Things to Do in Washington DC From Bonsai to Art Deco

4.7 (6,352)

Mon – Fri, 08:00 – 20:00; Sat – Sun, 08:00 – 17:00

3501 New York Ave NE

Historic Capitol Columns anchor the open lawns of the U.S. National Arboretum, where a quiet bonsai museum and shaded woods fill out the free grounds. Cyclists can ride a hilly 30-minute outer loop from the bikeshare station at the entrance, and weekday hours run until 8:00 PM.

4.7 (452)

Mon – Fri, 08:00 – 17:00

2101 Constitution Ave. NW

An outdoor Einstein statue greets guests at the National Academy of Sciences, a working research facility where art and science displays cover hallways, walls and ceilings. Public lectures and conferences run inside. Interior entry is free with an appointment, tour sign-up or event registration via the C Street entrance.

4.4 (434)

730 21st Street, NW

Late Art Deco architecture frames Lisner Auditorium, a column-free 1,400-seat theater on the GW campus in Foggy Bottom. Keynotes, dance troupes and concerts use full multimedia production, staging and lighting, a renovated lobby leads inside, and public ticket prices vary by show.

4.8 (240)

Mon – Sun, Open 24 hours

227 Harry Thomas Way NE

Beside the Metropolitan Branch Trail, Alethia Tanner Park gives joggers, bikers and commuters 2.5 acres of lawn and a small stage. A playground and a dedicated dog park sit on site, and free community events bring art installations, festivals and live music.