Spending Halloween 2019 in Washington DC? Whether you’re looking for an October 31 event to rock your socks or some seasonal family fun, D.C. has you covered. If you’re looking for things to do for Halloween in Washington DC, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including...
- Haunted Washington Walks
- Boo at the Zoo
- Night of the Living Zoo
- Nightmare on M Street
- Air and Scare
- and more!
Haunted Washington Walks Tours
One of the best ways to combine explorations of D.C. with some Halloween fun is with a haunted walking tour! Washington Walks offers several special seasonal tours that bring you to various buildings and neighborhoods around the city for a fun and informative total experience. Check out some of our favorites:
- Capitol Hauntings: Ghosts of the U.S. Capitol Tour - focusing on one of the city's oldest and most historic neighborhoods
- The Most Haunted Houses Tour - highlighting some of the most famous figures and buildings in DC.
Getting In: Washington Walks DC Tours are available with the Go Washington DC Pass®.
DC Bike Rides
The weather is finally cooperating in DC, and we're enjoying some delightful fall breezes and changing leaves. Take advantage of this first taste of fall to enjoy some fun outdoor activities like a bike ride. DC is a very bike-friendly city, with paths along the waterfront, around the mall, and throughout the city. You'll also find dedicated bike lanes in many places. Your rental comes with a handy map, too, so you can easily plan your route. Getting In: DC Bike Rentals by Bike and Roll DC are available with the Go Washington DC Pass®.
Boo at the Zoo
Smithsonian National Zoo Enjoy some family-friendly fun at this three-day event at the National Zoo. Your time will be filled with festive activities like a pumpkin-decorating contest and trick-or-treat stations, plus the chance to enjoy the company of the animals under new circumstances. Don’t forget to come in costume! Perhaps you’ll even see some of the zoo’s inhabitants partaking in the holiday fun. Who knows -- maybe if you dress like a panda, Tian Tian will notice! Getting In: Admission to Boo at the Zoo is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Washington DC Pass®. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the event website.
Night of the Living Zoo
Smithsonian National Zoo The adults-only version of their kid-centric Boo at the Zoo, the Night of the Living Zoo is filled with “wicked fun.” From a costume contest to live music, it’s a relaxing and festive event. You’ll also enjoy snacks from food trucks, some delicious craft beer, and additional fascinating performances. Getting In: Admission to the Night of the Living Zoo is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Washington DC Pass®. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the event website.
17th Street High Heel Race
Dupont Circle Truly the time to shine for those who love to dress up in high heels (whatever the occasion), this crazy costume event sees tons of “runners” traipsing down 17th Street in Dupont Circle. It’s a lively event with a long history, especially tied to Dupont’s queer culture, and it’s a lot of fun. You can even participate if you register in advance! Getting In: Admission to the 17th Street High Heel Race is free.
Nightmare on M Street
Dupont Circle This massive block party is perfect for adults. It’s a hugely popular event among locals that fills select areas of DC with ghouls and goblins. Stop by tons of participating bars and restaurants, each offering some specials like reduced drink prices and themed snacks. Getting In: Admission to Nightmare on M Street is separately ticketed and is not included with the Go Washington DC Pass®. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the event website.
Air & Scare
Udvar-Hazy Center, National Air & Space Museum Bring the whole family out to Chantilly, VA for some good old-fashioned Halloween fun. Trick or treat at multiple stations, roam through seasonal and spooky décor (low level spooky, we promise), and play around with themed crafts. You’ll even get to partake in a few creepy science experiments! Getting In: Admission to Air & Scare is free.
Save on Admission
And while you're deciding which of these festive events to throw into your Halloween plans, don't forget about the other great seasonal activities available, like fall tours of George Washington's Mount Vernon or current new exhibits at the National Geographic Museum. Whatever you decide to do, don't forget a Go Washington DC Pass® to help you save on admission to some of our favorite festive events.