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27 Unforgettable Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

A handpicked collection of exceptional places, chosen for quality, experience and lasting memories.

Discover the best things to do in Washington, D.C. with Place46. Explore iconic landmarks, historic sites, museums, cultural attractions and unique places selected based on popularity and visitor ratings.

27 Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

Best Places to Visit in Washington, D.C.

27 handpicked places selected by Place46

Distances and walking times are approximate estimates based on location data and may vary depending on the actual route.

National Mall
Place46 Score: 118.6 - (4.8★ - 139,9K reviews)

Explore the National Mall in Washington D.C., an iconic urban park home to famous monuments, memorials, and museums. Discover American history and heritage.

2.1 km away - 8 min by public transport from city center
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Place46 Score: 109.9 - (4.8★ - 58,6K reviews)

Explore the wonders of the natural world at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. Discover dinosaurs, gems, and human origins.

2.0 km away - 24 min walk from city center
Lincoln Memorial
Place46 Score: 109.1 - (4.8★ - 54,3K reviews)

Visit the Lincoln Memorial, an iconic landmark honoring Abraham Lincoln in Washington D.C. Explore its history, architecture, and breathtaking views.

2.2 km away - 8 min by public transport from city center
World War II Memorial
Place46 Score: 105.9 - (4.9★ - 25,6K reviews)

Honor heroes at the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. Explore this iconic national monument, a poignant tribute to service and sacrifice.

2.0 km away - 24 min walk from city center
National Museum of African American History and Culture
Place46 Score: 103.4 - (4.8★ - 30,9K reviews)

Discover the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, DC. Explore compelling exhibits on history, culture, and community.

1.8 km away - 22 min walk from city center
National Gallery of Art
Place46 Score: 99.4 - (4.8★ - 20,6K reviews)

Explore the National Gallery of Art in Washington DC, home to a vast collection of European and American masterpieces. Free admission to world-class art.

2.3 km away - 8 min by public transport from city center
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Place46 Score: 98.8 - (4.6★ - 46,8K reviews)

Discover diverse wildlife at the Smithsonian National Zoological Park in Washington, DC. Home to over 2,700 animals, it's a must-visit urban oasis.

2.7 km away - 10 min by public transport from city center
Smithsonian National Museum of American History
Place46 Score: 98.2 - (4.7★ - 27,9K reviews)

Explore American history at the Smithsonian National Museum in Washington, DC. Discover iconic artifacts, cultural exhibitions, and compelling stories shaping the USA.

1.8 km away - 23 min walk from city center
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
Place46 Score: 97.7 - (4.8★ - 17,4K reviews)

Visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C. A powerful tribute to Holocaust victims and an educational experience.

2.3 km away - 8 min by public transport from city center
Washington Monument
Place46 Score: 96.9 - (4.7★ - 24,4K reviews)

Visit the Washington Monument, an iconic obelisk honoring George Washington. Enjoy panoramic views of DC from this historic landmark and explore its significance.

1.9 km away - 24 min walk from city center
National Portrait Gallery
Place46 Score: 95.2 - (4.8★ - 13,6K reviews)

Explore the National Portrait Gallery in Washington, DC. Discover iconic portraits of American presidents, artists, and leaders. A must-visit cultural landmark.

1.6 km away - 20 min walk from city center
Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
Place46 Score: 94.8 - (4.9★ - 8,8K reviews)

Visit the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington D.C., a powerful tribute to his legacy of civil rights, peace, and justice. Plan your visit.

2.4 km away - 8 min by public transport from city center
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Place46 Score: 94.2 - (4.8★ - 12,3K reviews)

Visit the iconic Thomas Jefferson Memorial in Washington, DC. Explore neoclassical architecture, reflect on history, and enjoy stunning Tidal Basin views.

2.8 km away - 10 min by public transport from city center
George Washington's Mount Vernon
Place46 Score: 93.3 - (4.7★ - 16,8K reviews)

Explore George Washington's Mount Vernon, a historic estate and plantation. Discover the mansion, gardens, museum, and learn about early American history.

22.5 km away - 76 min by public transport from city center
The Wharf DC
Place46 Score: 92.8 - (4.7★ - 15,9K reviews)

Explore The Wharf DC, a vibrant waterfront destination in Washington, DC. Enjoy diverse dining, live music, unique shops, and scenic Potomac River views.

3.2 km away - 11 min by public transport from city center
Museum of the Bible
Place46 Score: 91.8 - (4.7★ - 14,2K reviews)

Discover the Museum of the Bible in Washington, DC. Explore interactive exhibits, ancient artifacts, and the Bible's impact on history, art, and culture.

3.0 km away - 11 min by public transport from city center
Ford's Theatre
Place46 Score: 86.7 - (4.7★ - 8,4K reviews)

Explore Ford's Theatre, the historic site of Lincoln's assassination in Washington DC. Visit the museum, theatre, and Petersen House for a profound journey into American history.

1.5 km away - 19 min walk from city center
National Archives Museum
Place46 Score: 84.5 - (4.7★ - 6,7K reviews)

Explore the National Archives Museum in Washington, D.C. Home to the U.S. Constitution, Declaration of Independence, and Bill of Rights. A must-visit historic site.

2.0 km away - 7 min by public transport from city center
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Place46 Score: 84.2 - (4.9★ - 3,2K reviews)

Visit the profound Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington D.C. A solemn tribute to service members, featuring the iconic Wall and reflecting pools. Plan your visit.

1.9 km away - 24 min walk from city center
Library of Congress
Place46 Score: 82.5 - (4.8★ - 3,8K reviews)

Discover the awe-inspiring Library of Congress in Washington, DC. Explore its stunning architecture, vast collections, and rich history. A must-visit landmark.

3.5 km away - 12 min by public transport from city center
United States Capitol
Place46 Score: 81.9 - (4.7★ - 5,1K reviews)

Visit the United States Capitol in Washington, DC. Discover the iconic architecture, rich history, and the legislative heart of American democracy.

3.1 km away - 11 min by public transport from city center
The Anthem
Place46 Score: 81.9 - (4.6★ - 7,4K reviews)

Experience world-class live music at The Anthem in Washington DC's vibrant Wharf. A state-of-the-art concert hall for unforgettable shows.

3.1 km away - 11 min by public transport from city center
Smithsonian National Postal Museum
Place46 Score: 78.5 - (4.7★ - 3,6K reviews)

Explore the fascinating world of postal history at the Smithsonian National Postal Museum in Washington, DC. Discover rare stamps, mail transport, and global communication.

2.7 km away - 10 min by public transport from city center
Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool
Place46 Score: 75.9 - (4.7★ - 2,7K reviews)

Discover the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, a famous landmark in Washington, DC. Enjoy stunning views of the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.

2.0 km away - 7 min by public transport from city center
National Museum of Asian Art
Place46 Score: 74.9 - (4.7★ - 2,5K reviews)

Explore the National Museum of Asian Art in Washington DC, home to the Freer Gallery and Arthur M. Sackler Gallery. Discover ancient to contemporary Asian art.

2.2 km away - 8 min by public transport from city center
National Gallery of Art - East Building
Place46 Score: 74.7 - (4.8★ - 1,8K reviews)

Explore modern and contemporary art at the National Gallery of Art's iconic East Building in Washington, DC. Discover masterpieces and striking architecture.

2.5 km away - 9 min by public transport from city center
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Place46 Score: 70 - (4.8★ - 1,1K reviews)

Explore the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site in Washington, D.C. Discover Cedar Hill, the preserved home of the influential abolitionist and statesman.

6.6 km away - 23 min by public transport from city center