5 Best Outdoor Attractions in Washington DC

Let me start by saying that there are literally a million amazing and free things to do in Washington DC! It is unbelievable how much you can do on a small budget here. However, when we went it was in summer of 2020 and majority of museums and indoor attractions were closed due to COVID-19.

That being said, we made the most of it and saw as much outdoors as we could! Everything on this list is completely free to get to as well. We wish we could have seen more but we will definitely be going back!

I decided to still write this post because I feel like people spend majority of their time at the art exhibits and museums and sometimes these outdoor monuments get forgotten! But they are so amazing and worth stopping to see on your trip.

See the White House

Okay, I put this one on the list because obviously if you are going to DC you are going to see the White House. But can I tell you something just between you and me? It wasn’t that impressive! If I didn’t know we were walking up to the White House I probably wouldn’t have thought much of it.

I can obviously appreciate the gravity of the house that holds our president but it isn’t quite as grand as you may believe! Maybe that was just me… but you’ll have to let me know what you think!

National Mall

This really should be like 5 things on the list but its so close in proximity that it all rolls into one. It is here where you will see the Lincoln memorial, Washington Monument, I have a Dream steps, and the WWII & Vietnam Veterans Memorial!

Whew! That is a mouthful. Obviously this is the place you know you need to see when in DC but make sure to plan ample time to walk around, read about our nations history, and truly appreciate where you are at!

Capitol Hill

When you are ready to get your steps in for the day, stroll Capitol Hill. The neighborhood around the capitol building is exactly what I wanted to see in DC. It is classy and charming. The homes are antiques and the shops are quaint. I could have explored here all day!

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

This memorial was beautiful and laid tribute to the author or our Declaration of Independence. A true tribute to democracy and it is so well put together.

As part of the National Park Service this monument is well kept and offers great information about our country. It wasn’t nearly as crowded as the Lincoln Memorial which meant better pictures and more space to walk around and take in the history.

Greenbelt Park

Another great place to just stroll and enjoy an amazing view. Technically this park is in Maryland about 20-30 minutes outside of DC but it was well worth the drive. It was rainy the day we went so I didn’t get pictures that captured the vibrant colors of the flowers but wow it was beautiful!

It is a great place for a romantic picnic or just a mid afternoon walk. You can even find some great hiking trails which I wasn’t sure I’d see on the east!