Tourism Guide

Some ideas of places to go when you're out of ideas for "things to do," but are visited by your--

• Aunt who binges Downton Abbey

  • Decorative Arts- See one of the largest decorative art collections at the Hillwood or at the estate of Marsha Washington's granddaughter at Tudor Place.

  • Flea Markets- The Eastern Market and the Georgetown Flea Market are open year-around.

  • Macarons & Tea- Book a table for afternoon tea at the St. Regis or snag some macarons at Ladurée downtown.

  • Quilts- Explore one of the largest quilt collections at Daughters of the American Revolution Museum, similar check out the expansive Textile Museum.

• Family who doesn't enjoy walking

  • Art Museums- Art Museums typically have benches scattered throughout the galleries. For quieter and more accessible options consider the Hirshorn and Asian Art Museum. The National Portrait Gallery and National Gallery of Art both have wonderful cafes and courtyards.

  • Watch D.C. Sports- Some stadiums are more accessible than other, but a great activity nontheless.

  • The Big Bus- Cheesy, but it is an option.

  • Food Halls- These are great places to lounge for a period of time and will cater to anyone's preferences. The Roost or Union Market are great for people watching.

• NYC Friend who likes to complain D.C. is not NYC

  • Rooftop Bar- Enjoy a rooftop bar and take in the views of D.C. such as Wild Days, Crimson, Brixton, Anchovy Social, or Lady Bird.

  • Emeralds in the City- Listen to the African Drum Circle at Malcom X Park. Or, for more nature consider taking a trail in Rock Creek Park.

  • See Live Music- I personally like smaller intimate shows like at Madams Organ, Black Cat, JoJo's, or Songbyrd. Or the open mic nights at Busboys and Poets.

  • Row Homes- Take them around some of the unique neighborhoods of D.C. -- the residential side they don't see often portrayed in the media.

• Friends with Little Children

  • Kid-Friendly Museums- Some museums have the best kid-friendly exhibits including the National Building Museum, Air & Space Museum, American Indian Museum, or the Postal Museum.

  • Public Restrooms- Certain neighborhoods have more than others--I suggest Adams Morgan, the Wharf, or Eastern Market for a balance of playgrounds, bars, and restrooms.

  • The Library- DC Library often has programming on weekends for children!

  • The Zoo- Had to put this in here.

• Patriotic Uncle

  • Church & State- Attend mass at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle (which has been attended by SCOTUS, POTUS, etc) or the National Cathedral (which has a plaque for each state! Also President Wilson is buried there).

  • Tomb of the Unknown Soldier- Visit the Arlington National Cemetery and see the graves of President Kennedy, RBG, and the Tomb of the Unknown.

  • National Archives- Besides the American History Museum, visit the Archives to see the Constitution or Declaration of Independence. Or, see President Jefferson's library at the Library of Congress.

  • War Memorials- There are many of them, patriotic people enjoy them.

• The "Turkey Trot" Family

  • A Hike in the City- Besides Rock Creek, there are many places to "hike" such as Theodore Roosevelt Island (which has a beautiful promenade), the Arboretum (which has the original U.S. Capitol pillars), or if it's lotus season (or any season) Kenilworth Gardens.

  • Do the Activities- Take a shopping break and go bowling at Pinstripes or ice skating at Georgetown. Or rent a kayak from Boating in D.C. around the monuments.

  • Do More Activities- Go axe throwing at Bad Axe, Kick Axe, or Kraken Axes. Or play boozy mini golf at Swinger's or Puttery. Or go on a ghost tour or mural tour of D.C.