Stephanie Early Green

Forget what you thought you knew about Washington, D.C.—the city's got way more to offer than just politics and government buildings—though we’ve got plenty of those, too. From free access to world-class museums to soaking up the sounds and beats of go-go, D.C. has got it all. So, after you snap your obligatory pic with the Lincoln Memorial, consider swinging by Ben's Chili Bowl for a legendary half-smoke. Or take a stroll through some of the nation’s best-kept parks before catching a show at the legendary Kennedy Center. The possibilities are endless and year-round. Here are the top things to do in Washington, D.C. this year. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. This guide was updated by D.C.-based writer Omnia Saed. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED:👪 The best things to do in Washington D.C. with kids🌿 The best cannabis dispensaries in D.C.🧳 The best day trips from D.C. to get away from it all🍺 The best bars in D.C.🛏️ The best hotels in Washington D.C.🏘️ The best Airbnbs in Washington D.C.

New York, Los Angeles, Chicago—the country’s largest cities seem to get all the culinary cred. Despite boasting a Michelin guide since 2016, Washington, D.C. has been slow to catch up to those bigger burgs. But it’s not for lack of effort or sheer deliciousness of the food. The 2021 census revealed that the District is now one of the most diverse cities in the country. This list will demonstrate that the cuisine matches the demographics—in fact, the best restaurants in D.C. are as globally inspired as the embassies surrounding them. From khachapuri to al pastor, vegan chili to Japanese-Italian pizza, D.C. has something to satisfy every taste. Now that’s representation. This guide was updated by Virginia-based writer Alice Levitt. At Time Out, all our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.  RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Washington, D.C.

Living in D.C. is pretty amazing because there's always something happening, and our list of free things to do in D.C. is pretty long. Whether you're exploring the iconic Smithsonian museums, catching a glimpse of Abraham Lincoln's marble statue, or joining the festivities at Mardi Gras at The Wharf, D.C. is packed with endless opportunities to do, see, and enjoy. So, why spend your weekend dwelling on the state of the Union? Get out there and explore some sights. These are the best attractions in Washington, D.C. to kick things off. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do in Washington, D.C.

A tour of DC’s art museums may have you wondering whether the capital has more paintings or politicians. Heavyweights such as the National Gallery of Art, which houses masterpieces from Monet, Cezanne and Renoir, and the Smithsonian American Art Museum with its impressive collection of large-scale contemporary works, are among the best museums in DC, but they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Even better for culture lovers, most of the city’s major museums don’t charge admission, making an afternoon of art appreciation one of the most gratifying free things to do in DC.

Washingtonians aren’t exactly known for flamboyant style—something you realize after moving to DC—but that doesn’t mean we lack fashion sense. Vintage aficionados unearth unique finds in 14th St NW emporiums, including Dr. K Vintage for menswear, Junction for funky clothing and accessories, and Blues Hard Goods for retro denim. If you're looking to revitalize your wardrobe, Ginger Root Design's tailoring service is renowned across town and the store also carries locally designed jewelry and accessories for men and women. Redeem is the place to go for edgy international designers. But there’s much more to prime shopping in DC than clothing. The city is strong on bookstores that offer more than the latest bestsellers—Kramerbooks also contains one of the city’s best coffee shops. If you’re looking to round out your vinyl collection, head to Adams Morgan for Crooked Beat Records and Smash Records.