AIRBNB EXPERIENCES
Unique things to do in Washington
Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.
Travel like a local
The United States capital is not only an epicenter of American history. It’s also one for culture which is on display at its restaurants, on U Street, and behind the secret doors of a historic mansion. When it comes to the iconic things to do in Washington, DC, explore with a fresh perspective on a tour of the White House with a former Kennedy staff member; at twilight on e-bikes to see the National Mall; and on running tours to cover more ground. With Airbnb Experiences, locals help you see the city through their eyes with unique activities.
Top-rated activities
Washington DC Night Tour w/Transportation
Experience the heart of Washington, DC with us on a guided 3-hour journey through the National Mall. This dynamic tour seamlessly blends driving and walking to ensure you "SEE IT ALL."
Starting at the Washington Grand Hyatt, our adventure begins right in front of Starbucks. Meet your knowledgeable Tour Guide, board our comfortable van, and set off for the National Mall. With live commentary from your guide, immerse yourself in the stories behind the monuments, memorials, and other captivating attractions that define the National Mall's significance.
Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore several of DC's major attractions for 15 to 25 minutes at each location. Our drop-offs and pickups are strategically situated as close as legally feasible to each site, ensuring convenient access.
As the tour concludes, we return you to the Washington Grand Hyatt. And to cater to your comfort:
- Stay refreshed with complimentary water.
- Keep your phone powered up with our charging equipment, simply inform your driver.
- No need to worry about the weather – rain or shine, we've got you covered with umbrellas.
See the Sites by Segway
You'll arrive 15 minutes to tour time to check-in and be fitted on your Segway. Segways are perfect for city riding and have a handle bar bag and rack so you can store all the essentials - phone, keys, wallet.
After getting set up, you'll meet the rest of your group and go through a 30 min training session to get comfortable before heading out.
Your tour will cover about 5-6 miles in 2 hours, making stops at all of the major monuments and memorials on the National Mall from the Capitol Building to The Lincoln Memorial and around the different Smithsonian Museums. At each stop, you'll hear some history, and unique facts, and perhaps a dark secret or two.
Our tour route will end back at the shop.
Other things to note
No Experience Necessary! We will teach you how to how to ride :)
Private Shoot w/ Celebrity Photographer
**I'm leaving America again after October so the dates available are all I have.**
This experience takes place at the National Mall. We'll stroll past a few landmarks and monuments and get some amazing photos of you and your family or friends! (**The Lincoln Memorial is closed for photos due to construction. )
This experience is for tourists & locals wanting a few casual photos around DC.
**All photoshoots are private and not a group experience.
**No outfit changes for 1hr shoots
**Kids and pets are welcome. (No charge for pets or kids 2 and under.)
**You will receive your photos the SAME DAY!
**Discount for 3+ people
-----------------------------
Please be on time! Arriving after 15 minutes will result in you forfeiting your session. If you shoot me a message I'm happy to wait for you!
Anyone being photographed needs to pay for a slot. I don't allow people to just hop in a few photos.
We will be walking the entire time so wear comfortable shoes & dress appropriately for the weather :)
Art & Soul of Black Broadway
Discover the musical heritage of U Street --aka Black Broadway-- from jazz to hip hop to punk to go go. Walk the streets & back alleys and learn how murals, theatres, music venues, and memorials embrace the history of this amazing neighborhood. Along the way, we'll listen to a diverse playlist that will match up with the murals and venues.
Other things to note:
This tour ends at the intersection of 13th & U NW, 8 blocks from the starting point.
Typically I hold tours rain or shine, unless the weather posses a safety hazard (lightning, ice, tornado, etc). If a weather-related emergency arises, I will be in contact with the group to cancel, delay, or reschedule.
The tour includes long periods of standing and walking outdoors. Please wear comfortable and weather-appropriate footwear and clothing.
Restrooms may not be available during your tour; please plan accordingly.
Explore the Street Art of DC / Union Market & NoMa
Welcome to DC Mural Tour! The highest rated mural tour in Washington D.C.
You'll start by exploring the street art and murals of the NoMa neighborhood. You'll discover new and old pieces and learn more about the artists and street art scene in DC. Afterwards we'll venture to the vibrant Union Market District for more murals. You'll see more than 20 murals! We end the tour at Union Market, a huge food hall with plenty of outdoor space for food, drink, and people watching.
Be prepared to walk in any weather. Bring comfortable shoes and possibly sunscreen, a raincoat, or an umbrella. And don't forget your camera!
This tour is great for groups, work teams, and is perfect for team-building. If you do not see a date/time that work for you, I am happy to arrange a tour anytime. Must have a minimum of five guests for a private tour. Contact me with inquiries.
The tour lasts 2 - 2.5 hours.
Don't miss these local landmarks
Guided Small Group DC Day Tour w/Transportation
Discover the heart of the Nation's Capital with our expertly guided 4-hour tour of the Iconic National Mall. If you're eager to "SEE IT ALL," then this is the tour for you.
Tour Highlights:
Meeting Point: Your adventure begins at the Washington Grand Hyatt, where you'll meet your friendly and knowledgeable tour guide in front of Starbucks. After a warm welcome, you'll hop into our comfortable van, ready to explore the treasures of the National Mall.
Driving and Walking: This comprehensive tour combines the convenience of driving with the intimacy of walking, offering you the best of both worlds. You'll cover all the major DC sites, including monuments, memorials, and other attractions.
Live Commentary: Throughout the journey, your expert guide will provide live commentary, offering fascinating insights into the history, significance, and stories behind the monuments and landmarks that grace the National Mall.
Exploration Time: At each major site, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore for 15 to 25 minutes. We ensure drop-off and pick-up locations are as close as legally possible to make your experience seamless.
Private Experience: Want an exclusive tour for just your group? You can book our Private Experience, accommodating groups of up to 30 people. Enjoy a personalized adventure tailored to your interests.
Morning Photo Session in Washington DC
Treat yourself to great pictures as a souvenir while experiencing DC landmarks.
The photo session starts at the Lincoln Memorial which has great views of the Reflecting Pool and the Washington Monument.
*** The Lincoln Memorial is currently undergoing renovation, which unfortunately restricts photography around most of the exterior. However, there are still other areas where we can capture some great photos. ***
Then we have the option of taking a 10 minute walk to take more photos at either a beautiful park or at another Memorial on the National Mall.
This photo session can be adapted for engagements, elopements, families, graduating seniors, maternity, surprise proposals and business headshots.
In a non-private session, another person may book and join you. We will walk together as a group and rotate between who is taking pictures. Select the private option if you do not wish to share your session with another person.
Photos are typically delivered in 1 to 3 days. 10 edited high-res photo downloads are included. Additional photo downloads can be purchased for an additional cost.
After signing up, check your Airbnb messages to answer a short questionnaire and to receive the prep guide.
Message me if you wish to have a session for a time not listed or if you have any questions.
Washington DC After Dark Bike Tour
This evening bike tour takes you to the National Mall and Potomac Tidal Basin when the monuments are less crowded, the air is cooler, and the views are magnificent. You'll arrive 15 minutes to tour time to check-in and be fitted on your bike. Our hybrid bikes are perfect for city riding and we have a variety of sizes to fit you - no matter how tall or small. Our bikes have a handle bar bag and rack so you can store all the essentials - phone, keys, wallet.
We'll head out to the first stop, where we'll stop and your guide will share some history, and unique facts, and perhaps a dark secret or two.
Your tour will cover about 5 miles in three hours, making stops at all of the major monuments and memorials on the National Mall and around the Tidal Basin. At each stop, you'll hear from your guide before being given a few minutes to explore on your own and snap a photo or two. Don't worry! Your guide will stick close to the bikes, giving you the freedom to wander a bit.
Our tour route will end back at our shop, where our staff can help direct you to your next activity. Or you can, choose to keep your bike and keep exploring on your own (additional cost).
Other things to note
Arrive for check in 15 minutes prior to tour start time.
Attachments for children are available.
There is an optional insurance policy available in-store.
WASHINGTON DC PASEO tour español
Caminata en National Mall. Un recorrido para conocer las principales atracciones, históricas y lugares de esta bella ciudad. Impresionantes paisajes y vista de la capital de los Estados Unidos de América. Recorremos los monumentos más importantes y conocidos de la ciudad, apreciaremos algunos de los visitados Museos del Smithsonian. Conversaremos sobre la interesante historia de esta peculiar ciudad.
Amazing Washington DC Photoshoot
Capture some of the best moments while you're in Washington, DC with your own personal photoshoot. With my experience in fashion photography and understanding of the face angles and body poses, I'd love to show you how uniquely beautiful you are through my camera's lens.
Understanding that taking professional photos can be nerve-wrecking sometimes, I will help guide you through the photoshoot, and allow you to step out of your comfort zone. Don't be camera shy, be camera brave! You will get social media worthy shots that will leave all your friends jealous!
We will meet in front of the Washington Monument Monument. Then we will walk around the neighborhood, where I will be guiding you through a cool shots of the Monuments.
We can also explore hidden gems around the city.
If you have a desired location, please feel free to contact me, and I will be your personal photographer for the day. If you wish to have a shoot with your significant other or friends, please contact me as well to arrange a custom photoshoot.
Activities near top attractions
Things to do near Old Town
Walk in George Washington's Footsteps
We'll take a tour of historic Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, the hometown of George Washington, and a center of the American Revolution. And take in a bunch of Civil War history along the way.
This is a Live tour, not an online tour. We follow safe practices.
We'll visit a church from 1776 that contains the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution. The home of the mentor of Patrick Henry ("Give me liberty or give me death!") We'll discuss the enslaved woman who irked Martha Washington, and why George decided to free his slaves. We'll see the home of Washington's doctor, where we'll discuss the ill-fated remedies used at the time of GW's death.
Civil War sites will include the Appomattox statue, the site of a fiery skirmish between Union troops and Confederate sympathizers, and the workplace of a famous rebel spy.
Also, the market place where Washington lost a fist fight! And the place of GW's mysterious lady friend. As well as the meeting hall where George Mason composed the Bill of Rights to the U.S. Constitution. The townhouse of GW's older brother Lawrence. The mansion where GW helped plan the French and Indian War. The tavern where he held his inaugural ball. And his townhouse away from Mt. Vernon, & more!
Other things to note
Old Town can reached from the King St. metro station. From it, take the free trolley bus down King St. (https://www.visitalexandriava.com/plan/maps-and-transportation/king-street-trolley/).
The Art of French Desserts
A class on the Art of French Pastry.
....probably Pastry Codex's most popular class!
Enthusiasts will learn basic and advanced techniques on how to make a variety of classic and modern French desserts, including making a Creme Brulee, and layered desserts including building your very own Opera cake ( a sumptuous almond sponge layered cake made with a genuine French Buttercream and a Chocolate Ganache , Madeleines, and a delicate Pistachio Financier cake round out this comprehensive 3 hour class.
All classes will be hands on with a demonstration, and allowing students to have their own ingredients and equipment in a follow up modality of this interactive class offering.
Patrons finish up by torching their own Brulee, and caramelizing them along with decorating and finishing their very own individual Opera cake glazing it with a mirror Chocolate glaze. As a finishing touch they adorn the Opera with a fleck of edible gold leaf as decor adornment.
Fundamentals of French Macarons
Don your chef aprons, grab your whisks and lets get baking! In this fun and interactive class, you will learn the fine art to making these mouthwatering morsels that are easy enough to be done in your own kitchen! The classic 'Gerbert' or 'Paris Macaron' is a French meringue-based almond sandwich cookie.
Macarons have been produced in the Venetian monasteries since the 8th century during the Renaissance, French queen Catherine de’ Medici’s Italian pastry chefs made them when she brought them with her to France in 1533 upon marrying Henry II of France.
Chef Michael of Pastry Codex personally guides you as your ambassador into all of the subtle nuances of Making them, from proper development of the the Meringue, the development of the Macaronage mixture, demonstrating a folding technique, how to pipe them, differences of Silpat vs. parchment paper, explanations of color types gels vs. powders drying techniques and proprietary baking techniques to preserve color integrity.
Several flavors and types of fillings are available, seasonal themes. a genuine French buttercream is demonstrated, addition to ganaches, and flexi gels.
This has become an amazingly popular class! It comes with a 100% success rate guarantee, in other words if for whatever reason your Macarons do not come out correctly, you get a full refund with no questions asked!
Mastering French Croissants & Brioche
Learn everything in this comprehensive class on mastering the Art of Croissant making. From proper mixing of the dough, lamination and folding in of the butter, make up the individual pieces, to proper resting of the dough, proofing, baking and eating! In this all inclusive class you will also learn to make a Pain a chocolat along with an added bonus exclusive to this class, a creme brulee Brioche. All products are yours to take home with you.
Learn how to make a Champagne Blush cake
Learn how to make a Champagne Blush cake
In this mini comprehensive symposium you will learn how to make your very own blush cake which you get to take home with you!
the manifest includes the following:
French Macarons
a vanilla chiffon cake colored pink with a Champagne flavor sirop
a pink Champagne vanilla custard filling
an Italian butter cream
White chocolate modeling paste edible luster dust roses
White mirror Chocolate glaze for a drip effect.
Things to do near Capitol Hill
Washington DC After Dark Bike Tour
This evening bike tour takes you to the National Mall and Potomac Tidal Basin when the monuments are less crowded, the air is cooler, and the views are magnificent. You'll arrive 15 minutes to tour time to check-in and be fitted on your bike. Our hybrid bikes are perfect for city riding and we have a variety of sizes to fit you - no matter how tall or small. Our bikes have a handle bar bag and rack so you can store all the essentials - phone, keys, wallet.
We'll head out to the first stop, where we'll stop and your guide will share some history, and unique facts, and perhaps a dark secret or two.
Your tour will cover about 5 miles in three hours, making stops at all of the major monuments and memorials on the National Mall and around the Tidal Basin. At each stop, you'll hear from your guide before being given a few minutes to explore on your own and snap a photo or two. Don't worry! Your guide will stick close to the bikes, giving you the freedom to wander a bit.
Our tour route will end back at our shop, where our staff can help direct you to your next activity. Or you can, choose to keep your bike and keep exploring on your own (additional cost).
Other things to note
Arrive for check in 15 minutes prior to tour start time.
Attachments for children are available.
There is an optional insurance policy available in-store.
DC Black Broadway Tour
Tour Season is April- November
What's the astonishingly simple reason why visitors often miss out on the charm of Black Broadway? Its hidden in plain site. Discover the rich legacy of U street explained through the lens of a local. Stroll with me as we explore historical sites (past and present), uncover interesting truths, and use all 5 senses to do so. Work up a good appetite as we'll end our tour at Ben's Chilli Bowl, an ABSOLUTE staple in DC!
To remain flexible, food from Ben's Chilli Bowl is not included in the price of the ticket. Feel fee free to bring money to cover dining expense. Menu items range from around $5-$15/ person
Tour Season is April-November
Explore DC neighborhood bars like a local
What's better than a walking tour? A walking tour between local neighborhood watering holes.
Experience the bars in DC from a whole new perspective with Neighborhood Bar Golf!
Go places you've never been. Eat and drink things you never have. Meet people you'll never forget.
There are several courses to "play", but no greater way to get to know the most unique city in America.
Our hosts have taken the time to curate eclectic groups of the bars and restaurants tourists don't often find out about, and everyone can appreciate.
We will meet you at the starting point to give you the materials and the map.
There are nine places on every trip, but how many you visit is up to you. There is no specific end time to this experience, and that's definitely why its so much fun.
The game of a lifetime is waiting for you!
WASHINGTON DC PASEO tour español
Caminata en National Mall. Un recorrido para conocer las principales atracciones, históricas y lugares de esta bella ciudad. Impresionantes paisajes y vista de la capital de los Estados Unidos de América. Recorremos los monumentos más importantes y conocidos de la ciudad, apreciaremos algunos de los visitados Museos del Smithsonian. Conversaremos sobre la interesante historia de esta peculiar ciudad.
"Laugh with Me" Comedy Nights hosted by Makael Exum
Located minutes from downtown DC in Studio City! Come join other comedy enthusiasts and laughter aficionados! Laugh With M.E. comedy showed hosted by Makael Exum every 1st and 3rd Thursday nights. Contact us if you're interested in open mic opportunities!
STUDIO OPEN HOUSE @ 5:30PM
SHOWTIME IN FIRST STAGE @ 7:00PM
Proceeds received from social impact programs contribute directly to our mission.
Things to do near Georgetown
Residential · Historic · Quiet
Secret Doors Museum Tour
From spies to secret passageways put your super sleuth skills to the test as you search for over 80 secret doors and explore our themed rooms. We would never give you a map - this would ruin the surprise of finding a secret door but you will have a Q & A with one of our docents before you start your journey. It’s not in the finding, it’s in the seeking that is important. Experience the magic!
Your self-guided experience will begin with an in-depth video introduction to our history and our secret doors, as well as what to look for as you go. Then, we will send you off on your own to search for the secrets and treasures that are everywhere to be found.
As you explore the mansion, which is steeped in history and intrigue, you'll be walking in the footsteps of presidents, freedom fighters, G-Men, historians, famous musicians, and fiction writers. Built 125 years ago, nearly every President since Teddy Roosevelt has visited.
Things to note
We guarantee you can see at least 60 of our legendary rooms — but be warned secret doors are tricky to find —if you find 2 or 3 you are an above average sleuth
All ages can attend. If you have a short attention span, this is the place for you because there is so much to see and do. If you are a minimalist, you will be overwhelmed. Museum closes: Sunday - Tuesday at 6pm and Wednesday - Saturday at 9pm.
Washington DC Night Tour w/Transportation
Experience the heart of Washington, DC with us on a guided 3-hour journey through the National Mall. This dynamic tour seamlessly blends driving and walking to ensure you "SEE IT ALL."
Starting at the Washington Grand Hyatt, our adventure begins right in front of Starbucks. Meet your knowledgeable Tour Guide, board our comfortable van, and set off for the National Mall. With live commentary from your guide, immerse yourself in the stories behind the monuments, memorials, and other captivating attractions that define the National Mall's significance.
Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore several of DC's major attractions for 15 to 25 minutes at each location. Our drop-offs and pickups are strategically situated as close as legally feasible to each site, ensuring convenient access.
As the tour concludes, we return you to the Washington Grand Hyatt. And to cater to your comfort:
- Stay refreshed with complimentary water.
- Keep your phone powered up with our charging equipment, simply inform your driver.
- No need to worry about the weather – rain or shine, we've got you covered with umbrellas.
The Spies of Georgetown
If you enjoy real-life spy stories, covert operations, and international intrigue, this tour is for you. All of our tours are developed and delivered by former intelligence officers.
Learn spy mindset as you explore the hidden history of Georgetown. Hear about the crucial role residents played in espionage during WWII and the Soviet Era. And…conduct a secret operation! Hint: Bring your map reading skills.
This tour is ideal for groups and teams. Don’t forget your walking shoes, bring water, and dress for the weather.
Not seeing a tour on the calendar that works for your schedule? Submit a request for a new date/time. We'll work with you and do our best to accommodate your needs.
Private Shoot w/ Celebrity Photographer
**I'm leaving America again after October so the dates available are all I have.**
This experience takes place at the National Mall. We'll stroll past a few landmarks and monuments and get some amazing photos of you and your family or friends! (**The Lincoln Memorial is closed for photos due to construction. )
This experience is for tourists & locals wanting a few casual photos around DC.
**All photoshoots are private and not a group experience.
**No outfit changes for 1hr shoots
**Kids and pets are welcome. (No charge for pets or kids 2 and under.)
**You will receive your photos the SAME DAY!
**Discount for 3+ people
-----------------------------
Please be on time! Arriving after 15 minutes will result in you forfeiting your session. If you shoot me a message I'm happy to wait for you!
Anyone being photographed needs to pay for a slot. I don't allow people to just hop in a few photos.
We will be walking the entire time so wear comfortable shoes & dress appropriately for the weather :)
The Spies of Embassy Row
If you enjoy historical stories of conspiracy, politics, cover-ups, and assassinations, this tour is for you. All tours are developed and delivered by former intelligence officers.
Begin at Dupont Circle and examine the suspicious death of a Kremlin insider, the first of many suspicious deaths we explore. Hear more about the origins of “Embassy Row” and go to where infamous spies lived and operated. And…conduct a secret operation! Hint: Bring your map reading skills.
Don’t forget your walking shoes, bring water, and dress for the weather.
Not seeing a tour on the calendar that works for your schedule? Submit a request for a new date/time. We'll work with you and do our best to accommodate your needs.
All activities near Washington
Secret Doors Museum Tour
From spies to secret passageways put your super sleuth skills to the test as you search for over 80 secret doors and explore our themed rooms. We would never give you a map - this would ruin the surprise of finding a secret door but you will have a Q & A with one of our docents before you start your journey. It’s not in the finding, it’s in the seeking that is important. Experience the magic!
Your self-guided experience will begin with an in-depth video introduction to our history and our secret doors, as well as what to look for as you go. Then, we will send you off on your own to search for the secrets and treasures that are everywhere to be found.
As you explore the mansion, which is steeped in history and intrigue, you'll be walking in the footsteps of presidents, freedom fighters, G-Men, historians, famous musicians, and fiction writers. Built 125 years ago, nearly every President since Teddy Roosevelt has visited.
Things to note
We guarantee you can see at least 60 of our legendary rooms — but be warned secret doors are tricky to find —if you find 2 or 3 you are an above average sleuth
All ages can attend. If you have a short attention span, this is the place for you because there is so much to see and do. If you are a minimalist, you will be overwhelmed. Museum closes: Sunday - Tuesday at 6pm and Wednesday - Saturday at 9pm.
Washington DC Night Tour w/Transportation
Experience the heart of Washington, DC with us on a guided 3-hour journey through the National Mall. This dynamic tour seamlessly blends driving and walking to ensure you "SEE IT ALL."
Starting at the Washington Grand Hyatt, our adventure begins right in front of Starbucks. Meet your knowledgeable Tour Guide, board our comfortable van, and set off for the National Mall. With live commentary from your guide, immerse yourself in the stories behind the monuments, memorials, and other captivating attractions that define the National Mall's significance.
Throughout the tour, you'll have the opportunity to disembark and explore several of DC's major attractions for 15 to 25 minutes at each location. Our drop-offs and pickups are strategically situated as close as legally feasible to each site, ensuring convenient access.
As the tour concludes, we return you to the Washington Grand Hyatt. And to cater to your comfort:
- Stay refreshed with complimentary water.
- Keep your phone powered up with our charging equipment, simply inform your driver.
- No need to worry about the weather – rain or shine, we've got you covered with umbrellas.
See the Sites by Segway
You'll arrive 15 minutes to tour time to check-in and be fitted on your Segway. Segways are perfect for city riding and have a handle bar bag and rack so you can store all the essentials - phone, keys, wallet.
After getting set up, you'll meet the rest of your group and go through a 30 min training session to get comfortable before heading out.
Your tour will cover about 5-6 miles in 2 hours, making stops at all of the major monuments and memorials on the National Mall from the Capitol Building to The Lincoln Memorial and around the different Smithsonian Museums. At each stop, you'll hear some history, and unique facts, and perhaps a dark secret or two.
Our tour route will end back at the shop.
Other things to note
No Experience Necessary! We will teach you how to how to ride :)
The Spies of Georgetown
If you enjoy real-life spy stories, covert operations, and international intrigue, this tour is for you. All of our tours are developed and delivered by former intelligence officers.
Learn spy mindset as you explore the hidden history of Georgetown. Hear about the crucial role residents played in espionage during WWII and the Soviet Era. And…conduct a secret operation! Hint: Bring your map reading skills.
This tour is ideal for groups and teams. Don’t forget your walking shoes, bring water, and dress for the weather.
Not seeing a tour on the calendar that works for your schedule? Submit a request for a new date/time. We'll work with you and do our best to accommodate your needs.
Private Shoot w/ Celebrity Photographer
**I'm leaving America again after October so the dates available are all I have.**
This experience takes place at the National Mall. We'll stroll past a few landmarks and monuments and get some amazing photos of you and your family or friends! (**The Lincoln Memorial is closed for photos due to construction. )
This experience is for tourists & locals wanting a few casual photos around DC.
**All photoshoots are private and not a group experience.
**No outfit changes for 1hr shoots
**Kids and pets are welcome. (No charge for pets or kids 2 and under.)
**You will receive your photos the SAME DAY!
**Discount for 3+ people
-----------------------------
Please be on time! Arriving after 15 minutes will result in you forfeiting your session. If you shoot me a message I'm happy to wait for you!
Anyone being photographed needs to pay for a slot. I don't allow people to just hop in a few photos.
We will be walking the entire time so wear comfortable shoes & dress appropriately for the weather :)
Your guide to Washington
What do locals do in Washington DC?
Washington, DC is an extremely walkable city, and many locals skip the Metro and ride shares so they can enjoy the storied streets by foot. Hill East (part of Capitol Hill) is a family-friendly neighborhood that makes for a low-key stroll or bike ride to enjoy charming homes; meanwhile those looking for a more lively outing head to U Street (also known as Black Broadway for its impressive African American arts and culture scene) and H Street NE for the arts and some of the best food in the city. In-the-know residents of the capital city of the United States head to the museums after hours, when the crowds have dissipated.
What are the best ways to see Washington monuments?
Join Washington insiders at the National Mall
What better way to learn about the National Mall favorites such as the White House than with the people who had access to presidents and their staff? Tour the perimeter of the White House to hear entertaining stories in places like Lafayette Square from political insiders.
Go on food tours
Walk the beautiful Potomac River, see parts of the Georgetown University campus, pass by historic churches and homes — and top it off with coffee and donuts. Explore Washington’s African American food, art, and music on a neighborhood tour. Taste a sampling of locally owned restaurants in Old Town. For those who want hands-on history, master French macarons, Puerto Rican dishes, and Italian cookies, among other goods, with local chefs during cooking classes.
Kayak to the National Arboretum
One way to avoid the crowds of walking tours: take a kayak instead. On a kayak tour, a local expert shares stories about the Anacostia neighborhood and its surroundings, including the story of the Peace Tree, which survived the bombing of Hiroshima, Japan, and was later gifted to the Arboretum.