The best things to do in Washington, D.C. right now

What is it? Cherry blossom trees were gifted to the U.S. by Japan as a sign of goodwill and inter-country friendship. First celebrated in 1935, the National Cherry Blossom Festival, celebrates the change of seasons and the beauty of the city's iconic flowers. The festival itself includes lots of fun activities, like the Blossom Kite Festival near the Washington Monument. One of the most Instagrammable spots in D.C., the Tidal Basin is home to the iconic ring of cherry blossom trees. 

Why go? Nothing says spring in D.C. like cherry blossoms blooming. The trees, which were planted in 1912 as a gift from the people of Japan to those of the United States, are venerated by D.C. visitors and residents alike as a symbol of spring’s imminent arrival. 

Cherry blossom season is akin to the holiday season in D.C.; local businesses get in on the action with themed drinks, food, and activities—the city even wraps Metro cars and buses in cherry blossom banners. 

What is it? Nestled on the shore of the Potomac River and affectionately known as "the Kennedy Center," The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts holds the prestigious title of the official United States National Cultural Center. Renamed after President Kennedy in 1964, this icon has hosted world-class events for many years since. A newer space, the REACH at The Kennedy Center, hosts outdoor events that are often free. 

Why go? The Kennedy Center is an icon in the city and the country, and is the spot to see nationally-recognized theater, music, opera, and dance performances. Check the events calendar for what's on, which includes offerings like touring Broadway musicals and concerts from the National Symphony Orchestra. 

Time Out tip: Parking at The Kennedy Center—and leaving after a busy show—can be a nightmare. Take the free Kennedy Center shuttle, which picks up across from the Hall of Nations and adrops you to the Foggy Bottom Metro stop.

What is it? A massive zoo that's open yearround, Smithsonian's National Zoo is home to more than 2,200 animals. 

Why go? Affordable outings that are fun for the whole family don't get much better than the National Zoo. The most famous residents of the zoo are the Giant Pandas, but there are plenty of cool animals like elephants, American Bison, cheetahs, lions, Komodo dragons to observe. Reserve a free entry pass online to visit.

Time Out tip: The D.C. Metro is the best way to get to and from the zoo, but you should get off at the Cleveland Park stop instead of the Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan stop to avoid a steep uphill walk, which can be particularly brutal in the summertime. 

What is it: Smithosonian's Museum of Natural History is pure fuel for anyone who loves the natural world. One of the most iconic museums on the National Mall, this has something for everyone. 

Why go? The Museum of Natural History includes some really great exhibits. See priceless jewelry and semiprecious and precious stones in the Hall of Geology, Gems and Minerals, which is also home to the Hope Diamond, the massive blue stone that inspired Rose's Heart of the Ocean necklace in Titanic. Dinosaur fossils come to life in the Hall of Fossils, and the Butterfly Pavilion is a beautiful escape into the rainforest filled with tropical plants and live butterflies.

What is it? Rock Creek Park is a 1,754-acre green space in the heart of the city that has been around since the 1800s. On the edge of Woodley Park and Mt. Pleasant, one of Time Out's coolest neighborhoods in the world, the park is a slice of peace in the buzzing capital. 

Why go? Home to more than 32 miles of hiking and biking trails, Rock Creek Park is beautiful in every season. Take off on a self-guided hike or walk, zoom through on a Capital Bikeshare, or book a ranger-led history, nature, or stars and planets program. Did we mention the park is also home to the Rock Creek Park Horse Center, the only public riding spot in the whole city?

What is it? This eight-story museum continuously draws huge crowds—it may be hard to get a ticket—but a visit is so worth it. The reverential collection pays tribute to the historical figures, moments and events that shaped the African American experience. Exhibits are thorough and plentiful (to truly experience it would take days), and new objects are being added constantly. You must reserve free, timed entry passes online to visit.

Why go? This is one the best museums on the National Mall. The way visitors experience it, which involves descending an elevator and rising through the building as you advance through time, is well thought out and makes the content even more profound. Exhibits are thorough and plentiful (to truly experience it would take days). Another bonus? The cafeteria, Sweet Home Cafe, caught the eyes of the James Beard Foundation, which named it a semi-finalist in the best new restaurant category in 2017.

What is it? The National Gallery of Art is a gargantuan museum located smack-dab on the National Mall that is a treasure trove of art and sculpture, and is one of the most visited museums in the world. A 6.1 acre outdoor Sculpture Garden is also part of the NGA campus and well-worth visiting.

Why go? The museum showcases an extensive collection of both traditional and modern art and is separated into two wings; the recently renovated East Building showcases an impressive collection of modern art, including Katharina Fritsch’s playful Hahn/Cock—a gigantic royal blue rooster perched on the roof. The West Building holds art from the 11th through 19th centuries. This is the spot to see works by Monet, El Greco, Van Gogh, and more. 

What is it? A brutal beauty on Indepndence Avenue, boasting a wealth of modern art.

Why go? This spectacular cylindrical building by Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill was completed in 1974 to house self-made Wall Street millionaire Joseph Hirshhorn’s collection of 20th-century paintings and sculptures. Today, it still operates as such, but it's open to all, and new pieces continue to be added. There is an impressive selection of Giacometti pieces to see and a pair of Willem de Kooning’s rare 'door paintings'. A particular highlight is Yoko Ono's 'A Wish Tree for Washington, D.C.', the branches of which you're encouraged to whisper your secrets and desires to.

What is it? Designed in a Neo Gothic style, the Washington National Cathedral is one of the tallest buildings in D.C., and certainly one of the prettiest. The grounds are home to lots of greenery and beautifully landscaped gardens, and the building itself contains ornate stained glass windows and stately architecture.

Why go? Whether you're religious or not, the National Cathedral is well-worth visiting for its beautiful grounds, stained glass windows, and architecture. The Cathedral also hosts all sorts of concerts and events. If you visit in May, try to time your visit around the annual Flower Mart, a beautiful garden sale and fundraiser that includes booths with vendors selling cut flowers, plants, seeds, food, and more. Be sure to stop by the quiet and serene Bishop's Garden, a calm retreat from the city.

Time Out tip: Start or end your visit with a little bruch or coffee at Open City's on-campus location. The local chain serves lattes, teas, smoothies, and healthy portions of treats like sandwiches and waffles topped with chocolate sauce and fruit. The setting of this cafe makes it a standout—be sure to look up to enjoy the dark wood beams, old windows, and domed ceiling. 

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What is it? This hopping French restaurant cost over $6 million to build, and it shows.

Why go? Le Diplomate both looks and feels like you’re in Europe: The floors have the perfect squeak, the bread baskets overflow and the burger comes with a miniature French flag staked on top. If you want to be the envy of all your dinner mates (and you’ve got money to burn), order a signature seafood tower that comes filled to the brim with glistening crustaceans of all sorts. All in all, it's a homage to arguably one of the best cuisines in the world. Bon appetit. 

What is it? Although it's been a bustling commercial district for centuries, today, this area is one of the most popular places in the city to go out for a drink or a bite to eat.

Why go? Also known as Barracks Row for its proximity to the Marine Barracks, Eighth Street SE in the Eastern Market neighborhood boasts plenty of restaurants. Head to Eastern Market Crepes, Barrel, or The Duck & The Peach. Walk across the street to Capitol Hill Books for some reading material or to Relume for homewares, plants, and crafts. For a fancier feel, head across the street to James Beard Award-winning cocktail spot The Wells. 

Time Out tip: Be sure to stop at The Market Lunch, a bustling and beloved local gem known for its hearty breakfasts. Try the blueberry buckwheat pancakes. 

What is it? Head to Columbia Heights to find this 12-acre park positioned due north of the White House along the longitudinal meridian of D.C.

Why go? The Park is filled with sculptures and memorials, including statues of Joan of Arc, Dante and James Buchanan, the 15th U.S. President. Pack a picnic and hang out in front of the Cascading Waterfall in the formal garden, or visit the upper mall area, where concerts and events are often staged. 

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What is it? Busboys & Poets is more than just a place to get lunch or have a coffee—it's a gathering place for the community.

Why go? Owner Anas "Andy" Shallal, an Iraqi-American artist, activist, and restaurateur, opened the flagship venue in 2005 and swiftly became a hub for D.C. progressives, including many anti-Iraq War activists. Today, Busboys & Poets has expanded to six DC locations, all hosting events such as open mic nights and exhibiting art by local, national, and international artists.

What is it? One of D.C.'s quirkiest luxury boutique hotels, the Mansion on O Street stands out for its eccentric decor and interior layout, which includes 32 secret doors.

Why go? The Mansion has a storied history, including a period during the 1930s in which it was used as rooming houses for FBI Director J. Edgar Hoover's G-men. Today, the Mansion is open to the public for tours, dining and shopping.

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What is it? The community-focused art center provides gallery walls and workspace for artists with disabilities to create.

Why go? Though it’s a bit off the beaten track (read: not on the National Mall), Art Enables is worth a visit. Works are available for purchase, with a lion’s share of the profit going directly to the artist. Art ranges from quirky (there’s one artist in the residence who focuses on painting shoes) to abstract. They also offer commissions. 

What is it? A giant Falls Church, VA strip mall that includes more than 125 Vietnamese shops and restaurants, Eden Center is the area's version of Little Saigon.

Why go? Eden Center is a must-stop for those who can't live without pho or bun cha. The chaotic parking lot, which is legendary among patrons both for the hassle and for its enchanting aroma of barbequed pork, is an essential part of the experience. Some of the best restaurants include Huong Viet, Thanh Truc and Hai Duong.

What is it? Union Market is an upscale food- and drink-focused "artisanal marketplace," with shops selling local and imported goods.

Why go? Unlike your typical farmer's market, Union Market is open every day, so if you have a midweek hankering for locally made cheese or extra virgin olive oil, you can come here to satisfy your urge. The space houses more than 30 artisans peddling everything from acai bowls to Korean tacos; you'll also find coffee, home goods, flowers and spices.

What is it? Key Bridge Boathouse in Georgetown is D.C.'s gateway to all things involving water, oars and paddles.

Why go? Key Bridge Boathouse offers canoe, kayak and standup paddleboard (SUP) rentals and classes, as well as twilight tours of the Potomac via kayak. On the tour, you'll pass various DC landmarks, including Teddy Roosevelt Island, the Watergate Hotel, the Lincoln Memorial and the Kennedy Center. 

What is it? Dinner, drinks and live entertainment from the comfort of your theater seat.

Why go? This imposing '30s Art Deco building is home to one of the quirkiest cinemas you're ever likely to attend. Within the theater are tables and plump, comfy armchairs—from here you can enjoy table service, as well as a movie or live comedy show. The menu comprises convenient finger foods like wraps, burgers, nachos and doughnut holes, while the drinks menu features a satisfying range of cocktails, draft beers and non-alcoholic options. Don't turn up expecting to catch the latest flicks, however, as this is a second-run cinema—with ticket prices to match.

What is it? Technically a research division of the Agriculture Department, this 446-acre haven always has many more trees than people, even on its busiest days during the spring azalea season.

Why go? Highlights include a boxwood collection, dwarf conifers, an Asian collection, a herb garden and “herbarium” of dried plants, as well as the National Bonsai Collection, which contains more than 300 trees. Also on display, somewhat incongruously, are 22 columns removed from the Capitol’s East Front during its 1958 expansion.

What is it? Even though it spans 20 acres, this nature conservancy, situated between Cleveland Park and Woodley Park remains a hidden wonder in the heart of D.C.

Why go? The non-profit Tregaron Conservancy owns and protects the site of a century-old, neo-Georgian estate formerly known as The Causeway (and now as Tregaron Estate) and its surroundings. Visitors can roam the grounds of the conservancy for no charge, seven days a week (but donations are welcome).

What is it? Relax with a picnic lunch, or just take in the green surroundings at this Kahlil Gibran Memorial.

Why go? This bronze sculpture, designed by Gordon Kray and erected at 3100 Massachusetts Avenue in 1983, honors the late Lebanese American poet Kahlil Gibran. Lines from his work are also engraved around the piece.

What is it? The Company's mission focuses on promoting edgy, challenging plays in order to engage the D.C. community.

Why go? Your coolest, artsiest friends have probably been to the Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company a bunch of times since its founding in 1980, but it's not too late to jump on the bandwagon. The small size of the theater allows every theatergoer to get a clear, unobstructed view of the stage, leading to an intimate, enhtralling communal experience.

What is it? When stressed-out D.C. folks need to unplug, they had to this Korean Spa in Annandale. 

Why go? You'll be doing your relaxation in the nude, but you would be surprised by how quickly you become comfortable in your birthday suit. (And don't fret—Sun's Day Spa is gender-segregated). Start off with a relaxing soak or sauna session, then indulge in some of the spa's excellent full-body treatments. The scrubs are legendary for removing every last bit of dead skin from your body.

What is it? This scenic area is renowned for starting the American Quarter Horse breed and hosting the oldest horse show in the country.  

Why go? Though Virginia's horse country is only 50 miles south of D.C., it might as well be on another planet. You can take a drive through the peaceful green foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, stop at a vineyard or two to taste wine or go riding on one of many public access horse trails. 

What is it? Where else but in D.C.'s Air & Space Museum can you see missiles, aircraft and space stations, all without stepping outside the city limits?

Why go? The museum's central Milestones of Flight hall, towering U.S. Pershing-II and Soviet SS-20 nuclear missiles, stand next to the popular moon rock station, where visitors can touch a lunar sample acquired on the 1972 Apollo 17 mission. Permanent exhibitions in the museum detail the history of jet aviation, space travel and satellite communications. For a closer look (and to improve your knowledge of the universe), head to the public observatory for inspiring views of the sky. If the weather isn't permitting you to star-study, make a beeline for the Albert Einstein planetarium instead, where you'll be launched into a journey through space regardless of the outside elements.

What is it? Once a tiny, art-scene dive renowned for its heat (and smell), the 9:30 Club now boasts state-of-the-art sound (and ventilation).

Why go? The club features an eclectic mix of artists and a few long-lived (or reunited) punk and post-punk bands have played here, including Wire, the Feelies and Mission of Burma. Make sure to arrive early and scope out the best vantage point to ensure a good view. All that headbanging giving you hunger pangs? No worries: whip out your wallet and buy some of the tasty tidbits on offer, from salads and pizzas to burgers and cupcakes.

What is it? The vast collection represents the physical record of the birth and growth of a nation in original documents, maps, photos, recordings, films and a miscellany of artifacts.

Why go? This is your only chance to see some of the country's most prized artifacts, including maps of Lewis and Clark’s explorations, the gun that shot JFK and the Charters of Freedom (the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence). Just search the catalog, and you'll be exploring thousands of years of history in no time.

What is it? It is the right of anyone killed in action in any branch of military service, or who served for 20 years, to be buried at Arlington, along with their spouse.

Why go? Time has worked its healing magic and transformed Arlington into a place of honor and memory. There's much to see here, so start by paying your respects to the imposing marble amphitheater at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. The changing of the guard on the hour remains moving in its reverent precision.

What is it? Located at the highest point in Georgetown, this offshoot of Harvard University is more than just a library.

Why go? Dumbarton Oaks also has lovely historic gardens, an art museum and a music room, which is the site of frequent lectures and concerts. The Research Library focuses on Byzantine, Pre-Columbian and Garden & Landscape Studies, and includes a rare book collection. Strolling among the many enclosed gardens, paths and terraces would make for an enchanting afternoon.

What is it? Since 1958, Ben's Chili Bowl has been a DC landmark and is the birthplace of the legendary half-smoke.

Why go? When it comes to D.C. cuisine, half-smokes reign supreme. Distinct from hot dogs, these sausages blend half beef and half pork (hence the name), typically smoked and then grilled. At Ben’s, we suggest going all out with the works, that means a generous heaping of chili. 

What is it? Blues Alley Club, an iconic jazz hotspot, has been a Georgetown staple for years.

Why go? Since 1965, Blues Alley has stood as the nation's oldest continuously operating jazz supper club. Grab a meal and catch a show at this beloved neighborhood venue, where Ella Fitzgerald, Dizzy Gillespie, and Charles Mingus have all at one time played sets.