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Capitol Washington dc, PHOTO BY Mathieu Landretti

10 Non-Touristy things to do in Washington, D.C.

Washington DC is an extraordinary city to visit. It has loads of adventures, a working federal city, an international metropolis, picturesque tourist destinations, an unmatched treasury of the country’s history, and also artifacts to offer.

Washington, D.C. is considered a cultural center of the U.S. because of the many National Historic Landmarks, museums, and historic places such as the Capitol and White House. Washington, D.C. is home to the National Mall which is a large park within the city

There are so many things to do in Washington DC that it should take you a very long time to get bored in this city, no matter what your interests are. Here are 10 non-touristy things to do in Washington D.C.

  1. Hop on a Boat Ride in Georgetown

Georgetown Waterfront, photo by Elisa Rolle

Summer is the perfect time to go boating. Georgetown offers plenty of options. From boozy boats to elegant dinner cruises by the DC skyline, or simple tourist water taxis, there’s something for every kind of visitor here. Many tour companies offer boat tours in DC.

2. Visit the nation’s oldest miniature golf course

 The East Potomac Park Mini Golf is the oldest operating miniature golf course. It is located in Washington, D.C. The East Potomac park min golf is located right next to the grounds of the Jefferson Memorial. Although it’s not as fancy as newer courses are kind of cool to be able to say that you played at the nation’s oldest mini-golf course, which just also happens to be the only outdoor mini-course in all of D.C. as well.

3. Visit the National Arboretum in DC

National Arboretum in June, photo by D C Gardens

The National Arboretum is a popular spot. That one probably finds the First Capitol Columns. The is recommended place to visit since it is worth going though most people on a trip to DC don’t make it here. The columns are an arrangement of twenty-two Corinthian columns that were a part of the United States Capitol from 1828 to 1958. 

4. Explore the Meridian Hill Park 

There are 12 acres of fountains, gardens, and green space in Meridian Hill Park. The steps are modeled after the Spanish Steps in Rome. They offer beautiful views of the fountains and space. 

 It is a custom that every Sunday at 3 pm for 40 years, a drum circle happens.  it’s not only just drums but also includes a multicultural mix of drummers, dancers, tight-rope walkers, hula-hoopers, yogis, and jugglers. The scene normally invites positive and shows off what DC does best by bringing people together. It’s fun for the whole family.

5. Kayaking on the Potomac 

Kayaking, photo by Steve

Most tourists see the monuments of Washington, D.C. from the ground, but why not shake things up a little and see them from the water instead? With several rental and instructional centers located in and around Washington, D.C., you

Boating in DC is located right on the water in Georgetown. It offers kayaking, SUP, rowboat, and bike rentals. They are all available first-come, first-serve, or for reservations ahead of time. One gets to have great views of Georgetown, Roosevelt Island, and Arlington when kayaking here.

6. Katzen Art Gallery 

The Katzen Art Gallery is free to visit. It is located on American University’s campus.  Katzen art gallery hosts rotating exhibitions of contemporary art from around the globe. The Alper Initiative is a dedicated research and display space for the art history of Washington, DC.

7. Explore  and experience the magic of the Wharf

The Wharf on the Southwest Waterfront in Washington, D.C. Photo by Agnostic preacher kid

The Wharf is DC’s newest development and has some of the best views at sunset. The Whiskey Charley offers excellent views of the Capitol from its roof. It is located inside the Hilton. La Vie has happy hour specials. While the  Officiant has a massive patio with greenery that is pretty romantic.

The Wharf has transformed Washington D. C to be the most exciting waterfront destination. It has sustainable entertainment, dining and retail connect the rest of the district to the southwest.

 Some of the features accessible include the riverfront and the four different piers with each having its theme and activities.

8. Visit the National Harbor

The  National Harbor is the closest thing in DC. It is a home to different things and sights like casinos, fantastic dining options, and bustling walking areas. The National Harbor is a great place which is recommended to spend an evening.

The Ferris wheel is the most well-known sight in the National Harbor. It is also known as the Capital wheel. Riding of the wheel boast views of the Potomac River. It is fun to spend when you are at the National Harbor.

9. Go  and Enjoy a Walk in Rock Creek Park

-Rock Creek Park. photo by Farragutful

Rock Creek Park is among the CDC’s outdoor gems. It has  1,700+ acres of the forested park area in the middle of Washington DC. Rock creek park is perfect for the outdoor enthusiast or people who enjoy exploring urban green spaces.

There are trails here that go on for miles. It has miles that are worth spending a whole day. While enjoying the fresh air and walking through nature to the chaos of the city.

10. Enjoy Wine and Dine at a Historic Institution

A historic institution is a fascinating place. Once you step into a world of history and grandeur, with wood-paneled bars and tables, and furnishings that look like they’ve been around a century. When visiting  Martin’s Tavern in Georgetown, you can even request to sit at the table where JFK and Jackie got engaged.

D.C. is considered unique because it’s home to the Smithsonian. It has 16 museums in total scattered across the District. A number of them are featured as world-class institutions. They are usually open every day of the week, and even better, every single one is free.