historic tours washington dc

All Tours: 58

Historic downtown and chinatown, mid-century modernism in southwest, capitol hill historic district & emerald street historic district, african american schools, u street & shaw: before and since 1968, early and industrial georgetown, the campaign against covenants in bloomingdale, african american civil rights, saint elizabeths hospital, women in history downtowndc callbox tour, riding the 70s (from silver spring to archives/l'enfant plaza), riding the s2/s9 (from piney branch to lafayette square), riding the x2 (from minnesota avenue to lafayette square), riding the 90 (from anacostia historic district to duke ellington bridge/rock creek park), riding the 50s (from takoma park historic district to metro center/federal triangle), riding the 32/36 (from southern avenue/naylor road to foggy bottom), dc firehouses, gone, but not forgotten, preserving chocolate city, latinx heritage tour, national historic landmarks: lafayette square & 16th street, national historic landmarks: sheridan-kalorama & dupont circle, national historic landmarks: african american history, national historic landmarks: capitol hill, national historic landmarks: historic downtown washington, capital city slavery, 2021 landmarks in review, district schools & universities, dc's landmark libraries, postwar modernism in washington dc, district theaters, historically designated interiors, women's suffrage in washington d.c., looking back at the joint committee on landmarks: a selection of sites, food and drink in the district, historic landmarks on the 2022 most endangered places list, d.c. apartment buildings, dcpl-sponsored landmarks and historic districts, commemorative monuments and memorials of dc, abstract sculptures of dc, 2022 landmarks in review, exploring dc's go-go and punk music scenes, dc's landmarks of transportation, riding the 96 (from capitol heights to tenleytown), finding style in dc: navigating dc’s shopping scene, sacred spaces in dc, riding the l2 (from chevy chase circle to farragut square), finding asian american history in washington, dc, mid-century neighborhoods tour, public art tour, following florida avenue: the original boundary of the city of washington, dc architects to know series: part one, dc architects to know series: part two, dc architects to know series: part three, daring geometric design: art deco in washington, d.c., historic banks and financial institutions of dc, 2023 landmarks in review, m street high school: where trailblazers thrived.

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12 best washington, d.c. tours (beyond the monuments).

The nation's capital has more to offer than free museums and tons of history.

The Best Washington, D.C. Tours

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With lots of free attractions and historic sites in a relatively compact area, Washington, D.C., is a tourist's delight. Even so, there's no better way to get to know the nation's capital than with an expert. U.S. News gathered expert recommendations and traveler opinions to create this list of the top tours in Washington. Whether your interests include architecture, history or food, the following tours let you get to know the city like a local.

D.C. By Foot – National Mall Tour

Price: $4 tour reservation fee Duration: 2 hours

D.C. By Foot's National Mall walking tour is a mile-long stroll that includes stories about famous landmarks like the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Washington Monument. Travelers praise the tour, saying it is chock-full of information and that the guides are engaging. D.C. By Foot is a pay-what-you-want tour: it's free, though it is assumed you will tip your licensed, freelance guides.

Tours depart Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays at 2 p.m. Travelers should note reservations are required for this tour and there is a $4 reservation fee per person for tours. The company also conducts a slightly shorter Scavenger Hunt at the Mall tour geared toward kids and a bevy of other tours around the city.

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Old Town Trolley Tours of Washington D.C.

Price: Adults from $44; kids from $33 Duration: 1.5 hours

According to reviewers, this trolley tour provides an educational and relaxing outing, thanks to informative commentary from the friendly onboard guides. This hop-on, hop-off tour option allows travelers to explore Washington at their own pace and check out the monuments, museums and attractions that they are most interested in. Popular stops on the trolley route include the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the International Spy Museum, the Lincoln Memorial, the National Portrait Gallery and more. In total, the trolley makes 15 stops.

Trollies run hourly from 9 a.m. to about 4 p.m. daily. Old Town Trolley Tours also offers specialized Arlington National Cemetery tours and a Monuments by Moonlight Tour, among others.

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Unlimited Biking DC – Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $55 Duration: 3 hours

A great way to quickly cover a lot of ground is on the Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour from Unlimited Biking DC, which takes you on a guided tour to see the main monuments along the National Mall and the Tidal Basin. What's more, the entire tour takes place on sidewalks, paths and trails, so you never have to worry about navigating city streets. Plus, you can hop off to take photos and explore sites during the roughly 4-mile adventure. Visitors say the tour is perfect for families thanks to the engaging guides and manageable pace of the route.

E-bikes are available for an additional fee. The tour runs at 10 a.m. daily, with an additional 2:30 p.m. tour from April through October. If you can't get enough of the monuments, the company also offers a Monuments at Night Bike Tour as well as cherry blossoms tours, among other options.

Reza Venegas | Courtesy of Mangia D.C.

Mangia DC Food Tours – Georgetown Foodie Tour

Price: Adults from $79; kids from $69 Duration: 3 to 3.5 hours

Eating your way through Georgetown – one of D.C.'s wealthiest and most picturesque neighborhoods – with Mangia D.C Food Tours is a delightful way to get acquainted with the area. On the Georgetown Foodie Tour, you'll visit up to five restaurants for tasty samples, plus a cocktail or mocktail pairing. Your guide will give you an overview of the area's cultural and political ties, as well as point out historic landmarks. Foodies say the tour is both filling and educational.

Mangia D.C. limits tours to 14 people, which makes for an intimate group – another point of praise for reviewers. Tours run Friday through Sunday and start at 1 p.m. Looking for more local eats? Mangia also offers an Italian Food Tour in Washington's Dupont Circle neighborhood.

Capital Segway Tours

Price: From $70 Duration: 2 hours

Seeing all of Washington's landmarks on foot is an ambitious goal, but if you swap walking for riding a Segway, you can glide to most of them. Highlights on this tour include the White House, the National Archives, the Washington Monument and the Capitol. Every rider receives a radio headset, which makes it easy to hear the guide's descriptions. Reviewers say the guides are fantastic and the tours provide the perfect overview of the city, which in turn helps visitors decide where they want to spend more time. Many add that they appreciate the guides spending time to make sure everyone feels comfortable and safe on the Segway before setting off.

Participants must be 16 or older and weigh at least 100 pounds to ride. Tours are not suitable for those who weigh over 250 pounds or women who are pregnant. Capital Segway Tours requires travelers to arrive 30 minutes prior to tour for orientation and training session. Tours run year-round and are offered several times a day, weather permitting.

Blue Fern Travel – Black Broadway — U Street Food Tour

Price: From $105 Duration: 2.5 to 3 hours

This U Street tour run by Blue Fern Travel (formerly Carpe D.C. Food Tours) is purportedly the company's most popular, which makes sense because the U Street neighborhood is one of the liveliest in the city. During the tour, your guide will take you to several locally owned restaurants for hearty samples. As you make your way along U Street, you'll learn about the neighborhood's history, architecture and jazz heritage. Foodies find the history lessons surprising and informative; some love the information almost as much as the food.

Tours depart Thursday through Sunday at 11:30 a.m. year-round; group size is typically around 12 people, according to the company. You can expect to walk about a mile on the tour visiting the different eateries. Tickets cost $105 per person. Blue Fern also offers food tours of Georgetown and Old Town Alexandria.

USA Guided Tours – African American History and Culture Tour

Price: Adults from $89; kids from $79 Duration: 3.5 hours

Travelers heap praise on the guides leading the African American History and Culture Tour, applauding their expertise and storytelling. During the bus ride across D.C., travelers will learn of African American history and perspectives of different D.C. monuments. Sites on the tour include Black Lives Matter Plaza, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and the African American Civil War Memorial, among other significant locations. Trips conclude at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, where you will have reserved access to the popular site. (Note: Some stops are guided around monuments, while others are quick pauses for photos.)

Tours run daily at 10 a.m. This tour is also available as a private excursion. USA Guided tours operates a variety of bus and walking tours.

Check prices & availability on: 

D.C. Design Tours – Dupont Circle & Embassy Row Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $20 Duration: 2 hours

D.C. Design Tours focuses on Washington's eclectic architecture and design. On the approximately 2-mile Dupont Circle & Embassy Row Tour, you'll explore the area while an experienced guide identifies and describes significant properties, such as The Cosmos Club, the Embassy of Indonesia (Walsh-McLean House) and the Woodrow Wilson House. You'll also hear a good deal of history and some juicy gossip about some of the nation's movers and shakers. Tour-takers rave about the hidden gems and stories the guides share.

Public tours run on Saturdays at 11 a.m. Design Tours also guides visitors through surrounding neighborhoods, such as Capitol Hill and Georgetown.

D.C. Metro Food Tours – Georgetown Food Tour

Price: From $80 Duration: 3.5 hours

During the Georgetown Food Tour, you'll visit up to five local spots in this upscale neighborhood. But you won't just be stopping in for a quick bite. Instead, tour-takers will sit down and be served a specialty of the house – an element foodies love about the tour. Dining highlights might include pie from a family-owned bakery, a Korean dish and Italian-American fare. In addition to tasty cuisine, guides will regale you with stories about local sites and landmarks as you walk between stops.

Tours operate Thursday through Sunday at 3 p.m. D.C. Metro Food Tours offers food tours of other neighborhoods, including Dupont Circle and Virginia's Old Town Alexandria.

City Brew Tours – The DC Signature Brew Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 3.5 hours

With a motto of "You Drink, We Drive," D.C. Brew Tours sets the stage for a safe yet beer-filled day on its Original Brew Tour. During the outing, you'll be chauffeured around the city in a comfortable van, visit three breweries, get behind-the-scenes tours and enjoy up to 12 local craft beers. This tour also includes a beer-pairing lunch. Participants champion expert guides and excellent beers.

Get your beer fix during the tour, which runs multiple times from Wednesday through Sunday. D.C. Brew Tours limits its excursions to 14 people. The company also offers private tours.

Nonpartisan Pedicab – Smithsonian Museums and Pennsylvania Avenue

Price: $175 per hour Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours

Being chauffeured around town in a private pedicab with Nonpartisan Pedicab is a novel and comfortable way to see the sights in D.C. You can sit back and relax while an expert guide gives you a personalized tour and does the cycling for you. On the company's Smithsonian Museums and Pennsylvania Avenue tour, you'll follow the inaugural route from the Capitol to the White House, passing 24 landmarks along the way. Tour-takers say the guides are excellent and share plenty of fun facts and history during the trip.

Occasionally the company offers discounts and deals on the hourly rate (check its website for details). Nonpartisan Pedicab offers a variety of tours around the city, including a twilight tour of the monuments and an Embassy Row and Georgetown tour, among others.

City Cruises – Monuments and Sightseeing Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $23 Duration: 1 hour

After you've toured the monuments by foot, bike or bus, why not admire them from the water? City Cruises offers one-way and round-trip departures from Alexandria, Virginia and Georgetown. Along the way, you'll see the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Washington Monument, the Arlington Memorial Bridge and more, all while enjoying prerecorded commentary describing the monuments. Visitors appreciate the narration but note that engine noise sometimes drowns out the recording.

During the warm-weather months, the cruise departs daily. Throughout the rest of the year, cruises usually only operate on the weekends. One-way trips last 45 minutes each way. Round-trip journeys span just under two hours. The company offers several other sightseeing cruises, including one that drops off visitors at Mount Vernon.

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Washington, D.C., Bus Tours
• Best Things to Do in Washington, D.C.
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Tags: Tours , Washington, D.C. , Travel , Vacations , food and drink , Washington DC Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

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Abraham Lincoln's Washington

Available for private tour bookings. Email [email protected] for more information.

Black History in Lafayette Park

Saturday, February 17, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

Available for private and group tour bookings - please email [email protected] for more information.

D.C. Emancipation Day

Sunday, April 14, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

This walk has been canceled, but we'll be back in 2025!

Also available to book privately. Contact us at [email protected] for details.

Gilded Age Washington

Available for private tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Hamilton's D.C.

Available for group and private tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

How Food Shapes a City

Available for private and group tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

National Mall Memorials: The Backstory

Penn Quarter

Rainbow Pride D.C.

Available as a private tour. Please email [email protected] for more information.

Rock Creek Cemetery

Saturday, November 2, 2024 at 11:00 a.m. 

Also available for private tour bookings. Please email [email protected] for more information.

The March on Washington

Available to book privately.  Please contact us at [email protected] for details.

U.S. Capitol and Houses of Congress

Available for private tour bookings. Email [email protected] for more information.

Washington is Burning! August 1814: Attack on the U.S. Capitol

Washington is Burning! August 1814: The White House in Flames

Women Who Changed America

Sunday, March 10, 2024 at 2:00 p.m.

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Historic Perspectives, Modern Initiatives

When Woodrow Wilson and his wife Edith retired from the White House in 1921 they made this house their home. Just off the beaten path of Embassy Row in the heart of Washington, D.C. the house is historically preserved - a time capsule from 1924 that is open daily to visitors.

Since 1963, the National Trust has opened the doors of the Woodrow Wilson House to the public, examining the impact of his consequential presidency and, more recently, taking an honest appraisal of Wilson’s triumphs and shortcomings.

Today, we are proud to steward this site as a vibrant community resource and a model of preservation and historical collections.  We offer tours, programs, special events, rentals of the venue, exhibitions and educational programming.

Come visit us! Explore by taking a tour, engage with our education programs, discover our exhibitions, and celebrate a place and story that matters.

Fashioning Power, Fashioning Peace Exhibition and Gala: May 6

You are invited to the inaugural Fashioning Power, Fashioning Peace exhibition, opening with a gala honoring the late Ambassador Esther Coopersmith on Monday, May 6, 2024 from 6:00 – 9:00 PM at the President Woodrow Wilson House.

Come see fashion from around the globe in the museum, then step into the back garden for a celebration with a light buffet and beverages (catered by Susan Gage). Dress in your best "state dinner" or “traditional cultural” attire and mingle with diplomats, politicians, fashion influencers, and the social elite of the nation’s capital, right in the heart of Embassy Row.

This event coincides with the Met Gala in New York City, but only in Washington, D.C. can you truly understand how fashion has the power to create peace.

In Remembrance: Ambassador Esther Lipsen Coopersmith (1930-2024)

It is with a heavy heart that we remember and honor the life and legacy of Ambassador Esther Coopersmith. Esther has been a lifelong neighbor on S Street and is the mother of one of our Advisory Council Members, Jonathan Coopersmith.

For over 70 years, Esther was an American diplomat, philanthropist, political lobbyist, and a champion for women's rights in many arenas. She bought people together from different cultures, religions, and backgrounds. The Woodrow Wilson House chose her for this exact reason to be the first honoree of our new exhibition and gala: Fashioning Power, Fashioning Peace on May 6. We are proud to honor her posthumously at this year's inaugural event. We will never forget her many accomplishments and her generosity as a neighbor on S Street. Click here for more information about Fashioning Power, Fashioning Peace .

Schedule Your Guided Tour!

Discover The President Woodrow Wilson House! One-hour guided general tours and Specialty tours are available during the times below and by appointment. With over 8,400 items in the collection, our artifacts speak volumes about Woodrow Wilson’s presidency and legacy. Learn about the historic site. Come tour with us!

Normal Operating Hours: Sunday: Closed 1-Hour Guided Tours: Wednesdays, Thursdays, & Saturdays 30-Minute Highlight Tours: Mondays-Fridays (unless otherwise noted) Specialty Tours: Mondays-Thursdays No Self-Guided Tours

Holiday Operating Hours: Walk Weekend 2024: May 18-19 (Hours to be posted before weekend)

Active Military and Veterans: Free admission Call or e-mail for special appointments or group tours: 202-387-4062. Please note that group tours are $30/person.

NOW OPEN Permanent Exhibit: "Moving Toward Transparency: Woodrow Wilson's Legacy at 100"

Monday - Saturday

In this exhibition, we have meticulously curated a dual-sided narrative—one that pays tribute to the significant milestones of Wilson's presidency and, in equal measure, delves into the multifaceted controversies that have resonated through the decades. It is an exhibition that encapsulates both the brilliance and the complexities of Wilson's leadership, inviting us to examine, question, and contemplate.

In the News

75th Anniversary of The National Trust for Historic Preservation

Watch the promo video for the 75th anniversary of the founding of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The Woodrow Wilson House and staff features

Hidden Washington

Hidden Washington does a deep dive and a visit behind closed doors at the museum. Hosted by Elena Tibbetts DomoNaut presents "Hidden Home Histories": Woodrow

Listen to the full interview of Biographer Rebecca Robert's author, "Interview with NPR" set at the historic Woodrow Wilson House.

Five Best: Books on First Ladies Selected by Rebecca Boggs Roberts, the author of ‘Untold Power: The Fascinating Rise and Complex Legacy of First Lady

Each year, 10+ Wilson House Scholars work on meaningful projects shared with the wider community through Scholars in Action. We serve hundreds of DC-based teachers, as well as teachers following the National Standards for Civics & Government with our online lesson plans. This year over 75 Girl Scouts learned about civics, suffrage, and democracy. Urban explorers from all over the world visit our exhibitions and over 12,000 sets of eyes view our website each month!

National Endowment for the Humanities (NEH) Grant: For the People, By the People

Marder-Vaughn Center for Historic Sites Interpretation and Education Grant: Teacher-in-Residence at Woodrow Wilson House

Thank you to the Gills Grant for enabling us to continue our mission, our vision, and our impact on the community.

15th Point Project

Not much has changed at the Wilson House in the last 100 years, except the conversation . Here's what people are talking about today :

Thank you so much to our tour guide – Her tour was simply magnificent. She knew every detail – and spoke with such clarity, warmth, and authority. Her considered personal conclusions on Mr. Wilson’s legacy were spell-binding. James – A Guest

It is a beautiful, beautiful property and we hope to visit again in the future. Our group had a wonderful time. Thank you so much for your help in coordinating. This is quite frankly, a hidden gem in DC. Heather, Broadcasters Association

I cannot tell you how much our group enjoyed the Woodrow Wilson House. What a tremendous amount of knowledge our guide has – he truly made the Woodrow Wilson House even better than we expected. Heather, Broadcasters Association

What Black Lives Matter is confronting is also opening up new possibilities for quite profound change in the United States.  Dr. Kristoffer Smemo, History Professor at the University of Washington in St. Louis

Out of every crisis we’ve ever had, there’s always been a catharsis afterwards. That’s not being a prophet, it’s simply just studying history and you’ll see that always happens. Garrett Peck, Author, Historian, Tour Guide, and Wilson House Board Member

If we only honor the big names and the loud women, we’re really missing what suffrage was all about – which is rights for all women. Laura Kumin, author of All Stirred Up: Suffrage Cookbooks, Food, and the Battle for Women’s Right to Vote

Many Americans don’t even realize America is full of so many paradoxes, but they are what makes America complicated but wonderful in diversity. Dr. Johnathan Wharton

America has its own problems but is making progress–taking one step backwards and two steps forward. Attorney Chris Richardson

For all of those individuals who are similarly interested in changing, shaping, having a dynamic impact on America, politics is the place to do it. Brenda Jones, author of Queens of the Resistance

You don’t need to treat blacks and women special, just as equals. Ambassador Joel Danies

Past Events

Speaker series – korean cultural center and dana tai soon burgess dance co., speaker series – lanitra berger on audacities of color, errin haines from the 19th*, franchise: the golden arches in black america, take a video tour of the president wilson house.

Host Your Next Event at President Wilson House

At the President Wilson House you can entertain your guests in classic Washington style. Ideal for any size event, from small dinners to large receptions, Wilson House epitomizes the ‘Washington Scene’ and offers a unique glimpse into the history of our nation’s capital.

Whether it's a graduation, wedding, corporate dinner or milestone occasion, the President Wilson House offers an elegant setting for your special event. 

Your ticket for the: Home

See The Best First

You’ve arrived! Now, get the insider’s view of the city aboard Old Town Trolley! Our DC Tours show you the best spots first, giving you the most comprehensive sightseeing experience of The Nation’s Capital.

Less stopping, more sightseeing

We may not be as old as the monuments, but as DC’s oldest tour company we know this city better than anyone else. We also know that the quality of your tour doesn’t depend on the mere number of tour stops, so we’ve carefully crafted our tour route, selecting the right amount of stops at all the right places with minimal interruptions.

Every seat is the best seat with our state-of-the-art stadium trolleys.

Monuments by Moonlight Tour

Rated as one of the Top 20 Best Kept Secrets in Washington DC by FOX News. Experience The Nation’s Capital in a different light with our DC Night Tour .

We Speak Your Language

Visiting with friends and family that don’t speak English? Our new exclusive foreign language app is here to help! Now you can enjoy live narration in 7 different languages. Sit back, relax, and enjoy all the sights and sounds via a fully-narrated tour through our nation’s capital.

Our Environmental Commitment

With our use of clean burning propane, we’ve been committed to preserving and protecting the environment since we began delighting guests across the United States with our wonderful brand of Transportainment ® .

Museum of the Bible Complete Guide Monuments by Moonlight ®

The Only Tour That Takes You Into Arlington National Cemetery

Wedding Charters Museum of the Bible Complete Guide

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812 reviews

Old Town Trolley Tours Washington DC 4.2

Choose Your Adventure

Whether you’re just breezing through or enjoying an extended stay, we’ve got several options to choose from to help you maximize your time in DC and still see the best first! Buy Your Tickets Online and Save!

“Hop aboard one of our trolleys and you’ll experience Transportainment ® , a delightful combination of transportation and entertainment.”

1-Day Old Town Trolley Tour

• Hop On & Off at 15 Old Town Trolley Stops
• Fully Narrated Tour of Washington DC
• Our trolleys are all weather - rain or shine
• BEST VIEW! Tallest vehicles allowed by law with stadium seating
• Over 100 points of interest

Old Town Trolley Tour & Arlington National Cemetery Tour

• 50%* Discount on Arlington Tour Included In 1-Day Package
• Includes separate ticket to Arlington National Cemetery Tour*
• Trolley Tour and Arlington Cemetery Tour do not have to be taken on the same day

Monuments by Moonlight

• See the city’s most popular monuments in a different light
• Stops at FDR, Lincoln, Vietnam Veterans, Korean War and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorials
• Hear historical tales and anecdotes

Arlington National Cemetery Tours

• Learn about cemetery's history and heroes from knowledgeable guides
• Be transported to notable graves and memorials
• Tours depart every 30 minutes
• Relax on our comfortable tour vehicles

Why use Old Town Trolley Tours in Washington DC

• Riding around the Beltway for over 30 years as DC’s longest-running city tour!
• All our DC tours are 100% live in real time - No pre-recorded narration
• The finest, most highly-trained and knowledgeable guides
• Unlimited hop-on & hop-off as often as you like all day long
• Proudly owned and operated in the United States
• The only tour authorized to enter the grounds of Arlington National Cemetery*
• Exclusive foreign language tour app offered in 7 languages

Sun, Rain or Snow...

We’re dc’s best all-weather touring experience.

• Best view! State-of-the-art stadium trolleys
• Every seat is the best seat!
• All-weather trolleys - rain or shine! Our vehicles get the job done
• Onboard monitors display historical imagery
• Comfortable padded seats for a pleasant tour

Your Vacation… All Mapped Out For You!

• Trolley Routes & Stops
• Helpful information
• Points of Interest
• Shopping & Entertainment
• Restaurants & Bars
• And much more!

OLD TOWN TROLLEY TOURS

What Our Guests Are Saying

We were impressed.

My sisters and I want to compliment our trolley driver Alex … his knowledge of the area and its history was phenomenal. He was very articulate and his presentation clear. We were impressed and so appreciative..

Thank you for making our trip special

…writing to let you know how wonderful our Old Town Trolley Tour was in D.C. Both our tour guides (Alex and Sooner Steve) were wonderful and made the tour special. They should be commended for the way they represented your company and for the great job that they did. Thank you again and because of this trip we are planning our next trip but only where Old Town Trolley Tours are offered…

What a wonderful experience!

We recently spent a day in your beautiful city & had the pleasure of taking your trolley tour with ‘Mr Holiday’ & ‘Clayton’ as our very knowledgeable tour guides. What a wonderful experience! Thank You.

OTT really made our whole trip!

My mom and I enjoyed our trolley experience tremendously! It went off without a hitch! The guides were all very informative and really added to the sightseeing experience. We were able to see and do so much more because of the trolley. We were also pleased to see that you have wheelchair-accessible options… We have already recommended you to several people.

I’m singing the praises to anyone going to DC

Some friends and I toured DC.  I’m really not into tours but went along with the group. Now I’m singing the praises to anyone going to the DC area. The tour was great and well worth the cost. Tour conductor “Supa Dave” was a riot! My group of 12 agree he should be your conductor of the year.

Drew was fantastic

…we really enjoyed using Old Town Trolley Tours during our week in D.C. All the drivers we had were great, however, Drew was fantastic. His knowledge of history is amazing and his attention to customer service is excellent. I would also like to say thank you to Ms. Margo for her thoughtfulness and kind attention during our time in your great city…

You have some of the most gifted conductors

I went on your tour and just loved it. We used it for the 3 days we were in town! You have some of the most gifted conductors I have ever been a part of. Steven, Super Dave and Grumpy made our trip one that we will never forget! We hope to run into them on our next trip to DC!

It was worth every penny...

I recently visited the DC area with my son. He had only one request; he wanted to see monuments. Well, we purchased tickets with your company. By the end of the day we had seen more monuments than we could believe. My 15-year-old son loved the tour and the guides. He talked all the next day about everything he saw and learned…

...Our favorite activity

Your old town trolley tour is amazing! My friend and I are both 25-year-old students and the trolley was our favorite activity during our week in DC. Definitely fun for all ages! All of our trolley drivers were great, but Super Dave was really Super!

I would recommend it to anyone!

I recently got back from a trip to DC and I just had to write to say what a wonderful experience I had on the trolley tour. I am not much of a sightseeing enthusiast, but our trolley guide Steven was amazing! Not only was he informative and funny, but he was a great driver too! I would definitely come back for another tour…

Old Town Trolley Tours

March 1 – January 1: Daily. January 2 – February 28: Thursdays – Sundays only. Closed Mondays, Tuesdays & Wednesdays.

Hours: 9am – 4pm.

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas.

For more information go to Old Town Trolley Schedule  information.

Schedules for our Washington DC tours are subject to change. Please call for the most current information: (202) 832-9800

Arlington National Cemetery is open 363 days a year.

Operating Hours: 8:30am – 4:00pm.

Special Operating hours: Memorial Day – Tours will begin at 2:00pm. Veterans Day – Tours will begin at 2:00pm.

Closed on Wreaths Across America: Wreaths In Day (December 2024 date coming soon) and Wreaths Out Day (January 2025 date coming soon).

GENERAL INFORMATION: (866) 754-9014 GROUP TOURS: (202) 832-2008

Daily. 7:15pm – 8:00pm.

Closures: Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. July 4: Closed. Closed for Army Ten Miler.

For more information, go to Monuments by Moonlight Schedule .

Reservations are required. Call for availability prior to making your e-ticket purchase:

(202) 832-9800

What are the most popular stops on the DC tour route? + -

We take great pride in providing an itinerary that showcases all the great aspects of each city during our tours. The most popular stops on our DC tour include the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, Arlington National Cemetery, the U.S. Capitol, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, and the Lincoln Memorial.

How long is the DC tour route from start to finish? + -

In total, the day tour route is approximately one hour and 45 minutes long.

Do I have to start at stop #1? + -

You may start your Old Town Trolley Tour at any of our convenient stops. Click on Map and Stops to see a list of our stops with information about the attractions and points of interest at each stop.

What neighborhoods does the tour visit? + -

The Old Town Trolley Tour offers a comprehensive experience of the following neighborhoods in Washington, D.C.:

Downtown D.C.: Explore the heart of the nation’s capital, where iconic landmarks such as the White House, National Mall, and Washington Monument are located.

Capitol Hill: Discover the historic neighborhood surrounding the U.S. Capitol, known for its charming row houses, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress.

Lincoln Memorial: Visit this iconic memorial while enjoying scenic views of the Reflecting Pool and the National World War II Memorial.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial: Pay tribute to the civil rights leader in West Potomac Park.

Smithsonian Museums: Explore the area around the National Mall, home to numerous Smithsonian museums, including the National Museum of American History and the National Air and Space Museum.

Tidal Basin: Enjoy the beauty of the Tidal Basin, known for its cherry blossoms and the Jefferson Memorial.

FDR Memorial: Delve into the history of President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s era at this memorial, located near the Tidal Basin.

Arlington National Cemetery: Cross the Potomac River to visit this renowned cemetery, where you can witness the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

These neighborhoods offer a diverse range of attractions and historical significance, making the Old Town Trolley DC Tour an ideal way to explore the nation’s capital.

Does the tour run on holidays and holiday weekends? + -

Go to the Old Town Trolley Schedule for more information.

How often do tours run throughout the day? + -

Old Town Trolley Tours of DC operates the city’s largest fleet of sightseeing vehicles, and this allows us to pick up and drop off more frequently than any other trolley company. The frequency of the trolleys depends on the time of the year, as well as traffic and weather conditions.

Which DC tours give me access to Arlington National Cemetery? + -

1. Old Town Trolley Ticket – Every Old Town Trolley day tour ticket offers a shuttle from the Lincoln Memorial stop to Arlington National Cemetery. Visitors can enter and walk Arlington at their leisure.

2. Old Town Trolley + Arlington Cemetery Tour Package – This package includes guided-tour access to Arlington and 10 unique stops at the most notable landmarks, including the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, the John F. Kennedy gravesite, and Arlington House. A loop gives visitors the chance to hop on and off at a variety of key points of interest.

3. Monuments by Moonlight + Arlington Cemetery Tour Package – This package includes a nighttime tour of DC’s monuments, which offers a unique perspective of the monuments, and a separate ticket for Arlington National Cemetery tours for use at another time. With the Monuments by Moonlight Tour, you can cover many of these sites in one night, and the package allows you to visit Arlington National Cemetery during the day. Take advantage of the package and enjoy a special discounted rate. Transportation to Arlington is not included in the Monuments by Moonlight package.

What is the National Mall, how large is it, and does Old Town Trolley cover it all? + -

Our DC tours cover a majority of the National Mall, with stops at several Smithsonian museums and National Monuments and Memorials, such as the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, and the FDR Memorial.

In what order should I see the monuments in DC? + -

It’s important to realize that there is no “best” order to see the monuments in DC. It’s really up to you and what you want to see first. However, if you’re looking for a logical and efficient route, an Old Town Trolley Tour is a fantastic way to see all of the best monuments in Washington. By following the tour, you will be able to see all of the important monuments in a logical order. Start with the National Mall, home to some of the most iconic monuments in DC, such as the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.

Continue your monument tour with a visit to the World War II Memorial. This memorial honors the 16 million Americans who served in World War II and the more than 400,000 who gave their lives. It’s a beautiful and moving tribute that will leave you feeling very patriotic.

You can finish up with a stop at Arlington National Cemetery, where many of our nation’s heroes are buried, such as John F. Kennedy and the unknown soldiers from various wars.

How long does it take to visit the National Mall? + -

The National Mall is home to several monuments, including the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, among others.

We suggest deciding which monuments and memorials you want to visit and planning your itinerary accordingly. However, with over 2 miles of history to explore, it can be a daunting task to see everything efficiently. Old Town Trolley Tours has a special package that includes unlimited hop-on, hop-off access to their trolley system for one day. That means visitors can take their time exploring the National Mall at their own pace. The trolleys cover most of the area’s main attractions, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the Smithsonian museums. In total, the trolley route is approximately one hour and 45 minutes long, meaning visitors can take advantage of the unlimited access to create their own itinerary through the National Mall.

Can you tour the National Mall at night? + -

Many monuments on the National Mall are open 24/7, which makes it possible to experience them at any time of the day or night. However, visiting them during the night provides a unique opportunity to see them at rest. The memorials and landmarks are lit up, creating a mesmerizing contrast against the dark sky. The National Mall at night is peaceful and calming and sets an entirely different mood than during the daytime. There are fewer crowds, which makes the experience more intimate and allows you to take your time to appreciate the structures’ details and beauty.

The Monuments by Moonlight Tour will take you on a journey through history and showcase the stunning beauty of the monuments when they are illuminated. Embark on an exciting journey through DC’s historic neighborhoods. Once you reach the National Mall, you will experience the incredible beauty of the monuments at night. You’ll tour famous landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and, as you explore them in the evening, you will get fascinating insights into their history and significance. The monuments and memorials are beautifully illuminated at night, giving them an almost ethereal look, which adds to the experience.

How long does it take to visit Washington? + -

You can experience the best of the city in two days, especially if your group chooses Old Town Trolley for your transportation needs. You’ll be able to see the most popular sites without getting lost or spending too much time figuring out the city layout by yourself. The trolley stops at various landmarks across the city, including the U.S. Capitol and the Smithsonian museums. That way, you get more out of your time and an immersive experience!

What are the most famous attractions in Washington, D.C.? + -

There are a few Washington landmarks that definitely cannot be missed:

1. The National Mall is the first attraction that comes to mind while visiting Washington. It is essentially a walkable park that connects the White House to the Lincoln Memorial. The park is adorned with some of the most impressive monuments and memorials, including the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and the Washington Monument, which serves as the centerpiece of the park.

2. The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. It is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue and was built in 1800. Visitors can take guided tours of the White House but must secure their bookings months in advance. The White House gardens are open to visitors every day of the year.

3. The 19 Smithsonian museums have something for everybody, from space exhibitions at the Air and Space Museum to the hidden stories of African-American history in the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

4. The United States Capitol Building is the home of the U.S. Congress. Visitors can take guided tours of the Capitol that include visits to the House and Senate galleries and an overview of the U.S. Congress’ history and workings. A new addition is the Capitol Visitor Center, which offers interactive displays that showcase the Capitol’s history.

5. Arlington National Cemetery is America’s most famous military cemetery. It was founded during the American Civil War, and several thousand service members and their families have been laid to rest here over the years. The cemetery features exquisite headstones of service members and families, notably the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is guarded by the soldiers of the U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Regiment.

Can you see everything in Washington, D.C. in one day? + -

With so many landmarks, museums, and monuments, it can be overwhelming to see everything D.C. has to offer in just one day. But, don’t worry — we have a solution! Start your day early with a hop-on, hop-off tour of the city. With Old Town Trolley, you’ll have access to the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, Capitol Hill, and more. Take advantage of this opportunity to immerse yourself in U.S. history, admire iconic buildings, and learn about the city’s vibrant political culture.

Before you hop off the trolley at each stop, make sure to listen to the onboard narration. This will provide you with a wealth of historical and cultural information about the landmark or museum you are visiting. You can always hop back on the next trolley when you’re ready to move on to the next destination.

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9 Historic House Museums in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. is home to an array of historic house museums that showcase the life and contributions of some of the nation's most iconic figures. Visitors can step inside the property that was once home to notable leaders like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Frederick Douglass and Clara Barton. These museums are special places to visit and generally less crowded than the larger attractions on the National Mall . When you visit the nation's capital, tour a variety of historic estates and learn about the early Americans who shaped our democracy.

Mount Vernon Estate and Gardens

Mount Vernon Ladies Association

The 500-acre estate of George Washington and his family includes a 21-room mansion that is beautifully restored and furnished with original objects dating back to the 1740's. Visitors can tour the mansion as well as the outbuildings, including the kitchen, slave quarters, smokehouse, coach house, and stables. The historic site is located along the shores of the  Potomac River  and is the most scenic tourist attraction in the Washington, DC area. The estate includes the Ford Orientation Center & Donald W. Reynolds Museum and Education Center, which tells the story of Washington's life through state-of-the-art exhibits. Additional amenities on the property include a food court, gift shop and bookstore and the Mount Vernon Inn Restaurant.

President Lincoln's Cottage

Dennis K. Johnson/Getty Images

Abraham Lincoln lived in the Cottage at the Soldiers' Home from June-November of 1862, 1863 and 1864. He was living here when he drafted the preliminary version of the Emancipation Proclamation and deliberated critical issues of the Civil War. Lincoln used the cottage as a quiet retreat from the White House and crafted important speeches, letters, and policies from this site. The cottage was restored and opened to the public in 2008. Visitors get to see an intimate view of Abraham Lincoln’s presidency and family life. A free one-hour guided tour of the cottage   is offered daily. The visitor center features exhibits and displays Lincoln-related artifacts.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site

Frederick Douglass Historic Site

Frederick Douglass, the famous abolitionist, and advisor to Lincoln, bought this house that he called "Cedar Hill" in SE Washington, D.C. in 1877. The year that it was built is unknown. The National Historic Site was restored and reopened in 2007. The home and the grounds area open to the public. Reservations are required. Each February, the museum hosts a birthday celebration for Douglass featuring an array of programs and activities dedicated to increasing the public’s knowledge of his life.

Old Stone House

AgnosticPreachersKid/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY-SA 3.0

Located in the heart of Georgetown, the oldest known private home in Washington, D.C. was built in 1766 and today is preserved to demonstrate everyday life for the average citizen during the 19th century. The historic house is maintained by the National Park Service and is open to the public. With its location at 30th and M Streets, it is easy to stop for a visit while shopping or sightseeing in this popular part of the city. 

Dumbarton House

dbking/Wikimedia Commons/CC BY 2.0

The historic house in Georgetown was originally the home to Joseph Nourse, first Register of the U.S. Treasury. Today it is owned by The National Society of the Colonial Dames of America and serves as a museum displaying an outstanding collection of Federal period (1789-1825) furniture, paintings, textiles, silver, and ceramics. The museum hosts a year-round calendar of public events, lectures, concerts, balls, exhibitions, family activities, summer camps, and rental events. Guided tours are available by appointment. 

Tudor Place Historic House and Garden

Tudor Place

The federal era mansion was built by Martha Washington's granddaughter, Martha Parke Custis Peter and was the home to six generations of the Peter family. The 5-acre estate is one of Washington, D.C.'s hidden gems located in Georgetown's Historic District. The Tudor Place collection includes more than 15,000 objects from the period 1750-1983, including silver, ceramics, jewelry, paintings, drawings, sculpture, photographs, manuscripts, and furniture. The early 19th-century style garden features a Bowling Green, Tennis Lawn, Flower Knot, Boxwood Ellipse, Japanese Tea House and Tulip Poplar. The historic home is open to the public and offers house tours, garden tours, and special events.

Clara Barton National Historic Site

Library of Congress

Located adjacent to  Glen Echo Park , the Clara Barton National Historic Site commemorates the life of Clara Barton, founder of the American Red Cross. The historic home served as the headquarters and warehouse for the American Red Cross where she coordinated relief efforts for victims of natural disasters and war from 1897-1904. The house is shown by guided tour only.

Hillwood Museum & Gardens

Maxwell MacKenzie

The former estate of art collector and philanthropist Marjorie Merriweather Post, the heir to the Post cereal fortune is located near  Rock Creek Park  in NW Washington, D.C. The historic property showcases an impressive collection of 18th- and 19th-century Russian imperial art. Post was a passionate art collector who assembled a superb collection of Russian art including paintings, furniture, Fabergé eggs, jewelry, glass, and textiles. The 25 acres of gardens include a circular rose garden; a formal French parterre, a large crescent-shaped lunar lawn; a traditional Japanese-style garden and waterfall and a greenhouse for orchids. Hillwood offers a variety of programs throughout the year including lectures, garden walks, workshops, and musical and theatrical performances. 

Woodrow Wilson House

Rachel Cooper

Washington's only presidential museum was the final home of our 28th President. Furnished as it was in Wilson's time, the 1915 Georgian Revival home near Dupont Circle is a living textbook of modern American life in the 1920s. Wilson led the nation through World War I, won the Nobel Peace Prize and created the League of Nations. The Woodrow Wilson House is situated in the Kalorama – Embassy Row area that has long featured stately mansions and townhomes. The property includes many remarkable features, including a marble entryway and grand staircase, Palladian window, book-lined study, dumb waiter and butler’s pantry, and solarium overlooking the formal garden.

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The national capital region of Washington, D.C., northern Virginia, and suburban Maryland is home to The Historic House Museum Consortium of Metropolitan Washington D.C., a diverse collection of over 40 sites open to the public as museums and historic attractions. Ranging from the homes of three presidents to the site of an infamous presidential assassination to homes lived in by abolitionists and civil rights leaders, suffragettes and diplomats, patriots, generals, a naval hero, and founding fathers and mothers, the Historic House Consortium of Metropolitan Washington D.C., offers a wide variety of experiences. Featuring an amazing array of American architectural styles from the Colonial and Federal periods to a house designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, home types include small farmsteads, stately plantations, urban row houses, a home in a 1930’s planned community, and of course magnificent mansions and country estates!

134 N. Royal Street Alexandria, VA 22314

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The Best Things to See & Do in Georgetown

A favorite of tourists and locals alike, discover the best things to see, do and eat in dc's historic georgetown neighborhood..

Shopping isn’t the only thing to do in Georgetown . Washington, DC's oldest neighborhood is full of charm, Michelin-approved restaurants, fantastic events for the whole family and plenty of scenic views. Pick your adventure – from the exciting waterfront all the way up to Book Hill – and get exploring in this centuries-old part of the District.

Get active on the Potomac River

        View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Angel & Ronnie Beil (@angel_beil)

Georgetown's waterfront offers a wide range of on-the-water fun , so head down to the banks of the Potomac for your next adventure. Pick up a kayak or standup paddleboard at the  Key Bridge Boathouse  and enjoy Instagram-worthy panoramas of the DC and Virginia skylines while also getting a great workout. Cycle on the water with Potomac Paddle Club 's social, BYOB "cycleboat" experience or simply sit back, relax and let the motor do it's thing.

Tempt your taste buds

A plate for every palate and a bite for every budget. With more than 100 restaurants representing nearly a wide range of ethnicities, Georgetown’s  diverse food and drink scene is only growing. Wherever your taste buds take you, a picture-perfect backdrop awaits – from Georgetown’s vibrant waterfront dining to cozy drinks on tucked-away patios and power lunches among politicos.

Shop to your heart's content

No trip to Georgetown is complete without some retail therapy. Fashionistas know to browse designer duds at Alice & Olivia, Billy Reid and Rag & Bone alongside department store offshoots and local boutiques. You can check out these shops and more in our  Georgetown shopping guide . More interested in snagging a bargain? There's a TJ Maxx/Home Goods on M Street, and a number of upscale secondhand stores in the neighborhood.

Splash, skate and more at Washington Harbour

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Georgetown’s waterfront is home to tons of great restaurants – many, including Sequoia , Tony and Joe's Seafood Place , Farmers Fishers Bakers  and Fiola Mare , offer patio seating in warm weather – and plenty of outdoor activities. In summer, children (and adults, too) can splash in the sprinkler-style water fountain, watch the boats and feed the ducks. In winter months, one of our favorite places to ice skate  opens for the season.

Tour the gorgeous Tudor Place

DC Gardens

This historic landmark has been a fixture in DC since 1816, serving as a home to descendants of Martha Washington for six generations. Inside the elegant house, discover furnishings, household items and fascinating Washington-related artifacts. The five-plus acres worth of gardens on the estate make for a wondrous and scenic outdoor experience.

Explore the gardens at Dumbarton Oaks

Dumbarton Oaks

Secluded and lush, the grounds of this beautiful park have been described as being like the Secret Garden and it’s no surprise why: Manicured greenery, winding pathways and classical fountains comprise a 27-acre historic park that sits atop the highest hill in Georgetown. An adjacent museum specializes in Byzantine and Pre-Columbian art.

Exorcise and exercise

Sam Kittner / Georgetown BID

Get those demon carbs out of your body and run up all 75 of the super-steep infamous Exorcist steps at the corner of 36th and Prospect streets. The steps had their moment of fame as the spot where Father Karras tumbled to his demise in the in the cult horror classic  The Exorcist . Locals flock to the steps to get their sweat on, so you’ll be in good company.

Ogle famous homes

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Georgetown has been home to lots of celebrities: Julia Child taught cooking lessons and tested recipes for her legendary first cookbook while living in the yellow wood-frame house at 2706 Olive Street in the 1950s – the home sold for nearly $1 million in 2015. Or learn about the rich history of the Kennedy family in Georgetown – including the house John F. Kennedy lived in at 3307 N Street while running for president.

Walk in the steps of JFK

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Retrace the steps of one of America’s most iconic presidential couples – John and Jacqueline Kennedy – with a  self-guided Kennedy walking tour around the neighborhood. You can visit the the church where they worshipped and go to  the restaurant  to sit at the booth where JFK proposed in June 1953.

Catch some live jazz at Blues Alley

Founded in 1965 and modeled after the jazz clubs of the 1920s, this supper club-style music venue is hidden away in an alley carriage house and hosts live jazz musicians almost every night of the year. Throughout its history, such legendary performers as Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie and Tony Bennett have taken the stage at the Washington institution.

Book it to Book Hill

_pics_by_josh

Small, independent boutiques, galleries, and restaurants make up the charming area known as Book Hill , located along Wisconsin Avenue from O Street to Reservoir Road. From Book Hill Park you can take in a panoramic view of Georgetown, the Potomac River and Virginia.

Make a memorable lunch date

Georgetown is loaded with beloved lunch spots. If you’re looking for a quick, casual bite, hit up the homegrown chain  Sweetgreen  for healthy-yet-delicious salads,  Good Stuff Eatery  (owned by former  Top Chef  contestant Spike Mendelsohn) for decadent burgers and milkshakes, or  Stachowski’s  for out-of-the-box butcher sandwiches. Don’t forget to swing by  Olivia Macaron , The Bakeshop or Levain Bakery afterwards for sweet treats that are totally Instagrammable.

Get your bocce on at Pinstripes

This  family-friendly game space – which fuses an Italian-American restaurant with a sprawling bowling alley – offers 14 bowling lanes and six bocce courts in an enormous 32,000 square foot space that borders the C&O Canal.

Solve a mystery at Escape Game

Looking for a unique experience? Try this live game, in which a small group of participants must decipher clues to find their way out of a locked room. The Georgetown location has three different themed rooms. Note that reservations are encouraged.

Design the perfect day

Bob Rives / Georgetown BID

Georgetown is home to 30-plus design showrooms and stores, from contemporary to traditional home furnishings and decor. Cady’s Alley anchors the  Georgetown Design District , with more than 20 showrooms and boutiques nestled in a cluster of historic industrial buildings. Enter at 3300 M Street NW, or access the area’s cobblestone walkway from M and 33rd or 34th streets.

Paint the (George)town

Sam Kittner / Georgetown BID

Whether you’re looking for an avant-garde abstract painting or a classic landscape, Georgetown's  neighborhood galleries offer a wide range of styles. A cluster of galleries can be found in Book Hill, while plenty more are sprinkled throughout the neighborhood.

Marvel modern architecture at the House of Sweden

House of Sweden

A spectacular example of modern Scandinavian architecture , this waterfront building – which houses the embassies of Sweden and Iceland – regularly hosts events like yoga and jazz on its rooftop terrace, and exhibits on varied topics, such as an exhibit celebrating Swedish actress Ingrid Bergman.

Take a sweets break with a celebrity cupcake

ehpien via Flickr

Local bakery Georgetown Cupcake  shot to fame when its owners, sisters Katherine Berman and Sophie LaMontagne , became the focus of a TLC reality show. The line for the shop’s sweet treats usually snakes around the block. Looking for more cupcake options in the 'hood? Head down the street to Baked & Wired , a local favorite.

Prepare to be pampered

Four Seasons Hotel, Washington, D.C.

Playtime in Georgetown also means "me time" with a well-deserved visit to one of more than 50  salons and spas . Get the head-to-toe treatment for a day of pampering that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for even more exploring.

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Local Strolls: A self-guided walking tour of Georgetown, Washington, DC

Apr 27, 2024 • 4 min read

Follow this writer's favorite walking route through Georgetown, Washington, DC © DenisTangneyJr / Getty Images

Delve into Local Strolls, a series where writers reveal their favorite walks in their hometowns. Each route offers a snapshot of urban life, guiding you to lesser-known attractions and cherished local spots. Here, Alexa Moore takes us on a two-mile-long amble through the historic streets of Georgetown, Washington, DC.

Washington, DC , is not simply cherry blossoms and politics. It's a city with complex and diverse stories, expertly dissected into four quadrants: Northwest, Northeast, Southwest and Southeast, and at the center of it all lies the US Capitol . DC's oldest stories hide amongst the historic streets of Georgetown, in DC's Northwest. US presidents and Hollywood stars like Elizabeth Taylor once called this place home. It was also home to an African-American community. Resident numbers have dwindled, but remnants like the First Baptist Church of Georgetown , founded by a former enslaved man, still stand firm. 

So, let's begin our walk.

Distance: Approx 2 miles Total walk time: 45 minutes at a leisurely pace

Any good stroll in DC must start with coffee. I'm the kind of gal who needs a little motivation to get my steps in, so I stop into Baked and Wired . The pink window panes beckon me into the split bakery and coffee shop. A dirty chai with house-made horchata is what I order – it's only 9am and I can't justify my usual red velvet cupcake this early in the day.

With long and slow strides, I stroll down picturesque Canal Street briefly. It's adjacent to the currently semi-barren C&O Canal , and the loveliest little brick houses juxtapose its dry, muddy banks. I resist the temptation to search for their property value on Zillow. 

I turn right to head up M St, Georgetown's famous shopping promenade. All the buildings are different hues, yet there's a subtle uniformity. The storefront windows are like portals into wild worlds of fashion I cannot afford. I pass the oldest unchanged structure in the city, the tan-colored relic aptly named the Old Stone House , built in 1765.

Approaching the intersection of M St and Wisconsin Ave, I meet my favorite golden-domed Neoclassical building. I adore how the dome's reflective golden hue brightens up Georgetown's streets. Built in the 1920s, it now operates as a PNC bank branch. My mind can't help but wonder how it shined in its heyday, so to Google I go. Turns out, even a century ago, it was still a bank , a reassuring reminder that while things evolve in the rest of DC and the wider world, things tend to stay the same in Georgetown.

I do a quick heel stretch before turning right and starting my ascent up Wisconsin Ave. If you continue this path, you'll eventually pass green areas like Book Hill Park and the Dumbarton Oaks Museum and Garden . However, on this particularly chilly (and lazy) spring day, I ditch my usual hike and swing left onto N St, gazing at the manicured gardens of homes and the ruby-red-brick sidewalks that lay below.

I find myself at 3260 N St, uncovering a slice of presidential (and very romantic) history. President John F Kennedy rented this home while running for Senate and met Jackie Onassis, the future First Lady, at a nearby Georgetown dinner party in 1952 .

Turning down 35th St, I arrive at Georgetown University's campus. I spot the controversial Transformers -decorated house and can't help but giggle. The burly machines juxtapose the manicured brick facade, and the "Robots in Disguise" are the stars of an ongoing legal battle between the homeowner and the city on whether the statues can stay.

I'm searching for something I haven't seen before – the infamous steps used in the climactic ending of the 1973 film The Exorcist . They're steep. There's something a bit eerie about this tucked-away staircase, so I use the handrails and focus carefully as I descend.

I continue this journey down through the Francis Scott Key Memorial Park , cross the Alexandria Aqueduct Bridge , and eventually find my way back to the C&O Canal Towpath . What a difference a few blocks make, as this side boasts mossy-green grass and pools of water reflecting the fluffy clouds above.

Finally, I head towards the river and my favorite sitting spot at the Georgetown Waterfront Park . I end my nearly two-mile saunter on a bench near the twisting path of the park's Labyrinth , a bit regretful that I didn't buy that red velvet cupcake after all.

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Explore Washington D.C., Colonial America presentation in Williamsburg, St. John's Church in Richmond, Gettysburg Battlefield

Visit Mount Vernon, Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg, Monticello, Gettysburg National Military Park, the National Mall, St John's Church, Independence National Historic Park, Shenandoah National Park, National Constitution Center

View the Washington Monument, U.S. Capitol Building, the White House, Liberty Bell

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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 .

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 .

Advisory Council on Historic Preservation

Achp members tour sites with important african american histories in washington, d.c..

ACHP members and staff visited two Washington D.C. historic sites with important African American histories during their spring business meeting activities in March. They toured Tudor Place, the plantation owned by the family of Martha Washington and a National Historic Landmark, and Mt. Zion Cemetery , which was almost lost to history before being added to the National Register of Historic Places. Lisa Fager, Executive Director of Black Georgetown Foundation, led a tour of the cemetery, including a peek into a vault used to hide those escaping slavery through the Underground Railroad. Expert Member Charles “Sonny” Ward was moved by one stop on the tour.

“At the cemetery, we discovered the shared headstone of two women who had once been enslaved together, Mary Dyer and Elizabeth Clark, who, in freedom, chose to unite their families, creating a legacy of unity and resilience,” Ward said. "This story not only enriches our understanding of the past, but also reminds us of the power of family and community in overcoming adversity."

General Public Member Carmen Jordan-Cox said it was a powerful experience.

“It reminded us that we need to spend a lot of time as individuals and collectively to try to restore these cemeteries and handle the remains properly. Also, to make sure we don’t make some of the mistakes we’ve made in the past,” Jordan-Cox said.

ACHP Chair Sara Bronin said Mt. Zion reinforced for her the importance of the ACHP’s Burial Sites, Human Remains, and Funerary Objects policy statement, which aims to promote sound public policies that can protect and enhance cemeteries like this one, which have been inadequately cared for and are threatened.

The group then toured Tudor Place’s exhibit, Ancestral Spaces: People of African Descent at Tudor Place, which Ward said “connected us to the enduring spirit and contributions of all of those enslaved there.” The exhibit includes photos of the descendants of the enslaved workers and information about their lives there.

“The exhibit is illustrative of the profound work that preservationists are doing across the country to expand judgment on whose histories deserve to be told,” Chair Bronin said. “The visit energized me to continue to pursue the path ACHP members have set: to do all we can to recognize past wrongs – including omissions – and to forge a more inclusive path.” 

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