Things to do in Washington on the Weekend

Washington, D.C., is a city where history, culture, and entertainment collide, making it a fantastic destination for weekend adventures. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just someone looking to soak in the charm of the nation’s capital, there’s no shortage of activities to fill your days. Let’s dive into some exciting things to do in Washington on the weekend.

Washington Weekend Events

When the weekend comes around, D.C. comes alive. Step Afrika!, is the first professional dance company devoted to stepping, a percussive dance form rooted in African-American culture. Their Magical Musical Holiday Step Show is a must-see family show running until Dec 23, combining rhythm, storytelling, and culture for a family-friendly taste of the holiday spirit.

A Stroll Through the Holiday Market

(Photo credit@CarlineMcfarland/Unsplash)

If you’re there between Nov 22 and Dec 23, the annual holiday market in the Penn Quarter is a must. This bustling market is a DC holiday tradition, with unique gifts, artisanal crafts, and delectable treats. Open until 8 p.m. every day, it’s an ideal night outing after a day spent ogling the city’s sights. The market has a cozy charm that is bound to put anyone in the holiday spirit! 

Washington Weekend Trips

If you want to expand your Washington experience beyond the city, try a weekend journey to nearby gems.

Maryland Avenue SW and Its Treasures

Start on Maryland Avenue SW, the site of some of the Smithsonian museums. The National Museum of American History shines, with artifacts that range from Abraham Lincoln’s top hat to Julia Child’s kitchen. These museums are a great option for a family-friendly outing.

Escape to Nature: Great Falls Park

Great Falls Park: Just a short drive from D.C., Great Falls Park is a nature enthusiast’s paradise. It’s a great place to hike and picnic, and to take in stunning views of the Potomac River surging through rocky cliffs.

Historic Landmarks and Cultural Highlights

A visit to Washington wouldn’t be complete without passing by its roasted-in-stone monuments.

The National Mall

The National Mall, nicknamed “America’s Front Yard,” is another must-see. You can stroll among the Lincoln Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and the soaring Washington Monument on the weekend. They’re Hollywood stars, so take a picture in front of the United States Capitol.

The White House Visitors Center

If you can’t snag tickets to tour the White House itself, the White House Visitor Center is a great second choice. It is filled with interactive exhibits, providing a behind-the-scenes look into America’s presidents’ lives.

Explore the Past in Historic Georgetown

Stroll along Georgetown’s cobblestone streets, one of D.C.’s oldest neighborhoods. Here, you can browse quaint boutiques, linger over a riverside meal, or just soak in the historic atmosphere.

Foodie Adventures in Washington

Street NW Eats

For a nosh on the go, visit Street NW, where a row of food trucks serve a variety of cuisine, from Korean tacos to Ethiopian platters. D.C.’s street food scene is unrivaled, a glimpse into the city’s multicultural heart.

Fine Dining in Penn Quarter

If you’re feeling a little fancier, Penn Quarter has a variety of restaurants to satisfy all tastes. Eat local seafood or have a steak dinner!

Special Experiences to Elevate Your Weekend

The Capitol River Cruise

Going on a Capitol River Cruise is one of the most chill ways to absorb the city. This tour provides wonderful views of D.C.’s waterfront landmarks, from the Jefferson Memorial to the Kennedy Center.

Catch a Show at the Kennedy Center

The Kennedy Center, by the way, isn’t only for seeing. Look for the weekend offerings, which can include everything from Broadway productions to live orchestras.

Washington Weekend Activities for Families

Interactive Museums

The National Museum of American History is going to be interesting to all visitors, including children and their parents. It is fun and educational with great interactive exhibits that can engage everybody and everywhere.

Explore City Parks

The same applies to parks within the District of Columbia including Rock Creek Park that are perfect for families to have outdoor activities. It can be hiked, provides a good place to have a picnic, or even rents paddle boats.

Seasonal Attractions in the Holiday Season

There’s no doubt about it, during the holiday, D.C. does not miss out on anything when it comes to entertaining all ages. From the lights at the National Christmas Tree near the white house to holiday performances at local theatres the city is awash in yuletide fare.

Best Neighborhoods to Explore on a Weekend in Washington

This article will discuss some of the diverse neighborhoods in Washington D.C. and what one can do in each of them. Dupont Circle as a community has many nice cafes, independent bookshops, and art galleries helping to create a vibrant atmosphere. For the nightlife one must go to Adams Morgan; a place with streets filled with bars and international students. Foggy Bottom is perhaps more residential with historic houses and houses old-fashioned row houses and is located near the Kennedy Center. And make sure not to forget the cobblestone streets of Georgetown for a Sunday afternoon, walk, or do some shopping in the rather chic stores.

Unique Shopping Experiences in Washington, D.C.

Contrary to what some may expect when they envision a trip to Washington, there’s more than memorials and galleries: shopping paradises. For instance, do visit Eastern Market, a place that is packed on both Saturdays and Sundays where you are assured of food, unique designers, artists’ works, and fresh groceries among other accessories. Georgetown is the best for finding unique gifts since it houses expensive brands and local stores such as Salt & Sundry. If one wants some serious change then one must visit the Union Market District which has unique POP UP Shops and a food market.

Cultural Festivals and Seasonal Events

Washington, D.C. has a host of festivals during the year. The Smithsonian Folklife Festival showcases global cultures, and the DC Jazz Festival attracts world-class talent. Spring brings the National Cherry Blossom Festival, summer means the National Capitol Barbecue Battle, and winter offers the Magical Musical Holiday Step Show by Step Afrika and the Holiday Market in Penn Quarter. Look also for smaller community events that lend local flavor to your weekend.

Where to Find Live Music in D.C.

There’s no lack of places to hear music in Washington. For big-name acts, check out the legendary 9:30 Club or stop by The Anthem at The Wharf for a bigger concert experience. For jazz and soul, Blues Alley in Georgetown is a must. Looking for something more mellow? Relax with live music, poetry, and good food at Busboys and Poets.

Top Instagram-Worthy Spots in Washington

With stunning photo-worthy places, Washington, D.C. is guaranteed to add some pizzazz to your Instagram scroll. The view of the tidal basin is also beautiful, especially if you visit during cherry blossom season. The Library of Congress has jaw-dropping interiors, and the Washington National Cathedral has architectural beauty of the Gothic variety. The colorful murals that dot the H Street Corridor offer fun backdrops for a modern flair.

Late-Night Activities in Washington

D.C. isn’t an early-sleeping town, especially on weekends. Go on a monument night tour, where landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument glow beneath the stars. The city’s rooftop bars, such as Officina at The Wharf, offer cocktails with a view. For the adventurous: Visit The Wharf’s nightlife scene, where you can find live music and waterfront vibes.

Outdoor Adventures in and Around Washington

Nature lovers can kayak on the Potomac River or bike the scenic Mount Vernon Trail. Miles of hiking paths courses through Rock Creek Park — a national park, but one that almost no one in D.C. seems to even be aware of, and Theodore Roosevelt Island is a tranquil haven of wildlife and memorials. For a birds-eye view, head to the top of the Old Post Office Tower.

Public Transportation Tips for Weekend Visitors

But traveling through Washington is simple with a bit of prep. You will also find an efficient Metro system that covers most attractions. For quick trips, rent a bike via Capital Bikeshare or choose electric scooters. If you’re driving, know that parking can be limited, and consider using parking apps to reserve a spot ahead of time.

Weekend Morning Activities

Start your mornings with a visit to Eastern Market, where fresh produce and artisan goods abound. And for early risers, walking along the National Mall at sunrise provides a long-forgotten sense of awe. Or take a yoga class at the Tidal Basin, amidst nature.

Best Coffee Shops to Start Your Day in D.C.

Washington has plenty of great coffee spots. Begin your day at Compass Coffee, a local favorite with several locations. The Wydown, on 14th Street NW, serves artisanal brews in a snug environment. For something different, head to Tryst in Adams Morgan, where you can enjoy coffee in a café that serves part-time as a community space.

Free Things to Do in Washington on the Weekend

You can explore the city without spending a dime. Go to the Smithsonian Museums, which are free any time, or do a self-guided walking tour of the monuments. The Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage presents free programming daily. Enjoy the serenity at Meridian Hill Park with cascading fountains.

Iconic Monuments to Visit After Dark

There’s just something magical about seeing Washington’s monuments lit up at night. The Lincoln Memorial glows serenely, the Washington Monument towers into the midnight sky. The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial is a peaceful place for reflection, and the Jefferson Memorial is beautifully bathed in light over the Tidal Basin.

Local Breweries and Wineries for Weekend Fun

Craft beer enthusiasts may want to check out places like Bluejacket and Right Proper Brewing Company, which are known for their more agricultural brews. If you are up for venturing out, Northern Virginia has wineries like Stone Tower Winery that offer a weekend getaway.

Weekend Brunch Spots to Try in Washington

Brunch is a D.C. weekend institution. Founding Farmers serves farm-to-table burgers and brunch fare, while nearby Le Diplomate offers a French-inspired menu. For something more casual, Busboys and Poets serve hearty meals in a covered intimate space.

History Buff’s Guide to a Weekend in Washington

Washington is a dream for history lovers. Begin at the National Museum of American History to view everything from The Star-Spangled Banner to the ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz.” Tour Ford’s Theatre, where Abraham Lincoln was killed, and Arlington National Cemetery for a sobering yet inspiring visit.

FAQs

What Are the Best Washington Weekend Events?

Events such as the Magical Musical Holiday Step Show by Step Afrika!, holiday markets, and live performances at the Kennedy Center are just some of the highlights.

What Are the Top Washington Weekend Trips?

For a day trip, escape to Maryland Avenue SW for museum hopping, or go to Great Falls Park for some nature.

Is Washington Family-Friendly on Weekends?

Absolutely! From interactive museum exhibits to open parks and seasonal happenings, the city has a myriad of family-friendly fun.

Hidden Gems to Explore

If you’ve already knocked off the main attractions, here are a few lesser-known places to check out:

National Arboretum: A quiet respite home to lovely gardens and the Capitol Columns.

Eastern Market: Foodies and Art lovers should hit up Eastern Market, a bustling market.

Conclusion

There is an amazing variety of things to do in Washington, D.C., for all interests. Whether you’re brushing up on its deep American history, experiencing a leisurely Capitol River Cruise, or partaking in its boisterous holiday traditions, you’ll find plenty to do. To experience the most of D.C. with small personalized groups, plan your visit with See Sight Tours. And whether you want to visit the must-see sites or the off-the-beaten-path spots, our tours guarantee that you’ll get the most out of your weekend adventure.

There’s a whole world to discover! So put your bags in the air, and let the magic of Washington work its magic!