Discover Washington, DC During America's 250th

Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Washington, DC’s rich history and vibrant culture through an exploration of its national parks as we celebrate America’s 250th anniversary. Whether you’re in town for a big event or just passing through, there are national parks waiting for you right in the neighborhood.

1. Old Stone House

Step inside the oldest unchanged building in Washington, D.C., dating back to 1765. Located in Georgetown and part of Rock Creek Park, this preserved home offers a glimpse into pre-Revolutionary life and a quieter historic experience away from the National Mall crowds.

 

  • 2 miles to The White House and President’s Park
  • 2.5 miles to Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • 2.5 miles to Lincoln Memorial
  • 2.5 miles to Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
  • 5 miles to Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
2. The White House and President's Park

Visit the iconic home of the President of the United States and explore the surrounding park grounds. Located in the heart of D.C., it’s a must-see stop that connects visitors to the nation’s leadership and history.

  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 1 mile to National Archives Museum
  • 1.5 miles to United States Capitol
  • 1 mile to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
  • 2 miles to Old Stone House
3. Daughters of the American Revolution National Headquarters

Explore one of the largest genealogical libraries in the country and a museum dedicated to American history. Located near the White House, it offers a deeper connection to the people and stories behind the nation’s founding.

  • 0.5 miles to The White House and President’s Park
  • 1 mile to Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • 1 mile to Lincoln Memorial
  • 1.2 miles to Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
  • 4 miles to Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
4. Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Reflect at one of the nation’s most powerful memorials, honoring those who served in the Vietnam War. Its simple yet moving design makes it a meaningful stop along the National Mall.

  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 1.5 miles to Smithsonian Castle
  • 1.5 miles to National Archives Museum
  • 2 miles to United States Capitol
  • 2.5 miles to Old Stone House
5. Constitution Gardens

Enjoy a peaceful green space along the National Mall, featuring a serene lake and walking paths. It’s a great place to pause and reflect between visiting nearby memorials and monuments.

  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 1.5 miles to Smithsonian Castle
  • 1.5 miles to National Archives Museum
  • 2 miles to United States Capitol
  • 2.5 miles to Old Stone House
6. Lincoln Memorial

Stand before the towering statue of Abraham Lincoln at one of the most iconic landmarks in the country. With sweeping views of the National Mall, it’s a powerful and unforgettable experience.

  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 1.5 miles to Smithsonian Castle
  • 1.5 miles to National Archives Museum
  • 2 miles to United States Capitol
  • 2.5 miles to Old Stone House
7. Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

Honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at this striking memorial along the Tidal Basin. The site offers both inspiration and reflection in a powerful setting.

  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 1.5 miles to Smithsonian Castle
  • 1.5 miles to National Archives Museum
  • 2 miles to United States Capitol
  • 2.5 miles to Old Stone House
8. Washington Monument

Rising above the National Mall, the Washington Monument offers panoramic views of the city. It’s a central landmark and a natural starting point for exploring nearby memorials and museums.

  • 0.5 miles to Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
  • 1 mile to National Archives Museum
  • 1 mile to The White House and President’s Park
  • 2 miles to United States Capitol
  • 1.5 miles to Smithsonian Castle
9. Thomas Jefferson Memorial

Set along the Tidal Basin, this elegant memorial honors Thomas Jefferson and offers beautiful views, especially during cherry blossom season.

  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 1.5 miles to Smithsonian Castle
  • 1.5 miles to National Archives Museum
  • 2 miles to United States Capitol
  • 2.5 miles to Old Stone House
10. Smithsonian Castle

Serving as the Smithsonian’s visitor center, this historic building is the perfect starting point for exploring the National Mall. Learn about exhibitions and orient yourself before diving into nearby museums.

  • 0.5 miles to Washington Monument
  • 1 mile to The White House and President’s Park
  • 1.5 miles to Lincoln Memorial
  • 1.5 miles to Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • 4 miles to Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
11. Library of Congress

Discover one of the most beautiful buildings in Washington, D.C., home to the largest library in the world. Its architecture and collections make it a must-see cultural stop.

  • 0.5 miles to United States Capitol
  • 1 mile to National Archives Museum
  • 1.5 miles to The White House and President’s Park
  • 2 miles to Washington Monument
  • 5 miles to Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
12. United States Capitol

Stand at the heart of American democracy and explore the historic grounds of the U.S. Capitol. It’s a powerful and essential stop when visiting Washington, D.C.

  • 0.5 miles to Library of Congress
  • 1 mile to National Archives Museum
  • 1.5 miles to The White House and President’s Park
  • 2 miles to Washington Monument
  • 5 miles to Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
13. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

From dinosaur fossils to the Hope Diamond, this world-renowned museum offers something for everyone. Located on the National Mall, it’s an easy and engaging stop for all ages.

  • 0.5 miles to Washington Monument
  • 1 mile to The White House and President’s Park
  • 1.5 miles to Lincoln Memorial
  • 1.5 miles to Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • 4 miles to Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
14. National Archives Museum

See the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights up close. This iconic museum offers a powerful connection to the founding documents that shaped the nation.

  • 1 mile to The White House and President’s Park
  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 1.5 miles to Lincoln Memorial
  • 1.5 miles to Vietnam Veterans Memorial
  • 4 miles to Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
15. Ford's Theatre National Historic Site

Step into the historic theatre where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. Through exhibits and preserved spaces, this site offers a powerful look into a pivotal moment in American history.

  • 1 mile to The White House and President’s Park
  • 1 mile to National Archives Museum
  • 1.5 miles to United States Capitol
  • 1 mile to Washington Monument
  • 2 miles to Smithsonian Castle
16. Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens

Explore a hidden oasis of water lilies and lotus flowers just outside the city center. This unique national park site offers a peaceful nature escape that feels worlds away from the busy National Mall.

  • 5 miles to United States Capitol
  • 5 miles to Library of Congress
  • 4 miles to National Archives Museum
  • 4 miles to Washington Monument
  • 5 miles to The White House and President’s Park

America's 250th & National Park Events

Lotus and Water Lily Festival

July 24th – July 26th

Celebrate one of Washington, D.C.’s most unique summer traditions at the annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. This free three-day festival transforms the park’s historic ponds into a vibrant showcase of lotus flowers and water lilies. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, live music, art, wellness activities like yoga and meditation, and family-friendly programming.

1776 at Ford's Theatre

Through May 16, 2026

Set inside the historic Ford’s Theatre, this special presentation of the Tony Award–winning musical 1776 brings the story of the Declaration of Independence to life on the very stage where history was forever changed. Through powerful performances and memorable music, the production captures the debates, tensions, and personalities behind America’s founding.

DC250 Events

Join Washington, DC 250 for a series of incredible events to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. From Celebrating 250 Years at the
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center to Celebrating American Art at the
National Gallery of Art there’s something for everyone.

Revolution in their Words

March 27, 2026 – March 27, 2027

The Daughters of the American Revolution Museum’s newest exhibition, Revolution in Their Words, commemorates America’s 250th anniversary by exploring the nation’s founding through personal stories and firsthand accounts. Featuring artifacts and manuscripts from the NSDAR’s collection, along with items on loan from other institutions, the exhibit highlights diverse perspectives from the years leading up to, during, and following the Revolutionary War.

America's 250th & National Park Events

Lotus and Water Lily Festival

July 24th – July 26th

Celebrate one of Washington, D.C.’s most unique summer traditions at the annual Lotus and Water Lily Festival at Kenilworth Park and Aquatic Gardens. This free three-day festival transforms the park’s historic ponds into a vibrant showcase of lotus flowers and water lilies. Visitors can enjoy cultural performances, live music, art, wellness activities like yoga and meditation, and family-friendly programming.

1776 at Ford's Theatre

Through May 16, 2026

Set inside the historic Ford’s Theatre, this special presentation of the Tony Award–winning musical 1776 brings the story of the Declaration of Independence to life on the very stage where history was forever changed. Through powerful performances and memorable music, the production captures the debates, tensions, and personalities behind America’s founding.

DC250 Events

Join Washington, DC 250 for a series of incredible events to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. From Celebrating 250 Years at the
U.S. Capitol Visitor Center to Celebrating American Art at the
National Gallery of Art there’s something for everyone.

Revolution in their Words

March 27, 2026 – March 27, 2027

The Daughters of the American Revolution Museum’s newest exhibition, Revolution in Their Words, commemorates America’s 250th anniversary by exploring the nation’s founding through personal stories and firsthand accounts. Featuring artifacts and manuscripts from the NSDAR’s collection, along with items on loan from other institutions, the exhibit highlights diverse perspectives from the years leading up to, during, and following the Revolutionary War.

Get Stamped! With Passport To Your National Parks®

Discover all of the National Park Service units in or near Philadelphia where you can get your Passport book stamped with classic cancellations and America250 stamps.

Visit an America’s National Parks™ Store

Find unique Publications, Souvenirs, and Educational Keepsakes to have an instant memory of your trip. Don’t forget to sign up to our email list to instantly get a coupon for 15% off at our park stores. The best part is 100% of proceeds from every purchase support events and educational experiences at national parks.

Shop America’s National Parks™ Online

Gear up for your trip with exclusive products from ShopANP.org, where your purchase supports the parks. Use the Passport To The American Revolution to track your visits to American Revolution sites and collect official America250™ cancellation stickers. Show up with exclusive America250™ apparel and gear so you’re ready for the celebrations!