Que faire à Washington DC : culture, pouvoir et style dans la capitale branchée
Washington DC est peut-être synonyme de politique et de pouvoir, mais derrière sa façade néoclassique majestueuse se cache une capitale culturelle riche en nuances, en art et en plaisirs discrets et luxueux. Pour les voyageurs férus de culture, dresser une liste des choses à faire à Washington DC ne consiste pas tant à énumérer des monuments qu'à découvrir les histoires des droits civiques et des révolutions modernistes, du jazz et de la justice, du design de classe mondiale et de la gastronomie internationale qui se cachent dans ses galeries, ses théâtres, ses hôtels historiques et ses espaces verts.
Que vous prévoyiez une escapade culturelle rapide ou une immersion plus longue dans la ville, poursuivez votre lecture pour découvrir un guide sélectionné des activités à faire à Washington DC, spécialement conçu pour les explorateurs avertis.
Offre partenaire
Les meilleures expériences à Washington D.C.
Réservez l'une des expériences que d'autres clients ont appréciées et recommandées :
-
Washington DC: Madams and Red‐Light District History Tour
Discover a side of Washington DC’s past that most history books leave out—and hear the city’s most salacious and sordid stories—on this immersive walking tour. Pick between afternoon and evening start times, and set out on foot. As you stroll along major arteries like Pennsylvania Avenue, learn about the area’s past as a red‐light district, hear stories about the madams who shaped the city, and glimpse a number of highlight landmarks.
-
The Magic Duel Interactive Live Comedy Show in Washington DC
Freshen up date night with a comedy magic show. Watch as two magicians battle for the title of DC’s Best Magician. With audience participation from start to finish, the show is a high‐energy, interactive, alternative to dinner and a movie. At the end of the performance cast your vote to decide who was the funniest magician. Visit the Mayflower Hotel’s Edgar bar before the show and bring cocktails in with you.
-
Washington DC Medium‐Group Ghost Tour
Downtown Washington DC is home to several areas of paranormal activity and spooky occurrences. Join this group ghost tour through the nation’s capital to hear anecdotes of fallen soldiers, political leaders, and former residents. Learn about the ghosts and ghouls that haunt the White House, Eisenhower Building, Washington Monument, and many more landmarks.
-
The National Gallery of Art private walking tour in Washington DC
Join this experience of Washington DC's National Gallery of Art. You'll get a guided tour of its hugely impressive complex, and more.Founded in 1937 by Andrew W Mellon, a wealthy philanthropist and patron of the arts. It consists of two buildings, the West and East Buildings. The neoclassical West Building was designed by John Russell Pope and is home to earlier collections including one of the most prestigious collections of Renaissance works anywhere in the world. Enjoy hearing about the life and legend of Da Vinci, Raphael, Titian and many others as you gaze at their beautiful masterpieces. The East Building houses the vast collection of twentieth‐century art, with pieces by Picasso, Rothko, Pollock and many legendary contributors to modern art. It also hosts contemporary exhibitions and immersive, interactive art experiences, print and photographic collections. It was opened in 1978 and is a much more modern edifice designed by I.M Pei the Chinese‐born American architect who also designed the Louvre in Paris. The tranquil sculpture garden was opened in 1999 and is a lovely way to end your guided tour.
-
Washington D.C. National Archives Private Guided Tour
Explore the works preserved in the National Archives on a private tour. Learn the history and significance of original documents like the Declaration of Independence, the US Constitution, the Bill of Rights and The Federalist papers, and see hand written letters from George Washington and John F Kennedy. This private tour can be customized to suit your interests and goes beyond the normal tourist sights to dig deeper into US History.
-
Washington DC Private Half‐Day Sightseeing Tour
Get a good overview of the nation’s capital without having to navigate the metro system or drive your own car on this half‐day sightseeing tour. With a private guide, explore the top monuments, memorials, and museums of Washington DC including the White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and National Mall. Your guide provides information on each sight’s as well as the history of the city.
-
Washington DC in a Day: Bus Tour and Potomac River Cruise
Meet your guide and the rest of the tour group at the National Archives Building to begin this comprehensive tour around Washington DC. Travel aboard an air‐conditioned deluxe coach with an expert local guide who knows the city inside and out. Visit the most popular monuments, memorials, and museums in DC. Drive by more than 100 of Washington, DC’s top sights, with stops at 10 of them, including the United States Capitol, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, and more. Along the way, hear the historic stories and facts that make the city of Washington, DC one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United States. There is a lunch break at approximately the halfway point of the day. This tour also features a scenic boat cruise along the Potomac River (seasonally, approximately April — mid October), and the chance to upgrade to include admission to the National Air and Space Museum or the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
-
DC City Tour + Washington Monument, Air & Space, African American
Explore the famous landmarks and monuments of Washington, DC on this guided, 3‐hour, walking and riding sightseeing tour. Hop aboard our temperature controlled bus and enjoy an educational and entertaining narrated history of the nation’s capital. Stop at the White House and the United States Capitol, plus the Lincoln Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and much more.
-
Washington DC Father's Day Afternoon Buffet Brunch Cruise
Embark on a Premier Washington D.C Father’s Day Brunch Cruise for an elegant afternoon with family on the Potomac River. Create lifelong memories together as you indulge in delicious cocktails, plated, chef‐prepared menus, and top‐notch service. Our DJ sets the mood while you soak in Washington D.C skyline from an intimate, climate‐controlled interior and open‐air rooftop decks. You’ll delight in exclusive views of Washington D.C’s awe‐inspiring sights, like Old Town Alexandria and the National Harbor. This is a Father’s Day experience that will be long treasured. Includes 2‐hour brunch cruise on the Potomac River Delicious buffet brunch with freshly prepared entrees, salads, and desserts Unlimited mimosas (must be 21 or older with valid ID) Spectacular views of the city's architecture and local landmarks Live DJ entertainment Guaranteed table for your party size Unlimited coffee, hot tea, and iced tea
-
Washington DC Embassy Row: At your leisure & pace. Downloadable audiovisual tour
This is a sample tour filled with lots of great places and information. You have a 100 character minimum and there is a maximum limit as well.
-
Washington DC: Boat Rental
Join a boating adventure with options for 1, 2, or 3 hours on the waterways, which is ideal for groups of up to 8 people. Reach the meeting point, where the friendly crew provides a quick tutorial on operating the boat. Once you're briefed, it's time to set sail. Enjoy cruising on calm waters and see the famous Washington landmarks and historical sites. Use the provided map to navigate effortlessly to your chosen destination.
-
Washington DC: Potomac River Buffet Lunch Cruise with Music
Enjoy a leisurely lunchtime sightseeing cruise along the Potomac River and Washington DC’s beautiful waterfront. This excursion covers the Potomac River with views of DC’s great landmarks and the city's historic waterfront. You'll travel aboard a modern dining ship, equipped with plenty of comfortable seating with large picture windows to see the sites, while the open‐air deck provides an additional view of the landscape. There are also spacious dance floors and full‐service bars on board. Before or after eating, grab a drink from one of the onboard bars (own expense) and dance the afternoon away as a professional DJ spins the latest Top 40 hits. Throughout the cruise, listen as the captain provides anecdotes and stories about the history and happenings of the nation’s capital while passing the Washington Monument, Reagan National Airport, the United States Naval Research Laboratory, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, the Woodrow Wilson Memorial Bridge and much more.
-
Washington, D.C. Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour
This three‐hour guided tour will take you to all the beloved monuments and memorials along the National Mall and Potomac Tidal Basin. Pass the Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, World War II Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, the new Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and so much more! Tour guides will share interesting commentary, history and fun facts as you explore the nation's capital. You'll also be given free time to walk around and snap photos of D.C.'s most iconic landmarks.
-
Washington DC: Evening Ghost Stories Walking Tour
Enjoy an offbeat experience—and discover a new side of the nation's capital—on an evening ghost tour of Washington DC. Follow your animated guide to the Dolley Madison House, Lafayette Square, and a range of other historical locations. At each stop, learn the spooky stories behind the city’s alleged hauntings and ghost sightings. The tour is also a great opportunity to see the nation’s capital illuminated at night.
-
Washington DC Full‐Day City Highlights Tour From New York City
Perfect for travelers with limited time, this comprehensive day trip covers Washington DC’s top attractions—and makes getting there from New York City simple. After enjoying comfortable transit via air‐conditioned vehicle, make the most of your time in the nation’s capital. Discover the major monuments of the National Mall, including the Washington Monument; visit Arlington National Cemetery; spot highlights from the White House to the U.S. Capitol; and learn insider stories from your guide.
-
Washington DC: Nighttime Open‐Top Double‐Decker Bus Tour
Exchange your voucher and find your seat on the top or bottom deck; seats are first come, first served. As you take off through the Washington DC landscape, lit up for the night, listen recorded audio commentary, depending on whether you travel during the week or on the weekends. You'll pass landmarks and highlights such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Memorial, the White House, and many more. Admire the sights and capture nighttime photos, all while enjoying the comparative lack of crowds and traffic. Finally, after spending several hours seeing the sights, return to your original departure point.
-
Washington DC: Historic Georgetown Half‐Day Food Tour
Explore the food scene in Georgetown and enjoy samples from a variety of eateries on this small‐group walking food tour. Your tastings and one drink pairing is included for a hassle‐free experience. Meet your guide in a central Georgetown location in the early afternoon. Over the course of 2.5 to 3.5 hours, you’ll walk around 1.5 miles (2.4 kilometers), and pass by the C&O Canal as well as Julia Child’s former house. You’ll also visit four eateries, which could include a local deli, and Indian‐owned institution, an Italian café and grocery store, and a military‐focused bakery, enjoying samples of food at each location. Along the way, hear stories about Georgetown’s history, culture, and architecture, and receive tips and recommendations to continue exploring on your own afterwards.
-
Secrets on Embassy Row: A Self‐Guided Audio Tour in Washington DC
Are you looking for a way to see Embassy Row without joining a tour group? Explore at your own pace with this affordable walking tour. Discover the lifestyles of the rich and famous as you make your way down Massachusetts Avenue and back, taking in the mansions and embassies that line both sides of the street Hear from producer, Rick Snider, native Washingtonian and third‐generation tour guide Do it all in 90 minutes or linger at stops along the way with complete control over when you start and finish Get unlimited use before your booking date and after it Use the virtual tour option at home Once you’ve booked, you’ll receive a ticket with instructions and a unique code listed under “Before You Go”. Then simply install the VoiceMap app and enter your code. The app displays directions to the starting point, and when you’re in the right place, just pop in your headphones and tap start. VoiceMap has automatic GPS playback, with turn‐by‐turn directions. It also works offline.
-
All American Washington DC — Niagara Falls Round Trip Journey
Wonderful excursion to Niagara Falls from Washington DC. A historic visit to the nation’s capital followed by a road trip filled with historic sites and astonishing great lake’s view, an unforgettable breathtaking journey. This carefully chosen, 3 day Washington DC, Niagara Falls escorted tour, has being thoughtfully organized; to become that dreamed escape we all deserve once in a lifetime! Experience the thunder roar and stunning views of the Bridal Veil, and Horseshoe Falls from the deck of the Maid of the Mist. Also visit the Whirlpool viewpoint at Niagara Parks. Enjoy the spectacular fireworks over the falls, a must to experience! Evening casino gambling, perhaps crossing into Canada to dine, or family time at Clifton Hill amusement attractions…! In Niagara Falls there is fun for everyone. Guaranteed!
-
Hop‐on Hop‐off Bus Washington, D.C.
Hop on and off at the best of Washington D.C.'s attractions on a big red bus. Create your own itinerary, and see the city's top highlights and monuments. Different options are available and there's WiFi on all buses! Digital Walking Tours are self‐guided tours with multilingual audio guides, allowing travelers to explore unique areas at their own pace while discovering hidden city gems. Discover Ticket = Get a one‐day Hop‐on Hop‐off Big Bus pass. See the White House, Capitol Hill, Jefferson Memorial, MLK Jr. Memorial, and lots more. Essential Ticket = Use the Hop‐on Hop‐off buses for not one, but **2 days**, and see Washington D.C.'s top landmarks at your leisure. Explore Ticket = Take advantage of the Hop‐on Hop‐off Bus for **3** consecutive days, and receive a $5 discount on admission to ARTECHOUSE.
Le guide du voyageur averti : que faire à Washington DC ?
Le National Mall est le cœur battant de la ville et un lieu incontournable pour commencer votre visite de Washington DC. Oubliez les visites précipitées et optez pour un parcours plus réfléchi : commencez votre matinée à la National Gallery of Art, où la lumière inonde l'atrium vertigineux de l'East Building, conçu par I.M. Pei. Ici, les œuvres modernes de Rothko et Calder contrastent élégamment avec les maîtres anciens exposés dans le West Building, de l'autre côté du jardin.
Rendez-vous ensuite dans les joyaux méconnus de la Smithsonian Institution. Le Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden est un incontournable de Washington DC pour les amateurs d'art contemporain audacieux, tandis que le National Museum of African American History and Culture offre une expérience sobre et profondément émouvante, sans aucun doute l'une des meilleures choses à faire à Washington DC.
Que faire à Washington DC le soir : la culture après le crépuscule
À la tombée de la nuit, le cœur intellectuel de la ville continue de battre. Vous vous demandez quoi faire à Washington DC le soir ? Commencez par un cocktail avant le théâtre au bar sur le toit du Line Hotel à Adams Morgan, puis assistez à un spectacle au Kennedy Center, qui accueille ballet, jazz et symphonies dans un cadre spectaculaire au bord du fleuve. Pour une soirée plus intime, réservez des billets pour une pièce de théâtre à l'Arena Stage ou au Woolly Mammoth Theatre, où l'innovation règne et où les performances remettent souvent en question le statu quo.
Si vous avez envie de rythme, rendez-vous à U Street, le cœur historique du Black Broadway de Washington. Ici, le jazz s'échappe des coins drapés de velours du JoJo Restaurant and Bar et du Twins Jazz, faisant résonner les échos de légendes telles que Duke Ellington. La culture ne s'arrête pas à la tombée de la nuit, elle devient simplement plus intense.
Activités uniques à Washington DC : art, archives et ambiance
Pour les explorateurs à la recherche d'activités originales à Washington DC, la ville offre des trésors qui dépassent le cadre des livres d'histoire. Commencez votre journée à Georgetown, où les rues pavées et les maisons de ville de l'époque fédérale offrent un contraste charmant avec le centre-ville monumental. Visitez Dumbarton Oaks, un joyau architectural abritant des œuvres d'art byzantine et précolombienne, situé dans un jardin paisible qui semble à mille lieues de Pennsylvania Avenue.
Vous préférez allier histoire et design ? Réservez une visite guidée de la Bibliothèque du Congrès, l'une des plus belles bibliothèques du monde et un incontournable de Washington DC pour les amateurs d'architecture. Vous pouvez également explorer la Phillips Collection à Dupont Circle, le premier musée d'art moderne du pays, où les Rothko Rooms et les Renoirs cohabitent dans un espace serein et lumineux.
Une journée mémorable : que faire à Washington DC en une journée ?
Vous avez peu de temps mais beaucoup de curiosité ? Vous vous demandez quoi faire à Washington DC en une journée ? Commencez par une promenade au lever du soleil le long du Tidal Basin, où les cerisiers en fleurs encadrent le Jefferson Memorial dans des teintes pastel. Ensuite, visitez le United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, une expérience solennelle et transformatrice qui donnera tout son sens à votre journée.
À midi, explorez la Renwick Gallery près de la Maison Blanche, où l'artisanat américain et l'art contemporain se rencontrent dans des installations dignes d'Instagram. Déjeunez dans le quartier de Penn Quarter, par exemple chez Oyamel pour déguster les petits plats mexicains modernes de José Andrés, puis flânez jusqu'à la National Portrait Gallery, où des personnages historiques vous regardent avec gravité et humour.
48 heures de culture : que faire à Washington DC en deux jours
Vous avez un week-end de libre ? Savoir que vous disposez de deux jours à Washington DC vous permet de vous imprégner davantage de ses multiples facettes. Le premier jour, explorez les incontournables : musées, monuments commémoratifs et le quartier riverain de The Wharf, avec ses restaurants chics, ses salles de concert et ses bars à cocktails flottants.
Le deuxième jour, commencez par le quartier revitalisé d'Union Market. Flânez dans les boutiques, dégustez un espresso préparé par un expert à La Colombe, puis explorez les studios de design et les distilleries artisanales du quartier d'Ivy City. Plus tard, découvrez l'emblématique Howard Theatre ou participez à une visite guidée consacrée à l'histoire littéraire de Washington DC : Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston et Walt Whitman ont tous vécu dans cette ville.
Conclusion : L'art de savoir quoi faire à Washington DC
Washington DC est souvent définie par ce qui se passe dans ses grands halls du pouvoir, mais pour ceux qui regardent au-delà de la politique, c'est aussi une ville d'une immense vitalité artistique, de quartiers diversifiés et d'expériences luxueuses et discrètes. Que vous envisagiez de passer une journée à Washington DC ou de vous adonner à un itinéraire culturel complet, vous découvrirez une ville qui ne se contente pas d'afficher sa culture, mais qui la vit.
Des monuments en marbre aux galeries indépendantes, des archives murmurées au jazz sur les toits, la capitale réécrit sans cesse son histoire. La prochaine fois que vous vous demanderez quoi faire à Washington DC, sachez que les meilleures choses à faire à Washington DC ne se trouvent pas seulement dans les guides touristiques, mais dans les moments où vous vous autorisez à flâner, à vous attarder et à ressentir.