As holiday weekends approach, there’s no better destination to immerse yourself in history, culture, and excitement than Washington, DC. Whether you’re celebrating Victoria Day (May 18-20), Canada Day (June 29-July 1), the Civic Holiday (August 3-5), Labour Day (August 31-September 2) or if you’re planning to celebrate the Fourth of July festivities in the US, DC offers a captivating array of experiences tailored to each long weekend. From iconic landmarks like the National Mall and historic monuments to vibrant neighborhoods, world-class museums, and a diverse culinary scene, DC promises unforgettable adventures for every traveler.
Washington DC, a great destination for this summer!
We’ve narrowed down some jampacked three-day itineraries for your family and friends to consider in the nation’s capital during these upcoming holiday weekends. If you are interested in exploring a story idea further or a potential press trip opportunity, please get in touch!
- The Perfect Family Getaway in the Capital: Make the most out of your next family vacation in the nation’s capital over the long weekend, starting with a historic breakfast at the iconic Willard InterContinental and a day of exploration at the National Mall, where you can marvel at monuments and dive into Smithsonian Museumslike the National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture. As night falls, opt for a unique tour to witness the monuments in a different light. Day two leads to the charming streets of Georgetown, offering a delectable brunch at Martin’s Tavern, a tour through historic sites, and leisurely activities at Pinstripes by the C&O Canal. End the day with a culinary adventure at Georgetown’s renowned eateries. Finally, day three unveils Eastern Market’s breakfast delights before delving into the Capitol Riverfront‘s dynamic scene, from kayaking to baseball games and dining at acclaimed spots like Bluejacket and Ice Cream Jubilee for a sweet finale.
- Arts & Culture Delight: Sample DC’s thriving arts and culture scene – from bookworm adventures in Thomas Jefferson’s library to live performances and much more – starting with a panoramic tour via Big Bus Tour and visits to iconic landmarks like the Washington National Cathedral, the Library of Congress, and Dupont Circle‘s culinary delights. Day two unveils hidden gems such as Hillwood Estate for Russian Imperial artifacts and The Kreeger Museum‘s personal art collection. End the day with a private tour of the monuments by moonlight. On day three, savor fresh produce at FRESHFARM Market, explore modern art at The Phillips Collection, and indulge in an evening of culture with shows at the Kennedy Center or Wolf Trap for a memorable finale to your DC adventure.
- Learn about the Rich African American History and Heritage: Immerse yourself in a captivating journey through Washington, DC’s rich African American history and culture, beginning day one with poignant visits to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial and Lincoln Memorial, followed by a deep dive into African American heritage at the Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture. Pause for historical reflection at the Willard InterContinental Hotel and the White House before indulging in an evening of soul-stirring performances at The Howard Theatre. Day two delves further into this narrative, exploring landmarks like the African American Civil War Memorial and U Street’s vibrant Black Broadway scene, complete with a stop at iconic Ben’s Chili Bowl and a tour of Howard University. The journey concludes on day three with enriching experiences at the National Museum of African Art, Anacostia Community Museum, and an evening of thought-provoking entertainment at the Atlas Performing Arts Center, showcasing DC’s dynamic cultural tapestry.
- Plan the Ultimate Friend Weekend Trip in DC: Explore popular and vibrant neighborhoods, tour the National Mall and eat, play, or party your way through the city. Once your trip is through, you’re sure to realize that there’s only one DC. Embark on an exciting three-day adventure in Washington, DC, beginning with a Big Bus tour of the National Mall and a thrilling Undercover Mission at the International Spy Museum. Indulge in lunch at The Bullpen near Nationals Park and explore The Wharf‘s vibrant waterfront scene for dinner and entertainment at The Anthem or 12 Stories. Day two takes you to Union Market and La Cosecha in NoMa, followed by a bike ride along the DC’s Metropolitan Beer Trail and a serene visit to the U.S. National Arboretum. In the evening, enjoy group activities at Throw Social or Beat the Bomb before dinner at Ivy City Smokehouse and a dance concert at Echostage. Conclude your trip on day three with a visit to Dupont Circle Farmers’ Market and a stroll through Embassy Row, followed by a leisurely afternoon in Georgetown with a boat tour along the C&O Canal and shopping on M Street, ending with fun and games at Pinstripes.
- There’s Nothing Like Fourth of July in DC: Get ready for an unforgettable Independence Day celebration in Washington, DC, where fantastic fireworks and patriotic festivities await. Explore the city’s iconic landmarks and exciting events tailored for Independence Day. Discover the best spots to watch the fireworks against the stunning DC skyline, tune in to ‘A Capitol Fourth‘ concert, experience the Independence Day celebration at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, and explore the culinary capital with diverse dining options and rooftop views. Delve into DC’s rich history with visits to parks, gardens, monuments, and museums, including the National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. Don’t miss out on special events like daytime baseball at Nationals Park, hotel deals, and waterfront relaxation at the Capitol Riverfront and Georgetown.