Explore endless experiences that are unique to DC – and exclusive to you.
Monumental Memories
Private monument tour by foot, limo, electric car, bike or Segway
Do DC your way through a private tour of the National Mall’s monuments and memorials. There are many ways to make a tour your own, whether you want to give your legs a rest and explore DC by private car, USA Guided Tours’ convertible bus, Big Bus’ double-decker bus or Old Town Trolley’s private charter, or squeeze in some physical activity with City Running Tours, Unlimited Biking or a walking tour with a private guide. You could elect for a little push with WeVenture electric cars or E-Mile electric scooters. All these tour options are available day or night – each stunning in its own way.
Personalized iconic photo shoot
Washington, DC is full of inspiring scenery and iconic monuments only found in the nation’s capital that are guaranteed to be a gorgeous backdrop for your private photoshoot. For family portraits, check out Jason Weil Photography. If you’re in the city solo, Jon Armstrong Photography can capture a self-portrait and bring it to life.
Catered picnic lunch at Hains Point or Gravelly Point
In DC, one of the greenest cities in the U.S. and home to two stunning rivers, there’s no better way to relax than with a catered picnic lunch. Hains Point offers views of the Anacostia River and the National Mall surrounded by the famous cherry blossom trees. Grabbing a spot on the grass is always an option, and private, covered tables can be reserved through the National Park Service. Another breathtaking view comes courtesy of Gravelly Point, accessible by car or bike on the Mount Vernon Trail. Lay out your blanket and watch planes descend at Reagan National Airport (DCA) right above you. Picnic baskets can be included in stays with the JW Marriott Washington, DC or The Watergate Hotel, or picked up from Wharf restaurant staple Officina.
Museum Upgrades
Regularly scheduled free docent tours
Enhance your visit to many DC museums by joining a regularly occurring docent tour. Benefit from expert conversation on must-see highlights or exhibit themes. Peruse the options below for a free, no-obligation way to make your itinerary unique to you.
Free docent tours on request
Deep dive into crafted information with a by-request docent tour. Wow yourself and your friends with these limited capacity, lesser-known offerings.
Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens private tours and professional photography
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Hillwood offers several private tour options, including a docent-led mansion and garden tour, curator-led private mansion or exhibition tours or a specialty focused garden tour. Specialty garden tours include horticulture staff-led greenhouse tours during orchid month (March), summer cutting garden tours, full mum tours and holiday décor tours. High tea can be included before or after a tour, or as a stand-alone experience.
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The Hillwood Estate and Gardens also hosts Guided Forest Bathing Walks inspired by Japanese practices. Participants are guided on a slow, calming walk through the fall gardens and are invited to participate in sensory activities created to engage the nature surrounding them.
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Professional photography is allowed at the Gardens with prior scheduling and confirmation, usually during normal business hours. Only cameras and tripods allowed; no external lighting or props permitted.
Museum of the Bible enhanced add-ons
Museum of the Bible’s premium experiences use cutting-edge technology to engage visitors with the history of the Bible. All Creation Sings is an immersive workshop experience that highlights expressions of worship in the Bible and throughout history using vibrant displays and narration. Virtual reality and multi-sensory tour options are available, featuring the lands of the Bible and biblical references across Washington, DC.
International Spy Museum tour with former CIA agent
The International Spy Museum offers guided ultimate VIP tours with former CIA agents, intelligence officers and historians. These specialized guides curate unique experiences for visitors, providing not only insight into the museum, but also hands-on experiences. Two weeks prior to their visit, visitors can read the bios of different intelligence officers and request to tour with the one who intrigues them most.
Mansion on O Street and O Street Museum
The Mansion on O Street combines art, architecture, literature, history and plenty of quirk to create exhilarating and entertaining experiences. The Mansion offers a variety of add-on experiences to elevate visits. Premium experiences include the Champagne Tour, Secret Doors Tour, High Tea, Night at the Museum and Bluegrass Jam. The Champagne Tour includes a glass of champagne while guests explore over 100 rooms and 80 secret doors. The Secret Door Tour is a self-guided adventure through secret doors and hidden passages, prompting guests to draw on their sleuthing skills to explore. The High Tea includes five courses and a self-guided tour of the Mansion. Guests have the choice of a butler or private service. Night at the Museum invites guests to spend the night at the Mansion with an exclusive self-guided tour, unique bedrooms with private bathrooms and family rooms, private outdoor gardens and complimentary Wi-Fi inside and outside. Bluegrass Jam features performances at the Mansion by the DC Bluegrass Union.
The National Law Enforcement Officers Museum driving simulation
The Driving Simulator allows visitors to place themselves in the driver’s seat of a squad car and experience real situations officers may witness on the roads. The simulator and instructor with law enforcement experience allow visitors to better understand the dynamics between a patrol officer and other drivers.
National Museum of Women in the Arts private tour
Learn about the contribution of women artists through an interactive guided tour. Docents lead the way, adapting highlighted collections and exhibitions to fit the interests, needs and learning outcomes of each group. Guided tours can be requested through a request form.
Planet Word provides a word-sleuthing adventure, Lexicon Lane, for groups or individuals. Use clues to solve a case containing a set of themed word puzzles. Featured cases include Family Friendly Fun, Village Favorites and Looking for a Challenge. Must be 12+ to participate.
The Phillips Collection
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Workshops and artist talks: Designed around special exhibits, consider adding an artist-led workshop or talk to your visit. These special events are included in general admission but must be reserved in advance.
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Phillips Music: Phillips Music presents the best of established artists to promising young musicians and performers from around the world through Sunday Concerts, Leading International Composers and Coda Sessions. The Music Room is also available to rent for private use.
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Group tours: One-hour guided tours that encourage discussion and questioning are available to book with a docent.
Woodrow Wilson House Executive Director Tour
For 75 minutes, see Woodrow Wilson’s house and museum through the eyes of the Executive Director, the person who knows it best. The Director provides insights into every artifact, highlighting the changing world of the early 20th century. Hear stories about the Wilson family and why their house is still a special landmark.
Museum After Hours Events
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Live! at the Library - Library of Congress: The Library’s Thomas Jefferson Building is open for extended hours every Thursday evening from 5-8 p.m., serving happy hour snacks and drinks available for purchase in the Great Hall. Visitors can immerse themselves in the Library’s exhibits, collections and programs.
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Concerts at the National Museum of American History: The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra and maestro Charlie Young perform concerts at the National Museum of American History with tickets ranging from $25 to $45. Table seats surround four-top tables in front of the stage; standard seats are single chairs in raised rows.
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Smithsonian Sleepovers: On Fridays and Saturdays throughout the summer, children ages 8-14 and their adults are welcome to wander the National Museum of Natural History afterhours, wondering at the Hall of Fossils, Division of Mammals and Sant Ocean Hall, as well as participate in games and challenges throughout the night.
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Phillips After 5: The Phillips Collection, America’s first modern art museum, hosts occasional soirées after regular operating hours from 5-8:30 p.m. Phillips After 5 consists of Spotlight Talks, live music and food and beverages.
Donor and Membership Based Benefits
Many federally funded attractions provide exclusive benefits only to their donors and/or members. Becoming a member or providing a donation not only supports these invaluable sites, but allows access to which few are privy. Find below a review of some of these opportunities.
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National Archives Foundation Benefits: The National Archives provides specialty benefits through its foundation membership program. Core highlights for all beneficiary levels include a digital newsletter subscription, email updates and a 10% discount year-round plus additional seasonal discounts with museum admission and guided tours varying based on benefit level.
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Smithsonian Institution: Several museums within the Smithsonian Institution allow for exclusive opportunities catered by each museum's individual Advancement Offices. Examples include private, docent-led tours or behind-the-scenes tours of the National Museum of Natural History; private, curator-led tours, drawing classes or specialized VIP tours at the National Portrait Gallery; personalized VIP docent tours or behind-the-scenes collections tours at the National Museum of American History; access to Member Passes to visit the new West End galleries at the National Mall location, personal docent-led tours or private curator-led tours upon request at the National Air and Space Museum. Offerings are based on giving level and availability. For more information, please contact Destination DC through the button at the top of the page.
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United States Capitol Historical Society Individual Membership: Membership with the U.S. Capitol Historical Society provides many benefits, including tours. The three-month, non-renewable Introductory Membership receives the benefit of an interior Capitol tour.
Embassy Events
Embassy Chef Challenge / Events DC
Washington, DC is the only city in the world that is home to over 200 embassies and cultural institutions. A trip to DC is not complete without traveling the world through cultural festivities. Step onto the grounds of another country without leaving the city by exploring a collection of ticketed events gathered by Things to Do DC and International Club of DC.
On the Water
With DC truly a water town, bordered by the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers, there’s no shortage of boating options. If you like to be the captain of your own ship, these experiences may be for you. REI Co-op and Boating in DC provide private kayak and paddle boat tours with sunset views of the monuments, full moon kayak tours and themed ghost trips. Let SeaDC Electric Boat Rentals help you take an easy-to-drive electric boat for a spin with up to 10 of your friends.
If you’re aiming to sit back and relax while cruising on the water, let a pro be your captain. Aboard Mahogany Boat Charters and Embark DC, guests can experience a curated and customized boat ride to celebrate a special occasion—or just because. Or enjoy a night under the stars with a signature City Cruises dinner cruise. For the ultimate luxurious aquatic experience, book a trip with Nautiste Yacht Experiences that includes a meal from a Michelin starred chef and sommelier, or “Sea the City” if you wish to take in the views from the boat while lounging in a hot tub.
Showcase the Arts
Work with local artist Rajan Sedalia on a personalized graffiti art class or other experience.
Located in the heart of historic Georgetown in an 18th century red brick carriage house, Blues Alley offers its patrons a unique ambiance, reminiscent of the jazz clubs of the 1920s and 30s. Founded in 1965, Blues Alley is the nation's oldest continuously operating jazz supper club, having showcased internationally renowned concert hall artists such as Dizzy Gillespie, Sarah Vaughan, Nancy Wilson, Grover Washington, Jr., Ramsey Lewis, Charlie Byrd, Maynard Ferguson and Eva Cassidy in an intimate setting. The venue currently offers dinner/show packages available for 12 or more with set menus.
Join tour guide and mural art curator Jason Bowers in a deep dive of DC’s famous murals and the stories behind them. Tour offerings can also include craft breweries along the Metropolitan Branch Trail or libations in the hip Union Market area.
Howard Theatre Premiere Booth Seating
The legendary Howard Theatre, once a jazz venue for the likes of Duke Ellington and Ella Fitzgerald, today welcomes artists of all kinds to its iconic stage. Premiere Booth seating for small groups is available for purchase. Balcony Booth seating includes dining service.
Kennedy Center Membership Benefits
The Kennedy Center provides membership benefits on a tiered scale. Depending on level, exclusive privileges can include members-only Ticket Priority, access to purchase event passes to Fireworks on the Fourth, access to the Kennedy Center Honors Priority Waitlist, use of the Preferred Access Ticket Line and invitations to four NSO Working Rehearsals and a Ballet Working Rehearsal. Eligibility to request a private, behind-the-scenes tour of the Concert Hall, Opera House or Eisenhower Theater also available.
The historic National Theatre offers Circle Memberships to upgrade your visit. The Director’s Circle level extends an option for the member and three guests to attend a private, behind-the-scenes tour of the theater and archive.
Warner Theatre Live Nation VIP Perks
The perks of VIP Membership at Warner Theatre include VIP Club access, the best seats in the house and personalized services. VIP ticket packages include premium, extra-wide plush seating, exclusive food and beverages, complimentary parking, show admission and express entry to the venue.
Specialty Tours
Personalized Private Guiding
The sky is the limit when it comes to personalized and private tours that can only be found in DC. Gain a deeper perspective of the city in and beyond the National Mall with specialty tour companies like DC Design Tours, A Tour of Her Own, Black Broadway Tours, Off the Mall Tours or Comedy Walks. And if someone truly created towards your passions is the ticket, work with a licensed tour guide from the Guild of Professional Tour Guides of Washington, DC, Need to See in DC, LLC or Kathleen Bashian: Professional Tour Guide.
Ford’s Theatre Private History on Foot Tour
Step back in time with Ford’s Theatre and join Detective McDevitt on the History on Foot tour that brings history back to life! Revisit the sites and reexamine clues from the investigation surrounding President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. This private, 1.6 mile walking tour makes eight stops along the way in downtown DC.
National Cathedral Guided Tours
National Cathedral guided tours have something for everyone: favorite features, breathtaking vistas, exclusive access to see the Cathedral's art and architecture like never before—and more. Tour options include Behind the Scenes, Guided Spotlights, Tower Climbs and Thematic Tours on topics such as Stained Glass or Humor & Whimsy.
Smithsonian Associates Study Tours
Smithsonian Associates—the largest museum-based education program in the world—produces vibrant educational and cultural programming that offers unparalleled access to the Smithsonian's world of knowledge. Each tour is led by a Study Leader with expertise in the subject matter along with a Smithsonian Representative to handle all the logistics and comforts of the group. The study leader imparts knowledge both formally and informally throughout the tour, with methods that can include a background lecture, handout materials, site visit narration and stimulating social engagement with all participants during the course of the tour.
The Spyher founder, CIA veteran Rosanna Minchew, brings spy-themed guided tours for companies, couples, families and espionage lovers to multiple neighborhoods in DC. Spyher walking tours are unforgettable for both history buffs and those simply curious about the undercover world of DC. Choose from five different tour experiences that each target a different neighborhood in the city.
Guided Brewery Tours
Craft your own experience of DC’s best beer tastings and food pairings with DDC partners City Brew Tours or DC Crawling.
Wine Country Tours
Indulge in a trip to Loudoun County, DC’s Wine Country, for a chauffeured day of wine tasting and Blue Ridge Mountain viewing. Companies such as Spirited Tours, Reston Limousine and Black Hawk Sedans will work with you on your perfect day from start to finish.
Treat yourself to a spot of tea on this adorable double decker bus as you take in the city and savor fine teas, delectable treats and live entertainment. Luxe and petite packages available.
The WAMU 88.5 tour provides visitors with a fun and educational behind-the-scenes look at how a public radio station (DC’s local NPR syndicate) operates. The tour includes a visit to WAMU’s radio production studios, performance spaces and work areas.
Outdoor and Athletic Experiences
Loge boxes are the most exclusive seats available, located directly on the field. Guests at Audi Field for DC United men’s soccer, Washington Spirit women’s soccer or DC Defenders United Football League can enjoy their own private box with premium culinary options available. Game day benefits include 8 tickets per match, all-inclusive food and beverage (beer, wine and mixed cocktails are options) and in-seat waitstaff service with access to the FanDuel Sportsbook.
Eaton DC is the first and flagship property from Eaton Workshop, a new global, mission-driven company and creative lab. Apart from accommodations, Eaton DC offers an inclusive gathering place for changemakers, creatives and free thinkers to follow their bliss. The property offers a variety of wellness classes through their Eaton Wellness program.
Monumental Premiere at Capital One Arena
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Entertain memorably during a single event rental with options ranging from 6 to 54 guests. Capitals and Wizards suite rentals purchased through Capital One Arena provide a complimentary food and beverage package including an assigned catering team member. Suite rentals are available for all events, including Capitals, Wizards and Georgetown University Men's Basketball, plus concerts and special events.
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Players Club Membership includes perks such as Capitals and Wizards Playoff games, a team of Client Services and Ticket Operations professionals to serve as your go-to for all events, exclusive entrance that opens 90 minutes before games and 1 hour before concerts, priority presale access to purchase tickets for concerts and special events and an array of exclusive Premier Parties, including Meet the Team parties, autograph sessions and alumni visits.
Nationals Park
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Terra Club: The Terra Club allows fans field-level club seats directly behind home plate, and an all-inclusive food and beverage menu featuring premium chef’s tables, a fully stocked private bar, in-seat food and beverage service and private restrooms.
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MGM National Harbor Dugout Club: The premier luxury experience at Nationals Park. The Dugout Club includes an eight-seat premier luxury sports box adjacent to the Nationals Dugout. Other benefits: all-inclusive food and alcoholic beverages, access to the Terra Club and PNC Diamond Club, plush leather recliner seats, TVs for each seat, a personal attendant, private restrooms and a dedicated VIP entrance. The Dugout Club is available for groups of 4, 6 or 8.
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Ballpark Tours: Get a behind-the-scenes look at Nationals Park. Tour options include Pregame, Governor’s Tour on non-game days and private access to ballpark amenities.
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Washington Mystics Premium Hospitality: Experience Mystics games at DC’s Entertainment and Sports Arena from an exclusive VIP Hospitality area: Above the Rim (accommodates 30 people), the Terrace (up to 40 people), High Five Huddle (behind the scenes, lower bowl seats, can accommodate up to 20 guests) or lower level and lower sideline tickets. You can also book Special Ticket Offers like Brunch & Basketball and Panda Pack.
Washington Wizards: Hennessy Courtside Lofts
Enjoy the ultimate VIP fan and dining experience at a Washington Wizards men’s basketball game. The Hennessy Wizards Courtside Lofts are located on the floor of the arena with unparalleled close-up views of the game and are equipped with dining tables that can accommodate between four to six guests. While watching the game courtside, fans can enjoy a curated five-course dining experience with access to a full menu of beer, wine and cocktails served directly to their seat.
Urban Oasis: Rock Creek Park History Hike
Celebrate the best urban park system in the country with a guided jaunt. Established in 1890, Rock Creek Park was the third National Park created in the United States, and the first in a major city. During this 4-mile hike, learn about the more than 2,000 acres (twice the size of Central Park) set aside as a refuge for wildlife and an escape for DC locals, meticulously laid out by the famous Olmstead brothers.
Shopping
The ultimate Downtown destination for global style and trends, offering one of DC’s best shopping experiences. Our collection boasts some of the most luxurious brands in the world. Explore our retailers and check out the CCDC Journal for upcoming events and stories featuring the most celebrated names in fashion.
World-class shopping greets you in the historic neighborhood of Georgetown. Recognized as one of the best shopping streets in the country, M Street frequently serves as the starting point for many visitors, connecting the charming neighborhood to Foggy Bottom and Downtown DC to the east and Virginia to the west. At the intersection of M Street and Wisconsin Avenue, the heart of Georgetown, find boutique-lined streets extending in all four directions.
Leesburg Premium Outlets is located a short distance from Dulles International Airport (IAD) and Washington, DC. Shop more than one hundred designers and name-brand outlet stores including your favorites, such as Armani Outlet, Burberry, Kate Spade New York, Michael Kors, Nike, Old Navy Outlet, Polo Ralph Lauren Factory Store, Theory, Tory Burch, Vineyard Vines and Williams-Sonoma Outlet. No matter what you decide, your trip to Leesburg Premium Outlets will be unforgettable!
Tanger National Harbor offers the nation's capital and its 40 million annual visitors the best in outlet shopping including some 85 brand-name outlets. These include Elie Tahari, Under Armour, Movado, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, Pandora, Polo, H&M, Nike, Coach, TUMI, Tommy Hilfiger, Brooks Brothers, Kate Spade, Cole Haan, Theory and more. Tanger National Harbor brings the ultimate shopping experience to this premier lifestyle destination.
Signature Event Inclusions
National Cherry Blossom Festival Pink Tie Party
Mark your calendar to kick off spring at the National Cherry Blossom Festival’s annual Pink Tie Party. Walk the runway in your finest pink attire through the world’s most iconic springtime and fashion destinations, enjoy international culinary delights and cocktails from the best DC area restaurants and bid on items from an exclusive auction to prepare for your next getaway. Enjoy live entertainment and dancing while you welcome spring in high style.
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DC JazzFest at the Anthem Gold VIP Experience: Gold VIP Experience tickets include one premium reserved seat in the first ten rows or VIP Box, access for one to the VIP Anthem Marquee Lounge with complimentary food, exclusive VIP gift items, designated VIP check-in and on-site VIP event staff.
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The Wharf Jazz VIP Club: VIP tickets at The Wharf include access to the Jazz VIP Club with a glass-enclosed, air-conditioned lounge overlooking the Potomac River, complimentary food and drinks from a select drink menu and first-come, first-serve seating in the first rows in front of the stage. Or, watch the show from the comforts of the VIP Club.
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