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Experiences

It’s America’s most historic birthday bash yet

See why Washington, DC is the center of celebrating America’s 250th birthday. Engage your patriotic spirit and dive into a year-long extravaganza that bursts with history-making fun. We’ve got only-in-DC itineraries, must-see national attractions and travel tips for getting around the region.

Celebrate with our Partners

Opening in 2026: The Lincoln Undercroft

A new experience awaits underneath the Lincoln Memorial

Celebrating Community, Culture & Legacy in Adams Morgan

Our signature events highlight Adams Morgan’s vibrant culture and history. Known for its rich diversity and creative, entrepreneurial spirit, the neighborhood reflects the values that have shaped our nation. Through live performances, local art and unique flavors, join us in Adams Morgan to celebrate this iconic neighborhood’s legacy and its connection to 250 years of American progress and community. 

July 4th Spectacular on Pennsylvania Ave 2026

The July 4th Spectacular on Penn Ave will bring the city and nation together over two days to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and celebrate the United States’ past, present, and promising future. Gather on Pennsylvania Avenue and experience interactive and immersive art and cultural activities that invite participation and connection.

Where Art, Biography & the History of a Nation Come Together

Just a few blocks off the National Mall, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a year of portraiture from historic treasures to new work by contemporary artists.

2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12)

Mark the 250th anniversary of the United States at the National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12) in Washington, DC, where the blossoms aren't the only thing blooming – so is the spirit of America.   Join thousands of visitors from around the world to commemorate our nation’s history while surrounded by the beauty of spring’s most iconic flowers. Celebrate the semiquincentennial at the nation’s greatest springtime celebration with art, culture and spectacular events as you witness the nation’s past and future unfold. 

Celebrate with our Partners

2026 National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12)

Mark the 250th anniversary of the United States at the National Cherry Blossom Festival (March 20 – April 12) in Washington, DC, where the blossoms aren't the only thing blooming – so is the spirit of America.   Join thousands of visitors from around the world to commemorate our nation’s history while surrounded by the beauty of spring’s most iconic flowers. Celebrate the semiquincentennial at the nation’s greatest springtime celebration with art, culture and spectacular events as you witness the nation’s past and future unfold. 

Opening in 2026: The Lincoln Undercroft

A new experience awaits underneath the Lincoln Memorial

Celebrating Community, Culture & Legacy in Adams Morgan

Our signature events highlight Adams Morgan’s vibrant culture and history. Known for its rich diversity and creative, entrepreneurial spirit, the neighborhood reflects the values that have shaped our nation. Through live performances, local art and unique flavors, join us in Adams Morgan to celebrate this iconic neighborhood’s legacy and its connection to 250 years of American progress and community. 

July 4th Spectacular on Pennsylvania Ave 2026

The July 4th Spectacular on Penn Ave will bring the city and nation together over two days to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence and celebrate the United States’ past, present, and promising future. Gather on Pennsylvania Avenue and experience interactive and immersive art and cultural activities that invite participation and connection.

Where Art, Biography & the History of a Nation Come Together

Just a few blocks off the National Mall, the Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery will celebrate the nation’s 250th anniversary with a year of portraiture from historic treasures to new work by contemporary artists.

Things to Do

Explorer-In-Chief: Marvel at DC with These Presidential Experiences

Here's how you can get presidential in the District.

Free Things to Do: History & Heritage in Washington, DC

Washington, DC is full of free things to do, and many involve American history, heritage and culture. Below, you will find numerous free museums and attractions, including the city’s iconic monuments and memorials on the National Mall. After exploring these landmarks, there’s no doubt you will have a better understanding of the United States and its incredible history.  

15 Must-See DC Events & Festivals

You can find amazing festivals and events taking place all year long in Washington, DC. With a wide variety of things to do spread across the city’s many neighborhoods, visitors and locals can enjoy everything from annual festivals and holiday celebrations to new museum exhibits, concerts and so much more. Discover DC’s must-see events and festivals and start planning your trip today.

Things to Know About the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC

The cherry blossom trees are without a doubt the stars of springtime in Washington, DC. Visit the District during this time and you’ll find the nation’s capital is outfitted in pink for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Here are some must-knows as you plan to celebrate the blossoms during a visit to DC.

8 Must-See Monuments & Memorials on the National Mall

According to the American Institute of Architects, half of Americans’ top 12 favorite architectural gems line the National Mall. There’s no denying the significance of the Mall for its symbols to American history and for its uniquely designed monuments. Check them all out here, then it's time to explore by foot or while taking a Big Bus Tour.

The Best Place to Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday

With so much U.S. history to explore for free, there’s no better destination for America’s milestone anniversary than Washington, DC.

Things to Do

The Best Place to Celebrate America’s 250th Birthday

With so much U.S. history to explore for free, there’s no better destination for America’s milestone anniversary than Washington, DC.

Explorer-In-Chief: Marvel at DC with These Presidential Experiences

Here's how you can get presidential in the District.

Free Things to Do: History & Heritage in Washington, DC

Washington, DC is full of free things to do, and many involve American history, heritage and culture. Below, you will find numerous free museums and attractions, including the city’s iconic monuments and memorials on the National Mall. After exploring these landmarks, there’s no doubt you will have a better understanding of the United States and its incredible history.  

15 Must-See DC Events & Festivals

You can find amazing festivals and events taking place all year long in Washington, DC. With a wide variety of things to do spread across the city’s many neighborhoods, visitors and locals can enjoy everything from annual festivals and holiday celebrations to new museum exhibits, concerts and so much more. Discover DC’s must-see events and festivals and start planning your trip today.

Things to Know About the Cherry Blossoms in Washington, DC

The cherry blossom trees are without a doubt the stars of springtime in Washington, DC. Visit the District during this time and you’ll find the nation’s capital is outfitted in pink for the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Here are some must-knows as you plan to celebrate the blossoms during a visit to DC.

8 Must-See Monuments & Memorials on the National Mall

According to the American Institute of Architects, half of Americans’ top 12 favorite architectural gems line the National Mall. There’s no denying the significance of the Mall for its symbols to American history and for its uniquely designed monuments. Check them all out here, then it's time to explore by foot or while taking a Big Bus Tour.

Capital of Museums

20+ Cool & Interesting Museums in Washington, DC That Aren’t On the National Mall

Washington, DC is known for being home to world-class museums. In addition to the fabulous slate of free museums along the National Mall, the District is home to a vast collection of high quality museums to investigate everything from crime and news to art, history and more. 

Kid-Friendly Attractions & Interactive Museums in Washington, DC

DC’s wealth of museums and attractions means there are always magical places where kids are transported from the ho-hum of touring to the “Wow!” of experiencing. Many of these sites feature interactive exhibits and entertainment to help capture the attention of even the smallest sightseer. Begin your exploring with these family-friendly spots.

An Overview of the Smithsonian Institution Museums in Washington, DC

History, science, art and culture live at these free attractions in Washington, DC.

Can’t-Miss Free Museums on the National Mall

To go with its monuments and memorials, the National Mall boasts an impressive lineup of free museums. Visitors should take advantage of the wide range of experiences on hand, from immersing themselves in classic art to marveling at the wonders of aviation and our natural world. Let your wallet breathe and explore these free museums during your next trip to the nation’s capital.

Free Things to Do: Museums in Washington, DC

Washington, DC is filled with free museums, from Smithsonians including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum, to art-filled museums like the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery of Art. Free museum experiences should be part of any trip to DC, and we have laid out some of our favorites below.

Capital of Museums

Free Things to Do: Museums in Washington, DC

Washington, DC is filled with free museums, from Smithsonians including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of Natural History and the National Air and Space Museum, to art-filled museums like the National Portrait Gallery and the National Gallery of Art. Free museum experiences should be part of any trip to DC, and we have laid out some of our favorites below.

20+ Cool & Interesting Museums in Washington, DC That Aren’t On the National Mall

Washington, DC is known for being home to world-class museums. In addition to the fabulous slate of free museums along the National Mall, the District is home to a vast collection of high quality museums to investigate everything from crime and news to art, history and more. 

Kid-Friendly Attractions & Interactive Museums in Washington, DC

DC’s wealth of museums and attractions means there are always magical places where kids are transported from the ho-hum of touring to the “Wow!” of experiencing. Many of these sites feature interactive exhibits and entertainment to help capture the attention of even the smallest sightseer. Begin your exploring with these family-friendly spots.

An Overview of the Smithsonian Institution Museums in Washington, DC

History, science, art and culture live at these free attractions in Washington, DC.

Can’t-Miss Free Museums on the National Mall

To go with its monuments and memorials, the National Mall boasts an impressive lineup of free museums. Visitors should take advantage of the wide range of experiences on hand, from immersing themselves in classic art to marveling at the wonders of aviation and our natural world. Let your wallet breathe and explore these free museums during your next trip to the nation’s capital.

Visiting the National Archives Building & Museum in Washington, DC

This historic museum near DC's National Mall is where you can see America’s founding documents.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Discover rich and essential African American history at this free Smithsonian museum on the National Mall.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, DC

Immerse yourself in the red, white and blue at this impressive free museum dedicated to American history.

Visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC

Experience this powerful living memorial to the Holocaust on the National Mall.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC

Coming Soon: A Reimagined National Air and Space Museum

Visiting the Library of Congress in Washington, DC

The largest library in the world makes for a fascinating historical and literary experience in the nation’s capital.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC

Bask in every aspect of the Native American experience at this free Smithsonian landmark.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian in Washington, DC

Bask in every aspect of the Native American experience at this free Smithsonian landmark.

Visiting the National Archives Building & Museum in Washington, DC

This historic museum near DC's National Mall is where you can see America’s founding documents.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture

Discover rich and essential African American history at this free Smithsonian museum on the National Mall.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Museum of American History in Washington, DC

Immerse yourself in the red, white and blue at this impressive free museum dedicated to American history.

Visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC

Experience this powerful living memorial to the Holocaust on the National Mall.

Visiting the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum in Washington, DC

Coming Soon: A Reimagined National Air and Space Museum

Visiting the Library of Congress in Washington, DC

The largest library in the world makes for a fascinating historical and literary experience in the nation’s capital.

Itineraries

3 Days Exploring Civil War to Civil Rights in Washington, DC

Follow this DC itinerary for a trip filled with history, from the Civil War through the Civil Rights Movement.

3 Days of Arts & Culture in Washington, DC

Sample DC's thriving arts and culture scene – from bookworm adventures in Thomas Jefferson's library to live performances and much more – with this three-day trip itinerary.

3 Days Following President Lincoln's Footsteps in Washington, DC

Explore President Abraham Lincoln’s Washington, DC with this itinerary, including where he stayed before moving into the White House, how he spent his final days and much more.

3-Day Only1DC Itinerary

Experience the unique attractions and neighborhoods that are only in Washington, DC with your group – and this three-day itinerary.

3 Days of African American History & Heritage in Washington, DC

Experience African American history, culture and entertainment in Washington, DC with this three-day trip itinerary.

Itineraries

3 Days of African American History & Heritage in Washington, DC

Experience African American history, culture and entertainment in Washington, DC with this three-day trip itinerary.

3 Days Exploring Civil War to Civil Rights in Washington, DC

Follow this DC itinerary for a trip filled with history, from the Civil War through the Civil Rights Movement.

3 Days of Arts & Culture in Washington, DC

Sample DC's thriving arts and culture scene – from bookworm adventures in Thomas Jefferson's library to live performances and much more – with this three-day trip itinerary.

3 Days Following President Lincoln's Footsteps in Washington, DC

Explore President Abraham Lincoln’s Washington, DC with this itinerary, including where he stayed before moving into the White House, how he spent his final days and much more.

3-Day Only1DC Itinerary

Experience the unique attractions and neighborhoods that are only in Washington, DC with your group – and this three-day itinerary.