10 Best Outdoor Activities In Washington DC, USA - Updated 2024

outdoor activities in dc
Catherine
Catherine 
Updated
| 5 min read

Nestled along the picturesque Potomac River, Washington D.C. is not only the epicenter of the United States’ political power structure but it’s also one of the most popular tourist cities in the nation - if not the world. Bordering the states of Virginia and Maryland, this capital city of the United States, is filled with iconic structures, diverse neighborhoods, one-of-a-kind museums, and so much more. If you want to experience this city beyond the usual touristy haunts and embark on exciting outdoor explorations to discover another layer to this vibrant town, then you must scroll down to see the best outdoor activities in Washington DC, USA.

While you’re at it, book a stay at the top Airbnbs or Vrbo rentals too!

1. Sightseeing tour on an open-top convertible bus (from USD 99.0)

Is there anything else more touristy than riding an open-top bus with a camera in your hand and riding around the city? This convertible bus tour will bring you four hours of fun touring the best attractions that Washington DC is known for. There’s the White House, of course, then Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and even Maryland’s National Harbor. This fun-filled tour will also take you to Alexandria, a Virginian city known for its preservation of colonial history and architecture.

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Glass-Top or Open-Top Convertible Bus Tour of DC

Duration: 6 hours

58 reviews

2. Brunch in cruisin' style (from USD 97.0)

Who doesn’t love brunch? Breakfast food and light alcoholic drinks are such an excellent pair. When in DC, you can brunch in style when you sign up for this premier yacht cruise that will take you to the city’s stunning shorelines. A live jazz band will serenade your morning, with a personable crew to guide you all throughout the cruise. Feel free to load up on the brunch buffet and then cap off your cruise with some hot coffee or tea.

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Washington DC Premier Brunch Cruise

Duration: 2 hours

177 reviews

3. See DC at dusk (from USD 64.0)

Washington DC is just as gorgeous and vibrant at night as it is in the morning. Hop on board this luxury coach as you stroll along world-class and historic landmarks such as Lincoln Memorial, US Navy Memorial, and even the White House.

This excursion won’t just have you passing by these important sites in DC, you’ll be given plenty of time to walk around and snap a few photos. You’re guided by an expert with a live narrative both on and off the bus.

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Washington DC 'Monuments and Memorials' Guided Night Tour

Duration: 3 hours

4400 reviews

4. Hop onto a Segway and explore the city's iconic sights (from USD 64.0)

See the iconic National Mall, the imposing Lincoln Memorial, the towering Washington Monument, the impressive domed United States Capitol, and more from a unique perspective, with this fun two-wheeled adventure through the streets of the United States’ capital. Along the way, participants hear intriguing history and compelling facts - as well as juicy tidbits - about Washington D.C.’s high-powered playground of political players. A helpful 30-minute instruction session ensures each participant is comfortable and confident to maneuver the vehicle before the tour begins. Tasty food and refreshing beverages are also supplied.

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See the Sites by Segway

Duration: 2.5 hours

160 reviews

Washington Tour Guide

Annie Leguennec

Annie Leguennec

My name is Annie. I am a local Tour guide based in Philadelphia enjoying fully what the city has to offer with its deep history, street arts, murals, architecture, traditional food, black history, Farmer Markets, green space, a melting pot of neighborhoods and its great locals. I am looking for to welcome you and show you this incredible city where you will gain a better understanding of the city's rich heritage and its continuing legacy as the birthplace of the United States of America. Book my tour. Explore and learn about this unique city where you will walk on the footsteps of our America's founding Fathers. My tours are conducted in English, French and Italian.

Tours by Annie

Washington Tour Guide

Stephanie Eley

Stephanie Eley

I'm a graduate of ITMI, International Tour Management Institute and 17 years as a licensed Tour Director and Program Director. My expertise began in NYC and Washington, DC where I'm a licensed guide and has expanded to Europe, South America, Cuba and the Western / Southwestern National Parks of the US. I'd love to introduce you for a day or a week to Denver, Colorado and the 4 corners region of the US: Colorado, Utah, New Mexico and Arizona! Let's GO!! stepheley@gmail.com

Tours by Stephanie

5. Lace up and go running along the famous landmarks in the city (from USD 30.0)

Want to exercise and explore Washington D.C.’s glorious monuments as you go? This invigorating 90-minute jogging tour through some of Washington D.C.’s most popular tourist sites is ideal for those who want to explore the attractions in a health-conscious way. The tour is always small - only up to six people - so safety is a key element. This hearty run is comprised of a roughly 4-mile (6.4-kilometer) jog and covers everything from the Thomas Jefferson Memorial to the White House. The guide is well informed and thrilled to show off Washington D.C. by divulging fun historical facts as well as tourist tips like where to get the best cup of coffee or a delicious meal.

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Running Tour of the Monuments

Duration: 1.5 hours

191 reviews

6. Discover Washington D.C. by bike (from USD 299.0)

This wonderful biking tour of Washington D.C. allows participants to choose either a leisurely two-hour bike ride around tourist sites or test your stamina on a challenging three-to-four-hour bike ride. For those who truly want to test their mettle, you can opt for a six-hour ride that tours neighboring Maryland and Virginia. The professional guide tailors the excursion to your desires. The guide also aids with navigating the terrain, offers interesting and entertaining commentary, and has yummy snacks on hand. You’re certain to enjoy a fulfilling biking experience when partaking in this adventuresome tour.

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Private Endorphin Inducing Bike Road Ride

Duration: 2 hours

1 review

7. Delightful scavenger hunt in the heart of D.C. (from USD 12.0)

This two-hour adventurous thing to do in Washington DC is a great option for those looking to explore beyond the usual. In this activity, participants travel on foot to various local landmarks and hidden gems while responding to curious trivia questions and solving interesting challenges. This scavenger hunt expedition is ideal if you’re searching for an informal event in a safe environment: no more than 10 people in a group. This escapade allows participants to learn new things and create unforgettable experiences along the way.

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Washington DC Two-in-One Tour and Smartphone Scavenger Hunt

Duration: 2 hours

8. High-octane action on the D.C. landscape (from USD 275.0)

high-octane action on the d.c. landscape
Source: www.viator.com

For car aficionados who want to enjoy a slice of heaven, then this amazing adventure is for you. Hop in your choice of high-performance supercar and experience fantasies of living large. You’ll have the opportunity to criss-cross the Washington D.C. roadscape while admiring beautiful and distinctive natural environment and pleasant countryside stops. Be aware this driving escapade allows only two participants in the vehicle. To satisfy your desire to drive luxury cars, the only answer is this incredible adrenaline-fuelled ride that’s sure to leave you breathless.

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30-Minutes Supercar Driving Pilot Experience in Washington DC

Duration: 30 minutes

9. Indulge in a serene healing adventure (from USD 50.0)

If you need some time to recharge from your busy everyday lifestyle, then this Washington DC outdoor activity is for you. This restorative experience begins in DC’s natural gem: beautiful Rock Creek Park. This is an expansive urban oasis filled with woodsy splendor from tall trees to babbling brooks. To kick off the adventure, your bubbly host leads a calming 15-minute guided meditation session. The bulk of the experience is a 45-minute hike through the park that focuses on the healing environment of this park’s natural beauty. Participants are replenished during the hike with a nutrient-dense snack and drink. If requested, participants receive a fascinating reiki healing/oracle card reading at the completion of the hike.

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Healing Nature Experience

Duration: 2 hours

4 reviews

10. Tour the popular sights of the city by jeep (from USD 508.0)

This marvelous adrenaline-pumping jeep tour is comprised of seven entertaining stops on the itinerary that include the White House, the Supreme Court building, the National Mall, and many more. Participants of up to four people board a fabulous customized four-wheel drive vehicle and zip around the nation’s capitol in breezy excellence. You pick what highlights - if any - you want to focus on and the knowledgeable and enthusiastic guide will create a fun and compelling plan to satisfy your Washington D.C. touristy interests.

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Private Washington DC Jeep Tour

Duration: 3 hours

Washington D.C.'s splendid outdoor fun

Branded with a reputation for being an uptight government-centric town, Washington D.C. is actually so much more. Though the powerful politicos and formidable government buildings loom large on this city’s terrain, it’s important to know that Washington D.C. also provides a lot of enticing amusements. The chance to see a different side to this city, with these incredibly fun-filled excursions, is a great way to experience the lighter side of Washington D.C.’s serious character.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Catherine has written professionally for over 10 years, and a sizable amount has been travel writing. Her desire to see the world was sparked at a very young age. Growing up, there were many family...Read more

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