Washington, DC is best known for the National Mall, the White House, and the Smithsonian museums. These sites are remarkable, yet the city also offers experiences beyond the usual itinerary. From tucked-away gardens to local markets and cultural spaces, there are unique things to do in Washington, DC that reveal its character in unexpected ways.
For anyone eager to uncover DC’s hidden gems, the following destinations highlight a side of the capital that’s loved by visitors and locals alike.
Old Post Office Tower
The Old Post Office Tower is often overlooked because many visitors don’t realize it has its own entrance on 12th Street NW, separate from the Waldorf Astoria. From the observation deck, you’ll see the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, and the Potomac River with fewer crowds than at the Washington Monument.
The tower’s Romanesque Revival design adds to the experience, making it both an architectural and visual highlight. For those exploring DC off the beaten path, it’s a spectacular place to take in the city.
Address: 1100 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Folger Shakespeare Library and Theatre
For literary enthusiasts, the Folger Shakespeare Library and Theatre is a must-visit. The library holds the world’s largest collection of Shakespeare’s works and related materials. Beyond the impressive holdings, the theatre stages innovative performances of Shakespeare’s plays and other classics.
The exhibitions and reading rooms provide a glimpse into Renaissance culture, while the performances bring timeless stories to life in an intimate setting.
Address: 201 East Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Dupont Underground
Dupont Underground transforms an abandoned streetcar station beneath Dupont Circle into a cultural venue. This repurposed space now hosts art installations, theatre productions, film screenings, and community events. Graffiti and large-scale murals line the tunnels, adding to the creative energy of the venue. For those searching for unusual DC attractions, the experience of exploring this underground cultural hub is unlike anything else in the city.
Address: 19 Dupont Circle NW, Washington, DC 20036
Dumbarton Oaks
Dumbarton Oaks is a historic estate in Georgetown with expansive gardens and a museum filled with Byzantine and pre-Columbian art. The gardens, designed by Beatrix Farrand, feature winding paths, terraces, and water features that shift in character with each season.
Inside the museum, visitors encounter rare manuscripts, intricate mosaics, and ancient artifacts. Dumbarton Oaks offers a calm, contemplative environment just steps away from the bustle of city streets.
Address: 1703 32nd St NW, Washington, DC 20007
National Postal Museum
The capital is synonymous with museums, but if you want to experience Washington, DC off the beaten path, we have the Smithsonian museum for you. The National Postal Museum, located near Union Station, celebrates the history of communication and the role of the postal system in shaping the nation.
The exhibits include vintage mail trucks, historic airmail planes, and one of the largest stamp collections in the world. Interactive displays let visitors design their own stamps or learn about the challenges faced by early letter carriers. This museum highlights an often-overlooked part of American history in a way that is both informative and engaging.
Address: 2 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002
Spanish Steps
Tucked away in the Kalorama neighborhood, the Spanish Steps are a charming stone staircase that feels like a piece of Europe hidden in plain sight. Built in 1911, the steps connect S Street and Decatur Place with graceful balustrades and iron lamps. The quiet setting makes it a favorite for photos, peaceful walks, or a moment of escape from busy streets nearby.
As one of the true hidden gems in Washington, DC, the Spanish Steps are a perfect reminder that small details often reveal the city’s unique character.
Address: 22nd St NW & S St NW, Washington, DC 20008
Eastern Market
Eastern Market is one of the oldest public markets in Washington, DC. The market has served Capitol Hill since 1873 and remains a lively hub for local vendors. On weekends, outdoor stalls fill with artists, farmers, and food producers. Inside the historic building, butchers, bakers, and cheesemongers sell fresh goods to longtime residents and visitors alike.
Stopping at Eastern Market provides a sense of continuity, showing how community traditions remain strong in a modern city.
Address: 225 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
DC Alley Museum
The DC Alley Museum transforms outdoor alleyways into galleries for large-scale murals and street art. Located around Blagden Alley, the project invites local artists to showcase work on garage doors, walls, and hidden corners. Walking through the alleys reveals vibrant imagery that captures the city’s creativity and cultural diversity.
The murals change over time, so no two visits are the same. It’s one of the unusual things to do in DC that highlights the city’s evolving artistic identity.
Address: Blagden Alley NW, Washington, DC 20001
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens
Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a natural retreat that feels far removed from downtown Washington, DC. Located in the northeast section of the city, the park features ponds filled with lotus and water lilies, along with walking trails that wind through marshland. Birdwatchers can spot herons, egrets, and other wildlife.
The annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival draws visitors each summer, but even outside the event, the gardens provide a peaceful setting for those exploring hidden gems in DC.
Address: 1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019
Tudor Place
Tudor Place in Georgetown is a Federal-style mansion once owned by descendants of Martha Washington. The home contains original furnishings, decorative arts, and personal items that bring early American history to life. Its gardens and grounds are equally compelling, offering shaded walks and seasonal plantings. Tudor Place is an example of the hidden gems of Washington, DC, giving insight into domestic life during the 19th century.
Address: 1644 31st St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Discover More With Keener Management
Exploring these off-the-beaten-path Washington, DC destinations is only part of the experience. To make the most of your time in the capital, it helps to stay in a neighborhood that connects you directly to the city’s energy. Keener Management offers luxury apartment living in some of the most desirable neighborhoods, including Dupont Circle, Logan Circle, Woodley Park, 14th Street, Kalorama, Columbia Heights, and Georgetown.
Our properties are known for prime locations, modern amenities, and attentive service that makes daily living seamless. From historic buildings with character to contemporary residences with updated features, every Keener Management property balances style and convenience.
When you choose us, you’re not just finding a place to stay—you’re gaining access to the hidden gems of DC with a home base that puts the city at your doorstep.
Explore Keener Management’s available units today to find your next Washington, DC apartment.