Washington, D.C. is buzzing with springtime energy! The city is bursting with cherry blossoms and a vibrant mix of events, from outdoor adventures to cultural experiences. Get ready to explore the best of the capital this week!
Escape the city bustle in this 4.4-square-mile urban oasis. Hike or bike the trails, visit the nature center, or enjoy a picnic. With car-free roadways, it's easily accessible for everyone.
Tip: Check out the Boulder Bridge and Peirce Mill historic site for a glimpse into the park's past.
Enjoy a scenic walk, run, or bike ride along this revitalized waterfront. The continuous 20-mile trail offers beautiful views of the Anacostia River and access to the Capitol Riverfront and Anacostia neighborhoods.
Tip: Keep an eye out for public art installations and community events along the trail.
Rent a kayak or paddleboard and experience stunning monumental views from the water. Catch a sunset paddle for an unforgettable evening.
Tip: Launch from the Georgetown waterfront for easy access and plenty of rental options.
Navy Yard is going “petal” to the metal with a day-long festival for the whole family including face painting, live performances, flower crowns, lantern and origami making, and a beverage garden. The evening even ends with the official National Cherry Blossom Festival fireworks show.
Tip: The festival is on Saturday, April 4th from 1-9pm with the fireworks kicking off at 8:30pm.
This 12,500-square-foot food hall on Capitol Hill brings together some of the District's best chefs and food purveyors. From coffee to burgers to refined cocktails, there's something for everyone.
Tip: Check out Shop Made in DC within The Roost for unique local goods and gifts.
This waterfront destination offers a wide array of dining options, from fine dining to casual cafes. Enjoy the atmosphere and seasonal specials.
Tip: Take the free Wharf Jitney across the Washington Channel from Recreation Pier to East Potomac Park.
Enjoy a 'Parisian steakhouse meets New York City tavern' experience in DC, not far from Union Market. Much of the menu has carried over to DC, including the famous Black Label burger made with short rib, skirt, brisket, and dry-aged ribeye.
Tip: If you're a French onion soup maven, don't miss the Minetta Tavern version — the broth is so beefy and savory that isn't just an excuse to eat melted cheese and bread.
With its mix of traditional and updated takes on Korean homestyle dishes, Anju remains a tough reservation almost five years after its opening.
Tip: Anju's starters are all excellent, especially the craveable fried chicken with gochujang glaze and white bbq drizzle and the beef tartare.
Board a double-decker party yacht for a cruise along the Potomac River. Meet new people and enjoy the lively atmosphere, music, and unlimited drinks.
Tip: These cruises often have themes, so check the schedule and dress accordingly.
This tropical-themed nightclub offers live music, a rooftop, cabanas, DJs, and games. Perfect for a night out with friends, date night, or a celebration.
Tip: Rent an Interior Cabana for a guaranteed space for your crew.
Book a private table for you and your friends and order bottle service to create an unforgettable experience for yourself and others. Music: Mix of live music and DJ sets, various genres.
Tip: SAX is located on 734 11th St NW and is open only Fridays and Saturdays, 10:00 pm – 3:00 am.
This bar and music venue is as unapologetically divey as it gets in an ever-evolving neighborhood. Happy hour goes late, but drinks are still quite affordable on any of the three floors.
Tip: Hang out downstairs in a cozy booth; visit the middle floor for stand-up comedy, live music or '90s dance parties; and take a breather on the top-floor patio (which is open year-round and covered in the winter).
Explore world-class art collections from the Renaissance to modern times. Don't miss the special exhibits and the Sculpture Garden.
Tip: Visit on a Thursday evening for an after-hours celebration of American art, sound and culture.
See portraits of influential people throughout America's history, from activists to presidents.
Tip: Check out the rotating exhibits that highlight specific themes or artists.
Visit the only institution in the greater Washington, DC area solely dedicated to fostering underrepresented artists in every discipline.
Tip: The DC Arts Center is located in Adams Morgan.
One of Shakespeare's most popular comedies is reimagined by Folger Theatre's Artistic Director Karen Ann Daniels. The story concerns Rosalind and her cousin, Celia, who are forced to leave the “court” and in turn explore the vast forest of Arden, where adventure awaits.
Tip: The setting conjures love for DC, and the production takes care to showcase the city as a place of redemption, resilience and community.
Explore the many Smithsonian museums on the National Mall, including the National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History.
Tip: While admission is free, some museums require timed-entry passes, so plan ahead.
Visit the iconic monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial.
Tip: Walk around the Tidal Basin for picturesque views, especially during cherry blossom season.
Wander the Library of Congress with its ornate reading rooms (free time-entry ticket required).
Tip: Guided tours provide deeper insight into the architecture, collections, and history of this national treasure.
The National Arboretum is one of the best free things to do in DC for nature lovers. While it is sort of in an odd location there's exhibits, thousands of plants, and a little museum.
Tip: The bonsai trees are really neat to see and I enjoy bringing food on a warm day and having a picnic.
Kids love the dinosaur exhibit and the Orkin Insect Zoo, among many other interactive displays. The museum also contains an IMAX theater featuring engaging films on an enormous IMAX screen.
Tip: Don't miss the iconic African Bush Elephant and the Hope Diamond.
Perfect for kids of all ages, with interactive exhibits like How Things Fly and iconic aircraft like the Wright brothers' 1903 Flyer.
Tip: Book a timed entry ticket for the Air and Space Museum.
See an A to Z of animals at the Smithsonian's National Zoo.
Tip: Visit the Asian Elephants on Elephant Trails.
Across the Potomac River lies this tribute to those who died defending our country. Free to visit, Arlington National Cemetery is the largest military cemetery in the US.
Tip: Experience the changing of the guard and pay respects at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.