Washington, DC is famous among tourists across the globe for its grand monuments and political history, but there’s a whole other side to the city that most of the tourists miss. Beyond the White House and the National Mall, DC has a range of offbeat attractions, unique museums, and lively local hangout places that offer you the authentic charm of the city. If you want to explore Washington, DC like a local, here’s a list of the best experiences that go beyond the usual sightseeing routes.
1. Unwind at DC’s Rooftop Bars with a View
Washington, DC is one of the top destinations for those who want to sip a cocktail with a view. It has a variety of rooftop bars that you can visit for a memorable experience. These elevated spots give you a chance to enjoy the skyline, watch the sunset, and mingle with locals—all in one go.
Head to places like El Techo in Shaw for a Latin ambience and open-air charm, or try Top of the Gate at The Watergate Hotel, which offers fantastic views of the Potomac River, the National Mall, Georgetown and Rosslyn, Virginia. Whether you seek a lively evening or a relaxed drink with city views, DC’s rooftop bars are a refreshing break from the usual tourist experiences.
Local Tip: Plan your rooftop stop during happy hour,around 4-6pm usually on weekdays, and you’ll blend right in with DC locals while enjoying special prices for drinks and snacks!
2. Explore Eastern Market on Capitol Hill
If you want to experience everyday life in Washington, DC, head to Eastern Market, which is located in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood. This market has been around since the 1870s and is known as one of the best places in the city to buy fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
Weekends are especially busy with farmers, food stalls, and artisans selling everything from paintings to handmade jewellery. You can grab a breakfast sandwich, enjoy live street performances, and wander through the stalls – it’s a great way to spend a relaxed morning in DC.
Local Tip: try The blueberry buckwheat pancakes at The Market Lunch inside Eastern Market, they’re a local favorite!
3. Take a Graffiti Tour in NoMa
For something truly offbeat, explore the street art of NoMa (North of Massachusetts Avenue). The neighbourhood has been transformed over the past decade into a colourful area filled with murals. Thanks to festivals like POW! WOW! DC, several large murals have been painted by international artists, and they paint the neighbourhood in a creative vibe.
You can either take a guided tour in the region or explore on your own. If you love photography or simply enjoy discovering new spots, NoMa’s street art promises you a completely different and unique side of Washington, DC.
Local Tip: NoMa is home to Union Market, a food hall full of local vendors that’s an ideal spot for lunch or dinner during your time exploring the murals.
4. Dive Into the Secrets at the International Spy Museum
One of the most unique museums in Washington, DC, the International Spy Museum gives you a fun yet educational look at the world of espionage. Here, you’ll find real spy gadgets, iconic cars from James Bond movies, stories of undercover missions, and exhibits on famous spies from around the world.
The museum also lets you take part in interactive spy challenges where you test your observation skills and memory. Whether you’ve grown up watching spy movies or are simply curious about the hidden world of intelligence, this museum is a must-visit.
Local Tip: The International Spy Museum is a 10-minute walk from one of DC’s waterfronts, The Wharf. Relax by the riverfront with a delicious meal once you’ve wrapped your undercover mission.
5. Visit the National Postal Museum
The National Postal Museum is a hidden gem near Union Station. It’s not just about stamps. The exhibits here tell the story of communication and mail delivery over the centuries – from stagecoaches to airmail and modern logistics.
There’s even a huge collection of rare stamps and interactive exhibits where you can design your own postage stamp or see how letters used to be sorted by hand. It’s an interesting museum that many locals recommend when asked about lesser-known spots in DC.
Local Tip: join the introductory tour of the museum at 11:30am to see the highlights, keep an eye out for rare items like the package used to mail the Hope Diamond!
6. Relax at Meridian Hill Park
The Meridian Hill Park is a great place to enjoy weekend picnics, yoga sessions, or just lounging on the grass. Located in the Columbia Heights neighbourhood, this park has a laid-back atmosphere. It’s also home to one of the longest cascading fountains in North America, and the open spaces make it a favourite hangout spot for students, families, and creative groups.
On Sundays, you might even catch the famous drum circle where musicians gather to play together. It’s one of the simple but memorable experiences that let you enjoy the local life in DC.
Local Tip: The park has sculptures scattered throughout including a newly restored statue of Joan of Arc, the only equestrian statue of a woman in Washington, DC.
7. Discover the Unique O Street Museum
For those who enjoy a bit of mystery, the O Street Museum, also called the ‘Secret Door Museum’, is a fun stop. It is located inside a historic townhouse, but it’s much more than just a museum. It’s filled with hidden doors, secret passages, and themed rooms packed with art, books, and collectables.
You can explore the place and find hidden doors as you wander. You’ll never know exactly what’s around the next corner. It’s strange, surprising, and definitely beyond an average museum experience.
Local Tip: keep an eye out for names of famous figures who have ties to the museum! Rosa Parks lived in the mansion for 10 years.
8. Try DC’s Famous Half-Smoke at Ben’s Chilli Bowl
No visit to DC is complete without tasting its signature dish—the half-smoke. And there’s no better place to try it than at Ben’s Chili Bowl on U Street. The half-smoke is a sausage that’s spicier than a regular hot dog, served with chilli, onions, and mustard.
Ben’s Chilli Bowl has been a local favourite since 1958 and is a symbol of the city’s cultural and civil rights history. It’s a place that’s visited by celebrities, presidents, and locals alike. So go ahead! grab a seat at the counter and enjoy one of DC’s tastiest traditions. Make sure you snap a photo at the mural adorning the outside of the U Street restaurant, you may see some familiar faces featured.
Local Tip: Ben’s has a second location on H Street NE offering the same delicious menu as their U Street NW homebase.
9. Paddle Along the Potomac River
For a bit of outdoor adventure, rent a kayak or paddleboard and head onto the Potomac River. It’s a great way to see DC from a fresh perspective. While paddling along the river, you’ll get views of the Georgetown waterfront, Theodore Roosevelt Island, and even the Kennedy Center.
There are several rental points along the river, especially at Key Bridge Boathouse, many offering guided kayak or paddleboard tours. It’s a fun way to break up museum visits with some time on the water, and it’s a popular activity to try in the hotter months.
Local Tip: After you explore DC by water plan to stick around Georgetown for a weekend brunch or a picnic in the green space of Georgetown Waterfront Park.
10. Enjoy Local Music at The 9:30 Club
Want to catch the local music scene? The 9:30 Club is one of DC’s most famous live music venues, known for hosting big-name artists as well as up-and-coming bands. The venue is small enough to feel intimate, and the sound quality is top-notch.
Whether you’re into rock, indie, or electronic, it always seems to have a lineup that you’ll enjoy. Seeing a live show here is one of those local experiences that visitors rarely forget.
Local Tip: Beyond live shows, 9:30 club offers various themed music nights where patrons can come enjoy a dance party curated to their specific tastes. From Taylor Swift Nights to 2000s hits to Broadway Raves.
11. Ride a Bike around the National Mall Like a Local Commuter
While most of the tourists take a walking tour of the National Mall, locals prefer biking. Rent a Capital Bikeshare bike and cruise past the monuments like the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial on two wheels. It’s faster, more fun, and gives you a sense of how many DC residents get around town every day. Plus, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to click beautiful pictures without the crowds.
Local Tip: If you’re looking to get a workout during the vacation, plan an early morning run on the National Mall and you’ll fit right in with locals who frequent this area for their exercise routines.
Final Thoughts
Washington, DC has so much more to offer beyond its well-known landmarks. From quirky museums like the International Spy Museum and the O Street Museum to lively rooftop bars and scenic outdoor spots, the city is filled with hidden gems. For travelers who love exploring like a local, Washington DC offers experiences that are fun, creative, and full of surprises.