There’s a never-ending list of fun things to do in D.C. From all the museums and attractions to the amazing restaurants and nightlife to the beautiful parks and outdoor recreational activities—the District has it all.
Read on to check out our list of 10 fun things to do in D.C. that are sure to make you feel good.
10 Fun and Uplifting Activities to Enjoy in D.C.
Visit Theodore Roosevelt Island: A peaceful retreat from city life, this island offers 2.5 miles of hiking trails perfect for nature lovers and a peaceful escape.
Outdoor Ice Skating: D.C. offers several beautiful outdoor ice skating rinks, including the Wharf Ice Rink, Canal Park, and the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink.
Hang Out at Union Market: This dynamic marketplace is full of food, drink, shopping, and unique pop-up events, making it a great day or night destination.
Enjoy Live Music: Washington D.C. has a thriving live music scene, with popular venues like Songbird Music House, Lincoln Theatre, and 9:30 Club.
Visit the International Spy Museum: Have fun with interactive exhibits and spy-themed activities, perfect for a rainy day adventure.
Campfire and S’mores at The Wharf: Cozy up by the fire with a warm drink and s’mores at The Wharf’s vintage s’mores trailer.
Take a Ride on The Capital Wheel: Enjoy breathtaking views of D.C. from this giant Ferris wheel at National Harbor.
Explore Local Flea Markets: Discover antiques, unique goods, and tasty treats at flea markets like Georgetown Flea Market and Eastern Market.
Visit the Mansion on O Street: Explore this historic mansion, complete with secret doors, a museum, and the option to stay overnight.
Explore Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens: A hidden gem with freshwater gardens, nature trails, and wildlife, perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.
Visit Theodore Roosevelt Island
The island is a beautiful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city, with 2.5 miles of hiking trails it is the perfect spot for an afternoon hike, run, or simply exploring and enjoying nature’s solitude. If you love nature, visiting Roosevelt Island is something you have to do in D.C.
Theodore Roosevelt Island is a national memorial located in the Potomac River. The Island, located at the head of Mount Vernon Trail, is accessible only by a footbridge which is about a 10-minute walk from Rosslyn Metro station. If you’re planning to drive, there is a free parking lot located in Rosslyn near the footbridge that you can access by driving north on the George Washington Parkway.
There are no bikes allowed on the island, but there are bike racks to lock your bike up if you decide to cycle there.
Go Ice Skating
There’s something magic about ice skating at an outdoor rink—being bundled up in your cozy winter gear, the crisp cool air, and gliding along on the ice—it’s the perfect way to have fun outdoors in D.C. this winter.
3 Places to Ice Skate in Washington D.C.
The Wharf Ice Rink
- The Wharf Ice Rink overlooks the waterfront and is adorned by sparkly lights, making it a picture-perfect spot for a romantic date or a twilight skate with friends before dinner. Your Instagram won’t be disappointed!
*The Wharf Ice Rink is a quick 10-minute drive from the Circle Arms Apartments in Foggy Bottom.
Canal Park Outdoor Ice Skating
- The Canal Park Outdoor Ice Skating rink is a figure 8 rink in Canal Park that makes for a great afternoon or evening of skating fun. There are eateries right outside the rink so you won’t have to go far for a bite or some hot cocoa to warm up after skating.
National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink
- Ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink becomes a nuanced artistic experience as you skate through the sculpture garden surrounded by sparkly cafe lights. Skaters can enjoy warm drinks or beer and wine with a bite to eat at the Pavilion Cafe before or after their skate session.
Hang Out At Union Market
Union Market has a vibe like no other place in D.C. During the day the marketplace is a lively community space where you can eat, drink, and shop. It is a creativity hub and meeting place for foodies, artists, young entrepreneurs, and professionals. Not only are there over 40 vendors at Union Market, but you can learn to tango, take calligraphy lessons, take a mural tour, or enjoy any of the other fun and unique pop-up events hosted at the market. At night, Union Market turns into a heavenly foodie destination to enjoy some of D.C.’s finest cuisine.
*If you live at The Phoenix apartments, Union Market is about a 15-minute drive away.
Check Out Some Live Music
Seeing a concert is one of the most fun things to do in D.C. It feels good to be able to see live music again after the pandemic halted a lot of live performances. Washington D.C. has so many great spots to catch your favorite bands. Here are some of our favorites:
Where To See Live Music Concerts In Washington D.C.
- Songbird Music House
- Lincoln Theatre
- 9:30 Club
- Union Stage
Visit The International Spy Museum
Looking to have some fun in D.C. on a rainy afternoon? Go on an undercover mission at the International Spy Museum. The museum is filled with interactive activities to test your spy skills. Crack codes, create your disguise and try not to blow your cover.
Capitals Campfire & S’mores
Cozy up by the fire pit this weekend and grab some s’mores at The Wharf. Visit Camp Wharf’s vintage s’mores trailer and chill by the fire, roast some marshmallows, sip hot apple cider, and enjoy the D.C. waterfront vibe.
The Capital Wheel
If you’re looking for cool things to do it doesn’t get any cooler than The Capital Wheel. Inspired by the Roue de Paris, The Capital Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel at National Harbor with climate-controlled gondolas that reach 180 feet above the Potomac River. With views of D.C., Maryland, and Virginia, visitors are sure to make some amazing memories.
Stroll The D.C. Flea Markets
If it’s been a while since you spent your Sunday afternoon strolling around at your local flea market, you’re missing out on the fun. Washington D.C.’s rich history means the District has some pretty amazing artifacts and antiques to be discovered. You can find some of those treasures at local flea markets as well as handcrafted goods and if you’re lucky…some yummy treats too!
3 Flea Markets In Washington D.C. To Check-Out:
- Georgetown Flea Market
- Flea Market at Eastern Market
- Dupont Little Flea Market
Spend Time At The Mansion on O Street
The Smithsonian rated the Mansion on O Street as one of the top 5 historic places to explore in the world—so yeah, there’s fun to be had! With over 100 rooms, a museum, a hotel, and 70 secret doors, guests can spend the night, visit the museum, or take a tour—whatever you choose, just get there—it’s a must-see in D.C.
*The Mansion on O Street is centrally located in Dupont Circle and less than a 10-minute walk from The Rodney Apartments, The Sedgewick Apartments, and 1830R Apartments.
Explore Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens, where “water and wind dance”, is open year-round for visitors to explore and enjoy different aspects of nature with the turn of each season. Spy wildflowers, freshwater aquatic gardens bursting with 500 year-old lotus and tropical lilies, turtles, and much more. Whether you take a walk on the nature trails, birdwatch, or take some breathtaking photos, Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is a great way to take a break and have fun in nature in Washington D.C.
*Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens is about a 15-minute drive away from Prince Georges Apartments in Hyattsville.
Find Your New Apartment In D.C.
There’s always something fun to do in D.C. We have some of the best parks in the country, a vibrant art scene, endless restaurants, and a ton of museums. If you aren’t already a D.C. resident but are considering moving to our nation’s capital, get in touch with a leasing agent. We have a unique selection of apartments in neighborhoods all over Washington D.C. from Foggy Bottom to Van Ness and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions: Fun Things to Do in D.C. That Will Make You Feel Good
What can I do at Theodore Roosevelt Island?
Theodore Roosevelt Island offers 2.5 miles of hiking trails, perfect for hiking, running, or simply enjoying nature’s solitude. It is an ideal retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Where can I go ice skating in Washington D.C.?
Washington D.C. has several outdoor ice skating rinks, including The Wharf Ice Rink, Canal Park Outdoor Ice Skating, and the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink. Each provides a unique experience, whether for a romantic evening or a fun outing with friends.
What is Union Market in D.C. like?
Union Market is a vibrant community space with over 40 vendors. It hosts a variety of fun activities like tango lessons, calligraphy classes, and mural tours during the day. In the evening, it transforms into a popular food destination.
Where can I see live music in Washington D.C.?
Washington D.C. has a thriving live music scene. Notable venues include Songbird Music House, Lincoln Theatre, 9:30 Club, and Union Stage, where you can catch performances from your favorite bands.
What can I do at the International Spy Museum?
The International Spy Museum offers interactive exhibits where visitors can test their spy skills, crack codes, create disguises, and complete missions. It’s a great activity for a rainy afternoon.
What is the Capital Wheel at National Harbor?
The Capital Wheel is a giant Ferris wheel offering stunning views of D.C., Maryland, and Virginia. It features climate-controlled gondolas and is a must-see for anyone looking for amazing views of the Potomac River.
Where can I go shopping at flea markets in D.C.?
D.C. is home to several great flea markets, including Georgetown Flea Market, the Flea Market at Eastern Market, and Dupont Little Flea Market, where you can discover antiques, handcrafted goods, and local treats.
What is the Mansion on O Street?
The Mansion on O Street is a historic site with over 100 rooms, a museum, and 70 secret doors. It is considered one of the top 5 historic places to explore in the world and offers tours and overnight stays.
What can I do at Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens?
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is a beautiful natural space with freshwater gardens, nature trails, and wildlife. You can enjoy walking, birdwatching, and photographing the aquatic plants and animals, especially during different seasons.
