Skip the crowds and standard tourist stops with our list of the best non-touristy things to do in DC. While exploring this incredible city’s wonderful museums and iconic landmarks is a must, if you want to discover the hidden gems, the local favorites, and things to do in DC besides monuments, this guide is for you.

Summary:

• What Makes These Things to Do in DC “Non-Touristy”?
• Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in DC
• Things to Do in DC Near New Construction Homes
• Conclusion

What Makes These Things to Do in DC “Non-Touristy”?

The attractions on this list aren’t the typical DC museums, monuments, or landmarks in every tourist guide. Instead, they're spots favored by locals but often bypassed by tourists. From bars and restaurants to quirky attractions, they offer a unique perspective on the nation's capital city, perfect for those craving something off the beaten path. Pack your sense of adventure because here are the best non-touristy things to do in Washington, DC!

Best Non-Touristy Things to Do in DC

Explore some lesser-known restaurants, shopping, bars, neighborhoods, and unique spots in DC, cherished by locals yet often overlooked by tourists.

Best Local-Favorite Restaurants in DC

• Timber Pizza Company: This wood-fired pizza joint in Petworth and Ballston serves delicious food, from traditional pies to unique items like brisket empanadas. Its casual vibe and creative toppings make it a hit among DC residents.

   

• Rose's Luxury: While it's gained national acclaim, Rose's Luxury remains a beloved spot among DC locals for its innovative American cuisine and Michelin star rating.

   

• Red Hen: Situated in the Bloomingdale neighborhood, Red Hen is a cozy Italian restaurant that treats patrons to rustic dishes made with seasonal ingredients. It's a popular spot for locals seeking delicious pasta and hearty entrées.

   

• Taqueria Habanero: This eatery in Petworth offers authentic and flavorful tacos, burritos, and other traditional dishes. It's a hidden gem loved by locals for its affordable prices and delicious food.

   

• Toki Underground: Located atop an H Street NE storefront, Toki Underground is a hip spot specializing in Taiwanese-style ramen and dumplings.

   

• A Baked Joint: This beloved neighborhood bakery and café in the Mount Vernon Triangle neighborhood is known for its tasty baked goods and bread. From flaky croissants and hearty sandwiches to decadent pies and cookies, this inviting eatery has a delightful dish to suit almost any palate.

Best Outdoorsy Things To Do in DC

Washington, DC, and its surrounding areas offer abundant outdoor hiking, biking, and recreational spots. Spend the day away from tourist crowds at these trails and parks:

• C&O Canal Towpath: While parts of the C&O Canal Towpath are popular among tourists, locals favor the less crowded sections. Head to quieter stretches near Great Falls or along the canal further west for scenic hikes and bike rides along the Potomac River.

   

• Rock Creek Park: A network of trails wind through wooded areas, along the creek, and past historic sites in this park.

   

• Mount Vernon Trail: While the Mount Vernon Trail draws crowds for its views of the Potomac River and landmarks like the Washington Monument, quieter sections further south offer scenic paths with fewer tourists.

   

• Anacostia Riverwalk Trail: This multi-use trail along the Anacostia River offers picturesque views of the waterfront, bridges, and natural areas.

   

• Glover Archbold Park: Tucked away in the northwest corner of DC, Glover Archbold Park has wooded trails and streams perfect for hiking and exploring. It's a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle, where locals go to find nature close to home.

   

• Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens: This delightful hidden gem features stunning water lilies, lotuses, and other aquatic plants. It's an oasis away from the crowds, perfect for a peaceful stroll or nature photography.

   

• Capital Crescent Trail: Stretching from Georgetown to Silver Spring, the Capital Crescent Trail follows an abandoned railroad right-of-way and offers views of the Potomac River and the surrounding landscape.

   

• Hains Point Loop: Located along the Potomac River in East Potomac Park, Hains Point Loop has a flat and scenic route for hiking, running, and biking. It's a favorite among locals for its waterfront views and peaceful atmosphere, especially during sunrise or sunset.

   

• Turkey Run Park: Part of the George Washington Memorial Parkway, Turkey Run Park features wooded trails and streams perfect for hiking and wildlife viewing.

   

Best Non-Touristy Neighborhoods

These neighborhoods in Washington, DC, are popular among locals but aren’t typically frequented by tourists, and each has specific places worth visiting.

• Brookland: Known for its artsy personality and community, Brookland offers a range of local-approved spots to explore:
  
  
  
  • Brookland's Finest: This neighborhood restaurant and bar serves great American comfort food and craft cocktails.
    
    
    
  • Monroe Street Market: A mixed-use development featuring shops, restaurants, and luxury apartments, this market is perfect for browsing unique local artwork and grabbing a bite to eat.
    
    
  • Dance Place: This nonprofit dance center offers performances, classes, and community events.
    
    
    
• H Street NE: This up-and-coming neighborhood is known for its eclectic mix of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. These are two must-visit places in the area:
  
  
  
  • Atlas Performing Arts Center: Live performances, art exhibitions, and educational programs, all enjoy the spotlight here.

     

  • Maketto: This hybrid retail store, café, and restaurant serves Asian-inspired cuisine and specialty coffee and has a rooftop bar with panoramic views of the area.
    
    
    
• Petworth: A neighborhood in northwest Washington, DC, characterized by historic rowhouses, local shops, and restaurants, also offers convenient access to parks like Petworth Park and Rock Creek Park. Add these stops to your agenda when you visit:
  
  
  
  • Qualia Coffee: Enjoy the laid-back setting of this cozy café while sipping an espresso and snacking on a pastry.
    
    
  • Loyalty Bookstore: This independent bookstore has a curated selection of new and used books, as well as literary events and author readings.
    
    
    
• Columbia Heights: Enjoy a wide-ranging selection of dining options, shops, and cultural attractions, including the historic Tivoli Theatre and the popular DC USA retail complex. With its central location and convenient access to public transportation, Columbia Heights attracts a wide range of people to its urban lifestyle. Be sure to stop by these spots when you’re in the area:
  
  
  
  • Meridian Hill Park: This historic park, featuring landscaped gardens, cascading fountains, and a Sunday drum circle, offers a peaceful retreat from the city.
    
    
  • Wonderland Ballroom: Known for its relaxed atmosphere, rooftop patio, and live music performances, this spot is a local favorite.
    
    
    
• Takoma Park: Straddling the DC-Maryland border, Takoma Park is known for its progressive community and quirky charm, and these two local hot spots fit the neighborhood’s personality perfectly:
  
  
  
  • Takoma Park Farmers Market: This weekly market, offering fresh produce, baked goods, artisanal products, and live music, showcases the best of the local food scene.
    
    
  • Busboys and Poets Takoma: A community gathering place, this spot combines a bookstore, café, and performance space and hosts author readings, poetry slams, and local events.

Best Shopping Spots in DC

M Street is a popular shopping destination in DC, but it can get pretty crowded with visitors. Check out some of these alternate shopping spots:

• Union Market: Located in the neighborhood north of Massachusetts Avenue called NoMa, Union Market is a hip food hall and retail space featuring a wide selection of vendors with everything from artisanal foods and gourmet groceries to clothing and home goods.

   

• 14th Street NW: Stretching from Logan Circle to U Street, 14th Street is lined with boutique shops, galleries, and specialty stores. Locals enjoy browsing for clothing, jewelry, home décor, and more in this trendy and eclectic corridor.

   

• Eastern Market: Housing a variety of local vendors selling handmade crafts, artwork, antiques, and other unique goods, this is a great place to shop for locally made souvenirs and gifts.

   

• The Yards: Located along the waterfront in Navy Yard, The Yards is a mixed-use development featuring shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Locals enjoy browsing the boutiques and specialty stores for clothing, accessories, and gifts with a waterfront view.
  
  
  
• FRESHFARM Farmers Market: Enjoy a curated selection of local produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and other artisanal products. It's a favorite among locals for its fresh and seasonal options straight from the farm.

   

• Steadfast Supply: This boutique in Navy Yard showcases a rotating selection of goods from local designers, artists, and makers. From clothing and accessories to home décor and apothecary products, Steadfast Supply offers a curated collection of unique and handmade items.

   

• Salt & Sundry: With locations in Union Market and Logan Circle, Salt & Sundry is a stylish shop specializing in home goods, gifts, and accessories. Locals love browsing specially selected artisanal products and distinctive finds for the home.
  
  
  
• Bethesda Row: While technically outside DC in Bethesda, Maryland, Bethesda Row is a popular shopping destination for locals, with its upscale boutiques, specialty stores, and outdoor dining.

DC’s Best Local Bars and Speakeasies

Here are some of the best bars and speakeasies in DC that offer a more authentic and local experience:

• Dacha Beer Garden: Located in Shaw, Dacha Beer Garden is an outdoor spot serving up German-inspired fare and an extensive selection of beers. It's a favorite destination for locals looking to enjoy a casual meal and drink with friends.

   

• Copycat Co.: This intimate cocktail bar on H Street NE draws inspiration from Asian flavors and ingredients to create innovative drinks. The dimly lit space and eclectic decor add to the speakeasy vibe, making it a popular spot for locals in the know.

   

• Left Door: Tucked away in Dupont Circle, Left Door is a hidden gem known for its expertly crafted cocktails and cozy atmosphere. The bar only takes walk-ins and groups of six or less.

   

• The Dabney Cellar: Situated beneath the acclaimed restaurant The Dabney in Shaw, The Dabney Cellar offers a selection of wines, beers, and raw bar fare in a rustic and inviting setting.

Unique Things to Do in DC That Aren’t Touristy

Want to explore more obscure spots in DC? Here are some offbeat things to do or see that aren't typically on the tourist radar:

• Exorcist Steps: Visit the iconic staircase featured in the movie The Exorcist. Located in Georgetown, these steep steps are a popular spot for movie buffs and fans of the supernatural.

   

• Kraken Axe Throwing: Experience the thrill of urban axe throwing at this unique entertainment venue in DC. Gather your friends and see who can hit the bullseye in a controlled environment.
  
  
  
• The Phillips Collection Rothko Room: Step into this intimate room at The Phillips Collection, which features a series of paintings by renowned artist Mark Rothko. The dimly lit space creates a meditative atmosphere so visitors can immerse themselves in Rothko's abstract compositions.

   

• Culture House: This former church turned arts venue, formerly called Blind Whino, is known for its colorful exterior and eclectic events. From art exhibitions to dance parties, Culture House offers a unique and creative space for locals to gather and celebrate.
  
  
  
• Dupont Underground: This former trolley station turned art space hosts various events, art installations, and performances. It's an offbeat venue that offers a distinct perspective on the city's history and creativity.

Things to Do in DC Near New Construction Homes

Whether you’re already a local or scoping out some new DC neighborhoods to call home, plenty of the spots listed in this guide are within 10 miles or less of our new construction communities. Browse our new construction homes in the DC area and discover the nearby local attractions:

Things to Do in DC Near Our New Construction Homes in National Harbor

• Dacha Beer Garden: Grab a beer with friends and this local favorite.
• The Dabney Cellar: Enjoy wines, beers, and raw bar fare for an easy date night.
• Union Market: Shop local artisan food, clothing, and home goods.
• Eastern Market: Browse handmade crafts, artwork, antiques, and other goods.
• C&O Canal Towpath: Hike at the trailhead near Great Falls.
• Anacostia Riverwalk Trail: Enjoy picturesque waterfront views along the trail.
• Glover-Archbold Park: Wooded paths and streams offer a peaceful retreat.
• Capital Crescent Trail: Soak up the scenic views of the Potomac River on this trail.

Things to Do in DC Near Our New Construction Homes in Maple Lawn

• C&O Canal Towpath: Sections of the C&O Canal Towpath are a convenient drive from Maple Lawn.

Things to Do in DC Near Our New Construction Homes in Boyds

• Bethesda Row: Explore upscale boutiques, specialty stores, and outdoor dining in Bethesda.

Things to Do in DC Near Our New Construction Homes in Laurel

• Union Market: This food hall and retail space is about 18 miles from Laurel.
• C&O Canal Towpath: Sections of the C&O Canal Towpath are a convenient drive from Laurel.

Things to Do in DC Near Our New Construction Homes in Potomac

• Bethesda Row: Pop down to Bethesda for an afternoon of shopping.
• Rock Creek Park: Hit the trails at Rock Creek, an easy drive via MD-189 S.

Things to Do in DC Near Our New Construction Homes in Rockville

• Timber Pizza Company: Enjoy a slice of pie with friends.
• Rose's Luxury: Treat yourself to a unique and intimate dining experience.
• C&O Canal Towpath: Explore this popular path for a day outdoors.
• Rock Creek Park Trails: Hike this popular trail via various access points near Rockville.

Conclusion

Use this guide whenever you want to explore the best non-touristy things to do in DC. There is no shortage of ways to experience all this remarkable city offers, and you’ll be living like the locals in no time.

Explore new construction homes in the DC Metro area today or browse more Pulte^® blogs.

Written By: Jordan Thomson, Freelance Writer