, we jam-pack this one with those tiny, right-under-your-nose tidbits that make us famous.

• Winter Price $49
• Hour Glass 2 Hours
• Tags Electric Bike Tour

Full Throttle DC

Unlike our other tours, which focus on in-depth information, Full Throttle DC is all about the adventure! Once it gets dark, and the city empties out, we take to the streets!

• Winter Price $89
• Hour Glass 3.5 Hours

Highlight Reel

Highlight Reel is Washington, DC’s first electric bike tour. In three and a half hours, we rip through DC, visiting all four quadrants – NW, NE, SE, SW.

Choose by Category

Private chauffeured tours.

Learn More »

Small Group Electric Bike Tours

Small group walking tours, private museum tours, about dc insider tours.

DC Insider Tours is a luxury tour company that offers the opportunity to explore, uncover, and enjoy the rich history and heritage of Washington, D.C. Professional and knowledgeable guides lead all tours, and different types of experiences are available to suit every need, from private chauffeured tours to electric bike to walking and specialty tours.

Our DC tours have been known to sell out in advance, so book online today!

Meet Bo, Becca, and the E-Bikes!

Rated 5 Stars on TripAdvisor, Yelp, & Facebook!

I'm envious of you. If you are reading this you are very close to experiencing a glorious day with DC insiders. My rating of 5 stars is not accurate, I'm bucking this system. We did the DC in a day on wheels. It felt extravagant ( in a good way) , thorough and delightful. This tour is the whole enchilada. Thanks for making this day the highlight of our Mother & Daughter DC trip.

Dc tours from the minute we booked was fantastic at tailoring our itinerary to what we wanted to see. She even put together some great suggestions for us do to independently the next day. Dc tours is a company with real heart who want you to love the city as much as they do and we certainly do. We hope to return and wouldn’t hesitate using them, you can see why they are the number 1 tour company.

Incredible tour for our family. Bo efficiently communicated with us and helped plan the 6 hour tour for my husband and I and our four sons. Becca was our guide and she was amazing. She was so informative and was able to answer all our questions. Loved our day and could not recommend these guys more.

Look no further for a fun, entertaining and informative tour. I am a local and brought two out of town friends on this electric bike tour. We all enjoyed it so much and even the local learned some fun facts!! We were lucky enough to have our tour led by the high energy owner. His enthusiasm did not wane throughout the entire 3.5 hour tour! Highly recommend!

This was my first trip to DC and it was the if it were not for this tour I would not have seen as much of the city as I did. I plan on coming back and I will definitely do this tour again. The bikes were fun and easy and handle. The tour guide was very knowledgeable about the landmarks and the surrounding area. This is the best way to see DC.

Becca took care of everything! She was so accommodating to my small disabilities & the car was very comfortable. We covered so many stops over 6 hours. I still am processing the wonderful week we've had in D.C. I am 65 years old & never thought I'd make this trip.

I had been to DC many times in my life, but this trip with my 16 year old son was one of the best I’ve had because Bo was an amazing tour guide. The bikes were very easy to use and helped us to maximize our time to see as much as possible while tapping into Bo’s stories and narration of the monuments.

Unlimited Biking

Discover the most unique, dynamic and fun way to enjoy washington dc's historic monuments and architecture with a professionally guided bicycle or segway tour of dc..

Discover the most unique, dynamic and fun way to enjoy Washington DC's historic monuments and architecture with a professionally guided bicycle tour of DC. Choose between a bicycle tour or self-guided bike rental with helmets and bike locks provided. See our website for tour schedules as well as information on rentals and tours in Washington, DC and Old Town Alexandria, Virginia at www.unlimitedbiking.com/washington-dc .

• Foreign Language Guides

Additional Information

Service type.

FIT/Voucher Program, Multilingual Tours, Regular Scheduled Tours, Step On, Student Tours

Affiliation Discounts, Coupon Discounts, Membership Discounts, VIP Cards, Voucher Program, Military Discounts, Show Your Badge

Metro Station

L'Enfant Plaza

Payment Options

American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, Visa

998 Maine Ave. SW Washington , DC 20024 United States

(202) 842-2453, [email protected].

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Cherry Blossom Bike Tour of DC

Approximately 2 hours

From  $54

See the Cherry Blossoms in Bloom

We’re anticipating offering this tour from March 15th through April 12th, 2024, but check back for exact dates closer to the peak bloom announcement!

Ride among the pink cherry blossoms in Washington, D.C.!

Join us for a picturesque, leisurely bike tour during one of the best times in our nation’s capital; cherry blossom season. Every year from late March through early April, the National Park Services declare peak bloom times for DC’s cherry blossoms.  We’ve organized a tour during this peak time so that you can enjoy these beautiful trees in full bloom.

We’ll start out from our conveniently located office near the water and make our way towards the Tidal Basin, where the trees are in abundance.  You will have plenty of time to cycle, stop for photos, and take in the beauty as you simply enjoy your surroundings.  But our knowledgeable guide will also be sharing fun facts and a bit of DC history with you throughout the tour.  We’ll stop to hear about the Washington Monument, the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the National Mall and more.  This is the perfect quick fix for understanding more about DC while being surrounded by beauty.

We hope that you can join us for this breathtaking tour!

Tour Details

What’s included.

• Comfortable Bike
• Map of the area

Good to Know

• All tours run rain or shine
• All guests must be able to ride a bike on their own (unless on children’s attachments)
• Double trailers for toddlers, and tag-a-long attachments for young children are available at an additional cost upon request; please leave us a note in your booking if you would like to reserve one of these
• No guest under the age of 18 will be given a bike without and adult over the age of 18 present
• Please bring one government-issued photo ID to be retained as a deposit for all rental sand  credit card to be kept on file for the security of the bikes

• 1 The Cherry Blossoms
• 2 Washington Monument
• 3 Potomac Park
• 4 The Tidal Basin
• 5 The Jefferson Memorial

Meeting Point

All tours meet at our new location:  998 Maine Avenue SW Washington, DC 20024 .  The closest metro is the Waterfront Station (the Green line).  When exiting the station, walk west on Maine Street SW as it changes to Maine Avenue SW, along the Washington Channel, until you arrive at 998.  It’s approximately a 15-minute walk from the metro.

Frequently Asked Questions

Questions about our bikes/biking in washington, d.c., is a helmet included do i have to wear a helmet.

Yes, helmets are provided and we require all riders to wear helmets on our tours.

Your safety is top priority for us and studies have shown that helmets can reduce head injuries by at least 85%.

Is this tour appropriate for children?

Absolutely! We have tons of families as we’re a great family activity. We have 4 options for children depending on their age, size, and riding ability:

For children weighing up to 65lbs (30kg), we have trailers that can be left open or zipped up to fully enclose the passenger. For children up to 12 years old or 100lbs (45kg), we have 2 wheeled tandem trailers. The passenger sits on a seat and can pedal or coast. All riders over 100lbs (45kg) must ride their own bicycle. We have various smaller sized mountain bikes for those able to ride on their own, and of course, our regular beach cruisers for children big enough to ride them. Unfortunately, we do not have any adult tricycles or bikes with training wheels for adults that may be less confident in their riding ability. If possible, please let us know if you would like one of our tandems, trailers, or child bikes in advance that you’d like to reserve either a trailer. Please Note: All child bikes use hand brakes. There are no pedal brakes available.

If I am pregnant can I join the tour?

Unfortunately, due to the risk to both child and mother, pregnant women are not allowed to participate on our bike tours.

Do we ride bikes in the streets or on sidewalks?

Most of our tours ride in wide bike/pedestrian paths, but we do occasionally ride in the street depending on the tour.

We carefully designed each tour route with safety as the top priority. Whether on the street, bike lane, or pedestrian path, you always have a tour guide who is an expert and safely maneuvering your group around the city.

General Tour Questions

Where is the meeting point.

All tours meet at 998 Maine Avenue SW Washington, DC 20024. The closest metro is the Waterfront Station (the Green line). When exiting the station, walk west on Maine Street SW as it changes to Maine Avenue SW, along the Washington Channel, until you arrive at 998. Our office is approximately a 15-minute walk from the metro.

Are reservations required?

Yes, reservations are required for all tours.

What is your cancellation policy?

We’re happy to offer free changes and 100% refund up to 24 hours before tour* Failure to cancel a reservation  at least 24 hours prior to scheduled departure  may result in forfeited travel funds. Fare difference may apply.

*See restrictions here

Is this tour offered in any other languages, or only English?

All scheduled tours are in English, but  private tours  can sometimes be scheduled in other languages, given we have a tour guide who speaks the language of your choice.

Do we go inside the museums and monuments?

We do reserve time to walk around some memorials on tour, however our bike tours are designed to enjoy the city from a broad perspective so that’s what we’re going to do!

Unfortunately, we cannot enter the museums due to time constraints on this tour. Additionally, there’s always some people that want 10 minutes in the Smithsonian’s and others that want 3 hours.

How many people will be in my group?

We limit group sizes to 15 guests per guide.  Larger groups will be split into two.  For larger parties, please inquire about a private tour at [email protected].

How long before my tour should I arrive?

The tour meeting time is 15 minutes prior to the start time. No refunds or re-bookings can be provided for late arrivals or no-shows after tour commencement or departure.

What is your weather policy?

All of our tours operate rain or shine, and we have rain ponchos available in our office for purchase.

What is included with a tour?

Along with one of our phenomenal tour guides, every guest will receive a bike and a helmet.

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Explore our preferred partners around the world.

Unlimited Biking

Unlimited Biking, the nation's largest bike rental, bike tour and experiences company, now has a location in Washington, DC. Unlimited Biking offers rentals of bicycles, e-bikes, racing bikes, wheelchairs, and rollerblades, as well as DC's highest rated guided bicycle and Segway tours every day from 9am-7pm from their shop at  998 Maine Avenue SW .

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Do It All on the Waterfront

Whether you like to be on the Potomac or prefer the sparkling views from land, The Wharf offers ample things to do and ways to enjoy the water. Dine in one of our fabulous restaurants. Browse our shops. Or join us during one of our festivals. Take a look at our upcoming events to plan your next visit.

17 Best Things To Do In Washington DC At Night

T here are many great things to do in Washington DC at night. From admiring the beautifully lit historic monuments at the National Mall to taking a fun dinner cruise down the Potomac River, there is something for everyone in Washington DC.

Since I live next door to Washington DC in Maryland, my family and I head over to Washington DC quite often. There is just so much to do in Washington DC, even at night time.

However, the large number of options of things to do in DC can make planning a trip seem a bit overwhelming. Therefore, I have included a list below of the best 17 family-friendly activities for Washington DC at night.

Things To Do In Washington DC At Night

There are so many interesting things to do in Washington DC. As America’s capital, it is full of fantastic museums, historic monuments, beautiful sights, which is in definitely one of the pros of living in Washington, DC .

For some of the top things to do, check out this list of the 17 best family-friendly things to do in Washington DC at night.

17 Best Family-Friendly Washington DC at Night

1. take the old town trolley monuments by night tour.

One of the best things to do in Washington DC at night is to take a ride on a fun, state-of-the-art Trolley with Old Town Trolley Tours. Their nighttime tour, Monuments by Moonlight, is an incredible tour that provides the opportunity to view all of the best historical sights in Washington DC at night. 

Admire the lit-up monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Two Jima Marines Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and more all while your guide tells you more about the historical significance and interesting stories about Washington DC.

This tour is a perfect way to see Washington DC at night and is a great family-friendly option.

Tours last for two and a half hours and depart daily at 6:30 pm in the winter (November-March) and at 7:30 pm in the summer (March-November). You can board the tour at Union Station or at The Washington Welcome Center.

Adult tickets are $84.95 and tickets for children between ages 4-12 are $38.95, and those under age 4 are free.

2. Experience a Night at the Museum with Smithsonian Nighttime Adventures

Smithsonian nighttime adventure is a special event designed just for kids! During this Night at the Museum-themed event, kids will have the opportunity to join fellow adventurers in exploring one of the world’s most popular museums, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. 

This event is aimed at learning more about Earth’s past, discovering the ocean’s aquatic wonders, blasting off to the moon, visiting pollinators, and seeing mysterious mammals.

Fun-filled activities include participating in games, challenges, creating fun arts and crafts, and more.

The Smithsonian Nighttime Adventures events are run on select days which are listed on the museum website. The event is for kids between the ages of 8-14 years old, and each group of up to 5 kids must have at least one adult chaperone.

The event hours are from 7 pm – 11 pm, and tickets cost $85 per person. 

3. Ride Around on a Washington DC Sights at Night Bike Tour

Washington DC is an exciting place to visit at night, with all of its monuments lit up. A bike tour is a perfect way to experience the National Mall of Washington DC at night.

This is a great option for active families, that are looking to get some good exercise while seeing all of the sights in DC.

This 3-hour bike tour takes you on a guided 4-mile tour to show you the DC highlights such as the White House, the Vietnam War Memorial, Jefferson, Lincoln, and WWII memorials, and more.

The tour includes a bike rental, helmet, reflective safety vest, and a guide. Tours run daily, starting at 6:30 pm. Adult tickets are $54 and children’s tickets are $49.

4. Watch the Sunset from the Washington Monument

One of the best free things to do in Washington DC at night is to watch the beautiful sunset. One of the best places in Washington DC to get unique sunset views is from the Washington Monument.

Seeing the sunset behind the tall, impressive monument is an incredible experience, and makes for some great photos from DC.

5. Ride the Capital Wheel

Enjoy breathtaking views over Washington DC as you ride the Capital Wheel. This popular Ferris wheel takes you up to 180 feet above the Potomac River, which will give you the most incredible views of Washington DC.

This is a fun-filled and exciting evening activity that is perfect for families.

Due to its climate-controlled gondolas, the Capital Wheel is open year-round and provides a comfortable, yet exhilarating Ferris wheel ride. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 4 pm to 10 pm, and Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm.

Adult admission is $15, and children’s admission is $11.25.

6. Take an Evening Electric Cart Tour

Taking an Electric Cart Tour is the perfect way to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights while your guide explains more about the important Washington DC monuments and tells fascinating stories.

The electric cart is a 7-person, sustainable electric vehicle, making it the perfect way to explore Washington DC at night in a small group.

The 2-hour Moonlight Electric Cart Tour will take you to the highlights of Washington DC, such as Capitol Hill, the White House, and other famous DC landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and WWII, Korean, and Vietnam War memorials.

Tours run daily from 8 pm and start from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Adult and children’s tickets are both $85.

7. Catch a Game at Nationals Park

Nationals Park is the baseball field that is home to the Major League Baseball team in DC, the Washington Nationals. Enjoy a true American pastime in Washington DC by cheering on the baseball team and enjoying a delicious hot dog. Evening games happen throughout the season and are a great way to enjoy DC at night. 

There are also a variety of other events, such as concerts that are held throughout the year at Nationals Park. For more information on upcoming events and home games, make sure to check out their website.

8. Experience the Sights on a Moonlight Tour of Washington DC

If you are looking for a tour that will take you to the famous monuments, but also allows you to stop and admire the sights, this Moonlight Washington DC Tour is a perfect choice.

This 3-hour tour includes pick up and drop off from nearby Washinton DC hotels and then will take you on a 3-hour, guided tour to all the major sites.

One of the best parts about doing an evening tour is that the monuments and sights are much less crowded at night compared to during the daytime. It is also a unique and fun experience to see Washington DC lit up at night.

This tour will take you to places like the US Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Pentagon, Arlington Cemetery, and the National Archives. 

This is a perfect option for families with older children that are interested in seeing Washington DC and learning more about the sights. Tours run daily from 7:30 pm. Adult tickets are $62 and children’s tickets are $39.

9. Watch an Outdoor Movie at Sunset Cinema

If you are visiting Washington DC in the summer months, head over to the Transit Pier at The Wharf on Thursday nights to enjoy some delicious popcorn and watch a movie at sunset. 

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there is a family-friendly movie shown every Thursday at 7:30 pm. Some of the movies shown include Jungle Cruise, Mamma Mia, Forest Gump, A Dogs Purpose, and more.

It is a great way to relax after spending the day in Washington DC, and the best part is that admission is completely free. There are also several food options nearby, making it a great spot to spend a summer evening.

10. Take a Dinner Cruise

Enjoy an evening out on the Potomac River aboard a dinner cruise. A dinner cruise will take you down the picturesque river past sites like the Washington Monument, National Harbor, Old Town Alexandria, and other iconic D.C. sights.

Enjoy a delicious dinner and music, which make for the perfect evening for the whole family.

11. Admire the Holiday Lights at the National Zoo

If you are visiting during the holiday season, make sure to check out the ZooLights Event at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. This family-friendly event includes lots of beautiful light displays that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland.

There is plenty of live music, hot chocolate, and sweet treats to be enjoyed at this magical holiday event.

The ZooLights event runs every weekend from the end of November through the end of December from 5 pm-9 pm. Admission to the event is free, but you need to reserve your spot online ahead of time. There is also a $30 parking fee.

12. Check Out the Marine Corps Sunset Parade

Every Tuesday evening during the summer, the Marine Corps hosts a sunset parade at the National Mall at 7 pm. The parade has been held every summer since 1956 and includes marching to musical numbers. It is an interesting and free experience to go to in Washington DC at night with kids.

13. Solve Puzzles at an Escape Room

Escape rooms are a fun, family-friendly activity that involves solving a series of puzzles to escape the room. There are many different themes of escape rooms, as well as different levels, from beginner to expert.

This type of activity is perfect for older kids and families, as you have to work together to solve the mystery within 60 minutes.

There are several Escape Room locations in Maryland and the Washington DC area, but some highly rated ones to check out include The Escape Game DC, Beat the Bomb DC, and Escape the Room DC.

14. Immerse in the Art at the ARTECHOUSE DC

The ARTECHOUSE is a unique, immersive art experience. The experience is for 1 hour and will guide you through illuminated rooms that have various themes. This is a cool experience, especially for art enthusiasts. It is also one of our top things to do when you only have 4 days to spend in DC.

The ARTECHOUSE DC is open daily from 10 am until 10 pm. Admission is $25 for adults, $17 for children ages 4-17, and free for children under the age of 4.

15. Enjoy Dinner along the Georgetown Waterfront

The Georgetown Waterfront is located on the Potomac River and is the perfect place to enjoy a nice dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants. In the summer, it is also a great place to take an evening walk, and enjoy some delicious ice cream or other sweet treats!

16. See a Show at the Historic Ford Theatre

Ford’s Theatre is a historically significant site in Washington DC. The theatre reopened in 1968 and celebrates the life of Abraham Lincoln. Today, you can go on a historical tour of the theatre, or watch one of the plays that are held throughout the year.

17. Experience the Circus at UniverSoul Circus

UniverSoul Circus is an exciting circus-themed show. The show contains a variety of impressive acrobatic performances that are sure to wow you. Shows take place Thursday through Sunday with both daytime and evening performances.

Tickets are $27 for both children and adults.

FAQs on Things to Do in DC at Night

What do people do at night in dc.

There are lots of fun things to do in DC at night. A few great ones include enjoying a bike tour at night, Dinner cruise, DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart and a lot more.

Can you walk around DC at night?

Yes, you can walk around Washington D.C. at night. The city is generally safe for pedestrians, and many popular areas are well-lit and have a noticeable police presence, especially in the tourist and downtown areas.

However like everywhere else, stay safe and be aware of your surroundings.

Can you visit the Washington Monument at night?

No, you cannot visit the Washington Monument at night. The monument is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily, except for July 4 and December 25. The last tour begins at 4:30 pm.

Conclusion: The Best Things to Do in Washington DC at Night

Washington DC has so many things to do at night, including many kid-friendly activities. Kids will love riding the Capital Ferris Wheel or experiencing the Nighttime Adventures at the Smithsonian Museum.

Sports fans can catch a game at the Nationals Park while art enthusiasts can explore the immersive art exhibits of ARTECHOUSE DC.

There are also great family activities like watching an outdoor movie at sunset or solving puzzles in an escape room. Washington DC has so many activities to choose from that there will be something for everyone.

The post 17 Best Things To Do In Washington DC At Night appeared first on Deyewa .

The Weekend Scene: Visit embassy open houses, Sligo Creek Fest and more in the DC area

Embassy tours, kentucky derby parties and cinco de mayo fiestas will fill up your weekend in the d.c. area., by sophia barnes and tommy mcfly, news4 scene reporter • published may 3, 2024 • updated on may 3, 2024 at 12:03 pm, subscribe to the weekend scene newsletter to get our picks delivered straight to your inbox — every wednesday.

Editor's Note: The Running of the Chihuahuas at The Wharf has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 19 due to the weather.

We’re back at work/school, but D.C. is in full spring break mode… just in case you weren’t tipped off by a student tour group using every single fork at Nando’s (unfortunately, a true story).

But if your PTO is lagging your wanderlust, never fear. Embassy tours, Derby parties and Cinco de Mayo fiestas are more than enough for a super fun staycation this weekend (despite some rain in the forecast. Check with any outdoor events before you go!).

We're making it easier for you to find stories that matter with our new newsletter — The 4Front. Sign up here and get news that is important for you to your inbox.

It’s like your parents used to say… We have spring break at home!

Weekend highlights

Free pick Around the World Embassy Tour Sat., 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 🔗 Details

You can go around the world in a day – without a passport – when dozens of embassies open their doors to the public this Saturday and next.

Tommy visited the Embassy of Trinidad and Tobago, just one place going all-out for the tour with soca dancing, steel drums and carnival vibes during the Around the World Embassy Tour.

“As you walk in, you’ll feel the natural warmth of the Caribbean,” Joan Bremmer, the embassy’s senior officer, said.

Countries from Angola to Zambia will share music, dance, kid-friendly crafts and cuisine. You can find a list of each embassy’s offerings here (Click “Embassy Activities”). Here’s a map showing all the locations.

Take a peek at The Weekend Scene newsletter for pro tips for a full day of globe-trotting.

• Next up: The EU Open House on Saturday, May 11, is when you can check in on your favorite European Union countries.

Fiesta for Cinco de Mayo with racing chihuahuas, a margarita bike, music and more around DC

Don your fanciest hat for these Kentucky Derby events around DC

Free pick National Cathedral Flower Mart Fri., 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., National Cathedral in Northwest D.C. 🔗  Details

In addition to the showstopping International Floral Display and the huge plant sale, Flower Mart visitors can ride an antique carousel, watch free performances and climb the cathedral’s skyscraping towers. Activities for kids and food vendors will be on-site.

International City Food Festival Fri., 4-9 p.m. and Sat., 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., The Square (1875 I St NW, Washington, D.C.), free admission 🔗  Details

Celebrating how food brings people together, this festival is set to present performances, crafts and vendors from around the world inside the downtown food hall.

Sligo Creek Fest Sat., 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Silver Spring, Maryland, free 🔗 Details

Montgomery County is trying something new. A stretch of Sligo Creek Parkway is going to the walkers, bikers, boarders and dogs (as long as they're leashed) for an outdoor festival!

From Dennis Avenue to University Boulevard, you'll find a stage with live music, kids' performances, food trucks, a beer tent featuring local breweries and hands-on activities.

RESCHEDULED: Running of the Chihuahuas 🔗 Details

Note that this even has been rescheduled to Sunday, May 19.

Concerts this weekend

Bad Moves, 8 p.m. Friday, Songbyrd, $15/$18

Single release show for four D.C. punk veterans who got together almost a decade ago to make incredibly infectious power pop. Details.

Chastity Belt, 8 p.m. Saturday, Black Cat, $20

Indie rockers are touring in support of their fifth LP, “Live Laugh Love.” Over the past decade-plus, they’ve moved away from tongue-in-cheek feminist wit to more serious and introspective songwriting that’s more subdued and quieter, as rock bands often tend to as they age. Details.

Owen, 8 p.m. Saturday, Songbyrd, $15/$18

Intimate solo project of Mike Kinsella, veteran of emo legends Cap’n Jazz and American Football. Maryland’s guitar-godly, post-hardcore band Spring Silver opens. Details.

Things to do in D.C.

Smithsonian Craft Show Weds. to Sun., National Building Museum, $20 for general admission

MVT20 festival Sat., 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., 600 block of K Street NW, free

Nationals STAR WARS™ Weekend Fri., Sat. and Sun. Friday night fireworks

Ballpark Boathouse kayaking season set to begin Fri., Navy Yard

NGA First Saturdays Sat., National Gallery of Art, free

Adams Morgan Spring PorchFest Sat., 2-6 p.m., 18th Street NW, free entry

Things to do in Maryland

City of College Park Parade Sat., 10 a.m., begins at Hollywood Shopping Center on Rhode Island Avenue, free

"May the Fourth Be With You" Star Wars movie festival Sat., BlackRock Center for the Arts in Germantown, $10 per ticket

Things to do in Virginia

Quantico 14th Annual International Wine & Food Festival Fri., 4-8 p.m., The Clubs at Quantico, $50 FYI: Check Marine Base Quantico access rules 

Revolutionary War Weekend Sat. and Sun., George Washington’s Mount Vernon, $22 (youth)/$35 (adults)

Run the Greenway Sat., Loudoun Station, $25-$65 (free for kids 4 and under)

Rosslyn Reads Book Festival Sat., 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Central Place Plaza (1800 N Lynn St.), free

Alexandria Art Show and Craft Spring Fair Sat., 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., John Carlyle Square Park in Alexandria, free entry

NVA Thai Street Food & Culture Festival Sun., The Manassas Museum, free entry

Want to know what's up for your weekend? Sign up for The Weekend Scene , our newsletter about events, experiences and adventures for you and for your family around the DMV.

This article tagged under:

The 32 best things to do in D.C. this weekend and next week

More than 80 bands perform outdoors in Adams Morgan, and Washington National Cathedral is in bloom during Flower Mart.

This weekend seems to cover all the bases. Love live music? See 80 bands during Adams Morgan PorchFest. Love tacos? It’s Cinco de Mayo, with specials at bars and restaurants. Fan of “Star Wars”? Participate in trivia and lightsaber battles, or watch the movies on May the Fourth. Have a green thumb? Washington National Cathedral’s Flower Mart brings plant vendors, floral arrangements and family entertainment. Curious about all those embassies you pass during your commute? Sixty are opening their doors to the public Saturday. Enjoy a fancy hat or mint julep? It’s Kentucky Derby weekend. Enjoy spending a warm night watching films under the stars? Outdoor movies are back at National Harbor. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg.

We have separate guides to making the most of the Around the World Embassy Tour and where to watch the Kentucky Derby , so we’re not going to go in depth about those in this column.

Editor’s note : The threat of rain on Saturday has led to the postponement of events, including the Running of the Chihuahuas at the Wharf. Check websites or social media before making plans.

Thursday, May 2

Movies on the Potomac at National Harbor

Outdoor movie season comes roaring back this month, starting with one of the biggest series in the area. Movies on the Potomac takes over the plaza at National Harbor on Thursdays and Sundays through the end of September, with movies shown on a giant 18-by-32-foot LED screen in front of the Capital Wheel and the Wilson Bridge. Thursdays are “Date Nights,” with movies such as “What About Bob” (Thursday), “Titanic” (May 9) and “Aquaman and the Lost Kingdom” (May 23). Sundays are for family fare, like “Moana” (Sunday) and “Lilo & Stitch” (May 19). Bring blankets or low lawn chairs, and pick up takeout from a nearby restaurant, such as Bombay Street Food or Mason’s Famous Lobster Rolls. Thursday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m., through Sept. 29. Free.

‘Star Wars’ Trivia at Atlas Brew Works

You might know that Star Wars Day is May 4 (May the fourth be with you, and whatnot) and that a new series (“Star Wars: Tales of the Empire”) is dropping in celebration. But did you know it took three hours to film the first opening crawl or that the Yoda voice actor also voiced Miss Piggy? Test your knowledge of the franchise at Atlas Brew Works’ trivia night, where the winning team will receive a $50 Atlas gift card and $5 core pints are offered until 10 p.m. 7 to 9 p.m. Free.

Smithsonian Craft Show at the National Building Museum

The theme of this year’s Smithsonian Craft Show is “Celebrating Joy,” and any artful items you purchase are sure to spark joy, Marie Kondo-style. For four days, 120 artists set up shop inside the National Building Museum, showing and selling an incredible variety of merchandise: painted silk jackets, built-by-hand ostrich leather Western boots, the most beautiful brooms and dustpans you didn’t know you needed. Whether you’re in the mood to buy or just look, the 42nd annual Smithsonian Craft Show spotlights skilled artisans from across the country. Through Sunday. $20 .

Experimental Cocktail Night at Lapop

Lapis is renowned for its Afghan food. The Adams Morgan restaurant’s basement cocktail bar, Lapop, incorporates some of those spices and flavors into its drinks during its Experimental Cocktail Night series. This time, Lapop is working with D.C. amaro maker Don Ciccio & Figli to infuse its Italian-style liqueurs with saffron and sumac, and pair them with fruits such as cantaloupe and mangos. (Guests get to sample the “regular” versions of Don Ciccio spirits, too.) Making a reservation costs $5, which gets you a table for two hours, a welcome drink and the samples, and all cocktails are purchased a la carte. 5 to 11 p.m. $5 .

Utica Queen at Pitchers

Utica Queen wiggled her way to sixth place on the 13th season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race,” but Utica’s outrageous couture style made her a firm fan favorite. Find out what she’ll wear to the next edition of Pitchers’ Thirst Trap Thursday, which starts with a free meet-and-greet session and includes a drag show hosted by Cake Pop. Meet-and-greet at 9 p.m., show at 10. Free.

Friday, May 3

Flower Mart at Washington National Cathedral

You don’t have to be a gardener to enjoy Flower Mart, the largest annual fundraiser for Washington National Cathedral’s gardens and grounds. This spring tradition, dating back to 1939, includes free entertainment from musicians, dance troupes and choral groups; activities for children, including carnival rides and an antique carousel; treasure hunting at the White Elephant Tent; food stalls offering lobster rolls and funnel cakes; floral displays created by embassies in the cathedral’s nave; and a chance to climb to the top of the cathedral’s towers. The front lawn is set up as a Flower District with vendors selling plants, herbs, bonsai, orchids, cut blooms and flower arrangements. Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free entry, with charges for games, rides and the tower climb.

Perchfest at the Perch

An urban park atop a suburban performing arts hall? Welcome to the Perch, which is the hottest hangout in Tysons, if recent visits have been anything to go by. Parents, happy hour work gatherings and couples with dogs all share the sprawling 2½-acre park, which is home to an 18-hole mini golf course, Starr Hill’s beer garden, an amphitheater for cover bands, a dog park, a game area with cornhole and giant chess, and a food truck court. Get a taste of all it offers during Perchfest, which brings multiple bands, a pie-eating contest, exercise classes, a 1980s and ’90s dance party, and a market of local makers 11 stories above street level. Friday from 6 to 11 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free; donations to Miriam’s Kitchen encouraged .

Capital Rare Book Fair at the University Club

Explore thousands of rare books, historic documents and maps, from an inscribed copy of John F. Kennedy’s “Profiles in Courage: Decisive Moments in the Lives of Celebrated Americans” to George Washington’s “Justice and Public Good” letter, plus books by Charles Dickens and Jane Austen that will go for tens of thousands each. The fair kicks off with a reception Friday evening (that ticket price of $50 includes access for the whole weekend) and features speakers like YA author Christy Cashman and royal family biographer Hugo Vickers. Friday from 5 to 8:30 p.m., Saturday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. $10-$50.

Star Wars Day celebrations

The unofficial Star Wars holiday of May 4 brings events across the district — the largest being Star Wars Weekend at Barracks Row. It consists of two days of franchise-themed parties, drink and food specials, and entertainment from participating establishments, plus a Jedi lightsaber parade. Costumes are encouraged ( Friday and Saturday; free ). Also on Friday, AFI Silver Theatre and Cultural Center kicks off screenings of the original trilogy ( times vary, through May 9; $10-$13 ).

‘Good Fortunes’ art installation at the Heurich House Museum

The new art installation at the historic Dupont Circle house and beer garden asks the question, “Who gets to be a visionary?” The response comes from artist Xena Ni, whose interactive exhibit is a “portal to the future.” It’s the second installment of the “We Should Talk” series, which explores futures imagined by Asian American artists including Philippa Pham Hughes and Adele Yiseol Kenworthy. Through May 31. Free.

Cansei de Ser Sexy at the Black Cat

Pop music in 2003, when the band Cansei de Ser Sexy was formed in São Paulo by a group of friends, was marked by a particular turn-of-the-millennium vibe: glittery, bright, experimental and expressive, defined by DIY ethics and not a small note of debauchery. The moment was fleeting. And Cansei de Ser Sexy’s lead singer, Lovefoxxx, assumed the band’s existence would be similarly brief — but after an 11-year hiatus, the quartet is back with a reunion tour (featuring hits like “Music Is My Hot, Hot Sex”) that kicks off at the Black Cat. 8 p.m. $30-$35.

Saturday, May 4

Around the World Embassy Tours

Dozens of countries from Albania to Zambia host open houses during the annual Around the World Embassy Tour, one of those “only in Washington” events you’ll tell friends and relatives about. How often do you have the chance to tour the British ambassador’s residence and the embassy’s gardens, watch a K-pop performance at the Korean Cultural Center, sample rum at the Embassy of Guyana, listen to Indigenous music at the Australian Embassy or enjoy traditional cuisine at the Embassy of Thailand? It’s a busy day, so start planning now, and read our tips on how to make the most of the festivities. 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Free; some embassies may charge for food and drinks.

Running of the Chihuahuas at the Wharf

Update : Due to the threat of inclement weather, this event has been postponed and is now scheduled for Sunday, May 19. The Wharf’s quirky combination of the Kentucky Derby and Cinco de Mayo is back for the 12th year: The annual Running of the Chihuahuas involves more than 100 of these tiny dogs sprinting in groups of eight on a 60-foot “racetrack.” One Chihuahua eventually emerges as the fastest of the pack, winning $100 cash and swag during this bracket-style tournament. Only Chihuahuas can race, but dogs of all types can enter an all-breed dog costume contest, while human spectators enjoy the Pacifico Beer Garden, a DJ, a pet photo booth and an adoptable-dog parade. This event is very popular: Arrive early for the best views of the track, or watch on a giant video projection screen. 2 to 5 p.m. Free admission. All spots for racing Chihuahuas are filled .

Adams Morgan PorchFest

On the heels of last weekend’s Petworth PorchFest, Adams Morgan is getting in on the fun with its own Adams Morgan Spring PorchFest. (The neighborhood also hosts a festival in the fall.) More than 80 bands are taking over 20 locations, turning front porches, parks, patios and the Marie Reed school plaza into stages for performances, and closing 18th Street NW between Columbia and Kalorama roads to make even more room for crowds. A map of stages and schedule of bands is available on the PorchFest website . Beyond the music, dozens of businesses are offering specials throughout the day, such as buy one, get one free lunchboxes at City Lights of China, free dog treats at Life of Riley, and $5 draft beers and house wines at Roofers Union. Pick up a wristband at one of the main stages to take advantage of discounts. 2 to 6 p.m. Free .

Kentucky Derby viewing parties

No one goes to a Kentucky Derby party to watch the horses. Okay, maybe a few people do — if they’ve got a bet on the race. But the Kentucky Derby is known as “the fastest two minutes in sports” for a reason. Fierceness, Sierra Leone and the other contenders will be on the track at Churchill Downs for mere minutes, while parties stretch for hours before and after. Instead, this weekend is all about the rituals of the first Saturday in May: elaborate hats, bright floral dresses, seersucker suits and mint juleps. Whether you want a rooftop party with passed hors d’oeuvres and a special bourbon cocktail menu (Jack Rose), a rooftop party with adult hobby horse races and a fancy hat contest (Hi-Lawn), a party with $5 Old-Fashioneds and $2 Jim Beam jello shots (Last Call) or an all-you-can-eat pig roast (American Ice Company), there are options in our guide to Kentucky Derby parties . Reminder: Post time is 6:57 p.m.

Anacostia River Festival

The final event of the National Cherry Blossom Festival — no, really — fills Anacostia Park with music and activities. Entertainment comes from go-go titans Junkyard Band, R&B singer Adamare, the U.S. Navy Band and the Anacostia High School Band. Learn how to fish with the D.C. Department of Energy and Environment, play lawn games, browse art exhibitions, or volunteer to help clean the park and the river. The 11th Street Bridge Park sponsors a Southeast Market with local vendors including fashion by the Museum and beauty products from Black Bella Spa. 1 to 5 p.m. for main activities; market until 6 p.m. Free .

Baltimore Kinetic Sculpture Race

A tribute to John Waters (covered in flamingos, naturally), a 35-foot-long crocodile and a “monumental rubber duckie” named Tail-or-Swiftie are among the giant pieces of art competing in this year’s Kinetic Sculpture Race around Baltimore’s Inner Harbor. Sponsored by the American Visionary Art Museum since 1999, the race takes over the streets of Charm City every May, with two dozen human-propelled sculptures moving through downtown and plunging into the harbor itself before taking on an obstacle course in Patterson Park. (Canton Waterfront Park, where the sculptures prove their buoyancy, is one of the most popular viewing areas; check the annual spectators’ guide for other options.) The 15-mile course begins and ends at the Visionary Art Museum in Federal Hill, where it’s followed by an awards ceremony and race recap. This is one event that’s definitely worth the day trip. Opening ceremony at 9:30 a.m.; awards ceremony at 6 p.m. Free .

Build Day at the Hirshhorn Museum

Kids 12 and younger are invited to the Hirshhorn Plaza for a midday, hands-on exploration of building and design. Budding architects can tour a city design exhibition featuring artwork by DCPS elementary students, make LED sculptures, see student-made 3D-printed building reproductions from George Washington University’s Fab Lab, and construct 3D structures from blocks, bricks and more at maker stations. Stroller parking will be available in the lobby and lower level. 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Free.

Saturday is actually May the Fourth, and celebrations continue beyond the events listed above. Recently renovated Stead Park, located on P Street NW between 16th and 17th streets, hosts its grand reopening party with a day of “activities that will help you become a Jedi.” Look for space-themed games and story times for kids, out-of-this-world temporary tattoos, lightsabers created by a balloon artist, live music, and food from local restaurants. ( 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Free. ) Cheeky Dupont Circle cocktail bar (cantina?) McClellan’s Retreat celebrates Star Wars Day once again with a themed “The Cocktails Strike Back” menu, which will be announced and made available on May the Fourth. Come in Star Wars apparel for a free shot. ( 4 to 11:30 p.m. Free .)

Cinco de Mayo on 14th Street NW

The stretch of businesses near the corner of 14th and Spring streets NW is home to a number of Mexican bars and restaurants, and they’re celebrating Cinco de Mayo with two days of music and specials. The party includes strolling mariachi musicians Saturday from 6 to 9 p.m., and folk dancing by Corazón Folklórico on Sunday between 1 and 3 p.m. Chef Alfredo Solis, the owner of the strip’s Anafre and Mezcalero , is setting up outside Anafre on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m., serving a special menu of street tacos, plus discounted beers and margaritas. Meanwhile, Chicatana is hosting an all-day happy hour with taco specials, and Taqueria Habanero has margarita and shot specials both days. Both of those offers continue into Sunday, when there’s also a day-long party with DJs and drink deals at Toro Bar and an all-day happy hour at D.C. Corazon . Saturday and Sunday; business hours vary. Free .

Spring Beer Fest at Solace Outpost

More than a dozen local producers of beer, cider and mead are joining forces at Solace’s Falls Church brewpub for this low-key fest, including Sapwood Cellars, Settle Down Easy and Mieza Blendery. Tickets include unlimited four-ounce samples, served in a commemorative glass, and music from the Aftermath Band and Ramaan Insari. Families are welcome, with balloon artists and face painters to entertain the kids. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. $45-$65 .

Free Comic Book Day

Celebrate independent comic book stores at locations throughout the DMV, including Victory Comics Group in Falls Church and Big Planet Comics in Bethesda and on U Street NW. At Fantom Comics in Dupont Circle, you can take home up to five titles plus shop at Joint Custody’s vintage clothing and record pop-up. There are also cosplayers, raffles and prizes. ( 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Free . )

Hellbender Brewing Record Fair

What goes together better than listening to vinyl and drinking craft beer? How about finding the perfect new record while drinking craft beer? At least 20 record stores and vendors are setting up shop at Hellbender Brewing on Saturday afternoon, including Sonidos, Som and Smash, while Takoma Radio’s DJ Dempsey provides the tunes and Beef Space BBQ and El Jefe pizza serve up grub. 1 to 7 p.m. Free .

Berry-Ocracy Release Party at Red Bear Brewing

The first collaboration between Red Bear and Soul Mega is a Berry-Ocracy, an American wheat ale with blackberries, which “rounds out the sweetness from the wheat with a nice tart finish,” according to Soul Mega’s Instagram announcement. Get a first sip at the NoMa brewpub while listening to music from DJs Bri Mafia and Konshince. 1 to 5 p.m. Free .

Village at Leesburg Pet Festival

What’s your dog’s secret talent: Playing dead? Doing a backflip? Pushing a shopping cart ? Let your furry friend show off its skills at the Village at Leesburg’s annual Pet Festival, which has a talent contest with novice, intermediate and advanced categories. (Note: You have to register before 5 p.m. Friday .) Beyond the showcase, pets can pose for a caricaturist or try a luring course, while humans can browse pet supply vendors or meet adoptable rescue animals. Noon to 4 p.m. Free .

Sunday, May 5

Piñata-making class at Taqueria Habanero

Taqueria Habanero is a place to find “the fresh, authentic flavors of Mexico,” as our colleague Tim Carman once said, but on Cinco de Mayo, its Bryant Street Market location is also a place to get crafty. Learn how to create a piñata, and figure out what you’re going to stuff it with while sipping a margarita from the Alegria bar and snacking on quesabirria or mango salmon tacos. This class is appropriate for all ages. Noon to 2:30 p.m. $40-$45 .

Soulful House Sessions at Eighteenth Street Lounge

Veteran DJs Divine and Oji celebrate Cinco de Mayo by dusting off their favorite Latin and Latin-influenced soulful house records, and spinning tracks for an appreciative and ready-to-dance crowd at Eighteenth Street Lounge. Meanwhile, Jarobi Murray serves up tacos on the rooftop deck, and the bar pours tequila and margarita specials. 5 to 10 p.m. Free .

Cinco de Mayo at Lost Generation

Is there a better day than Cinco de Mayo to release (or rerelease) a Mexican-style lager? Probably not. Vida, which Lost Generation called “our lightest lager yet” when it originally dropped in 2023, hits the taps at the Eckington brewery again, alongside tacos from La Michoacana, a menu of margaritas and agua frescas, and a 4 p.m. performance by a mariachi band. 1 to 6 p.m. Free .

Amapiano Sundays at Hook Hall

After spending last summer hosting parties at the Sandlot venues in Georgetown and Anacostia, Amapiano Sundays — your monthly destination for the jazzy, infectious style of deep house from South Africa, as well as other African rhythms — has moved to Hook Hall in Park View on the first Sunday of the month. May’s guest is DJ Priyanka (get a preview here ) alongside vibe setters Mobu, Amenpiano and Anansi. 2 to 8 p.m. $30 .

F1 Wine Class at the Eastern

Formula One racing is having a moment in D.C., as evidenced by the crowd of 50,000 that showed up to watch a Red Bull F1 car drive back and forth on Pennsylvania Avenue two weeks ago. But here’s an unexpected crossover: wine classes. Robert Morin, the sommelier at the Eastern wine bar on Capitol Hill, is a Formula One fan. His next wine tasting — held on the same day as the Miami Grand Prix — features wines and wine styles that originate in regions that host Formula One tracks. After sampling through the selections, the Eastern is showing the race in Miami on all its TVs, with full sound. 1 to 3 p.m. $50 .

Pinko de Mayo at Primrose

Sebastian Zutant is a partner in Virginia winery Lightwell Survey as well as Brookland bistro Primrose , so it’s not really a surprise that the release party for Lightwell’s five newest natural wines is being hosted at the former sommelier’s own bar. Tickets to Pinko de Mayo include a full flight of wine and food from the Primrose kitchen, and colorful attire is requested: As the invite says, “Wear pink, come drink.” 1 to 4 p.m. $50 .

Tuesday, May 7

The Chisel at Union Stage

English hooligans the Chisel pay tribute to their country’s street punk and pub rock traditions by making a straight-ahead attack on politicians, hypocrites, propagandists and bloodsuckers. The title of their latest album, “What a F---ing Nightmare,” captures the daily feeling of living through the doom scroll, but the band, and its like-minded tour mate Conservative Military Image, is about perseverance over exploitation: “I just feel like living for myself,” goes one of its full-throated pint-smashers. “Life’s worth more than serving someone else.” 8 p.m. $20-$40 .

Wednesday, May 8

Live Jazz on Kennedy Street at HR Records

Jazz lovers already know HR Records as a place to hunt for vintage vinyl from big names and underappreciated artists. But the Brightwood Park shop will soon be a place to catch local jazz, too. The Live Jazz on Kennedy Street series brings a new musician each month, starting this week with the versatile saxophone player Sarah Marie Hughes . Browse the records in the shop, enjoy the music and, afterward, head across the street to Brightwood Pizza, which hosts a monthly vinyl night and offers a 10 percent discount with a receipt from HR. Neighborhood synergy! 7 to 9 p.m. Free .

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2024 Summer Schedule for Bicycle Weekends on Lake Washington Boulevard 

*Correction: Blog post updated 5/1. Weekend dates in an earlier version of this blog post were meant to match the previous year’s dates and are now correctly updated below. This time change correctly reflects the call for Bicycle Weekends to be more predictable, consistent, and to reduce the impacts on evening and morning commutes.  We apologize for any confusion.     On scheduled weekends from May to September, a portion of Lake Washington Boulevard will be closed to motorized vehicles from 10 a.m. Saturday to 6 p.m. Sunday .  

“Seattle Parks and Recreation invites everyone in the community to bike, jog or stroll along the boulevard between the Seward Park entrance and Mount Baker Park’s beach during these times and to opt outside for health, recreation and fun!” said AP Diaz, Superintendent of Seattle Parks and Recreation, “and ask that drivers be cautious of pedestrians and obey all signage during the closures.”   

Local access: People driving to homes along the boulevard because they live there, are visiting, or making deliveries are allowed from the nearest cross street.  

Parking lots are open and will be accessible from the nearest cross street (see parking details and map below).  

The 2024 event dates are:*     Saturday, May 18 – Sunday, May 19  

Saturday, May 25 – Sunday, May 26  

Saturday, June 15 – Sunday, June 16  

Saturday, June 22 – Sunday, June 23   

Saturday, July 13– Sunday, July 14  

Saturday, July 27 – Sunday, July 28  

Saturday, August 10 – Sunday, August 11  

Saturday, August 24– Sunday, August 25  

Saturday, August 31 – Sunday, Sept 1  

Saturday, September 21– Sunday, September 22   Seattle parks with free parking near the Bicycle Weekends route include:   

• Colman Park, 1800 Lake Washington Blvd. S  
• Mount Baker Park Beach, 2521 Lake Park Dr. S  
• Stan Sayres Memorial Park, 3803 Lake Washington Blvd. S  
• Adams St Boat Launch, 4200 Lake Washington Blvd. S  
• Ferdinand St Boat Launch, 5018 Lake Washington Blvd. S  
• Seward Park,5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S  

Map of bike route, parking access, and public transit/bike routes to event:   

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