Updated July 28, 2020
Looking for something to do this weekend? Luckily, there’s no shortage of fun around Washington D.C.! Here’s my round-up of 15 ways to get out of the house and enjoy all the DMV has to offer in a safe and fun way during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Be sure to contact these attractions or view their website listings for updated safety procedures and hours of operation.
Looking for things to do specifically in the fall? Here are 40 things to do this Fall in DC (Updated for COVID).
Table of Contents
History and the Arts:
Artechouse
Artechouse (Art + Tech + House) combines technology, science, and creativity to engage all your senses in an interactive exhibit. Right now, Crystalline is a perfect getaway and opportunity to connect to art in a safe environment. Modeled after Pantone’s color of the year, 2020 Classic Blue, this exhibit immerses you in the color’s dependable qualities in connection with earth. Walk through hallways full of light-portraits that move in accordance with your own body movement, browse an ice-themed oasis, and bask in the brilliance of the most tranquil color ever (and my favorite, I must say).
Udvar-Hazy Center
Update: Temporarily Closed
How about something out of this world? Head to the National Air and Space Museum’s Udvar Hazy Center to see thousands of space and aviation artifacts, including the original Discovery Space Shuttle. Because of COVID measures, you’ll need to get timed passes ahead of time.
George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Head back in time to the home of George and Martha Washington, from their mansion to their gristmill and distillery. If you’re a fan of Hamilton The Musical, you’ll love their new Hamilton tour! Although there is not record of Alexander Hamilton visiting Mount Vernon, evidence of the musical’s inspiration and ideas run throughout the foundation of this historic estate.
International Spy Museum
Update: Temporarily Closed
Calling all of my Pink Panther lovers, or anyone whose heart races from the thrilling story of international espionage. Learn about code cracking, spying that’s shaped history, imaginative methods to steal secrets, and more at the new and revamped International Spy Museum.
Outdoor Activities:
Paddleboarding and Kayaking
If water, sun, and exercise sound like a perfect day, try your hand at kayaking or paddleboarding at Thompson Boathouse or The District Wharf Boathouse! Make sure to book your visit online ahead of time, as spots fill up quickly! My favorite boathouse is Thompson because the views of Key Bridge, the Kennedy Center, and Georgetown’s Waterfront are magical as you paddle up and down the Potomac River.
Sunset Monument Boat Tour
Capitol River Cruises offers a 45-minute boat tour departing from Georgetown Waterfront with spectacular views! There’s a daytime tour too, but the sunset tour offers amazing views of fiery-orange skies and a sinking sun. Feel the wind in your face as you cruise through the Potomac River on an open-air boat patio.
National Zoo
Update: Temporarily Closed
The National Zoo just welcomed two new American Bison to its park, and they are ready to welcome you to see them! Roam among monkeys, lions, and bears (oh my!) at this beloved, family-friendly landmark.
Winery Hopping
You had me at merlot. Fairfax County and Loudoun County have AMAZING vineyards with award-winning blends of wine. Check them out for yourself on a beautiful day in the DMV to wine down after a long week.
Pick Your Own
If you’re looking for a calm stroll and to pick your own fruit, check out this list of local pick-your-own fields. Apples, peaches, strawberries, and blueberries are among the list of different delicacies you can collect at your leisure.
Picnic Spots:
Gravelly Point
By far one of my faves on the list, Gravelly Point is located right outside of DC – next to Ronald Reagan National Airport in Arlington, VA. If you’re looking to watch the planes fly and imagine you’re on them, this is the place to go!
Constitution Gardens
If the Garden of Eden was in DC, this would be it. Weeping willows, beautiful ponds, National Monument views, and blankets of lush green grass encompass acres of tranquility.
Yards Park
Nestled behind endless construction, is the beautiful Yards Park in Southeast D.C. along the Anacostia River. Stroll through the bridge, mosey through it’s green spaces, and enjoy takeout from one of their waterfront restaurants.
Date Activities:
Attend a Drive-In Movie
Hop in the car and grab the popcorn! Drive-in movies are popping up all over the DMV as the perfect socially-distanced activity. Check this list from WJLA to find drive-ins located within 100 miles of Washington D.C.
Paddywax Candle Bar
For an unconventionally relaxing date night, pour your own custom candle at Paddywax Candle Studio in Reston, VA or Georgetown in Washington D.C.
Axe Throwing at Bad Axe
Time to throw some axes! Bad Axe Throwing in Mosaic District (NoVA) and Washington D.C. are open and ready to teach you to make a bullseye! This is truly one of the most unique experiences in the District.
