washington dc solo trip

Washington D.C. Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Washington D.C. ? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

• The capital of the United States of America, Washington D.C. ( District of Columbia ) has a metro population of 5.7 million (~701,000 live in the Federal district).
• D.C. is the center for all three branches of the US Federal Government – Congress, the President, and the Supreme Court. Home to over 175 foreign embassies .
• Since 1973, a locally elected mayor and 13-member council have governed the District. Congress maintains authority over the city and may overturn local laws as it sees fit (Washington DC is not a part of any state).
• The city contains the headquarters of many international organizations , including the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank.
• Nicknames: D.C., The District, The Federal City, The American Rome, Hollywood for Ugly People, District of Crime, District of Corruption (many nicknames are in jest).

PRACTICAL INFORMATION

• Currency:  US Dollar  (USD)
• Spoken languages:  English .
• Best time to visit: from  March  to  June , and from September to November (summer time is hot and humid, and winters can be snowy).
• Arriving via airport: the Metro operates a bus between Dulles International Airport (IAD) and downtown – a single journey is $6. Taxi fare between Dulles and downtown is $70. The airport shuttle costs $10. If you’re arriving via Ronald Reagan Airport, a bus downtown costs $2, while a taxi ride will be $15.

WHERE TO STAY

• Best hostel for solo travelers: Generator Washington DC . Friendly staff, clean and spacious rooms (cleaned daily), and a short walk to the main museums and attractions in town. Very hotel-like. Book ahead, because accommodation in D.C. fills up fast.
• Good (safe) areas to stay at include: Dupont Circle ,  Georgetown , Foggy Bottom , McPherson Square , and  Penn Quarter . The city centre, close to the Mall and public buildings, is home to the more upscale accommodations in the city.
• When staying outside of the city, try to find something close to the metro system.

GETTING AROUND

• The Washington Metro operates buses and rail in the D.C. area. You must have exact change, and fares change based on what time of day it is. Fares increase during rush hour, and from midnight to close on Friday and Saturday. Peak fares are a minimum of $2.25. Off-peak fares are $1.85 minimum. Buying a pre-paid card is the easiest way to travel. Unlimited 1-Day passes are $13.00.
• Metro escalator etiquette : walk on the left, stand on the right!
• Circulator buses are visitor friendly and run to all of the key tourist destinations in the city. For $1 you can hop on a bus that runs every 10 minutes.
• Note : keep an eye on your belongings when riding on public transportation. If you’re carrying a purse, don’t take it off your shoulder. Don’t set your smartphone down on the seat, and keep an eye on your surroundings. Thefts are common in D.C.
• DC is a busy government hub – it is a good idea to avoid the metro system during peak morning and evening hours. Don’t waste two hours a day battling metro traffic!
• Taxis are available all over Washington DC and run $0.25 for every 1/6 mile.
• Rental cars are readily available, though driving in Washington DC is not easy or recommended. Frequent street direction changes and limited parking can make even a GPS user go crazy driving in the city. Locals avoid driving downtown, and typically take the metro in.

WASHINGTON DC NIGHTLIFE

• Drinking age is  21 , and last call is at  2:00 AM (3 AM on Fridays and Saturdays).
• Note: Washington D.C. is a very  classist city – people tend to hang out with their socioeconomic counterparts. You may be asked (rather quickly) about your education, upbringing, and occupation.
• The hottest clubs in DC are in the  Adams Morgan , Dupont Circle , and Logan Circle areas.
• For a more low key (and cheaper) experience consider heading to U and 14th Street in Shaw or the area around Georgetown .
• Stop by Wunder Garten for great drinks in a relaxed bar atmosphere.

UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT

• The Washington Monument is a quintessential symbol of Washington DC. Take a trip up to the top for a breathtaking view of the city.
• Making a trip through the Smithsonian is a must do when traveling to DC. The amazing array of exhibits and historical relics at this renowned institute is worth the visit.
• The Holocaust Museum  is one of the most extensive and educational collections related to this dark chapter of human history. Not for the faint of heart.
• The Library of Congress is the research library for the United States Congress, and the de facto official library of the United States. The library is home to over 32 million books and printed works in 470 languages, and is the largest collection of rare books in North America. The Library of Congress contains one of the three perfect vellum copies of the Gutenberg Bible, and a draft of the Declaration of Independence. Tour the library and take in any number of historically significant exhibits.
• Owned by the Smithsonian, the Arts and Industries Building is one of the oldest museums in the country. Designed in 1876 to hold exhibits from the Philadelphia Centennial Exposition, the building is considered to be one of the most endangered landmarks in America and is currently undergoing extensive renovations.
• Located at 13th and K, the  Franklin School  is where Alexander Graham Bell conducted his first successful wireless communication (in 1880).
• Note: security at a lot of the different sites and museums is very heavy. No food, bottled water, liquids, gels of any kind. Make sure that you are polite with security officials and respectful of their instructions. Not doing so can quickly ruin your trip. You give implied consent for your property and person to be searched when entering a government building or public event.

INTERESTING WALKS

• Taking time to explore The Mall in central DC can make for a very interesting day. Many of the nation’s most prominent monuments are located somewhere along the mall, including: the Vietnam War Memorial , the Lincoln Monument , The Washington Monument , and the World War II Memorial . North of the Mall you will find the White House, Embassy Row, and a variety of museums.
• The Smithsonian Sculpture Garden is on the grounds of the National Mall, and is open from 7:30 AM until sunset. Stroll through and see sculptures by Matisse, Rodin, and Moore.
• Take a walk through the peaceful Arlington Cemetery , one of the most important burial grounds in America. You can see President J.F.K.’s grave, the home of Robert E. Lee, the Memorial Amphitheater, and the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns .
• Walk along the Georgetown Waterfront  and you will be rewarded by gorgeous views of Roosevelt Island, the D.C. skyline, and the Potomac River. Between the labyrinth and the shops/restaurants, there is more than enough to keep you occupied.
• The Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park is one of the most beautiful and relaxing places in the District. Just a 10 minute walk from the Smithsonian Metro Station, the Tidal Basin is home to the Jefferson Memorial. Dozens of cherry trees have been planted surrounding the basin, and thousands of visitors come for the National Cherry Blossom Festival every year.

LOCAL WISDOM

• Day trip idea: take a trip out to  Mount Vernon , the estate of George Washington. The grounds are extensive and offer good views of the  Potomac  river.
• The cost of living is very high in the District. Make sure to plan to spend a little more than you usually do on food and accommodation.
• The District is a national center for the arts with some of the best ballet, opera, and symphonies in the nation. Before you start booking your trip, look to see if there are any festivals or performances going on. Note: hotel room prices spike considerably during festivals.
• Great food to try: Call Your Mother (bagels – multiple locations), Bread Furst (bakery), Federalist Pig (BBQ), La Diplomate ($$$ – brunch), Beau Thai ($$), Duke’s Grocery (burgers).
• Where to find good cheap eats:  ethnic foods can be found all over DC. Consider checking out Little Ethiopia and Chinatown for some good eats.
• Dangerous areas : avoid Southeast DC, Northeast DC, and East of Anacostia. If in Adams Morgan, Chinatown, or Georgetown, try not to wander into the dimly lit areas. Exercise caution when walking alone at night. Keep in mind that DC has some of the highest crime rates in America.

Recommended trip duration:  3-4 days

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Home > United States > 44 Things To Do Alone in Washington DC: Solo Travel in Washington DC

44 Things To Do Alone in Washington DC: Solo Travel in Washington DC

By Dymphe / April 14, 2023

Looking for things to do alone in Washington DC ? Solo travel in Washington DC is amazing because there are so many activities!

Washington DC is one of the most well-known cities in the United States . That's because of all the famous sights. For example, you can find the White House in the city.

Besides all the famous sights, Washington DC has more to offer! There are many beautiful places in the city and great activities.

Furthermore, solo travel in Washington DC is also great! That's because there are countless things to do when you're alone in the city.

There are many activities during which you can meet new people, get to know the city or have a great time by yourself! Whatever you're looking for during your solo travels in Washington DC, it's there.

Below are the 44 best things to do alone in Washington DC.

Table of Contents

1. Do a Free Walking Tour: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC To Get To Know the City

When you are alone in the city of Washington DC you should definitely do a free walking tour. This is one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC.

One of the best of these is the one by DC by Foot. Their National Mall Tour is very interesting.

Together with a group and a good guide you'll explore the sights of the National Mall. You'll walk by the Washington Monument, the WWII Memorial, and more sights. Along the way, you get very interesting information.

Furthermore, you can ask the guide everything you want!

What's great as well is that it is a great place to make new friends from the group of people that also does the walk! That's why this is amazing for solo travel in Washington DC.

2. Explore the City by Yourself with a Self-Guided Walking Tour

Another one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC is a self-guided tour. For this, it's only you and the city, nothing else, which is a great experience!

This is the perfect way to discover the city on your own!

You can listen to an audio guide that allows you to learn a lot about the places you are walking along.

What's great is that you can decide your own pace. So it's great for solo travel in Washington DC.

DC Walkabout is where you find a few audio guides that are great for exploring the city alone!

3. Tour the White House

When you are in Washington DC, it is great to see the White House. The outside is great to see, but the inside is even better.

You can do a self-guided tour of the building where you can completely focus on the White House, which is awesome! This is one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC for sure.

Be sure to send a request before visiting, otherwise, you cannot do the tour.

4. See the National Mall During a Tour by Electric Vehicle

Of course, you could walk at the National Mall and explore the sights. But you can also do a National Mall group tour by electric vehicle ! It's incredible for solo travel in Washington DC!

This is a great way to see many of the most famous sights!

Furthermore, it is great that you are doing this tour with other people, whom you can talk with during the tour! This makes it one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC.

5. Go Ping-Ponging at Spin: Great Thing to Do Alone in Washington DC To Make New Friends

If you love ping pong, this is one of the most fun things to do alone in Washington DC for you!

At Spin , you can ping pong with strangers.

You can watch very good ping pong players play a game here, which is great to see. But you can also play it yourself and make new friends! This makes this place great if you want to meet new people during solo travel in Washington DC.

One of the best things at Spin is Players' Night. This takes place every Friday night. During this event, you can play against a pro in a variety of games!

Furthermore, you can have a drink afterward here.

6. Go to an Event at the United States Botanic Garden

Are you in Washington DC and want to see nature? Then, go to an event at the United States Botanic Garden !

This garden is a beautiful place with lots of great nature. There are a lot of different species of plants.

Moreover, there is a section with rare and endangered plants. Furthermore, there is a section with plants that grow in the desert.

Throughout the year, there are a lot of different types of events at the United States Botanic Garden.

For example, there are lectures, demonstrations, tours, and more events.

Also, what's interesting is that the garden dates back to the year 1820.

7. Join a Book Club

Another great activity to do in Washington DC when you are doing a solo trip is joining a book club! This is one of the most fun things to do alone in Washington DC if you love reading.

At the DC Public Library, you can attend The Audacious Books Read Along. This is an event that happens every fourth Tuesday of the month.

At the meetings of the book club, you are discussing a book together with strangers. This is a very fun activity to make some new friends and also it is very motivating if you want to read more! That's why it's perfect for solo travel in Washington DC.

There is a reading list with the books to read for every month of the year.

8. Have Dinner at a Communal Table: Amazing Thing to Do Alone in Washington DC to Meet New People

One of the best activities is having dinner at a communal table. It is the perfect way to meet new people!

It is great to have dinner together with others and there are several places for this in Washington DC!

One of the best places for this is Via Umbria . Here you can attend "Dinner at the Chef's Table" every Friday and Saturday.

During this event, you can try out delicious Italian food while sitting with others.

9. Go to the National Museum of Natural History and Attend a Lecture

The National Museum of Natural History is one of the best museums in Washington DC. The museum is amazing for solo travel in Washington DC.

It is a museum without an admission fee, which always makes it a great place to visit.

Here, you find a collection of plants, rocks, fossils, and much more. In fact, you find here the largest collection of natural history in the world, which is incredible!

Besides seeing the collection of the museum, you can also attend a lecture here. Attending one of the lectures is one of the most interesting things to do alone in Washington DC.

There are lectures here that focus on certain parts of natural history. This is very interesting to experience together with others. Furthermore, it allows you to learn a lot of new things!

10. Rent a Bike and Explore the City

There are many places in the city where you can rent a bike. This is a great way to explore the city on your own, which is awesome!

There are many biking trails in the city of Washington DC.

Some are more scenic than others. And some go by the famous sights of the city.

Also, the bike is a great way to move around in the city during your solo trip to Washington DC!

11. Do a Food Tour With a Local: Perfect Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC If You Love Food

Also one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC is to do a Washington DC food tour with a local .

During a tour, you can try out the best food at the Union Food Market. Union Food Market is a great place with a large variety of food!

Doing a food tour is great if you are traveling solo. That way you can find out new food you might like, and you can dine together with others!

12. Join a Guided Cycleboat Ride Tour at Potomac Paddle Club

You find this next one of the best things to do for solo travel in Washington DC at Potomac Paddle Club .

Here you can do a guided cycleboat ride.

You can do a mixed tour where you can see some of the most famous sights of the city from the water.

Together with others, you cycle while sitting at a table to paddle the boat.

During the boat ride, you can have drinks as well, which is great!

The mixed tour is a great way to make some new friends!

13. Do a Stand-up Paddleboard Yoga Class: Nice Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC That’s Very Unique

This is definitely one of the most unique solo activities in Washington DC.

When you are in the city you can do a stand-up paddleboard yoga class. You need to have experience in paddleboarding before doing this class. The company Boating in DC offers the class.

During this class, you do yoga on a paddleboard on the water. This is both a very relaxing and challenging experience.

Furthermore, you are doing this class together with other people, which is very fun!

The class lasts 60 minutes in total.

14. Go for a Run With a Group

Another one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC is to go for a run with a group.

Ladies Run Washington DC is a group that organizes ladies runs throughout the years. These runs are great for both beginners and experts. Keep in mind that this is for ladies only.

These runs are lovely if you want to meet new friends! Furthermore, it is a great way to get active when you are in the city of Washington DC.

15. Go to a Lecture at the Library of Congress: Great Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC That’s Very Interesting

This is one of the most interesting activities. The Library of Congress is the national library of the United States. You can find this place on Capitol Hill.

What's amazing about this place is that it is one of the largest of its kind in the world!

You find here books and other material from all over the world. There are more than 38 million books at the library.

You should definitely go here to explore the library from the inside during your solo trip. It's one of the most fun things for solo travel in Washington DC for sure.

Besides that, there are many lectures at the Library of Congress.

These lectures are great to attend and are about a variety of topics.

Here you can learn a lot, which is great! Furthermore, it allows you to connect with others when you are in Washington DC.

16. Go to an Event at the United States National Arboretum

The U.S. National Arboretum is a beautiful arboretum with a lot of nature. Going to an event at the arboretum is one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC with nature.

There are a lot of beautiful trees here. Moreover, there is a large variety of trees here, which is great!

Furthermore, there are several gardens at the U.S. National Arboretum. These different gardens all contain different types of trees.

For example, there is a section with flowering trees that are very pretty.

The events that you can attend here include art exhibits, workshops, and tours.

17. See the City From a Segway Through a Tour

Another great way to explore the city is while riding a segway. You can do so during a Washington DC segway tour , which is perfect for solo travel in Washington DC.

During the tour, you'll explore some of the most famous landmarks of the city.

You drive by the White House, the Capitol Building, and more.

What's great is that you are doing this tour together with other people. Thus it is a great way to make new friends, with whom you can explore the city!

18. Do a Tour and Explore the Street Art of Washington DC: Amazing Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC For Art Lovers

This is another one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC. You can explore the street art of the city during a tour. The name of this tour is " Explore the Street Art of DC / NoMa ".

During this tour, you'll see great street art and murals in the neighborhood of NoMa.

There are lots of artworks, and you'll see both old and new works.

What's great is that you'll learn about the different artworks as well.

Another great thing about doing this street art tour is that it is together with other people. This makes it possible to meet new people which is great during solo travel in Washington DC.

19. Watch the Senate in Session

If you're looking for things to do alone in Washington DC, a great activity is watching the Senate in session. You can do so whenever the Senate is in session!

It is an interesting thing to experience alone. That's because you can focus on what the Senate says without thinking about anything else! This makes for a very unique experience.

20. Join Art Classes at The Amazing Art Studio

Another activity for your solo trip to Washington DC is to take part in art classes. You can do that at The Amazing Art Studio!

At this studio, you can do a large variety of classes together.

For example, together with others, you'll learn how to paint on canvas! This is very fun and a great way to make new friends.

Also, you can paint pottery, make glass art, work on board art, and do much more at this studio. Furthermore, you can go here more often to do classes. This can be great if you live in Washington DC.

21. Do a Nighttime Trolley Tour of Washington DC

Doing a nighttime trolley tour of DC is very interesting for solo travel in Washington DC.

This is a guided trolley tour that takes place when it is dark outside. And during it, you can see the lights of the city, which is amazing to see.

Moreover, during the tour, you will see some of the most famous sights in the city. For example, you'll visit the National Mall during this tour. And you get information about those sights at the same time.

22. Go to Classical Music Events Through a Meetup Group: Nice Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC If You Like Music

Do you like classical music? Then, this might be one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC for you.

You can join " The DC Classical Music Meetup Group ".

Through this group, you can connect with others in the city to go to opera and classical music events. This makes attending the event more fun and it is a great way to make new friends in the city.

23. Do a Secret Doors and Themed Rooms Tour

Want to do something unique during solo travel in Washington DC? Then the " Explore Secret Doors & Themed Rooms " experience is great!

During this experience, you do a self-guided tour of the O Street Museum and explore themed rooms. These rooms contain secret doors that are great to see.

Also, the building here is very historic, which makes it even more fun to visit the museum.

24. Do a Tour of the US Capitol

The United States Capitol is the building of the United States Congress.

One of the most interesting things to do alone in Washington DC is to see the building. And what's even more interesting is to do a tour of the building.

During the tours, you can see the US Capitol from the inside and learn about the building from a guide.

Keep in mind, that you need to make a reservation if you want to do a tour here.

25. Play Games With a Group: Incredible Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC To Make Friends

If you like to play games, you can join the " DC Gaming Group ". I'm sure you'll love this group if you want to have fun during solo travel in Washington DC.

This is a group that organizes gaming events in the city. And you can join these events and play games with a group of other people, which is a lot of fun.

The group organizes all kinds of gaming events. For example, there are console games and pc games during these events, but also tabletop games.

26. Join a Bracelet-Making Workshop

Here's one of the unique things to do alone in Washington DC which is great if you like to be creative.

You can do a DC bracelet-making workshop .

During this, you'll learn all the techniques that you need to make your own bracelet.

Also, you get the tools to do this, and then you can make the bracelet yourself.

Furthermore, this experience includes a tour of a jewelry studio, which is interesting.

And what's great is that this experience is a small group experience. This means that you can socialize with others during this workshop!

27. Do a Garden Tour at the Hillwood Estate

The Hillwood Estate is the former home of Marjorie Merriweather Post.

At the estate, you can find a decorative arts collection. This collection includes, among other objects, Fabergé eggs. Also, there is art at this place.

Besides that, there is a beautiful garden at the Hillwood Estate. And doing a tour of the garden is one of the best activities for solo travel in Washington DC if you like nature.

These are guided tours during which you can learn about the garden, which can be very interesting!

28. Do a Washington DC Monuments Bike Tour: Nice Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC To Learn About the City

A great way to explore the city during solo travel in Washington DC is by doing a DC monuments bike tour .

During this tour, you'll see historic monuments in the city by bike.

For example, you'll visit the Washington Monument during this tour.

Along the way, a guide gives you a lot of information about what you see. So you can learn a lot by attending this tour.

Also, because this is a tour by bike, you can see a lot of places in a short amount of time, which is great!

29. Join a Classic and Indie Movie Club

If you like classic and indie movies, this is one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC for you.

You can join the " DC Classic and Indie Movie Club ".

This movie club connects people in the city to see classic and indie movies together. The group organizes events for this.

Also, the events end with having a drink or food to discuss the movie together. This makes seeing the movies even more fun. And these discussions are also great if you want to socialize with others!

30. Join a Free Guided Tour of the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a large performing arts theater. More than 2000 shows and events take place here every year.

One of the most interesting things to do alone in Washington DC is to join a free guided tour of the center.

During this tour, you can see some of the highlights of the center. Also, you can see places that the regular public doesn't visit.

31. Go to the National Postal Museum and Join a Docent-Led Tour

The National Postal Museum is an interesting place to go to during solo travel in Washington DC.

At this place, you can learn about postal history.

And a great way to get the best experience here is by doing a docent-led tour of the museum. Through this tour, you can see the highlights of the museum.

32. Join a Guided Night Bike Tour of Washington DC: Perfect Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC At Night

Doing a night bike tour of Washington DC is a very unique experience.

If you want to explore the city's sights in a unique way, this is one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC for you.

During this tour, you'll visit the National Mall and see some of the most iconic sights of the city at night. It is very beautiful to see the illuminated sights.

Also, at the same time, a local guide tells you about the sights. So you can learn a lot of new things through this night tour.

33. Join a Tour of the National Gallery With an Art Historian

This is also one of the most interesting activities during solo travel in Washington DC. You can do a curated tour of the National Gallery of Art with an art historian .

There is a lot of art to see at this museum and that's why this tour is great!

Through this tour, you can see the best works of art of the museum and get the best experience of the museum.

Also, because an art historian leads the tour, you can learn a lot about the art, which is very interesting!

34. Do a Behind-the-Scenes Tour of Nationals Park

Nationals Park is a baseball stadium that is the home of the Washington Nationals.

If you like baseball, you can see a game here.

Furthermore, you can do a public tour of Nationals Park. This tour is one of the most amazing things to do alone in Washington DC if you love sports. Through this, you can get a behind-the-scenes experience and see a lot of places in the stadium. For example, you can see places where the players often only are.

35. Join a Vegetarian Meetup Group: Very Nice Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC for Vegetarians

You can join the " Vegetarian Dining Club " is amazing. This is perfect for solo travel in Washington DC if you're vegan.

This is a group that organizes all kinds of vegetarian and vegan dining events.

Through the group, you can explore vegetarian and vegan restaurants. You connect with others and then have dinner at those restaurants.

This is a fun way to get to know the vegetarian and vegan restaurants of DC and a great way to make new friends.

36. Do a Full-Day Guided Tour of Washington DC and See the City’s Highlights

The " Washington DC in One Day " is a tour that takes about 6 hours.

The tour is perfect if you have a short amount of time in the city and want to do a tour of everything.

Through this tour, you can see the most famous sights in the city and learn a lot about those places from a guide.

You'll travel by coach from each sight to the other. And there are walking tours at the sights.

37. Join a Docent Tour of the National Portrait Gallery

At the National Portrait Gallery, you can see portraits of famous American people.

A docent-led tour of this museum is one of the most interesting things to do alone in Washington DC. During this, you'll learn about the highlights of the museum. This is a great way to experience the best that the museum has to offer.

38. Do a Guided Ghost Tour of Washington DC

The " DC Secrets and Scandals Ghost Tour " is a tour that takes place in the evening. This tour is one of the most unique activities for solo travel in Washington DC.

During it, you'll visit several haunted places in the city.

At each spot, you can learn about the history and stories of that place. This can be very spooky!

Also, what's great about this tour is that you can see the city's famous buildings at night.

39. Go to the National Building Museum: Very Interesting Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC If You Love Art

The National Building Museum is a museum that focuses on architecture and construction.

You can attend interesting exhibitions at this museum that often change.

And these exhibitions focus on very specific topics of architecture or design. For example, one exhibition at this place focused on animal sculptures.

40. Hike With a Group in Washington DC

Do you like hiking? Then joining a hiking group is one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC.

You can join the " Sunday hikers of MoCo " Meetup group.

This group organizes hikes that take place on Sundays. These are light hikes that are great to explore new places with other people. Also, the hikes are a great way to get active and make friends at the same time. This makes the group perfect for solo travel in Washington DC!

41. Join a Guided Walking Tour of Capitol Hill

You can do a guided walking tour of Capitol Hill .

To be more specific, this tour focuses on the US Capitol and the Library of Congress.

During the tour, you visit both of these buildings and do a small-group walking tour. Your guide will give you a lot of information about history and politics. And you get to see the buildings from the inside, which is very interesting.

42. Ride a Hop-On Hop-Off Bus in Washington DC: Great Thing To Do Alone in Washington DC To Explore the City

Do you want to see the sights during solo travel in Washington DC? A hop-on hop-off bus tour of Washington DC is also a great way to explore the city.

This is a bus that follows a special sightseeing route in the city. This route goes along some of the most famous landmarks in the city.

For example, it rides along the Lincoln Memorial, the US Capitol, and the National Monument.

Along the way, you can listen to live commentary and learn new things.

What's great is that you can hop off the bus when you are at a sight that you want to explore. And once you want to continue the tour, you can hop on the bus again!

If you want to get to know the city, this is definitely one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC.

43. Do a Docent-Led Guided Tour of the National Archives Museum

The National Archives Museum is a very interesting museum. You can find the original Declaration of Independence and other important documents here.

During solo travel in Washington DC, you can do a guided docent-led tour of this museum.

During this, a guide will show you the museum's highlights in about one hour. And at the same time, you get a lot of information, which is very interesting!

44. Do a Self-Guided Tour of the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a very interesting museum. You can find a very large collection of objects related to natural history here.

What's great is that you go here for free and you can do a self-guided tour of the museum.

If you want to learn new things about the earth, this tour is one of the best things to do alone in Washington DC

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• North America
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• A Solo Travelers Guide To...

A Solo Traveler's Guide to Washington, D.C.

“Nobody can discover the world for somebody else. Only when we discover it for ourselves does it become common ground and a common bond and we cease to be alone.” – Wendell Berry

Traveling solo is exhilarating because you can explore a new destination on your terms without being encumbered by someone else’s wants, needs, or limitations, creating opportunities for intimate, personal experiences that are distinctly individual. From incredible parks for running and hiking to a smorgasbord of cultural, architectural, and historical sites, Washington, D.C. just screams solo travel. Almost anything people do as a group you can do alone and have just as much fun, so read on for how to enjoy your solo visit to Washington, D.C.

Do your homework

Before you do anything, read as much as you can about Washington, D.C. and its history, attractions, museums, travel costs, neighborhoods, and transportation. Not sure when it’s best to go? Shoot for March to June or late September to early December; summers in D.C. are humid and hot – triple-digit hot – and winter is famously unpredictable with epic snowstorms one week and mild weather the next. Destination DC , Washington, D.C.’s official tourism and convention office, is a terrific planning and information resource.

The nation’s capital security concerns are a big part of daily life, and it’s not uncommon to have alerts, public demonstrations, crime, and other interruptions to activities. Destination DC’s comprehensive Safety Guide has details on the different security and safety organizations and programs, how to be safe while visiting, and resources in case of an emergency.

Where to stay

Nothing is as important as a good night’s sleep and a delicious breakfast; otherwise, you won’t have the energy you need to make the most of your stay. Choosing the right kind of hotel and neighborhood are paramount because not all of D.C.’s neighborhoods and hotels are close to museums, the Metro, and other attractions. The best neighborhoods include Dupont Circle, Upper Georgetown, and Penn Quarter.

Tip: Hotels in Washington can be pricey, but a perfect compromise is a boutique or lifestyle hotel. In Upper Georgetown, Melrose Hotel and Avenue Suites are good choices; they include breakfast, are close to Foggy Bottom Metro, and in the case of Avenue Suites, provide guests with options for yoga classes and a running buddy with a staff member. Dine at Melrose’s Jardenea Restaurant for a fabulous meal or relax at the elegant bar in the lobby; both are popular with residents and guests.

Tip: You can’t beat being close to the action in the Convention Center/Penn Quarter area, but sometimes you want to be just far enough away to avoid the noise; if so, consider staying at the Morrison-Clark Historic Inn . It’s just four blocks from the Mt. Vernon-Convention Center Metro station, and a short walk away is CityCenter DC in Penn Quarter, which has premium shopping and a variety of restaurants like Bibiana Osteria Enoteca and DBGB Kitchen and Bar .

Tip: Feel like a local when you stay at the Kimpton Hotel Palomar on P Street in Dupont Circle. If you are an adventurous eater, try the affordable and authentic Afghan food at Food Corner Kabob House – the name is weird, but the food is good – or enjoy the diversity of Turkish cuisine at Ezme .

Practical information

Tip: Learn a bit of Metro etiquette to avoid annoying the locals, especially during rush hour. Travel on the Metro before or after rush hour, and you’ll avoid crowds and save money on your fare, and be sure to stand to the right on the escalator to let people pass. And buy your Smartrip fare card in advance to save time and avoid long lines.

Go ahead and be a tourist

The most efficient way to visit Washington is to do all the touristy things first, and then explore the real city – the one the locals love. The cheapest and easiest way to do this is with a hop-on, hop-off tour . In no time at all, you can tick off your list of sites , plus this is a smashing way to meet a potential travel buddy or a new friend. If you aren’t simpatico with anyone, no problem. Just hop off and take a stroll along the Tidal Basin or ride a paddle boat . The gardens, cherry trees, and Jefferson Memorial are stunning. Once done, you can hop back on and head to the National Mall to photograph the views of the US Capitol and Washington Monument . Hop back on day two, and plot your visit to the Smithsonian museums . Day three, be a culture vulture and immerse yourself in Impressionist paintings, rare Tuscan Renaissance ceramic sculptures, and modern art at the National Gallery of Art , followed by a tour of the White House .

Tip: Take the hop-on, hop-off moonlight tour of the monuments; the views are spectacular, and it’s less crowded.

Don’t be lonely

Being in a strange new city alone can be daunting even for old hands. By choosing the right restaurants, activities, and tours, you can safely meet locals and other travelers by taking a walking food tour with fellow foodies, taking a class or attending a lecture , and attending wine tastings . If you want to connect with locals or other travelers before you arrive, find a platonic dinner companion, or share a tour or museum visit with a new travel buddy – there are apps for that.

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Places to Stay

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How to take a perfect solo trip to washington dc.

FMTC Affiliate Disclosure: Blond Wayfarer contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I earn a commission at no extra cost to you. This disclosure pertains to all affiliate links.

Have you ever thought about taking a solo trip to Washington DC?  Sure, several people contemplate taking a long solo trip to Italy or Spain, but at the same time, a lot of Americans (I live in the USA, so I would know) prefer to stay closer to home, especially if it’s their first time traveling alone.

I certainly don’t blame them! In particular, Washington DC is home to so many outstanding museums, including the famous Smithsonians.

With so many museums, the USA’s capital feels like a solo traveler’s dream come true. I never tire of wandering museums alone.

I wanted to write this guide to help other solo travelers plan an adventure in Washington DC. But first, I want to talk about why I loved Washington DC so much.

Table of Contents

My Solo Trip to Washington DC

I took a weekend trip to Washington DC on a complete whim. I hadn’t been to DC since I was ten years old, and I barely remember anything that happened on that whirlwind bus tour several years ago. 

Not to mention, I wanted to take advantage of living so close to an Amtrak station and enjoy a trip that didn’t require me to board a plane. I’ll fly, obviously, but as a fearful flyer, trips to the airport feel exhausting at times. It was refreshing to take a break from the skies.

Oh my god, I don’t know what took me so long to visit Washington DC. I had the absolute greatest time here, and would highly recommend this gem of a city to anyone – even if they only have 24 hours in Washington DC .

Washington DC is no stranger to tourists. Actually, that would be an understatement, haha.

Washington DC has so, so,  so many museums, government buildings, day trips, and guided tours that it’s literally impossible to see and do everything in such a short amount of time. You could visit Washington DC once a month and still only skim the surface. 

On my solo trip to Washington DC, I met plenty of lovely people and learned a lot about American and world history in some world-class museums. I never once felt unsafe or uncomfortable, and I would absolutely visit Washington DC alone in the future. 

After having such a great time, I knew I wanted to share my experiences and suggestions with all of you. 

Best Reasons to Travel Solo to Washington DC

So why should you choose Washington DC for your next solo trip? Despite the free attractions, it’s not a cheap city, so it’s still important to weigh the pros and cons.

I could talk forever about this topic, haha, but no one has time for a novel on the internet.

So, here are three reasons why you ought at least consider a trip to the District.

City for Personal Reflection

Washington DC is home to many monuments and museums, which will provoke deep thought that is more poignantly felt alone.

For example, I walked around the World War II Memorial at night, and thought about what it must have felt like for my grandparents growing up as the world seemed to fall completely apart. 

While a more serious reason to take a solo trip, I still think having quiet time to contemplate our nation’s past is important, especially in a world that never seems to “shut up.”

Reflect. You’ll feel like a more aware person and even better citizen.

Easy First Solo Trip

Over all, Washington DC is an easy solo trip for new travelers. I talk a lot about wonderful cities to travel alone in the United States   and think DC belongs on that list too. 

Washington DC sees so, so, so many tourists. You won’t stand out as “weird” for exploring Washington DC alone. On the contrary.

Actually, I encountered quite a few solo travelers on my visit here! While I’ve been to some destinations that are popular for couples and friends, I didn’t feel the same vibe in Washington DC and was welcomed for my adventurous spirit. 

So I suggest heading on a solo trip to Washington DC if you’re new to traveling alone and want to melt into the crowd. 

Fantastic Tourism Infrastructure

In addition, Washington DC has an outstanding tourism infrastructure in place. You will find an endless amount of attractions and tours to keep yourself super busy.

If anything, Washington DC feels a little overwhelming, because there is  so much  to see and do in the capital of the United States. You won’t ever run out of things to do or experience boredom, even though you’re alone.

Your accommodation will give you suggestions too!

8 Things to Do on a Solo Trip to Washington DC

Do you need even more specifics? Never fear. These are some of the best things to do on a solo trip to Washington DC.

As always, I’m aware that every solo traveler is different and has different expectations for their trips. Feel free to dig deeper into a guidebook to Washington DC to plan even more specific details for your trips.

Eat Dinner in Georgetown 

Do you want to see a cute neighborhood in DC with plenty of cobblestone streets and yummy eats? Then don’t skip Georgetown on your solo trip to Washington DC. I absolutely fell in love with Georgetown, everyone. 

I personally think Georgetown is a great neighborhood to experience once you’re finished sightseeing for the day. You’ll have plenty of delightful mom and pop restaurants at your fingertips, but keep in mind that Georgetown is especially popular on Friday and Saturday. My advice is to eat early or late at a place that has plenty of bar seating. 

On my own trip, I enjoyed a delicious pizza dinner at il Canale, which was bustling and super fun. However, if you want a small and tasty treat in Georgetown, then opt for the cupcakes. Georgetown has so many cupcake places including Georgetown Cupcakes, Sprinkles, and Baked & Wired. 

Explore DC’s Monuments at Night

Even as a solo traveler, you’ll feel safe seeing the monuments at the National Mall at night. Nighttime in Washington DC will truly take your breath away. It’s …  gorgeous. 

Personally, I suggest joining a guided tour for your nighttime monument experience. The National Mall is incredibly big, and even on a guided tour with a bus, it can take up to three hours to see all the most important monuments. 

I highly recommend booking a 3 hour small group tour of the monuments . While a little more expensive than the big bus tours, the smaller group will connect you more closely with people. I loved this tour so much.

Our guide was brilliant and in the process of earning a law degree from Georgetown. Furthermore, everyone I met on the tour was super sweet  and kind. Another solo traveler and I even went for drinks afterwards! 

Ultimately, seeing the monuments at night isn’t something you want to miss on a solo trip to Washington DC. It’s magical. Truly.

Go to the Holocaust Museum

While emotionally difficult, the Holocaust Museum is best experienced alone. It’s crucial that we never forget the horrors of the Holocaust, and despite shedding tears, I appreciated learning from the exhibits in this museum and don’t know if it would have had the same emotional impact with another person talking to me. 

The Holocaust Museum doesn’t hold anything back, which is important. 

The Holocaust Museum now requires timed tickets and reserving a slot only costs $1. Be sure to reserve in advance as time slots book out, particularly in high season. 

Grab a Cocktail at Allegory

Washington DC is home to one of the coolest bars that I’ve ever visited in my life. Allegory is a hidden bar inside Eaton DC. At an initial glance, you’ll see that the bar’s artwork, decor, and menu were inspired by Alice in Wonderland , but through the eyes of Ruby Bridges. Talk about creative and thought-provoking. 

And don’t even get me started on the marvelous twists on the cocktails. Amazing. Allegory’s bartenders are talented, no doubt. 

My other suggestion is to come to Allegory early. This amazing bar fills up and fast. How do I know? From experience!

Me and another woman (who I met on the monuments tour, haha) waited over an hour to get inside, and while we had a wonderful time hanging out in the lobby, I definitely suggest coming here as early as possible for your drink! 

No reservations. Walk ins only. 

See Cherry Blossoms (Seasonal)

In Washington DC, cherry blossoms usher in warmer spring months.

The timing for the cherry blossoms vary from year to year, although late March and early April are good bets for seeing the flowers. Just make sure to check the climate predications ahead of time to avoid disappointment. This official website predicts the peak bloom every year. 

Keep in mind that Cherry Blossom season is one of the most expensive times to visit Washington DC, especially if you’re visiting on the weekends. Budget travelers need to be mindful about planning their visit and book well in advance to score the best deals on accommodation. 

Tour the Library of Congress

No doubt about it. The Library of Congress is absolutely gorgeous . Seriously, my jaw feel on the floor visiting this majestic library. Book lovers, in particular, shouldn’t skip the Library of Congress. 

The Library of Congress is a research library, and while you can’t wander the research area as a visitor, you can enjoy a stunning view looking down on students, professors, and intellectuals hard at work. 

Like many other attractions, the Library of Congress is free for visitors, but you need to reserve a time in advance. I suggest booking far ahead of time during the busier months to ensure you have a time slot. 

Lastly, if you have a tight itinerary and want to maximize your time on your solo trip to Washington DC, there are plenty of tours that will take you around Capitol Hill, but I recommend going inside. You won’t regret it.

Visit the Smithsonian Museums 

Words cannot describe how much I love the museums in DC. Seriously, without a doubt, one of the best parts of taking a solo trip to Washington DC is spending as much time as your heart desires in the Smithsonian Museums.

Another bonus is the Smithsonian museums are free to visitors. Some museums do require a reservation – notably the new Museum of African American History – and it’s important to book in advance to avoid disappointment. Do your research. 

Several Smithsonians are huge. You could easily spend hours in one museum, especially traveling alone without anyone telling you what to do and see (one of the bonuses, right?). So also stick to the topics that interest you.

Furthermore, if you want to learn in more depth, some private guides will do tours of the most famous Smithsonian museums, such as The Air and Space Museum and The Museum of Natural History . 

As an important side note, I totally understand that you’ll want to see as much as possible on a solo trip to Washington DC. It sucks to miss out on the Natural History Museum or The Museum of the American Indian.

However, the Smithsonians are huge and “museum burn out” is totally a real thing. I suggest a two museum limit per day to avoid feeling overwhelmed and exhausted. You can always come back again. The Smithsonians are not going anywhere. 

Wander the National Mall

The National Mall is truly spectacular. I arrived in Washington DC at night, and had a beautiful cab ride that went along the perimeter of the Mall. My heart skipped a beat. 

I know I already suggested seeing the National Mall at night, but don’t miss out on wandering in the day time too. Rent a bike if you want to cover a lot of the Mall. It’s huge. 

You won’t run out of sites to see at the National Mall. The Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial, several war memorials, and so much more. The National Mall is part of the National Park Service, and therefore, completely free to visitors. Use their guide to plan your daytime sightseeing. 

Solo Travel Washington DC: Essential Tips

Last but not least, I wanted to share some practical tips for your upcoming solo trip to Washington DC.

How to Get Around Washington DC

Washington DC is easy to navigate. 

Personally, I think the best way to experience Washington DC is on foot, particularly if you have good weather. The city is pedestrian friendly with an abundance of wide and sprawling sidewalks and cross walks. Furthermore, Washington DC has an abundance of bike rentals such as Unlimited Biking and Capital Rideshare. Bike lanes are also common around the city.

For longer distances, take advantage of the metro. Just keep in mind that Washington DC’s metro doesn’t run 24 hours of day. Late a night, rideshares, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available, as well as official city cabs. 

All in all, Washington DC is a breeze for solo travelers to get around and explore on their own terms. 

Is Washington DC Safe?

I don’t want to sugarcoat here. Washington DC is a large city, and crime rates aren’t exactly low. Violent crimes are down in recent years, but still higher than the national average. Furthermore, the political atmosphere in the United States is contentious, and as the nation’s capital, protests aren’t infrequent.

So, it’s understandable that some solo travelers will feel a little hesitation about visiting Washington DC without a partner or a buddy. I get it.

However, you’re unlikely to experience any serious issues as a solo traveler. On my own weekend getaway, I was only ever asked for money once, but otherwise, my solo trip to Washington DC was uneventful in the safety department. Common sense goes a long way here. 

In my honest opinion, I think the most solo travelers will enjoy DC and not have to worry too much about crime. 

Safety Tips for Your Solo Trip to Washington DC

• Avoid politically significant days.  Personally, with the political atmosphere in the United States, I wouldn’t feel comfortable visiting Washington DC on Election Day or Inauguration Day. I fully respect anyone’s right to protest, but at the same time, don’t want to get caught in one as a solo traveler. 
• Be mindful at night.  It’s very safe around the National Mall at night due the monuments’ popularity. However, I wouldn’t suggest going for a stroll at 3 am. to see them. Furthermore, you’ll want to exercise caution in other parts of DC at night. Public transportation is great here, but still take an Uber if you ever feel uncomfortable. 
• Get travel insurance.  If you’re an international traveler, then I highly recommend insurance if you are visiting the United States. Healthcare is good but, uh, expensive. My personal favorite is World Nomads . 
• Research neighborhoods.  As a tourist, I suggest staying in popular areas, such as Georgetown, Dupont Circle, National Mall, Adams Morgan, and Penns Quarter. You will also want to check the street that your accommodation is on. Is it a brightly lit street that is crowded, or a small side road that’s not as well-trafficked? Your comfort and safety come first.
• Stay Aware at Union Station:  Amtrak goes through Washington DC’s main station, Union Station. I suggest traveling at busy hours. I didn’t feel super uncomfortable waiting for my train. However, I still want to mention that a sizable homeless population lives inside Union Station and surrounding areas. While most will leave you alone, some of the homeless are aggressive. Honestly, I don’t think I’d feel comfortable if I was in Union Station at “off hours.” Keep an eye on your belongings and go to the Amtrak police if necessary. 
• Watch your belongings. As with any popular tourist destination, keep a close eye on your valuables. If you want to take an additional precaution, then take a Pacsafe bag with you. These bags have anti-theft properties to stop pickpockets and other thieves . 

Where to Stay in Washington DC

Washington DC has a ton of hostel and hotel options. I picked three choices for this guide, but make sure to do your own research and stay true to your budget.

I happened to splurge on this trip, but I realize that everyone has different expectations for their solo trip to Washington DC.

So plan accordingly.

Hotel & Hostel Ideas

• Eaton DC:   This trendy boutique hotel is a welcoming place and cultural hub. Eaton DC is also ideally located near many Smithsonian museums and Capitol Hill. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• HighRoad Washington DC:   This adorable pod hotel is perfect for young travelers who want to meet other people. Located right in the heart of the popular Adams Morgan neighborhood. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .
• Park Hyatt in Georgetown: Haha, I stayed at the Park Hyatt, and it was honestly a big splurge for me. As a solo traveler, sometimes it feels great to be pampered. So, if you want to enjoy a sophisticated stay in DC, then look no further than here. See prices on Expedia.com and Booking.com .

I hope you enjoyed reading my guide for taking a solo trip to Washington DC. Are you planning on visiting DC in the near future? What are you most excited about seeing and doing? 

Rachel Elizabeth

At 22, I took my first overseas trip to Bermuda. Took a break to follow the "American Dream." Had my self-esteem broken. Embarked on my first solo trip to Scotland at 26. The travel bug dug its way under my skin. I now book multiple trips a year.

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Solo Trip to Washington DC: 15 Things to Do in DC Alone

Have you been wondering About the Best Things to Do in DC Alone? I’ve got you covered!

So, you’ve taken the jump and finally booked that solo trip to Washington, DC. Congrats! In my opinion, it’s one of the best cities in the United States to visit solo because there are so many unique things to do in DC alone! I’ve traveled solo to Washington, DC on several occasions and I’ve also visited with friends and family. Still, even with numerous visits alongside loving companions, I can’t help but think that DC is best experienced solo–especially for the first time. 

The countless museums, restaurants, monuments, tours, and parks make DC one of the most thrilling destinations for solo travelers looking to indulge in art, history, unique cuisines, and perhaps even a bit of politics. You’ll never be short of things to do in DC by yourself considering the abundance of activities and attractions.

This blog post will help you narrow down possible choices for things to do in DC alone in preparation for your next solo trip. Not only will I highlight some of the main, most iconic things to do, but I’ll also share some of the more obscure things to do that are off-the-beaten-path. Plus, I’ll share some of my personal insights and provide answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about planning a solo trip to Washington, DC.

This post contains affiliate links. If you use these links to buy something, I may earn a commission. I use various programs to include affiliate links in my blog posts to keep my content free for all to read. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Should you choose to book through any of my links, thank you so much!

Make sure to book a hotel, hostel bed, or place to stay for your solo trip to Washington, DC!

15 Unique Things to Do in DC Alone

1. Go On a Self-Guided Mural Tour of the Adams Morgan Neighborhood

During one of my solo trips to Washington, DC, I stayed in the Adams Morgan neighborhood at HighRoad Hostel . Not only was I impressed with the abundance of great food in this neighborhood (falafel galore!), but I was equally as impressed by the colorful murals that decorated the streets. These public art pieces are amazing, and free to enjoy as you stroll through the area.

This self-guided mural tour is awesome, and gives you directions to see the murals for yourself. Not to mention it’s free to use and includes a bit of information about each mural!

Price : Free

Location : Adams Morgan Neighborhood — one of my favorite murals in this neighborhood can be found at 1941 Calvert St !

2. Visit the National Museum of African American History and Culture

This is one of the most impressive museums in all of Washington, DC, and it’s definitely one of my favorites. The museum focuses on showcasing the history, culture, and contributions of African Americans in the United States, as well as promoting an understanding of the African American experience.

I spent several hours at this museum, and I recommend you take as much time as you need to fully immerse yourself in it — don’t try to rush through it. I’d suggest spending about 3-4 hours here, but no less than 2 hours.

Personally, I preferred visiting this museum solo because there is a lot to read, interpret, and process throughout the museum. And a lot of the topics covered in the museum are complex and sensitive, thus you may find that visiting alone gives you the time and space needed to fully process the experience.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is open 10am to 5:30pm daily (except Mondays when the museum opens at 12pm).

Price : Free, timed-entry ticket required

Location : 1400 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560

This half-day tour highlights some of DC’s most significant African-American historical and cultural landmarks, and includes a timed-entry ticket to the museum at the end!

3. Go on a Tour of the U.S. Capitol Building

If you love history and architecture, you’ll love touring the U.S. Capitol Building. The Capitol Visitor Center has several interactive exhibitions, as well, for visitors to enjoy.

Most of the general tours visit the Rotunda, the Crypt, and the National Statuary Hall. Tours run every 10 minutes until 3:20pm every Monday-Saturday, and the Capitol Visitor Center is open on those days from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. You don’t need to make reservations in advance, though it’s recommended to ensure you’re able to get a space on one of the tours for the day. You can schedule a tour here !

Another great option if you’re planning to visit The Capitol Visitor Center is to go on a specialty tour. These are supplementary tour offerings that focus on providing a more in-depth tour experience within a range of different topics. I personally enjoyed the Votes for Women tour, but I’m sure all of the specialty tours are extremely interesting and worth doing. Pick one that interests you the most to enhance your Capitol Building experience!

The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center is open Monday through Saturday 8:30am to 4:30pm , with the last tour running at 3:20pm.

Price : Free, tour reservations recommended

Location : First St SE, Washington, DC 20515

For a private small-group tour, I recommend this walking tour that combines a visit to the US Capitol Building with a stop at the Library of Congress!

4. Visit Some of DC’s Most Famous Monuments and Memorials (At Night!)

Usually, the most popular monuments and memorials in Washington, DC are extremely crowded in the daytime. If you’re visiting in the summertime, it’s likely scorching hot among those crowds, too. I always recommend visiting these sites a night for a cooler (literally!), less crowded experience. Plus, I think visiting past dark provides a more interesting viewing perspective.

Some of the top sites to visit include the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, World War II Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Don’t forget about the FDR Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial! From the Lincoln Memorial, you also get a great view of the Washington Monument and its reflection. See my photos below for inspiration!

Price : Free, but small-group guided tours are available through 3rd-party companies

Location : All around Washington, DC

This 3-hour long nighttime tour highlights all of the most popular monuments and memorials around Washington, DC!

5. Admire the European Gothic Architecture of Georgetown University

Constantly cited as one of the most gorgeous campuses in the United States is Georgetown University. Did you know visitors can walk the grounds and admire the incredible Victorian Gothic architecture of famed Healy Hall and other prominent buildings on campus? It’s true!

You’ll feel like you’re in another era while walking among the towering campus buildings. In many ways, it feels a bit like Hogwarts! I visited Georgetown University’s campus during a solo trip to Washington DC in the fall and it was a phenomenal backdrop for my morning walk. Sipping coffee and admiring Healy Hall made me feel like a student again in the best ways!

Price : Free (I recommend buying a coffee to sip while you stroll the grounds!)

Location : 3700 O St NW, Washington, DC 20057

Check out this Black history-focused walking tour of the Georgetown neighborhood!

6. Bike or Walk the National Mall

The National Mall is incredibly vast. It covers an area of 146 acres, and spans nearly 2-miles in length. You could spend an entire day museum-hopping along the National Mall! It’s just as nice, though, to walk or bike the National Mall.

Not only is it a great workout, but you’ll have loads of fun people-watching and seeing all of the events happening on the lawn. It’s a vibrant, fun section of DC that is perfect for spending some alone time for reflection or experiencing a snippet life in the city. Pack a lunch or snack to enjoy somewhere along the Mall!

Price : Free (bike rentals start at $0.05/minute with Capital Bikeshare !)

Location : The National Mall

Go on a guided e-bike tour of the Mall! You’ll get to see a ton of popular and hidden spots while cruising around on an electric bike–how cool!

7. Visit The Renwick Gallery

The Renwick focuses primarily on American crafts and decorative arts from the 19th to 21st centuries, and the pieces on display are gorgeous! If you’re a decorative arts fan (like me), you’ll surely love this gallery.

The stunning staircase inside the entry is iconic, and reason alone to visit! It’s a smaller, quieter Smithsonian museum, which is part of why I love it. There are usually a couple exhibitions running in addition to the permanent collection, so be sure to check if something interests you ahead of your visit!

Renwick Gallery is open 10am to 5:30pm daily, and reservations are not needed.

Location : 1661 Pennsylvania Ave., NW, Washington, DC

8. Join a Food Tour of the Historic Georgetown Neighborhood

If you’re traveling solo, I highly recommend participating in a food tour or history tour. Going on a food tour has to be one of my favorite things to do in DC alone because this city is an awesome foodie city! For your trip in general, if you’re solo that means less food you’ll ultimately have to share.

Price : Food tours range in price, starting at $65/person

Location : Around the City

🎂 Foodies will LOVE this Georgetown Food Tour! 🎂

9. See the Cherry Blossoms (SPRING ONLY)

If you’ve ever seen photos of Washington, DC in the springtime, chances are you’ve seen pictures of the iconic cherry blossoms in full bloom around the Tidal Basin, Washington Monument, and East Potomac Park areas.

Every year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated to honor and celebrate the friendship of the United States and Japan. There are events, concerts, parades, and more at the festival! This year, the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington, DC will take place March 20th through April 14th .

Price : Free, tours available through 3rd-party companies for a fee

Location : Around Washington, DC, but predominantly in the Tidal Basin area and at the Washington Monument

🌸 If you’re visiting DC in the spring, you need to book this Cherry Blossom Bike Tour! 🌸

10. Read Our Founding Documents at the National Archives

If you’re a history nerd (like me), you might enjoy stopping by the National Archives to see the nation’s founding documents on display. Though you can’t pull a Ben Gates/Nicolas Cage, you can certainly admire the documents and learn about their significance while at the Archives.

Important to note : Taking close-up photos of the documents themselves is strictly prohibited but you can take photos in the Rotunda!

The National Archives Museum is open 10am to 5:30pm daily.

Location : 701 Constitution Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20408

11. Visit the National Gallery of Art (East and West Wings!)

If you’re attempting to visit the National Gallery of Art make sure to dedicate a full day to exploring both the East Wing and the West Wing! A common mistake visitors make at the National Gallery of Art is that they only visit sections in the West Wing, and they don’t even realize there is a whole other side to the museum!

The West Wing is home to European and American masterworks and features classic pieces such as Leonardo da Vinci’s  Ginevra de’ Benci and Claude Monet’s The Japanese Footbridge .

The East Wing is focused on modern and contemporary artworks with iconic works from Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Mark Rothko. Modern art is my favorite artistic period, which is why I adore the East Wing so much! Take a look at some of my favorite pieces from the East Wing above!

The National Gallery of Art is open 10am to 5pm daily.

Location : 6th St and Constitution Ave NW (West Building), 4th St and Constitution Ave NW (East Building)

12. Go on a Day Trip to Mount Vernon and Old Alexandria

Technically this recommendation takes you outside of the city, but it’s a great day trip to enjoy if you’re planning a solo trip to Washington, DC. There are tons of tour providers who lead day trips out to Mount Vernon, so make sure to read the reviews!

You can find a wide variety of tours to Mount Vernon from sites like Viator that differ based on group size, tour length, add-ons, and more.

Price : Prices vary

This is one of the top rated Mount Vernon tours on Viator, and it includes transportation from DC!

13. Spend the Afternoon at the National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery is a great spot to relax and unwind after a long morning of exploring Washington, DC. The courtyard inside the National Portrait Gallery is worth visiting in and of itself! The National Portrait Gallery is truly one of my favorite museums in all of D.C.! If you enjoy learning all about United States history and culture through artwork, you’ll likely love this museum, too.

My favorite section of the museum is the America’s Presidents gallery, which showcases the portraits of presidents and leaders of the U.S. This is a very popular section, though, so be warned that there may be a lot of foot traffic. I recommend going right when the museum opens or just before it closes to enjoy it with the smallest amount of people.

The National Portrait Gallery is open 11:30am to 7pm daily.

Location : 8th St NW & G St NW, Washington, DC 20001

14. See a Show at DAR Constitution Hall

Built in 1929, the Daughters of the American Revolution Constitution Hall is the largest concert hall in all of Washington, D.C.! It’s a gorgeous living, breathing piece of history and they run shows regularly–from concerts to comedy shows to podcast recordings.

Back in 2019, I attended a live taping of Pod Save the World hosted by Tommy Vietor and Ben Rhodes at DAR Constitution Hall. It was an awesome experience considering Pod Save the World is one of my favorite podcasts. Plus, the hall itself is beautifully designed and preserved.

Price : Ticket prices vary

Location : 1776 D St NW, Washington, DC 20006

You can find the schedule of events for DAR Constitution Hall here , or on Ticketmaster!

15. Browse Around an Open Air Market (or Walk Around a Christmas Market if You’re visiting in December!)

When I travel solo, I love visiting local farmer’s markets and art markets to get a feel for the energy of a city. If I’m staying in a place longer than a couple days, I usually use this activity as an excuse to stock up on local produce or unique snacks to enjoy during my visit.

If you’re in D.C. during the Christmas holiday, you will also find Christmas markets popping up around the city! I went to the Downtown Holiday Market in Penn Quarter this past Christmas and it was adorable! There are so many cute photo opps and stalls to explore.

Location : All around the city

Personal Recommendations for Your Solo Trip to Washington DC

Whether you’ve already booked your solo trip to Washington, DC, or you’re still in the planning stages, I’ve got you! Aside from all of the fun things to do in DC by yourself that I’ve shared above, I also wanted to highlight some of my personal recommendations for where to stay and where to eat!

Where to Stay:

• HighRoad Hostel
• The Westin Washington, DC Downtown
• citizenM Washington DC Capitol
• Moxy Washington, DC Downtown

Where to Eat:

• Founding Farmers
• Unconventional Diner
• Ben’s Chili Bowl
• Old Ebbitt Grill
• Falafel Inc.

FAQs About Things to Do in DC By Yourself

Is dc good for solo travel.

Washington, DC is a phenomenal city for solo travelers! With the plethora of museums and events, there is truly something for every solo traveler to enjoy. If you’re feeling nervous about making friends or meeting people as a solo traveler in DC, I suggest booking a stay at a hostel or going on a guided group tour .

Staying in a hostel is a sure way to meet new people and possibly even make friends for life! Group tours are also great as a solo traveler because you get acquainted with members of the group through general discussion, and it’s easy to find common interests considering you all booked the same tour!

Is it safe to travel to Washington, DC alone?

I’ve traveled to Washington, DC alone several times and I never once felt unsafe. It is important to mention here, though, that anything can happen in any city so it’s always best to be aware of your surroundings.

My personal recommendation in terms of staying safe while traveling alone is to never tell anyone you’re alone, or mention that you’re a solo traveler. If your Uber driver or other service provider asks what you’re doing in the city, you should default to mentioning something about meeting your family or friend group. Never directly mention your plans or the fact that you may be traveling by yourself.

Can you tour Washington, DC alone without a group?

Absolutely! DC is extremely well-connected and walkable, and most of the major museums and historic sites are free anyway! The benefit of going on guided tours is two-fold: you get to learn about history, culture, art, or general traveling tips from someone who’s local to the area and you also get the opportunity to meet new people while experiencing something unique!

If you want to fly under the radar and do your own thing, DC is perfect for that, as well. Plus, there are often many events and activities that occur around the city to partake in if you feel up to it! Your solo trip to Washington, DC can be whatever you want it to be–whether that’s socializing at a hostel, going museum hopping, or just enjoying a quiet meal from a local restaurant.

What is there to do in Washington, DC for free?

Museums, museums, and more museums! Washington, DC is one of the best US destinations to visit if you’re on a budget but still want a packed itinerary. According to WhichMuseum , there are 41 free museums to visit in Washington, DC! That means you could visit a new museum every day and not run out of things to do for nearly two months. Plus, think about all of the monuments, memorials, and massive parks in the city.

Which DC airport is best to fly into?

This is a hotly debated question, but in my mind there is no question: Reagan (DCA) is the best airport to fly into for a solo trip to DC. There are many reasons for this but mainly my decision is based on its convenience and proximity to Washington, DC. You can easily access public transportation from DCA, and Ubers are pretty affordable (I paid under $20 for an Uber between a downtown hotel and DCA). It doesn’t have a ton of bells and whistles, but what it lacks in decor it makes up for in ease of use and efficiency of travel.

The other two airports that many people fly into to visit Washington, DC are Dulles (IAD) and Baltimore (BWI). Those airports are significantly farther away from the city compared to DCA, and not the most ideal for solo traveling in my opinion. The simplicity of DCA coupled by its close proximity to the city make it the best airport to fly into for a solo trip to Washington, DC.

Final Thoughts: Unique Things to Do in DC Alone

Washington, DC offers a unique variety of activities and attractions that are perfect for solo travelers and budget travelers. Whether it’s exploring the city’s iconic museums and monuments, strolling through charming neighborhoods or the National Mall, or indulging in the diverse culinary scene, there is something to excite everyone!

What I love about DC as a solo trip destination is that it combines rich history, vibrant culture, and an overall welcoming atmosphere laid against a backdrop of fascinating history. I’m always looking for the chance to visit DC again because of how much I’ve enjoyed my solo visits in the past. I hope you enjoy the city as much as I do, and that this list was able to help you identify some of the best things to do in DC alone!

If you enjoyed reading this post about the top things to do in DC alone, please consider supporting me via  buying me a coffee ! Any funds given in support of this blog help me continue creating engaging travel content and sharing my stories and experiences with you all. I appreciate any support you can give, whether it’s a simple “share” or buying me a coffee!

Read More From Sydney Brown Travels:

• 8 Things to Do Alone in San Diego, CA
• How to Visit Pearl Harbor Solo Guide
• Travel Insurance Review: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance

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Ultimate Solo Travel Guide To Washington DC 2024

A solo trip to Washington DC gives you a ton of freedom to do whatever you want. Washington D.C. is a great place for solo travelers as long as you stick to the safe areas and stay in hotels that are friendly for solo travelers. In this article, we will look at the best ways to get to DC, the best hotels for solo travelers, and what you can do both during the day and at night to have the best time.

A Solo Trip To Washington DC: Getting Here

If you are traveling alone, taking a flight or a train to get to Washington DC is the best option. There are many airports that can get you into the DC area . 

Why We Don’t Recommend Driving For Solo Travelers In DC

Parking overnight in downtown Washington DC is expensive and you won’t use your car much when you are here. Washington DC has a metro system, a bus system, is also quite walkable, and also has ride share services as well as taxis. 

You really don’t need a car as a solo traveler. There are only a few major attractions outside the city and they accessible by public transportation or taxi. But, if you are planning to take a solo road trip , plan ahead to include parking in your budget and travel costs. 

Flights To Washington DC & Getting To Downtown DC From Airports & Train Station

There are three international airports in Washington DC. The most important and closest to the center is the Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport, colloquially called the National Airport and abbreviated as DCA. The metro directly connects DCA with downtown DC. You can jump on the blue or yellow line of the metro, and you will reach the city center in just half an hour.

Washington-Dulles International Airport which is called IAD or just Dulles is approximately 40 km away from the center. There is a new metro that offers service from IAD to downtown DC. When you get to the baggage claim area of IAD, head to doors 2 or 6 (not baggage carousel 2 or 6). From there you will follow the signs to the metro. You will want to board the train going in the direction of Downtown Largo. 

Finally, there is Baltimore-Washington International Airport, but very few international flights land there. From BWI, you can take the Amtrak to Washington DC or the Marc Rail. Alternatively you can also easily book a ride through a ride share app or take a taxi. 

If you come into Newark in New Jersey, which is near New York, you can take the train from New York or Newark to Washington DC. For more detailed information on which airport to fly into check out this article. 

Train To Washington DC – Arrive At Union Station

Union Station is the main railroad station in Washington DC. Not only do several Amtrak trains stop here, but there is also an extensive metro and local rail system that you can use to get into Washington DC. Once you get to Union Station you can either take a taxi or the metro to your hotel. If you have a lot of luggage it may be best to take a taxi the first time. 

Best Hotels For Solo Travelers In Washington DC

We recommend staying in central areas of DC. They might be a little pricier up front, but the places listed below are centrally located. This means these areas are generally safer than other areas and they are walking distance to many sites or have easy metro access. Though you may pay a little bit more to stay here, you will save a lot by not having to take a taxi everywhere. 

Also if you are looking to meet people, these hotels are lively and are likely to be buzzing with activity. Washington DC is one of the best cities to meet people. Many people in DC are transplants from other places and thus looking to meet people.

The Dupont Circle Hotel – Best Luxury Option

The Dupont Circle Hotel is in prime location. Not only is it located in the lively Dupont Circle neighborhood, it is also right next to the metro station, making it very convenient for sightseeing.

In the summer, the hotel has an outdoor seating area that is very lively. There are also two onsite restaurants where you can grab dinner or drinks after a day of sightseeing. There are also many popular restaurants nearby in the Dupont Circle area that you can try. 

The Thompson – Best Hotel For Affordable Luxury & Close To Public Transport

The Thompson Hotel is located in the Navy Yard neighborhood in Washington DC. This area remains lively on the weekends and also has a bustling after work scene during the weekdays. 

While it is not walking distance to the museums, there is a metro very close by that can give you easy access to the tourist areas of Washington DC. The DC Circulator also has a stop close to this boutique hotel giving you even more options to get around. 

We love this hotel because it is located in a nice area with plenty of restaurants and things to do in the evening after a long day of sightseeing. And, although it is a 4.5 star hotel, it is usually more affordable than some of the other luxury hotels in Washington DC. There is an onsite restaurant as well as a popular rooftop bar onsite. 

Citizen M Capitol Hill – Best Option To Meet Other People Traveling Solo

Citizen M caters towards singles and solo travelers. This is a great place if you want to meet other travelers and make some new friends. The bar here is located in the lobby area and is very lively. The rooms are all intended for singles or couples so you really won’t find many families here. 

There are two Citizen M hotels in Washington DC. This location is more convenient for sightseeing than the other one. At night, this area can be a little quiet, so be sure to take a taxi home if you are out late. The hotel bar is also lively and can be a fun place to hang out after a day of sightseeing in the nation’s capital. 

Hotel Washington – Best Location For Sightseeing

Hotel Washington is located adjacent to the National Mall. It is a short walk to nearly all the major attractions, museums and monuments. One of our favorite things about this hotel is the rooftop restaurant. This has an incredible view of Washington DC and specifically the Washington Monument. 

If sightseeing is a priority then this is the best place to stay for you. Be mindful that at night, this area has less casual dining options than Dupont Circle or Navy Yard (where the Thompson Hotel is located).

A Solo Trip To Washington DC: Getting Around Washington DC

Washington DC is easy to get around because there are so many options. Let’s take a look.

Walking Around DC

One of the best ways to get around the American capital is to walk. The National Mall is 3 km long, and you will find a huge number of points of interest there. You can take the metro or a taxi to this area, but once you are here, walking is the best way to see things efficiently. 

Use Public Transportation

For the most remote attractions, take public transportation, which is very efficient and safe. 

To travel by public transport, you must purchase a SmarTrip Card. It only costs $2 plus the initial balance, between $5 and $30. If you register it, even if you lose it by paying $2, you can replace it and recover your unused balance. In addition, they will refund your ticket if you are delayed more than 15 minutes on your trip. If you do not live in the District of Columbia, request a refund of the outstanding balance before leaving. 

Washington DC Metro

There are metro stations all over the city and there are a total of 6 metro lines. The Washington DC Metrorail schedule on weekdays is from 5:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. (except Friday, when it ends at 1 a.m.). Saturday is from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. and Sundays from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The last train leaves each terminal half an hour before closing. Metrorail fares range from $2 to $6 depending on the destination and time of day.

Washington DC Circulator

There is also the DC Circulator which only costs $1 . This bus system takes you to the most popular places in Washington, DC. It has six different routes, even going to Rosslyn, Virginia. It is utilized by over 5 million people every year and it is popular with both tourists and locals. The bus stops at each place every 10 minutes, making it easy and cheap for everyone.

Washington DC Metrobus

There are a dozen lines and hundreds of routes of Metrobus that cover the entire city. Washington DC Metrobus hours are 5:00 a.m. to 12:00 a.m. on weekdays and 7:00 a.m. to 3:00 a.m. on weekends. The bus ticket costs $2, and its price does not vary depending on the route.

Taxis And Ride Share Apps

There are many red taxis available in downtown DC. You can also use ride share apps like Uber and Lyft to get around Washington DC. Female travelers may want to consider using ride share apps over the metro if coming home to your hotel late at night. 

What Solo Travelers Should Do During The Day In Washington DC

As a solo traveler, there are so many things you can explore. Maximize your time in the nation’s capital by sightseeing during the day and exploring Washington DC’s food and nightlife scene at night. 

See The White House (From The Outside)

We start our list with the great classic to see in Washington DC: the White House. It is one of the most famous buildings in the world and was built in 1790 by President George Washington. Located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, it is a photo that cannot be missing from your memories of your trip to the United States. The White House is the official residence of the President of the USA and his workplace. 

Although American citizens can visit it after asking a congressman for permission, which usually takes months to be granted, entry is prohibited for tourists. The best place for you to see it from the outside is from the North side, on Pennsylvania Avenue, because from the South side, the trees will block your vision. 

Don’t be scared if you see armed Secret Service agents or snipers on the roof every few meters. This is normal given that the Head of State lives here. 

Visit The Capitol & The Supreme Court

Another symbol of the country that, yes or yes, you have to see in Washington DC during your trip is the Capitol of the United States of America. Its enormous and impressive dome presides over the more than 10 hectares of land that comprise it, and it has its own police department. Each of the two wings of this building corresponds to one of the two chambers of the Congress of the United States of America, the North wing being the Sanado and the South wing being the House of Representatives. 

Visitors can take free guided tour of the Capitol. The tour is highly recommended, as it will take you to places such as the National Statuary Hall or the Rotunda, the wonderful circular room that is just below the Capitol Dome. 

Right near the Capitol is the Supreme Court. You can view this impressive building from the outside. Don’t forget to take a picture of the iconic steps leading up to it. 

The Library Of Congress

To enter the Capitol, you will have to pass a security check similar to that at airports; this is something that you will quickly get used to when you begin your visit to Washington DC, since it is the political capital of the United States of America, They take security very seriously. Therefore, if you have chosen to take the tour inside the Capitol, we recommend that before leaving the building, you look for the tunnel that leads to the Library of Congress; this way, you will avoid having to go through another checkpoint again.

Once at the Library of Congress, you will find yourself inside one of the largest libraries in the world, and one of the most beautiful. Visitors have access to a glass viewpoint from where you can be amazed by the stained glass windows, architecture, paintings, or sculptures of this fascinating place. One of the original Gutenberg Bibles is found here!

Lincoln Memorial And Reflecting Pool

The esplanade that brings together the main monuments to see in Washington is called the National Mall. This is main area in which the museums and monuments are centralized. If you only have a little time in the city, it is best to focus on this part. 

When you finish visiting the Library of Congress, continue your walk to find the Abraham Lincoln Memorial or Lincoln Memorial. Waiting for you there, after climbing a few stairs, is a huge statue that you have also seen in many movies and series, that of Abraham Lincoln sitting with his big beard and serious look. Walk around him, where you will find two of his most famous speeches: the one he gave during the Civil War and the one at his second inauguration as president of the United States.

Then follow his gaze, and you will find the Reflecting Pool, a large pond in which the monolith of the Washington Monument is reflected in a very photogenic way. This same site is where Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous speech took place, in which he gave the legendary “I Have a Dream…” speech to more than 300,000 people.

You can hang out here for several hours taking in your surroundings. If you are more interested in a quick visit, then continue your walk to the museums.

Visit The Famous Smithsonian Museums

There are many free museums to explore in Washington DC , but amongst these, The Smithsonian Museums are what Washington DC is known for. These museums are incredible and very well known. Specifically, the National Air and Space Museum always wins many awards. 

Here, you can see live spacecraft, the Apollo 11 module with which it was possible to reach the Moon, a Concorde supersonic plane, or even the Enola Gay with which the first atomic bomb was dropped on Hiroshima.

In addition, there are other Smithsonian museums, and they are completely free as mentioned above. Millions of pieces await you at the National Museum of Natural History, ranging from meteorites to dinosaur fossils, while at the National Museum of American History, you can learn more about the country’s history and see important objects from it.

Explore Washington DC’s Art Scene

Washington DC has a thriving art scene. From the performing arts and live music to modern art, you can find a little bit of everything here. From exploring the many art museums to the art galleries you can easily spend a day immersing yourself in art culture and history. 

Take The Water Taxi

Another safe and fun activity to explore Washington DC during the day is taking a ride on the water taxi especially during the warmer summer months of July and August .. You can pick up the water taxi from Georgetown or the DC Wharf and take it to several destinations. If you want to stay within the city limits, start in the DC Wharf and head to Georgetown. 

If you want to explore other areas of DC, the water taxi can take you here also. There is a water taxi route that takes visitors to National Harbor as well as to Alexandria. Alexandria is a quaint town with plenty of history, great dining, and beautiful views. 

What To Do In DC At Night As A Solo Traveler?

There are plenty of things to do in Washington DC at night, but as a solo traveler be sure to be mindful of the areas you are in. Here are our top recommendations to enjoy this beautiful place and also be comfortable as a solo traveler.

Dupont Circle

Dupont Circle has a very lively nightlife. It is catered towards people in their 20s and 30s. There are many nightclubs and bars here and this area stays lively until 2 or 3 in the morning on the weekends. If you are leaving this area to head back to your hotel, the best way at a late hour would be by taxi or ride share app like Uber or Lyft.

Visit The Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center is a great option if you want to see a show. There are a variety of options when it comes to performances at the Kennedy Center. Not only will you get to enjoy a fun performance, but this iconic building is one of the best things to see in DC. 

Night Tour Of The Monuments

Taking a night tour of the monuments is a fun way to explore the city. Not only do you avoid most of the crowds during the day but this tour also gives you the opportunity to meet other travelers while taking in the iconic landmarks of the city.

The Washington Monument is particularly impressive to see at night. With its 170 meters high, it will also be very difficult for you not to see the Washington Monument while visiting other parts of the city. Not in vain, when it was inaugurated in 1884, it became the tallest construction in the world until, in 1889, it was surpassed by the Eiffel Tower in Paris. Around this enormous monolith, you will see 50 American flags surrounding it, representing the 50 states of the country. The views from the top are truly incredible and something to see in Washington D.C., to get the idea of how big and monumental this city is.

Explore 14th Street

The 14th street area of Washington DC is very lively and is a great place to walk around. From fun happy hours to great restaurants and boutique shops, there’s plenty to do here. Start at Le Diplomate, a fun French restaurant, and then work your way down to Colada Shop. This area of 14th street is very lively most nights of the week. 

Check Out The Anthem

The Anthem is a live entertainment venue that features many local as well as nationally known artists. It is located in the DC Wharf which is a newer part of DC that has many restaurants, boutiques as well as hotels. 

Solo Trip To Washington DC: Summary

When traveling alone you want to make sure that you are in safe places and in areas where you won’t feel lonely or its easy to meet other travelers. If you’re open to trying it, a solo trip will give you a unique and enriching experience. The easiest way to get to DC is by train or flight. Driving is an option but you will pay heavily for overnight parking in a hotel or a parking lot. Stay in the hotels mentioned in the article as these cater towards solo travelers and are great places to meet new people. Remember to trust your intuition when it comes to safety.

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Audiovisual Tour Guides

• Amanda Mercer
• Jul 23, 2023
• 10 min read

WASHINGTON D.C. SOLO TRAVEL: A Complete Guide 2023

Updated: Dec 2, 2023

1842, a 45-year-old Viennese housewife named Ida Pfeiffer wanted to explore the world – on her own. But she was a 45-year-old housewife - in a world where only men could follow their curiosity; act bravely; and travel independently. A woman travelling solo…it simply wasn’t done.

So, Ida told friends and family that she was going to visit a friend in Constantinople. Instead, over the course of 9 months, she followed her own curiosity and traveled by herself across the Black Sea to Jerusalem, south to Egypt and finally through Italy toward home.

She kept going. Over the next 16 years, Ida circumnavigated the world twice. She sailed oceans and rivers, trekked through jungles and deserts on horseback, scaled peaks, and braved all those who criticized her for doing it. [Read Ida’s Book: A Woman’s Journey Round the World ]

Traveling alone, can seem nerve-racking, frightening, and discomforting. It might even draw criticism. But it can also be inspiring, invigorating, life changing and ultimately enviable.

If you are just starting to consider solo travel or have been enjoying the experience for years – a great place to start or to continue your journey is Washington D.C.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Why a Trip to Washington D.C.?

Why is D.C. Great for Solo Travelers?

The Essentials

Best Things to Do In D.C. by Interest

The Capital of the United States of America is ideal for history buffs, foodies, art lovers and those seeking an immersive cultural experience. The city is a repository of America’s history with iconic monuments, memorials, and a plethora of museums. It tells the stories of the nation’s founding, our wars to preserve democracy, political scandals, and the incredible activism to achieve equal rights for all its citizens.

Why is Washington D.C. Great for Solo Travelers?

Washington D.C. is ideal for the first-time solo traveler as well as the experienced explorer. It is walkable; it has a fantastic tourist infrastructure; it's easy to get around; and it has an incredible number of entertaining, educational, and enjoyable things to do - in safe locations.

Yet another great thing about solo travel - you choose when to go! No compromises!

To help determine what meets your wants, a good place to start is by checking out the season and crowd size (outlined below) & the weather by month.

We also recommend looking into D.C.’s Calendar of Events. There could be a large event (like a rally) you would rather avoid – or one that you would like to join.

TIMES TO VISIT

PEAK SEASON: Late March to Early April (Cherry Blossoms)

SHOULDER SEASON: Late April to mid-May & Late August to mid-September

LOW SEASON: Early January to Mid-March and Mid-May to late August.

GETTING THERE

There are three airports within relatively easy access to D.C.:

DCA (Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport) is only 4 miles south of D.C. and has a metro stop connected to the terminal.

IAD (Dulles International Airport) is about 30 miles outside D.C. and with traffic the drive is about an hour.

BWI (Baltimore/Washington International) is just 32 miles from D.C.

Traveling by train is also a great option. Union Station D.C. is centrally located with a metro station. Check out Amtrack for schedules.

WHERE TO STAY

There are hundreds of choices in and around D.C. at every price level. Keep in mind weekends are generally less expensive because the business travelers have gone home. Also consider staying in Alexandria or Arlington (great spots on their own) and then taking the metro in. WDCA Hotels helps match travelers to area hotels/accommodations.

Because at BARD EUM , we love history, here are a few Hotels with History to consider for a stay or just to pop in for a drink and an appetizer: [Neighborhood in Brackets]

THE WATERGATE HOTEL - The name is synonymous with one of the country's biggest political scandals. But before that, the luxury hotel was a playground for the rich, famous and powerful. For 360-degree views of the Potomac River, the Washington Monument and the city skyline, check out the hotels' rooftop bar Top of the Gate . To enhance your experience, we recommend watching All the President’s Men before you go. [FOGGY BOTTOM]

THE MAYFLOWER HOTEL opened in 1925 and has played host to many inaugural balls. Visitors have included Winston Churchill, Franklin & Eleanor Roosevelt, J. Edgar Hoover (dined there daily for twenty years), and Charles Lindbergh. [GEORGETOWN]

THE HAY-ADAMS HOTEL sits on the site of two elaborate, Romanesque homes built for great friends John Hay, personal secretary to President Abraham Lincoln, and Henry Adams, a historian, Harvard professor, and the descendant of Presidents John Adams and John Quincy Adams. For years their homes served as one of Washington's leading salons, alive with stimulating discussions about literature, art, science, and politics. Famous guests such as Theodore Roosevelt, Mark Twain, Henry James, and the sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens stopped in from near and far. After their deaths, the homes were razed to build The Hay-Adams House, an Italian Renaissance-style hotel which continued to attract prominent visitors and the Washington Elite. [HAY-ADAMS]

THE WILLARD INTERNATIONAL opened in 1816 and played a part in significant events in our nation's history. Abraham Lincoln stayed here for the ten days prior to his inauguration; Julia Ward Howe wrote the Battle Hymn of the Republic here; Ulysses S. Grant coined the term “lobbyist” here as he sat in the lobby, annoyed by self-promoters, as he tried to enjoy his cigar and brandy. [DOWNTOWN]

GETTING AROUND

D.C. has a great metro system.

Taxi's are readily available as are the ride share apps Uber and Lyft.

Also consider a Hop On - Hop Off bus tour - particularly when you first arrive. It will help orient you to the city and ease any of that initial arrival anxiety. A great option in DC is Big Bus Tours.

TIPS FOR SAFETY:

Arrange check-ins daily with a friend – give them access to your location via text messaging or even better through a free app like Life360.

Ask hotel staff to mark a map with areas to avoid - day and/or night.

TIPS FOR BATHROOM BREAKS:

Museums. The Smithsonian Museums are all free to enter. You don't have to browse to use the restrooms.

Hotel lobbies. You don’t need to tell them you’re not staying there. Shhh!

WHERE TO EAT

Washington D.C. has Globe-trotting Cuisine. You can sample a different ethnic food at every meal if you so desired. Food Truck mania has hit D.C. Track their real time locations at Food Truck Fiesta . Here are a few places with history: [NEIGHBORHOOD BRACKETED]

BEN’S CHILI BOWL – has hosted former presidents, celebrities, comedians, and served as a meeting place for Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and other Civil Rights Movement leaders. It also stayed open during the race riots of 1968 [U-STREET]

MARTIN'S TAVERN This is where JFK proposed to Jackie in booth number three!

THE MONOCLE is a go to lunch spot for politicians - eaves drop on the nation's legislative gossip.

OLD EBBITT GRILL Washington's oldest saloon established in 1856. Notable plots and scandals were discussed here - including the Iran-Contra Affair.

TIPS FOR DINING SOLO : This can cause the most anxiety for solo travelers. Here are some suggestions to make it easier:

Practice at home

Start with Lunch

Eat at the Bar

Bring a book or magazine

WHEN ANXIETY HITS

Okay, let’s be realistic, if you are going on your very first solo trip - it’s more likely than not that at some point during either the planning stages or while you are there, anxiety will hit. Here are some suggestions to cope, rally, and move forward:

BEFORE YOU GO

Do some pre-planning. Make a list of at least one place to see or do per day; pick out several restaurants or coffee shops to visit. Knowing you have some set plans can help settle your worries.

Find a friend who is supportive (someone who has traveled solo, if possible) and talk through your worries. Sometimes just saying them aloud can help you figure out a solution yourself.

WHILE YOU'RE THERE

Phone a friend who is supportive of your desire to travel solo.

Find a place that you enjoy spending time at home – browsing in a bookstore; having a latte and a croissant at the coffee shop; shopping at a thrift store. Doing something familiar is a good reminder that you’re not really so far from what makes a place feel like home.

Write it down. Sit in the hotel lobby or a nearby park and journal. Write down your fears and then remind yourself that you have already made it this far – You are awesome! You are brave! You can do this!

CAPTURING YOUR MEMORIES

Check out some suggestions from a professional for taking great Travel Selfies with your phone .

The Best Things to do in Washington D.C.

Probably the best part of solo travel is getting to do and see exactly what interests you. Below is a list of interesting and worthwhile places to visit in D.C. based around topics of interest. We love the idea of immersing yourself in a specific aspect of history including, but not limited to: Military History, the Founding of America, Art & Music, Spy Craft, Black History, LGBTQ Culture & History, and/or the Lives of the Rich & Famous of D.C.

Take a walking tour, wander through every Smithsonian Museum, or immerse yourself in D.C. Culture. Do it all at your own pace. [Neighborhood in Brackets]

MILITARY HISTORY

AIR & SPACE MUSEUM [National Mall]

ARLINGTON CEMETERY. Simple white headstones mark the graves of American soldiers beginning with the Revolutionary War. Visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier representing those we lost in war whose remains could not be found or identified.

MARINE CORP BARRACKS. The oldest active post in the Marine Corp founded by Thomas Jefferson. Experience their majestic Friday Evening Parades

NATIONAL MALL

KOREAN WAR MEMORIAL Download BARDEUM's self-guided walking tour of this moving memorial and listen to a true story of the heroic acts of a 17 year old American soldier caught up in one of the most horrific battles of the Korean War. Unforgotten by Hampton Sides ( On Desperate Ground ).

VIETNAM VETERANS MEMORIAL Behind Enemy Lines by Eric Blehm ( Legend, Fearless ).

Listen to an audio sample from BARD EUM 's Audio / Visual Tour Behind Enemy Lines by Eric Blehm for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Step inside the story of a true event.

WORLD WAR II MEMORIAL Experience this Memorial as you step inside the story of a dentist, Benjamin Solomon, who was forced to take on an entirely different role during the Battle of Saigon. Field of Fire by Gregory A. Freeman ( The Forgotten 500 )

EXCURSION - ANNAPOLIS NAVAL ACADEMY

EXCURSION - MANASSAS NATIONAL (CIVIL WAR) BATTLEFIELD

THE FOUNDING OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA

LIBRARY OF CONGRESS The Nation's oldest federal institution was created by President John Adams. It contains more than 103 million items--books (about 20 million), films, maps, photographs, music, manuscripts, and graphics--from all over the world.

JEFFERSON MEMORIAL Step inside the story of the drafting of the Declaration of Independence as you wander the memorial. To Begin the World Again by Laura Kamoie ( America's First Daughter, My Dear Hamilton )

WASHINGTON MONUMENT Retiring Becomes Him by Edward J. Larson allows visitors to listen to the story of one of the most remarkable events in the history of war, revolution, and politics - General George Washington retired - when he could have simply stepped into the role of King. Listen as you walk the grounds of the monument.

NATIONAL ARCHIVES. Examine the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution and Bill of Rights [Downtown]

EXCURSION - MOUNT VERNON George Washington's Home

ART, MUSIC & LITERATURE

ART MUSEUMS

FREER-SACKLER MUSEUMS OF ASIAN ART [National Mall]

HIRSHHORN MUSEUM. Modern art featuring Rodin sculptures, Warhol and Miro [National Mall]

KREGER MUSEUM See the works of Picasso, Van Gogh and Monet [Northwest DC]

NATIONAL GALLERY OF ART [National Mall]

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN ART. [National Mall]

PHILLIPS COLLECTION. Modern Art featuring from Renoir to Rothko [Dupont Circle]

REYNOLDS CENTER FOR AMERICAN ART & PORTRAITURE. Georgia O'Keefe & Edward Hopper [Downtown]

ARENA STAGE A pioneer of the regional theatre movement

KRAMERS BOOK STORE

POLITICS & PROSE BOOKSTORE

KENNEDY CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS

NATIONAL BOOK FESTIVAL . Annual event held in September celebrating all things literary. See and hear from your favorite authors. All free.

FBI HEADQUARTERS Enjoy the FBI EXPERIENCE - a self-guided tour at FBI Headquarters featuring interactive multimedia exhibits, content, and artifacts [Downtown]

INTERNATIONAL SPY MUSEUM

THE MAYFLOWER HOTEL EDGAR BAR & KITCHEN The site of many dead drops, stings and arrests. J. Edgar Hoover ate lunch here every day for twenty years. [Georgetown]

BLACK HISTORY

CONGRESSIONAL CEMETERY offers a self-guided walking tour of the graves of famous African Americans. [Capitol Hill]

DECATUR HOUSE MUSEUM – One of the country's only preserved slave quarters [White House / Foggy Bottom]

FREDERICK DOUGLAS NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE [Anacostia]

LINCOLN MEMORIAL Stand on the same spot of ground where MLK Jr. gave his I have a Dream speech on August 28, 1963 and listen in. Listen to the I Have a Dream Speech

MLK JR. MEMORIAL

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AFRICAN AMERICAN HISTORY & CULTURE A not to be missed museum. **Important reminder - you need to reserve your spot !**

TUDOR PLACE HISTORIC HOUSE & GARDEN "preserves the stories of six generations of descendants of Martha Washington, and the enslaved and free people who lived and worked at this Georgetown landmark for nearly two centuries."

U STREET & LOGAN CIRCLE CORRIDOR. The historic center of the city’s African American Arts & Culture including "Black Broadway" where jazz thrived and the center of the 1968 race riots.

AFRICAN AMERICAN CIVIL WAR MUSEUM

HOWARD THEATRE

HOWARD UNIVERSITY

EXCURSION - FREEDOM HOUSE MUSEUM This building served as the nation's second largest slave trade center. The museum tells the powerful and tragic stories of the enslaved people who passed through here. [Old Town Alexandria]

LGBTQ HISTORY & CULTURE

CONGRESSIONAL CEMETERY offers a self-guided walking tour of the graves of famous LGBTQ Americans. [Capitol Hill]

DUPONT CIRCLE is the heart of the city's LGBTQ Community with an extensive history of activism.

CAPITAL (GAY) PRIDE FESTIVAL Annual celebratory event held annually in early June

NELLIE'S SPORTS BAR – Drag Brunches

THE LIVES OF THE RICH & FAMOUS OF D.C.

CONGRESSIONAL CEMETERY [Capitol Hill]

GEORGETOWN Walk through this exclusive Washington Neighborhood, shop, and dine at high end establishments.

DUMBARTON HOUSE is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and displays period decorative arts (furniture, silver, ceramics, etc.) giving visitors a sense of a life for the wealthy in the early 1800s.

HILLWOOD ESTATE, MUSEUM & GARDENS Founded by Marjorie Post visitors can experience the wealth and luxury of one of America's most well-known businesswoman, socialite, and philanthropist.

KENNEDY CENTER Rub shoulders with the who's who of Washington D.C.

THE WATERGATE HOTEL [White House / Foggy Bottom]

EXCURSION - MIDDLESBURG was established in 1787 and was the home of many prominent and wealthy Washingtonians - including John and Jackie Kennedy.

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Noah takes the world

16 things to do alone in dc | perfect dc solo trip.

The Best Things to Do Alone in DC

Washington, D.C., is a perfect city for solo travel because countless museums and monuments dot every corner. The worst thing you can be on a solo trip is bored. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do alone in DC.

Beyond the museums and monuments, DC is home to well-maintained biking trails and aesthetic shopping streets, perfect for solo travelers.

Hi, I am Noah takes the world . I love solo traveling. Planning a solo trip can be stressful with endless scrolling and searching.

My mission is to make your solo trip a reality.  

Subscribe to my monthly newsletter— stunning photos and stories to guide your solo trip

This post may have affiliate links. I receive a small percentage if you book a hostel or attraction through my recommended links. This is at no extra cost to you and helps me reach my goal of becoming a full-time digital nomad.

Planning things to do alone in DC can be intimidating. Luckily, I solo traveled for four days in DC and managed to hit over 50 sites. I am here to tell you the things to do alone in DC. 

Planning an East Coast Trip? Read my Boston , Philly , NEW YORK , and RHODE ISLAND Itineraries.

Table of contents

Is it safe to solo travel to dc, where to stay during your dc solo trip, 1. visit the national gallery of art to admire art at your own pace, 2. see dorothy’s original ruby red slippers at the national museum of american history, how to get tickets for the national museum of african american history and culture, how to get tickets for the united states holocaust memorial museum, 5. escape the crowds of the lincoln and jefferson memorials and visit them at night.

• 6. Rent a Bike to Access Other Monuments in the National Mall

7. Get a Ticket to Go up the Washington Monument

8. watch the sun dip below the skyline at the watergate steps, 9. browse the library of congress: the largest library in the world, 10. take a photo outside the most famous house in america, 11. bike up capitol hill and walk up the steps of the supreme court, 12. ride the train to bethesda and bike back to georgetown on the capital crescent trail, 13. bike across the arlington memorial bridge for more memorials and a great view of the national mall, 14. if you have extra energy, bike to the pentagon memorial, 15. picnic at gravelly point park and watch planes takeoff.

• 16. Explore the massive Arlington National Cemetery and Robert E. Lee House

Now, Go Solo Travel in Washington DC

Before I list the best things to do alone in DC, let’s discuss safety. Most people are afraid to visit DC alone because they think it is dangerous to travel alone.

Although solo traveling can be dangerous, it is safe to visit DC alone. Many museums and monuments have strict security protocols, making most of the popular activities in the city safe.

You should exercise caution when walking or biking alone at night. I felt comfortable doing so in Washington, D.C., but I know women do not always have that luxury. Luckily, if you stay at a hostel, typically, you can meet other travelers who you can go out at night with.

When I solo travel, I always stay at hostels . You should stay in a Hostel for your solo trip because it is the easiest way to save money. Beyond savings in your wallet, hostels offer easy access to attractions and fellow solo travelers to help you feel more connected to the city you are visiting. 

I stayed at Duo Housing DC . It is one of the highest-rated hostels in the entire city and is located in a safe area. If you want to make friends and feel a sense of community, this is the hostel for you. If you want to mingle with knowledgeable staff and enjoy a free intimate breakfast, stay at Duo Housing DC.

If you want more space to unwind and sleep, I recommend booking a 2 or 4-bed dorm . The larger dorms are pretty small and lack some privacy. However, the sleeping arrangements are typically not ideal in most hostels. They are hostels, after all!

What Museums Are Best to Visit During a Solo Trip to DC?

D.C. is synonymous with the Smithsonian—the home of 21 museums and the largest museum complex in the world. You could easily spend your entire D.C. trip in these free learning spaces.

However, not all of these museums are perfect for solo travel. The arguably most famous museum, the National History Museum, is a great visit for families but not so enjoyable for solo travelers. 

Noah’s take: When I visited the museum, it was hard to admire the exhibits because of the hoards of people. It was not the best thing to do alone in DC.

For a solo experience, the best museums are quiet and thought-provoking. Here are four museums that I loved visiting alone. 

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 to 5:00
• Ticket required: No

You can see works by famous artists like Van Gogh and Leonardo da Vinci. I particularly enjoyed seeing landscapes painted by American artists. 

After your visit, make sure to walk through the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden . It is sandwiched between the National Gallery of Art and the Smithsonian National Museum of American History. 

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 to 5:30

The American History Museum might not be the most reflective space, but it was engaging with its exhibits on American consumerism and pop culture. 

If you are a Wizard of Oz fan, you can see the original ruby red slippers used during the film’s production. 

Noah’s take: Most other museums close at 5, so this is a great museum to visit at the end of your day. 

3. Learn About Excellence and Resilience at the National Museum of African American History and Culture

• Hours: Open daily from 10:00 to 5:30 (Mondays: 12:00-5:30)
• Ticket required: Yes

One of the newest additions to the Smithsonian, The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to sharing African American life, history, and culture.

I absolutely loved the “Musical Crossroads” exhibit. Seeing how African American music has and continues to define American music was inspiring as a music lover. 

However, this is a very popular museum. You must have a ticket to visit this museum.

Visitors can reserve timed-entry passes up to 30 days in advance on a rolling basis. Advanced timed-entry passes are released daily beginning at 8:00 a.m. EST.  

If you failed to reserve tickets 30 days in advance, same-day timed-entry passes are released online only at 8:15 a.m. EST daily.

However, it is so stressful trying to reserve tickets while on your trip. So, I suggest you plan ahead and try to get tickets in advance.

By an absolute miracle, I managed to get into the museum without a ticket reservation. I planned my trip at the last minute and couldn’t get advance tickets. The same-day tickets also sold out. 

I entered the museum because a staff member allowed me in under her name. Such a kind gesture!

Noah’s take: Do not bank on this happening for your trip, but this is a great example of the benefits of solo traveling. When it is just you on a trip, staff often feel more compassion for you and will provide extra service. 

4. Feel Completely Transformed After Visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

Everyone knows about the Holocaust Memorial Museum . It might be one of the most famous museums in the country. 

So, I had high expectations for visiting this museum. After seeing the shoes of 4,000 prisoners and walking through a rail car that would take people to their death, those expectations were shattered.

Noah’s take: It was such an emotional and raw experience touring this museum alone. It was unforgettable. 

Reserve tickets online before your visit to the Museum. Try to get advance tickets online. According to their website, tickets through Feburary 2024 are available now. 

A limited number of same-day tickets are available online each day at 7 a.m. ET. 

Again, I failed to get advance tickets, and I was in my hostel bed, trying for dear life to snag one ticket. It was not enjoyable because the website said I got tickets; however, none were sent to my email.

So, I entered the museum and pretended to have a ticket. When it was time to scan my ticket, I had already gone through security, so they let me through.

Noah’s take: When in doubt, fake it till you make it. After all, it was a computer glitch! Not my fault I did not receive the email.

However, I could have avoided this if I planned ahead. So, plan ahead if you want to visit this museum. 

Noah’s take: If you can’t get online tickets, you can go in person to the museum and ask for tickets. When I visited, they handed out a few tickets to people in line without tickets. This can be a last-resort option. 

What Monuments Are Best to Visit During a Solo Trip to DC?

Millions of people come to D.C. and flood the many iconic landmarks located in “ America’s Front Yard ,” the National Mall. 

For good reasons, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Jefferson Memorial are the most popular monuments. 

Noah’s take: However, make sure to also visit the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial during your solo trip. 

You will find D.C. is full of tourists, and the most iconic memorials become a hotspot for tourists who want that perfect picture. 

I take many pictures like anyone else, but I found myself annoyed with the sheer number of people trying to find the best angle and pose. 

Visiting the monument at night was more enjoyable when the crowds were less intense and aggressive. I had more space to explore and take in the massive monuments. They are gigantic and impressive. 

Noah’s take: If you have extra time, photograph these iconic landmarks during the day. You might get better pictures during the day. However, night pictures are still very cool. 

• Visit Jefferson Memorial early in the morning, and enjoy beautiful views of the Tidal Basin. 
• On the other hand, the Lincoln Memorial can be a great photo spot during sunset when the sun hits its columns with a golden glow.  

6. Rent a Bike to Access Other Monuments in the National Mall 

As mentioned above, you should visit many monuments during your DC solo trip. The National Mall is a very large space. You should rent a bike if you want to cover the ground quickly. 

Luckily, renting a bike is cheap and easy. Capital Bikeshare is metro DC’s bike share service with 700+ stations across D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. 

You can purchase a 24-hour pass for $8, including unlimited 45-minute class bike rides. After 45 minutes, you pay $0.05/minute.

Download the Capital Bikeshare App, make an account, and see every bike station in the district. It is very easy and convenient to unlock a bike. You will receive a code via text. Once you enter the code, your bike will become unlocked. 

Before renting your bike, plan which station you will return it to. Not every monument is located next to the bike station. You don’t want to pay extra for your bike simply because you do not know where to park it. 

The only monument you need an advance ticket to visit is the Washington Monument. 

Getting this ticket was quite stressful for my trip. You have three options for getting tickets.

• Option 1: 30-Day Advance Reservations—Order tickets online up to a month in advance of your visit. For example, if you want to visit on June 6, visit recreation.gov on May 7 at 10 a.m. to get your tickets. 
• Option 2: 24-Hour Advance Reservations—A limited number of tickets are available at 10 a.m. for the next day’s visit. For example, if you want to visit on April 2, visit recreation.gov at 10 a.m. on April 1. 
• Option 3: Walk-Up Tickets (Same Day Only)— Go to the service building in front of the monument at 8:45 a.m. for free, same-day, timed tickets on a first-come, first-serve basis. One person (16+ years old) may obtain up to six tickets and request their preferred ticket time.

I didn’t plan my trip far enough ahead, so I had to try to get Walk-Up Tickets. It took me waiting in line for three mornings of my trip to get a ticket to go up to the Washington Monument. 

My tip for getting a Walk-Up Ticket is to come at least by 7:30 a.m. to get a ticket, and that might not be enough time. One person can get up to six tickets, so if many people in front of you get six tickets, you might be out of luck.  

Although it was annoying when I was only two people away from getting a ticket, trying to get these tickets forced me to get up early. So, I maximized my day because I had to get up so early. 

After my third attempt and waiting in line for hours, I got a ticket, and it was super exciting to see D.C. from a bird’s eye view. It was worth all the waiting. 

Besides Museums and Monuments, Here Are Other Things To Do Alone in DC

After a day enjoying museums around the National Mall, visit the Watergate steps located behind the Lincoln Memorial. 

DC has beautiful buildings and art but is also surrounded by beautiful nature. I thoroughly enjoyed photographing the Potomac River and the Arlington skyline during golden hour. 

• Monday: closed
• Tuesday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Wednesday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Thursday: 10:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
• Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
• Sunday: closed

I accidentally stumbled upon the Library of Congress and was glad I did. Although advance tickets are required, I was able to scan a QR code and get a ticket quickly before I went into the library. 

Make sure not to miss viewing the Main Reading Room . There are plenty of interesting exhibits and artwork to get lost in for days. It is truly perfect for a solo trip. 

Can you visit D.C. without seeing the White House? No, you really can’t. If you want to tour the White House, you must submit a request through a member of Congress . 

If you don’t want to hassle with that, visiting Lafayette Square and taking a picture with the White House in the background is still enjoyable. 

If you want a quick workout, you can bike up to Capitol Hill. You can bike 2 miles from Lincoln Memorial through the National Mall to reach the Senate and House of Representatives home. 

You can also visit The Capitol Visitor Center, open Monday-Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you want to tour the Capitol, reservations are recommended for a tour. Visit the schedule a tour page . 

If you are unable to get a reservation, you can arrive at the Capitol Visitor Center as early in the day as possible to try to obtain a pass.

Noah’s take: Tours were unavailable when I visited the Hill, but I enjoyed admiring the dome. 

Across from the home of the Legislative branch is the home of the Judicial Branch, the Supreme Court—another fun spot to take pictures and envision the many historical events that took place there. 

The building is open to the public but does not offer guided walking tours. Research and plan ahead if you want to go inside the court. 

If you are visiting DC, why not visit some other U.S. States? Like many travelers, I aim to visit every U.S. state. So, I took a train to Maryland as another fun solo activity. 

From Metro Center Station, take the Red Line to Bethesda, Maryland. Once you reach Maryland, you can visit Bethesda Row and shop at some cute boutiques. 

After exploring for a bit, go to Elm Street Park to begin the Capital Crescent Trail . In just 7 miles, after passing beautiful scenery, you will make it to Georgetown. 

Georgetown has plenty to explore and is a perfect setting for doing so alone. Get gourmet cupcakes at Georgetown Cupcakes . Pretend to be a student at Georgetown University. 

More biking? Yes! More biking. Trust me. After solo traveling across the globe, I found biking around a new city is so fun and healing.

You can cross the Arlington Memorial Bridge from the Lincoln Memorial and reach the US Marine Corps War Memorial in 10 minutes. 

This memorial represents the nation’s gratitude to Marines and those who have fought beside them. In the same space is the Netherlands Carillon, a bell tower gifted by the Dutch for American aid received during and after World War II.

These memorials are beautiful, as is the view of the National Mall from this side of the Potomac River. 

Once you make it to Arlington, you can visit The Pentagon Memorial. It is a 2-mile ride from the US Marine Corps War Memorial. During your ride, you will see impressive views of the Pentagon. 

The memorial remembers a somber moment in time, 9:37 a.m. on Sept. 11, 2001, when 184 souls were lost . 

There are 184 memorial benches dedicated to each of the victims. It is a beautiful place to reflect and honor the lives lost. I am especially drawn to these places during my solo travels. 

Noah’s take: If you have even more time and energy, you can visit the nearby Air Force Memorial. Reaching this site by bike is difficult since the Memorial sits beside the Interstate. 

The Air Force Memorial symbolizes reaching for the stars , as seen with its majestic spires. It is a very beautiful memorial. 

From Pentagon City, you can easily access Gravelly Point by taking the Mount Vernon Trail . Gravelly Point Park is home to ice cream trucks, locals flying kites, and photographers trying to capture planes taking off from the Ronald Reagan Airport. 

The park is located right across from the airport, making it an energetic and exciting place to picnic or watch the sunset. 

Solo traveling is exhausting, especially in D.C. There is so much to do! Give yourself a much-needed rest in the beautiful atmosphere at Gravelly Point Park. 

16. Explore the massive Arlington National Cemetery and Robert E. Lee House 

Arlington National Cemetery is open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. You might be surprised to hear this, but I do not recommend biking here. 

Very few bike stations are located near the Cemetery, so you will bike here only not to know where to park your bike. I wonder if the lack of bike stations was planned to preserve the peace of these hallowed grounds. 

Instead of biking, get to Arlington by Metro via the direct Arlington Cemetery stop on the Blue Line. It is very convenient and less stressful than finding where to park your bike.

Once you reach the Cemetery, you will realize it is massive and has a lot to cover. Make sure to visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , where many people watch the Changing of the Guard ritual . 

Another site you should visit is the Arlington House, the former residence of Robert E. Lee, the Confederate General of the Civil War. Touring this historic home was very informative and eye-opening. 

It was not the usual information you hear about the Civil War. I found it very engaging. 

As you can see, there are plenty of things to do alone in DC. My trip to the Nation’s Capital was one of my favorite solo trips ever because I was never bored.

The museums were informative. The monuments were awe-inspiring. And I got to bike so much.

Don’t fear solo traveling to DC! There are so many things to do alone in DC, making it the perfect setting for a reflective and fun adventure. 

Visiting the East Coast? Read all of my East Coast guides:

• 8 Solo Things to Do in NYC for the Perfect Day Alone
• Philly Solo Trip: The Perfect Itinerary for a 2-Day, Budget-Friendly Trip
• Boston Solo Trip: The Perfect Itinerary for a 3-day Budget-friendly Trip
• Rhode Island Travel Guide: How to Spend 48 Hours Alone in Rhode Island

noahshoaf27

Your Ultimate Guide to Solo Travel in Washington, D.C.

quickwhittravel

Updated May 25, 2021.

This is a brand new year with brand new potential! Want to make solo travel a part of your life this year? I think that’s a fantastic idea! I moved to Washington, D.C., completely solo nearly 10 years ago, and I can definitely recommend D.C. as an excellent solo travel destination! Here is the low-down on traveling solo in D.C.

Why Washington, D.C.?

Because it’s the United States Capital city. This is where history is created in the United States, and as a result, there are tons of things to see and do. Many of the museums around town are free, and it’s a very walkable, easy to navigate city. My question to you is, what are you waiting for?

Get the most out of your trip! D.C. Tours to Book in Advance

Is it safe.

Yes! As with anywhere in the world, there are good areas and bad areas. In D.C., the tourist areas (Northwest D.C., the National Mall, downtown, Capitol Hill, and nearby Arlington and Alexandria, Virginia) are notably safe. You can walk around the monuments, go to all the major museums, visit historic sites, and more, all feeling confident that you will be safe as a solo traveler.

Safety first! How to Travel Safely

How can you get there.

The easiest way to get to Washington, D.C., is to fly into Washington National Airport (DCA) and take the Metro into the District on the yellow or blue lines. You can also fly into Dulles International Airport (IAD), where the Metro will be coming in 2019. Baltimore International Airport (BWI) is also considered a Washington-area airport, but it’s a little more complicated and expensive to get into D.C. from there. I do not recommend driving in D.C. to anyone!

For more, check out  What to Know Before You Visit Washington, DC !

Where to stay.

I always recommend that people stay in Alexandria, Arlington, or in downtown D.C. Look for a hotel that is close to a Metro station or that has a shuttle to a Metro station. This will make your trip much easier and less stressful than if you stay farther out and have to figure out how to get into town.

It’s even better if you can walk wherever you need to go! There are tons of free things to do in D.C., so this could be your opportunity to splurge just a little on an accommodation with the perfect location.

See  Your Ultimate Guide to Accommodations  for my best tips on finding a place to stay!

How to stay occupied.

Oh my stars, how long do you have? There is enough to keep a person occupied for weeks! I’ve been here 10 years and have tackled more than most, but not everything (yet).

Check out my itineraries:

• 1 Day in D.C.
• 3 Days in D.C.
• 1 Week in D.C.

Want to venture out to off-the-beaten-path locales? Check out  Obscure D.C. !

How to save money.

There are hundreds of free things to do in D.C. All the Smithsonian Museums are free, and to compete, many other museums around the District are also free. The Kennedy Center offers free concerts every night at 6:00pm, and all the monuments and memorials are free–including guided talks and museums!

For more check out  Free Things To Do in D.C. !

Want suggestions on where to eat and more stuff to do? Check out my Washington, D.C. Page !

Are you ready for your own solo trip to my adopted hometown of Washington, D.C.? Get all my best tips and recommendations on my Solo Travel Page !

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21 Wonderful Things to Do Alone in Washington, DC (2024)

Despite being of a compact size, Washington, DC packs a punch.

Whether you’re looking to explore history, tuck into some fine dining or see world class art, there’s no shortage of things to do, especially for those traveling by themselves.

Plus, for those interested in politics and history, you’re sure to have an absolute field trip visiting this politically rich and influential city.

In this list, we take you through 21 wonderful things to do alone in Washington, DC. 

Want more ideas of things to do solo in your favorite American cities? Check these out!

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1. Stroll along National Mall

The National Mall is the ideal starting point for most people on a solo trip to Washington, DC, giving you the perfect kick off to explore many of the key sights and attractions of this impressive city.

The Mall itself is a landscaped stretch, spanning a walkable distance from the Capitol Building to Lincoln Memorial.

From the Mall you’ll also see the Smithsonian Museum and the White House.

On a sunny day, the Mall can be busy with both locals and visitors ambling along the route so it also makes for a prime people-watching spot. 

2. Tour the White House

If you go to Washington, DC and don’t make a trip to the White House, it’d be akin to visiting London town without stopping by Buckingham Palace.

The White House isn’t just the official residence of the President, it’s also home to several museums, galleries and beautifully landscaped gardens that are also open to the public.

While public tours are available, they do need some pre-planning and tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

If you’re a US resident, a request to tour the stately building must be submitted through your Member of Congress.

Foreign visitors can also seek a tour of the White House but remember to book in advance and bring ID.

3. Visit the National Gallery of Art

Located on National Mall, the National Gallery of Art is an impressive building that is worth a visit, even if you’re more interested in architecture than art.

Following an extensive renovation, the museum shows a world class collection of modern art and classics, from a self-portrait of Vincent van Gogh to the iconic giant rooster on the roof.

The National Mall is a great place to spend a few hours soaking in the grandeur of Washington, DC and the National Gallery of Art is an ideal place to begin.

4. Visit the Lincoln Memorial

Any trip to Washington, DC must include at least a brief stop at the Lincoln Memorial.

One of the most iconic memorials in the country can be found on the Western end of the National Mall.

The giant marble sculpture of President Lincoln is the main attraction when visiting the memorial, but be sure to take in the surrounding views of the Potomac River, the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument.

For any Washington, DC solo traveler, a visit to the Lincoln Memorial is one of the most memorable things to do.

5. Go fine dining

Who said you can’t enjoy a fine dining experience alone?

In fact, having a meal alone at Le Diplomate is arguably the best way to really enjoy the delicious cruising and exquisite atmosphere, without interruption.

This European style restaurant has all the trimmings of a traditional French restaurant, with baskets filled with freshly baked bread, burgers topped with a miniature French flag and a seafood tower to write home about.

For an unforgettable dinner experience in Washington, Le Diplomate should be one of the top places on your list.

6. Visit the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Other than being a mouthful, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History also packs a punch with its diverse and impressive range of exhibits, artwork and sculptures dedicated to the evolution of humans, wildlife and more.

A visit here is one of the most fun things to do alone in Washington, DC.

Chances are you won’t get time to see everything at the museum, but some of the highlights that are worth a look in, include the stuffed animals exhibit, the gem and mineral collection, the Kenneth E. Behring Hall of Mammals and the Hall of Human Origins.

If you’ve ever been curious about the evolution of the human race, this is the place to get your fix of evolutionary history.

7. Explore Eighth Street

For things to do alone in Washington, DC at night, you’ll want to head to Eighth Street, also known as Barracks Row .

This pulsating strip has a line up of stellar restaurants, shops and historical attractions that draw both visitors and locals alike.

It’s easy to spend an evening hopping along this main street, choosing from one of the many restaurants and cuisines that line the busy thoroughfare, with a view of the Marine Barracks on the other side of the road that give this street its popular name.

8. Be awed by the National Archives

The National Archives are a jaw dropping collection of documents, photographs and artifacts, recording the development of the United States of America in granular and profound detail.

Many objects of historical and national significance can be found in the depths of the National Archives, including the Charters of Freedom and the very gun that shot President John F Kennedy.

If you’re overwhelmed by all the history and artifacts, the catalog is a good place to start to get an overview of all the treasures stored here.

9. Visit Smithsonian’s National Zoo

The Smithsonian’s National Zoo is not only a popular place for families and those with young children, it’s also a great place for all visitors to explore when visiting Washington.

While you’re there, check out the various permanent and rotating exhibits, including the ever-popular pandas and lions.

If you’re planning to visit, make sure you check the website beforehand as (free) entry passes may be required.

10. Visit the US Capitol Building

The Capitol Building is the home of the U.S. legislature, being the political arm of lawmakers who set the laws of the country.

Visitors can request a tour of this grand building by either requesting an entry pass from their state senator or by simply purchasing tickets to join the tour, from the entry gate located outside the building.

Even if you don’t have the time to join a full tour, a walk past the impressive facade is definitely worth your time.

11. Have breakfast at the iconic Compass Rose

One of the most popular places to have breakfast in Washington, DC is the woman-owned and run cafe and restaurant known as Compass Rose.

Just a stone’s throw off 14th street is where you can find this globally inspired menu, boasting dishes that are a testament to the owner, Rose’s travels around the world.

Some of the most popular dishes include the khachapuri, a Georgian dish made with bread, cheese, butter and a raw egg.

For egg lovers there’s also a much loved shakshuka, made with a generous serving of eggs, onions, cheese and herbs.

12. Spend the day on the water

Spending a relaxing afternoon sailing in Chesapeake Bay is one of the most wonderful ways to spend the day alone in D.C.

You can find a number of tour operators scattered around Annapolis that will allow you to indulge in a few peaceful hours sailing around the bay area.

Many of the tours also include a seafood lunch, making the most of the excellent crabs that can be found in the area.

Before heading back to the main city district, make sure you spend some time exploring the nearby US Naval Academy and St John’s College.

13. Explore the National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is one of the most significant institutions detailing the history, culture and influence of African American people in the country.

The Museum includes exhibits, galleries and artifacts covering the history of slavery as well as the significant contributions made by prominent and lesser known African Americans on modern day America.

Part of the Smithsonian, this Museum is an insightful place to visit to learn more about the history and culture of America.

14. Visit the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress serves an important purpose as being the official research library for the US Congress.

But luckily for the rest of us, visitors can also request a free Reader Identification Card that allows them to enter the library and peruse the extensive collection of literary works.

Alternatively you can also take a free, one hour guided tour of the main library building, stopping through the various galleries and exhibitions that form part of the grand structure.

15. Grab a coffee and people watch at Busboys & Poets

This local institution is not only a cafe, but also a meeting place for artists, activists and the curious minded.

When Iraqi-American owner, Anas ‘Andy’ Shallal opened the first cafe, it quickly became a go-to for many of DC’s anti-Iraq war activists.

Nowadays, Busboy & Poets have six locations in the city and they act as venues for artists and performers from all over to perform their talents and share their stories.

If you’re in the mood for a thought provoking evening and a chance to meet fellow like-minded travelers, Busby & Poets makes for a great place to visit.

16. Explore Eden Center

For what to do alone in Washington, DC on a budget, Eden Center, also known affectionately as the Little Saigon, is the place to go when you’re craving authentic Vietnamese food and culture.

The district has a number of popular food outlets, selling delicacies such as pho, banh mi and barbecued pork.

Once you’ve had your fill of delicious steaming noodles or fragrant spring rolls, spend an hour or two wandering around the shops and the giant Falls Church that are popular meeting points amongst locals.

17. Grab a gourmet goodie at Union Market

If you’re after a more fancy snack, you’ll want to head towards Union Market, the self-described ‘epicenter of culinary creativity in DC’.

This artisanal market has a mixture of vendors selling both local and imported items, from samples of local cheese and extra virgin olive oil to noodles, burgers and desserts.

If you were looking for a souvenir, there are also stalls selling coffee beans, spices and other trinkets to take back home.

18. Head down to Key Bridge Boathouse in Georgetown

The Key Bridge Boathouse is the main gateway to the best water activities DC has to offer.

If you are visiting during summer, getting on the Potomac is one of the most fun ways to explore the city, and you can choose from canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding.

There is equipment available for hire from the Boathouse as well as tours that you can sign up to, which take you on a water-journey past various DC monuments, such as Lincoln Memorial and the Kennedy Center.

19. Catch a flick at Landmark’s E Street Cinema

One of the quirkiest activities in DC is watching a movie at Landmark’ E Street Cinema.

If you’ve spent enough time sitting alongside couples cosying up in DC’s restaurants and food halls, the cinema is a great idea for what to do by yourself in Washington, DC.

The cinema was built in the early 2000s and specializes in indie films, documentaries, foreign language films, and classic revivals.

There’s also a great concession area with your favorite movie theater classics.

20. Watch a show at the Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company

With a focus on producing quirky and edge plays, the Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company is one of the hidden gems in D.C’s artistic community. 

Founded in 1980, the Company has put on independent shows for the local community to promote arts, culture and creativity. 

Whilst the size of the theater itself is small, the stage and set up create a cozy and intimate atmosphere, making for a great way to feel connected to fellow theater-goers whilst enjoying the thrilling performance.

21. Visit the International Spy Museum

One of the most fun things to do alone in Washington, DC is visit the Washington Spy Museum.

This espionage themed museum is not only full of exhibits and memorabilia that were once used in real life missions, but also gives you a chance to test your own spy skills. 

There’s a fee to enter but if you’re interested in the history of covert missions and the gadgets used by brave operatives trying to protect state secrets, this is one of the most fun and highly rated activities in Washington, DC.

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Solo Travel Tips: Washington, DC

Washington, DC should definitely be in your list of places to visit if you’re planning on traveling in the United States . I’d been there twice, and I’d happily go back! This post — part of my Solo Travel City Guide series — was written by a fellow blogger, Kay Rodriguez, of Jetfarer.com.

Ah, Washington DC — the United States capital. Full of middle school field trips, surly politicians, and ambitious young professionals, it’s a city that definitely has a lot going on…at all times.

Just hearing the city’s name probably brings to mind images of sparkling white buildings, the sweeping National Mall, and towering monuments. Because of its usual stereotype, you probably could have guessed that Washington DC is a fantastic getaway for families.

However, what you maybe haven’t realized is that solo travel in Washington DC is also a fabulous experience! One of my favorite things about it is that it has a very young professional vibe. It seems like so many people here are ambitious and excited to do big things in the world.

This also means that the local neighborhoods (far, far away from the tourist areas in the National Mall) are actually full of charm and energy. In this guide, I’ll be sharing some of my favorite (local) things to do in Washington DC as a solo traveler.

Arriving in Washington DC

There are a number of ways to arrive in DC, but the most popular are by plane, train, or bus. It has three major airports and one train/bus station, so I’ve included instructions on how to get into the city from each place here.

From Ronald Reagan National Airport (DCA)

Exit the airport and follow signs for the metro. Take the blue or yellow metro line into the city center. Where you get off will depend on which neighborhood you’re staying in, so check the WMATA website or Google maps for the most accurate instructions.

From Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI)

Exit the airport and follow signs for the MARC shuttle bus. Board the shuttle bus and get off when you arrive at the MARC station. Purchase a one-way ticket at the kiosk and take the MARC train to Union Station (the last stop), where you can catch the red metro line to most places in the city.

From Dulles International Airport (IAD)

Getting from IAD to downtown DC can be tricky, but don’t let that discourage you and force you into taking a SUPER expensive taxi! Simply follow signs at the airport to the bus area (if you can’t find it, ask at the Information desk), then board a bus to Wiehle-Reston East.

Once you disembark at Wiehle-Reston East, you can board the Silver metro line that will take you straight into downtown DC.

Going to Washington DC by Train/Bus

Union Station, DC’s major bus and train station, is where Amtrak, Greyhound, and Megabus arrive from various cities around the East Coast. When you arrive at Union Station, follow signs for the DC metro and take the red line to your final destination.

Where to Stay in Washington DC

You have a lot of options when it comes to hotels in Washington, DC. What makes the difference in your stay is choosing which area to be based in. Here are some suggestions.

Choose Chinatown when in DC

One of the best and most central areas for travelers (especially solo travelers) is Chinatown. It’s far enough from the main stretches of downtown to feel local, but close enough to walk to the main attractions.

Here, you can find fantastic eats, nearby live music venues, and a buzzing neighborhood that always seems to be filled with life. Within Chinatown, I recommend the POD Hotel DC , a budget-friendly hotel with typical amenities, but at a very reasonable price point.

If you’re looking for a communal hostel vibe, the HI DC Hostel near Chinatown is one of the most widely known hostels in the city.

Stay at West End/Georgetown

One of the most charming and colorful areas of the city is Georgetown , home to its namesake university and a bustling waterfront. Here, the streets are lined with boutique shops, local bakeries and cafes, and some of the city’s best restaurants and bars.

Additionally, the views of nearby Rosslyn, Virginia across the river are absolutely stunning! A cute and cozy place to stay in Georgetown is The Georgetown Inn . It’s located in a very central part of the neighborhood that’s close to the Circulator bus stop, which you can take for just $1 to the city center and main attractions.

Find accommodation in Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan

If you’re looking for a young, hip vibe, there’s no better place to go than Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan. These neighboring areas are some of the most popular places for the city’s young professionals to live.

With the influx of young people came a bunch of new and interesting cafes, bookshops, and bars as well. Here, you can find underground art galleries (we’ll get to that later) and colorful farmer’s markets adorning the streets.

In the Dupont Circle/Adams Morgan areas, my favorite hotel of all time is The LINE Hotel . Situated across the main street in Adams Morgan in a beautiful, big building, The LINE is a favorite local hangout spot as well as a hotel for visitors.

Of all the hotels in DC, I’d recommend staying at this one for solo travelers because there are always interesting people to meet in the lobby and bar area.

For those on a bit more of a budget, the HighRoad Hostel and Suites is also a well-loved choice. Situated in a central area of Adams Morgan, the hostel is perfect for solo budget travelers looking to meet others.

Things to Do in Washington DC

For sure, there’s A LOT of things to do in DC. It’s such a big and interesting city that tourists don’t get to do anything other than scratch its surface when they stay a week. Here are some of the must-dos when you’re in the US capital.

Hit the Museums and Monuments

Yes, this is totally the most obvious thing to do in DC, but I really don’t think the museums and monuments are something first timers should miss.

There are several free and low-cost museums all around Washington DC , and all of the monuments are out in the open for travelers to explore. One of my absolute favorite museums to visit on my own is the Newseum – it’s chock full of fascinating exhibits about reporting and current events in the United States and around the world.

The museums are typically only open during business hours, so if you’re hoping to avoid the big field trips and tour bus crowds, head over on weekdays in the morning when they first open.

Since the monuments are open most hours of the day, the best times to visit to avoid the crowds are early in the morning (I’m talking, like, sunrise), or late in the evening, when the monuments are all lit up in the night.

Aleah: I visited DC twice, and on both times, I visited the same three museums: the National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and National Gallery of Art. I could go back to those three again and again!

Thankfully, on my second visit last year (2018), I did manage to take in one more: the Library of Congress. It has spectacular interiors, and like the museums in DC, you can go in for free, too.

Tip: If you want to go in the highly-rated and much in-demand National Museum of African American History and Culture, check out their website on how to get a pass. They accept a limited number of visitors per day. I was never lucky enough to get one.

Sample International Food

One of the BEST things about Washington DC is the presence of many international groups. Aside from the embassies, which often host public events and talks for curious people, there are also hundreds of international restaurants all around the city.

From Eritrean food to Peruvian, Oaxacan eats to Szechuan spice, you can find literally any kind of food you’re craving if you look hard enough.

My favorite restaurant in the city for sampling international cuisines is Compass Rose . Located on 14th Street, an upbeat young neighborhood near Logan Circle, Compass Rose has a menu that spans the corners of the Earth.

Founded by a woman whose husband traveled and lived abroad extensively for work, she collected her favorite recipes from all over the world and founded Compass Rose to share them with the DC community. Here, you can try foods ranging from Georgia (the country) to South Korea, Portugal to Peru , and more.

Another, more low-key place to sample delicious international foods is at Union Market . This indoor market warehouse, located in the up-and-coming neighborhood of NoMa, is full of stalls with various types of international eats. Korean, southern-style American food, Burmese desserts, and more await you here.

Go for an Outdoor Wander

DC prides itself on having plenty of beautiful green spaces, and if you look hard enough, you can easily find them! Head to Meridian Hill Park on a weekend in the spring, summer, or fall for live music, picnickers, yoga, volleyball, and maybe even a communal drum circle.

You never know what you’re going to see or experience when you visit. Alternatively, head to Rock Creek Park or Great Falls for a more remote, tranquil experience.

At both parks, there are several trails and paths you can enjoy, surrounded by lush forests near the Potomac River. Within Great Falls, you can hike to the waterfall viewpoint or do a few rock scrambles…whatever suits your fancy.

Visit a Speakeasy

Within DC’s city limits, you can find plenty of bars, but some of the most unique ones you can visit are actual speakeasies. Located in hidden corners of buildings in highly populated areas, these speakeasies are a really fun way to go out for a drink or a snack…if you can find them.

My favorite speakeasy in the city is The Gibson. I’d say more about its whereabouts but I don’t want to ruin the surprise for you! Inside the Gibson, you’ll find prohibition-themed decor in a dark but kind of romantic area.

As a solo traveler, don’t be deterred by the romance of it all — it’s a perfect place to go solo, get cozy, and sip on a cocktail with a book in hand, or to people watch as people enter the speakeasy in surprise and delight.

Tour Offbeat Art Galleries

Of course, I’ve saved my absolute favorite for last: exploring DC’s somewhat “underground” art scene. While Washington DC isn’t known specifically for its artists and galleries, there’s actually a very lively creative scene within the city.

Dozens of local artists work together to bring street art, interactive art exhibits, and more to the city’s neighborhoods. To experience DC’s art scene yourself, my favorite places to view art in DC are Blind Whino and Dupont Underground.

Blind Whino is an art collective (workshop, event space + gallery) located in Southwest DC. Tucked inside a formerly abandoned church, the exterior is now painted all kinds of psychedelic colors. But even cooler is the inside of the building, which has open exhibits featuring local art exhibits and events. It’s a really cool place to spend a weekend afternoon viewing some really unique artwork.

Dupont Underground has a similar offbeat vibe, but is located in Dupont Circle in an old, subterranean streetcar facility. Now, they host regular art exhibitions and concerts that you can attend for a small fee. Coming here reminds me about how cool it is to repurpose unused space and turn it into something beautiful for the community.

Solo Travel Tips in Washington DC

Solo travel in Washington DC is safe and easy. Here’s how you can make your time there more enjoyable.

Go Where the Locals Go

If you’re traveling solo, chances are you won’t want to be surrounded by tourists and large groups 100% of the time. For solo travelers, I highly recommend spending less time in the main areas (museums, monuments, etc.) and more time exploring the neighborhoods, which have a much more relaxed and local vibe.

Within local DC haunts, you’ll have a much easier time meeting locals and getting a sense for the overall culture of the city. Plus, they’re usually less expensive for dining and shopping than in the more touristy places!

Take Public Transportation

Solo travel costs can add up if you’re not splitting with someone else. Taxis (and ride shares) in DC can start to add up really quickly, and aside from walking public transportation really is the best way to get around.

Fares typically range from $1 to $3.70 depending on the time of day, method of transportation, and your destination. You can simply put your destination into Google Maps and it will tell you exactly the best buses and metros to use to get there.

Pick up a SmarTrip card ($2 one time fee) at any metro station and load it up with a few dollars, and you’ll be good to go!

Eat Communally

There are SO many places in Washington DC that offer shared spaces for eating, coffee drinking, and cocktail sipping. Don’t be shy — use them!

Communal spaces like long tables in restaurants and markets are MEANT to foster social interactions and new friendships. Some of the best places to do this are at Union Market and The LINE Hotel (both mentioned above), as well as the Eaton Hotel.

With its hidden bars, underground art, and energetic neighborhoods, DC is the perfect place to explore for a day or a week. Hopefully this guide has shown you that there’s a lot to see and do in Washington DC as a solo traveler, and even more to discover once you take the time to explore this beautiful city.

Have you been to Washington, DC? Feel free to share your tips!

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• Solo Travel Tips: Washington, DC - February 27, 2019

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2 comments . leave new.

Great tips for DC! While I was there I stayed at HI DC Hostel in Chinatown and it was such a great location. DC also has bike sharing which was an easy way to get around too for solo travel.

Great review Kay. I literally hit DC with my fam some 30 years ago. We loved it. The Smithsonian was something else. We enjoyed staying in Alexandria, Virginia. A bit quieter than the city scene in DC.

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Embrace the Freedom: Solo Travel to Washington D.C. Like a Pro

Imagine stepping into a city steeped in history, pulsating with energy, and brimming with endless possibilities. That’s precisely what you’ll find when you embark on a solo journey to Washington, D.C.

As I discovered during my own adventure , this captivating capital holds the key to unlocking a world of exploration and self-discovery.

From wandering through iconic museums to marveling at grand government buildings, every moment in Washington, D.C., is an invitation to embrace freedom and forge your own path.

So join me as we delve into the wonders of solo travel in this remarkable city.

Page Contents

Key Takeaways

• Washington, DC, offers a unique experience for solo travelers with museums, government buildings, day trips, and guided tours.
• The city provides an opportunity for personal reflection on the nation’s past through its monuments and museums.
• Washington, DC is an easy first solo trip with a welcoming atmosphere for solo travelers and a fantastic tourism infrastructure.
• The best time to visit Washington, DC is in the fall or early spring to enjoy pleasant weather and avoid extreme temperatures.

Are you curious about solo travel in Washington, D.C.? Let’s start with an overview of what you can expect.

Solo travel to Washington, D.C., offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. Whether you’re on a solo trip to Washington, D.C., or have a few hours in the city, there are plenty of things to do alone in D.C.

From visiting iconic landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and the United States Capitol Building, to immersing yourself in the rich history of the Smithsonian museums , this city has something for everyone.

And don’t worry about safety – it is generally safe to travel alone in Washington, D.C., especially if you stick to tourist areas like Downtown D.C., Capitol Hill, and Arlington.

Embracing Solo Travel: The Advantages and Opportunities

Discover the advantages and opportunities of embracing solo exploration in the vibrant city of Washington, D.C.

As a solo traveler, you can experience the city at your own pace and delve into its rich history and culture.

Explore iconic landmarks like the National Mall, where you can marvel at the Washington Monument and visit world-renowned museums like the Smithsonian Institution.

Navigate the city easily using the efficient Metro system and discover hidden gems such as the White House, Capitol, and Library of Congress.

Embrace personal reflection as you wander through historical sites that provoke deep thought.

Washington, D.C. offers endless possibilities for solo travelers who desire to immerse themselves in a city filled with opportunities for exploration and adventure.

Getting Around: Navigating the Capital City

If you want to explore the capital city easily, you’ll find that navigating Washington, D.C. is a breeze with its efficient public transportation system.

As a solo traveler in Washington, D.C., I found it incredibly convenient to get around the city using the Metro. The Metro stations are conveniently located near popular tourist areas and provide easy access to all the major attractions.

Whether I wanted to visit the museums on the National Mall or explore historic neighborhoods like Georgetown, getting there was a piece of cake.

Plus, traveling by public transportation saved me from the hassle of dealing with traffic and finding parking. It’s the best way to navigate this bustling capital city and make the most of your solo travel experience in Washington, D.C.

Must-Visit Museums and Monuments for Solo Travelers

When exploring the capital city on your own, don’t miss out on visiting the incredible museums and monuments that offer a rich cultural experience.

Washington D.C. is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums, such as the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History and the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

These institutions house fascinating exhibits that will captivate any solo traveler’s interest.

For history enthusiasts, visiting the Lincoln Memorial and Capitol Hill is a must, where you can immerse yourself in the nation’s past and witness iconic landmarks firsthand.

If you visit during late March or early April, catch the enchanting Cherry Blossom Festival, where thousands of cherry blossom trees bloom along with stunning beauty.

From exploring historic neighborhoods like Georgetown and Dupont Circle to paying respects at Arlington National Cemetery, Washington D.C. offers an abundance of sights for solo travelers seeking freedom and cultural enrichment.

Cultural Exploration: Diverse Neighborhoods and Attractions

Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of D.C. by exploring diverse neighborhoods like Georgetown and Adams Morgan, where you’ll find an array of attractions to enjoy on your solo adventure.

From historic landmarks to unique museums, Washington DC offers a cultural exploration like no other city. Stroll through Georgetown’s charming streets lined with historic architecture and upscale shops.

In Adams Morgan, embrace the artsy vibe and vibrant nightlife. And don’t miss out on the city’s renowned museums, such as the National Gallery of Art and the Museum of Natural History, where you can delve into fascinating exhibits and learn about art, history, and science.

For history buffs, monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and the Library of Congress are must-visit spots for reflecting and appreciating our nation’s past.

Whether you’re interested in history or art or simply want to explore different neighborhoods, Washington D.C. has something for every solo traveler seeking cultural enrichment.

Keywords: solo travel, Washington DC, cultural exploration, diverse neighborhoods, attractions, museums, National Gallery of Art, Museum of Natural History

Culinary Adventures: Dining Solo in Washington D.C

The vibrant food scene in D.C. offers a variety of dining experiences that cater to solo travelers seeking culinary adventures.

As the capital of the United States, Washington, D.C. is not only rich in history and culture but also boasts an array of delectable options for solo diners.

Here are three must-try experiences for food-loving solo travelers visiting Washington, D.C.:

• Embark on a food tour: It is a fantastic way to explore the city’s diverse culinary offerings while learning about its history and culture. From iconic dishes like half-smoke sausages at Ben’s Chili Bowl to international cuisines at Union Market, you’ll be treated to a gastronomic adventure that will tantalize your taste buds.
• Visit Michelin-starred restaurants: For those seeking a fine dining experience, Washington, D.C. has several Michelin-starred restaurants that offer exceptional cuisine and impeccable service. Indulge in exquisite dishes prepared by renowned chefs and savor every bite as you enjoy your meal in elegant surroundings.
• Sample fare from food trucks: In recent years, the food truck scene in Washington, D.C. has exploded with an abundance of mobile eateries offering a wide range of delicious eats. From gourmet burgers to ethnic street food, these culinary gems provide quick and convenient options for solo travelers.

Whether you’re looking for unique flavors or world-class dining experiences, Washington, D.C. has something to satisfy every palate.

So don’t miss the opportunity to embark on a culinary adventure while visiting this captivating city!

Nighttime Magic: Experiencing Washington D.C. After Dark

After exploring the vibrant food scene, you’ll love experiencing the nighttime magic of Washington D.C. after dark. As a solo traveler, visiting Washington D.C. at night is an exhilarating experience that shouldn’t be missed.

The city comes alive with new energy, as the iconic landmarks and monuments are beautifully illuminated, creating a captivating atmosphere. Stroll along the National Mall and witness the majestic Lincoln Memorial glow against the night sky.

Or venture to the U Street Corridor for its lively nightlife and jazz clubs that will have you tapping your feet to the rhythm of this historic neighborhood.

With its well-lit streets and bustling activity, Washington D.C. feels safe as a solo traveler even after dark.

Cultivating Connections: Meeting New People During Your Trip

When exploring the vibrant city at night, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to meet new people and cultivate connections during your trip. Washington D.C. is a hub for solo travelers, attracting tourists from all over the world eager to explore its rich history and cultural offerings.

As a solo traveler myself, I’ve found that there are several ways to meet new people while enjoying the best things this city has to offer.

• Join walking tours: Sign up for guided walking tours that take you through the city’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods. Not only will you learn about the history of Washington D.C., but you’ll also have a chance to chat with other tourists who share your enthusiasm for exploration.
• Visit museums and galleries: Museums in Washington D.C. are not just places for quiet reflection; they are also great places to strike up conversations with fellow art enthusiasts or history buffs. Don’t hesitate to discuss the exhibits or join group activities organized by the museums.
• Attend local events: Watch for local events during your visit, such as music festivals, food fairs, or cultural celebrations. These events attract both locals and tourists alike, providing a perfect opportunity to mingle with like-minded individuals and make lasting connections.

Safety and Practical Tips: Making the Most of Your Solo Trip

To ensure a safe and enjoyable solo trip, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the city’s public transportation options. Washington D.C. offers a variety of transportation choices that make getting around easy and convenient.

The highly ranked Washington Metro is a popular option for solo travelers, with its extensive network of subway lines covering the entire city. It’s a cost-saving alternative to using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft.

When exploring the city alone, it’s always essential to keep an eye on your belongings and be aware of your surroundings. While crime rates in D.C. have decreased over the years, it’s still wise to take precautions as you would in any major city.

For female solo travelers, there are plenty of resources available that provide additional safety tips and support groups specifically tailored for women traveling alone.

Best Time to Visit: Planning Your Solo Adventure

If you want to experience pleasant weather and avoid the heat of summer and winter snow, consider planning your solo adventure to Washington D.C. during the fall or early spring.

Here are three reasons why these seasons are the best time to visit:

• The weather is delightful: During the fall, you can enjoy the crisp air and beautiful foliage as you explore the city’s historic landmarks and museums. In early spring, cherry blossoms add an extra sparkle to your solo adventure, creating a picturesque backdrop for your explorations.
• Crowds are manageable: By visiting in the off-peak seasons, you can avoid large crowds that flock to Washington D.C. during the summer and major holidays. This means shorter lines at popular attractions and a more peaceful experience overall.
• Plenty of events and festivals: Fall in Washington D.C. brings cultural events like film festivals, food tastings, and art exhibitions. In early spring, don’t miss the famous Cherry Blossom Festival which celebrates the blooming of cherry trees around the Tidal Basin.

Solo travel to Washington D.C. is an adventure that should not be missed.

As I stood before the Lincoln Memorial, the weight of history washed over me like a tidal wave. It was as if I could feel the struggles and triumphs of our nation’s past resonating through every stone.

This city is a living metaphor for resilience and progress, inviting solo travelers to explore its rich tapestry of museums, neighborhoods, and cultural attractions.

The friendly atmosphere, endless activities, and vibrant nightlife make Washington D.C. the perfect destination for your first solo trip.

So pack your bags and immerse yourself in this captivating city – you won’t regret it!

FAQs | Solo Travel Washington, DC

What is washington d.c. known for.

Washington D.C. is known for being the capital of the United States and is home to iconic landmarks such as the White House, Capitol, and the National Mall.

Can I travel to Washington D.C. alone?

Absolutely! Washington D.C. is an excellent destination for solo travelers. It offers many attractions, activities, and events that are perfect for exploring independently.

What are some must-visit museums in Washington D.C.?

Washington D.C. is famous for its museums. Some must-visit museums include the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of Natural History, and the Library of Congress.

Is it safe to travel alone in Washington D.C.?

Yes, Washington D.C. is generally a safe city for solo travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to take normal safety precautions like being aware of your surroundings and avoiding poorly lit or secluded areas at night.

What is the best time to visit Washington D.C.?

The best time to visit Washington D.C. is spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the city is less crowded. These seasons offer beautiful cherry blossoms and vibrant foliage.

Are there any free walking tours available in Washington D.C.?

Yes, there are several free walking tours available in Washington D.C. These tours are a great way to explore the city and learn about its history and landmarks. Some popular options include the National Mall walking tour and the Georgetown walking tour.

What are some of the best things to do alone in Washington D.C.?

There are plenty of things to do alone in Washington D.C. Some of the best include visiting the museums, exploring the National Mall, taking a food tour, and wandering through the charming streets of Georgetown.

How do I get around Washington D.C. as a solo traveler?

Washington D.C. has an efficient public transportation system that includes buses and the metro. You can also use ridesharing services or rent a bike to get around the city.

Is Washington D.C. a good destination for solo female travelers?

Yes, Washington D.C. is an excellent destination for solo female travelers. It’s a cosmopolitan city with plenty of resources and options for solo female travelers, including safe accommodations and women-friendly tours.

Are the museums in Washington D.C. free to enter?

Yes, most of the museums in Washington D.C. are free to enter. This makes it easy for solo travelers to explore and enjoy the rich cultural and historical offerings of the city without breaking the bank.

• https://blondwayfarer.com/perfect-solo-trip-washington-dc/
• https://shescatchingflights.com/solo-travel-washington-dc/
• https://sologuides.com/washington-dc/

A passionate solo traveler, embarking on thrilling adventures to explore the world's historical ruins. Fascinated by the intricate tales woven into ancient stones, she delves deep into the history of each site, unearthing the emotional stories that resonate through time. With every journey, Hayden strives to connect with the human experience of the past and share its profound significance with fellow explorers. Join her on a captivating expedition to unlock the secrets of bygone eras.

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WASHINGTON DC TRAVEL GUIDE

Know before you go washington, d.c. travel guide plan and book your washington, d.c. trip, about washington, d.c., washington, d.c. holidays, tipping in washington, d.c., travel requirements, electronic requirements, cyber security while traveling, best things to do in washington, d.c., cheap flights to washington, d.c., washington, d.c. places to stay, getting around washington, d.c., air travel tips, ground transportation, accommodation tips, eco-friendly things to do, eco-travel products, before you go, safety in washington, d.c., washington, d.c. sales tax, best time to visit washington, d.c., budget accommodations, best time to book travel.

This page may contain affiliate links for your convenience. For products, the goal is to first provide direct links to eco-friendly, ethical, and sustainable companies, and then to those same type (i.e., Climate Pledge Friendly Certification ), of brands that use Amazon, if possible. Therefore, you may see multiple links for one option. Should you make a purchase through any link, I will receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. See my Disclaimers & Disclosures and Privacy Policy for more information.

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WELCOME TO WASHINGTON, D.C.!

Hi! I’m Gwen, and my passion is using my sustainability knowledge and experience with my international solo global travel since 1995 to help the solo over 50’s be and stay adventurous through solo travel with their eco-friendly, responsible travel foot forward. Here is my travel Washington, D.C. travel guide from my Washington, D.C. travel so you plan and book your trip to Washington, D.C. with ease. What are you waiting for?

WASHINGTON, D.C.: DID YOU KNOW?

Welcome to the heart of the United States, where history unfolds on every street corner and the spirit of democracy echoes through grand monuments and iconic landmarks. Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, holds The White House, the official residence of the President of the United States, the Capitol Building, the seat of the U.S. government, “Embassy Row” of Massachusetts Avenue, the National Mall, National Zoo, The Smithsonian Institution’s numerous museums and galleries, the Dupont Underground, and more, making Washington, D.C. a testament to the rich tapestry of American heritage and the enduring ideals that have shaped the course of history.

Known for its impressive architecture, world-class museums, and vibrant cultural scene, Washington, D.C. beckons travelers from across the globe to explore its captivating blend of tradition and modernity. Designed by Pierre Charles L’Enfant, the French-born architect and city planner, the city’s wide boulevards and tree-lined streets envelope halls of power and influential leaders, a diverse tapestry of museums, galleries, and institutions that make this city a cultural mecca of the U.S.

Whether you’re drawn to the majestic memorials honoring past presidents, the dynamic energy of Capitol Hill, or the intellectual stimulation found in the Smithsonian museums, D.C. offers an unparalleled experience for every type of traveler.

WASHINGTON, D.C. TRAVEL PLANNING

In addition to U.S. holidays , Washington, D.C. may observe additional local holidays. It may be a good idea to check what local holidays they celebrate to see if there are any public service, school, or other closures as this may impact your tourist itinerary, ability to obtain travel or other services, or it could mean more tourists and/or higher prices in Washington, D.C.

Take a few moments to see if there are Washington, D.C. holidays to better help you plan Washington, D.C. travel.

See tipping guidelines in my USA Travel Guide for tipping in Washington, D.C.

U.S. cities and states do not impose additional travel requirements, such as documentation and vaccinations, other than those imposed at the national level. See the USA Travel Guide for all USA travel requirements.

All U.S. cities electric outlets require a Type A (two prong) and/or Type B (three prong) adapter. See the USA Travel Guide for electrical requirements in the USA.

Having a virtual private network (VPN) service and portable WiFi is always a good idea to not just stay connected, but stay connected securely in your hotel and all public spaces, like airports, train stations, and restaurants.

• Portable WiFi Hotspot for Travel: Experience seamless connectivity with the Solis Lite, your pocket-friendly companion that offers secure and reliable mobile WiFi hotspot coverage in over 135...
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• Built-in 4700 mAh Power Bank: Stay online all day with 16+ hours of battery life in your Solis Wi-Fi hotspot. Keep all your gadgets charged on-the-go.

• Perfect Case for SIMO Solis Lite 4G LTE WiFi Mobile Hotspot
• Featured Design: Strong compact light weight case, the round square design best matching the round shape of the Solis and making it easy to in and out of the case
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GUIDES & ITINERARIES

Use my solo travel itineraries, travel tips, day trip ideas, maps, and recommended things to do in Washington, D.C. and surrounding Virginia and Maryland destinations, all from my travel in Washington, D.C., to plan your best Washington, D.C. solo travel.

The more I travel in Washington, D.C. the more that gets added to this Washington DC Travel Guide. Keep checking back.

Best Washington, D.C. Tours

Best food tours in washington, best boat tours in washington, d.c., best day trips from washington, d.c., how to book washington, d.c. travel.

It’s important to book the top three travel necessities early : flights, accommodations and ground transportation.

No Washington, D.C. guide would be complete without the booking tools below. These, along with fun Washington, D.C. things to do and ecotourism ideas , will allow you to realize your solo trip to Washington D.C.

Flights to D.C. arrive at Washington Dulles Airport and Ronald Regan National Airport, which is much closer to Washington, D.C. and makes for easier travel.

With the ever-growing demand for airline tickets to Washington, D.C., flights book quicker these days. Find cheap flights to Washington now .

Don’t Wait to Book Your Flight to Ronald Regan National

Second in importance to buying airline tickets to Washington, D.C. is finding the best place to stay in Washington for your Washington, D.C. solo travel. Develop your Washington, D.C. travel itinerary now and find the best Washington travel accommodations to knock one more travel planning item off your solo travel list.

Find the Best Solo Travel Accommodations in Washington , D.C.

Washington, D.C. has all forms of transportation, including Carpoolworld , Uber, Lyft, and other possible regional ridesharing services and apps (research in advance if they are in your destination area).

Of course, you can easily get a taxi or find a rental a car in Washington if it better suits your Washington, D.C. travel itinerary.

Find the Best Deals on Washington Rental Cars

Washington, D.C. also has regional buses , the metro , and is part of the Amtrak train system.

WASHINGTON, D.C. ECO-TRAVEL IDEAS

There are ways to reduce your eco and carbon footprint through air travel, accommodations, tours, and activities in Washington, D.C. To help avoid greenwashing businesses, here are some eco-friendly or sustainable travel (also called responsible travel) tips and resources, you can use to book your travel.

Skyscanner provides a ‘Greener flights’ filter highlighting flights that emit less CO2.

Purchase carbon offsets throu gh your airline  or through a third party, like MyClimate.org, Carbonfund.org , or terrapass . Carbon offsetting allows you to buy a certificate to reduce carbon emissions, a major contributor to climate change, which in turn contribute community projects across countries to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Try to avoid flying to Washington, D.C. by taking a regional bus or the Amtrak train.

In and around D.C., the metro is your best bet for accessing multiple locations while saving time and money.

When booking a rideshare in Washington, select the Uber Green option, instead of a traditional rideshare, to support the use of electric cars and carpooling for cleaner transportation in Washington, D.C.

The best eco-friendly forms of ground transportation in Washington, D.C. are public transportation, walking, or renting a bicycle or electric scooter .

Explore Washington Bike and Electric Scooter Rentals

Lime also has electric scooters to rent in Washington, D.C. for fast and clean commuting in select cities .

Look for Washington, D.C. accommodations with the following self and third-party assessed certifications when you book:

Green Globe – Green Globe certifies hotels, resorts, conference centers, transportation, attractions, tour operators, and other tourism businesses globally on sustainable operations and management. Look for USA Green Global members .

Green Key Global is an internationally recognized environmental certification for the lodging and meetings industries, including hotels and hostels, campsites and holiday parks, restaurants and attractions in 65 countries. Search for Green Key awarded sites.

Living Building Challenge – if you want to stay in a true, sustainable building, find one certified by the Living Building Challenge. LBC’s certification directory shows all project types globally. Hopefully they will put in a filter soon to allow searching by hotels or hospitality type.

LEED Certified – the USGBC’s LEED Certified label on buildings, like many of the Marriott’s hotels , are those that have verifiably employed multiple and varying green building strategies to improve human and environmental health. Search the LEED directory for USA certifications .

Green Lodging Program – Audubon International has an environmental stewardship certification through third-party verification. Search its certified members directory .

GSTC Certified – the Global Sustainable Tourism Council provides global standards for sustainable travel and tourism, as well as international accreditation for sustainable tourism Certification Bodies. Booking sites that offer GSTC certified sustainable are bookdifferent , EcoHotels , and Transat .

Another way to find accommodations in Washington implementing eco-friendly or sustainable practices, certified or not, is to reserve a Booking.com Travel Sustainable accommodation . Booking.com started the Travel Sustainable program in 2022.

Find Your Travel Sustainable Stay in Washington, D.C.

Washington, D.C. has ecotourism ideas available to explore for your next vacation.

Search Green Global and Green Key awarded members for eco-friendly activity providers in Washington, D.C. Some may also have the GSTC Certified logo.

Top Eco-Friendly Activities in Washington, D.C.

There are more ways to do your part for the planet in your responsible travel, like bringing sustainable and eco-friendly products to protect Washington D.C.’s environment. 

For more ideas on how to travel with the planet in mind, read my 10 Easy Eco-Travel Tips and view my suggested Eco Travel Resources to learn more.

WASHINGTON, D.C. TRAVEL SAFETY

Buy USA travel insurance and international medical insurance for your Washington, D.C. solo travel to protect yourself and cover for emergencies.

In addition to the travel safety tips in the USA Travel Guide , please ensure you research the local travel and weather advisories in advance and respect warnings not to travel.

Let people know where are you going, provide them your itinerary, and ensure you have safety and emergency measures provided for in your travel belongings.

Read up on the latest updates for safety, keep alert, and avoid walking in certain areas at night.

WASHINGTON, D.C. BUDGET TRAVEL TIPS

Washington levies a statewide sales tax and cities levy an additional, local sales tax. Where you vacation in Washington could increase your holiday budget. Reviewing Washington, D.C.’s sales tax rates may help you prepare your travel budget.

Washington, D.C’s high tourist season, and most expensive time to visit, is in the summer (June to August). Spring time, such as during the blooming of the cherry blossoms, and year-end holiday travel can also be pricey. The least expensive time to go to Washington, D.C. would be in the shoulder season to winter months (September to early November and January to March).

Washington, D.C. experiences very hot and humid summer (and sometimes autumn) months. Ultimately, for nice weather, less tourists, and lower costs, recommended months for visiting Washington, D.C. are March, September, and October. Still, I recommend booking well in advance. Dress in layers for versatility of weather during these months.

Hostels could save you a lot of money on Washington, D.C. accommodations, especially if you stay in a dorm-style room. Save more money by booking well in advance.

Many hostels also offer private rooms, which I choose from time to time. Private rooms in hostels could possibly be cheaper than hotels in Washington, D.C. – it depends on where you stay and how far in advance you reserve.

Don’t overlook exploring hostels in Washington, D.C. if you’re on a budget.

Reserve Your Washington Hostel

Washington, D.C. is a pricey destination. The sooner you book your reservations, the more you’re likely to save money and get the best flight, accommodation, and rental car choices and deals.

Ready to book Washington solo travel? Don’t miss out and find the best Washington travel deals . The best time to book travel is now . Bundling flight, hotel and/or transportation reservations may even save you more money when traveling Washington state.

Book Washington Travel Early to Save Money

PERSONAL STORY

I grew up in Northern Virginia area as well as lived there as a young adult, so I am quite familiar with the entire Beltway area. This was ideal to being able to catch the ever-expanding metro into Washington, D.C. to take in sporting or music events, as well as enjoy the food scene and museums. Washington, D.C. pretty much as it all for an eclectic and educational visit. Just try to avoid driving. It will make your visit much easier, trust me.

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Sojourns with Sue

All the unique cool places for 50+ Solo travelers!

What’s it like visiting Washington DC solo?

Last Updated on March 13, 2024

As an American, Washington DC was always on “the bucket list” of places I should take my kids. Somehow that hasn’t happened. Now they are older, living their own busy lives, and I realized that I really wanted to visit for myself! So I booked myself a nice solo trip, looked through all of the many sights to see and whittled the list down to what was interesting to me alone! So self-indulgent, but satisfying! Read on for my 3 day trip report about what it’s like visiting Washing DC solo, and hopefully you will be able to use some of these ideas to plan your own D.C. trip!

I must admit to being a bit surprised at what a pretty city Washington D.C. is! A common myth is that no buildings in the city can be taller than the Washington Monument, but actually the ordinance is based upon the width of the street, to a maximum height of 130 feet (commercial streets) and 90 feet (residential streets), and 160 feet for parts of Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. Or so I’ve been told by the internet (and a tour guide). 😉 Anyway… the low building heights give it a different feeling than other large cities. Also there is so much green space! It’s really pretty and very pleasant to walk around.

N ote that all of the sights were free except the ones with a $.

The White House

Capitol building, moonlit monuments tour $, smithsonian national museum of american history, national archives museum, supreme court, library of congress, united states botanic garden, nasa headquarters, international spy museum $, citizenm hotel, old ebbitt grill, capitol building cafeteria, transportation, solo travelers in washington dc, president is in trouble movies.

• President isn't actually in physical danger movies

Map of Mentioned Places

Pin me for later, what to see.

Be prepared to jump through some hoops to get a ticket for a White House Tour. For US Citizens, basically within a certain time frame before you visit you need to contact your Senator or Representative to request a ticket. Then you need to wait until about 2 weeks before the date of the tour to find out if you got a ticket or not. This makes things difficult for planning and getting tickets for other activities, but for me at least, it was worth the added stress.

For citizens from other countries contact your embassy in Washington DC. In researching this online I found many articles saying that non-US citizens could NOT tour the White House, but that is not the case now. There were many non-citizens touring the White House when I was there in September 2023.

The tour starts off with going through 3 screening areas/ metal detectors. They are very strict about what you can bring in: only a wallet (not handbag or any bag), glasses and a phone. They don’t have storage there either, but looks like there are nearby places you can find to pay to store your stuff if you need to.

The tour is self-guided. You can download an app (WHExperience) and use that to read and/ or listen about the rooms/sights you are seeing. Since it is self-guided you can go at your own pace and don’t need to stand in the lines people tend to form if you aren’t particularly interested in studying every single thing. It was fun seeing how some of the carpets were just rolled up a bit so us tourists weren’t stepping on them (ie. these rooms are still being used now). The thought of so many Presidents and world leaders having been in those very rooms I was standing in was a bit thrilling, felt like I could “touch” history. Also, the thought that this is where all the news continues to happen right now just a few feet away is wild!

The tour took me less than 1/2 an hour from beginning to end.

There is a gift shop right across from the White House, which was pretty good actually: White House Gifts . Large selection of reasonably priced souvenirs. Also, if you spent more than $50 you could get a fun photo taken for free. Here’s mine 😀

The official White House Visitor Center is a few blocks down from the White House and is definitely worth a visit. In fact, if you don’t end up getting a White House ticket plan on spending some time here to get your dose of White House history. It has exhibits about the White House and the First Families and a nice gift shop with high quality prints, jewelry, Christmas ornaments etc.

Be aware that you need to go through a metal detector to enter the White House Visitor Center. I made the mistake of entering the building with a cup of coffee, and had 2 security people YELL at me that drinks were not allowed! I sheepishly slinked outside to throw my coffee away. Jeez!

You can sign up for a tour of the Capitol Building on their web site . If you’d like to visit the House or Senate galleries you can get a pass to do so from your Representative or Senator. I had contacted one of my state’s representatives and stopped by her office on the morning of my Capitol Building tour. If you’d rather see the Senate in session instead of the House of Representatives be sure to contact your Senator instead. I heard non-US citizens being instructed to go to the House and Senate Appointment Desk in the Capitol Building to get gallery passes.

Here I am in the elevator of my State Representative’s office building to pick up my Capitol pass. Kind of fun that their tarps have the official seal on them.

The tour starts with a short, but very informative, movie. Then the guide leads you through the Crypt, the Rotunda, and the National Statuary Hall. Many tours are going on at once so they have you wear earphones and your guide speaks to you through them. It worked out well. It was a very interesting tour! About 2 hours long.

It seemed that everything I read recommended taking a Moonlit Monuments tour while in DC. I am really glad I followed that advice. The tour I took was “ Washington DC Moonlit Tour of the National Mall & Stops at 10 Sites ” with Signature Tours. It was around $70 for the 3 hour tour. There were about 25 of us on a large, comfortable, air-conditioned bus. Our guide, Sally, was wonderful! She spoke over a microphone on the bus, telling us all about the history of what we were seeing. She was so knowledgeable and could make some possibly dry subject matter feel very alive and interesting. It was interesting to learn all of the symbolism used in each of the monuments. As you may have guessed from the tour’s title it stopped at 10 sites. It was a good number of stops with 10 to 25 minutes to get out and take pictures, look around, use the bathroom etc!

This Smithsonian Museum (no ticket/reservation required) features “artifacts of all kinds—from gowns to locomotives—to preserve an enduring record of our past for the American people.” My favorite exhibits were the “Entertainment Nation”, (items from popular movies and TV shows) and The First Ladies exhibit. The First Ladies exhibit shows many of their inaugural gowns and other famous outfits and accessories. Also on display are the formal China sets each First Lady chose.

The National Archives Museum is where you can see Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. It’s free and tickets are not required, though you can book a timed entry slot for $1. No photos at all are allowed. I lucked out going mid afternoon on a Thursday and the crowd was very light. It was indeed impressive to see these famous documents, in a rather dim room, encased in sturdy cabinets. The Declaration of Independence was so faded I could barely make out the writing. I was surprised how big the pieces of paper were! Probably about 3’x3′.

You can visit the Supreme Court building for free with no reservation. When the Court is in session they allow visitors to watch on a first come first served basis. On the day I visited Court was not in session but they offered a 20 minute lecture in the Courtroom for visitors. We sat in the Courtroom and a guide told us all about how the Court works and answered questions. There is a gift shop and you can go to the Courthouse cafeteria. Very interesting to see and to be in the “room where it happens”.

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world with millions of books, maps, newspapers, etc. It’s the main research arm of the United States Congress. Admission is free but you do need to get a timed entry pass to go in. You can also apply for a library card online, then when you get there you get your photo taken for the library card and you can go into the Reading Rooms.

Look here for the full list of all fun facts about the Library of Congress. My favorite parts were the beautiful design of the Great Hall, Thomas Jefferson’s Personal Library (He sold it to the Library in 1815 after the British burned down the original Library in the War of 1812), and the Gutenberg Bible (one of 3 existing perfect copies of this first mechanical printing of the Bible).

There is a tunnel between the Capitol Building and the Library of Congress, so you can go through the tunnel to the other if you finish touring one. I’d hoped this would be like a creepy, cobweb filled, old-timey tunnel, but it’s just like a long office hallway. 😀 Still, nice to not have to go back out in the weather if it’s not great.

This free, no-reservation-needed, “living plant museum” was a nice break from the heavy government & history sights in which I’d been immersed. Green houses and outdoor gardens representing different plants/climates from around the US (world?) are featured. This is right on the National Mall, about a short walk from Capitol Hill.

This DC Headquarters office primarily handles NASA’s Leadership and “red tape”. They have a few interesting exhibits you can stop in and see for free. The most fun is a real moon rock you can touch! They also have a nice gift shop. This was an unexpected, fun place I stumbled upon.

The Spy Museum ended up being one of my surprise favorites in Washington! I had really wanted tour the FBI, but I missed the time frame for requesting a ticket in advance. So, I ended up going to this museum as a sort of consolation prize. I ended up spending over 2 hours here and I really had fun and found it interesting. (I did want to be one of Charlie’s Angels as a kid, after all!). There are tons of exhibits and artifacts related to real life spies!

When you enter you are given a card with a spy identity. Then in each exhibit room you can choose to use your card at a kiosk to solve little puzzles related to that exhibit in your “spy role”. I thought this might be dumb at first, but I ended up loving it!

There’s a great gift shop full of fun spy things! The entrance ticket was about $30.

Where to Stay

I chose this hotel based on its location (near the sights, and a 5-minute walk to a Metro station), cost (less than $300 per night), and because it looked interesting and cool! It is a European Hotel chain, very young, modern, and eco-conscious. You check yourself in and out via a kiosk in the lobby. There is an employee there to help if needed. The ground floor has a full bar and serves a fairly limited menu. They do serve a buffet breakfast in the morning. There’s a rooftop bar with a great view of the Capitol Building dome.

The rooms in the CitizenM are all exactly the same. All have an XL King size bed, and ensuite shower/bathroom. There was plenty of room for one person. Two people might feel a bit cramped. The room has an iPad to use to control the TV, lights, temperature, and blinds. The bed/sheets were very nice and comfortable. I found the pillows way too firm for me and they quickly gave me perfectly soft pillows in exchange. Great shower with a rainforest overhead shower head and a hand-held one.

Where to Eat

Because this was a solo trip, and I was generally exhausted by the end of each day from all the walking, I ended up just grabbing food at my hotel many times. They did have some good sandwiches and pizzas. They also had a breakfast buffet I got once and didn’t think it was worth it.

This restaurant is right across the street from the White House. It is the oldest “saloon” in DC, and through its various incarnations has been visited by The Rolling Stones, Stephen Colbert, and Presidents Ulysses S. Grant, Andrew Johnson, George H. W. Bush and Theodore Roosevelt. What’s not to like?

It’s very pretty inside and the food was very good. I went for lunch and got a Turkey sandwich, salad and martini! The clientele was about 1/4 old white guys in suits and 3/4 tourists. One old white guy in a suit walked by my table, closely followed by a young guy in a suit with an earpiece in (like a Secret Service agent!) I couldn’t figure out who he was though. But still…!

One late afternoon I went down to the Wharf area. This is a relatively new area featuring many waterside restaurants. I got a delicious cheeseburger! I recommend for a good burger!

After your Capitol Building tour be sure to stop by its cafeteria for a tiny Capitol Building White Chocolate dessert! (They have a good salad bar too.)

I planned my days out to see sights that were in approximately the same area so I was able to walk most of the time. Otherwise I used Lyft from and to the airport, and the Metro and buses. The Metro seem clean and safe. It also looks like a 1980’s version of the “future”.

I felt comfortable as a solo traveler in the nation’s capital. With most of my activities booked in the morning and afternoon, I felt very safe walking and taking public transportation.

However, the tourist sights are deserted at night, and most solo female travelers would not feel comfortable wandering alone then. I had only one night where I was out (for the Moonlit Monuments Tour), and I took Lyft back to my hotel when my tour ended around 9:30 PM.

Because of the security features of the Lyft and Uber apps I feel quite safe utilizing them. I always make sure to double check that the license plate on the car matches the one listed in the app. Two times before (once in New York City and once in Chicago) I had a random car pull up in front of me, acting like they were my ride! The first time it happened I actually started to get in the car, but realized something was wrong when I didn’t see the usual navigation system on the dashboard! The second time I checked the license plate, saw that it didn’t match what Lyft told me to expect. I walked away, telling the guy “You’re not my ride” as he tried to convince me to get in anyway. Ugh! Scary.

I felt safe traveling on the Washington Metro during the populated daytime hours. One thing I am always sure to do while waiting for the train is to stand with my back close to the wall. I never stand near the tracks, after getting freaked out by stories of people being pushed onto the tracks!

Dining alone in DC was a piece of cake. There are many solo diners. I love reviewing the photos I’ve taken or reading about the next places I’m going to see on my trip while dining solo. Another fun thing to do is plan to FaceTime with a friend back home and “have dinner together”. If you wear earbuds and speak at a regular volume it doesn’t bother anyone. So far I’ve never had a bad experience dining solo. (knock on wood!)

Additional thoughts

One weird “fun fact” about me is that my favorite type of action movies are of the “President is in trouble” genre! I’m not sure when this started, but over time I’ve found that pretty much the only time I will choose to watch an action movie is if it involves the President being in trouble. haha. I don’t want the President to actually be in trouble, BTW! There’s something about all of the protocol, urgency, gravity, and I guess, patriotism, that makes these types of movies interesting. Viewing these movies made my trip to Washington more fun in that I felt very familiar with many of the sights I was seeing! Of course, I was vigilant while visiting the White House to ensure I was able to help should the Secret Service need me! 😀 I am always on the lookout for a good President is in trouble movie. Here are some that I’ve enjoyed. Please let me know if there are more you can think of that you like!

• Air Force One
• White House Down
• Olympus Has Fallen
• Angel Has Fallen
• Loyal Opposition – this is 1998 made for TV movie starring Knots Landing’s Joan Van Ark. I stumbled across this on Amazon Prime and it is one of the corniest (and most enjoyable) movies I’ve seen! If you’re in the mood for ultimate 90’s (meant to be serious) camp check it out!

President isn’t actually in physical danger movies

Other movies where the President isn’t in physical danger are also fun! Especially to watch right before or after your visit to Washington DC:

• The American President
• All the President’s Men

Washington DC is a fascinating, walkable, and pretty city! I would love to visit again to be able to explore more museums and different parts of the city. Please let me know of your favorite DC places that I’ve missed! Thanks for reading!

Washington D.C. looks so interesting to visit! Thank you for the informational guide 🙂

I love traveling solo to Washington DC. There’s so much to do and see. Love this overview and will check out a few more places like the Spy Museum the next time I visit.

Wow! Great post! I appreciate how you listed prices for the tours you did. Your photos are great! I also loved the details you gave for food and lodging. Definitely saving this post for future reference!

We visited with our girls a number of years ago. We talked about visiting “the Mall”. Let’s just say, my oldest was rather disappointed when she found out it didn’t actually involved shopping!

Wow! You covered a lot of ground there! The Moonlight tour looks fantastic and you got some wonderful photo memories!!

Very interesting report. Inspires me to visit our nations capital .

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Katrina warren writes about all the cheap attractions and restaurants you can find in washington dc, plus transportation and accommodation tips.

Katrina Warren, CEO of Alexandrian Consulting , is here to share all the cheap attractions and restaurants you can find in Washington DC, plus transportation and accommodation tips!

Washington DC is the capital of the United States of America, but it's more than government buildings and monuments. It's home to over 700,000 people. The city is filled with a beautiful culture that expands outward from the national mall.

Unfortunately, with so many state galas and embassy parties many believe visiting DC is very disconnected or stuffy. Alas, Washington is one of the most friendly cities in America. DC is extremely easy to navigate with multiple forms of transportation and tons of signage.

Smithsonian's National Gallery of Art

There are a ton of free art galleries with the highlights being the Smithsonian's National Gallery of Art . Those who visit in the summer get to view the galleries and the sculpture garden in full bloom. One of my favorite museums is the Hirschorn which brings infinity rooms to DC.

Jazz in the Garden: Sculpture Gardens, National Mall

Every summer, the National Gallery of Art hosts Jazz in the Garden. This free event takes place every Friday at 6 PM. Residents bring chairs and blankets and can purchase sangria on site. Guests are welcome to sit by their favorite sculpture or relax by the center fountain while enjoying the two-hour performance. I love attending this event because everyone dances and has a great time. It’s a great way to meet new people who have been in the city for years.

Ice Skating: Sculpture Gardens, National Mall

Each winter, the National Gallery of Art sponsors an ice rink in the middle of the Sculpture Gardens. Visitors can rent skates and enjoy the rink for two hours for under $20. After skating, take a walk to the national Christmas tree. The tree is surrounded by a tree from each of the 50 states. I have always loved ice skating but for those who are new to the activity, there are lessons available.

Artechouse is a small gallery chain that focuses on bringing art and technology together. This gallery is for adults only after 6 PM and has a full bar. The art installations switch entirely every four to six months. Every spring, they have an incredible cherry blossom installation which is very intriguing.

Yoga at the National Building Museum

Yoga at the National Building Museum has been on my to-do list for months. Finally, you can participate in yoga every Saturday inside one of DC's most beautifully constructed buildings. This event is also $20, and mats are not provided. If you are coming from out of town, feel free to bring a towel or blanket instead.

History Buffs

Museum of Natural History

Washington is full of history and amazing history museums. For lovers of nature, the Museum of Natural History is a must. This free museum showcases human evolution starting 50,000 years ago. You can also see how our planet looked thousands of years ago and see how it's evolved.

Holocaust Memorial Museum

One of my favorite museums is the Holocaust museum . Tickets are only $10. This museum not only teaches you about the Holocaust but walks you through the life of someone who the Nazis caught.

Museum of the Bible

Christians and history lovers will be amazed by the Museum of the Bible. This museum has full life models of the stories every Christian child was taught. This museum is a little more expensive with tickets online starting at $20 and $25 at the door.

Animal Lovers

National Zoo

The National Zoo is consistently overlooked because it isn't close to the national mall. However, this free Smithsonian zoo is one of my favorite places to visit in the winter. Every year they host Zoo Lights. A free nightly event in which the entire zoo is lit up with twinkling lights. It's a whole event filled with slides, a carousel, hot chocolate, and light shows. Most of the animal enclosures are still available to visit.

Food and Libations

Washington can be a very expensive place to eat. There are thousands of restaurants, and you should budget at least $10 for every meal. If you're visiting the national mall, each museum has a cafe or restaurant, but they will cost you a premium.

As soon as you feel hungry, head out as there are very few restaurants within a few blocks of the national mall. The mall is known for its food trucks. Their prices range, but there are some good deals.  Eating on the mall will allow you to see daily life in the city. There are many sports leagues that have games in the evening in the shadow of the National Monument.

Union Market

Some of the best places for cheap eats are Union Market . This food hall in North East DC has over a dozen options inside and around the Market. This place gives rooftop vibes without the premium cost. There are literally picnic tables on the roof, and anyone can take their food up there and enjoy it. The surrounding restaurants are known for their happy hours which include food as well as drinks.

H Street is very popular for its small eateries. There are some great deals to be had with restaurants ranging from soul food to beer halls to sushi. This is also a great location for cheap bar hopping as the entire H Street corridor is full of bars with deals.

Adams Morgan

Adams Morgan is another great bar area with Madam’s Organ being at the center of it all. Tryst is a great coffee shop that is open late and serves alcoholic drinks. It’s known for being a great space to meet new people.

Accomodations

The best way to save money on accommodations in DC is to not stay in DC.Therefore, Crystal City, Arlington, and Clarendon, Virginia, are great places to stay because they are within walking distance to a metro stop and will get you to most tourist destinations in less than thirty minutes. These areas also have their own great restaurants and culture to explore.

Generator DC

The only hostel I recommend is Generator DC if you'd rather stay in the city. Generator hostel is a great option for solo travelers that are not comfortable with paying $200+ a night to stay in downtown DC. I have stayed in Generator hostels in Europe and have been consistently impressed by their hostels. They are located in NorthWest DC, equidistant from Adams Morgan and Dupont Circle. These two neighborhoods are known for their nightlife and brunches.

Other Options

DC has four designated quadrants: NorthEast, NorthWest, SouthEast, and SouthWest. I encourage first-time visitors to stay in SouthWest or NorthEast DC. These areas contain fewer corporate and residential buildings.

The most popular hotels include the Mandarin Oriental, The Westin and The Conrad. If you choose to book an Airbnb, try to stay on a street that has a state name like Connecticut Avenue or Rhode Island Avenue to stay on a busier street.

Getting Around

The Circulator

DC has endless transportation options. The Circulator is your best option if you plan on sticking with the popular tourist attractions. It costs $1 to ride, and it goes around the popular sites, including Georgetown, the National Mall, and Dupont Circle.

The Metro is a great option to get in and out of the city. It also has a stop at the DCA airport. As of summer 2022, the Metro is running on limited service. Therefore, I encourage you to check the schedule ahead of time as some trains only run every twenty minutes. The Metro is the safest and easiest way to get around. To pay, you can add a metro card (SmartTrip) to your apple wallet.

I could go on and on because DC is an ever-evolving city. So I'll leave you with one last free activity that takes some work but is very much worth it. As of May 2022, White House tours are available to the public. To request a tour, reach out to your congressman or senator. They will be your point of contact. It is tough to get a ticket, so reach out in advance.

I hope you enjoy your visit to our beautiful city. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions! Happy travels!

Safe travels!

Ready for more?

The Perfect 3 Days in Washington D.C. Weekend Itinerary

By: Author Contributor

Posted on Last updated: 3rd March 2023

Categories Itineraries , USA

Last Updated on 3rd March 2023 by Sophie Nadeau

While it’s nearly impossible to see the entirety of Washington D.C in 3 days , 72 hours in the USA capital is a great start. This 3-day sample itinerary is an excellent example of how to spend 3 days in Washington D.C. , making sure to get the best of the best of the city. 

There’s a good reason that Washington D.C. is one of the most visited cities in the United States. The city boasts a fabulous foodie scene, beautiful artwork and music. This is not to mention that some of the most well-known and prestigious museums and famous landmarks in the USA are to be found here.

The vibrant city offers a wide variety of experiences, things to see, and a whole lot to learn. Attractions and landmarks are some of the best you can find anywhere, and it’s hard to ever be bored, even when you’re simply strolling around and allowing the city to reveal itself to you.

While there is enough here to see and do to take up a week’s worth of time, 3 days is plenty enough to see some of the best tours and attractions and get a good taste of what Washington D.C has to offer. 

Tips for Visiting Washington D.C

Day 1 in washington d.c.: main monuments, day 2 in washington d.c.: capitol & museums, day 3 in washington d.c.: neighborhoods of d.c., day trip to alexandria, national cherry blossom festival, day trip to arlington national cemetery, national botanical gardens, kayak down the potomac river, tour the pentagon, explore the mansion on o’street, where to stay in washington d.c., a final note on spending a long weekend in washington d.c..

When to visit: The best time to visit Washing D.C is during the spring and autumn months. High temperatures and large tourist crowds are gone, and the landscapes are full of colors of either cherry blossoms in the spring, and changing leaves in the autumn. There is a small caveat to this, and that is that the city is the busiest in late spring around cherry blossom time!

How to get around: Washington D.C. is a very walkable city and can easily be explored on foot so be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes.

Public transportation comes in an array of varieties as well, with the metro being the most popular, followed by the circular bus, Old Town Trolley (check trolley details here) , and express bus routes.  You can also rent bicycles here.

How to stay safe: Overall, Washington D.C safe city as long as you pay attention uses common sense, and take certain tips and protocols into consideration.

To stay safe in Washington D.C be sure to pay attention to your surroundings, always carry a little bit of cash, avoid walking around side streets and alleys alone or during the nighttime, travel in groups or well-lit areas, and use precautions when drinking alcohol. 

3 days in Washington D.C. Suggested Itinerary

Whether you are looking to experience the exciting nightlife, indulge in delicious cuisine, wander through years of history, shop till you drop, or relax on the banks of the Potomac, here is an excellent 3-day itinerary sample for a fun and memorable visit to Washington D.C. 

Morning: Start your exciting 3-day weekend in Washington D.C by taking a Segway Tour around the city, zooming past all of the most prominent historical monuments. Gander at popular landmarks such as The White House, the Capitol Building, the Jefferson Memorial,  the Washington Monument, and the Library of Congress.

It’s the best way to dive deep into the political and important side of the city and check off prominent bucket list items. Segways are widely popular in the city and a great alternative to the traditional bicycle tour.  Check prices and availability here.

Of course, getting around the major monuments on your own two feet is also always an option and walking tours remain one of the most popular ways to see D.C. together with a local guide. Discover more details about walking tours here. E-bikes are another popular option- check prices and availability for E-Bikes here.

Afternoon: Have lunch at the iconic Founding Farmers D.C, a traditional farm-to-table restaurant and one of the best places to eat in the city. After lunch, head up the Washington Monument, where you’ll be rewarded with gorgeous views. of the city.

If you’ve taken a tour in the morning, then the afternoon is the time where you can go back and head to the spots you didn’t get to see on the tour. There are several museums close to the National Mall, including the Art Museum of the Americas and The Octagon Museum.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is also set within this area and is a museum showcasing exhibitions about African American history.

Evening: To end your first day in Washington D.C, head over the to Lincoln Memorial to watch the candy colors dance across the sky across the nearby reflective pool. Most tourists have left by this time of day, leaving the area peaceful with gorgeous views of the warm colors setting deep over the pool.

If you haven’t had enough of the big monuments yet, then another option, as opposed to seeing the Lincoln Memorial, is to go on a Big Bus panoramic tour . This will allow you to enjoy the monuments around dusk (depending on the time of the year) and see some of the USA’s most famous monuments illuminated.

Another exciting option is to see the Monuments by Moonlight Electric Vehicle Tour. If you opted for a Segway tour in the morning and would now like to see DC on foot, consider booking this night tour of the National Mall.

Later, go for dinner at Old Ebbitt Grill. Nestled within a historic city building, the restaurant dates all the way back to the 1850s, serving first as a boarding house, saloon, and now as a tavern and restaurant.

The menu is full of contemporary dishes, making this eatery a superb spot to end to a long day of sightseeing. As this DC eatery is pretty popular, you’ll want to reserve a table well in advance of your visit.

Morning: On your second morning in Washington D.C. start by visiting the Eastern Market. The Eastern Market is a hybrid indoor/outdoor market that features loads of fresh flowers, delicious fruits, jewelry and woodworking stands, book stalls, and all the snacks and goodies imaginable.

The Eastern Market is the oldest of its kind in Washington D.C, and one of the only local markets in the city. This is a great place to shop for any gifts or souvenirs you want to bring home. The open air flower market is particularly picturesque and overall the market boasts 150 speciality stalls.

Close by to Eastern Market, you can also see Capitol Hill Books, which is easily the most unique bookshop in Washington D.C. The store was first opened by a retired WWII veteran, who is not a fan of millennials (trying to ban banter and slang from the store for years) and sells used and battered books stacked in wobbly piles to the ceiling. 

After experiencing the market and nearby bookshop, it’s a short walk (and an even shorter bus ride if you prefer) to Capitol Hill. You can even take a free tour inside the building, but you’ll have to book in advance (see details here) . On the tour, you’ll learn all about the history and architecture of The Capitol by visiting the Crypt, the Rotunda and National Statuary Hall.

Afternoon: After a morning of shopping and sightseeing, stop for lunch at the Mitsitam Native Foods cafe, located within the National Museum of the American Indian (your starting point of afternoon museum hopping) , and indulge in authentic traditional Native American dishes.

Afterward, spend the rest of the afternoon hopping around the best museums in the city. Some of the most popular are: the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, Museum of African American Heritage, National Museum of the American Indian, National Portrait Gallery, International Spy Museum, Holocaust Memorial Museum, and National Gallery of Art. 

Thanks to the impressive size of the museums in D.C., you’ll only have time to see a couple and so you should pick out a couple that seem the most interesting to you or alternatively book to go on a guided tour of the museums to gain an even greater insight into their exhibitions.

For example, this combo ticket will take you on a National Portrait Gallery & American Art Museum Guided Tour or this tour will show you around the Smithsonian American Art Museum.

Evening: Spend your second evening in the vibrant Penn Quarter and experience the thrilling Washington D.C. nightlife. The neighborhood that never sleeps is full of bars and restaurants, lounges, clubs, shops, and boutiques.

There is almost always something going on in Penn Station; whether that be a sporting event, live entertainment, or even a show at the iconic Shakespeare Theatre. Another option for your second evening in Washington D.C. is to go on a history tour bar crawl like this one.

Morning: Your final morning in Washington D.C. begins with a relaxing adventure outside the hustle and bustle and venture to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Linked by a pedestrian-only bridge stretching over the Potomac, Theodore Roosevelt Island is one of the more peaceful and natural areas in D.C.

This small and beautiful sanctuary is a great place to relive stretch, take a hike, or go off the grid to escape the excitement of downtown. Highlights of Theodore Roosevelt Island include the chance to get up close with nature and a life-sized statue of Roosevelt himself.

Afternoon: After a serene morning on the island, head back to town for lunch at Le Diplomate. Paying homage to French cuisine, Le Diplomate is a popular stop in the city for food and a beloved favorite of Barack Obama, John Kerry, and Joe Biden.

If you’d prefer to grab lunch closer to the next stop, which will be the neighborhood of Georgetown, then 1310 Kitchen & Bar is a good option too. Once your bellies are full, head over to wander and tour Tudor Palace.

Tudor Palace is one of the only authentic federal-style homes left in the city, and was once home to the granddaughter of George and Martha Washington, with direct links to the country’s first President. Tudor Palace is also free, though donations are appreciated and you should book tickets in advance (check details here).

Next, spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding cobblestoned streets of Georgetown. The neighborhood is full of charm with colorful homes, brownstones, local shops and boutiques, restaurants, and luxurious hotels and architecture. It’s not as touristy as the main street, making it a hidden gem of D.C and perfect for exploring. 

There are several other ways to indulge in a visit to Georgetown, one of them being food. For a greater insight into the best foodie spots in the area, be sure to book a guided tour like this one. For those who prefer to experience a new place through the lens of history, this Georgetown walking tour is for you.

Evening: Finish off your 3-day trip to Washington D.C with an evening of dinner and entertainment on U-Street. U-Street is a huge cultural hub for African Americans within the city.

Eat dinner at ben Chili’s Bowl, and head out to explore the preserved culture, fashion, and artwork in the area. Be sure to stop at the local jazz club, dating back to 1920, and the iconic Lincoln Theatre for a night of live performances. 

Another option for your final night in DC is to indulge in an evening dinner cruise like this one . A 3-course dinner will be served at your private table while you listen to music and cruise along the Potomac River.

Other things to do in Washington D.C if you have 4 days or more

Old Town Alexandria is a fantastic option to spend the day outside of the city. It’s the place to be for boutique shopping, fine dining, and cobbled street meandering. Located on the waterfront, it’s also a fantastic location to relax and take in the views of the Potomac. 

The town itself is probably best known for being home to George Washington’s expansive Mount Vernon Estate. For a greater insight into the town and estate, consider booking a full-day guided tour like this one.

If you are visiting during the spring during late March or early April, be prepared for a burst of pink as the National Cherry Blossom Festival takes place and the city is in full bloom . You should also note that this is a busy time in the city as D.C. is one of the best places to see cherry blossoms in the USA .

Washington Monument Grounds and the banks of the Potomac are lined with more than 3000 flourishing cherry blossoms trees, with the festival tradition dating all the way back to 1912, celebrating the relationship between the United States and Japan. The festival is definitely a good reason to plan your trip specifically for this time of year. 

Just across the Potomac River in Virginia lies the Arlington National Cemetery which is one of the most popular day trips from Washington D.C. Originally owned by Confederate General Robert E. Lee, the land is now a peaceful resting place for fallen soldiers.

There are graves of fallen soldiers dating back to the Revolutionary war, in addition to the infamous Tomb of the Unknown Solider. If you get the chance, stay for the changing of the guards who guard and protect the tomb around the clock. For an even greater insight into this historic cemetery, book a guided tour.

The oldest operating botanical garden lies in the capital city of Washington D.C The gardens are free to enter and wander around the different environments feature exotic plants and flora and fauna. Be sure to check out the Rose garden and First Ladies Water Garden, dedicated to all the first ladies of the country. 

Kayaking along the Potomac is one of the most exciting things to do in the city and a great way to view D.C. from a new perspective. Rock Creek Park has some of the smoothest waters for kayakers and is one of the largest natural reserves near the city. It is recommended for kayakers of all levels. 

The Pentagon is one of Washington D.Cs’s biggest attractions for those interested in politics. Walk through the Hall of Heroes and learn about all 4 branches of the military with expert guides educating you along the way. Guided tours are available on weekdays (only to US citizens) and must be scheduled at least 2 weeks in advance.  Find details here.

Technically not a mansion per se, the Mansion on O’Street is a series of brownstone buildings connected by secret passageways, winding staircases, secret doors, and cluttered mysterious rooms.

There are more than 100 rooms to explore, splitting its purpose as a unique vintage museum and quirky antique shop. It’s one of the more underrated attractions in the city but definitely one of the most memorable. 

The best areas to stay in Washington D.C. will vary based on personal preference, but overall, some locations are definitely more advised. Downtown and Capitol Hill are great for history buffs and first-timers, Dupont Circle is best for culture and museums, Chinatown and Logan Circle are best for nightlife and those on a budget, and families and shoppers will enjoy the neighborhood of Georgetown. 

Thanks to its status as one of the most important cities in the USA, there’s no shortage of places to stay to suit every taste and budget.

Just note that since the cherry blossom season is incredibly popular the best places book up fast and so you should be sure to book your accommodation well in advance to avoid disappointment. Here are some of the best places to stay in D.C. based on web-reviews and location:

Budget: This low cost accommodation has single-sex and mixed-gender dorms with capsule beds and free Wi-Fi. Private rooms are available for an extra fee. Check prices and availability here.

Mid-range: If you’re looking for a no frills accommodation in a good location, then this may be the place for you. Amenities include an indoor pool, free Wi-Fi, and a restaurant on site. Check prices and availability here.

Luxury: Those in search of an extra luxurious accommodation can check out this five star offering. Highlights include marble bathrooms, flatscreen TVs, and an indoor pool. Check prices and availability here.

No matter your interests, Washington D.C is a playground for history buffs, politician junkies, adventure seekers, and shopping lovers. While there are entirely too many things to see in just 3 days, this itinerary is a great start.

We hope you have enjoyed this guide on how to spend 3 days in Washington D.C and that it has inspired you to take a trip to the nation’s capital for yourselves! For more inspiration, check out our suggestions for the most romantic getaways in the USA .

Enjoyed reading about how to spend 3 days in Washington D.C.? Pin this article now, read it again later:

About the author: Ali Sullivan is an experienced world traveler, freelance writer, small business owner, and CEO of Alis Happy Desk. She works online within the travel niche by running her own business, planning travel itineraries, writing blogs and guides, and exploring the world in her off-time.

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Solo Traveler

Solo travel tips, destinations, stories... the source for those who travel alone.

Solo Travel Destination: Washington, DC

January 7, 2016 by Tracey Nesbitt

I am pleased to present a new  Solo Travel  Destination Post on Washington, DC. These posts are generally contributed by members of the  Solo Travel Society  on Facebook, but occasionally Janice and I write about destinations we have recently visited. Do you have a solo  travel  destination that you would like to recommend?  Submit your description here , along with a few photos, and share it with fellow travelers!

Solo travel rating:   1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult. Please see chart below)

Languages spoken: English

Reasons to Visit Washington, DC

I had been to DC before, but this trip was different. Where previous trips had been full of more typically touristy pursuits–a moonlight tour of the monuments (still among my favorite city tours of all time), a bus tour of the city–this trip involved experiencing things more like a local.

Although I didn't actually plan it this way, I spent two days completely indulging in my favorite things: food, drink, and art. And although the state of the Canadian dollar was absolutely working against me, I managed to do this trip fairly inexpensively.  First, I stayed outside of the downtown area. The Springhill Suites Hotel in Alexandria is reasonably priced, has free parking, and is close to the Metro (the hotel provides a complimentary shuttle to the station). The rooms were perfect for me, as they have separate spaces for sleeping, relaxing on a sectional sofa, or working at a well-designed desk, as well as strong, free Wi-Fi. Free breakfast was included in the price of the room.

I wandered through the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden. In the center, there is a large skating rink. You can rent skates here and get some exercise or show off your best moves. There seemed to be a mixture of both tourists and locals taking advantage of the crisp air and sunshine the day that I visited. Twelve dollars gets you two hours admission, a locker to keep your belongings safe, and an additional $6 will get you a pair of skates to use. I was more interested in the art on this day but either way, you can warm up afterwards with a cappuccino at the Pavilion Cafe.

I experienced some amazing–and amazingly diverse–art exhibits in Washington. Down an alley off Barracks Row in the Eastern Market neighborhood was The Fridge, a combination of classroom, event venue, performance space, and art gallery focusing largely on street art. On this day, I took in “Sew Rad,” an exhibit by local artist, DECOY, made up of a series of quilts that had meaning well beyond their traditional purpose. At the Renwick Gallery , part of the Smithsonian American Art Museum, my timing could not have been better. Re-opening after two years of renovation, the gallery was hosting a show called “Wonder.” Would it be cheesy to say that it was wonderful? I can't help it – it was! Room after room showcased a different installation on that theme, along with a quote about the character of wonder. It reminded me of Janice's advice to  Travel with the Wit of an Adult and the Wonder of a Child , and to allow yourself to experience things with that sense of wonder you had as a child. And I did exactly that.

Then, for something completely different, I went to see IMPLICIT BIAS: Seeing the Other: Seeing Our Self at the Joan Hisaoka Healing Arts Gallery at Smith Center. I spent about two hours in this one room, first absorbing the messages in the art, then sitting down at a computer to complete a test that is designed to uncover our unconscious biases. It was incredibly challenging, and provided (is still providing, in fact) much food for thought.

And speaking of food, there is no shortage of great places to eat in Washington. I can recommend lunch at Old Engine 12, a restaurant housed in an 1897 firehouse. Go ahead and order the smoked cheddar mac ‘n cheese, just do what I did: order a side of the grilled brussels sprouts. The virtuosity of the green vegetable negates the effect of the cheesy pasta. For a nice break between art exhibits, stop into Founding Farmers , a restaurant owned by the members of the North Dakota Farmers Union, and supplied by local family farms. It was named by Open Table, the restaurant reservation service, as one of the top restaurants in the country for solo diners, based on the number of people who book tables for one. I can't honestly say that I was treated any differently there than anywhere else, but I can tell you that the farm bread with brie, apples, honey, and onion jam is absolutely delicious.

As for drinks, I tried out two different spots: Jack Rose Dining Saloon and Cork Wine Bar . Jack Rose is famous for having the largest selection of whisky in the western hemisphere. Like a library or bookstore, they have a sliding ladder that staff climb up and down to retrieve bottles. You don't have to know anything about spirits to enjoy this place–the staff will help you select something according to your taste, and tell you everything you ever wanted to know. It's an education! I purposely arrived early for my reservation at Cork in order to have time to check out their store down the street, which boasts a wide array of wines, cheeses, meats, and condiments. If not for having to get through customs on the way home, some of those gorgeous items would have come with me. As a solo diner (er, drinker) Cork Wine Bar was great. My server was fun and attentive, made great suggestions, and we had an interesting chat about, of course, wine.

Washingtonians are a lucky bunch. Although my food and drink budget was a bit steep because of the exchange rate, I didn't pay a cent for anything else that I did in DC, other than my Uber rides. All of the 19 incredible museums and galleries of the Smithsonian Institution are free! It also doesn't hurt that you often feel like you're on the set of a political drama, as convoys of vehicles with security often drive by, or you notice big men standing outside the coffee shop wearing earpieces and scanning the crowd. I'm already looking forward to another solo weekend of soaking up art and wine in Washington, DC.

Solo Travel  Destination Rating System

Safety   – 2  (1 very safe, 2 safe in most areas, 3 be cautious at all times.)

Language   – 1  (1 English is first language, 2 English speakers easy to find, 3 English speakers rare)

Navigation – 1  (1 easy to navigate by transit or car, 2 poor transit, car necessary, 3 not easy to get around)

Culture – 1  (1 Similar to North America or Western Europe, 2 Different from above but relaxed and easy, 3 Challenging)

Average Rating – 1  (1 is easiest, 3 is most difficult)

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Editor Tracey: tracey @ solotravelerworld.com

Sales Simon: simon @ solotravelerworld.com

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Musings and Adventures

What to see, eat, do on a cultured Washington D.C. solo travel

* Click on links for pictures, Reels, and more information on Washington D.C. *

Washington D.C. Solo Travel

Article Contents

Washington D.C. is more than just men in suits and monuments; it is one of a few Northeast cities closest to NYC in walkability, transit, gastronomy, culture, and interesting activities.

Per the U.S. Travel Association, Americans are known to leave vacation days on the table resulting in 768 million unused vacation days and $65.5 billion in lost benefits. Thus, I’m grateful to travel fairly well with a 9-5 as a Millennial content creator.

Will This Be Your Year Of Solo Travel? 10 Solo Travel Tips for Novices

#Washington D.C. Solo Travel: Where to Stay

Since I love the finer things of life, I was booked into the hotels below:

1731 New Hampshire Ave NW, Washington, DC 20009

• Closest metro: Dupont Circle (Red)

This is a boutique hotel near Dupont Circle with comfortable rooms in neutral colours, rainfall showers, kitchenette (depending on the suite), bath robes, and a popular restaurant.

900 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004

• Closest metro: Gallery Place (Red, Green)

I absolutely love anything historic so when I discovered that this used to be Riggs National Bank, I was excited. Built in 1891, it was known as the “Bank of Presidents” as it handled the personal finances of U.S. Presidents from Lincoln to Nixon. Its banking interior is maintained and check-in is a teller counter, complete with original counters and fittings.

Each room is created to resemble a safety deposit box and mini fridges have a safety deposit box exterior, complete with the lock! The truly beautiful sight here was Cafe Riggs , the hotel’s modern restaurant with high ceilings, a long bar, mirrors, eye-catching floral decor, and comfy seating.

There are numerous accommodation options in Washington D.C. so browse below for affordable, boutique, and historic hotels >>>

Hotels in Washington D.C.

#What to Do

You’ve settled into your hotel and are eager to explore what the city has to offer. For me, arts, culture, historic homes, unique activities, and food, are destination draws, and Washington D.C. has these in abundance for avid solo travelers.

Arts & Culture

Begin with the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture aka The Black Smithsonian for extensive and educational floors of African-American history. From the bottom – The Middle Passage from West Africa to the Americas and Caribbean – proceed upstairs as the culture unfolds through Emancipation, Reconstruction, Jim Crow…through Civil Rights till present day. There are interesting exhibits on African-American musical genres like Jazz, Rock n Roll, Funk; the complex politics of Black hair, Black food, and languages across the diaspora.

A must-see exhibit on Concourse Level C is Afrofuturism: A History of Black Futures . It covers futuristic worlds in fashion, film, TV, comics, art, and science, where Black people exist and thrive in all dimensions. It is bittersweet to see Chadwick Boseman’s Black Panther costume, Regina King’s Sister Knight Watchmen robe, and other costumes on display. Exhibit runs till August 18, 2024 .

>> Afrofuturism Exhibit REEL <<<

Honorary mention goes to the ah-ma-zing street art and murals all over Washington D.C., but you’ll find them aplenty in NoMa. From the second you step outside the NoMa metro and walk towards Union Market, you’ll have a field day snapping away.

Free Smithsonian Museums

• Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History – animal skeleton exhibits in Bone Hall, Butterfly Pavilion, and Hall of Fossils
• Smithsonian National Museum of American History – unique exhibits like Menstrual History Collection
• National Gallery of Art – exhibitions like Dante’s Going Through Hell

>>> Alternative Washington D.C. Attractions Reel <<<

More Museums, Exhibits & Galleries

Next is Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden , one of my favorite contemporary D.C. museums. New exhibits will begin in Spring 2024 and run until 2025, and they include Revolutions: Art from the Hirshhorn Collection 1860-1960 , among others.

Also at Hirshhorn are rooms of thought-provoking multimedia and interactive art – on expansive textiles, depicting social and environmental issues, art specifically from women artists that have never been displayed in galleries…and so much more. It is truly a spectacular museum.

Past exhibitions include an absolute crowd-pleaser, Yayoi Kusama exhibit . This might return in upcoming exhibits at Hirshhorn or other museums so keep an ear out for it.

 >>> Kusama Exhibits in Washington D.C. <<<

A new favorite of mine is Rubell Museum in Navy Yard with colorful contemporary portraits mostly from Black artists. Enter the gallery and be arrested by a Kehinde Wiley painting – he painted Prez Obama & FLObama; wander downstairs for taxidermy creatures in giant urns, portraits of materialism, societal issues, Harriet Tubman, and more.

Rubell Museum art

Lastly, Planet Word is an immersive museum for language and word lovers with fun interactive games like Lexicon Lane for word sleuthing, puzzle rooms for large groups, and international word games. RSVP a time slot to avoid the wait list.

Alternative Washington D.C. Sights That Are Not The Capitol

Historic Home

Hillwood estate, museum, and garden.

4155 Linnean Ave., NW, Washington D,C, 20008

This is by far the most opulent historic home I’ve been to because it is absolutely magnificent! Hillwood is the home of heiress Marjorie Merriweather Post of Post Cereals (which later became General Foods) and she was a prolific Russian and French artifact collector.

The main house has chandeliers, 18th & 19th century Russian art, Faberge eggs, jewellery, and porcelain. The rooms are trapped in time with decor of the 1950s and the dining table is permanently set with silverware and china. Upstairs is the Russian Sacred Arts Gallery with icons, chalices, and robes, as well as more rooms, mirrors, and decor.

The 25 acres of gardens boast a waterfall, French parterre, rose garden, greenhouse, and numerous plants, trees, and space. During cherry blossom season, parts of the estate bloom with pink petals. Wander around, read the history of the collection, and take as many photos as you want because this place is a fitting end to a full day of adventure.

#Where to Eat

Washington D.C. is a foodie’s dream so take your pick of haute cuisine to food truck casual and everything in between. Below are restaurants I dined at:

This is a Latin American marketplace in NoMa with dining options like a Venezuelan bakery, Colombian artisanal donuts, and a Salvadorian pupuseria. There are high quality leather and artist shops with hand-made goods and I dined at Destino , a modern Mexican restaurant, with items like chile chocolate and smoked ice cream.

Union Market

Also in NoMa, this food hall has a plethora of options so Dine the Market for these: Aboveground , an English pastry shop with pot pies, sausage rolls, and pasties; District Doughnuts for Vanilla bean and Brown Butter; Bun’d up for steamed buns and rice bowls, The District Fishwife for seafood snacks, DC Dosa for South-Indian cuisine and Salt & Sundry for beautiful hand made home goods.

Bistro Du Jour

Dubbed “a touch of Paris on the Potomac”, it is on the redeveloped District Wharf waterfront. With menu items like Croque Madame , Moules et frites , and gratin , save yourself the Paris fare and turn up in your beret and striped jumper.

Pendry Moonraker

This modern rooftop at the Pendry in District Wharf is absolutely stunning. The ambience is a sophisticated after-work vibe but it is welcoming from opening time. It’s probably best to visit during 9-5 hours to avoid the after work crowd and enjoy cocktails and sushi. The Potomac views in cherry blossom season are lovely.

It is a hotel restaurant in a former bank with Lincoln and other presidents as past clients. Cafe Riggs has a high vaulted ceiling, comfy dining areas, and a long bar with high chairs. Inspired by European brasseries, dinner items include halibut, duck, prawn risotto, a raw bar, and more.

>>> CLICK: Delish dishes I dined on in Washington D.C . <<<

#Neighborhoods to Explore

U street corridor.

Washington D.C. has everything from vibrant to subdued neighborhoods for all interest types. For a Black/African-American enclave, head to the historic U Street corridor for casual and upscale bars & restaurants, cute storefront shops with handmade home goods, murals, cocktail lounges and so much more.

The community did business and loaned money within themselves to establish social clubs, theaters, homes, restaurants, and schools. There were architects, hoteliers, bankers, and other famous professionals who visited the area, like Louis Armstrong.

Georgetown is a popular D.C. neighborhood with colorful buildings, cobblestones, and cute storefronts near the waterfront. It is home to some of the city’s luxurious hotels, restaurants, and Cady’s Alley – its shopping and design district – is a prime picturesque area. Get a sugar high at District Doughnuts or lunch at the European style bistro, Kafe Leopold .

There are no metro stops in Georgetown so ride shares, biking, and water taxis are your main options if you’re keen to explore.

NoMa – north of Massachusetts Ave NE – is a developing Washington D.C. neighborhood with luxury apartments, boutique hotels, and Union Market with its plethora of diverse restaurants and street murals. I always enjoy visiting NoMa for its chill ambience and casual dining options.

A new favorite is District Wharf “where D.C. meets water.” It has waterfront restaurants – Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen – luxury hotels like Pendry DC, shops, wine bars, scenic views, Anthem theatre, outdoor space for seasonal events and a fire pit in cooler weather. Two metro lines, a free Southwest Neighborhood Shuttle, and numerous buses go to The Wharf so it is very accessible with public transit.

Capitol Hill

The last D.C. neighborhood on my solo travel itinerary is Capitol Hill where I swing by for brunch just before a massive downpour. It is a quiet residential area accessible on the Eastern Market metro stop.

I stumble upon the historic Eastern Market farmer’s market celebrating its 150th anniversary in 2023. I see home made pies, pasta, organic produce, pastries, meat and seafood stalls. Outside are tables with tagine, ceramics, clothing, more pies, and everything you know farmer’s markets to sell. There are independent shops on main street and The Duck & The Peach restaurant for dining.

****************************************************

This Washington D.C. solo travel was sponsored by Destination D.C. For extensive travel information on all D.C. has to offer, check out the official Washington D.C. site .

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A kid-friendly trip to Washington, D.C.

Lots of successes, a few mistakes in our jam-packed days in the nation’s capital.

Were we losing our minds? Some of our family and friends thought so. We were taking three young kids, ages 8, 6, and 3 to Washington, D.C., for vacation. They’re too young, they tsked. The age range is too broad, they suggested. So. Much. Work, they concurred. A better option, they suggested, only half-joking, might be an all-inclusive Caribbean resort with a swimming pool and a full-day children’s program.

Oh, pshaw!, we thought. We love D.C. and we were excited to take the kids to the nation’s capital. In fact, Washington, D.C., is one of the top family vacation destinations in the country. It’s filled with top-notch, hands-on museums — including the 17 free Smithsonian museums — expansive parks and pocket green spaces, grand-scale monuments and museums, and vibrant neighborhoods. There are giant dinosaurs, fossils and bones, meteorites and rare gems, big planes, secret spy gadgets, mega Lego buildings, live animals, creepy insects, and thousands of beautiful butterflies — to name a few highlights.

We planned to spend two nights and two days in D.C., and to see as much as we could. Our tentative itinerary was jam-packed. That was our first mistake.

Full speed ahead

The early-morning direct flight from Boston to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport was a quick, easy jaunt. We hired an XL ride share, battled with the portable booster seats we’d brought, and arrived at the Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill hotel before lunchtime. The recently opened hotel has spacious rooms (standard rooms starting under $200 a night, depending on the time of year), with contemporary furnishings. We stayed in a suite with a separate seating area and an adjoining room. The two rooms gave us plenty of space. We especially liked the hotel’s location, which was an easy walk to the US Capitol and the National Mall, a 2-mile or so green park lined with Smithsonian Institution museums.

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First on our agenda was a visit to the International Spy Museum in the Southwest Waterfront neighborhood along the Potomac River. Confession: This was the adults’ choice; we’d never been to the museum and wanted to check it out. Currently showing: “Bond in Motion,” a collection of 17 original James Bond vehicles. We were psyched to see it; the kids weren’t much interested.

There are a lot of displays here that go right over young kids’ heads, but the museum turned out to be the 8-year-old’s favorite spot. We picked up our secret identities and undercover mission cards upon arrival and looked for the spy mission hands-on activities throughout the museum, including cracking secret codes, practicing observation skills, creating gadgets, and testing our strength, hanging from a hand bar. The youngest played along, pushing this and peering through that, and clamoring through The Duct Crawl, several times. But we concluded that this museum is best for older children, say 8 or 9 years and older.

“Consider your kids’ ages,” Elliott L. Ferguson II, president and CEO of Destination DC , the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, advises. “Washington, D.C., boasts attractions for every age group. I recommend making sure you visit the ones tailored to spark the most interest and creativity.”

Afternoon meltdown

After the International Spy Museum, our plan was to visit the Jefferson Memorial. But it had already been a long travel day for the kids. We enjoyed Ben & Jerry’s ice cream cones at the nearby Wharf, a new, lively waterfront development, followed by a little downtime at the hotel.

Later, in the early evening, we jumped on the Big Bus Night Tour , a spur-of-the-moment decision that turned out to be the right one. Washington, D.C., is especially beguiling at night when the monuments are lit up. The hop-on, hop-off tour visits many of the major memorials, including the White House and the Lincoln and Jefferson memorials. The kids could relax on the bus (they skipped the headphones for the prerecorded commentary) and still took in the iconic sights.

“There’s something special about seeing the monuments and memorials lit after dark,” Ferguson agrees. “Don’t miss seeing them aglow after dinner.”

Another note about the Big Bus hop-on, hop-off tours: well worth it! The daytime Red Loop tour makes 17 stops at major Smithsonian Museums and famous monuments and memorials. We used it for sightseeing, but also for transportation, hopping on when little legs (and weary adults) needed a rest. (Tip: Also bring a stroller; you’ll need it. And wear comfortable shoes; you’ll be walking a lot.) “You won’t need a car in Washington, D.C. In fact, one of the best ways to experience the city is on foot,” Ferguson says. And taking the bus or subway and hiring rideshares all are better options than driving.

Rise and shine

Let’s go kids; we have a full day of fun activities planned! On our second day, we walked to the US Capitol and along the National Mall. The kids enjoyed running and playing tag (lesson: leave time for unstructured play), as we made our way to the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History . This massive museum is one of the largest of its kind in the world, filled with extraordinary exhibits and collections, with some 148 million specimens and artifacts. The kids were instantly drawn to the Hall of Mammals, with full-size giraffes, hippos, lions, cheetahs, and many, many more. The David H. Koch Hall of Fossils , with some 700 fossil specimens, was another kid (and grown-up) favorite, including a face-to-face greeting with a life-size skeleton of the Nation’s T. Rex and triceratops. In Sant Ocean Hall we walked under a model of a 45-foot-long North Atlantic Right Whale, and gazed into aquariums filled with sea creatures and coral. The hall features more than 600 specimens. We posed for photos looking through the jaws of a megalodon, a giant shark that went extinct some 3.6 million years ago.

The 6-year-old, who had just received a rock tumbler for his birthday, was excited about the Geo Gallery and got everyone else involved, looking at the massive, shiny gemstones, and the collection of meteorites. In all, the museum has some 350,000 mineral specimens and 10,000 gemstones, one of the largest of its kind in the world, including the world-famous Hope Diamond.

We thought we’d buzz through the O. Orkin Insect Zoo , the oldest continuously operating insect zoo in the US. But the kids were mesmerized by the collection of creepy crawlies. They nudged to the front of a live presentation on a bug we didn’t recognize “Who wants to touch it?,” the presenter asked, and a group of little hands flew up. Scrambling through a 14-foot-tall model of an African termite mound was another favorite.

The museum was a hit. Next on the agenda was a visit to the National Children’s Museum of Washington, D.C. However, we’d already missed our timed entry slot. Did we have time for another museum? A visit to the National Zoo? Not really.

“A common misconception is about the time you’ll spend exploring museums,” says Ferguson. “We often hear that families had no idea how cool it would be to see the dinosaurs, or spaceships, or presidential artifacts.”

We’d overloaded our itinerary, and we suspected the kids were now on sensory overload. We grabbed snacks and drinks from a sidewalk vendor and walked and skipped our way to the Washington Monument, roaming through some of the Smithsonian Gardens along the way.

So many choices

What to do on our final morning before our flights back to Boston? The choices were overwhelming. We decided on a visit to the lesser known National Building Museum in Washington, D.C. , which had just opened its “Building Stories” exhibition. The four-room, immersive exhibition examines the world of architecture, engineering, construction, and design found in children’s books, including 150 books representing 28 countries. We found it fascinating for both kids and adults. The kids particularly enjoyed receiving a sketchbook and souvenir pencil that served as a guide through the exhibition, with places for stamps to collect along the way. There are cozy reading nooks, a small theater in the round, illustrating favorite books like “The Snowy Day,” a wall of alphabet books, and an entire area designed and built by David Macaulay, illustrating his “Rome Antics,” a 1997 picture book depicting buildings of Rome as seen by a homing pigeon. The final room features large, soft building blocks for kids to build their own structures. The second floor “Lego Room” (as the kids called it) featured a collection of iconic world landmarks and places built out of Legos, and a play area where kids could build their own Lego constructions.

We ended in a mad dash to the airport, where we waited for our delayed flight home. For more information, visit www.washington.org . Note that some Smithsonian Museums require timed entry reservations.

Diane Bair and Pamela Wright can be reached at [email protected]