Did you know that over 700,000 people live in Washington, D.C.?
The nation’s capital offers an endless array of opportunities for visitors and locals alike! From museums to monuments, you’re bound to find what you’re looking for in D.C.
But what if you’re searching for something that’s less popular among tourists? Well, there are plenty of unusual locations in D.C. too.
Keep reading below for six unique things to do in Washington, D.C. today.
1. Tregaron Conservancy
Whether you’re browsing condos for sale in the city or just passing through, the crowded streets of D.C. can get overwhelming. For nature lovers, the Tregaron Conservancy is a welcome reprieve.
The Tregaron Conservancy is open every day of the week, and visitors are encouraged to explore the wild gardens and wildflower meadows on the grounds.
2. Lesser-Known Museums: The Phillips Collection
The Phillips Collection is actually the country’s oldest modern art museum. The museum has a permanent collection of nearly 3,000 works by American and European impressionists and modernists. The museum features works from artists such as Goya, van Gogh, Monet, and Renoir.
The museum is unique in its presentation as well—Duncan Phillips, the founder, arranged the galleries to reflect common artistic expressions he recognized, rather than in a traditional chronological fashion. Adding to the charm and intimacy, the museum is located in a restored mansion and adjacent former apartment building.
3. Union Market
A visit to Union Market is one of the best unique things to do in Washington, D.C. for foodies. Unlike typical farmers markets, Union Market is open every day of the week except Monday.
Union Market is the perfect place to get a taste of the local culture. Along with serving every food imaginable, Union Market also showcases art for visitors to browse.
4. Unique Things to Do in Washington, D.C. for Couples: Spanish Steps
The Spanish Steps (more formally known as Decatur Terrace) in DC are located on 22nd Street NW and are a nod to the Spanish Steps in Rome.
This terrace features a stairway, a fountain, and a panoramic terrace at the top. It’s the perfect place for couples to enjoy a quiet moment or to snap a few photos for Instagram!
5. Arlington Cinema and Drafthouse
This unique cinema has been running since the 1930s. It has an old-school vibe, and you can even order snacks and concessions tableside.
The cinema hosts both typical movies as well as comedy shows. Living up to its name as a drafthouse, the house menu also includes a variety of alcoholic beverages to enjoy during the show.
6. The Hidden Smithsonian Museum: The National Postal Museum
If you’ve already checked out the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History, give a look at one of the lesser-known Smithsonian museums: the Smithsonian National Postal Museum.
This museum chronicles the history of the U.S. postal system. You’ll find everything from stamp galleries to historical postal vehicles to exhibits on wartime postal services. It’s worth checking out if you’re on a museum tour of the city!
Exploring the City
No matter the climate, Washington, D.C. is a bustling place. There’s always something exciting waiting around the corner, even if you’ve exhausted the well-known tourist hotspots. The above list of unique things to do in Washington, D.C. will help you get started on your own eclectic journey around the city.
For more articles like this, check out the rest of our website.