Washington, D.C. has amazing activities that go way beyond the typical tourist spots. The city’s streets hide the Dupont Underground, a network of abandoned trolley tunnels turned into art spaces, just a mile from the White House. Our city holds a wealth of hidden gems, from the country’s oldest working fish market to a bonsai tree that made it through the Hiroshima bombing.
We love sharing unique things to do in D.C. The capital has something for everyone. You can throw axes at Kick Ax Throwing DC, glide across the ice at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, or check out the fresh exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum. This detailed guide will help you find the capital’s most exciting activities for you and your friends.
The city has so much more to show you. Hidden historic districts and creative workshops await, ready to reveal a different side of our nation’s capital that most visitors never see.
Hidden Gems in DC’s Historic Districts
A world of secret bars and historic treasures lies hidden under Georgetown’s cobblestone streets.
Secret speakeasies in Georgetown
The Alex, a cozy speakeasy nestled in The Graham Georgetown hotel, blends Victorian esthetics with modern craft cocktails. You’ll need a special code to enter this hidden gem that brings the authentic 1920s experience to life with:
- Farm-to-glass cocktails served in tiny bathtubs (a nod to prohibition-era bootleggers)
- Live jazz performances on select evenings
- Custom-crafted drinks in a newspaper-style menu
The Mirror on K Street ranks among DC’s top-rated speakeasies. The entrance sits behind a full-length mirror in what looks like a vacant space with a “For Rent” sign, creating that authentic prohibition-era feel.
Underground art galleries
The Dupont Underground has grown into an amazing 75,000-square-foot creative space right beneath the city streets. This space started as a trolley station but now hosts avant-garde exhibitions, performances, and cultural events. On top of that, it gives emerging artists a platform to showcase unconventional works that might not fit in traditional galleries.
Historic house museums after dark
Georgetown’s Tudor Place creates exceptional evening experiences through their Tudor Nights series. Visitors get exclusive access to rare artifacts while enjoying themed cocktails and hors d’oeuvres. The “Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow” exhibition features unique items including locks from George Washington’s head.
The Heurich House Museum, known as the Brewmaster’s Castle, celebrates its beer-making legacy with evening events. Their “History & Hops” series teams up with the US Botanical Garden to mix house tours with beer tastings and brewing history lectures. They even host launch parties for revival beers, including their historic “Maerzen” brew.
The O Museum in the Mansion offers a one-of-a-kind experience. This remarkable space contains more than 100 rooms and 70 secret doors that lead to themed areas packed with fine art and antiques. The museum welcomes visitors until 9 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, with themed tours highlighting its 19th-century architectural details and original stained glass windows.
Hands-on Cultural Workshops
Let’s take a closer look at DC’s creative side, where hands-on workshops give adults a chance to pursue their artistic and culinary passions.
Local cooking classes
DC Cooking School welcomes food enthusiasts with over 20 cooking classes in a variety of cuisines. Students can learn to make Indian favorites or discover Spanish paella’s secrets. Each class costs $150 per person. These sessions stand out because students work directly with ingredients while experienced chefs guide them through each step.
These classes welcome everyone, from complete beginners to seasoned home cooks. The school provides all ingredients and equipment, so students can focus on building their culinary skills. Food lovers interested in global flavors can learn authentic Persian cooking techniques and classic French recipes.
Pottery making sessions
DC’s pottery scene offers equally rewarding experiences. The Capitol Hill Arts Workshop features various ceramic courses, with their “Carving Custom Ceramic Stamps” sessions being particularly popular. These four-week workshops cost $180 and run on weekday evenings – perfect for after-work creativity.
Newcomers can start with workshops that teach basic wheel-throwing techniques. Students create at least two pieces and learn glazing techniques during these sessions. Advanced classes welcome experienced potters, offering supervised wheel time and hand-building opportunities.
Eastern Market Pottery features detailed eight-week programs. Students pay $315 for each class, which covers both wheel-throwing and hand-building techniques. The studio runs classes Monday through Thursday and Saturday, offering flexible scheduling.
The District Clay Center enhances pottery education with specialized workshops. Their “Carbon Trap Shino” sessions explore glazing techniques in depth. Students get hands-on practice and watch kiln firings in these half-day workshops, gaining complete understanding of the ceramic process.
Many studios complement their regular classes with private lessons and group sessions. The Smithsonian Associates’ Studio Arts program has helped artists grow for over 50 years. Professional artists lead small classroom settings that emphasize skill-building and creative exploration.
Unique Food Adventures
DC’s culinary scene delights adventurous food lovers with everything from street food to skyline dining.
Food market tours
Eastern Market, DC’s oldest running food market, has been the life-blood of local food culture over 200 years. Local vendors showcase their specialties from the Washington DC area. The Foods of Eastern Market tour connects visitors with local artisans who share their craft and provide authentic tastes of DC’s food heritage.
International cuisine crawls
Neighborhoods across DC showcase distinct culinary experiences from around the world. The Little Ethiopia Food Tour heads over to historic Shaw and 9th Street, which boasts the largest Ethiopian community outside Ethiopia.
DC’s international food scene has:
- Indian and Egyptian delicacies
- Middle Eastern street food specialties
- Authentic Italian cuisine
- Persian desserts
Many food tour tickets help support charitable causes. To cite an instance, some tours support Bread For The City by providing three meals to DC residents who need them.
Getting Around D.C.
Navigating Washington, D.C. is convenient with its extensive public transportation system, including the Metro, buses, and bike-share programs. For those traveling in groups, charter bus services provide a hassle-free way to explore the city comfortably.
Conclusion
D.C. offers much more than iconic monuments. Hidden districts, unique dining experiences, and immersive workshops reveal a side of the capital that many overlook. Whether a local or a visitor, these lesser-known activities provide new ways to explore and experience the city in a fresh, engaging manner. The city thrives on creativity, culture, and history, blending old and new in unexpected ways. From the underground art spaces to intimate dining experiences, every corner offers a chance to discover something special. Exploring beyond the usual attractions unveils a city rich in diversity, passion, and innovation. With so many untapped experiences waiting, there is always another layer of Washington, D.C. to uncover, making each visit memorable and unique.
FAQs
Q1: What are some lesser-known historic sites in D.C.?
Tudor Place and the Heurich House Museum provide unique glimpses into the city’s past, offering evening events that blend history with interactive experiences.
Q2: Where can I find hidden speakeasies in Washington, D.C.?
The Alex in Georgetown and The Mirror on K Street offer intimate atmospheres with craft cocktails and exclusive entry requirements.
Q3: Are there any underground art galleries in D.C.?
The Dupont Underground transforms abandoned trolley tunnels into a vibrant exhibition space, showcasing experimental and contemporary art.
Q4: What hands-on workshops are available for adults?
Visitors can explore cooking classes at DC Cooking School, pottery sessions at Capitol Hill Arts Workshop, and specialized ceramic programs at District Clay Center.
Q5: What food tours highlight the best of D.C.’s culinary scene?
The Foods of Eastern Market tour and the Little Ethiopia Food Tour introduce participants to diverse flavors, featuring local and international cuisine.
