2025-12-10 11:20:48
If you are looking to fill an hour, a lunch or an evening, Washington, DC offers a variety of activities and experiences regardless of when your meeting ends.
MORNING MUSINGS
Enjoy sunrise views at the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial or the World War II Memorial during a walk, jog or bike ride along America’s Front Yard. For a jumpstart on sightseeing, head to the Smithsonian National Zoo or Arlington Cemetery, both opening their gates at 8 a.m. After exploring, fuel up at Tatte, one of DC’s popular coffee shops, or have a sit-down breakfast at Ted’s Bulletin to try their famed Ted’s Tarts.
LEISURELY LUNCH BREAKS
Explore world-class exhibits during lunch or between sessions by taking in DC’s unparalleled collection of free museums. Be sure to visit the National Gallery of Art, the Hirshhorn Museum and the National Museum of African American History and Culture for a plethora of inspirational exhibitions.
Take an extended lunch by touring the nation’s capital through the lens of its iconic neighborhoods. Whether you’re exploring the cultural heartbeat of U Street, known as DC’s “Black Broadway,” uncovering the secrets of espionage and ghostly legends in Georgetown or tasting the city’s history through food around the White House, there’s a guided tour to captivate every interest.
Reset and recharge by grabbing a bite to eat in some of DC’s most luxurious and relaxing hotel lobbies. Order tea or espresso from from Le Café in the Willard Intercontinental and relax in the same lobby where Martin Luther King Jr. crafted his “I Have a Dream” speech. Visit Baker’s Daughter at the Eaton DC and take a deep breath next to its homey fireside library, only blocks from the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Discover a neoclassical church turned hotel for delicious snacks and welcoming vibes at The LINE DC.
EVENING EVENTS
Once you’re done applauding the closing keynote speaker, join locals in cheering for the home team at one of DC’s many sports venues. Enjoy a Washington Nationals baseball game at Nationals Park, check out a Capitals hockey game or Wizards NBA game at Capital One Arena or see the WNBA’s Washington Mystics at CareFirst Arena. Audi Field hosts DC United and Washington Spirit games, as well as the DC Defenders of the XFL.
Experience the grandeur of DC’s live show and music scene with tickets to an evening performance. Touring Broadway shows stage at The National Theatre and the Kennedy Center, while debut performances can be seen at Ford’s Theatre and Warner Theatre. Cutting-edge dramas sizzle at the Woolly Mammoth Theatre, Arena Stage and Shakespeare Theatre Company. For live music, bop to headliners at the Anthem, the Atlantis and the legendary 9:30 Club or check out independent acts at Pearl Street Warehouse and Union Stage in a more intimate setting.
FOR LITERARY DELIGHTS
Mix exploring with learning and attend an after-hours event or lecture. The Folger Shakespeare Library, the world’s largest collection of Shakespeare’s works, stays open late to host Cocktails and Conversation, during which guests can participate in insightful discussions with a drink in hand. For more literary fun, visit the Library of Congress’s Live! at the Library, featuring curated performances, discussions and exhibit every Thursday evening. Become a wordsmith for the night at Planet Word’s Wordplay Wednesday, engaging with language through immersive exhibits and creative challenges.
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