What are the best things to do in Washington D.C.?

The best things to do in Washington D.C. include: Washington Monument | United States Capitol | National Mall | The White House | Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum. These activities offer a mix of cultural experiences, sightseeing, and entertainment suitable for all types of travelers.

How much do the top attractions in Washington D.C. cost?

United States Capitol:Free | National Mall:Free | The White House:Free | Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum:Free | Capitol Hill:Free

What amenities or facilities can I expect at top attractions in Washington D.C.?

Most attractions in Washington D.C. provide facilities such as visitor centers, guided tours, parking, rest areas, dining options, and accessibility features to ensure a comfortable experience.

How do I book activities and attractions in Washington D.C.?

Choose one of the top things to do in Washington D.C. listed on this curated page by Trip.Best and book directly on Trip.com. You can compare prices, check availability, read verified reviews, and access special packages.

Can I get special packages or deals for attractions in Washington D.C.?

Yes, many attractions offer seasonal promotions, bundled tours, or discounted entry tickets. Visit Trip.com for current deals, member discounts, and exclusive offers.

What are some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Washington D.C.?

Some highly-rated Best Things to Do in Washington D.C. include:Washington Monument:4.5, United States Capitol:4.5, National Mall:4.5, The White House:4.5, Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum:4.6

At what locations in Washington D.C. can Best Things to Do in Washington D.C. be found?

The Best Things to Do in Washington D.C. are mainly located in:Washington Monument:Washington D.C., United States Capitol:Washington D.C., National Mall:Washington D.C., The White House:Washington D.C., Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum:Washington D.C.

2026's Best Things to Do in Washington D.C. – Top Attractions, Must-see Spots, and Guest Favorites

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
Washington Monument
4.5/5
󰺂7.4
Washington D.C..The Mall
2 km from downtown
Highlights:
Panoramic Washington view at 555ft
󱨜Admire the cultural charm of stone tablets gifted by countries from around the world
󱨠Saved by 131 users󱨠275 positive reviews

United States Capitol
4.5/5
󰺂7.2
Washington D.C..Northeast
3.1 km from downtown
Achieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
Highlights:
Book a guided tour to explore the United States' hall of democracy
Take a souvenir photo at the Statue of Liberty
󱨠Saved by 137 users󱨠112 positive reviews

National Mall
4.5/5
󰺂7.1
Washington D.C.
2.2 km from downtown
No. 1 of Night Attractions in Washington D.C.
Highlights:
Capture the monument's reflection from the edge of the reflecting pool.
󱨜Camping by the spaceship overnight
󱨠30% positive reviews
4

The White House
4.5/5
󰺂7.0
Washington D.C..The Mall
1.1 km from downtown
Highlights:
Wave for a photo from the Blue Room balcony
󱨜Experience the charm of the president's office up close
󱨠Saved by 180 users󱨠265 positive reviews
5

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
4.6/5
󰺂6.9
Washington D.C..The Mall
2.6 km from downtown
Featured in 2026 Americas 50 - Family-friendly Attractions
Highlights:
Experience an astronaut's work environment firsthand
󱨜Admire rare exhibits of the Wright brothers' aircraft
󱨠Saved by 124 users󱨠213 positive reviews
6

Capitol Hill
4.7/5
󰺂6.2
Washington D.C..Capitol Hill
4 km from downtown
No. 2 of Night Attractions in Washington D.C.
Highlights:
See all 4 major landmarks from one spot
󱨜Admire the white dome of this Washington D.C. landmark
7

Library of Congress
4.9/5
󰺂6.0
Washington D.C..Capitol Hill
3.4 km from downtown
Highlights:
The luxurious, gilded dome of the main reading room is a breathtaking sight.
󱨜Admire the Renaissance architecture of the Jefferson Building
󱨠29% positive reviews
8

Thomas Jefferson Memorial
4.5/5
󰺂5.7
Washington D.C.
2.9 km from downtown
Highlights:
Admire ancient Roman domed architecture at the Tidal Basin
󱨜Visit the landmark Thomas Jefferson Memorial
9

Lincoln Memorial
4.7/5
󰺂5.7
Washington D.C.
2.3 km from downtown
Achieved a 2-year streak on the annual lists
Highlights:
Read the inscriptions on the walls and take a journey through history.
󱨜Doorless design in the style of an ancient Greek temple
󱨠Saved by 119 users󱨠152 positive reviews
10

Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
4.7/5
󰺂5.7
Washington D.C..The Mall
2 km from downtown
No. 1 of Family-friendly Attractions in Washington D.C.
Highlights:
IMAX theater shows space exploration
󱨜Washington's iconic castle-style landmark
󱨠Saved by 108 users󱨠171 positive reviews

Best things to do in Washington D.C. (2026)