Embrace the Festival Spirit

Kick off your fall adventure by immersing yourself in the city's vibrant festival scene. H Street Festival, Adams Morgan Day, and Oktoberfest at The Wharf, all occur in the month of September and offer an array of music, food, and family-friendly activities. For wine enthusiasts, the Fall Wine Festival & Sunset Tour at George Washington’s estate October 6-8 offers the perfect blend of history and viticulture.

Savor DC’s Diverse Culinary Scene

DC's culinary scene offers an array of options to tantalize your taste buds. Indulge in the lobster bucatini at The Pembroke, the spicy miso ramen at Daikaya, the saffron chicken wings at Rumi’s Kitchen, the garlic knots at Reveler’s Hour, the sushi counter at Shoto, the fire roasted squash and grilled oysters at Bar Spero, or the chef’s family table menu at Iron Gate, to name a few.

Enjoy an Evening at an Embassy

Did you know that the nation’s capital is a melting pot of international cultures? With over 175 embassies nestled within its borders, Washington boasts a unique opportunity for cultural immersion. Throughout the year, these diplomatic residences graciously open their doors to offer a captivating array of events. From sumptuous food and wine gatherings to captivating musical evenings, there's something for every explorer's palate. Partnering with esteemed organizations like the International Club DC, many embassies present their heritage through vibrant collaborations. Immerse yourself in captivating evenings, including a harmonious musical event at the Embassy of Latvia on September 7^th, a Garden Soiree at the French Embassy on September 15 and Viennese Waltz lessons at the Austrian Embassy on October 12. Washington's diplomatic scene invites you to savor global experiences without ever leaving the city.

Immerse Yourself in DC’s Vibrant Music Scene

From legends like Peter Gabriel and Aerosmith to contemporary favorites like the Jonas Brothers, Hozier, Macklemore and Tove Lov, DC's fall concert lineup is diverse and exciting. Immerse yourself in DC's rich music scene, spanning from iconic dive bars to electrifying stadium shows. For a comprehensive musical journey, delve into our guide to live music in the DMV.

Treat Your Yourself to Retail Therapy in Georgetown

Explore the charming Georgetown neighborhood for a shopping experience that caters to every taste. From well-known brands like Glossier, Diptyque and Tuckernuck, to local boutiques like Shop Made DC, Everard's Clothing and SCOUT, to unique antique stores including Cote Jardin Antiques and Pillar and Post, Georgetown offers some of the best shopping in the city. Don't miss the opportunity to find unique treasures and stylish pieces to take home.

Explore Eastern Market

Stroll through the historic Eastern Market, a Capitol Hill gem with roots dating back to 1873. Uncover an array of offerings from local artisans, encompassing arts, crafts, clothing, and cuisine. For book lovers, a visit to Capitol Hill Books, a charming second-hand bookstore with an eclectic collection, is a must. Indulge in Market Lunch's famed buckwheat blueberry pancakes, and grab a coffee from Wine & Butter to accompany a leisurely walk around this quintessential DC neighborhood.

Set Sail on the Potomac

Experience the city from a new perspective by taking a water taxi across the Potomac River to Old Town Alexandria, a nationally designated historic district founded in 1749. For a luxurious cruise, consider reserving a spot on Cru Classé, a modern sailing yacht. Indulge in chef-curated pairings of prestige Champagne and wine, accompanied by coastal cuisine, all while enjoying the scenic beauty of the Potomac.

Discover World-Class Museums

When we surveyed our staff for their top museum recommendations in DC, four exceptional institutions emerged as favorites. For aviation enthusiasts, the National Air and Space Museum’s Udvar-Hazy Center is a must-visit. Here, an extraordinary collection of aviation and space artifacts await your exploration including the iconic space shuttle Discovery and the remarkable Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, a long-range reconnaissance aircraft. Closer to the heart of the city, the recently renovated National Air and Space Museum provides a captivating experience across its eight new galleries.

Another favorite by our staff is National Gallery Night at the National Gallery of Art. This sought-after after-hours program animates the East Building with themed evenings featuring music, live performances, artmaking, pop-up talks, and more. Due to its immense popularity, securing advance tickets is essential through a lottery system occurring a week before each event—opening on Monday and closing on Thursday at noon.

And finally, no excursion to Washington, DC would be complete without a visit to the National Museum of African American History & Culture. A marvel of design and curation, this museum stands as the nation's largest and most comprehensive cultural hub dedicated exclusively to chronicling, documenting, and showcasing the African American narrative and its profound impact on American and global history. Boasting a collection of nearly 41,000 artifacts, you can explore 3,000 items showcased across six engaging floors, capturing the essence of a transformative journey.

Workout at Sunrise with Washingtonians

Join the November Project and fellow locals for an invigorating workout against the iconic backdrop of the Lincoln Memorial every Wednesday at 6:20 am, or at the Peace Monument on Capitol Hill at 6:30 am. With a rich history spanning nine years, this group brings together individuals of varying fitness levels and ages for an inspiring and cost-free workout session. A great way to start the day, you'll experience a breathtaking sunrise over the Washington Monument and U.S. Capitol that can’t be beat.

Master the Art of Mahjong 

Learn to play mahjong while enjoying delectable dim sum at Sparrow Room across the river in Virginia. A unique way to unwind and learn a new skill during your visit.

Uncover the Secrets and Intrigue of Embassy Row

Step into the world of espionage with a captivating 90-minute spy-themed walking tour of Embassy Row, expertly led by former intelligence officers. For those intrigued by the intricacies of intelligence, your adventure doesn't end there – delve deeper at the International Spy Museum. Uncover the largest public display of international espionage artifacts, making it a must-visit destination for anyone fascinated by the world of secret agents and covert operations.

Experience Panda-monium at the National Zoo

For a family-friendly activity, visit The National Zoo to catch a glimpse of the famous giant pandas before they depart back to China in November.

Raise a Glass at a Virginia Winery

Escape the city for a day and discover Virginia's renowned wineries, including Stone Tower Winery, RdV Vineyards, and Crimson Lane Vineyards.  These destinations, located an hour outside of the city, promise not only picturesque landscapes but also an opportunity to savor exceptional wines that have gained recognition.

Embark on an Adventure in the Great Outdoors

Embrace the natural beauty of Washington, DC, and its surrounding areas with invigorating outdoor activities. Embark on a cycling adventure along the picturesque Mount Vernon Trail, immerse yourself in the scenic wonders of Rock Creek Park, located just steps from the hotel, or elevate your outdoor experience with a hike through the captivating trails of Great Falls Park. If you're in the mood for a leisurely hike, the Virginia side of the park comes highly recommended. For a more challenging trek (albeit a bit strenuous), the Billy Goat Trail offers an adventure not meant for the faint of heart as you navigate your way over rugged boulders. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast, a nature lover, or an avid hiker, these outdoor excursions offer a perfect opportunity to connect with the city’s abundance of green spaces.

Indulge in the Richness of DC’s coffee culture

Washington, DC is a haven for coffee enthusiasts, boasting a vibrant and diverse caffeinated culture. With an abundance of fantastic coffee shops, the city offers a delightful journey through various flavors and atmospheres Immerse yourself in the local scene by exploring favorites like Emissary, where the alluring aroma of freshly brewed coffee envelops the air, setting the stage for you to savor your cup of choice. As day transitions into evening, Emissary seamlessly transforms into a cozy wine bar, offering a seamless blend of experiences. Blank Street beckons with its cozy setting, perfect for savoring artisanal blends while indulging in moments of relaxation. For a truly heartwarming experience, Bitty & Beau's Coffee stands out as more than just a coffee shop—it's a beacon of inclusivity, fostering an environment that embraces and empowers individuals with disabilities. As you traverse DC's coffee landscape, you'll discover each café's unique character and offerings, making your journey a memorable exploration of both flavor and community.