1. Explore the Smithsonian Museums

Date: Daily throughout August

Location: National Mall, Washington, DC

Discover world-class museums including:

National Air and Space Museum

National Museum of Natural History

National Museum of American History

National Museum of African American History and Culture

Admission: Free

Website: https://www.si.edu

2. Walk the National Mall & Memorials

Dates: Daily (best early morning or evening)

Location: National Mall

Visit some of DC’s most famous landmarks:

Lincoln Memorial

Washington Monument

World War II Memorial

Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Website: https://www.nps.gov/nama

3. Attend the Library of Congress National Book Festival

Date: Saturday, August 22, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center

Enjoy author talks, children’s activities, book discussions, and exhibits. This free event is perfect for families and book lovers.

Website: https://www.loc.gov/events/2026-national-book-festival/

4. Enjoy Sunset Cinema at The Wharf

Date: Wednesdays in August

August 5 – Roman Holiday

August 12 – 10 Things I Hate About You

August 19 – F1

August 26 – Project Hail Mary

Time: Movies begin around 7:30 PM

Location: The Wharf, 735 Water Street SW, Washington, DC

Bring a blanket or lawn chair and enjoy free outdoor movies by the waterfront.

Website: https://www.wharfdc.com

5. Visit the Smithsonian National Zoo

Date: Daily throughout August

Location: 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC

See giant pandas, elephants, lions, gorillas, and more. A great activity for families with children.

Admission: Free

Website: https://nationalzoo.si.edu

6. Experience Summer Restaurant Week

Date: August 24–30, 2026

Participating restaurants throughout Washington, DC

Enjoy special prix-fix menus at some of DC’s best restaurants with lunch, brunch, and dinner options.

Website: https://www.ramw.org/restaurantweek

7. Explore Georgetown Waterfront

Date: Daily throughout August

Location: Georgetown, Washington, DC

Things to enjoy:

Scenic Potomac River views

Shopping along M Street

Restaurants and cafés

Walking trails

Sunset views

Website: https://washington.org

8. Visit the U.S. Capitol & Library of Congress

Date: Daily (reservations recommended)

Location: Capitol Hill

Explore:

U.S. Capitol Building

Capitol Visitor Center

Beautiful interiors of the Library of Congress

Capitol Tours: https://www.visitthecapitol.gov

Library of Congress: https://www.loc.gov

9. Enjoy the Kennedy Center Millennium Stage

Date: Daily (check schedule)

Location: John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Enjoy free performances including:

Music

Dance

Theater

Cultural performances

The rooftop terrace also offers beautiful views of the Potomac River.

Website: https://www.kennedy-center.org

10. Take a Potomac River Cruise

Date: Daily throughout August

Location: Departures from The Wharf and Georgetown

Relax while enjoying views of:

Washington Monument

Jefferson Memorial

Georgetown waterfront

DC skyline

Website: https://www.cityexperiences.com/washington-dc/

More Places to visit:

United States Botanic Garden – https://www.usbg.gov

Planet Word Museum – https://planetwordmuseum.org

Yards Park Splash Fountain – https://www.capitolriverfront.org

National Gallery of Art – https://www.nga.gov