I’m a DC local. I live in Md right outside the city so I have to plan my visits just like you. These are all my DC finds that I’ve enjoyed and always recommend outside the norm of museum hoping
Sections
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Things to Do
Restaurants
Hotels worth staying at
Things to Do
Fun activities in DC area from a local
The Secret Door experience is so much fun! Whether you have younger kids or you are a kid at heart this is worth seeing
O Museum in the Mansion
Any Candlelight concert is worth going to! The ones held inside the church adds a breathtaking architectural experience
🎻 Candlelight Concerts in Washington DC Tickets 2026 | Fever
Such a great way to see the city! It’s fun and you can get an idea of where else you might want to go. Fun girls trip
Tea Around Town® Washington, DC | Tea Bus Washington DC by TopView® | Afternoon Tea Washington DC
The most gorgeous high tea experience. Even if you just had lunch here you would enjoy the beautiful architecture
Such a fun museum and non traditional great for all ages
Museum of Illusions Washington D.C.
This has it all and a great way to taste DC
Union Market District - The best place in dc for shopping, dining, arts and entertainment
My favorite park! Watch aircraft land and fly directly over your head. You will love this experience. Bring a chair and picnic
Gravelly Point Park | Arlington Convention & Visitors Service
A great way to see the city and monuments and enjoy being in the water. Easy to access in Georgetown but tickets in advance
Washington DC Party Yacht, Party Boat & Pirate Ship
A fun way to see monument’s a tiki boat makes everything more fun
Washington DC Tiki Boat Cruises - Potomac Tiki Club
This is a beautiful place to visit for a walk, or more intense hike there are 2 locations the MD side or VA side. If going to Md side enjoy lunch at Old Ebbit Grill nearby
Great Falls Park (U.S. National Park Service)
This is a local gem. If you have never experienced aircraft taking off right over your head this is a must. Bring chairs and watch the incredible aircraft just above your head
Gravelly Point Park | Watch Aircraft Land
Restaurants
Great place for dinner. I love sitting at the bar. Located near high end shopping
Founding Farmers Washington DC | Best DC Restaurant in Foggy Bottom
A waterfront restaurant. Very popular and great place to have dinner then walk along waterfront you can visit other popular bars along the way
Sequoia
One of my favorite restaurants. Traditional French cuisine and great people watching. Sit outside
Le Diplomate | French Brasserie in Washington, D.C.
This is worth doing the building is gorgeous and even if you just had regular lunch here you would love it
Willard High Tea Experience
Hotels worth staying at
Such a beautiful boutique style hotel. Centrally located in Georgetown
The Graham - Luxury Boutique Hotel in Georgetown D.C.
Great hotel and has a good location. Love the ambiance of restaurant and bar area
Ritz-Carlton Residences Washington DC | RitzDC.com
Beautiful hotel located near lots of moments and White House. Roof top bar is incredible
