The holidays are a magical time to plan a trip to the District. Discover an array of seasonal activities, many of which are free, through our three-day itinerary below. If a one-horse open sleigh isn't available, consider using Metro for your excursions through the city.
Day 1
Morning
Warm up your morning with a visit to one of Washington, DC's many Smithsonian museums on the National Mall. From dinosaurs at the National Museum of Natural History to breathtaking displays at the renovated National Air and Space Museum to the vital stories featured inside the National Museum of African American History and Culture, each museum is a treasure trove for families.
Access the National Mall via the Smithsonian or Federal Triangle Metro stops.
Afternoon
Spend your day seeing DC’s iconic monuments and memorials on the National Mall. With Big Bus Tours, you can stay warm and cozy as you marvel at some of the city’s most popular attractions, such as the Washington Monument, memorials dedicated to Lincoln and Jefferson, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the World War II Memorial and many more.
Evening
©2026 Enchant | Courtesy of Social House Holiday, LLC
Head to Nationals Park, which transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland anchored by the World's Largest Christmas Light Maze when Enchant Christmas comes to town from Nov. 20 through Dec. 27. Expect breathtaking larger-than-life light sculptures, millions of twinkling lights, festive experiences around every corner and an all-new holiday adventure: Night of the Nutcrackers. Nationals Park is steps from the Navy Yard-Ballpark Metro stop. You can also venture over to Adams Morgan, where kids can enjoy ZooLights at the Smithsonian's National Zoo. The event features environmentally friendly animal light displays. The Zoo is within walking distance of the Woodley Park-Adams Morgan Metro stop.
Day 2
Morning
Head over to Chinatown (use the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro stop on the Red, Green and Yellow lines) for some shopping at the sparkling DowntownDC Holiday Market. With dozens of exhibitors and artisans displaying everything from fine arts to fair trade, you can find the perfect gift for everyone on your list. Live music also sets a holiday mood. The market will be open from Nov. 13 to Dec. 23.
Afternoon
Feel like a kid again at the National Gallery of Art, where you can go ice skating in the Sculpture Garden and then warm up with some hot chocolate. Of course, the museum’s East and West Buildings contain some of the finest works of art in the world, if you’re into that sort of thing.
Evening
Take in a holiday-themed show (or The Nutcracker, if you require pointe shoes on your stage) at one of DC’s many reputable theaters. The historic Ford’s Theatre, Arena Stage, Warner Theatre and many others all offer seasonal programming.
Day 3
Morning
Um, you might have some presents to buy, no? If so, the cobblestone streets of Georgetown make for a delightful morning destination. Get some shopping done in the city’s most fashionable neighborhood, where you’ll find an enticing selection of high-end options.
Afternoon
The Willard InterContinental Hotel’s gorgeous lobby gets decked out with all the holiday trimmings each year. Warm up with a hot toddy in the hotel’s lavish (and storied) Round Robin Bar or reserve a special holiday tea service. The hotel is conveniently located near the Metro Center stop.
Evening
We saved the best for last. Each evening, the National Christmas Tree (which usually makes its debut in early December) is lit at approximately 4:30 p.m. on the White House Ellipse, creating a holiday atmosphere that cannot be beaten. You can view and visit the tree, along with the National Menorah (lit during Chanukah each year), for free throughout the day and evening. The Pageant of Peace features smaller trees decorated for every state and territory, so make sure to pick yours out. The National Christmas Tree opens to the public with a special lighting ceremony.