Looking for some fun nighttime activities in Washington DC?
There are so many fun things to do in Washington DC at night. Between museum events, comedy shows, and restaurants and bars open as late as 2 or 3 AM, there are a lot of late-night activities in DC!
I live 30 minutes from the Capitol, and I’ve spent a lot of weekends in DC! If you’re a local looking for some nightlife recommendations or a tourist wondering what to do in DC after dark, this list will show you some of the best activities you can enjoy in the nation’s capital when the sun goes down.
Short on time?
DC truly shines after dark! Here are my favorite things to do at night in the city:
- See the National Monuments & Memorials all lit up on this beautiful night tour.
- Catch a special after-hours event at one of the Smithsonian Museums.
- Take a ghost tour through Georgetown and explore its spooky charm.
- Watch a live show at the Kennedy Center.
- Walk through the U Street Corridor for great food, live music, and nightlife energy.
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10 Fun Nighttime Activities in Washington DC
Washington DC offers plenty to do after hours, whether you’re into history, art, live performances, or just want a relaxing evening out.
Here are 10 of the best ways to experience the nation’s capital at night!
1. Visit the National Monuments & Memorials at Night
One of the best things to do in DC at night is visit the National Monuments and Memorials. There are so many nighttime guided tours in DC to see iconic landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the World War II Memorial lit up against the night sky.
It’s my top activity for a night out in DC! You can peacefully enjoy these monuments without the daytime crowds, and on a tour like this one, too!
➡️ Click here for an amazing night tour of the National Monuments & Memorials!
2. Explore the Smithsonian Museums’ Night Events
Did you know that a lot of free museums in Washington DC? Plus, Smithsonian museums offer special nighttime events throughout the year!
From late-night museum tours to special exhibits and lectures, you can experience the city’s world-class cultural institutions in a whole new light, often with fewer people around.
Be sure to visit the Smithsonian Institution’s website for more details about night events, so you can plan accordingly!
3. Watch a Show at the Kennedy Center
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is one of my favorite places to experience world-class performances. They have everything, from theater, ballet, symphonic music, comedy, and more!
There are shows nearly every night, and you can check out their free performances at the Millennium Stage or splurge for tickets to a major production. For a full list of upcoming performances, be sure to visit the Kennedy Center’s website.
4. Stroll through the U Street Corridor
Known for its rich history in jazz, the U Street Corridor really comes alive after dark. It was once home to jazz greats like Duke Ellington, Billie Holiday, and Cab Calloway.
Today, U Street is a great place for a night out, with plenty of bars, live music venues, and restaurants to explore. Stop by the famous Ben’s Chili Bowl for a late-night snack (you have to try the Original Half Smoke) or catch a show at the renowned 9:30 Club.
5. Go to a Rooftop Bar
DC has plenty of trendy rooftop bars with stunning views of the city’s skyline and monuments! Enjoy a craft cocktail (and some delicious eats) at The Hamilton or take in the view from the Top of the Gate at the Watergate Hotel (yes, THE Watergate Hotel, where the scandal was!).
There are some awesome rooftop bars in the Wharf DC, like Whiskey Charlie, which offer some amazing waterfront views and craft cocktails. Definitely worth checking out and doing some bar-hopping during your visit!
6. See a Performance at The Shakespeare Theatre
If you’re interested in seeing a show, head over to the Shakespeare Theatre Company. The Theatre Company performs in two locations, Klein Theatre and Harman Hall in DC.
They stage some of the best Shakespearean productions and contemporary works, with a mix of classic and modern performances. Be sure to visit their website for upcoming performances! (I really want to see Romeo + Juliet here someday).
7. Catch a Late-Night Dinner at a Trendy Restaurant
DC is home to a thriving culinary scene, with a variety of trendy restaurants serving up late-night bites.
Visit upscale places like Zaytinya for some original craft cocktails and elevated small plates, or indulge in some midnight sushi at Sushi Taro (one of my favorite spots for sushi in DC). There are so many good restaurants in DC where you can grab a delicious meal after a full day of sightseeing.
8. Explore Charming Georgetown
Georgetown is a charming neighborhood that looks even more picturesque at night. You can go shopping along M Street or stroll along the C&O Canal – I highly recommend doing both as the sun starts to set!
The area’s historic streets and waterfront make for a romantic and relaxed evening. Plus, Georgetown has plenty of cozy cafes and upscale restaurants (like the famous Martin’s Tavern, where JFK proposed to Jackie Kennedy) for a night out.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take this walking ghost tour!
➡️ Click here for a fun Georgetown walking ghost tour!
9. Attend a Late Night Comedy Show
DC’s comedy scene is booming, with plenty of venues offering late-night shows. You can catch a stand-up show at The DC Improv, or watch some improv comedy at the Washington Improv Theater.
I personally recommend The DC Improv over the Washington Improv Theater. The food and service are better at The DC Improv, and you can make a fun evening out of it!
10. Explore The Wharf at Night
The Wharf offers a lot of nighttime activities that are seasonal, like a wintertime ice rink, fireworks shows for the Fourth of July, and s’mores roasting.
They also have fun shops and markets open all year round. Don’t miss the Municipal Fish Market, where you can pick up some fresh crab legs and hot spiced shrimp! You can also rent a boat and catch a live performance 365 days a year!
Be sure to check out The Wharf’s website for a full list of upcoming performances and things to do during your stay!
Getting Around
Washington DC has a convenient and accessible public transportation system, making it easy to get around at night.
The Metro operates until midnight on weekdays (and later on weekends), and the city is also very walkable, especially around popular tourist areas like the National Mall and Georgetown. Rideshare options like Uber and Lyft are also available if you need to get around at night (don’t drink at night! DC has very strict laws).
Where to Stay
Here are some great hotel choices that place you in the heart of the city, making it easy to explore during your visit:
📍 Budget Option: For travelers seeking a budget-friendly yet modern stay, State Plaza Hotel offers nice rooms with all the essential amenities. Its central location, a few blocks away from the White House, provides easy access to popular attractions without breaking the bank.
📍 Mid-Range Option: Located within walking distance of iconic landmarks like the White House and National Mall, the Hamilton Hotel combines stylish accommodations with a prime location. It’s the perfect balance of comfort and convenience for travelers who want to experience the best of D.C. without overspending.
📍 Luxury Option: For a truly indulgent stay, The Willard InterContinental is a historic hotel that has welcomed guests since 1818. Offering opulent rooms and impeccable service, this luxurious hotel is situated just steps from the National Mall, providing stunning views and easy access to monuments and museums.
FAQs
Some of the most common questions about visiting Washington DC at night.
Can you walk around DC at night?
Yes, Washington DC is generally safe to walk around at night, especially in popular areas like downtown, the National Mall, and Georgetown. However, like any major city, it’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings and stick to well-lit areas.
Does Washington DC. have a nightlife?
Yes! Washington DC has a lively nightlife scene with everything from upscale bars and lounges to live music venues, comedy clubs, and late-night restaurants. You can dance, catch a show, explore some late-night museum exhibits in DC, or relax and have a drink at a late-night bar. You’ll find plenty of things to do at night in DC!
Can you visit DC monuments at night?
Yes, most of the monuments in Washington DC are open 24/7 and are beautifully illuminated at night. It’s one of the best ways to experience them without the crowds, and it gives the monuments a completely different vibe after dark.
Is 3 nights in Washington DC enough?
One to three nights in Washington DC is generally enough to get a solid introduction to the city, visit its most famous monuments and museums, and experience its nightlife. However, if you want to explore the city in more depth or venture outside the main attractions and do some fun day trips from DC, you might want to consider an extended stay.
Summary: Nighttime in Washington DC
Washington DC is really exciting when the sun goes down. There’s no shortage of things to do in the nation’s capital, whether you’re strolling by monuments, enjoying a night at the theater, or grabbing dinner at one of the city’s many hotspots.
The nighttime energy here is vibrant, diverse, and always welcoming. If you’re here for a short visit, be sure to carve out some time to explore DC after dark—you’ll see a whole new side of the city!
Happy travels!
About the Author
Sasha is the founder of Little Happy Travels, a blog with tips and inspiration for combining work + travel and living the digital nomad lifestyle. As a business coach and remote worker, she’s spent the last few years traveling the world while helping others do the same. Follow for guides, tips, and personal stories on working from anywhere!
