Are you planning a fun-filled 4th of July weekend in Washington, DC? Wondering what to do? Look no further! The 4th of July is my absolutely favorite holiday. I love the patriotism, the history, and the fireworks- all of it! There is no better place to celebrate our country’s Independence than in our Nation’s Capital. Here are the top 10 things to do while spending the 4th of July in Washington, DC.
4th of July in Washington, DC: Top 10 Things to do
1. Monuments by Moonlight
Visit the famous Washington, DC monuments at night through Monuments by Moonlight. Old Town Trolley Tours offers this history-packed tour in the evening. This is my Dad’s favorite tour in Washington, DC. As a military veteran, he served in Korea and his favorite monument in DC is the Korean War memorial. It is truly spectacular to see this memorial at night.
2. National Air and Space Museum
Visit the National Air and Space Museum over the 4th of July weekend and help the museum celebrate 40 years! On July 1st the National Air and Space Museum will host a 40th birthday celebration with a special ceremony, and the museum will remain open all night while offering special activities. If you are in DC on July 1st, this is a celebration you don’t want to miss!
3. Capitol Visitor Center
Visit the U.S. Capitol building. The Capitol Visitor Center is absolutely stunning! Built underground, this visitor center offers tours of the Capitol as well as a museum that you can walk through at your own pace. Get ready to learn about the history of the U.S. Capitol Building and don’t forget to stop by the gift shop for one-of-a-kind souvenirs. This is a great in-door activity to do over the 4th of July in Washington, DC.
4. National Museum of American History 
The National Museum of American History is a must see while you are in Washington, DC over the 4th of July holiday. This museum houses the American Flag which inspired Francis Scott Key to write the Star Spangled Banner. Along with tons of American History artifacts, the National Museum of American History is also home to the First Ladies’ inaugural gowns. This is a unique exhibit for anyone who is interested in fashion (and history)!
5. Mount Vernon
Visit George Washington’s home at Mount Vernon. Mount Vernon is located along the Potomac River in Virginia. As soon as you step on the property you are transported back to the 18th century. Have lunch, take a tour of the property, and visit the museum and gift shop- lots to do here! Through the 4th of July weekend, Mount Vernon will host a myriad of events, including fireworks on July 2nd.
6. National Archives
Actually see the Declaration of Independence which was signed on July 4th 1776! The National Archives has tons of historical documents which you can see. Bonus- the building is quite cold due to the preservation of the documents, so this is a great pit-stop to get out of the sun on a hot July day!
7. Fireworks on the National Mall
You can’t miss the fireworks on the 4th of July in Washington, DC! The National Park Service hosts the 4th of July fireworks celebration right on the National Mall (the area that spans from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial). The fireworks go off along the reflecting pool in front of the Lincoln Memorial (remember that reflecting pool from Forrest Gump? That’s the one!) You can sit anywhere along the National Mall and get a great view of the fireworks. If you are staying at a hotel in the DC area, ask if they have fireworks viewing from the rooftop!
8. National Independence Day Parade
Nothing says Happy 4th like a patriotic parade! The 4th of July Parade begins at 11:45 AM and goes down Constitution Ave beginning at 7th street and ending at 17th street. If you are spending the 4th of July in Washington, DC you can’t miss this parade!
9. Arlington National Cemetery
Pay your respects to those who have served our great Country at Arlington National Cemetery. Witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Solider. Don’t forget to bring a bottle of water and wear comfortable shoes. The Cemetery is huge and you will do quite a bit of walking.
10. A Capitol Fourth
PBS hosts this concert and show on the Capitol grounds- you’ve probably seen it on your local PBS station! This concert is FREE and open to the public. Gates open at 3:00 PM and the concert begins at 8:00 PM with the fireworks on the National Mall closing the event! This is truly a wonderful event that you don’t want to miss if you are spending the 4th of July in Washington, DC.
A couple of things to keep in mind when you are visiting Washington, DC: Parking is expensive and sometimes very difficult especially over holiday weekends. There are lots of other options such as public transportation, taxis or other ride sharing companies. My favorite way to get around DC is to walk. I highly recommend getting a laminated map of the District so you know where you are and where you are going!
Being in our Nation’s Capital over the 4th of July is a spectacular experience. Experiencing the history of our Country in Washington, DC will be etched in your memory forever. Hope you get chance to visit Washington, DC this 4th of July!
