Summer’s winding down, but there’s still time to soak up the sun with a staycation right here in Downtown D.C.! Skip the pricey overseas trip and discover vibrant city adventures in several downtown neighborhoods. With school around the corner, it’s the perfect moment for some last-minute family fun. Explore our curated Staycation Itineraries for top spots to visit, things to do, and delicious places to eat in Penn Quarter-Chinatown and CityCenterDC and by Walter E. Washington Convention Center and Franklin Park. Treat yourself to a memorable end-of-summer experience without breaking the bank!
PENN QUARTER-CHINATOWN
Beyond the many galleries, museums, and the sports arena in Penn Quarter-Chinatown, there’s never a dull moment.
Visit
- Enjoy fun and games at The Escape Game, Puttery, and SPIN.
- Catch a play at Ford’s Theatre, Shakespeare Theatre Company, or Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company
Do
- Attend the MOAPIA Movie Night/Lantern Making in Chinatown Park on August 23 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Eat
- Stop for some gelato at Pitango Gelato
- Have some ramen at Daikaya
- For Persian cuisine, dine at Rumi’s Kitchen
CITYCENTERDC
After shopping til you drop in Downtown D.C.’s luxury retail block, there’s still much you can do at CityCenterDC.
Visit
- Immerse yourself in the Museum of Illusions
- Grab fresh produce and goods at the FRESHFARM CityCenterDC Market
Do
- Stop and relax for a moment at the The Grove, a seasonal seating installation
- Take social media-worthy photos underneath the Coneflower Canopy installation
Eat
- High quality restaurants like Fig & Olive and Estuary
- Grab a quick bite at Tatte Bakery & Cafe
FRANKLIN PARK
Enjoy the scenery of Franklin Park, the largest green space in Downtown D.C. then stroll not too far to
Visit
- Walk over to Planet Word Museum for an immersive language experience
- Visit the New Worlds: Women to Watch 2024 exhibit at the National Museum of Women in the Arts
- Relax and rejuvenate at INARI Salon & Spa
Do
- Attend Capital Fashion Week on August 16-18 from 6:00 p.m. – 10:000 p.m.
- Attend DC State Fair 2024 on September 7 from 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Eat
- Dine at and enjoy a show at Carlyle Room
- For an upscale African cuisine experience, visit the newly opened The Continent DC
WALTER E. WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER
Many large conference events take place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Here’s what you can do after.
Visit
- Experience innovative relaxation at Soulex Float Spa
- Shop men’s wear at The Gentlemen’s Closet
Do
- Attend Sneaker Con on August 17-18 from 12:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Attend Events DC Summer Movie Series: Wish on August 14 from 6:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.
Eat
- Grab dessert from The Peach Cobbler Factory
- Walk a short distance to satisfy your hunger at Unconventional Diner or Founding Farmers & Distillers