8 Top Washington DC Adventures for the Summer

Summertime in Washington D.C brings warm weather, beautiful cherry blossoms, and fun festivals and events left and right, which is why we think it is the perfect time to bring your group to visit and explore!

There is much more to do in D.C. outside of the museum scene or monument tours, though those are great too, don't get us wrong. From free summer-long attractions to iconic country-wide celebrations, D.C. has a lot to offer during the summer months. Check out our top 8 choices for Washington DC Adventures for the Summer and start planning your next trip today!


  1. Memorial Day Parade

    Memorial Day in Washington DC Pixabay Public Domain

    What better way to commemorate those who have served our country than with the largest Memorial Day parade in the United States?? Enjoy a daytime parade along Constitution Avenue, a tradition since the Civil War, then get revved up with the Rolling Thunder Motorcycle Rally's Ride for Freedom, featuring over 900,000 motorcyclists paying tribute to our service members.

  2. Washington Nationals Baseball Game

    Washington Nationals Baseball Game Pixabay Public Domain

    There is nothing more American than watching the Washington Nationals play a game at National Park in Washington DC during the summertime, unless, of course, you happen to bring some apple pie with you while doing so. Located at the Riverfront, this ballpark will make you feel all the patriotic summer feels you can while enjoying a fun night out!

  3. Watersports at Waterfront

    Kayaking on Potomac - Royalty-Free

    You probably don't even consider watersports when planning your summer DC adventure, but believe it or not, there are actually several options for fun in the sun on the water. Enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and more along the Anacostia and Potomac during your trip for some true summer fun.

  4. National Zoo

    Panda at the National Zoo Pixabay Public Domain

    What can make visiting a zoo during the summer even more fun? Visiting a free zoo during the summer! Washington D.C's National Zoo is a free attraction that allows guests to get acquainted with some of our nation's most familiar residents, as well as some more unfamiliar, such as the panda!

  5. 4th of July

    4th of July in Washington DC Pixabay Public Domain

    Okay okay, so we have said a couple of times on this list already that there couldn't be anything more American to do, but seriously, this one takes the cake; 4th of July fireworks in our nation's capitol! On Independence Day you can enjoy a daytime parade along Constitution Avenue, then take in the displays after dark at any of the many different viewing areas, our personal favorite being the National Mall (get there early to grab a spot!).

  6. Festivals and Events

    Washington DC Summer Festivals Pixabay Public Domain

    This one may sound a bit vague, but there are ALWAYS fun festivals and events happening in Washington D.C., especially during the summer. Enjoy outdoor movies, Jazzfest, the Smithsonian Folklife Festival, and so much more, it all just depends on the time of your visit!

  7. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

    Aquatic Gardens DC Pixabay Public Domain

    Oftentimes overlooked for the museums, monuments, and memorials available throughout the city, the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is one of our favorite summertime spots in D.C. See several water plants and water wildlife within the gardens, the scene along the Anacostia River like something straight out of a Monet painting.

  8. Summer Restaurant Week

    DC Restaurant Week Pixabay Public Domain

    Each year Washington D.C. participates in Summer Restaurant Week, a glorious food-filled week in August (12th through 18th) in which you can explore the iconic local dining scene for a significantly lower cost than normal. Enjoy 3-course lunches for $22 and dinners for $35 at some of the area's hottest eateries, both old and new!