virtual tour washington dc

Discover DC in 360°

Take a virtual tour of Washington, DC with 360-degree video

Begin Your Journey Through Washington, DC

Transport yourself to Washington, DC on dozens of immersive, first-person adventures. Experience what it’s like to step foot inside the majestic Lincoln Memorial, walk through bustling Union Market or visit a free Smithsonian Institution museum. So what are you waiting for? Hop from neighborhood hot spots to awe-inspiring museums to world-famous landmarks, and then start planning your next trip to the nation’s capital.

NOTE: 360-degree videos are best viewed through your phone's YouTube app and can also be viewed from the  YouTube playlist on the @washingtondc channel .

Explore the Monuments & Memorials

Lincoln memorial.

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: the 19-foot-tall statue of...

Jefferson Memorial

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: Rudolph Evans’ bronze stat...

National World War II Memorial

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The beautiful central foun...

Washington Monument

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The spot around one-third ...

Korean War Veterans Memorial

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The 19 stainless steel sta...

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The Stone of Hope, a 30-fo...

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The bronze sculptures of P...

DC World War I Memorial

3 Things to Look For: (1) Looking upward: The memorial’s impressive ...

Outdoors on The National Mall

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The Washington Monument, t...

Discover the Neighborhoods

Union market in noma.

3 Things to Look For: (1) Korean-style tacos (yes, you read that cor...

Yards Park on the Capitol Riverfront

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The iconic 200-foot-long Y...

18th Street in Adams Morgan

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: 18th Street NW, which serv...

Washington Harbour in Georgetown

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The popular waterfront pat...

Friendship Archway in Chinatown

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The colorful Friendship Ar...

Howard Theatre in Shaw

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The historic Howard Theatr...

Thomas Circle in Downtown

3 Things to Look For: (1) To the right: The bronze statue of Union A...

Bask in the Best Views

Georgetown waterfront.

3 Things to Look For: (1) To the left: the iconic John F. Kennedy Ce...

U.S. Capitol Building

3 Things to Look For: (1) Looking upward: The prestigious cast-iron ...

Hotel Zena Rooftop

3 Things to Look For: (1) Directly behind: The wood-paneled, trendy ...

Lincoln Memorial & Reflecting Pool

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: Visitors walking up the st...

Jefferson Memorial & Tidal Basin

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The granite and marble ste...

Washington Monument & National Museum of African American History and Culture

3 Things to Look For: (1) Looking upward: The 555-foot tall Washingt...

Go Beyond the Beaten Path

Washington national cathedral.

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The 215 stained glass wind...

Rose Garden at the U.S. Botanic Garden

3 Things to Look For: (1) All around: The Mid-Atlantic inspired thre...

U.S. National Arboretum

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The National Capitol Colum...

Yards Park from the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail

3 Things to Look For: (1) To the left: The dramatic curved rings ado...

Museums That Come Alive

Smithsonian castle.

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The Smithsonian Institutio...

Boeing Milestones of Flight Hall at the National Air & Space Museum

3 Things to Look For: (1) To the left: The Spirit of St. Louis, the ...

Rotunda at the National Museum of Natural History

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: Henry the 12-ton, 14-foot-...

Sant Ocean Hall at the National Museum of Natural History

3 Things to Look For: (1) Looking upward: Phoenix the 45-foot-long N...

Kenneth E. Behring Mammal Hall at the National Museum of Natural History

3 Things to Look For: (1) To the left: President Teddy Roosevelt’s w...

U.S. Botanic Garden

3 Things to Look For: (1) Straight ahead: The U.S. Capitol Dome; (2)...

National Capitol Columns at the U.S. National Arboretum

3 Things to Look For: (1) All around: The National Capitol Columns, ...

National Museum of Natural History Virtual Tours

Access the tours.

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History virtual tours allow visitors to take self-guided, room-by-room tours of select exhibits and areas within the museum from their desktop or mobile device. Visitors can also access select collections and research areas at our satellite support and research stations as well as past exhibits no longer on display.

Virtual Tour Tips

• To navigate between adjoining rooms in the tours, click on the blue arrow links on the floor or use the navigation map in the upper right of the presentation screen.
• Look for the camera icon which gives you a close-up view of a particular object or exhibit panel.
• Try zooming in as some of the images are stitched together from individual pictures in order to create very high resolution gigapixel images.

Please note: This tour and these presentations have been tested and should work on all common devices, browsers, and operating systems (using a desktop computer with Windows, Mac, Linux or a mobile device such as an iPhone, iPad, or Android). Functionality and appearance may vary as it will adjust automatically to accommodate the most visitors. While the virtual tour has no advertising, ad blocking software or browser settings that block JavaScript and/or XML may interfere with the functionality of the virtual tour. Please let us know what you think of the tour and how the experience can be improved. Send your feedback to the NMNH Web Team .

Site Credit: Imagery and coding by Loren Ybarrondo

Equipment Used: Professional Nikon digital single-lens reflex (DSLR) camera bodies and lenses. The photography is typically done using rectilinear lenses with minimized distortion and shooting equirectangular panoramas at 22K pixels on the long side.

Software Used: No authoring software is used. The tours are hand-coded in HTML5 and JavaScript using the krpano graphics library.

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Washington DC Virtual Tour: Online Museums & Virtual Field Trip

150+ Ways to Explore the U.S. Capitol from Home with Virtual Tours, Online Museums and Experiences

Today there are more ways than ever to explore the world from home.  Luckily, virtual travel to Washington DC is no exception: the museums, galleries and institutions of my city have been hard at work for years to make their collections and experiences available online. 

In fact, the volume of information and resources available for a Washington DC virtual tour is seriously impressive!  I’ve discovered more than 150 ways for you to experience the U.S. capital from home.  

For travelers, I hope this Washington DC virtual tour guide fuels your wanderlust for your next DC trip.  And for locals, this is a great resource for rainy days and staycations.  This list can also be used by teachers who are preparing for a DC class trip or as a virtual Washington DC field trip.

This article contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a purchase, I might earn a commission, at no additional cost to you. Thanks for your support in this way! Learn more in my Disclosure Policy .

Google Arts and Culture Project and Virtual Reality Tours

Many of the sites in my list below participate in the Google Arts and Culture project , which is content from over 2,000 organizations that have partnered with Google to bring their collections and galleries online.  You can view virtual tours of many of the museums, galleries and sites, and also explore details of their collections as well as cultural and historical contexts through their online “exhibits.”

For some online experiences, a virtual reality viewer can be used to immerse yourself in the tour. The simplest virtual reality headsets use a smartphone for this, with an inexpensive viewer like Google Cardboard which you can order from Amazon .  You can use it with the Google Arts & Culture app (downloadable from the Apple Store or Google Play ) or other websites with virtual reality media.

Click to skip ahead to different sections in this guide:

Museums   |   Art Galleries   |   Kennedy Center   |   Zoo & Gardens   |  National Mall & Fireworks |  Historic Sites   |  Universities   |  American Presidents

Washington DC Virtual Museum Tours and Online Collections

First on our virtual tour: Washington DC is home to more than 70 world-class museums, many of which are Smithsonian Institutions.  I’ve compiled the best online collections, virtual reality experiences, videos, podcasts and more for a comprehensive virtual tour of Washington DC museums.

Smithsonian Museum “Open Access”

This year, the Smithsonian Institution released millions of images into the public domain.  With Open Access to the Smithsonian Museums online, you can download, share, and reuse millions of the Smithsonian’s images.  This includes images and data from across the Smithsonian’s 19 museums, nine research centers, libraries, archives, and the National Zoo.

• View the Smithsonian’s main collections online as well
• Did you know that the Smithsonian Institution was established because a British scientist left his estate to the United States for that express purpose? Learn about the history of the Smithsonian here .

National Museum of Natural History

This Smithsonian Museum has collections that contain over 145 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, human remains, and human cultural artifacts, the largest natural history collection in the world.  No Washington DC virtual tour is complete without the Museum of Natural History: it’s the most-visited natural history museum in the world, and the 11th most-visited museum overall!

• View self-guided, room by room virtual tours of exhibits
• Start in the iconic Rotonda and take a virtual tour of the Museum of Natural History
• View their online Google Arts & Culture virtual museum collection 
• Discover their fascinating Human Origins exhibit online
• Check out their fun and informative video series “The Dr. is In”
• Explore their Ocean Portal
• Examine early American history through the forensic anthropology exhibit Written in Bone and a 3-D tour of an excavation site in Jamestown

National Air and Space Museum 

This Smithsonian Museum has two locations: on the National Mall in Washington DC and the Udvar-Hazy Center annex near Dulles Airport.  Both exhibit aircraft, spacecraft, missiles, rockets, and other flight-related artifacts. It’s also a center for research into the history and science of aviation and spaceflight.  

• Check out their online Google Arts & Culture virtual museum collection including museum views (which is the next best thing to being there!)
• View their current exhibitions
• Don’t miss their Apollo 11 exhibit , Outside the Spacecraft , and virtual model of the Neil Armstrong Spacesuit (use the icons on the left to view an overlay with features and information)
• View past webcasts including the Women of Apollo
• Listen to their podcasts including an (amusing and informative!) podcast on how women’s underwear design made space suits possible :

Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture (NMAAHC)

The newest addition to the Smithsonians, the African American History and Culture Museum explores the richness and diversity of the African American experience and how it helped shape the nation.

• NMAAHC has excellent online resources for talking about race including targeted resources for educators , parents and caregivers and others committed to equality
• View the museum’s online open access collection
• Discover their online Google Arts & Culture virtual museum collection
• Learn through the stories of NMAAHC staff as they tell what collections they find most powerful
• Explore the museum’s Learning Lab
• Learn about the museum’s vision, planning and design  

National Museum of the American Indian

The National Museum of the American Indian cares for one of the world’s most expansive collections of Native objects, photographs, and media, covering the entire Western Hemisphere from the Arctic Circle to Tierra del Fuego. 

• Explore the National Museum of the American Indian online  
• Check out their online Google Arts & Culture collection
• Don’t miss their art and history collections online, grouped by region of the Americas
• Learn about the engineering feats of the Inka Empire with a fascinating online exhibit
• View the exhibit of Patriot Nations: Native Americans in the Armed Forces
• This museum’s cafeteria, the Mitsitam Cafe, is renowned for its menu, which features Native-inspired cuisines from five regions of the Western Hemisphere. You can actually order the chef’s cookbook and prepare the recipes at home!  Or try this wild rice salad recipe from Epicurious which is one of my favorites.  (“Mitsitam” means “Let’s Eat!” in the Native language of the Delaware and Piscataway peoples.)

Smithsonian Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History: Kenneth E. Behring Center collects, preserves, and displays the heritage of the United States in the areas of social, political, cultural, scientific, and military history.

• Explore the museum resources online , including a multimedia site dedicated to its Star-Spangled Banner exhibit (I make everyone who visits me in DC go to this exhibit!)
• Discover the museum’s multimedia content
• Explore their Stories From the Museum blog including the first female military doctor Mary Walker , conservation efforts for the ruby slippers from the Wizard of Oz , and the American flag that flew on the craft that guided vessels to Utah Beach on D-Day

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) is the United States’ official memorial to the Holocaust. The USHMM provides for the documentation, study, and interpretation of Holocaust history. It is dedicated to helping leaders and citizens of the world confront hatred, prevent genocide, promote human dignity, and strengthen democracy.

• Browse the Holocaust Memorial Museum’s online collection
• View their online Google Arts & Culture virtual museum collection  

National Museum of Women in the Arts

The National Museum of Women in the Arts is the only museum in the world solely dedicated to celebrating the diverse artistic achievements of women.

• Explore their online museum collection of works by women artists including virtual exhibits for Graciela Iturbide’s Mexico and Delita Martin: Calling Down the Spirits
• Browse their online Google Arts & Culture collection

National Geographic Museum

The National Geographic Society (NGS) is one of the largest nonprofit scientific and educational organizations in the world.  Its museum in Washington DC features changing exhibitions featuring the work of National Geographic explorers, photographers, and scientists. 

• Explore their current exhibit Becoming Jane: The Evolution of Dr. Jane Goodall

Dumbarton Oaks

Dumbarton Oaks is a historic estate in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington DC. The Dumbarton Oaks Research Library and Collection was founded here by Robert Woods Bliss and his wife Mildred Barnes Bliss, who gave the property to Harvard University in 1940.  It also has extensive gardens, which are one of my favorite places in the city.

• View their online Google Arts & Culture collection
• Explore virtual tours of the Dumbarton Oaks Garden

National Building Museum

The National Building Museum is a museum of architecture, design, engineering, construction, and urban planning in Washington DC.

• Explore with a National Building Museum virtual tour
• View their new online exhibit Documenting Crossroads: The Coronavirus in Poor Minority Communities

National Women’s History Museum

The National Women’s History Museum (NWHM), is a proposed museum and an American history organization that researches, collects and exhibits the contributions of women to the social, cultural, economic and political life of our nation in a context of world history.  The museum is currently online, with plans to establish a physical museum on the National Mall.

• Explore the National Women’s History Museum collection online

Postal Museum 

The Smithsonian’s National Postal Museum is devoted to presenting the colorful and engaging history of the nation’s mail service and showcasing one of the largest and most comprehensive collections of stamps and philatelic material in the world.

• Explore with a virtual museu m tour

Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens 

Hillwood is a decorative arts museum in Northwest Washington DC. The former residence of businesswoman, socialite, philanthropist and collector Marjorie Merriweather Post (of the Post cereal empire), Hillwood is known for its large decorative arts collection including Fabergé eggs, 18th and 19th century French art, and one of the country’s finest orchid collections. 

• Explore the Hillwood Museum collection from home , including virtual museum collection and video library
• See what’s in bloom in the Hillwood Gardens

Jump back up to the table of contents menu

Washington DC Art Galleries: Online Collections & Virtual Experiences

No virtual tour of Washington DC would be complete without exploring the city’s art galleries. Check out the best online museum collections and experiences from DC’s world-class galleries.

Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden

The Hirshhorn Museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution, and was endowed in the 1960’s with the permanent collection of Joseph H. Hirshhorn.  It currently focuses its collection-building and exhibition-planning mainly on the post–World War II period, with particular emphasis on art made during the last 50 years.

• Experience the Hirshhorn from home with the #HirshhornInsideOut including artist and curator-led insights and art activities for all ages
• Explore virtual tours of the the Hirshhorn’s Sculpture Gardens  
• Listen to their Artist Talks lecture series on Soundcloud
• Check out their online events on Facebook

National Portrait Gallery

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Portrait Gallery’s collections focus on images of famous Americans. 

• Explore their Google Arts & Culture collection online including the exhibit Votes for Women: A Portrait of Persistence
• Don’t miss their Presidential Portrait Collection and Portraits of African Americans
• Listen to the National Portrait Gallery podcast PORTRAITS: Real People, Real Stories
• No visit here is complete without a moment in the Kogod Courtyard (use the navigation menu to look around!)

National Gallery of Art (NGA)

The National Gallery of Art preserves, collects, exhibits, and fosters an understanding of works of art.  The Gallery’s collection of paintings, drawings, photographs, sculpture, and other arts traces the development of Western Art from the Middle Ages to the present, including the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the Americas.

• Discover highlights of the National Gallery’s collections
• View the NGA’s online Google Arts & Culture collection including Vermeer and the Masters of Genre Painting
• Explore the NGA’s online editions 
• Learn about the design of the Gallery’s East Building by architect I.M. Pei 
• Experience their virtual museum tour of Degas at the Opera
• No visit to the NGA is complete without reflecting in the Rothko room: experience a virtual tour
• Explore their open-source library of images including their 
• View their collection of 40,000 photographs dating from the 1850’s to today
• Listen to the story of how Marc Chagall’s mosaic Orphée made its way from a private garden in Georgetown to the NGA’s Sculpture Garden:

Smithsonian American Art Museum (SAAM) & Renwick Gallery

The Smithsonian American Art Museum  holds one of the world’s largest and most inclusive collections of American art, from the colonial period to the present, with more than 7,000 artists represented. Explore their collection 

• Experience Smithsonian American Art Museum’s collections online 
• Check out SAAM’s Google Arts & Culture collection online
• Explore the many meanings of art with Smithsonian historians and researchers through SAAM’s video series Re:Frame
• Watch all of the museum’s videos online
• Experience a Renwick Gallery exhibition in Virtual Reality

The Phillips Collection

The Phillips Collection is an art museum founded by Duncan Phillips and Marjorie Acker Phillips in 1921 as the Phillips Memorial Gallery located in the Dupont Circle neighborhood of Washington DC.

• While the Riffs and Relations exhibit is on hiatus, The Phillips Collection has published a YouTube series that allows users to engage with the exhibit and its galleries
• View other featured multimedia online

National Museum of Asian Art (Freer-Sackler Galleries)

Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the Freer and Sackler Galleries make up the National Museum of Asian Art and house the largest Asian art research library in the country.

• Explore the Museum’s collections online
• View the Museum’s online Google Arts & Culture collection
• Listen to the their podcast archive and Silk Road Stories of volunteers from the Washington DC community who have cultural ties to various sites along the ancient Silk Road
• Explore the Museum’s music series

National Museum of African Art 

The National Museum of African Art is the Smithsonian Institution’s African art museum, located on the National Mall.  Its collections include 9,000 works of traditional and contemporary African art from both Sub-Saharan and Arab North Africa, 300,000 photographs, and 50,000 library volumes.

• Explore the Museum online
• View the Museum’s Google Arts & Culture collection online 

Art Museum of the Americas 

Art Museum of the Americas is the first art museum in the United States primarily devoted to exhibiting works of modern and contemporary art from Latin America and the Caribbean. 

• The Museum is currently open on a limited basis: learn more 

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The Kennedy Center is a vibrant campus of theaters and other artistic spaces that is also a living memorial to President John F. Kennedy.  It is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, Washington National Opera, the Washington Ballet and thousands of annual performances of theater, dance, ballet, and orchestral, chamber, jazz, popular, and folk music.

• Explore the Kennedy Center online , including remote performances
• View a virtual historical and artistic tour of the Kennedy Center including performance spaces, terrace views and notable performances
• See the Kennedy Center’s online Google Arts & Culture listing
• Take a virtual tour of the Kennedy Center lobby and pretend you’re enjoying a glass of sparkling wine at an intermission
• Attend the Kennedy Center’s performances virtually with Kennedy Center at Home including new releases daily on their Digital Stage
• See live “Couch Concert” performances from musicians’ homes live every Monday, Wednesday and Friday at 4PM and see encore Millennium Stage performances on-demand
• Take a guided tour of Jazz in DC and get inspired with a seasonal playlist of classical music

National Zoo & Washington DC Gardens

Next on our Washington DC virtual tour: let’s explore the green spaces of the city with a stop at the National Zoo and beautiful DC gardens.

Smithsonian National Zoo

The National Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and part of the Smithsonian Institution.   Founded in 1889, its mission is to provide engaging experiences with animals and create and share knowledge to save wildlife and habitats.

• View the Zoo’s online Google Arts & Culture collection including Cheetah Conservation Station
• Take a virtual tour of National Zoo highlights (select a language, click “begin tour” and scroll down to start)
• Experience the Zoo from home with their live zoo webcams including the live cheetah cub cam and famous DC panda cam

Love zoos and wildlife? Be sure to check out my feature guide to virtual field trips of the best zoos and live safaris around the globe , including how you can livestream a free guided safari every day!

U.s. botanic garden.

The United States Botanical Garden is a botanic garden on the grounds of the United States Capitol near Garfield Circle. The garden includes a nearly 30,000-square foot conservatory, the National Garden, and Bartholdi Park. It’s the oldest continually-operating botanic garden in the United states, and is known for its rare and endangered plants, 5,000 orchid specimens and its annual holiday display.

• Learn about their gardens and plant species
• Take a virtual tour of the U.S. Botanic Garden
• Check out their online events on Facebook , like free guided yoga sessions from inside the garden

Smithsonian Gardens 

The Smithsonian Gardens are landscapes, interiorscapes, and horticulture-related collections and exhibits, which extend the Smithsonian museum experience into a public garden setting, with over 180 acres of green space and 13 gardens.

• Learn about the Smithsonian Gardens
• Take a virtual reality tour of the Enid A. Haupt Garden and the Moongate Garden at the Smithsonian Castle
• Find out about their current and past exhibitions

U.S. National Arboretum

The United States National Arboretum is a public garden, research facility, and urban green space located in Northeast Washington DC. Comprised of 446 acres, the Arboretum is a place of research, education, and discovery as well as an oasis of open space in the Nation’s capital. It was established in 1927 and is operated by the United States Department of Agriculture.

• Learn about the garden’s collections
• See Google street view photos of the arboretum , including their bonsai, azalea and the famous National Capitol Columns which were part of the Capitol building from 1828 to 1958

Tudor Place

Tudor Place is a Federal-style mansion in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington DC that was home to 6 generations of descendants of George Washington’s wife Martha Custis Washington.  Tours here explore the family stories and the histories of the servants and enslaved workers.  The estate’s collections include more than 15,000 decorative arts items, archival, historic and archaeological artifacts, including the largest collection of Washington artifacts outside Mount Vernon.

• Take a virtual tour inside Tudor Place with ABC News and explore their gardens
• Learn more about Tudor Place with educational resources

Looking for more ways to explore Washington DC’s green spaces? Check out my guide to the best Washington DC gardens by blooming season .

National Mall & Capitol Hill Sights

The National Mall is home to monuments including the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument. At the eastern end is the U.S. Capitol, with the White House to the north. The long grassy lawns of the Mall are flanked by Smithsonian museums and other iconic Washington DC sights. Nearby, the Tidal Basin reservoir is home to the Jefferson Memorial as well as the famous DC cherry blossoms. Don’t miss these sights on your virtual tour of Washington DC, especially the 4th of July celebrations!

4th of July Fireworks on the National Mall

The Independence Day holiday has always felt extra special to me in Washington DC! Check out some of the best online videos of 4th of July fireworks in our nation’s capital below.

• The 1812 Overture & Fireworks by the National Symphony (2014)
• 2020 4th of July Fireworks view from the National Mall (pretend you’re there having a picnic!)
• 2019 4th of July Fireworks from the Washington Post (skip ahead to the 43:00 minute mark when the action starts!)
• 2018 4th of July Fireworks from the Associated Press

The White House

• View the online White House Google Arts & Culture collection
• Take a 360-degree White House virtual tour and a “guided” virtual tour
• Learn about The White House

United States Capitol

The United States Capitol Building is the home of the United States Congress and the seat of the legislative branch of the U.S. federal government. It’s located on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall.  The original building was completed in 1800.

• Explore with an amazing virtual tour of the U.S. Capitol
• View the Capitol’s online Google Arts & Culture collection
• Plan a visit and see virtual tours from the U.S. House of Representatives

United States Architect of the Capitol

The Architect of the Capitol is the federal agency responsible for the maintenance, operation, development, and preservation of the Capitol complex. 

• Explore the Capitol campus with an immersive virtual field trip and virtual exhibits
• Learn about the history of the Capitol complex with the Architect’s Virtual Capitol

Jefferson Memorial

The Jefferson Memorial is a presidential memorial built in Washington, D.C. between 1939 and 1943 to Thomas Jefferson, the principal author of the United States Declaration of Independence.

• Take a virtual reality 360-degree tour of the Jefferson Memorial and learn about its history
• Explore the Jefferson Memorial with a virtual Google Arts & Culture tour

Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is an obelisk on the National Mall built to commemorate George Washington, the first President of the United States. Located almost due east of the Reflecting Pool and the Lincoln Memorial,the monument is both the world’s tallest predominantly stone structure and the world’s tallest obelisk.

• Find out what’s inside the Washington Monument

Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is a partially man-made reservoir between the Potomac River and the Washington Channel and the spotlight of the annual spring Cherry Blossom Festival.  Memorials here include Jefferson, the Martin Luther King, Jr., the Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and George Mason Memorial. 

• Explore the Tidal Basin with a virtual tour
• Experience the Virtual Cherry Blossoms Festival
• Step back in time with imagined views of Washington DC from 1800-2016

If your bucket list includes seeing Washington DC for our spring cherry blossoms, don’t miss my guide to planning a visit including a detailed Tidal Basin blossom-spotting map! And get my tips on the best Washington DC Airbnbs for your trip.

Library of Congress 

The Library of Congress is the research library that officially serves the United States Congress and is commonly considered the national library of the United States. The Library of Congress is one of the largest libraries in the world, and its collections include research materials from all parts of the world and in more than 450 languages.

• Learn about the Library with history and online tours
• Explore the Library’s current exhibitions
• Tour the Library in 360 degrees
• Explore the Library’s video vault

National Archives 

The National Archives and Records Administration is an independent agency of the United States government charged with the preservation and documentation of government and historical records.  The National Archives exhibits include the original United States Declaration of Independence, United States Constitution, United States Bill of Rights, and many other historical documents.

• View the Rotonda of the National Archives in 360 degrees
• Explore the National Archives’ digital resources  
• Discover the Archives’ exhibits online

Free Bill of Rights Lesson Plan & Activities

Get a free Bill of Rights lesson plan and activities for grades 4-8 from We are Teachers.

Folger Shakespeare Library

The Folger Shakespeare Library is an independent research library on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., in the United States. It has the world’s largest collection of the printed works of William Shakespeare, and is a primary repository for rare materials from the early modern period.

• Explore the Library online including their Shakespeare Unlimited podcast
• Listen to audio recordings of seven Shakespeare plays

Want to know an adorable secret about the National Mall? The reflecting pools are home to baby ducks in spring! Check out my Washington DC ducklings guide and see photos.

More Washington DC Historic Sites

We’re not done with this Washington DC virtual tour yet! We’ve got several historic sites and more attractions still to go.

National Cathedral 

Washington National Cathedral is an American cathedral of the Episcopal Church. The cathedral is of Neo-Gothic design closely modeled on English Gothic style of the late fourteenth century. 

• Explore the special architectural features of the Cathedral online including the rose window, peal bells and Darth Vader grotesque.

Frederick Douglass National Historic Site 

The Frederick Douglass National Historic Site, administered by the National Park Service, is located in a neighborhood east of the Anacostia River in Southeast DC.  The site preserves the home and estate of Frederick Douglass, one of the most prominent African Americans of the 19th century. 

• View a virtual tour of the site
• Explore the Frederick Douglass Google Arts & Culture listing
• Watch the moving short film by National Public Radio of young descendants of Frederick Douglass reading and discussing his famous speech, “ What to the Slave is the Fourth of July? “
• Watch past Facebook Live videos while the site is closed, including reading and discussing The Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass with Ranger Kevin

Universities

Explore these Washington DC universities with virtual tours.

• Catholic University of America
• Georgetown University 
• Gallaudet University
• American University

American Presidents

Learn more about two of America’s most notable presidents with these online resources and virtual Washington DC tours.

George Washington

Mount Vernon was the plantation of George Washington, the first President of the United States, and his wife Martha Washington. And it’s a must-see for this Washington DC virtual tour! The Mount Vernon estate is situated on the banks of the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia, a half hour from DC near Alexandria.

• Explore and learn about Mount Vernon with a really cool virtual tour
• Learn about George Washington through notes and personal items as well as his most famous portrait
• Learn about the day-to-day lives of the enslaved people at Mount Vernon including known biographies

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln was the 16th president of the United States (1861–1865). Lincoln led the nation through its greatest moral, constitutional, and political crisis in the American Civil War. On April 14, 1865, just days after the war’s end, he was assassinated while enjoying a night at the theater by Confederate sympathizer and spy John Wilkes Booth. Lincoln is consistently ranked as the greatest U.S. president. 

• Explore the Ford’s Theater Google Arts & Culture listing, including a fascinating online exhibit about Lincoln’s funeral train procession
• View the digital resources of Lincoln’s Cottage  
• Read about Lincoln’s writings and views on slavery
• Take a virtual reality tour of the Lincoln Memorial
• Take an online tour of the Lincoln Memorial and listen to insights from a National Park Service ranger
• View an online Smithsonian exhibition Abraham Lincoln: An Extraordinary Life
• Listen to a Smithsonian podcast and explore a little-known side of this president with Abraham Lincoln: Prankster-in-Chief
• Explore a Google Arts & Culture exhibition Lincoln from Postmaster to President

Thomas Jefferson

Monticello was the plantation home of Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States. Located about 2.5 hours from Washington DC, it’s often visited as a day trip from the city.

• Explore all of Monticello’s online resources
• Take a virtual tour of Monticello ; there are both paid guided tours and free options, including a cool 360-degree tour
• View the Google Arts & Culture Monticello Tour with video insights from historians, curators and guides
• Learn about slavery at Monticello including tours and exhibits and known biographies of the people enslaved at Monticello
• Read about the fascinating life and family history of Sally Hemings , an enslaved woman who is believed to have had six of Jefferson’s children, after negotiating for her future children’s freedom when she was just 16
• Listen to stories from the “Getting Word” oral history project, which began at Monticello in 1993 to capture stories from descendants of Monticello’s African American community

I hope that this Washington DC virtual tour guide helps fuel your wanderlust until you can travel again! Pin it for later or share with someone who needs a Washington DC virtual field trip.

The Haphazard Traveler is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Looking for more virtual travel experiences ? Check out my virtual travel guide for kids , zoo and safari field trips feature (including how to see a free live guided safari every day!) and guide to the best aquarium livefeeds and ocean webcams !

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I was a travel hot mess, but I got better! I kept the name and now blog my best tips for culture + adventure travel from around the globe. Follow along for travel advice, destination guides, and photography from faraway lands and at home in Washington, DC.

Travel Writer | Photographer | Licensed Drone Pilot Member, Society of American Travel Writers (SATW)

Open 365 days a year, Mount Vernon is located just 15 miles south of Washington DC.

From the mansion to lush gardens and grounds, intriguing museum galleries, immersive programs, and the distillery and gristmill. Spend the day with us!

Discover what made Washington "first in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen".

The Mount Vernon Ladies Association has been maintaining the Mount Vernon Estate since they acquired it from the Washington family in 1858.

Need primary and secondary sources, videos, or interactives? Explore our Education Pages!

The Washington Library is open to all researchers and scholars, by appointment only.

Virtual Tour

Beautiful, Panoramic Images in 360 Degrees

Panorama of the New Room

Panorama of the Upper Garden

At the heart of the Virtual Tour is a set of beautiful 360 degree panoramic images that you can fully control and view. 

Tour every major room within the Mount Vernon Mansion, and see the upper garden, kitchen, the Fred W. Smith National Library for the Study of George Washington, and George Washington's Gristmill & Distillery.

Many of our panoramas were filmed in locations that are not always open to the public, giving you unparalleled access.

Engaging the Virtual Tour is easy. Just use your mouse, trackpad, or finger to move left or right and up or down. These motions will enable you to see ornate ceilings, original floorboards, and all around you, giving you an exciting, full-immersion experience.

Clickable Points of Interest

Each of our virtual tour panoramas includes a number of clickable points of interest. These clickable points allow viewers to learn more about a variety of details which include artwork, objects, architectural elements, buildings, archaeological sites, furniture, plants, books, and more. Stories of human and historic interest are also connected to the viewable locations as well.

Each of our points of interest include images and text descriptions that bring topics vibrantly to life. By zooming in you can see the stunningly intricate details of paintings, sketches, and other fascinating objects. 

And if you would prefer to travel through the panoramas without the displayed clickable points, you can click on the point's toggle to turn them on and off.

Videos from our Experts

We have infused the Mount Vernon Virtual Tour with videos from our character interpreters, curators, and other Mount Vernon experts. Now you can have 24/7 access to those who know the most about the objects, architecture, and landscapes featured on the Tour.

Other videos, such as our hopper boy video found on the Gristmill Fourth Floor panorama, bring to life all of the intricacies of our fully-functioning gristmill - from the inter-working movement of the gears to the exciting sound of full production.

Many Ways to Navigate

Virtual Tour Menu

Virtual Tour Mini-Map Display

We've made the Mount Vernon Virtual Tour easy to use and simple to navigate. The best way to move from room to room or panorama to panorama is to locate and click on the panorama to panorama clickable points. Appearing as dots, you will find these navigational points near doors and passageways that lead to nearby locations. Via these clickable navigation points you will be able to wander naturally - as you would if you were actually there.

Users who would like to move quickly from one point within the Virtual Tour to another can also use the menu that is found along the top of the desktop version of the Mount Vernon Virtual Tour.  Choose the section of the tour that you would like to engage and then click on the panorama of choice.

We have also included a mini-map display that can be viewed through the map icon at the bottom of the screen (desktop version). Once activated, you can see where you are located within the Tour. From here, you can also click on various points to go to another area of the Tour.

Works on Tablets and Smartphones Too

The Mount Vernon Virtual Tour is accessible via popular tablets or smartphones. Now you can wander the historic Mount Vernon estate from anywhere you have an internet connection.

We would like to thank The Founders, Washington Committee for Historic Mount Vernon and Scott and Lynn Molitor for their support of the Mount Vernon Virtual Tour project. 

This offering was produced in partnership with HULLFILM , a leader in the production of virtual tour offerings.

Quick Links

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Live, Virtual Capitol Tour

Join one of our knowledgeable guides for a live, virtual tour of the Capitol. The tour includes the Crypt, Rotunda, National Statuary Hall, the Old Supreme Court Chamber, and the Old Senate Chamber. The tour will have live video and audio with time for questions and answers.

These online tours are available upon request by emailing [email protected] . Tours are 45-60 minutes, including time for questions and answers. Tour participation requires a device that plays sound and video. Participants will not be on camera and will submit questions via the chat feature.

To request an accommodation to participate in a Virtual Capitol Tour, please email your request to  [email protected]   at least 48 hours before your scheduled tour.

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Take a Virtual Tour of the White House While You're Stuck at Home

It's time for a trip to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.

Take a trip to our nation's capital without tearing yourself away from your couch.

While a trip to the White House is certainly a unique experience in person, a virtual tour can be just as incredible. Thanks to Google Arts & Culture, you can enjoy a walk through the most famous residence in the U.S. online.

Google Arts & Culture is a treasure trove of art, history, and cultural tours that are not only useful for people who are social distancing due to the coronavirus outbreak, but they're also interesting at any time. This site allows you to view some of the world's most famous artworks by taking virtual tours of hundreds of museums . Enjoy a nature walk in a national park . Or, you can even take a royal tour of some of the most historic castles in the world.

The White House is a particularly unique tour because it is actually the only " private residence of a head of state that is open to the public, free of charge," according to Google Arts & Culture.

The Executive office building tour , which is accessible via Street View, shows you many rooms in the Eisenhower Executive Office Building beyond the Oval Office, including the Vice President's Ceremonial Office, the Secretary of War suite, and the library. You can also view the historical artwork (including official portraits of the former heads of state, pottery, and sculptures on display) in the White House and see its unique decor. On top of this being a visually-stimulating tour, it also offers history and interesting facts about everything you can see.

Street View makes it possible to explore the interiors and exteriors of the White House as well. Once you're done perusing the historic offices, you can find how it feels to virtually be standing on the White House lawn.

For more information or to take a tour yourself, visit the Google Arts & Culture website.

Related Articles

50+ Washington DC Virtual Tours : Explore Our Nation’s Capital

Take a virtual tour of the Supreme Court

Use these more than 50 Washington DC Virtual Tours to explore our nation’s capital from your classroom. This is an excellent resource for class trip preparation. A Washington DC virtual tour can be built into pre-trip class projects to engage student learning before traveling to Washington DC.  We offer many additional resources to prepare for your trip.

Scholastica Travel specializes in school travel to Washington DC. We can help you plan a trip for your school that aligns with your curriculum and travel interests.

1.  The White House

2.  National Zoo : Take a virtual visit to the zoo and watch many of the animals on live web cams.

3. United States Capitols and Landmarks Tour

4.  National Aquarium

Tour the United States Botanic Garden

5.  Washington National Cathedral

6.  Embassy Row Tour

7.  Frederick Douglas National Historic Site

8.  George Washington’s Mount Vernon Mansion Tour

9. Arlington National Cemetery

10. National Arboretum

11.  United States Botanic Garden

12. Tidal Basin

13. Reflecting Pool 

14. Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

Washington   DC   Virtual   Tour:  Capitol   Hill

15.  Capitol Hill  – Explore each of the buildings located on Capitol Hill.

16. US Capitol Rotunda : View interactive panoramics of the US Capitol Rotunda. Use the navigation at the bottom of the panoramic to visit:

• 17. National Statuary Hall
• 18. Old Senate Chamber
• 19. The Capitol Crypt
• 20. Old Supreme Court Chamber
• 21. Brumidi Corridors
• 22. House Chamber
• 23. Senate Committee Room
• 24. East Front of the Capitol

25.  Supreme Court 

26.  Library of Congress

Washington   DC   Virtual   Tour:  Museums

27.  United States Holocaust Memorial Museum Online Exhibitions

National Archives

• 28.  Rotunda
• 29.  National Archives Digital Vaults

National Gallery of Art

• 30. National Gallery of Art East Building
• 31.  Center Atrium
• 32.  West Atrium 
• 33.  National Gallery o f Art Sculpture Garden

Take a virtual tour of the Smithsonian Postal Museum

34. Smithsonian National Postal Museum

35.  Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

36.  Smithsonian National Museum of American History Current Exhibitions

37.  Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – Udvar – Hazy Center : High Resolution Photos and 360 degree panoramas.

38. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum – National Mall Online Exhibitions

39. Smithsonian Museum of American Indian Online Exhibitions

40.  Smithsonian Museum of American Art and Renwick Gallery Online Exhibitions

41 . Smithsonian National Portrait Gallery Web Online Exhibitions

42.  Newseum

43. International Spy Museum 

44 . Hirshhorn Museum Current Exhibitions

Washington   DC   Virtual   Tour:  Memorials

• 45. Lincoln Memorial
• 46. Korean War Veterans Memorial 
• 47. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
• 48. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
• 49.  Jefferson Memorial
• 50.  Navy Memorial
• 51. Washington Monument
• 52.   American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial
• 53. World War II Memorial

Washington   DC   Virtual   Tour:   Theaters   and   Performance   Centers

54.  Ford’s Theatre

55. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

56. Folger Shakespeare Library – Elizabethan Theatre

Washington   DC   Virtual   Tour:   Universities

57. Howard University

58. American University

59. Gallaudet University

60. Catholic University of America

Ready to plan your school trip? Click the button below to get started!

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The Ultimate Washington, DC Virtual Travel Guide

I absolutely LOVE DC, and made it official by moving here 8 years ago. As a local, I know that this city has SO much to offer – even to the virtual visitor. So I decided to put together a list of the best virtual experiences you could have here. So whether the virus is keeping you indoors, or you simply want to do some research for your next trip, this is the post for you. Keep reading for the ultimate Washington, DC Virtual Travel Guide!

Table of Contents

A Short Overview | Washington, DC

The area known as Washington, DC was initially home to the native Piscataway and Natcotchtank peoples before the arrival of European settlers in the 1600s. The area was selected as the new nation’s capitol in 1790, taking equal land from Virginia and Maryland. One little known fact is that the city was originally a perfect diamond shape, having 100-sq miles. But this all changed with the advent of the civil war and Virginia taking back land.

Today this city is known as being not only the nation’s political center, but also a center for culture, arts, and sports. While not a huge city, it’s metro area is the 6th largest in the US. While the largest industry here is government, 2nd largest is tourism, which is why there are so many great virtual tour options here.

Virtual Tour of the National Mall

The National Mall is one of the most iconic locations in the city. A huge stretch of land located between the capitol building and the Washington Monument, this area is where you’ll typically find locals exercising, lounging, and more. And it’s also a place where many tourists rest in between visiting the many cites located nearby the mall.

For the best view of the National Mall, I recommend the panoramic views provided here on the YouVisit site. In addition to views of the mall itself, you can also find panoramic views of the surrounding monuments.

Fun Fact: I attended grad school at George Washington University in DC, and got to graduate on the National Mall! (We are the only school in the city/country permitted to do this).

Virtual Tour of Washington, DC Monuments

What is Washington, DC without her monuments? After “visiting” the mall, it’s time to start checking out some of the classic monument sites that really make the city what it is today.

Washington Monument Virtual Tour

The Washington Monument, built in honor of our first president, George Washington, is the tallest building in the city. It is also the tallest obelisk in the world, as well as the tallest building made predominately of stone. This monument sits at one end of the National Mall, opposite the Capitol building. The video below provides a great virtual tour of the monument, as well as some additional history on the building.

Lincoln Memorial Virtual Tour

This memorial, built in honor of President Abraham Lincoln, is another popular landmark in the city. This monument was carved from marble found in different locations throughout the US to represent Lincoln’s role in unifying the United State s . Click here for a virtual tour of the monument from HistoryView.

RELATED POST: The Best Cities in the United States

Martin Luther King Memorial (MLK) Virtual Tour

The newest of the DC monuments, this memorial commemorates the efforts of MLK in making this country a safer and more inclusive place for black people in the United States. While I couldn’t find an official virtual tour, this video does a great job of providing history on MLK and an overview of the monument as well.

Virtual Tour of Washington, DC Museums

The museums in DC are some of the best found anywhere in the country, particularly the numerous Smithsonian museums located throughout the city. Check out the virtual tours listed below to get a taste of what the city has to offer:

Smithsonian Virtual Tours

The Smithsonian currently offers several virtual tour options, the first three being more of an immersive experience than the rest listed here.

• The Museum of Natural History is probably one of the most popular in the city, and for good reason. It’s full of dinosaurs and recreations of other extinct animals. You’ll also find exhibits on all aspects of our current natural world, including animals, plants, and insects. Perfect for kids and adults alike! The virtual tour of this museum is quite extensive, covering pretty much the whole, massive museum. Click here for the Virtual Tour .
• The Smithsonian Castle is home to the Smithsonian Visitor Center, providing insight into all the museums that are a part of the organization. It features beautiful 19th century architecture, that should be particularly interesting for you who love beautiful buildings. The virtual tour provides glimpses of the common areas, crypt, library, and gardens. Click here for the Virtual Tour .
• The Hirshhorn is a lovely outdoor art gallery that features plenty of unique statues and large art pieces. This virtual tour is not as extensive as the two mentioned above, but is still worth viewing if you are an art lover. Click here for the Virtual Tour .
• The National Portrait Gallery has become famous in recent years for housing the well-know “Obama Portraits. There are several Online Exhibitions available for you to visit at your leisure, including “Up Close with George Washington” and “Portraits of African Americans”. Click Here to See Available Online Exhibits .
• My FAVORITE museum, probably anywhere, is the National Museum of African American History . I don’t you’ll find a more true picture of the experiences of black people in American anywhere else – it is an educational, and quite moving experience. Unfortunately, they don’t have an official virtual tour at the moment, but the below YouTube video does provide some insight into what it’s like to visit the museum.

Virtual Tours of Capitol Buildings

If you love politics, or have simply desired to see where the nation’s government leaders work, there are tours for several of our capitol buildings:

Virtual Tour of the White House

The White House is of course known for being the home of the US President, and has served in this role since the year 1800. Politics aside, this house is beautiful, and much larger on the inside than you’d expect. Check out the virtual exhibits provided by Google Arts & Culture for a peak into this famous home. Visit the exhibits by clicking here .

Virtual Tour of the US Capitol Building

The US Capitol Building has served as the home to the US Congress since the year 1800, and has recently been renovated. The building is huge, having 16.5 acres of floor area, and is quite beautiful to look at. For detailed information on the history of the building and virtual walk throughs, check out the Architect’s Virtual Capitol site .

Virtual Washington DC Tours for Kids

If you have little ones, I highly recommend that you take them to the zoo using the virtual tour provided by the National Zoo . Great for an educational experience, this tour provides an overview of all the exhibits in the zoo, and conservation efforts being taken there. Click here for the Virtual Tour .

Another option for older kiddos is a Virtual Field Trip – this 15-minute video provides a great overview of the city and its history.

Virtual Washington, DC Experiences

For a single, immersive experience on what it’s like to visit Washington, DC, I’ve put together a few free and paid options for you to consider:

Free Virtual Washington, DC Experiences:

For free experiences, I recommend checking out Travel Guides on YouTube. Here are a few ideas:

• Top 10 Things to Do in Washington DC : This video provides a list of things you must see in the city, and provides visuals so that you can get a sense of the city overall.
• Our Favorite Spots in DC : Get more of an insider view of the city while following along a self-guided bike tour.

RELATED : New York Travel Guide

Paid Virtual Washington, DC Experiences:

• Virtual Online Grand Tour of Washington, DC : This tour allows you to bring up to 10 people along for a virtual presentation on the city with a history expert. Facilitated via zoom call, you’ll be able to ask questions throughout the 2-Hour experience.
• Virtual Tour of African American Heritage in Washington, DC : Similarly to the tour above, this 2-hour experience will provide an overview of the city as it relates to the experiences of African Americans here.

In Summary | The Best Washington, DC Virtual Travel Guide

I hope that you found this Washington DC Virtual Travel Guide insightful! As a recap, we covered:

• Virtual Visits to the National Mall
• Virtual Visits to the Monuments
• Virtual Visits to Museums
• Virtual Visits to Capitol Buildings
• Virtual Full DC Experiences

Let me know if there are other ideas I may have missed in the comments below!

Related Posts:

• Best US Cities to Visit
• New Orleans Travel Guide
• New York Travel Guide
• 4 Days in Washington, DC

Christen Thomas is the founder of TravelWanderGrow, established in 2018. She has lived abroad and traveled extensively to over 30 countries. In addition, she is a certified Travel Advisor and is an expert in planning trips focused on city history and culture. As a frequent traveler, she also shares tips on how to prepare to travel well and how to save money while doing so.

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Take a virtual tour of exhibitions at the National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC.

These virtual tours are made possible through the generous support of Eric Byunn and Alyssa Rieder.

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The Educators' Spin On It

Learning Games and Activities

Washington, D.C. Virtual Field Trip for Kids

Let’s go to our nation’s capital on this Washington, D.C. Virtual Field Trip for Kids! Get prepared to fully immerse yourself in U.S. History as you explore Washington, D.C.

Which popular Washington, D.C. destination will you explore first?

TIP: Use this Table of Content to help you navigate which locations you want to take a virtual tour of.

Facts About Washington, D.C. for Kids

The national mall, the u.s. capitol building, the white house, supreme court of the united states, the washington monument, lincoln memorial, thomas jefferson memorial, martin luther king jr. memorial, franklin delano roosevelt memorial, world war ii memorial, vietnam veterans memorial, korean war memorial, arlington cemetary, u.s. air force memorial, marine corps war memorial (iwo jima memorial), library of congress, national archives museum, national gallery of art, national 9/11 pentagon memorial.

• United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

Mount Vernon

• Washington National Cathedral
• National Museum of Natural History
• National Air and Space Museum

National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

U.s. botanic garden.

• National Museum of African American History and Culture
• National Museum of American History

National Zoological Park

The smithsonian, international spy museum, the national law enforcement officers memorial, dwight d. eisenhower memorial, tips for how to discuss monuments and memorials with kids.

• Printable Activities for Kids

Children’s Books about Washington, D.C.

Explore 30+ Virtual Field Trips for Kids

Washington DC Virtual Field Trip for Kids

Are you planning a trip to Washington, D.C. with your child? You might be wondering what are the best things to do in DC?

Here’s the honest truth, kids of all ages will love visiting here but only if you keep it at a pace that’s set for them and their age group.

The first tip is to start with a Virtual Field Trip to Washington, D.C.

There’s something quite magical about a child discovering a real-life building or statue after seeing it in a short video online. Somehow all the details are enhanced for them and they search to find the interesting elements of each historic building. It almost becomes like a real-life I-Spy game!

I’ve put together a collection of Virtual Tours within Washington, D.C. to prepare your child for their visit to our nation’s capital.

This collection of Washington, D.C. Virtual Field Trips will include locations that…

• Honor Past Presidents
• Honor Those That Have Served
• The Seat of Power in the United States
• National Treasures
• Must-See Sites in Washington, D.C.

Grab our virtual field trip log to track your virtual field trips.

Washington, DC, the United States capital, is a compact city on the Potomac River, bordering the states of Maryland and Virginia. It’s defined by historical monuments and buildings – including the iconic ones that house the federal government’s 3 branches: the Capitol, White House, and Supreme Court.

It’s also home to iconic museums and performing-arts venues. Many of the most popular destinations are located on the National Mall.

Let’s get exploring our Washington, D.C. Virtual Field Trip starting here at the National Mall, the center of the capital.

The National Mall is basically a long, rectangular public park stretching from the U.S. Capitol Building on its east end to the Lincoln Memorial on its west end. It is 1.8 miles long by .3 miles wide. It consists of iconic monuments and memorials on 1,000 acres of green space in Washington, D.C.

National Mall and Memorial Parks is responsible for more than 1,000 acres of parkland, including 14 individual units of the National Park System. Here’s a map to take a closer look.

National Mall and Memorial Parks monuments and memorials honor the bravery, sacrifices, and beliefs of those who have served their nation, its people, and all humanity. The National Park Service

Discovery Education and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden welcome students to a behind-the-scenes Virtual Field Trip to experience the history and beauty of our nation’s capital.

• National Mall 360* Guided Virtual Tour

You can track your virtual tours with our  Printable Virtual Field Trip Log !

The U.S. Capitol is home to the U.S. Congress and its two legislative bodies, the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate. It’s considered to be a monument to the American people. It is where the issues facing the nation are considered, debated, and written into law.

The U.S. Capitol also houses an important collection of American art and is an architectural achievement in its own right.

Did you know that the Capitol campus is made up of more than 18.4 million square feet of facilities, and 570 acres of grounds?

As you plan a visit to the U.S. Capitol, students can learn more from these guides.

• State Statue Guide in U.S. Capitol
• Virtual Resources for the Capital Campus
• Virtual U.S. Capitol Tour
• The Tiny Doors in the U.S. Capitol
• Capitol Video Tour for Middle School Students
• Capitol Hill & Library of Congress Walking Tour

Here are some resources for parents and kids to learn about advocacy and our U.S. voting system .

The White House is the official residence and workplace of the president of the United States. It is located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington, D.C., and has been the residence of every U.S. president since John Adams in 1800.

• Google Maps Virtual Tour of White House
• The People’s House – Inside the White House with the Obama’s
• What’s Inside the White House
• The White House for Kids
• White House Facts and History – Fun Facts for Kids

“The White House is where the President and First Family of the United States live and work — but it’s also the People’s House, where we hope all Americans feel a sense of inclusion and belonging.” The White House

Although located off the National Mall, we want to include all three branches of our US Government with the Supreme Court Building. The construction, begun in 1932, was completed in 1935 when the Court was finally able to occupy its own building. Here are the current members of the Supreme Court .

• Capitol Hill Tour (& Library of Congress + Supreme Court)
• Activity Booklet and Coloring Booklet for Kids
• Explore the Online Exhibits at the Supreme Court

The Washington Monument is one of the nation’s most recognizable structures in Washington, D.C.

Built to honor George Washington, the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and the first president of the United States, the Washington Monument was once the tallest building in the world at just over 555 feet. The monument to America’s first president still holds the title of the world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk. At its base are 50 American flags, one for each state.

• Photo Gallery of The Washington Monument
• Inside the Washington Monument
• Washington Monument Visitor Tips
• What’s inside the Washington Monument?

The iconic Lincoln memorial was built to honor the 16th U.S. president and is a must-see for every visitor to the nation’s capital. There are 36 columns, each one representing one state in the U.S. at the date of President Lincoln’s death. The memorial itself is 190 feet long and 119 feet wide and reaches a height of almost 100 feet. The statue of Lincoln stands 19 feet tall.

The walls have carved inscriptions of Lincoln’s quotes including the Gettysburg Address, one of the most famous speeches in U.S. history.

• Photo Gallery of the Lincoln Monument
• The Lincoln Memorial for Kids
• Lincoln Memorial, Washington [HD]

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial honors America’s founding father and primary author of the Declaration of Independence. The location and architecture of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial make it stand out among DC’s amazing array of monuments and memorials.

This memorial is our family’s personal favorite in DC.

• Park Ranger Jeff Jones briefly describes the significance of the Thomas Jefferson Memorial
• Thomas Jefferson Memorial Visitors Guide

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial honors Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the movement he led, and his message of freedom and equality. A wall of quotes from Dr. King’s long civil rights career presents his ideals of peace, democracy, justice, and love. 

The memorial is the first to honor an African American individual on the National Mall, as well as the first on the National Mall to honor a citizen activist, rather than a United States President or war hero. 

• Martin Luther King Memorial ~ Washington DC
• Martin Luther King, Jr Memorial

The FDR Memorial uses elements of stone, water, and landscaping to tell the story of FDR’s presidency in a more approachable way. Quotes are at eye level and the statues are at or close to ground level and were meant to be touched.

• Tidal Basin Tour of FDR, MLK & Jefferson
• National Parks Expedition Challenge: FDR Memorial

“Memorials play a part in both remembering and forgetting major events and historical figures. The meaning of memorials—such as the Statue of Liberty, the Trail of Tears National Historic Trail, and the USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor—may change significantly over time and across generations.” Susan Crane, a UA historian

56 pillars surround a central fountain, commemorating the efforts and sacrifices of those who served, supported, and died in World War II. Each gold star represents 100 Americans who died in the war. Just over 4,000 of these stars clearly reflect the loss of 405,399 Americans in this struggle. In the center of the memorial visitors find themselves surrounded by statements from  President Franklin D. Roosevelt, President Harry S Truman, author Walter Lord and commanding officers of the U.S. military.

• Photo Gallery of World War II Memorial
• Virtual Tour: World War II Memorial narrated by Tom Hanks
• World War II Memorial, Washington

Honoring the men and women who served in the controversial Vietnam War, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial chronologically lists the names of 58,318 Americans who gave their lives in service to their country.

• Listen to Park Ranger Jeff Jones describing the significance of this monument
• The History of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• How to Visit the Vietnam Wall

Be sure to stop by the Vietnam Women’s Memorial while you’re there.

The memorial commemorates the sacrifices of the 5.8 million Americans who served in the U.S. armed services during the three-year period of the Korean War.

The triangular monument consists of Walls and a Pool of Remembrance, and 19 stainless steel statues that are approximately 7-feet tall and represent an ethnic cross-section of America.

• Korean War Veterans Memorial  

“ Our nation honors her sons and daughters who answered the call to defend a country they never knew and a people they never met “ Dedication Stone at Korean War Memorial

The Arlington National Cemetery is the country’s largest military cemetery and serves as the final resting place for more than 400,000 military veterans and their immediate family from the fronts of Iraq and Afghanistan, as well as World Wars I and II, the Korean conflict, Vietnam, the Cold War, and America’s Civil War. This cemetery consists of 639 acres.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is Arlington National Cemetery’s most iconic memorial. Here is where you will witness the Changing of the Guard ritual—an elaborate, somber ceremony.

• Interactive Arlington Cemetary Map
• Arlington National Cemetery Education Program

Three stainless steel spires reach a height of 402 feet above sea-level. It is adjacent to the Arlington National Cemetery and overlooks the Pentagon.

• Air Force Memorial
• US Air Force Memorial, Washington  

The United States Marine Corps War Memorial represents this nation’s gratitude to Marines and those who have fought beside them. While the statue depicts one of the most famous incidents of World War II, the memorial is dedicated to all Marines who have given their lives in defense of the United States since 1775.

Watch a video about The story of what the US Marine Corps War Memorial symbolizes

• Iwo Jima Memorial, Washington  

The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, with  millions of books, recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps, and manuscripts The Library of Congress serves as the main research arm to committees and staff of the U.S. Congress, other government agencies, libraries throughout the country and the world, and the scholars, researchers, artists, and scientists who use its resources.

It is the home of the U.S. Copyright Office.

• Virtual Views of Library of Congress
• The Library of Congress Is Your Library
• Visiting the Library of Congress

The National Archives Museum in Washington, DC, is home to the Declaration of Independence , Constitution , and Bill of Rights .

• How to Visit the National Archives in DC
• National Archives
• We the People: The National Archives

The National Gallery of Art, founded as a gift to the nation, serves as a center of visual art, education, and culture. Our collection of more than 150,000 paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, photographs, prints, and drawings spans the history of Western art and showcases some of the triumphs of human creativity.

For your young artist, take advantage of their Learning Resources for Art .

• Take a 360 Degree Virtual Tour
• Five Must-See Masterpieces at the National Gallery of Art

The National 9/11 Pentagon Memorial is a national memorial dedicated to the tragic events that occurred on Sept. 11, 2001. The memorial has an emotive power that few other memorials have, even to the youngest of visitors.

• Interactive Map

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is a living memorial that encourages visitors to remember, reflect, and act to confront hate and promote human dignity.

This is one that you’ll want to discuss with your child prior to visiting and decide what’s appropriate for their age group.

• The museum has created a Virtual Field Trip for students about the Holocaust
• Holocaust Museum Washington DC

Mount Vernon is an American landmark and former plantation of George Washington, the first president of the United States, and his wife, Martha. The estate is on the banks of the Potomac River in Fairfax County, Virginia.

• Virtual Tour of Mount Vernon with video and clickable 360 views
• Explore Mount Vernon Online Learning Resources
• George Washington’s Historic Mount Vernon
• The Home & Estate of George Washington  

Washington National Cathedral:

Stonemasons and builders erected the cathedral beginning in 1907, completing it 83 years later in 1990. Carved from Indiana limestone, the structure boasts a 30-story-tall central tower, an interior nine-bay nave and 215 stained glass windows, including one embedded with a moon rock.

• Explore the timeline of the National Cathedral in U.S. History
• Fly Through Washington National Cathedral
• Tour Washington National Cathedral & Bell Tower

The National Museum of Natural History is organized into seven departments: anthropology, botany, entomology, mineral sciences, invertebrate zoology, paleobiology, and vertebrate zoology. The museum holds more than 146 million objects and specimens, making it the largest natural history collection in the world.

• National Museum of Natural History – Student Orientation Video
• Highlights of the Smithsonian Natural History Museum
• A Day at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum maintains the world’s largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artifacts, encompassing all aspects of human flight, as well as related works of art and archival materials. It operates two landmark facilities that, together, welcome more than eight million visitors a year, making it the most visited museum in the country.

The National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC is temporarily closed through fall 2022.

• Take a Virtual Tour
• National Air and Space Museum – Student Orientation Video
• National Air and Space Museum – Washington DC – What to Expect

The Udvar-Hazy Center displays thousands of aviation and space artifacts, including the Space Shuttle Discovery and a Concorde, in two large hangars

Take a look at their Programs and Activities for Kids

• National Air and Space Museum – Udvar-Hazy Center – Student Orientation Video
• Visit the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
• Virtual Tour of the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum

Established by the U.S. Congress in 1820, the U.S. Botanic Garden is the oldest continuously operating botanic garden in the United States. Since 1934.

• 360 Degree Virtual Tour of U.S. Botanic Garden
• Explore their educational resources for kids in the garden
• United States Botanical Garden Virtual Tour in Washington, D.C.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is a place where all Americans can learn about the richness and diversity of the African American experience, what it means to their lives, and how it helped us shape this nation.

The museum’s collection of artifacts is astounding: 3,500 are on view, with another 35,000 or so in the collection.

• Explore their Digital Learning Library
• Inside the National Museum of African American History and Culture
• Inside the Smithsonian Institution National Museum of African American History and Culture
• Walk Through Smithsonian Museum of African American History
• National Museum of American History – Student Orientation Video
• Welcome to the National Museum of American History
• Smithsonian National Museum of American History

Lions, tigers, elephants, giraffes, and the zoo’s beloved giant pandas are just some of the 1,500-plus animals that call the 163-acre park home. The zoo’s habitats feature animals from 300 different species and about 25 percent of the zoo’s residents are endangered.

All of the animals at the National Zoo – which is also a global research center and conservation center – are cared for by world-class zoologists and veterinarians.

• Explore their At Home Zoo Activities
• Take a look at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo Youtube channel
• Smithsonian’s National Zoo Tour & Review with The Legend

We listed out several of these locations individually on this Virtual Field Trip guide but thought it would be good to see how many options are available in Washington, D.C. through the Smithsonian.

When you visit the Smithsonian, you’re entering the world’s largest museum, education, and research complex, with approximately 155 million artifacts and specimens in its trust for the American people. The Smithsonian Institution includes 19 museums and the National Zoological Park.

• Anacostia Community Museum
• Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
• Arts and Industries Building
• Freer Gallery of Art
• Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
• National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center (Chantilly, Virginia)
• National Museum of African Art
• National Museum of the American Indian
• National Portrait Gallery
• National Postal Museum
• Renwick Gallery
• Smithsonian American Art Museum
• Smithsonian Institution Building (“Castle”)

Explore their Fun Stuff for Kids section on their site for cool things to do.

The Smithsonian has its own Education channel on youtube, take a look!

The International Spy Museum is a private non-profit museum that documents the tradecraft, history, and contemporary role of espionage. It holds the largest collection of international espionage artifacts on public display.

• The museum has interactive virtual field trips available at cost.
• International Spy Museum | Things to Do In Washington, DC

Sadly the Newseum has closed (2019), which was quite interesting to experience. Luckily they are maintaining an active online news curriculum packed full of resources to explore with your child.

They also have a National Law Enforcement Officers Museum which offers online workshops for kids .

• National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

The Dwight D. Eisenhower Memorial tells the story of one of America’s greatest leaders of the 20th century.

• Take a look at the photo gallery
• Eisenhower Memorial unveiled after 20 years
• Eisenhower Memorial Virtual Tour

Disclosure: This post contains Amazon affiliate links.

Children may experience an overwhelming feeling at DC, that many of the monuments and memorials are dedicated to significant citizens in U.S. History that we’ve lost. You’ll want to talk about it before and after you visit virtually or in person.

We don’t often discuss death in our typical daily life, which can impact your experience at these memorials and monuments.

The topic of death and the topic of war look different at various ages. A few times over the years as a mom and teacher, I’ve observed visiting a large number of locations in a short period of time focused on famous and heroic people in U.S. History, which may weigh heavy on their hearts.

One positive way for many who visit Washington, D.C. is that they feel motivated to get involved.

Here are some tips and resources for parents and kids to learn about advocacy and our U.S. voting system . Plus a few ways to support and honor military members.

Virtual Tours of Washington, D.C.

• Virtual Field Trip – Washington, D.C. by VirtualFieldTripsnet
• Washington D.C. Vacation Travel Guide | Expedia
• Rock the Park – Washington DC Tour (For more mature viewers)
• Washington DC – US Capitol for Children (For younger viewers)
• Visitors Guide to Washington DC’s National Mall – How To Do It, What To See, Fun Facts
• Washington DC Night Tours  

Washington, D.C. Printable Lessons for Kids

• Washington, D.C. Unit for Kids
• If I Were President Printable
• Virtual Field Trip Log
• A Virtual Field Trip to Washington, D.C. Afterschool Companion Guide
• Helping Your Child Learn History
• This is Washington, D.C. : A Children’s Classic by Miroslav Sasek
• Capital!: Washington D.C. from A to Z by Laura Krauss Melmed
• Mr. Boddington’s Studio: Washington, DC ABCs by Mr. Boddington’s Studio
• Exploring the White House: Inside America’s Most Famous Home by Kate Andersen Brower
• N Is for Our Nation’s Capital: A Washington DC Alphabet by Marie Smith
• 1,000 Facts About the White House by Sarah Flynn
• My Little Golden Book about Washington, DC by Rich Volin
• Larry Gets Lost in Washington, DC by John Skewes
• My Little Golden Book About The White House Jen Arena

Ready to Go in Person? How to Get Around Washington, D.C.

In this virtual field trip guide to Washington, D.C. I shared my tips for how to go site-seeing in our country’s capital with your child, even if it’s just virtually for now.

Pick a few of each family member’s favorite locations from this virtual field trip and plan a visit there. The good thing is most of the museums in DC are free.

Be sure in person to balance out indoor and outdoor times to keep them entertained. Parents may want to read all the signs, but kids will give you about 20 minutes in one spot at most.

Washington, D.C. Mall area is a very compact space. If you’re ready to walk, this whole area is walkable. You’ll need to plan your adventure and give yourself at least 3 days to be able to see your top picks, especially when traveling with kids.

Washington, D.C. has so many famous sites that it’s difficult to keep track of all there is to see and do. One of the best ways to explore this city is on an Old Town Trolley Tours or the classic Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour , seeing the sites from an open-top red bus and getting on and off wherever you choose.

Washington, D.C. has so many locations to visit, which one will you visit first? Which virtual field trip location was your favorite?

Did I miss your favorite? Leave a comment below and let me know your favorite location to site see in the nation’s capital.

Looking for more virtual field trips for kids? Try these…

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About Kim Vij

Early childhood teacher, author, speaker and mom of 3. Kim shares ways to make learning fun and parenting an adventure by sharing developmentally appropriate activities.

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The Best Educational Virtual Field Trips to Washington DC

Are you ready to take an awesome virtual field trip to Washington DC ? It’s one of the many virtual field trips for middle school I highly recommend for tweens and their families.

Our nation’s capital is a place where you can get up close and personal with American history and government. History comes alive for visitors thanks to its beautiful architecture, historical artifacts, thought-provoking museums, inspiring art, and more.

While it may not be possible for you to visit DC in person, you can still take in the wonder of the city from the comfort of your home thanks to the many virtual tours available.

If you’re studying American history in your homeschool, you’ll definitely want to add some of these amazing educational places to your lesson plans.

This post contains affiliate links . See my policy for more information.

Table of Contents

Let’s Take a Virtual Field Trip to Washington DC

There is so much to see and do in Washington, so I’ve separated the virtual tours and field trips into categories to help you navigate this list. That way you can go directly to the type of place you want to visit.

Below, you’ll find links to museums, government buildings, memorials, and more. Your teen will be amazed at how much is packed into this small city on the East Coast.

Use the Table of Contents above to help you move throughout the list.

While this is not a full and complete list of everything you can see virtually in Washington, it’s a great place to start your journey.

American Government Sites

The white house.

The White House is an iconic symbol, not only of our government but of our country. You’ll definitely want to add a visit to this location to your American history or government lesson plans.

• Get a close-up view of the White House through the Google Arts & Culture collection.
• View videos and tours of 1600 Penn, what President Obama referred to as “ the People’s House .”
• Tour the Eisenhower Executive Office Building .

The United States Capitol

When you tour the United States Capitol , you get to see where both the Senate and the House of Representatives meet and work. It’s also a pretty amazing structure.

The United States Supreme Court

• Take this tour and see where the highest court in our country is located.
• Hear oral arguments and read transcripts of cases that the Supreme Court Justices have ruled on.
• Check out their main site to learn all about the Supreme Court .

The Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is essentially our national library. One of its major functions is to serve as a resource for the United States Congress. Our representatives use it as a research library. With well over 170 million items, it’s the largest library in the world and contains some pretty cool treasures.

The National Archives

• While “visiting” the National Archives , you’ll have access to important documents, records, and photos. It’s where you’ll find the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
• There are also helpful activities and tools you can use to teach civics or American history in your homeschool .
• They also have a helpful YouTube channel .

Take a Virtual Field Trip to Washington’s Monuments and Memorials

Washington is home to a number of monuments and memorials. These famous landmarks are inspiring and definitely worth viewing.

Washington Monument

The Washington Monument was built in honor of George Washington. This famous obelisk is located right in the middle of the National Mall . At 155 feet, it’s the world’s largest stone structure.

Lincoln Memorial

Just past the 36 stone columns, inside the Lincoln Memorial , is the 19-foot statue of Abraham Lincoln. Etched in stone on the walls are two of his famous speeches – the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address.

Jefferson Memorial

On the Potomac River Tidal Basin, the Jefferson Memorial houses the 19-foot statue of Thomas Jefferson. This memorial features a domed roof and contains carved excerpts from the Declaration of Independence.

Vietnam War Memorial

The Vietnam War Memorial honors those who fought, lost their lives and were missing in action during the Vietnam war. It consists of a statue, the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, and the famously moving Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. It’s an incredibly powerful war memorial.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Erected to honor those who fought and died during the Korean War, the Korean War Veterans Memorial is a beautiful monument. It consists of large walls and a pool of remembrance. Etched onto the walls are images of troops traveling by sea, land, and air. Soldiers representing the various armed forces stand in the center.

WWII Memorial

• The WWII Memorial was the first national memorial built to honor the 16 million U.S. military who served in the war, the 400,000+ soldiers who died, and everyone who supported the war effort. This open memorial has 56 granite columns that represent national unity.
• You’ll find a comprehensive teacher’s manual that includes activities, projects, and information to help you teach your tween about WWII .
• There’s also an arts and culture tour of this and the other war memorials .

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Carved in his likeness, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial was built to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and his incredible life, legacy, and struggle for freedom and equality for all. Engraved throughout the memorial are his own powerful words.

Here are even more online resources you can use to study his life and legacy.

American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial

The American Disabled Veterans Memorial is the first national memorial to honor veterans who are living with permanent disabilities due to their service. Soldiers tell their story on the glass panels through their words and images. You can take a 360-degree tour here .

Navy Memorial

The Navy Memorial includes a beautiful memorial plaza and interactive visitor’s center that all honor those men and women who served in the Sea Services.

The Smithsonian

While many people think that the Smithsonian is one museum in D.C., the Smithsonian Institution is actually a huge complex that includes a wide variety of museums, research centers, and educational opportunities.

Below, you’ll find some of the most popular locations that are perfect for older kids.

The  Smithsonian Institution Building or “the Castle”  is home to the Smithsonian Visitor Center.

The National Zoological Park

The National Zoo is one of the most famous zoos in the country. It is home to over 2,000 animals, one of the most popular being the panda. On their website, they have a bunch of wildlife and conservation activities you can do at home. Plus, some of the animals have their own webcams, so you can see them whenever you’d like.

• Giant Panda Cam
• Cheetah Cub Cam
• Elephant Cam
• Naked Mole-rat Cam
• Black-footed Ferret Cam

National Air & Space Museum

• One of the most popular museums is the Air & Space Museum . This is where you’ll find everything related to space, aviation, and exploration.
• They have amazing exhibits you can view online.
• You can also use their great activities and learning guides in your science lesson plans .

National Museum of Natural History

• A favorite of ours is definitely the Natural History Museum . This museum houses a massive collection of taxidermied animals, animal skeletons, mummies, and gems.
• They have a bunch of virtual tours , interactive webcasts , and other teaching resources you can use in your homeschool.
• Tour the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden .

National Gallery of Art

• With over 150,000 works of art, the National Gallery of Art is an impressive museum. You can view much of the collection online, including sculptures, drawings, and photographs along with some very famous paintings.
• They have a number of wonderful lessons and activities you can use as part of your art lessons for tween s .

National Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum wholly dedicated to the lives of African Americans by preserving and sharing their history and culture. It houses over 36,000 artifacts split into a wide variety of categories.

National Museum of American History

• With over 1.8 million items in their collection, the American History Museum is an enormous museum. It’s dedicated to preserving all kinds of artifacts from our American life.
• The eclectic exhibition is fun to peruse and includes things like the original Star-Spangled Banner, Abraham Lincoln’s top hat, Dorthy’s ruby slippers, Julia Child’s kitchen, and the gowns of the First Ladies.
• There are a ton of items to view online and they also have a bunch of learning resources you can use at home.

National Museum of the American Indian

• The National Museum of the American Indian honors Native Americans, their culture, and their heritage. It houses one of the largest collections of Native artifacts.
• They have an impressive number of online exhibits and instructional resources that will help your teen learn more about Native Americans and their important stories and history.

National Portrait Gallery

• The National Portrait Gallery houses the portraits of famous individuals who have helped shaped our country. It is also home to the complete collection of presidential portraits.
• View over 3,800 works of art from home , including the First Ladies, Portraits of African Americans, our American Origins, and more.
• Take a look at their distance learning tools and resources they offer that you can use in your home school.
• Interact with the museum through online programs and workshops .

Smithsonian American Art Museum

• The Museum of American Art is the first national American Art collection. It spans our entire history and is dedicated to the preservation, collection, and exhibition of American art. It contains a wide variety of mediums from both past and present.
• Visit the museum at home with their virtual tour .
• The museum offers quite a few teacher guides and resources you can use at home with your kids.

Smithsonian National Museum of African Art

• National Museum of African Art is the premier national museum dedicated to the preservation, collection, and exhibition of African art. Their impressive collection spans decades and is dedicated to celebrating modern artists.
• They also have quite a few activities and workshops you can do at home to interact with the museum.

Smithsonian National Postal Museum

• From stamps to the history of the Postal Service, the National Postal Museum is full of information related to our nation’s postal history from Colonial times to the present. Stamps have honored every part of our world, innovations, leaders, art, and more. Everyone can learn something from our postal stamps, both past, and present.
• There are a number of virtual exhibitions you can explore.
• Use their free educational resources to help your tween learn more about stamps and the postal service .

Smithsonian Gardens

The Smithsonian Gardens cover over 180 acres of natural plants and fauna and is dedicated to immersing people in the beauty and importance of horticulture.

National Mall

• The majority of these amazing museums are found on the National Mall , some of the most famous acres in Washington.
• You can view the mall in real-time through this webcam .
• See panoramic views of the National Mall .
• While you’re learning about the National Mall, download this Junior Ranger Activity Booklet to make your lessons more interactive. You won’t be able to do all the activities virtually. There are plenty you can add to your lesson plans.

Other Museums in Washington D.C. That Have Virtual Tours

Aside from the Smithsonian, there are some amazing and unique museums in Washington that you should tour from home.

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

• In my opinion, no museum is more moving than the Holocaust Museum . It is full of personal tales from those who were witness to this horrible period of history, propaganda used to sway views, personal artifacts, and even piles of things taken from the Jews as they traveled to the concentration camps.
• View their online exhibitions about WWII, the Holocaust, and other genocides from around the world.
• Utilize their online tools to teach your tweens about the holocaust .

National Museum of Women in the Arts

• The National Museum of Women in the Arts is the only extensive museum of its kind, dedicated to promoting women through various art mediums.
• You can use these See for Yourself cards to tour and interact with their collection.
• They also offer curriculum and resource guides you can use to teach your older kids about women’s contributions to art , spanning decades.

National Geographic Museum

• The National Geographic Society and Museum champions the fields of science, exploration, and storytelling.
• It has quite a few of its past events available online and an amazing virtual tour of its Jane Goodall exhibit .
• This site offers a ton of student resources you can use in your homeschool. From student experiences to classroom resources, you’ll find plenty to use in your geography lesson plans .

National Guard Educational Foundation Museum

Take a tour of the National Guard Museum and learn about the history of the American National Guard.

International Spy Museum

Check out the world of espionage and intelligence through virtual workshops and learning tools at the International Spy Museum .

National Building Museum

If your tween is interested in architecture, check out the  National Building Museum . You can see many items from its collection, plus use their teaching resources to help your kids learn about engineering and architecture.

Virtual Tours of Washington DC Historic Sites

Spend some time checking out these interesting tours of some of D.C.’s historic sites.

Frederick Douglass Home

Tour the Washington home of Frederick Douglass , that’s now a National Historic Site.

Botanic Garden

Take a look at the oldest Botanic Garden in our country and see why George Washington thought it was important for Washington DC to have a place like this to promote plants and educate the public about their benefits.

Ford’s Theatre

As part of your study on Abraham Lincoln, take a tour of Ford’s Theatre and see where President Lincoln was assassinated. Use their resources to teach your tween about Abraham Lincoln’s life, death, and legacy .

Embassy Row

Take an Embassy Row Tour . There’s also an alphabetical listing of the more than 170 foreign embassies you can use to jump directly to a country’s specific embassy page.

The National Cathedral

The National Cathedral is a beautiful church, inspired by 14th Century English Gothic architecture. You can virtually tour some of the interior and exterior of this remarkable gem. One of our favorites was the gallery showing some of the most unique gargoyles sitting atop the cathedral.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts has a digital stage where you can watch certain previous performances.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing

See how paper money is made at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing . Their site will walk you through how money gets designed, printed, cut, sorted, and inspected for defects.

Arlington National Cemetery

Located just outside the city, no study of Washington, DC is complete without learning about the Arlington National Cemetery . Explore the hallowed grounds at home and check out their education program to learn more about the importance of this memorial as well as the men and women who are buried here.

As I said, there are a ton of things in Washington DC that you can see and do all from the comfort of your home. Add some of these sites to your history lesson plans to engage your tween.

Best Resources to Use During Your Virtual Field Trip to Washington DC

• Ben’s Guide to the U.S. Government  will give you the tools and activities you need to teach your tween about our government and how it works. 
• With this book, teens can learn 1,000 Facts About the White House .
• The History Channel walks you through the Great Monuments of Washington D.C. on this DVD.
• Work together to build this 1,000 piece jigsaw puzzle highlighting the famous landmarks in Washington DC .
• Even though you’re not visiting in person, this laminated map, featuring Washington’s Historical Sites will help you feel like you’re really there.
• Challenge your tween with this US Capitol 3D Puzzle .
• This DVD will take your family on a tour of Washington, DC , specifically for kids.
• Part informational, part activity book, this resource will help you expand your lessons on Washington, DC .
• Use this Secret Washington D.C. guide to learn even more about this great town.

More Virtual Field Trips for Teens

• Learn all about virtual field trips for middle school .
• Tour all kinds of famous landmarks and cool sites in New York City .
• Choose one of these educational virtual field trips . This list includes locations to learn about art, history, animals, nature, and famous sites from around the globe.
• See the beauty of our national parks from the comfort of home.
• Take a virtual tour of the Alamo and then add some of the suggested activities and resources to your history lessons.

Are you excited to take a virtual field trip to Washington, DC? What’s going to be your first stop?

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Join visitors from all over the world for an annual festival celebrating culture and history. Learn all about the flowering cherry trees, become a Bloomin' Junior Ranger, and much more! From this page, you can walk or boat the Tidal Basin with 360° views, join park ranger programs, and find many other virtual ways to explore Washington, DC's grandest springtime tradition! Virtually visit the National Cherry Blossom Festival with our partner, too, and watch performances from their National Cherry Blossom Festival stage .

Become a Bloomin' Junior Ranger and explore educational content all about cherry trees.

Virtually explore the Tidal Basin and the nearby monuments from a paddle boat or by foot with these 360-degree images.

Watch the blooming of the cherry trees along the Tidal Basin from a webcam hosted by our partner, the Trust for the National Mall.

Take a virtual stroll through a photo gallery with these images celebrating the springtime blooming of cherry trees.

Follow the Bloom on Social Media

Follow the National Mall and Memorial Parks social media channels leading up to and during the bloom using @NationalMallNPS on Facebook , Twitter , and Instagram . Follow the National Cherry Blossom Festival on Instagram and Twitter at @CherryBlossFest and on Facebook at @CherryBlossomFestival .

Last updated: January 9, 2023

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Join us for a monumental trip to washington, d.c..

For many students, a trip to Washington, D.C. is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that opens their eyes to an exciting world beyond their classrooms. Discovery Education and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden welcome students to a behind-the-scenes Virtual Field Trip to experience the history and beauty of our nation’s capital.

Designed for students in grades 4-8, this action-packed tour features remarkable special guests and give viewers an inside look at six landmark locations:

• The White House
• The U.S. Capitol Building
• The Supreme Court
• The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
• Arlington National Cemetery and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum

Featuring Inspiring Special Guests

Dr. jill biden.

First Lady of the United States of America

The Honorable Jane L. Campbell

Luke mccloud, secretary deb haaland, yolanda king, dr. allison finkelstein, staff sergeant evan mcintosh, dr. jennifer lavasseur.

The City of U.S. Virtual Field Trip is made possible through the generous support of Comcast Community Impact and their commitment to connecting communities and inspiring learning wherever learning happens.

The City of U.S. Virtual Field Trip

Join students from across the country for this special event! Register today and visit this page on May 26 at 1:00 PM ET to watch the live premiere.

Register Now

Having trouble viewing? You can also view this video on Vimeo or YouTube .

Resources for Educators, Students, & Families

We’ve curated a variety of resources and content to help engage your students, including:

• The City of U.S. Educator Companion Guide
• The City of U.S. Afterschool Guide
• The City of U.S. Family Guide

If you have Discovery Education, you can also find these additional new resources in service:

• Portrait of Washington, D.C. Channel
• Washington, D.C. (Grades 3-5) Student Activity Board
• Washington D.C. (Grades 6-8) Student Activity Board

Share On Social Media

Use these fun postcards to tell others about your Virtual Field Trip to Washington, D.C.! Simply click on the button below to download the images, then click the tweet button below and add an image to the pre-populated social post.

I virtually visited Washington, D.C. today with @DiscoveryEd ! Watch the City of U.S. Virtual Field Trip, supported by @Comcast Community Impact: bit.ly/3w90Pdq #CelebrateWithDE

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To get a feel for what you might see when you come visit the U.S. Botanic Garden, we encourage you to take our virtual tour. You’ll get a peek at our Conservatory , gated outdoor gardens and Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens , but the plant displays and exhibits are likely to be different each time you come.

Find lots more ways you can connect with the Garden from home at www.USBG.gov/AtHome !

Virtual Tour

• Jump into a virtual tour in full screen

We've worked with Google Street View to gather 360-degree imagery throughout the Garden -- both in the outdoor gardens and also inside the Conservatory! A few proposed starting points are embedded below. You can interact with them to look around and move in any direction. Every garden room throughout the Garden can be explored! Also, if you make the image full screen, you'll see a map in the bottom left that will show in blue all the pathways through the Garden where you can virtually visit. Enjoy exploring!

​Proposed virtual tour starting points: Outdoor Gardens, Rose Garden:

Conservatory Interior, Tropics House:

Outdoor Gardens, Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens:

• Explore the Garden through stories about our plants (phone or web versions)

Video Tours

• Explore a video tour series of the 2020 Orchid Show (Part 1 of the playlist below See all videos by clicking the video's top right corner or click here to see the full playlist .)

• Tour the Garden with Deputy Executive Director Dr. Susan Pell and learn about plant morphology. (Part 1 of the playlist below. See all videos by clicking the video's top right corner or click here to see the full playlist .)

Explore the Garden through historic photos

• Explore photos of the Garden through 200 years

See daily photos and videos on our Facebook

• See videos and photos of what's in bloom now on the Garden's Facebook page and Instagram channel

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The White House 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW Washington, DC 20500

Welcome to the White   House

We invite you to put yourself in the center of living history and experience the White House through a virtual tour.

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Tours and Facilities

More than 1,600 employees work at six United States Mint facilities:

• Philadelphia, PA  – Production Facility
• San Francisco, CA  – Production Facility
• Denver, CO  – Production Facility
• West Point, NY  – Production Facility
• Fort Knox, KY  – Bullion Depository
• Washington, DC – Headquarters

U.S. Mint Virtual Tours App

Download the virtual tour extension activity (PDF) with bingo cards suitable for multiple age levels.

In-Person Tours

The Mint offers free in-person tours of the Philadelphia and Denver facilities, which cover the present state of coin manufacturing and the history of the Mint. Visitors learn about the craftsmanship required at all stages of the minting process, from the original designs and sculptures to the actual striking of the coins.

Sales Counters: Where to Buy Our Coins

You can buy our coins online 24 hours a day, but genuine Mint products are also sold at several locations around the country:

• Coin store at headquarters in Washington, DC. Current hours: 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. Closed federal holidays.
• Gift shop at the facility in Philadelphia, PA
• Gift shop at the facility in Denver, CO

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• Mint History
• Privacy Policy
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© United States Mint All Rights Reserved.

Washington, DC (Grades K-5)

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Even the youngest of students will appreciate the treasures, history, and beauty that their nation’s capital has to offer. Explore the architecture and artifacts that make Washington fascinating for all to see.

Video length: 24:29 minutes.

Watch Full Video*

*authorized members

National Standards for this video

State standards, learning resources with this video*.

Quiz – PDF

Quiz – Online

If I Went to Washington, DC

Interview A Veteran

Video Breakdown for Discussion

Visiting the Smithsonian

Draw A Scene – Washington: K-5

Universal Resources

National Standards

*Links are active on Full Video page.

Video Memberships

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• Post-trip quiz + resources for 1 video
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Teacher + Class Membership

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• All quizzes + learning resources
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Schoolwide Membership

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• Up to 500 students – $350/year
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Classroom Ideas 

Washington, d.c..

National Treasures

Choose a national treasure to research and have students share what they found out about it.  

If I Went to Washington, DC...

Students create a list/powerpoint of   their top five notable sites that they would like to visit and explain why.

Have students print out a map of Washington, DC and identify where the sites in the video are located.

The Smithsonian

Students will research one significant object on display at the Smithsonian, writing a report on its history and significance.

Honor Those Who Serve

Discuss ways on how we as citizens can honor those that served or currently serving in the military, e.g.send a box of items with a thank you note to a student’s parent or family member that is currently serving overseas.

Cloze Practice

A cloze piece has full sentences used in the virtual field trip with blanks where students can write in the information that is missing. This task requires close listening to the trip in order to complete it.

Landmark Sites

Have each student choose an interesting site and make a replica of it as well as a paragraph written to explain why that site was chosen.  

Create a diorama of Washington, DC’s landmarks. Students could also just focus on the famous buildings in the video.

Have students interview a veteran and ask them about his/her experiences while  being in the military. If you have a local VA Home nearby, contact them to see if there is anything that your students can do to help.

American Wars

Students will learn about the different war memorials in Washington, D.C. Ask them to choose one war to research and write a report on.

Art and Social Studies

Draw a scene from the video you just watched.

Play Travel Agent!

Ask students to write a travel itinerary for visitors to Washington, D.C. Depending on the amount of time you want to devote to this project and the age and interests of the students, you could make this quite an involved project, involving lots of research and finding images. Work could be presented in a variety of different ways, including possibly a PowerPoint presentation.

Washington D.C. Crossword Puzzle Race

Assign students a crossword puzzle on Washington, D.C. that tests the knowledge they have gained from the video. Make this a race, giving a prize related to Washington to the student who correctly completes the crossword puzzle first.

Create Quizzes

Students create a quiz based on the information presented for their peers. This can be used as a review for a test, or jigsaw class activity where students are responsible for teaching other students assigned topics.

Choose A President

Students can choose a president to do a research presentation to discuss president’s background history, what he was known for, interesting facts, etc.

Running the Government

Visit your local city hall and/or state capital to find out more information about how the city and state governments are similar to the federal government. Find out how they create new laws. Discuss opportunities in which older students can become directly involved in their state and federal government.

Build A Landmark

Use various craft materials to build a model of one of Washington, DC’s landmarks. Discuss how a model is a smaller version of a large structure.

Discussion Topics

Have students talk about the five areas: honoring past presidents, honoring those that have served in the military, Washington as the nation’s government, Washington’s national treasures, and interesting sites. Ask them which was most interesting to them and have them tell you why.

Natural vs. Manmade

Explore the concepts of natural wonders vs. manmade structures. Research how various Washington, DC landmarks were created.

Classroom Ideas for ALL Videos

Here are dozens and dozens of ideas that you can use in your classroom along with our videos!

Topics Covered In This Video

Washington – location & formation

Washington Monument

Lincoln Memorial

Jefferson Memorial

Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial

Arlington National Cemetery

Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers

U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial

Korean War Memorial

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

World War II Memorial

White House

Supreme Court building

Capitol Building

National Archives & Historical Documents

James Smithson & The Smithsonian Institution

National Museum of Natural History

National Air and Space Museum

National Museum of American History

National Mall

FBI Building

Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Videos in this Series

Washington, DC (Grades 6-9)

Related videos.

Grade 3 - How Government Helps Our Communities

Grade 2 - Our Government At Work

Grade 1 - Let's Learn About The Government

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Washington-DC Virtual Tours - Momentum 360 Virtual Tours in Washington-DC

At Momentum Virtual tours, we specialize in 360 virtual tours, so your customers can be there in person at your business space without ever leaving your home.

Benefits of 360 Virtual Tours in Washington DC for your business

Lead generation is the first benefit of our services, but it’s not the only one. Here are some other benefits of this effective content marketing plan.

Boost Engagement with Hi-Tech Gears

We use the latest 360° technology to create interactive Virtual tours in Washington DC

of your location. Simply upload your content, select your language, and we’ll do the rest!. We create a highly advanced tour for your audience. They enjoy every moment of it and share it with their friends and family circle. You keep your customers engaged through our virtual tour services in Washington DC.

Highly Realistic Tour for Your Audience

Your customers will see it like they’re there. Virtual tours are the best way to give your potential customers a better understanding of what your business is all about. You can take them on a tour of your facility, show them the best features of your product, and even give them a look at the surrounding area.

Boost in Brand Recognition

You’ll be rewarded with increased brand awareness and an increased conversion rate when you use our services. We offer quality 360 virtual tours that are affordable and easy to use so that you can focus on more important things in your business. Your customers will have a delightful experience with your virtual tours in Washington DC. They will enjoy looking around without leaving their comfortable space.

Give Customers Right Info

We offer 360 virtual tours in Washington to allow your customers to see what you have to offer in a way that’s never been done before. We provide virtual tours in all kinds of formats and for businesses. Virtual tours are the best way to show your property and allow potential buyers to see it before they buy. With our 360-degree technology, we can offer you a range of services that will make your property shine.

Why Choose Momentum Virtual Tours in Washington DC for Your Business?

You might need some reasons to consider our virtual tour services. We offer you five good reasons to prefer us over other virtual tour companies in Washington DC if that’s the case.

Professional virtual tours

We offer a wide range of services, from virtual tours to 360 video production, so you can get the best experience possible – all at an affordable price.

Customizable Tours

Want to show off your business but don’t know where to start? No worries! We’ll work with you to create a customized tour that showcases your best features!

Customer Service

We’re proud to say that we’ve won multiple deals and an extensive network for our customer service excellence. We’re always looking for ways to make your experience better.

All Kinds of Services

Our team of experts offers a range of services to meet all your needs. From basic tours to fully immersive, we have you covered. We provide services for any type of business – from restaurants to medical practices; we’ve got you covered!

Rewarding Experience

We know how important it is to make your clients happy and satisfied. That’s why we offer a rewarding experience with every purchase.

Let your customers be in the moment with our virtual tour services in Washington DC. Call us now and book your next business tour.

Virtual Tours in Washington DC

Momentum 360 was founded in Philadelphia but we have properties all over the continent. There is nothing more frustrating than setting your expectations high, only to be let down once you’re on location. Virtual tours in Washington DC  should be easy to come by, quality and cost-effective tours are our main priorities for all clients.  We are now open and active serving the Washington DC region with virtual tours and property marketing. So, we are here to serve YOU.

Now being launched in Washington DC , Momentum 360 hopes to expand our footprint and help as many businesses and realtors as possible. Our Virtual Tours tons of case studies with a large portfolio , but we are looking to expand in Washington DC .  Most of our clients include realtors, commercial real estate, small business, retail and institutions. Momentum 360 offers the best price and package for Virtual Tours in Washington DC . Call or contact our team at Momentum 360 or Momentum Digital if you need help with growing your business or marketing your property!

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Momentum 360 Washington DC

Serving the Washington DC   region! Email: [email protected] Number : (202) 915-1315

Contact us for a Free Quote!

Featured Property Tours in Washington DC

Check out some of our favorite and most prominent marketing projects and virtual tours in washington dc.

Momentum 360 was started in 2017 and has since produced over 300 local projects ranging from over 100 residential houses for sale, to commercial buildings, to schools, and much more. We specialize in representing physical properties in the virtual world.

We are new to the Washington DC   region and would love to showcase your property below!

Residential Property Tour in Washington DC

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Coming soon! Please see some work from one of our other cities below!

Commercial Property Tour in Washington DC

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The 30 best things to do in D.C. this weekend and next week

European embassies open their doors to the public, Eurovision takes over bars and the Smithsonian’s IlluminAsia festival returns.

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month is celebrated with a three-day festival at the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Asian Art, a family day at the Library of Congress, and new beers and a lion dance at Lost Generation Brewing. Following on last weekend’s Around the World Embassy Tour, the embassies of the European Union open their doors to visitors this weekend for cultural activities including music, beer and wine tastings, fashion shows, dog shows, and the Smurfs. Drive-in movie fans can welcome outdoor films — and “Grease” — back to Union Market. It’s also a big weekend for lovers of kitschy music, thanks to the Eurovision Song Contest and costume-friendly viewing parties. Spring garden tours and markets take place across the area on Saturday, while local breweries are banding together to help one of their own start making beer again.

Thursday, May 9

JxJ Jewish Film and Music Festival

Held at locations around the DMV (including the DCJCC in Washington, Landmark’s Bethesda Row Cinema and Cinema Arts Theatre in Fairfax), the annual festival returns to showcase music and films by Jewish area artists. The screenings include dozens of genres, and the music portion of the festival showcases international acts like the Maccabeats, Polyphony Quartet and Mister G. Through May 19. Prices and locations vary.

AAPI Beer Collab Launch Party at Lost Generation

For the second year in a row, Eckington’s Lost Generation Brewing marks Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by releasing a beer that benefits charity. Except this time, it’s releasing two beers. One, Asian Glow, is a fruited sour with dragon fruit, mango and litchi, brewed in collaboration with Falls Church’s High Side and Richmond’s the Answer, that benefits Act to Change, an organization fighting the bullying of AAPI youth. The other is Briefly Gorgeous, a saison made in collaboration with Bluejacket, which uses 50Hertz’s Sichuan peppercorns, yuzu and Buddha’s hand. Both beers debut at a party featuring a lion dance, plus food by Bun’d Up and Dine With Claudine. 6 to 9 p.m. Free .

Willow Smith at Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library

Downtown D.C.’s massive Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial Library hosts Gen Z superstar Willow Smith for a teen-focused evening event. As the daughter of Hollywood royalty — her parents are Jada Pinkett Smith and Will Smith — Willow has already explored career paths from music to acting to performance art. She’s also written a book, a sci-fi fantasy called “Black Shield Maiden” with author Jess Hendel. In partnership with local bookshop Mahogany Books, Willow Smith discusses her debut novel. 7 p.m. $32; ticket includes signed copy of the book .

Eurovision Semifinal Watch Party at Wunder Garten

The finals of Eurovision — the Europe-wide pop music competition known for turning both costumes and stage performances up to 11 — take place Saturday. But first, judges need to select the tunes that will feature in the grand final. Sixteen countries are competing for 10 places on Thursday, including Switzerland’s Nemo and Italy’s Angelina Mango, both among the favorites to win. Wunder Garten is opening early to show the performances live from Sweden. 3 p.m. Free .

Home by Midnight at Jimmy Valentine’s

Do you ever wish you could go out to a bar, dance to great music and still get to bed at a reasonable hour? Home by Midnight hears you. This new night at Jimmy Valentine’s promises the music you’d expect at a late-night rave, but with a DJ who starts at 9 p.m. Perfect for the older raver — or the old at heart. Doors at 8 p.m., music at 9. Free .

‘Mummy in the Closet: Evita’s Return’ at GALA Hispanic Theatre

Eva Perón stars from beyond the grave in GALA Hispanic Theatre’s “Mummy in the Closet: Evita’s Return,” a macabre musical comedy based on the true journey of the Argentine political icon’s embalmed body after her death in 1952. This is a new production of the show, which was a hit for GALA during its world premiere there in 2009. At the time , The Post called it a “breathtakingly freakish mix of black comedy, serious historical musing, disciplined vaudeville and sheer ghoulishness.” For this revival, choreographer Valeria Cossu has set dance moves to the rhythms of tango, waltz and salsa. Through June 9: Thursdays through Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. $25-$48; $20 opening night. In Spanish with English subtitles .

Audrey Hepburn film series at the Miracle Theatre

In honor of film icon Audrey Hepburn’s May 4 birthday, Barracks Row’s movie house the Miracle Theatre will run a spate of Audrey flicks throughout the month. If you’ve only seen “Breakfast at Tiffany’s,” go deeper into the perennially stylish actress’s repertoire with four other classics that also star classic Hollywood leading men like Gregory Peck, Cary Grant, Humphrey Bogart and Fred Astaire. The series begins Thursday with “Roman Holiday” and continues with “Charade” (May 17), “Sabrina” (May 24) and “Funny Face” (May 30). All screenings begin at 7 p.m. $8 .

Friday, May 10

IlluminAsia at the National Museum of Asian Art

The Smithsonian’s IlluminAsia festival returns to the National Museum of Asian Art this weekend, celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with three days of culture and entertainment. The party starts Friday with Asia After Dark, a wellness-focused evening that includes journaling, sound baths, and a zero-proof and low-ABV bar (5 to 9 p.m.). Saturday brings curator-led tours of the museum’s exhibits; panel discussions about identity, healing and the arts; empowerment workshops; and an outdoor market with vendors and food trucks (noon to 6:30 p.m.). Electronic artist Madame Gandhi headlines an evening concert (6:30 p.m.; registration suggested). The event wraps Sunday with a Mother’s Day theme, featuring craft making and family activities, as well as a guided sound bath (noon to 3 p.m.). Through Sunday. Free .

‘Grease’ at the Union Market Drive-In

Drive-in movies became a trend during the pandemic, but Union Market has been hosting outdoor screenings in its parking lot since 2013. This year’s series, which features films one Friday a month, kicks off with the singalong classic “Grease.” Drivers can reserve a space, ease the seat back and listen to the sound through their FM radio, while the carless masses are free to walk up to Neal Place, the closed street in front of the market, with blankets and camp stools. Either way, get there early and pick up a meal from one of the vendors inside. Parking lot opens at 7:30 p.m.; film begins at 8:45. $20 per car; free for pedestrians .

Animania at Union Stage

It might be another 11 months until Awesome Con (D.C.’s take on Comic-Con) returns, but in the meantime, fans can try out their next cosplay in a more intimate venue. Costumes aren’t required but are strongly encouraged. Dance to anime hits and try your hand at a variety of video games. 10 p.m. $20.

Firehouse Fridays at Hill Country

Firehouse Fridays, which has been offering country line dancing lessons and a dance party at the Vienna Moose Lodge, is making the leap to Penn Quarter. Both levels of Hill Country Barbecue will be open for two-stepping, line dances and country swing. The evening starts with a beginner-level country swing lesson at 8:30 p.m., followed by dancing on both floors from 9:30 until midnight. 8:30 p.m. $15 at the door .

Saturday, May 11

E.U. Open House

The members of the European Union open the doors to their embassies on Saturday, following last weekend’s Around the World Embassy Tour. Drop into 21 embassies, as well as the European Union’s office and “partner venue” Ukraine House, for live music, food and drinks, mini-language classes, and more cultural activities. Each country puts its own spin on the day: La Maison Française, which brings Germany and France together, is highlighting the Paris Olympics; Poland honors Maria Skłodowska-Curie (better known as Marie Curie) with “chemical workshops and molecular cuisine”; the Czech Republic celebrates with beer, a dog show and a performance by award-winning singer Kaczi; and the Netherlands and Belgium team up for free waffles and beer tastings with the Smurfs. Lines can be long, so wear comfortable shoes. Early arrival is suggested if you’re looking for free snacks and swag. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission; some embassies sell food and drinks .

Eurovision Grand Final viewing parties

Speaking of Europe, Saturday is also the finals of the Eurovision Song Contest, the annual pop music competition known for over-the-top performances, cheesy tunes and an abundance of glitter. The event is a spectacle in Europe — this year is hosted by 2023 champion Sweden — but it’s popular in D.C., too. (So popular, in fact, that the official viewing party at the House of Sweden has a wait list.) DC9 is hosting its annual celebration, with a live broadcast beginning at 3 p.m. Join in with Eurovision bingo, where sample squares include “fire (real or video)” and “Vikings,” as well as trivia and drink specials. After the winner has been crowned, it’s time for a Eurovision dance party featuring songs from past winners, including Abba, Céline Dion, Katrina and the Waves, and, hopefully, Finnish masked metal gods Lordi. There’s a $100 prize for the best Eurovision-inspired costume. ( Free tickets available at dc9.club . ) Adams Morgan’s Duplex Diner is showing the contest live with “ drink specials all day .” ( 3 to 6 p.m. Free. ) Over on H Street, the Queen Vic pub is hoping to put the U.K.’s traditional misery behind them — Mae Muller finished 25th out of 26 in 2023 — at a party with bingo, singalong tunes and a costume contest. ( 3 p.m. thequeenvicdc.com . Free. )

Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month Family Day at the Library of Congress

The Library of Congress welcomes all ages to its Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebration. Families can learn about the different experiences of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders documented in the library’s collections, then draw or write about their own family’s history. ( 10:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Free; timed entry pass required, but events are drop-in. ) Artist and educator Jeffrey Yoo Warren, whose work has created virtual reconstructions of five historic Chinese American and Korean American communities, leads a mask-making workshop for 6- to 12-year-olds, before letting them explore portals to the 3D reconstructions. ( 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free; timed ticket required. ) Finally, actor and activist George Takei discusses his new book, “My Lost Freedom: A Japanese American World War II Story,” in the Coolidge Auditorium. ( 2 p.m. Free; reservations required. )

Save Hellbender Beer Fest

Hellbender Brewing had its boiler break down in late April, and without a way to heat water and boil wort, the Fort Totten brewery can’t make beer. To help offset the high costs of a replacement, the local brewing community is rallying around Hellbender. Head to the taproom for a party featuring draft beers from at least 15 breweries, including Other Half, Ocelot and the Brewer’s Art, available in full or half pours; food from Beef Space BBQ and El Jefe Woodfired Pizza; and music by DJ TLH. 1 p.m. Free admission .

That’s So Vintage Market at Union Market

The hugely popular market returns to Union Market’s Dock 5 with over 30 of the area’s vintage sellers. Vendors include viral curators the Disco Loft and Libby & My (the full list of vendors is available on the market’s website ). Next door, experiential pop-up shop Playhaus is offering workshops on sewing and embroidering vintage clothes, which you can add on to your ticket price. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. $24 for 11 a.m. entrance; $8 for 1 p.m. entrance or later.

Ivy City Makers Market and Bar Hop

This pop-up celebration of local makers is really multiple markets in one, with artists, crafters and vintage vendors spread among Atlas Brew Works , Other Half Brewing , Throw Social , and Don Ciccio and Figli ’s tasting room. It’s a shopping excursion-cum-bar crawl that might introduce you to a new favorite beverage as well as a new favorite outfit. 1 to 6 p.m. Free .

Del Ray Artisans Spring Art Market

This curated show in a Del Ray park features three dozen artists — potters, painters, photographers, sculptors, jewelers, fiber artists and more — selected by the Del Ray Artisans collective. Browse for Mother’s Day gifts or just for yourself, while kids can be entertained and have their faces painted. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free .

Diggin’ Thru the Crates at Dock 5

Diggin’ Thru the Crates is a celebration of hip-hop culture with a twist: Members of the audience get to flip through stacks of vinyl records to pick the song they want to hear, while DJs Alizay and B-Sharp work those selections into a playlist on the fly. The result is magic, and often surprising. Art by Maurice James Jr., Shay Will and the Jay Stewart Collection features at the Union Market event space, while Young Guru is the host. 9 p.m. $20 .

Capitol Hill Arts Workshop Family Day

The Capitol Hill Arts Workshop has been “building community through the arts” for more than 50 years, and if you’ve never experienced this local treasure, Saturday is a good time to explore. Family Day features activities for all ages on the arts center’s front lawn, including 3D scanning and printing, creating collage sculptures, and drawing “fill in the blank” comic strips. Noon to 2 p.m. Free .

Capitol Hill House and Garden Tour

Run by the Capitol Hill Restoration Society, this tour is a great chance to peek inside those multimillion-dollar rowhouses that grace the streets of Capitol Hill. Attendees will see nine homes and gardens and three semipublic buildings, all within the historic district, and grab refreshments from local vendors at the Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, where an architectural tour is offered both days. Saturday from 4 to 7 p.m.; Sunday from 1 to 5 p.m. $40-$50.

Del Ray House & Garden Tour

Step inside the bungalows and rowhouses of Del Ray, a walkable Alexandria enclave with its own bustling main street and blocks packed with dog parks and playgrounds. The Del Ray House & Garden Tour returns for the first year since 2018, and this year’s self-guided tour will include 11 properties showcasing manicured gardens, new-construction homes and small-scale accessory dwelling units (ADUs). Spend an entire day here with a VIP ticket, which sends you to Mount Vernon Avenue after the tour for an evening yoga class at Mind the Mat Pilates & Yoga, followed by a drink from Hi/Fi TexMex BBQ. 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. $45-$75 .

Dacha Spring Beer Fest

Think of Frühlingsfest as the warm-weather cousin of Oktoberfest: Instead of drinking beer outdoors in the cool fall air, people in Munich come together to drink beer and celebrate the return of flowers and longer days. Dacha’s inaugural spring festival at its Navy Yard location — inspired by Frühlingsfest — features unlimited pours of seasonal beers from at least 18 breweries, spanning European (Weihenstephaner, Duvel, St. Bernardus), American (Allagash, Boulevard) and regional (Denizens, Väsen, Pen Druid) selections. VIP tickets include early admission, a pint glass and other perks. Saturday and Sunday from 2 to 6 p.m. $50-$90; two day tickets $90-$170 .

Sunday, May 12

Mother’s Day ideas

Need a last-minute idea for Sunday? We can’t guarantee restaurant reservations are still available, but we do stand by our ideas for things to do from a few weeks back, including two all-you-can-eat brunch shows with the swinging Eric Byrd Trio at the Hamilton, a few trips on the historic carousel and a tour of galleries at Glen Echo Park, or a waterfront stroll in Alexandria.

Momedy Kumite at the DC Improv

Instead of the usual card or flowers, maybe Mom needs a good laugh for Mother’s Day. The DC Improv has revamped its signature stand-up tournament Comedy Kumite just for the holiday: All of the participating comics in Momedy Kumite are mothers themselves, and they’re competing for the unofficial title of Funniest Mom in D.C. The tourney consists of back-to-back sets from two comedians, followed by an audience vote to see who advances to the next round and, ultimately, the victor of the final showdown. 6 p.m. $20-$35 .

Monday, May 13

Hot Water Music at the Howard Theatre

The members of Hot Water Music seem as surprised as anyone that they’re celebrating their 30th anniversary on the road as they prepare to release their 10th album, “Vows.” The Gainesville, Fla.-founded act, fronted by singer-songwriter-guitarists Chuck Ragan and Chris Wollard, can still whip up punk tunes with heart-on-sleeve emotion and anthemic hooks. The band promises to “dust off some oldies” on tour; perhaps it will play 1997 favorite “Turnstile” — the namesake of the current generation’s biggest hardcore band. Joining Hot Water Music is Quicksand, a New York band whose renewed existence — albeit after a long hiatus — is even more surprising. Quicksand’s metallic approach to post-hardcore laid the blueprint for countless punk and alt-metal bands alike. 8 p.m. $35-$60 .

Tuesday, May 14

The Dog and Cat Film Festivals at Arlington Drafthouse

After the annual New York Dog Film Festival and its feline-focused counterpart, the two-hour programs of new short films featuring pets — animated, documentary and narrative features from around the world — the festival screening travels to cities across the country. Arlington Drafthouse is hosting the two festivals back to back (dog people, go on Tuesday, and cat people, go on Wednesday ). Proceeds benefit the Animal Welfare League of Arlington. Note that admission is 21 and over unless accompanied by a parent. 6 p.m. $38.

Wednesday, May 15

NMWA Nights at the National Museum of Women in the Arts

The new exhibition “ New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024 ” is the inspiration for the National Museum of Women in the Arts’ latest after-hours party, with a costume contest inspired by exhibition themes, such as “creative” and “sustainable.” After capturing your lewk in the photo booth, try hands-on art-making activities; dance to Les the DJ’s mix of Asian, Asian American, and Pacific Islander musicians; and watch a performance by Pretty Boi Drag. Two cocktails from locals Please Bring Chips are included in the ticket price. Be warned: This is the last NMWA Nights until September. 5:30 to 8 p.m. $22-25 .

Kathleen Hanna at the Lincoln Theatre

Bikini Kill and Le Tigre punk frontwoman Kathleen Hanna embodies the title of her memoir “Rebel Girl.” One of leaders of the ’90s “riot grrrl” feminist movement — the book takes its title from Bikini Kill’s iconic song — Hanna is embarking on a 10-stop nationwide book tour to discuss her boundary-breaking life in music. See her at the Lincoln Theatre in conversation with Mira Jacob, where hopefully she’ll share her memories of the District’s punk scene, since the members of Bikini Kill spent a climactic year in D.C. and originally wrote “Rebel Girl” in Mount Pleasant. 7 p.m. $66-$81; ticket includes a book.

Gaby Moreno at the Hamilton Live

Guatemalan singer, songwriter and producer Gaby Moreno’s work in the last decade and a half has culminated in recent months in back-to-back public-facing accomplishments. In February, she both performed at the Grammys and won the award for best Latin pop album for “X Mí (Vol. 1).” The seven-song record, released in 2023, revisits favorites from previous albums, set only to Moreno’s acoustic guitar. Also in February, Moreno released “Dusk,” her soulful ninth studio album. 8 p.m. $15-$25.

22 Free Things to Do in Washington DC

W ashington DC is great because there are so many free things to do! Find out the best free things to do in Washington DC so you don’t have to spend a cent.

I’ve visited DC so many times, and I’ve found so many things to do for free! The city is filled with free museums and attractions , idyllic parks, and free festivals. You’ll have no trouble finding things to do in Washington DC for free.

Don’t break the bank on your visit to Washington DC! Check out these top free things to do in DC .

Fun Free Things to Do in Washington DC

1. united states capitol.

A visit to the U.S. Capitol Building is a must while visiting Washington DC . And it’s free to tour!

Public tours of the United States Capitol are available to everyone, including non-U.S. citizens. The free tour covers the Crypt, Rotunda, National Statuary Hall, and Senate and House Galleries.

2. White House

The White House has been the official residency of the president of the United States since John Adams in 1800.

It is free to tour the White House, but you’ll have to submit a tour request months in advance through your representative if you’re a U.S. citizen, or through your embassy in DC if you’re an international visitor.

3. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

The Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History explore the history of our planet from billions of years ago to life on earth today.

This free DC museum has an amazing collection of fossils, precious gems, and unique artifacts that you won’t want to miss!

4. Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Smithsonian’s National Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the United States and it’s home to over 1,500 animals.

At this free zoo, you can find bears, monkeys, big cats, elephants, and more. Their popular exhibits include the Elephant Trails, Great Ape House, Cheetah Conservation Station, and the American Trail.

5. National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art has a collection of 141,000 works of art from around the Western world.

This free museum has art from the Middle Ages to the present, including a huge collection of Italian artwork (and the only painting by Leonardo da Vinci in the Americas).

6. National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden

As a bonus, the Sculpture Garden at the National Gallery of Art adjacent to the West Building is also free to visit.

The free garden exhibits several works from the museum’s contemporary sculpture collection and is a treasure trove of botanicals and sculptures.

7. National Archives Museum

In the free National Archives Museum , you’ll be able to see important documents from the founding of the United States: the Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights, and the Constitution.

They also have other documents and records that shaped America’s history, including a copy of Magna Carta , presidential papers, and rotating exhibits.

8. Smithsonian Castle

The Smithsonian Castle (also called the Smithsonian Institution Building) is the visitor center for the Smithsonian museums. It’s the Smithsonian’s first and oldest building.

You can stop here for information on visiting the other Smithsonian museums, to see their America’s Treasure Chest display with items from each of the Smithsonian museums on display, to see the tomb of James Smithson, and to tour the castle. All of which is free!

9. National Mall

The National Mall is the long park space that runs between the U.S. Capitol, the Washington Monument, the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, and the White House.

Essentially a huge park, you’re free to stroll the sidewalks, plus the Smithsonian’s free museums line the sides, and there are free events throughout the year that you can attend on the National Mall.

10. Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery is the largest military cemetery in the country. It serves as the final resting place for more than 400,000 military veterans and their families.

Here, you’ll find the famous Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and its popular Changing of the Guard ceremony. You can also see the graves of President John F. Kennedy, President William Howard Taft, the seven Space Shuttle Challenger astronauts, the Tuskegee Airmen, Ruth Bader Ginsburg, and many more important people.

The cemetery is free to visit and explore on your own. They do offer a tram tour that costs extra, if you don’t want to walk the entire cemetery. The tram is free for those with disabilities.

11. Pentagon

The Pentagon is the headquarters for the Department of Defense. It is one of the largest office buildings in the world, covering 6.5 million square feet.

You can tour the long hallways, each of which are filled with information and artifacts about the country’s military history. You can also visit the small indoor memorial and chapel for the September 11 attacks.

It is free to tour the Pentagon, but tours are only available to U.S. citizens, and you must make an reservation well in advance of your visit.

12. Thomas Jefferson Memorial

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial immortalizes Thomas Jefferson, the 3rd president of the U.S. and the author of the Declaration of Independence.

This monument on the Tidal Basin has a 19-foot-tall bronze statue of Jefferson, surrounded by many of his famous quotes. In the spring, the memorial is surrounded by DC’s famous cherry blossoms .

13. WWII Memorial

The National WWII Memorial in the middle of the National Mall honors the 16 million Americans who served during World War II.

This is a serene memorial with 56 granite columns and a plaza fountain.

14. Washington Monument

The Washington Monument is a 555-foot-tall marble obelisk that commemorates George Washington, a Founding Father and the first president of the United States.

And you can ride to the top of the monument for a great view of the city.

Technically, the Washington Monument is free to visit. But to get a ticket, you’ll need to reserve online in advance, which costs a $1 service fee. There are a limited number of walk-up tickets available, which are completely free and without service fee, but these sell out very quickly.

15. Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is dedicated to Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States.

The incredible marble monument holds a 19-foot-tall statue of Lincoln as he gazes out over the National Mall’s Reflecting Pool.

16. Cherry Blossoms

Every spring, thousands of cherry blossoms cover Washington DC . You’ll find the beautiful pink and white blooms all over the city, most notably at the Tidal Basin.

The city also holds a free 4-week-long National Cherry Blossom Festival with arts and cultural events celebrating the cherry tree.

This is one of the best times to visit Washington DC!

17. Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is the man-made reservoir on the western part of the National Mall. It serves as a pretty backdrop for some of DC’s best monuments.

Walk around the 2-mile Tidal Basin Loop to see the Jefferson Memorial, Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the FDR Memorial, the George Mason Memorial, the John Paul Jones Memorial, the Floral Library, the Japanese Pagoda, the Japanese Lantern, and site of the First Cherry Tree Planting.

18. Georgetown

Georgetown is a historic neighborhood of Washington DC that is full of cobblestone streets, Federal-style architecture, and old-town charm.

Enjoy wandering the cobbled streets of Georgetown where you can do some window shopping, see Georgetown University, and see the oldest standing building in DC.

19. The Wharf

The Wharf is a waterfront district in Washington DC that runs along the Washington Channel. This area has tons of shops, restaurants, rooftop bars , entertainment, hotels, and apartments.

Enjoy a waterfront stroll along the Wharf, window shopping at boutique stores, and a visit to the country’s oldest continually operating open-air fish market.

20. Chinatown

Chinatown is a small historic neighborhood of DC that is home to tons of great restaurants , the iconic Friendship Archway, and the Capitol One Arena.

The intersection of H Street at 7th Street is where you’ll find the beautiful Friendship Archway, a traditional Chinese gate donated to DC by sister city Beijing in 1968.

21. Willard Hotel

The Willard InterContinental Washington DC Hotel , (also called the Willard Hotel) is a historic hotel where DC’s political elite have been hanging out for over a century.

Every president since Franklin Pierce has either attended an event or gotten a room at this elegant, turn-of-the-century hotel. Ulysses S. Grant enjoyed drinking and smoking in the lobby, and hotel lore says that this is the origin of the term “lobbying”.

The hotel is filled with history, and even if you don’t book a room there, you can still pop in and take a look at the elaborate lobby, decked out in gold, marble, and classy wood finishes.

22. SW DC Prehistoric Pocket Park

The SW DC Prehistoric Pocket Park is a tiny park of toy dinosaurs that someone made in their front garden. You’ll find it at 602 7th St SW, Washington, DC 20024 .

This is a fun little free piece of art to find on your walk between the Wharf and the L’Enfant Metro station!

Free Things to Do in DC Map

Ready to explore these fun free things to do in Washington DC? Use the map below to plan out your trip!

I hope you have a great time exploring DC on a budget!

Save on Washington DC’s Top Attractions

Want to save big on Washington DC’s top attractions ? With the Washington DC Sightseeing Pass , you can save up to 60% on the cost of entrance tickets to museums, tours, and attractions all around the city!

Visit bucket list attractions, enjoy top tours, and discover hidden gems handpicked by local experts. With one price and one pass, you have everything you need right on your phone. This is the perfect pass for visiting Washington DC!

Get your Washington DC Sightseeing Pass here.

Top Washington DC Tours

• DC Monuments and Memorials Night Tour
• Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour
• Arlington National Cemetery Walking Tour & Changing of the Guards
• Washington DC “See the City” Guided Sightseeing Segway Tour

Where to Stay in Washington DC

Find the perfect place to rest your head on your visit to Washington DC, from the top rated accommodations to unique stays you can’t get anywhere else.

• Where We Stayed: Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center or the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf
• Top Hotel: The Hay-Adams
• Great Value: Phoenix Park Hotel
• Unique Stay: Unique DC Row House Near Historic H Street

Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center

We enjoyed our stay at the Hampton Inn Washington-Downtown-Convention Center when attending an event at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

This hotel has a great location. It’s just on the edge of Chinatown and is within easy walking distance to the National Mall and all the tourist hot spots. There are plenty of restaurant options and nightlife nearby.

Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf

We love the location of the Canopy by Hilton Washington DC The Wharf , though the hotel’s customer service could use some work.

The Wharf is a great spot to be for beautiful waterfront views and lots of dining and nightlife . It’s also only a 10-15 minute walk from two different Metro stations, and it’s really easy to get to and from Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport.

More Things to Do in Washington DC

Explore even more of the nation’s capital! Check out these other top tips for visiting Washington DC.

• 25+ Best Things to Do in Washington DC
• Where to See Cherry Blossoms in Washington DC
• Your Guide to Rooftop Bars at The Wharf, Washington DC
• Visiting the Smithsonian Castle in Washington DC
• Where to Eat in Chinatown, Washington DC
• Taking a Day Trip to Alexandria, Virginia from Washington DC
• Taking a Day Trip to Baltimore, Maryland from Washington DC

Ready to visit Washington DC? Plan your trip with these tips.

• Book Your Flight: Find the cheapest flights using Skyscanner , my favorite flight search engine.
• Find Accommodation: You can find top hotels in Washington DC using Hotels.com.
• Start Packing: Check out my packing list resources so you’re prepared for your trip.
• Explore DC in a New Way: Enjoy a Mystery Picnic in Washington DC to discover more of the city.

What are your favorite free things to do in Washington DC? Let me know in the comments!

The post 22 Free Things to Do in Washington DC appeared first on Paige Minds The Gap .

Real Estate

Summer means time for annual maintenance.

‘Gonna turn this house around somehow’

It’s almost summer! The last days of school are here, people are getting ready to wear their swimsuits again, and suddenly BBQ sauce is front and center on all the aisles at the grocery store. What does that mean for all the homeowners out there? It means a bit of yearly maintenance.  

Summer maintenance checklist:

• Check gutters and clean downspouts. The summer storms can knock a lot of branches and leaves around.
• Have the HVAC serviced if you haven’t already.  A good rule of thumb is after winter, and again after summer. 
• It’s time to trim back bushes and trees away from power lines. 
• Wash windows and replace the window screens.
• Reverse the ceiling fans so that it pushes the cool air downward.  You want them to spin counter-clockwise.
• Clean the garbage disposal and the dishwasher.  You can add a cup or two of vinegar to the dishwasher and run a low wash cycle.  
• Clean baseboards.
• Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – replace batteries as needed.
• Check outdoor hoses and appliance hoses – refrigerators, dishwashers, etc. for any leaks or cracks.  
• Freshen up your yard, porch or deck spaces. A quick trip to a hardware or a garden center can help you liven up any outdoor space and get it ready for entertaining.  Don’t forget the citronella candles and bug spray.
• Power wash decks and driveways.
• Clean and scrub any grills. Check any hoses and connections for gas grills.  
• Get a dehumidifier for any musty basement spaces, clean it up and plug it in.
• Check seals on washers and dryers, and wipe down with an all-purpose cleaner.

Spending a little time and energy on your home – one of the biggest investments you will make, can help you to improve its resale value and optimize the enjoyment of your purchase.  Spring and summer can also be time to tackle those larger projects such as cleaning out a garage, a closet, or a spare bedroom.  

As someone who just moved after 10 years in the same building last year, I can speak to the level of freedom one feels after taking old appliances to Goodwill, finally selling that table or those chairs online, and hauling out bags and bags of trash. Do yourself a favor and clean it all up. You will be so happy you did when it’s finally done, and it can give you a sense of new beginnings.  

How might you use that extra space after you clean it up? Who knows, there’s only one way to find out. Need a little motivation to get all these projects done?  Don’t forget to find your favorite summer playlist, or even put on a Gay Pride Playlist. You could even recreate your favorite scene from “Saltburn” and dance around naked in your newly cleaned home when you are done. 

Joseph Hudson is a referral agent with Metro Referrals. Reach him at [email protected] or 703-587-0597.

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Row homes, English basements and more options abound

Great question! If you are looking at real estate as an investment – two great property types to look at would be a smaller row home and also a row home that has an English basement. Some property types that you might want to stay away from would be a condo or a co-op unit. Let’s take a look at why these properties would be good and bad:

Smaller Row Home

Row homes are a great investment for many reasons. You can often find smaller two-bedroom row homes in the same price point as those of a two-bedroom condo, which might be seen as a “condo alternative” and afford you much more freedom. There are no condo associations or home owner associations that you must belong to so this keeps your monthly carrying costs on the lower end and you are allowed to make more independent decisions. For example, if you wanted to paint the house purple – in most cases you would be allowed to. If you wanted to change the color of the front door or put shutters on the windows – you would be allowed to. This is usually not the case with condo or co-ops. 

When it comes to the rental market – similarly renters like the independence of privacy in a home and not being among many other people. The luxury of perhaps direct off-street parking, outdoor space or even just more space at the same rental amount that a two bedroom condo rent would be – this is more appealing for a renter and would likely rent faster than that of a condo or co-op. For this model – you would obviously need to move out before you could take advantage of the investment of this type of real estate.

A row home with an English basement 

With this type of real estate you can immediately begin receiving income after your purchase. You can occupy the upstairs of the row home, which is usually the larger portion of the home, or you could even occupy the basement, which is usually the 1-2 bedroom smaller portion of the home and receive rental income for the other half of the home. This can be in the way of a yearly traditional tenant or in the manner of short-term rentals (check with the most recent STR policies within the District). With this model, you stand to make even more of a return on your investment upon your move out of the home as you can rent the entire home or you can rent the top unit and basement unit independently to gross a larger amount of income. It is important to note that it is never advised to purchase a row home unless you can fully afford it WITHOUT the idea of accepting additional rental income to offset the mortgage cost.

These two options listed above are the most typical found within the District because they are fee simple, standalone pieces of real estate and are not within a condo association, HOA, or a co-op with governing documents that tell you what you can and cannot do which makes row homes an attractive type of real estate for a long-term hold.

When looking at types of properties that you might want to stay away from – condos and co-ops come to mind and I say this with a caveat. You can surely purchase these types of real estate but must first understand the in’s and out’s of their governing documents. Condos are bound by the governing condominium documents which will tell you for how long your lease must be, a minimum of lease days, you can only rent after you have lived in the residence for a number of years, likely will stipulate no transient housing – which means no short term rentals. It could also quite possibly say that you can only rent for a specific amount of time and lastly it will also stipulate that only a specific amount of people can rent at one time in order to stay below the regulated lending requirements set forth by Fannie and Freddie Mac. Similarly, Co-ops are even more strict – they can tell you that you are just not able to rent at all or if you can you can only do so for a specific number of years and then you are required to sell or return back to the unit as your primary residence. 

As you can see, when it comes to condos and co-ops there are more specific and stringent bylaws that owners must agree to and follow that limit or even outlaw your ability to rent your piece of real estate. When you purchase a row home – there are no regulations on what you can and cannot do regarding rentals (outside of the short-term regulations within the District).

When looking for a piece of real estate in the District it is important to think through how long you could possibly wish to hold onto this property and what the future holds. If you think this is a long-term hold then you might consider a row home option – again, you can find a smaller two-bedroom row home that amounts to that price similar to a two-bedroom condo and would afford you a more flexible lifestyle. It’s important to work with a real estate agent to ensure that they guide you in this process and help answer any questions you might have. It’s also always advised to speak directly to a short-term rental specialist should you wish to go down that route as they will truly understand the in’s and out’s of that marketplace.

All in all, there are specific property types that work for everyone and within the District we have a plethora of options for everyone.

Justin Noble is a Realtor with Sotheby’s International Realty licensed in D.C., Maryland, and Delaware for your DMV and Delaware beach needs. Specializing in first-time homebuyers, development and new construction as well as estate sales, Justin provides white glove service at every price point. Reach him at 202-503-4243,  [email protected] or BurnsandNoble.com.

Adapting to changing consumer preferences in spring real estate

In today’s dynamic real estate market, the spring season brings not only blooming flowers but also a surge of activity as buyers and sellers alike prepare to make their moves. However, in recent years, there’s been a notable shift in how consumers prefer to explore potential homes: the rise of virtual tours. 

For the LGBTQ community, these virtual experiences offer more than just convenience; they provide accessibility, safety, and inclusivity in the home buying process. 

Gone are the days of spending weekends driving from one open house to another – unless that’s your thing of course, only to find that the property doesn’t quite match expectations. With virtual tours, you can explore every corner of a home from the comfort of your own space – find something interesting? Schedule a showing with any LGBTQ Realtor at GayRealEstate.com.

This is particularly significant for LGBTQ individuals, who may face unique challenges or concerns when attending in-person showings. Whether it’s the ability to discreetly view properties without fear of discrimination or the convenience of touring homes located in LGBTQ-friendly neighborhoods across the country, virtual tours offer a sense of empowerment and control in the home buying process.

Moreover, virtual tours cater to the diverse needs of the LGBTQ community. For couples or families with busy schedules or those living in different cities or states, these digital walkthroughs provide a convenient way to view properties together without the need for extensive travel. Additionally, for individuals who may be exploring their gender identity or transitioning, virtual tours offer a low-pressure environment to explore potential living spaces without the added stress of in-person interactions.

At GayRealEstate.com , we understand the importance of adapting to changing consumer preferences and leveraging technology to better serve our community. That’s why our agents offer an extensive selection of virtual tours for LGBTQ individuals and allies alike – visit our website, choose an agent and within minutes you’ll have access to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS) via their website.

From cozy condominiums in bustling urban centers to sprawling estates in picturesque suburbs, virtual tours showcase a wide range of properties tailored to diverse tastes and lifestyles.

In addition to virtual tours, GayRealEstate.com provides comprehensive resources and support to guide LGBTQ buyers and sellers through every step of the real estate journey. Our network of LGBTQ-friendly agents is committed to providing personalized service, advocacy, and representation to ensure that all individuals feel respected, valued, and empowered throughout the process. Plus, we are happy to provide a free relocation kit to any city in the USA or Canada if you are a home buyer.

As we embrace the spring season and all the opportunities it brings in the real estate market, let’s also celebrate the power of virtual tours to revolutionize the way we find and experience our future homes. Whether you’re searching for your first apartment, forever home, or investment property, GayRealEstate.com is here to help you navigate the exciting world of real estate with confidence, pride, and inclusivity.

Jeff Hammerberg is founding CEO of Hammerberg & Associates, Inc. Reach him at [email protected] .

Affordable upgrades to attract and keep tenants happy

In the District of Columbia, the rental market tends to open up significantly during the springtime for several reasons. First, spring brings about a sense of renewal and change, prompting many individuals and families to seek new living arrangements or embark on relocations. Additionally, the warmer weather and longer daylight hours make it more conducive for people to explore housing options, attend viewings, and make decisions about moving. Furthermore, spring often coincides with the end of academic terms, leading to an influx of students and young professionals entering the rental market. 

Landlords and property managers also tend to schedule lease renewals or list new vacancies during this time, capitalizing on the increased demand and ensuring a steady turnover of tenants. In the competitive world of rental properties, attracting and retaining quality tenants can be challenging. However, with some strategic upgrades, property owners can significantly enhance their units’ appeal without breaking the bank. From enhancing curb appeal to interior upgrades, here are some practical and cost-effective ideas to make your rental property stand out in the market.

Curb appeal

First impressions matter, and curb appeal plays a crucial role in attracting potential tenants. Simple enhancements like freshening up the exterior paint, adding potted plants or flowers, and ensuring a well-maintained lawn can instantly elevate the property’s appearance. Installing outdoor lighting not only adds charm but also enhances safety and security.

Interior upgrades

Upgrade the kitchen and bathroom fixtures to modern, energy-efficient options. Consider replacing outdated appliances with newer models, which not only appeal to tenants but also contribute to energy savings. Fresh paint and updated flooring can transform the look of a space without a hefty investment. Additionally, replacing worn-out carpets with hardwood or laminate flooring can make the unit more attractive and easier to maintain.

Enhance storage

Maximize storage options by installing built-in shelves, cabinets, or closet organizers. Tenants appreciate ample storage space to keep their belongings organized, contributing to a clutter-free living environment.

Improve lighting

Brighten up the interiors by adding more lighting fixtures or replacing old bulbs with energy-efficient LED lights. Well-lit spaces appear more inviting and spacious, enhancing the overall ambiance of the rental unit.

Upgrade window treatments

Replace outdated curtains or blinds with modern window treatments that allow natural light to filter in while offering privacy. Opt for neutral colors and versatile styles that appeal to a wide range of tastes.

Focus on security

Invest in security features such as deadbolts, window locks, and a reliable alarm system to ensure the safety of your tenants. Feeling secure in their home is a top priority for renters, and these upgrades can provide meaningful, genuine peace of mind.

Enhance outdoor spaces

If your rental property includes outdoor areas like a patio or balcony, consider sprucing them up with comfortable seating, outdoor rugs, and potted plants. Creating inviting outdoor spaces expands the living area and adds value to the rental property.

As landlords, investing in the enhancement of your rental properties is not merely about improving aesthetics; it’s about investing in the satisfaction and well-being of your tenants, and ultimately, in the success of your investment. By implementing these practical and affordable upgrades, you’re not only increasing the desirability of your units but also demonstrating your commitment to providing a high-quality living experience. 

These efforts translate into higher tenant retention rates, reduced vacancy periods, and ultimately, a healthier bottom line. Moreover, by prioritizing the comfort, safety, and happiness of your tenants, you’re fostering a sense of community and trust that can lead to long-term relationships and positive referrals. So, let’s embark on this journey of transformation together, turning rental properties into cherished homes and landlords into valued partners in creating exceptional living spaces.

Scott Bloom is owner and Senior Property Manager of Columbia Property Management. For more information and resources, visit ColumbiaPM.com .

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