Not a place for shopping, it's where you'll find some of America’s most famous buildings. The stroll along the open green space is the main hotshot along with the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument (the tall, pointy obelisk – can’t miss it.) With all this history squashed into one space, guided tours are recommended.

With 16 museums to choose from, all are free admission, you’ll have to be picky. The National Museum of Natural History is a crowd-pleaser (dinosaurs d’uh) in addition to The National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of American History. Whatever your interest, there’ll be a museum for it.

A bookworm’s must. 164 million books (not including the maps, manuscripts and other bits and bobs) make this the world’s largest library. Mosaics of mythical creatures and stained glass make for magnificent architecture. Swoop in for one of the free guided tours, if you can and see if you can find the secret underground tunnel.

Dating back to 1751 this neighbourhood is practically ancient by US standards. Fun fact: it’s older than Washington, DC. Nowadays, Georgetown is known for its cobblestone streets, swanky Michelin starred restaurants and bougie boutiques.

None of that ‘I don’t like sports,’ please. There’s no way that you won’t get swept up in the atmosphere. Football, ice hockey, baseball, basketball and soccer fixtures cover the whole year between them, so there’s always something to watch. Grab a hot dog, beer hat and a ticket to a game.

Walk down 17th Street in this DC neighbourhood for dozens of gay-owned businesses; bars, restaurants, galleries – you name it. A laid-back pocket in the capital and known for its ahead-of-the-crowd attitude, Dupont has sown an inclusive reputation (and chic vibe) in the LGBTQ community.

Sam Smith, these guys will give you a run for your money. 250 members belt their hearts out to audiences of thousands to promote equality both in DC and futher afield. It's one hell of a show. With sell out shows in iconic venues across DC and beyond, this is not one to miss!

Photo credit: Michael Key

Say cheers to the boldest brews proudly poured in DC. Red Bear Brewing Co. is owned by two redheads who love beer, bears, and the great outdoors. A fierce little taproom with big community feels, it’s been serving the NoMa neighborhood everything from craft beers to local cider, mead, and cocktails. Inclusive, inventive and welcoming -  this place pours personality into every glass.

Back in 1890, Congress decided DC needed a green escape - and Rock Creek Park was born. This urban gem sprawls 1,700 acres across the northwest region of DC. Dense hardwood forests, rocky vistas and trekking trails - it’s a park and playground mash-up. Join the locals and reconnect with nature without the hassle of leaving the city. 

Just across the Washington Channel from The Wharf is East Potomac Park, a 400-acre US National Park featuring three golf courses, a driving range, the nation's oldest putt-putt course, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, as well as bike paths and picnic tables.

During the warmer months, The Wharf operates a free Wharf Jitney service that ferries passengers from the end of Recreation Pier across the Washington Channel to East Potomac Park.

East Potomac Park is also home to the East Potomac Park Day Dock. This floating dock in the Washington Channel is the only publicly accessible dock on East Potomac Park. Dock your kayaks and paddleboards, and explore the park.

Welcome to the U.S. National Arboretum, your 446-acre escape from the grind of city life and daily dose of tranquility. They’re on a mission to show just how impactful plants are all year round. Plant mums and dads will want to see the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum for some inspo. And the best part? It won’t cost you a dime.