Last Updated on January 15, 2025
If you’re looking for things to do in Washington, DC, for spring break besides museums, you’ve come to the right place. While the city’s cultural treasures are spectacular, there’s a whole spectrum of other exciting activities that can be explored if museums aren’t your thing. From scenic parks to delicious bites, we’ve got you covered with the best things to do beyond typical museum visits. Let’s dive into a spring break adventure that promises memories as vibrant as the cherry blossoms lining the National Mall.
Tons of tourists visit DC during the spring, so we’ve compiled a list of the top ten places to explore that won’t be as overcrowded. While many museums showcase the country’s history, this list aims to present attractions that will allow you to experience DC in a new light.
Here’s my list of Spring Break DC: Top 10 Best Things to do…Besides Museums:
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1. Tour Howard University’s Historic Campus
Howard University, a private, historically Black university in Northwest DC, boasts a stunning campus with historical landmarks. Key attractions include the Andrew Rankin Memorial Chapel, Fredrick Douglass Memorial Hall, and the iconic Founder’s Library. Spring is the perfect time to stroll through the campus’s lush grounds and soak in its rich history.
2. Marvel at the DC Cherry Blossoms
Spring in DC is synonymous with cherry blossoms, and if your trip coincides with their peak bloom, you’re in for a visual feast. With over 3,000 cherry trees, the National Cherry Blossom Festival celebrates this annual spectacle with events throughout the city. Don’t miss iconic spots like the Tidal Basin, where the blossoms are most vibrant. Check the peak bloom status here.
3. Hop on a Big Bus Tour of DC
Avoid the crowds and explore the city in comfort with a Big Bus tour. This open-top bus experience offers flexibility, allowing you to hop on and off at major landmarks. Choose from one-day, two-day, or night tours to enjoy DC’s iconic sights, including the National Mall and beyond.
4. Explore DC’s Monuments at Night
Experience a new perspective on DC’s monuments by visiting them at night. With fewer crowds and dramatic lighting, landmarks like the Lincoln Memorial and Jefferson Memorial take on an enchanting glow. Many of the monuments in DC have strategically placed lights for a more dramatic illusion. A nighttime visit offers a quieter, more serene way to appreciate these historic sites.
5. Catch a Show at the Kennedy Center
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a living memorial in 1964 to honor President John F. Kennedy. Its mission is to share music, opera, dance, and other art forms from all over America and other countries. It’s home to world-class performances, including music, opera, and dance. From Broadway hits to international artists, the Kennedy Center is a must-visit for performing arts lovers.
6. Explore The District Wharf
Located only four blocks from the National Mall and often listed as one of the top things to do, The District Wharf is a popular revitalized area. This mile-long stretch along the Potomac River now boasts more than 20 restaurants and bars, boutiques, a park, a 6,000-seat concert hall, and a few more intimate live music venues. The DC Wharf hosts several seasonal community events each year. It is an excellent option for a family-friendly day trip or an outdoor adventure on the Potomac.
7. Dine on a Potomac River Dinner Cruise
Combine sightseeing and dining with a Potomac River dinner cruise. These cruises offer stunning views of DC landmarks like the Washington Monument and National Harbor, along with three-course meals or buffet-style dining. Perfect for a romantic evening or a memorable family experience, these cruises typically last two to three hours.
8. Enjoy the Shops in the Historic Blagden Alley
Blagden Alley is lined with shops and restaurants in the historic Shaw neighborhood. This quaint area is excellent for a coffee break, shopping locally in a boutique, or grabbing a fresh sandwich at lunch. All the restaurants and stores are in beautifully restored historic buildings and great spots for photos.
9. Stroll Through Georgetown’s Picturesque Streets
Georgetown’s streets have picturesque mansions, boutique shops, restaurants, and bars. This area is chock-full of goodies if you’re a history wonk like myself. Wander along cobblestone sidewalks lined with 18th and 19th-century mansions, or explore boutique shops, bars, and restaurants. Outdoor enthusiasts can bike, jog, or kayak at Georgetown Waterfront Park, making it an ideal destination for any visitor.
10. Picnic at the National Arboretum
With 446 acres of beautiful landscaping, the U.S. National Arboretum should be a stop on everyone’s Washington, DC itinerary. It’s the home of the National Capitol Columns, 22 Corinthian columns that once supported a portion of the U.S. Capitol. The columns are a stunning fixture when the Arboretum is the backdrop. I also love to use this location for family photoshoots.
Plan Your Unique DC Adventure
Washington, DC, offers so much more than museums. From vibrant neighborhoods to breathtaking outdoor spots, these activities promise a spring break full of unforgettable memories. Whether admiring cherry blossoms or enjoying a dinner cruise, you’ll experience the city in a whole new way.
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