Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

Welcome to the nation’s capital! Whether you’re age 0 or 80, there's something for everyone during our Moore Family Reunion weekend. Below you’ll find fun attractions, delicious places to eat, and relaxing outdoor spots—all categorized by distance from our host hotel AC Hotel Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard (Marriott) located at 867 New Jersey Avenue SE, Washington, D.C. 20003.

 

Use the guide below to make the most of your free time in the city!

πŸšΆπŸΎβ€β™€οΈ Walkable (0–10 Minutes from Hotel)🚢🏽

🏞️ Attractions

  • Yards Park – Green space, splash pad for kids, and riverfront views.
  • Nationals Park – Catch a baseball game or stroll around the stadium plaza.
  • Canal Park – Shaded walkways, fountains, and pop-up art.

🍽️ Restaurants & Cafés (Navy Yard)

Top Picks

  • The Salt Line – Seafood & raw bar with waterfront views.
  • CIRCA at Navy Yard – American bistro ideal for brunch or casual dinner.
  • El Rey – 300-seat taco restaurant with $10 nachos and $7 margs.
  • Agua 301 – Stylish Mexican fare near the riverwalk.
  • Ama – Upscale Northern Italian cuisine with handmade pasta and shareable plates. Cozy and elegant.
  • Bluejacket – Popular brewery with a spacious dining area and hearty pub fare. Great for groups or casual hangs.
  • Ted’s Bulletin (Navy Yard) – A family-friendly diner with giant pop-tarts, brunch all day, and comfort classics.

Kid-Friendly Favorites

  • Gatsby – Retro diner near Nationals Park with burgers, fries, and milkshakes.
  • Silver Diner (Ballpark) – Classic American with healthy and comfort options.
  • Ice Cream Jubilee – Small-batch, creative ice cream flavors.

Rooftop & Vibes

  • Smoke & Mirrors – Tapas + cocktails with a rooftop view.
  • Top of the Yard – Rooftop lounge with Nationals Park views.

πŸš‡ Metro Ride / Short Drive (10–20 Minutes)

πŸ›οΈ Must-See Attractions

  • Smithsonian Museums – Air & Space, Natural History, American History, and more (all FREE!).
  • National Mall – Walk the Reflecting Pool, Lincoln Memorial, and MLK Jr. Memorial.
  • International Spy Museum – Hands-on exhibits great for kids 6+.
  • National Children's Museum – Interactive play with STEM learning.

🍴 Food Destinations

  • Ben’s Chili Bowl – Historic D.C. landmark known for chili dogs and half-smokes.
  • We, The Pizza – Giant slices and floats near Capitol Hill.
  • Florida Avenue Grill – Classic soul food and hearty breakfasts.
  • Union Market – Trendy food hall with global bites, artisan goods, and rooftop games.
  • Old Ebbitt Grill – A D.C. icon! Historic restaurant known for oysters, crab cakes, and rich American classics. Located near the White House.
  • La Grande Boucherie – Elegant French brasserie with a stunning interior and full raw bar. Ideal for date nights or refined dining.

πŸš— Worth the Drive (20–40 Minutes)

🌿 Nature & Relaxation

  • Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens – Seasonal blooms, walking paths, and serenity.
  • Rock Creek Park – Picnic areas, biking, and shaded hiking trails.
  • Georgetown Waterfront – Cupcakes, cafes, shopping, and people-watching by the river.
  • Tidal Basin Paddle Boats – Rent a paddle boat for a fun view of the Jefferson Memorial.

🍽️ Dining Destinations

  • Filomena Ristorante – Elegant Italian in Georgetown.
  • The Big Chair Café – Soulful breakfast/lunch spot near Anacostia.
  • Kitchen + Kocktails (by Kevin Kelley) – Soul food with a twist—upscale plating and vibey atmosphere. A great choice for grown-up brunch or dinner.
  • The Continent – Afro-fusion fine dining with West African flavors, creative plating, and rich culture. Ideal for adventurous palates and family dinner outings.

πŸš– Travel Tips & Tools

Getting around DC should be stress-free! Here are some options to consider:

  • Metro Access: Navy Yard-Ballpark (Green Line) is the closest stop.
  • Ride Apps: Uber, Lyft, and D.C. Circulator are great for short trips.
  • Parking: Use apps like SpotHero or ParkMobile for garages and street parking.
  • Weather Tips: July is hot and humid—bring sunscreen, comfy shoes, and water bottles!
  • Group-Friendly Tools: Download a walking tour app or rent bikes/scooters with Capital Bikeshare.

Additional Resources & Links