cruise on potomac river washington dc

Sightseeing and Dining Cruises

City cruises.

City Cruises (formerly known as Hornblower Cruises & Events) offers water experiences beyond compare. Choose from a variety of cruises including: dinner cruises, brunch cruises, lunch cruises, cocktail cruises, sightseeing cruises, and holiday cruises. All of the vessels are conveniently docked at The Wharf, giving you the perfect launch point to explore the nation’s capital from the water.

Odyssey Savor delicious entrees and desserts as this glass-enclosed vessel drifts by the sights—accompanied by a relaxing atmosphere and live music.

Spirit of Washington Cruises A unique mix of dining, entertainment, and views, Spirit of Washington offers offers lunch, dinner, and holiday cruises, plus a variety of themed cruises.

Elite Private Yachts Host your own event or plan an unforgettable jaunt on the Potomac by chartering one of our two private yachts. Our sleek vessels are the perfect backdrop for weddings and other special occasions.

Water Taxi   Come to The Wharf’s Transit Pier to catch a ride on the Water Taxi to Georgetown in DC, Old Town Alexandria in Virginia, or National Harbor in Maryland—and enjoy the scenic views of the nation’s capital from the Potomac. Sightseeing Cruises See the famous monuments of Washington, DC from an entirely new perspective on this narrated sightseeing cruise. You’ll travel along the Potomac River while taking in breathtaking views of the Washington monuments and famous landmarks.

Sightseeing cruises depart from Transit Pier (970 Wharf St SW). Dining cruises (all others) depart from Pier 4 ( 580 Water St SW ).

Learn about Getting to The Wharf , including metro and parking directions.

Get Your Fill at The Wharf

Fresh seafood is a given on the waterfront. But The Wharf offers more, including a wide selection of distinctive choices for food, drinks, and entertainment while you eat. Watch the chefs prepare your meal. Listen to music. Or just people-watch while you savor the flavors of The Wharf.

Do It All on the Waterfront

Whether you like to be on the Potomac or prefer the sparkling views from land, The Wharf offers ample things to do and ways to enjoy the water. Dine in one of our fabulous restaurants. Browse our shops. Or join us during one of our festivals. Take a look at our upcoming events to plan your next visit.

Tour Details

Sightseeing Cruise Admission

Discover the Most Spectacular Views of Washington, DC from the Potomac River. 

Cruises are approximately 45 minutes with historical narration. Refreshments, snacks and Restrooms on board.

Sunset Sightseeing Cruise 

Sunset Cruise with the Most Spectacular Views of Washington, DC from the Potomac River.  Cruises are approximately 45 minutes with historical narration.  Don't forget to see your bartender for an ice cold drink!

DC Monuments by Moonlight Cruise

Our DC Monuments by Moonlight Cruise is a great way to take in the amazing views of the illuminated iconic monuments of Washington, DC from the Potomac River! Cruises are approximately 45 minutes. Refreshments, snacks and Restrooms on board.

Cherry Blossom Cruise

This cruise offers the same narration and sights as our Sightseeing Cruise with views of the Cherry Blossoms. Quality of views can change depending on how the temperatures play out in the lead-up to the bloom. Cruises are approximately 45 minutes. 

Daily Tour Details

Discover the Most Spectacular Views of Washington, DC from the Potomac River!  

Cruises are approximately 45 minutes with historical narration. 

Enjoy the Refreshment Bar (additional charge): Spirits, Beer & Wine, Sodas, and Snacks. 

Restrooms on-board.

​ ​ ​ Hours of Operation:  ​

Mid-March through Mid-April:

Mid-April through May:

7pm (Sunset Cruise)

May through Mid-August:

8pm (Sunset Cruise)

Mid-August through September: ​

8pm (DC Monuments by Moonlight Cruise)

October: 

6pm (Sunset Cruise)

November through Mid-March: (Closing and Opening Date Dependent on weather)

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON

Disclaimer:

Tickets are Non-Refundable. If you are unable to use your ticket on the date/time you purchased due to certain circumstances, you may have the option to use your ticket on another date/time depending on availability.

Sites Seen:  

Kennedy Center, Key Bridge, Memorial Bridge, Roosevelt Island, Washington Monument, LBJ Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, US Capitol, The Watergate, Lincoln Memorial, Maritime Memorial and the Custis-Lee Mansion (Arlington House). During the Cherry Blossom season, you'll be able to see the blooms from the river.

Sightseeing Guide

Tour Departure Location

Washington Harbour Georgetown

3050 K Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20007

End of 31st St across from Fiola Mare on the dock

Home of Nightingales on the Potomac River

THE CRAB BOAT - WASHINGTON D.C.

3 hour private charter.

Set sail for 3 hours down the Potomac River and enjoy the beautiful view of the monuments and memorials of your Nation's capitol. 

ALL YOU CAN EAT

(Steamed Shrimp available at extra cost)

& ALL YOU CAN DRINK

(Cocktails available at extra cost)

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Washington DC Sightseeing Cruises

Michael Lee / Getty Images

Washington, DC sightseeing cruises are a nice way to relax and capture great photographs of the nation’s capital along the Potomac River.  These boat tours are most fun during the warmer months of the year when you can get out on the deck to see panoramic views of some of the region’s most popular landmarks, such as the Kennedy Center , the Washington Monument, the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Navy Yard, and more. A variety of types of cruises are available and depart from Georgetown, the Southwest Waterfront , ​ Alexandria , Mount Vernon  and National Harbor .

Themed cruises and special promotions are available seasonally for Valentine’s Day, Cherry Blossom season, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, 4 th of July, New Year’s Eve and more. 

Riverboat Rides on the Potomac

Riverboat cruises are the most affordable excursions on the Potomac River and travel past some of the Washington DC area’s most famous landmarks. Cruises run several times a day, weather permitting.

Capitol River Cruises - Departing from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, the cruise company offers 45-minute narrated boat rides as well as private charters and crab feast tours.

DC Cruises - Departing from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, the cruises include Sunset/Happy Hour Tours, Monuments By Moonlight, DJ Nights, and special events like crab feasts, fall foliage cruises, and cherry blossom tours. Cruises run rain or shine. This company provides water taxi service between Georgetown and the National Mall and to Nationals Park throughout the baseball season.

Potomac Riverboat Company - Based in Alexandria, VA, the tour company has a fleet of unique boats including the authentic split sternwheeler The Cherry Blossom, the Admiral Tilp, The Matthew Hayes, the Miss Christin, and the Miss Mallory. Excursions include The Washington Monuments Cruise, Alexandria Seaport Cruise, Mount Vernon Cruise, Pirates Cruise, and Canine Cruise. This company also provides water taxi service between Alexandria, VA, the National Mall, and National Harbor, MD. Potomac Riverboat Company operates the Baseball Boat to provide transportation from Alexandria to Nationals Park during the baseball season.

Lunch and Dinner Cruises in Washington, DC

Lunch and dinner cruises include a gourmet meal and live entertainment aboard a luxury vessel. Passengers enjoy beautiful views of Washington, DC’s monuments and famous landmarks. Cruises depart from the Gangplank Marina at 6th and Water Streets or from National Harbor in Oxon Hill, Maryland. Reservations are recommended. These two- or three-hour cruises provide popular venues for parties and corporate events. 

Odyssey Cruises - The glass-enclosed ship offers panoramic views and the most upscale experience of the region’s cruises. Dinners are a three-course seated meal (buffet for larger groups). A live band performs. Larger groups can reserve a private deck. The cruise departs from Southwest DC and can sail from National Harbor for an additional fee.  

Spirit Cruises - The cruise includes a buffet, DJ, dancing, and monumental views. Larger groups can reserve a private deck. The Spirit of Washington departs from Southwest DC and can sail from National Harbor for an additional fee. The Spirit of Mount Vernon provides round-trip transportation with a discounted admission to Mount Vernon. Boxed lunch is available for purchase. Private charter is also available (including buffet). 

DC Cruises - Crab Feasts - These excursions for groups of 25-75 people include bushels of crabs and shrimp picked up fresh at the seafood wharf just before the cruise. The ship departs from Georgetown’s Washington Harbour. Large groups may depart from SW Washington DC, Alexandria, and National Harbor for an extra charge. Public crab cruises are also available.

Schooner Sailing on the Potomac River

DC Sail -  Departing from the Gangplank Marina in SW Washington DC, DC Sail provides sailing opportunities on its 65-foot schooner, the American Spirit, including Cherry Blossom Cruises, sunset sails, Boating & Baseball Excursions, and July 4 th Fireworks Cruises. DC Sail also provides educational, recreational, and competitive sailing programs for all ages. As a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, DC Sail relies upon the proceeds from American Spirit programming to help support their youth scholarship program for at-risk children in the DC area.

Private Yacht Charters in Washington DC

A variety of private charter cruises are available in Washington, DC. You can customize your own excursion for a private party, wedding, or corporate event.

Elite Private Yachts - Charters for groups of 25 to 100 depart from Washington DC and National Harbor. The Capital Elite and the National Elite are luxury yachts that can accommodate large groups.

Potomac Riverboat Company - Based in Alexandria, VA, the tour company has a fleet of unique boats that are available for private charter: The Cherry Blossom, the Admiral Tilp, The Matthew Hayes, the Miss Christin, and the Miss Mallory.

American Spirit - The National Maritime Heritage Foundation offers sailboat charters along the Potomac and Anacostia Rivers. Boats depart from the Gangplank Marina in SW Washington, DC.

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• United States
• Washington, D.C. Area
• District of Columbia
• Southwest Waterfront

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C.

• Good for special occasions
• Great for scenic views

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Additional information

• Dining style Casual Elegant
• Price $50 and over
• Cuisines Dinner Cruise, American
• Hours of operation Brunch: Saturday & Sunday: 10:45am - 1:30pm Lunch: Monday - Friday: 11:15am - 2:00pm Dinner: Monday - Thursday: 6:00pm - 10:00pm Friday & Saturday: 7:00pm - 11:00pm Sunday: 5:00pm - 8:30pm
• Phone number (866) 306-2469
• Website http://www.odysseycruises.com/washington-dc
• Payment options AMEX, Discover, Mastercard, Visa
• Dress code Smart Casual
• Private party facilities Nothing compares to the dynamic, unique experience of a group event on the water. Delicious food and drinks, top entertainment and stunning views combine for an experience your guests won’t forget. From business meetings to special occasion celebrations, give your event a whole new energy.
• Private party contact Professional Event Planner: (855) 398-7088
• Location 600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024
• Neighborhood Southwest Waterfront
• Cross street 6th Street SW
• Parking details For Odyssey parking, turn into the Gangplank Marina Lot off of Water Street. Please allow extra time to park as there is limited parking space available at Gangplank Marina. A number of nearby lots and meters offer additional convenient parking within walking distance. Additional parking charges at these areas may apply.
• Public transit From the Metro: Exit the Waterfront SEU Station. Turn Right on M ST. which turns into Maine Ave. Turn Left onto 6th. Odyssey is located at Gangplank Marina, 6th and Water Street.
• Entertainment Cruises feature our band, Chane Link, playing softer standards on our Brunch and Lunch cruises and throughout the earlier part of our Dinner cruises. During the later part of our Dinner cruises, expect a shift to more high-energy dance music. No matter when you cruise, there is something for everyone to enjoy, from Motown to disco, from 80"s ballads to swing, and from Latin to jazz standards.
• Additional Banquet, Beer, Dancing, Entertainment, Full Bar, Happy Hour, Late Night, Patio/Outdoor Dining, Private Room, View, Weekend Brunch, Wheelchair Access, Wine

Shrimp Cocktail

Sriracha Cocktail Sauce. Available for an additional price

Seafood Tower

Maine Lobster | Alaskan King Crab | Jumbo Shrimp | Bay Scallop Ceviche | Sriracha Cocktail Sauce | Parsley Aioli. Avaialable for an additional price

First Course

Wedge salad.

Applewood Smoked Bacon | Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Chives & Italian Parsley | Buttermilk Ranch Dressing

Lobster Soup

Brioche Croutons | Chives

Smoked Moulard Duck Breast

Cranberry, Cherry & Caramelized Shallot Compote | Pickled Cornichons & Pearl Onions

Jumbo Lump Crab Cakes

Sweet Corn, Red Bell Pepper & Thyme Succotash | Cajun Cream Sauce

Oven Baked Atlantic Salmon Filet

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Citrus Dill Sauce

Maple & Mustard Glazed Chicken Breast

Fingerling Potatoes & Chives | Haricot Verts | Dijon Mustard Cream Sauce

Braised Beef Short Rib

Idaho Potato & Horseradish Mash | Baby Carrots | Pearl Onions & English Peas | Cabernet Sauvignon Sauce

Greek Zucchini Fritters

Lemon Orzo with Red Onions & Sun-Dried Tomatoes | Spring Onion & Cucumber Tzatziki

Filet Mignon & Lobster Tail

Truffle Potatoes | Glazed Baby Carrots | Herb Butter. Available for an additional price

Duo of Sorbet

Seasonal Sorbet | Fresh Fruit

Granny Smith Apple Parfait

Cinnamon Spiced Apples | Almond & Oat Crumble | Candied Chili Bacon

Salted Caramel Cake

Dark Chocolate Ganache | Raspberry Sauce

Odyssey Signature Warm Butter Cake

Vanilla Bean Ice Cream | Blackberry Sauce

What 10 people are saying

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• 3.8 Service
• 3.9 Ambience

Noise • Moderate

Dined on September 14, 2018

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How is Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. restaurant rated?

Odyssey Cruises Washington D.C. is rated 4 stars by 10 OpenTable diners.

600 Water Street Southwest, Washington, DC 20024

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Private Sight-Seeing Boat Cruises of Washington D.C.

Boat tours starting at $349, cruise with us on the potomac.

Our private boat cruises are a refreshing view of the nation’s capital! See the monuments and all the sights of the city with the sun in your face and the wind in your hair. Our private cruises are a great mixture of city scape and nature. We start on the Washington Channel at DC’s Wharf Marina and move up to the northern Potomac for a sight of numerous monuments as well as the Washington Harbor. What makes our private cruises special is that we show you all of the things in between, much of it unnoticed even for many long time residents. Our Private Cruises are full of great local stories and fun conversation!

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Why Choose Us?

Amazing captains.

What sets Reflections DC apart is our extensive experience and expertise. Our captains excel in narrating tours, seamlessly weaving historical facts with captivating stories, making every journey a memorable and educational experience. Their expertise and engaging delivery ensure that passengers are not just sightseeing but fully immersed in the rich narratives of the waterways.

Our captains are also fully licensed by the United States Coast Guard to operate commercially, ensuring top-notch safety standards.  

100% Unique

The charm of Reflections DC’s sightseeing cruises is uniquely different from other options in two distinct ways. Firstly, our narrated tours unfold with the same enchanting storytelling style as a classic Italian gondola cruise, where every anecdote and historical tidbit brings the journey to life. Secondly, our intimate boats ensure a cozy and personalized experience, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the sights and sounds of Washington DC’s iconic landmarks. With Reflections DC, each cruise is a captivating blend of narrative elegance and intimate luxury, promising a memorable adventure on the Potomac River.

Your Cruise, Your Way

At Reflections DC, we strive to  create a personalized and comfortable journey just for you. Your tour with us is all about catering to your preferences and ensuring you feel completely at ease throughout your adventure. 

Client Testimonials

Pirate Ship Cruise

Quick Details

• Users Ages: 21+
• Hour Glass Duration: 2 hours

Join us on a Pirate Ship Cruise on the Potomac River !

Prepare to embark on our 21+ party cruise aboard the Boomerang Pirate Ship, where even the most landlocked souls will find their sea legs in no time!  Embrace the pirate spirit by swaggering between the starboard and portside, mingling with your fellow passengers, and having an absolute blast!  Cruise beneath the sun, gaze at the sunset, or dance under the moonlight, grog in hand.

While we delight in seeing our spirited guests come adorned in pirate attire, please know that dressing like a pirate is not a requirement. Your presence and enthusiasm are all that’s needed to make this journey unforgettable.

With your all-inclusive ticket, you’ll enjoy:

• A 2-hour cruise
• A premium open bar featuring our lively bartenders mixing a variety of delicious cocktails, along with an array of liquor options, beer, wine, High Noon seltzers, filtered water, sodas, juices, and pre-packaged snacks.
• A professional sound system boasting an extensive library of music to set the perfect mood for your voyage.
• The magnificent cityscape of Washington, D.C. from the vantage points of our two open-air decks.

Please note that this is an all-inclusive ticket, ensuring a hassle-free experience with no cash or credit card transactions during the cruise since everything is taken care of. The opportunity to show your appreciation to our bartenders will be available through cash (exact change only), Venmo, or CashApp. Thank you for choosing Boomerang Cruises!

Related Cruises

• MOST POPULAR!
• Hour Glass 2 hours

Boomerang Yacht Cruise

Enjoy a 21+ cruise aboard the Boomerang Party Yacht which includes premium open bar, water, sodas, pre-packaged snacks, fun music, and amazing DC views.

• Hour Glass 1 hour
• Users All ages

Family Fun Treasure Hunt Cruise

Ahoy there, young pirates! Get ready to embark on our interactive cruise, offering endless excitement and the perfect adventure for kids of all ages!

Meet the only line that cruises from Washington, DC. Here’s where it’ll take you

Picture cruises from Washington, D.C., and you'll likely envision a behemoth like Royal Caribbean 's Icon of the Seas clogging up the Potomac River. Fortunately, that's not the case with the only ship to sail voyages from the U.S. capital.

American Cruise Lines — the largest river cruise line in the U.S., which operates small-ship voyages exclusively on U.S. rivers and coasts — has positioned two of its vessels, fittingly named American Constitution and American Glory, at The Wharf along D.C.'s southeast waterfront.

As the first ships in more than 60 years to sail round trip from that location, they take passengers along the Potomac and York rivers and into the Chesapeake Bay. Here's a rundown of when the cruises depart, how much they cost and where you'll stop along the way.

For more cruise guides, news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

When you can cruise from Washington, DC

These voyages, dubbed American Revolution itineraries, operate in the spring and fall, with the first voyage of 2024 setting sail on March 26, just in time for passengers to enjoy the area's famed cherry blossoms .

Sailings on both 100-passenger American Glory and 170-passenger ship American Constitution run on a regular 10-night rotation through early June and pick up again from early October to early November.

Where you can cruise from Washington, DC

If you're a history buff, you'll salivate over the places this itinerary will visit.

Your trip will begin with a pre-cruise package that includes a stay at the Four Seasons in Washington, D.C., where you can tour the Capitol Building and spend time at the Smithsonian museums.

After departing the capital, you'll stop in Annapolis, Maryland, home of the Naval Academy and a charming downtown area. Follow that up with highlights in Norfolk, Williamsburg and Yorktown, Virginia, where the Revolutionary War came to an end.

Finish off the trip with a call on Alexandria, Virginia, where you can spend a day exploring the historic old town, and a visit to Mount Vernon, the former home of George Washington.

How much are cruises from Washington, DC?

Prices start from $5,275 per person for a cabin with a window as part of a promotion the line is running, which includes fare discounts and free round-trip airfare if you're not someone who lives within driving distance of The Wharf. You can check more prices on the American Cruise Lines website .

Other cruise ports to consider

If you'd prefer a sailing on a larger oceangoing ship, the closest big-ship embarkation ports within a reasonable driving distance are Baltimore and Bayonne, New Jersey.

A variety of ships depart from those locations, including Carnival Cruise Line 's Carnival Legend and Carnival Pride and Royal Caribbean's Vision of the Seas from Baltimore. Liberty of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Symphony of the Seas, as well as Celebrity Cruises ' Celebrity Eclipse, depart from Bayonne.

Norfolk, Virginia, is also a drive-to port for the D.C. area, but no large ships are scheduled to depart from there in 2024. Look for cruises on Carnival Sunshine in 2025.

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17 Best Things To Do In Washington DC At Night

T here are many great things to do in Washington DC at night. From admiring the beautifully lit historic monuments at the National Mall to taking a fun dinner cruise down the Potomac River, there is something for everyone in Washington DC.

Since I live next door to Washington DC in Maryland, my family and I head over to Washington DC quite often. There is just so much to do in Washington DC, even at night time.

However, the large number of options of things to do in DC can make planning a trip seem a bit overwhelming. Therefore, I have included a list below of the best 17 family-friendly activities for Washington DC at night.

Things To Do In Washington DC At Night

There are so many interesting things to do in Washington DC. As America’s capital, it is full of fantastic museums, historic monuments, beautiful sights, which is in definitely one of the pros of living in Washington, DC .

For some of the top things to do, check out this list of the 17 best family-friendly things to do in Washington DC at night.

17 Best Family-Friendly Washington DC at Night

1. take the old town trolley monuments by night tour.

One of the best things to do in Washington DC at night is to take a ride on a fun, state-of-the-art Trolley with Old Town Trolley Tours. Their nighttime tour, Monuments by Moonlight, is an incredible tour that provides the opportunity to view all of the best historical sights in Washington DC at night. 

Admire the lit-up monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Two Jima Marines Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and more all while your guide tells you more about the historical significance and interesting stories about Washington DC.

This tour is a perfect way to see Washington DC at night and is a great family-friendly option.

Tours last for two and a half hours and depart daily at 6:30 pm in the winter (November-March) and at 7:30 pm in the summer (March-November). You can board the tour at Union Station or at The Washington Welcome Center.

Adult tickets are $84.95 and tickets for children between ages 4-12 are $38.95, and those under age 4 are free.

2. Experience a Night at the Museum with Smithsonian Nighttime Adventures

Smithsonian nighttime adventure is a special event designed just for kids! During this Night at the Museum-themed event, kids will have the opportunity to join fellow adventurers in exploring one of the world’s most popular museums, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. 

This event is aimed at learning more about Earth’s past, discovering the ocean’s aquatic wonders, blasting off to the moon, visiting pollinators, and seeing mysterious mammals.

Fun-filled activities include participating in games, challenges, creating fun arts and crafts, and more.

The Smithsonian Nighttime Adventures events are run on select days which are listed on the museum website. The event is for kids between the ages of 8-14 years old, and each group of up to 5 kids must have at least one adult chaperone.

The event hours are from 7 pm – 11 pm, and tickets cost $85 per person. 

3. Ride Around on a Washington DC Sights at Night Bike Tour

Washington DC is an exciting place to visit at night, with all of its monuments lit up. A bike tour is a perfect way to experience the National Mall of Washington DC at night.

This is a great option for active families, that are looking to get some good exercise while seeing all of the sights in DC.

This 3-hour bike tour takes you on a guided 4-mile tour to show you the DC highlights such as the White House, the Vietnam War Memorial, Jefferson, Lincoln, and WWII memorials, and more.

The tour includes a bike rental, helmet, reflective safety vest, and a guide. Tours run daily, starting at 6:30 pm. Adult tickets are $54 and children’s tickets are $49.

4. Watch the Sunset from the Washington Monument

One of the best free things to do in Washington DC at night is to watch the beautiful sunset. One of the best places in Washington DC to get unique sunset views is from the Washington Monument.

Seeing the sunset behind the tall, impressive monument is an incredible experience, and makes for some great photos from DC.

5. Ride the Capital Wheel

Enjoy breathtaking views over Washington DC as you ride the Capital Wheel. This popular Ferris wheel takes you up to 180 feet above the Potomac River, which will give you the most incredible views of Washington DC.

This is a fun-filled and exciting evening activity that is perfect for families.

Due to its climate-controlled gondolas, the Capital Wheel is open year-round and provides a comfortable, yet exhilarating Ferris wheel ride. Hours of operation are Monday through Thursday from 4 pm to 10 pm, and Friday through Sunday from 10 am to 10 pm.

Adult admission is $15, and children’s admission is $11.25.

6. Take an Evening Electric Cart Tour

Taking an Electric Cart Tour is the perfect way to sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights while your guide explains more about the important Washington DC monuments and tells fascinating stories.

The electric cart is a 7-person, sustainable electric vehicle, making it the perfect way to explore Washington DC at night in a small group.

The 2-hour Moonlight Electric Cart Tour will take you to the highlights of Washington DC, such as Capitol Hill, the White House, and other famous DC landmarks like the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and WWII, Korean, and Vietnam War memorials.

Tours run daily from 8 pm and start from the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial. Adult and children’s tickets are both $85.

7. Catch a Game at Nationals Park

Nationals Park is the baseball field that is home to the Major League Baseball team in DC, the Washington Nationals. Enjoy a true American pastime in Washington DC by cheering on the baseball team and enjoying a delicious hot dog. Evening games happen throughout the season and are a great way to enjoy DC at night. 

There are also a variety of other events, such as concerts that are held throughout the year at Nationals Park. For more information on upcoming events and home games, make sure to check out their website.

8. Experience the Sights on a Moonlight Tour of Washington DC

If you are looking for a tour that will take you to the famous monuments, but also allows you to stop and admire the sights, this Moonlight Washington DC Tour is a perfect choice.

This 3-hour tour includes pick up and drop off from nearby Washinton DC hotels and then will take you on a 3-hour, guided tour to all the major sites.

One of the best parts about doing an evening tour is that the monuments and sights are much less crowded at night compared to during the daytime. It is also a unique and fun experience to see Washington DC lit up at night.

This tour will take you to places like the US Capitol Building, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, the Pentagon, Arlington Cemetery, and the National Archives. 

This is a perfect option for families with older children that are interested in seeing Washington DC and learning more about the sights. Tours run daily from 7:30 pm. Adult tickets are $62 and children’s tickets are $39.

9. Watch an Outdoor Movie at Sunset Cinema

If you are visiting Washington DC in the summer months, head over to the Transit Pier at The Wharf on Thursday nights to enjoy some delicious popcorn and watch a movie at sunset. 

From Memorial Day to Labor Day, there is a family-friendly movie shown every Thursday at 7:30 pm. Some of the movies shown include Jungle Cruise, Mamma Mia, Forest Gump, A Dogs Purpose, and more.

It is a great way to relax after spending the day in Washington DC, and the best part is that admission is completely free. There are also several food options nearby, making it a great spot to spend a summer evening.

10. Take a Dinner Cruise

Enjoy an evening out on the Potomac River aboard a dinner cruise. A dinner cruise will take you down the picturesque river past sites like the Washington Monument, National Harbor, Old Town Alexandria, and other iconic D.C. sights.

Enjoy a delicious dinner and music, which make for the perfect evening for the whole family.

11. Admire the Holiday Lights at the National Zoo

If you are visiting during the holiday season, make sure to check out the ZooLights Event at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo. This family-friendly event includes lots of beautiful light displays that transform the zoo into a winter wonderland.

There is plenty of live music, hot chocolate, and sweet treats to be enjoyed at this magical holiday event.

The ZooLights event runs every weekend from the end of November through the end of December from 5 pm-9 pm. Admission to the event is free, but you need to reserve your spot online ahead of time. There is also a $30 parking fee.

12. Check Out the Marine Corps Sunset Parade

Every Tuesday evening during the summer, the Marine Corps hosts a sunset parade at the National Mall at 7 pm. The parade has been held every summer since 1956 and includes marching to musical numbers. It is an interesting and free experience to go to in Washington DC at night with kids.

13. Solve Puzzles at an Escape Room

Escape rooms are a fun, family-friendly activity that involves solving a series of puzzles to escape the room. There are many different themes of escape rooms, as well as different levels, from beginner to expert.

This type of activity is perfect for older kids and families, as you have to work together to solve the mystery within 60 minutes.

There are several Escape Room locations in Maryland and the Washington DC area, but some highly rated ones to check out include The Escape Game DC, Beat the Bomb DC, and Escape the Room DC.

14. Immerse in the Art at the ARTECHOUSE DC

The ARTECHOUSE is a unique, immersive art experience. The experience is for 1 hour and will guide you through illuminated rooms that have various themes. This is a cool experience, especially for art enthusiasts. It is also one of our top things to do when you only have 4 days to spend in DC.

The ARTECHOUSE DC is open daily from 10 am until 10 pm. Admission is $25 for adults, $17 for children ages 4-17, and free for children under the age of 4.

15. Enjoy Dinner along the Georgetown Waterfront

The Georgetown Waterfront is located on the Potomac River and is the perfect place to enjoy a nice dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants. In the summer, it is also a great place to take an evening walk, and enjoy some delicious ice cream or other sweet treats!

16. See a Show at the Historic Ford Theatre

Ford’s Theatre is a historically significant site in Washington DC. The theatre reopened in 1968 and celebrates the life of Abraham Lincoln. Today, you can go on a historical tour of the theatre, or watch one of the plays that are held throughout the year.

17. Experience the Circus at UniverSoul Circus

UniverSoul Circus is an exciting circus-themed show. The show contains a variety of impressive acrobatic performances that are sure to wow you. Shows take place Thursday through Sunday with both daytime and evening performances.

Tickets are $27 for both children and adults.

FAQs on Things to Do in DC at Night

What do people do at night in dc.

There are lots of fun things to do in DC at night. A few great ones include enjoying a bike tour at night, Dinner cruise, DC Monuments and Capitol Hill Tour by Electric Cart and a lot more.

Can you walk around DC at night?

Yes, you can walk around Washington D.C. at night. The city is generally safe for pedestrians, and many popular areas are well-lit and have a noticeable police presence, especially in the tourist and downtown areas.

However like everywhere else, stay safe and be aware of your surroundings.

Can you visit the Washington Monument at night?

No, you cannot visit the Washington Monument at night. The monument is open from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm daily, except for July 4 and December 25. The last tour begins at 4:30 pm.

Conclusion: The Best Things to Do in Washington DC at Night

Washington DC has so many things to do at night, including many kid-friendly activities. Kids will love riding the Capital Ferris Wheel or experiencing the Nighttime Adventures at the Smithsonian Museum.

Sports fans can catch a game at the Nationals Park while art enthusiasts can explore the immersive art exhibits of ARTECHOUSE DC.

There are also great family activities like watching an outdoor movie at sunset or solving puzzles in an escape room. Washington DC has so many activities to choose from that there will be something for everyone.

The post 17 Best Things To Do In Washington DC At Night appeared first on Deyewa .

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See planes over the Mall? Don’t fret, it’s aviation history in action.

Nearly 60 aircraft will fly at 1,000 feet on Saturday above one of the most protected airspaces in the country

Beginning at noon on Saturday, nearly 60 aircraft spanning the history of aviation will buzz over D.C.’s National Mall, a rare public parade of planes and helicopters streaking across the country’s most restricted airspace.

The flyover was organized by the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association to mark its 85th anniversary. The flight will include a wish list of aircraft for aviation nerds, from classic 1920s and 1930s planes, rare prototypes never put into mass production, and public service vehicles such as crop dusters and planes used to dump water on forest fires.

As the world’s main organization for general aviation, which includes all nonmilitary or commercial airline pilots, the AOPA is not only celebrating aviation history, but also a significant new rebound in membership over the past five years, according to Mark Baker, the organization’s president and the pilot leading Saturday’s flight.

The organization went from a peak of about 800,000 pilots in 1980 — many of them World War II, Vietnam War and Korean War veterans — down to as low as 570,000 members, according to Baker. Now, the organization includes about 750,000 pilots, many of whom are enthusiasts who picked up aviation as a passion project during the pandemic.

“People are way more interested in aviation now,” he said. “That has changed our base in the last five years dramatically.”

Saturday’s display required sign-offs and inspections from 11 different government agencies, including the Federal Aviation Administration, the Secret Service and Capitol Police. That kind of coordination is unique for a nonmilitary flyover, Baker said, because of security concerns over airborne attacks on national moments, which escalated after 9/11. Since then, the National Mall has been closed to any general aviation aircraft, according to the association.

The whole flight will lift off from Frederick Municipal Airport in Maryland. The aircraft will head south at 2,000 feet, drop down to 1,000 feet as they cruise over the Potomac River, then continue at 1,000 after hanging a left at the Mall. They will then take a right near the Smithsonian Institution Building at Independence Ave NW and L’Enfant Plaza SW before finishing the 88-mile run back at Frederick.

The idea was launched in January 2023 when AOPA leaders sat down to discuss how to celebrate the organization’s 85th birthday.

“I just raised my hand and I said, ‘Why don’t we do a general aviation flyover of the National Mall?’ ” recalled Mike Ginter, AOPA vice president and a former U.S. Navy pilot.

The leadership team loved the idea — but could it even be done, considering the heavy regulations?

Ginter believed they could pull it off. He had already helped run the Arsenal of Democracy , a flyover of World War II planes over the Mall in 2020 and 2015. He knew the agencies that needed to be brought on board to grant the appropriate waivers and credentials.

“All 11 had to say yes, and any one of 11 could say no,” Ginter explained. They started getting buy-in from members of Congress, particularly Rep. Sam Graves (R-Mo.), chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, and Rep. Rick Larsen (Wash.), the ranking Democrat on that committee.

“The first time we briefed the agencies on the idea, the reaction was, ‘Wow, that’s hard,’” Ginter said. “But as we worked with them and developed a working relationship with each of the 11 agencies, they started to see this was actually possible.”

Eventually, all 11 agencies signed off.

Developing a flight plan for dozens of aircraft with different engine types and speed capabilities also fell on Ginter.

“I worked ... from the foundational principle that it’s going to be safe and it’s going to be professional,” he said. “It’s going to be in accordance with everybody’s regulations and requirements.”

The team decided on using the flyover to tell the story of American aviation in 15 “chapters” representing specific design groups, including the 1930s “Golden Age” of plane design, public service aircraft and modern corporate aircraft.

Baker will be leading the first group from the “Golden Age” of aviation in his own 1944 Beech Staggerwing, an elegant plane that was popular with movie stars and oil magnates in the 1930s. During World War II, it was used by the military to ferry captains and admirals between war zones.

“It’s like the Stradivarius of aviation,” Baker said, referring to the famous violin design regarded as one of the world’s best-crafted musical instruments.

In March, he piloted one of four planes during a practice run on the Mall, a test that proved to the 11 agencies that it could be done and that left most of the government employees on-site excited for the main event Saturday, Baker said.

Baker hopes the flyover will not only appeal to aviation enthusiasts but also to folks who have always had a passing interest in flying.

“I was a little kid, and when you watch these air shows or see aviation or hear it, it’s inspiring,” he said. “Often I talk to people on the street and they say, ‘One of these days I want to learn to fly.’ This hopefully will put it into their heads: Why not now?”