There are countless things to do in the nation's capital during the summer. Whether you're into museums, food, history, sports, or art, DC has you covered. If you’re looking for things to do in Washington DC in August 2018, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including...
- Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Tour
- The Capital Wheel
- Washington Monuments River Cruise
- Hamilton Exhibit at George Washington's Mount Vernon
- and more...
Save on Attraction Admission
Regular admission to a number of these popular Washington DC attractions are available on the Washington DC Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 47% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note, the seasonal events taking place at these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included on the Washington DC Explorer Pass. If you want a bigger list of seasonal events, then check out our suggested things to do in Washington DC in the summer.
Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Tour
There is no shortage of landmarks and monuments to see in our nation's capital! Conveniently, the bus tour allows you to go from site to site without any hassle. This is the best way to see the monuments efficiently while also learning from the tour guide. Some highlights of the DC bus tour include...
- US Capitol & Botanical Garden
- Air & Space Museum
- Washington Monument West
- Jefferson Memorial
- Newseum
- White House
- and more!
Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus DC Bus Tour tickets are available on the Washington DC Explorer Pass.
The Capital Wheel
Get a remarkable view of the Potomac River and surrounding area on this 180-foot-tall observation wheel. The 15-minute ride even includes the option of enjoying delicious concessions from Wolfgang Puck! Some of the sites visible from the Capital Wheel include the Washington Monument, the Capitol Building, downtown Alexandria, the Potomac River, and various other locations. Getting In: The Capital Wheel tickets are available on the Washington DC Explorer Pass.
Rent a Bike and Go for a Spin
On this three-hour bike rental, you can explore around the monuments or city at a faster pace than walking but a slower pace than a bus tour. DC is known as one of the most scenic and relaxing places to ride a bike around. It's also a very bike-friendly city, with many trails and parks to pedal through. Getting In: Bike and Roll Washington DC Bike Rentals are available on the Washington DC Explorer Pass.
Washington Nationals Ballpark Tour & Game
Come see one of the loveliest baseball stadiums in the MLB -- Washington Nationals Ballpark! The newer design includes better views, top bars and food stands, and plenty of fun to be had around the game, too. Take a tour of the ballpark, or take in a game. This time of year the season is winding down, so you'll get to see the Nats fighting for their postseason standings. Getting In: Washington Nationals Ballpark Tour tickets are available on the Washington DC Explorer Pass. Game tickets are separately priced and are not included with the pass.
Washington Monuments Cruise
On this 90-minute cruise you will enjoy a unique view of many Washington, DC monuments. Some of the sights you'll enjoy include the Kennedy Center, the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and many more. Plus, it's pretty hot in DC in August, so a cruise is a smart idea! Getting In: Washington DC River Cruise tickets are available on the Washington DC Explorer Pass.
Hillwood Estate, Museum, and Gardens
Experience the best of DC's bygone eras with a visit to the estate of Marjorie Merriweather Post, one of DC's most acclaimed socialites and philanthropists in the twentieth century. She had a passion for all things beautiful and unique, and you'll see that passion on display with a stroll through this fascinating attraction. From the indoor spaces of the estate and museum to the gorgeous outdoor gardens, there's a lot of beauty to appreciate here! Getting In: Hillwood Estate, Museum, and Gardens tickets are available on the Washington DC Explorer Pass.
Special Hamilton Exhibit at George Washington's Mount Vernon
Mount Vernon Mansion. Image credit: George Washington's Mount Vernon website.Remember to Save on Attraction Admission
There you go - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in Washington DC in August. Remember, many of these great attraction options are included on the Washington DC Explorer Pass, where you can save up to 47% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Please note, the seasonal events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Washington DC Explorer Pass. Consider adding a few of these fun options to your August vacation itinerary.