World-class venues, championship-caliber teams, top-tier fan bases and unforgettable event experiences await in the nation's capital.
Washington, DC's sports culture goes beyond game day. With eight professional teams, a deep bench of universities and other fan-favorite leagues, athletics are central to life in DC. Spectatorship is a sport of its own, with fans who show up and show out all year long.
Accessible, state-of-the-art facilities, scenic running and biking routes, and buzzing fan bases make it shine as a host city.
Home to champions and legendary athletes
DC fields a team in every major American sport and boasts a rich tradition of athletic excellence:
- Washington Capitals (NHL): 2018 Stanley Cup champions, led by hockey legend Alex Ovechkin
- Washington Nationals (MLB): 2019 World Series champions
- D.C. United (MLS): Four-time MLS Cup champions
- Washington Spirit (NWSL): 2021 NWSL Championship winners; 2025 NWSL Challenge Cup champions and home of USWNT star Trinity Rodman
- Washington Wizards (NBA): Featuring dynamic NBA action at Capital One Arena
- Washington Mystics (WNBA): 2019 WNBA champions
- Washington Commanders (NFL): 2020 NFC East champions, playing just outside the city in Landover, Md.
- DC Defenders (UFL): 2023 North Division champions
Washington Capitals
Find a home team in DC
Elite venues for every event
DC provides a venue for every sport and at every scale. Each major stadium and arena includes comprehensive accessibility features, ensuring an inclusive experience for all athletes and attendees.
Venues: Capital One Arena, Audi Field, CareFirst Arena, the Fields at RFK, Walter E. Washington Convention Center and more
Explore Venues
Jaw-dropping views in the heart of the city
DC’s award-winning park system enhances its appeal as a sports destination. This is especially true for endurance events like runs and marathons, which leverage the city's historic landmarks and green spaces to elevate the athlete and spectator experience.
Locations: Rock Creek Park (1,754 acres), National Mall, more trails and routes
Signature races: Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, Marine Corps Marathon, DC Bike Ride
Bring your event to DC
Whether you’re planning a large-scale tournament or an intimate amateur competition, the city is equipped to deliver.
A destination that delivers
Whether you're attending a major league matchup, participating in a bucket-list race, or planning your own event, Washington, DC offers a sports experience like no other. With its unmatched mix of history, accessibility, infrastructure and excitement, DC is truly a one-of-a-kind destination for sports tourism.
Our partners
Destination DC embraces the nation’s capital as a premier sports town, working closely with a trusted network of Sports Partners who help bring world-class events to life. Here, you’ll find a selection of our preferred partners, complete with links for more information.
More ways to get in on the action
Share Your Fan Moments
Be a part of something unforgettable at a game in DC. Share your game highlights with #Only1DC, from the amazing venues to the nail-biting seconds before the buzzer goes off.
