The nation’s capital is a bustling metropolis filled with history, political intrigues, patriotic sites, and must-see tours. However, if you’re not really into the traditional tourist activities, there are many other ways to experience Washington and the surrounding areas. In fact, if you step off the beaten path, you can actually experience D.C. like a native.
Get Pumped Up with Patriotic Sports
Image via Flickr by Scott Ableman
If you’re a sports fan, get the best Washington Nationals Tickets you can find and take yourself to Nationals Park. Baseball is America’s favorite pastime and there’s nothing like watching the Nationals play in the capital. While it’s also worth it to see the Wizards, the Capitals, or the Redskins, nothing beats D.C.’s baseball team. Try to catch a game where they go up against the Baltimore Orioles; although their rivalry is a friendly one, it’s still a hot competition. How about catching a foul ball in the capital?
Explore the Wonders of Lesser-Known Museums
Image via Flickr by Jeff Tabaco
Washington, D.C. has more than its share of museums, but while the Smithsonian is phenomenal and the National Air and Space Museum is awe-inspiring, there are so many other places to explore. If art is your thing, try The Phillips Collection, filled with some of the most notable art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The National Gallery of Art takes care of the 13th-18th centuries while the Hillwood Museum & Gardens features beautiful pieces collected by the Post cereal dynasty.
Are you especially interested in history? The Newseum is absolutely amazing, a must-see for anyone who wants to see both the history of journalism and the wonders of five hundred years’ worth of news in one building. For a deeply moving look at history, spend time in the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. You’ll feel forever changed after finishing your tour.
Support the Arts and Get Your Culture On
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Whether you like music, theatre, ballet, or opera, there’s something for you in D.C. The Wolf Trap Farm Park specializes in the performing arts, with outdoor facilities exclusively for the summer months. The Kennedy Center is another huge draw, well-known for its stunning theatrical shows. There are concerts, musicals, plays, and ballets, but make sure you book ahead of time—and never miss out on a performance by the National Symphony. Ford’s Theatre, the site of Lincoln’s assassination, is still in working order as well, so get a taste of culture and history.
Take In Nature at the Nation’s Capital
Image via Flickr by Kevin H.
In D.C. and nearby areas of Virginia, the landscape is breathtaking. You’d never believe that so much beauty exists right next to such a densely populated city. Great Falls, next to the Potomac, is a wonderful place to enjoy rock climbing, horseback, hiking, and many other activities. You can also explore the C & O Canal, where the bike trails and kayaking are both exciting and soothing. If you want to stay within the city, consider touring bustling, artsy, intelligent Georgetown. A visit to Alexandria takes you in the other direction: Old Town is alive with colonial experiences, even costumed performers.
There’s so much to see and do in D.C., don’t limit yourself to the traditional places. What’s your favorite thing to do in the capital?
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