Dupont Circle blends historic elegance with contemporary energy in the heart of Washington D.C. Grand embassy mansions line tree-canopied streets while eclectic shops and cafes buzz with activity. The iconic fountain serves as a lively gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Explore world-class art at The Phillips Collection or wander through charming bookstores. The neighborhood's walkable streets connect diverse dining options and vibrant LGBTQ+ venues. With the Metro station centrally located, iconic D.C. attractions remain just minutes away.
Georgetown's cobblestone streets and Federal-style townhomes transport you to America's early days. The historic Old Stone House stands as a testament to colonial craftsmanship. Upscale boutiques along M Street showcase designer goods while waterfront restaurants offer stunning Potomac River views. Georgetown University adds youthful energy to this prestigious neighborhood. Wander the scenic C&O Canal towpath for a peaceful escape from city life. The Georgetown Waterfront Park provides perfect spots for people-watching and river gazing. Despite its upscale reputation, the area maintains authentic charm through its brick sidewalks and gas-style streetlamps.
Capitol Hill blends historic grandeur with everyday DC charm. The iconic Capitol dome rises above tree-lined streets where 19th-century rowhouses create a storybook neighborhood. Wander past the Supreme Court and Library of Congress to discover local life beyond the political landmarks. Eastern Market buzzes with weekend vendors selling fresh produce and handmade crafts. Cozy cafes and neighborhood pubs offer perfect spots to refuel after exploring world-class museums. Both Capitol South and Eastern Market metro stations make getting around the city remarkably simple.
Downtown Washington D.C. blends powerful politics with remarkable cultural treasures. The White House and historic Ford's Theatre stand alongside world-class museums like the Smithsonian American Art Museum. Wide, tree-lined avenues connect neoclassical buildings housing federal agencies and international organizations. Explore Chinatown's vibrant streets or admire the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle's stunning architecture. The National Mall offers formal gardens and iconic monuments just steps away. McPherson Square and Farragut West metro stations make navigating this walkable neighborhood simple and convenient.
Foggy Bottom blends historic charm with modern institutional grandeur. The Kennedy Center's marble terraces overlook the Potomac while George Washington University brings youthful energy to the neighborhood. Watergate's curved balconies and Federal-style rowhouses create a distinctive architectural landscape alongside global institutions like the World Bank. This academic and diplomatic hub offers excellent connectivity via the Foggy Bottom-GWU metro station. Visitors can explore museums, monuments, and the scenic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal during the day. The neighborhood transforms at night with upscale hotel bars and world-class performances at the Kennedy Center.
Discover the most popular places to visit in Washington
National Mall
9.4/10 (20,772 reviews)
America's most significant public space features iconic monuments and world-class museums along tree-lined paths. Stroll between the Lincoln Memorial and Capitol Building, experiencing the heart of American democracy.
White House
8.6/10 (21,999 reviews)
The White House stands as America's most iconic presidential residence, hosting every commander-in-chief since 1800. Tour the East Wing and State Rooms for a glimpse into the heart of American democracy.
Walter E. Washington Convention Center
8.4/10 (3,888 reviews)
This modern downtown venue houses an impressive public art collection of 120+ pieces amid its vast event spaces. Explore the art between convention sessions or catch special events like the National Book Festival.
Smithsonian Institution
9.6/10 (1,646 reviews)
The Smithsonian boasts 19 museums and a zoo in the world's largest museum complex, showcasing treasures from the Hope Diamond to the Star-Spangled Banner. Start at The Castle to plan your visit.
Capital One Arena
9.0/10 (8,291 reviews)
Home to the Wizards and Capitals, this premier arena hosts over 220 events annually in Washington DC's Penn Quarter. Arrive via Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro for the best experience at concerts, games, and performances.
United States Capitol
9.2/10 (12,552 reviews)
The U.S. Capitol stands as democracy's architectural masterpiece, crowned by its iconic Freedom-topped dome. Tours reveal the majestic Rotunda and National Statuary Hall, glimpses into America's legislative heart.
Nationals Park
9.2/10 (1,466 reviews)
Catch an event at Nationals Park during your trip to Washington. Add the area's shops or notable monuments to your travel plans.
Smithsonian's National Zoo
9.0/10 (1,819 reviews)
Home to over 2,200 animals across 400 species, the Smithsonian's National Zoo combines conservation with interactive exhibits. Arrive early to catch the giant pandas at their most active during the cooler morning hours.
What to do in Washington
One day tour Washington & Philadelphia from New York
"We were very disappointed in our room. The shower curtain does not keep the water in so we were left with cold puddles on the bathroom floor and the bed is super hard & uncomfortable leaving us with achey backs all day. We were also disappointed by the view of a brick wall after selecting the premium level room. After contacting customer service we were offered a bath mat or a move to a different room. It was too much to relocate and the bath mat was never delivered. On a positive note the...
"Had to book a room post flight being cancelled at 11:45pm, caught shuttle service at 12:10 on their last lap, driver was polite and front desk cheery and gave out water bottles. Morning breakfast was decent and snagging shuttle back for my flight was smooth.
Room was clean and updated shower made for a great experience."
"We booked a king suite with sofa pullout bed. The room was very very small. You don't have space to walk through.
Breakfast is okay and the staffs were very courteous. The parking is very hectic on the weekends."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Offering excellent value package deals on Expedia, you'll be surprised at how little a vacation to Washington costs! Our packages make travel planning easier and your savings go further.
What are the cheapest months to go to Washington?
You can usually find reduced prices and greater availability in December, January and February. Check out our cheap Washington vacation packages and you could score some excellent off-season deals.
How many days is enough for Washington?
Allow at least 3 days for your Washington vacation in order to enjoy all that makes this destination unique. Stroll around key neighborhoods, including Downtown Washington D.C. And Crystal City. Then check out major sights like Smithsonian's National Zoo and National Museum of African American History and Culture. With a well-planned itinerary, you can keep busy with room for some relaxation too. Want to travel outside of Washington? Consider a day trip or two.
Is it worth booking a vacation package to Washington?
Boasting a host of highlights starting with its amazing history, Washington is a good vacation destination. Whether you want to visit sights such as National Mall and White House or take the road less traveled, you'll find plenty to see and do on your Washington vacation.
How to find the best Washington package deals?
Use Expedia's filters to help you find some tempting Washington package deals. When you start your search, simply set your maximum budget and then order the results by "Price: low to high." If you're looking to save, plan your adventure for midweek, or look for Washington package deals in the off-season. Switch up your travel dates and you may land even better discounts. As a rule of thumb, it's usually best to lock in your vacation package as early as possible.
Is it cheaper to book a Washington vacation as a package?
You can enjoy significant savings on your Washington break by booking a personalized vacation package. Check the "Package" heading, then select your travel dates and destination to view the best hotel and flight prices. Bundle everything into a neat package and you can save hundreds of dollars. Consider adding a car rental and you may land a better deal.
When to book a vacation package to Washington?
If you have your Washington vacation dates locked in, book as early as you can to score some outstanding deals. With Expedia, you can typically reserve some flights up to one year in advance. Prefer spontaneous adventures? Our last-minute deals are perfect for impromptu escapes.
How to plan a trip to Washington?
Pick the right time to travel: Your schedule, favorite season and the type of weather you enjoy can all impact your decision on when to go to Washington.
Set a budget: Consider costs such as flights, meals and transportation when calculating how much to save for your trip to Washington. Then, pick a hotel that works with your budget, whether that's an economical stay or a lavish retreat.
Decide your trip length: Think about how much time you'd like to spend discovering Washington. Plan your days so you can get to all the experiences and attractions you're interested in at a leisurely pace.
Combine your flights and hotel: Awesome destination, check. Length of stay, check. Now all that's left is to pick a Washington vacation package that brings all your bookings together.
For a delightful shopping experience in Washington, visit L'Enfant Plaza, offering a vibrant mix of business and entertainment. CityCenterDC boasts a range of shops with a family-friendly atmosphere. Don't miss Union Market, a lively public market filled with unique gifts and local produce.
Recreation
Capital One Arena buzzes with sports energy, offering an exhilarating atmosphere for fans. For a more tranquil experience, the Bald Eagle Recreation Center invites you to unwind amidst nature, featuring peaceful walking paths and green spaces perfect for relaxation. SECU Stadium also delivers vibrant sports excitement for enthusiasts.
Adventure
Explore Soapstone Valley Park, where you can hike through lush trails surrounded by nature's beauty. Experience the thrill of The Capital Wheel, offering panoramic views of the city. Engage in fun activities at the Southeast Tennis & Learning Center, perfect for adventure enthusiasts seeking an active day.
Nightlife
Washington's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Explore the buzz at The Wharf, where waterfront bars offer refreshing cocktails. For live music, visit U Street Corridor, home to fantastic venues like The 9:30 Club, showcasing local and national acts. Enjoy a night of dancing at the iconic Howard Theatre.
Find the best attractions in Washington
Washington, D.C. offers a fantastic blend of family-friendly activities, cultural experiences, and outdoor adventures. Visitors can explore a variety of attractions, including urban parks, memorials, and museums that cater to diverse interests. Whether you're seeking iconic landmarks or a taste of the city's rich history, Washington provides a captivating experience for every traveller. Don't miss the chance to discover the top attractions that make this capital city truly remarkable.
White House: The iconic residence of the President of the United States, the White House is a symbol of American history and government. Visitors can appreciate its neoclassical architecture and rich cultural significance, embodying the nation's political spirit.
National Mall: A vast expanse of greenery, the National Mall is a national treasure featuring monuments, memorials, and museums. Enjoy leisurely strolls and outdoor adventures while soaking in the stunning views of historic landmarks, making it a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration.
Georgetown University: Founded in 1789, this prestigious institution boasts beautiful Gothic architecture and a vibrant campus atmosphere. Immerse yourself in its rich academic history and cultural heritage, surrounded by charming shops and eateries in the historic Georgetown neighbourhood.
Best time to go to Washington
The best time to visit Washington can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Washington falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Washington falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.
Tips to save on your trip to Washington
Combine your flights, hotels and car rentals on Expedia—bundling can result in significant savings.
Consider traveling during the off-peak season (typically December to February) for more affordable package holidays to Washington.
Use the Price per traveler filter on Expedia to find a package deal that suits your budget.
Check the VIP Access properties filter to discover outstanding hotels with added member perks at select properties.
* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages.