Day tour of the city
No Washington D.C. city break would be complete without taking the time to look around and take in some of the world-famous sights. There are plenty of options if you are looking for an organised tour, either by foot or more likely by bus. These tours can usually be booked from one of the many information centres around the downtown area.
Must-sees
D.C is full of must see attractions, ranging from iconic movie backgrounds to lesser known American architecture. At the Washington Monument you can climb the stairs and check out the various windows on your way up. At the top of the monument is a small gift shop and museum where you can learn more about the monument itself. Not far from the monument is the National Mall where Dr. Martin Luther King made his world-changing speech. These days the grass plays host to tourists and locals alike, taking a break from enjoying the city.
In the centre of the city you will find the White House. The front lawn is usually buzzing with tourists looking for the classic picture by the gate, and though it is difficult to get close to the building, it remains an impressive spectacle and great photo opportunity.
Art and culture
Explore The Phillips Collection, America’s first museum of modern art, in Dupont Circle—a perfect cultural stop for your city break in Washington, D.C. It features works by renowned artists like Renoir, van Gogh, and Rothko, alongside rotating exhibits celebrating contemporary creators. For a futuristic twist, visit Artechouse, where art meets technology in immersive digital exhibitions. Its interactive displays of light, sound, and motion captivate visitors of all ages. For something more unconventional, head to the Dupont Underground, a repurposed trolley station hosting contemporary art installations and cultural events beneath Dupont Circle.
Shopping
No Washington D.C. city break would be complete without a trip around the shops, and true to its American heritage Washington D.C. provides plenty of opportunity for that. The American malls are littered across the city. However, there are a number of standout examples.
In D.C.’s Chinatown neighbourhood you can find yourself at Gallery Place. The nearby Verizon Centre may also be worth a look, if you have time after exploring the huge variety of shops. Elsewhere, Union Station provides an enormous shopping experience that most other cities would find difficult to match. The mall was once the world’s largest train station – now it plays host to over 100 speciality shops for you to explore on your Washington D.C. city break.
Entertainment
The national theatre can be a great location to book a tour or even take in a show. If you have kids to entertain, Washington D.C.’s National Zoological Park is conveniently located by the D.C. Marriott for some family-friendly fun. And, of course, no American city break would be complete without a trip to the local sports park. The Robert F Kennedy stadium is a great place to visit for fun tours and interesting events.
Unique experiences and hidden gems
Discover The Mansion on O Street, a quirky venue with over 100 themed rooms and hidden doors, making it an unforgettable highlight of any city break. Visitors can enjoy self-guided tours while hunting for secret passageways in this eclectic treasure trove. Alternatively, dive into the local culture during your short break at Eastern Market, a historic hub for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and weekend art fairs, perfect for foodies and shoppers alike.
