February in the DistricSee the giant pandas at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo, check out the Washington Auto Show, celebrate Lunar New Year, Black History Month, Valentine’s Day and much more.
Be sure to check out our special discounts and packages, from luxurious experiences to budget-friendly options.
As 2025 gets under way, the nation's capital has landed on Condé Nast Traveler's "The Best Places to Go in the U.S. in 2025," the New York Times' top places to go around the world and TripAdvisor's top destinations in the U.S.
So regardless of the season, you're bound to have an unforgettable experience in the nation's capital. Be sure to check out special discounts and packages, from luxurious experiences to budget-friendly options, and after you’ve read through this list, make sure to check out our things to do during the week, must-hit weekend events and accessibility guides to monuments and museums on the National Mall.
Honor Black History Month in DC
Black history and culture are an essential part of DC’s identity, which means that there's an abundance of ways to celebrate Black History Month in the city. The nation’s capital is also full of year-round ways to honor the Black experience at museums and memorials. You can also stop by a Black-owned business or read up on the District's Black-owned restaurants and Black chefs.
Washington Capitals
Attend a Capitals, Wizards or Go-Go game
With the winter season comes incredible indoor sports action in the District. The NHL’s Washington Capitals and the NBA’s Washington Wizards play their exciting games inside Capital One Arena, while the Capital City Go-Go, part of the NBA’s developmental G-League, take to the court inside Entertainment & Sports Arena. Discounted tickets to select games for each team are available below.
Washington Capitals Discounted Tickets
Washington Wizards Discounted Tickets
Capital City Go-Go Discounted Tickets
Ice skate in DC
Lace up some skates and triple axel 'round the District at popular ice skating rinks at the National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden, Washington Harbour in Georgetown, Canal Park in Capitol Riverfront and The Wharf. Make sure to read our detailed breakdown of each spot.
See the giant pandas at the Smithsonian's National Zoo
Two new giant pandas, Bao Li and Xing Bao, debut to the public at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo on Jan. 24. The two-year-old pandas have moved into their new digs and will be the most talked-about duo in the nation’s capital throughout 2025.
More Information
Smithsonian’s National Zoo, 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
Bar Japonais © Nina Palazzolo
Metropolitan Washington Restaurant Week – Jan. 27 – Feb. 2
Washington, DC's Winter Restaurant Week returns every January with the promise of high-quality dining, excellent deals and relief to the winter blues. Savor every last bite while taking advantage of special menus and pricing, including to-go options and cocktail and wine pairings, courtesy of the Restaurant Association of Metropolitan Washington and 200+ participating eateries.
Job – Jan. 28 – March 16
Opening this January at Signature Theatre is Job, a psychological thriller that explores the dark side of corporate work, social media and technology. An Off-Broadway sensation and New York Times Critic’s Pick, the show is sure so leave the audience feeling haunted, pensive and on the edge of your seat.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
Celebrate Lunar New Year in the District – Begins Jan. 29
Locations all over the city ring in the Year of the Snake with colorful celebrations, including performances, educational talks, special tours and hands-on activities. Be sure to check out the festive Downtown Parade (Feb. 2), events at the Smithsonian's free National Museum of Asian Art and the Smithsonian American Art Museum (Feb. 1), the National Ballet of China at the Kennedy Center and more.
More Info
The Washington Auto Show – Jan. 31 – Feb. 9
Cars have always held a special allure, captivating the American imagination from the early days of the Model T. Witness the evolution of the vehicle firsthand by attending the Washington, DC Auto Show, which takes place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Even if you don't consider yourself a devoted car enthusiast, there are still plenty of reasons to check out the city's largest annual indoor event.
Tickets
Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Mt. Vernon Place NW, Washington, DC 20001
Broadway Center Stage: Schmigadoon! – Jan. 31 – Feb. 9
Don't miss your chance to see the world premiere of the Emmy Award®–winning hit show Schmigadoon!, based on AppleTV's whimsical, musical comedy series. When New York couple Josh and Melissa venture out to the mountains, they hope to save their relationship. Instead, they find themselves trapped in the 1940s-era singing town of Schmigadoon.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Kathy Griffin – Feb. 1
Comedian Kathy Griffin returns with her My Life on the PTSD-List tour, promising plenty of auto-biographical laughs at the Warner Theatre. While you may know her from one of her 23 televised specials, her two Emmys, her Grammy or her two New York Times-bestselling titles, you certainly haven't heard the whole story.
Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Lunar New Year Market – Feb. 1
Head to the National Museum of Asian Art to celebrate the Year of the Snake. The early evening market at the Smithsonian Arts + Industries Building includes hands-on activities, lion dances, food, artisans, makers, family-friendly entertainment and much more. Over at the museum, tours and talks will also be held throughout the night. Admission is free but registration in advance is recommended.
More Information
Hand to God – Feb. 1 – March 2
The Keegan Theatre stages a Tony-nominated comedy that manages to combine irreverence with contemplations of faith, morality and family ties. After the passing of his father, Jason – who lives in the quiet, religious town of Cypress, Tx. – discovers an outlet for his anxiety at the Christian Puppet Ministry. His complicated relationships with his pastor, the school bully, the girl next door and his mother are thrown into upheaval when Jason’s puppet, Tyrone, shockingly comes to life.
Tickets
Keegan Theatre, 1742 Church Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
Arena Stage
The Bedwetter: The Musical – Feb. 4 – March 16
You'll likely recognize comedian Sarah Silverman's signature wit from her stint on SNL or Comedy Central, her voice acting on Bob's Burgers, one of her many stand up specials or even her bestselling comedic memoir The Bedwetter. In 2022, the latter was adapted for the stage by a Tony-nominated director (Anna Kauffman) and a Grammy- and Emmy-winning composer (Adam Schlesinger) – and now, you're in luck: lively "stories of courage, redemption and pee" take over Arena Stage’s Kreeger Theater for a limited time this spring.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
The Simon & Garfunkel Story – Feb. 5
T.One of the most iconic duos in the history of popular music receives an elaborate musical tribute at DC’s National Theatre. The concert-style show depicts the journey of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel to superstardom and their eventual split in 1970. The shows climaxes with their famous reunion concert in Central Park in 1981. A full live band will perform hits like “Mrs. Robinson,” “Cecilia” and “Bridge Over Troubled Water."
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Sam Morril – Feb. 7
One of the brightest stars in stand-up comedy is New York City native Sam Morril, whose self-deprecating style and outstanding crowd work has turned him into an Instagram favorite. Proof of the comedian’s success is his booking at Warner Theatre, one of DC’s most historic venues and often host to some of the biggest names in stand-up.
7 p.m. | Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Ari Shapiro – Feb. 7
A lifetime of poignant stories, told to Ari Shapiro as the host of NPR's "All Things Considered," are distilled into one spectacular solo cabaret act. By channeling the content of his New York Times best-selling memoir The Best Strangers in the World, Shapiro wants everyone to feel a little more connected – and a little more human.
More Info
Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
Atlas Performing Arts Center
AJAX – Jan. 17 – Feb. 9
DC’s Scena Theatre presents a modern reimagining of the famous tragedy by Sophocles at the Atlas Performing Arts Center. The production is reset in today’s Middle East, illustrating how ancient Greece’s Trojan War has themes and lessons that are hauntingly similar to contemporary wars in the region. The play examines the wider impacts of war and the personal costs of conflict, powerfully showcasing the plight of the American soldier.
Tickets
Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H Street NE, Washington, DC 20002
In the Heights – Opens Feb. 11
One of the most beloved and energetic American musicals will light up Signature Theatre this spring. Between beloved Latin beats, colorful choreography and favorite numbers like “96,000,” “Paciencia y Fe,” and “Carnaval del Barrio," In the Heights will immerse viewers in the characters, community and culture of Washington Heights.
Tickets
Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
American Ballet Theatre: Crime and Punishment – Feb. 12-16
One of modern literature’s essential texts, Fyodor Dostoyevsky’s novel Crime and Punishment is a psychological thriller about a poor, helpless young man’s horrendous act of murder and his following desperate quest for redemption. Choreographer Helen Pickett and director James Bonas were inspired to create a ballet filled with striking movement and powerful physicality that is not to be missed when performed by the American Ballet Theatre at the illustrious Kennedy Center.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
W. Kamau Bell: Who’s With Me? – Feb. 13
Triumphantly returning to his roots, W. Kamau Bell steps back onto the stand-up stage on his new tour. The comedian and filmmaker has lots of questions, opinions and a heavy dose of silliness for you in these hectic times. The Kennedy Center hosts a night sure to be filled with curiosity and hilarity.
8 p.m. | Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Games Women Play – Feb. 13-15
The National Theatre brings Je’Caryous Johnson’s hilarious and emotional comedy to its stage just in time for Valentine’s Day. Love, ambition and trust are each central themes in this story of a financial advisor (Caleb) and his fiancée (Paisley). When Caleb proposes to Paisley AND drops a prenup bombshell on a live podcast, there’s immediately trouble in paradise. Plenty of twists and turns ensue as more and more parties are involved and more and more feelings are laid on the line.
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Plan your Valentine's Day date in the District – Feb. 14
The nation’s capital dazzles as a romantic destination, especially on Valentine's Day. Treat your significant other to one of many unique and noteworthy experiences in the city, from award-winning dining to theater arts. If you're looking for even more date night inspiration, check out our full guide to the romantic side of DC.
Step Afrika! Step Classic – Feb. 14-16
A three-day celebration of stepping in the heart of our nation’s capital is inspired by the legacy of HBCU Classics. The Step Classic’s inaugural weekend highlights the powerful artform of stepping, bringing together community, culture and celebration in a way only Step Afrika! can. With step teams from across the country, the Classic centers stepping’s origins within the Divine Nine and its evolution into a unifying tradition that bridges generations and honors Black heritage.
Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
R&B Invitation Tour: Joe, Musiq Soulchild & Eric Benét – Feb. 15
For the most soulful of date nights, secure your seat at DAR Constitution Hall to see three beloved brands of romantic R&B come together in DC. Don't miss the chance to see these veterans co-headline – Benét's recent hit “Something We Can Make Love To” gives a taste of of the sultry tunes in store.
Tickets
DAR Constitution Hall, 1776 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20006
Capitol Hill Volleyball Classic – Feb. 15-17
Founded in 2007, this 1,000+ team USA Volleyball seeding tournament held in the nation's capital champions amateur sports, supports talented youth athletes and fundraises for the American Experience Foundation.
More Info
Walter E. Washington Convention Center, 801 Allen Y. Lew Place NW, Washington, DC 20001
A Night of Love DC: Trey Songz & Tamar Braxton – Feb. 16
Love will be in the air at DC’s Entertainment & Sports Arena when two R&B superstars grace the stage to cap off Valentine’s Day weekend. Trey Songz, who has sold more than 25 million singles and albums worldwide, will be joined by fellow hitmaker Tamar Braxton for A Night of Love, DC-style.
7 p.m. | Tickets
Entertainment & Sports Arena, 1100 Oak Drive SE, Washington, DC 20032
Kunene and The King – Feb. 16 – March 16
In its U.S. premiere, this play written and performed by Tony-winner John Kani is sure to enthrall audiences at Shakespeare Theatre Company’s Klein Theatre. Kunene and The King concerns Lunga Kunene (played by Kani), who has been charged with the care of a classical actor (played by Edward Gero) who was just offered a career-defining role as King Lear. The Bard serves as a unifier in this stirring tale set 25 years after the fall of apartheid.
Tickets
Klein Theatre, 450 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Guac – Jan. 25 – Feb. 16
The Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company hosts a one-man tour-de-force theatrical performance from Manuel Oliver, the father of Parkland shooting victim Joaquin Oliver. Totally fearless and remarkably funny, the father-turned-activist speaks to his undying love for his son and how his family has navigated an unspeakable and uniquely American tragedy.
Tickets
Woolly Mammoth Theatre, 641 D Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Celebrate Washington's birthday in DC – Feb. 17
Whether you know it as our first president's birthday or Presidents' Day, the nation's capital presents unique ways to engage with the history and legacy of U.S. leaders. Take a tour, plan a day of presidential experiences, explore DC's monuments and memorials, indulge in presidential dining or retreat to George Washington's Mount Vernon for free.
2025 Capital Orchestra Festival – Feb. 17
Five orchestras from all over the country visit the Kennedy Center to perform for one night only during this annual festival. Across the evening, these incredibly talented musicians will perform renditions of works by Beethoven, Mozart, Fauré, John Williams and Camille Saint-Saëns. The performance is free to attend, but tickets are required.
Free Admission (Ticket Required)
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Toro y Moi & Panda Bear – Feb. 17
Sonic adventures abound across the discographies of Toro y Moi and Panda Bear, two of indie music’s most engaging, shape-shifting chameleons. Panda Bear (AKA Noah Lennox) once wore a mask as a member of the group Animal Collective; in many ways, each of his new releases is the brilliant artist trying on a new vibe or sound, foraging deeper into the possibilities of pop. Toro y Moi (AKA Chaz Bear) has taken similar strides in a decades-long career of idiosyncratic music, with his latest LP seeing him place emo, Soundcloud rap and rock side-by-side in a way only he can. The 9:30 Club is privileged to host both artists on the same bill.
6:30 p.m. | Tickets
9:30 Club, 815 V Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
NMWA Nights – Feb. 19
The National Museum of Women in the Arts’ popular evening series triumphantly returns in 2025. For the February edition, join a museum-wide scavenger hunt that uncovers new narratives within the art on view. DJs Alex Love and Lauren Jay duel in the Great Hall and art-making activities will be plentiful. Two drink tickets are included with admission with additional food and beverages available for purchase.
5:30-8 p.m. | Tickets
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Go-Go Museum and Cafe – Opens Feb. 19
DC’s newest museum attraction opens for special events and guests with tickets, showcasing the official music of the nation’s capital like never before. The Go-Go Museum & Cafe will serve as the official site for the appreciation and study of go-go music as well as its history, impact and vitality. Expect a state-of-the-art experience inside Anacostia’s latest landmark.
1920 Martin Luther King, Jr. Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20020
The Second City – Feb. 19-22
To celebrate 65 years, Chicago’s iconic comedy and improv group The Second City promises an evening of roaring laughter and special picks from the archives, including musical numbers, sketches and memorable personalities created by legendary alumni like Bill Murray, Catherine O’Hara, Stephen Colbert and more.
Tickets
Wolf Trap, 1635 Trap Road, Vienna, VA 22182
transcenDANCE – Feb. 20-23
Hip-hop, ballet and modern dance are mixed in what promises to be an unforgettable evening of entertainment at the Kennedy Center. Rising star Jennifer Archibald will present a world premiere piece that encompasses multiple disciplines. The program also features Edwaard Liang’s visually stunning take on Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons."
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Shen Yun Performing Arts – Feb. 20 – March 2
Don't miss this chance to see the world-renowned vocalists, musicians and dancers that make up the Shen Yun Performing Arts group. In the artists' newest show, which promises their signature magic and elegance, 5,000 years' worth of Chinese myth and culture are woven together alongside a live orchestra, creating a dynamic feast for the eyes and ears.
Tickets
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
We Gather at the Edge: Contemporary Quilts by Black Women Artists – Feb. 21 – June 22
Two years ago, the Smithsonian American Art Museum acquired 35 quilts from Dr. Carolyn Mazloomi, who holds a doctorate in aerospace engineering and is also a prolific artist, curator and scholar. The scope of the quilts featured is remarkable and groundbreaking in its representation of Black history and culture.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Jo Koy: Just Being Koy – Feb. 22
Prepare to laugh out loud with comedian Jo Koy and what is sure to be a full house at Capital One Arena. Having gained a loyal following as a result of his tours and stand up specials, comedy-lovers continue to fall for Koy's high-energy delivery and charismatic reflections on his family and everyday existence.
Tickets
Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Jason Moran, Marcus Gilmore, BlankFor.ms – Feb. 22
A new trio makes its Kennedy Center debut led by its Artistic Director for Jazz, Jason Moran. His musical genius will be on full display as he mans the piano with tape loop specialist BlankFor.ms and drummer Marcus Gilmore in tow. You’ll witness electronics and instruments interact in real time, resulting in sounds and energies you won’t hear anywhere else, especially in a live setting.
7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m. | Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
The Other Children of the Sun – Feb. 22 – March 9
Family-friendly programming at the Kennedy Center offers a superhero adventure this winter. The Other Children of the Sun is based on a Navajo creation legend and follows celestial siblings in a thought-provoking and comedic exploration of heroism. Monsters will be slayed in the captivating production that is recommended for ages seven and up.
Tickets
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, 2700 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20566
Timeless Mucha: The Magic of Line – Feb. 22 – May 18
A new exhibit at The Phillips Collection reappraises the work of Art Nouveau pioneer Alphonse Mucha and explores his impact on graphic art over the last 60-plus years. Visitors can experience Mucha’s distinct style and learn how psychedelic artists of later generations rediscovered his work and used it to inspire a wide range of media, from comics to manga and murals.
Hours & Admission
The Phillips Collection, 1600 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
Shucked – Feb. 25 – March 2
The National Theatre serves as a wondrous showcase for Broadway masterpieces, a trend that continues with this Tony Award®–winning musical comedy from Kacey Musgraves’ brilliant songwriting team (Brandy Clark and Shane McAnally) and award-winning director Jack O’Brien. Expect hearty laughs in a corn-fed and corn-bred musical extravaganza.
Tickets
The National Theatre, 1321 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
Dropkick Murphys – Feb. 27
With a new album on the way, Boston’s favorite sons bring their raucous energy to The Anthem for just one night. Plan to be plenty warmed up when you step inside any venue for a Dropkick Murphys show, which are invigorating displays of swashbuckling, Irish-inspired energy. Don’t be surprised when the evening ends in one gigantic sing-along.
7 p.m. | Tickets
The Anthem, 901 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
An Intimate Evening with Jason Isbell – Feb. 27 – March 1
Catch one of folk music’s greatest living singer/songwriters when the legendary Jason Isbell visits the iconic Warner Theatre for three consecutive nights. From his days in The Drive-By Truckers to his spellbinding solo work, Isbell has made a name for himself as one of the most insightful lyricists of his time. He’s even an accomplished actor, showing off his chops in Martin Scorsese’s Oscar-winning Killers of the Flower Moon. You won’t want to miss this uber-talented artist at one of the city’s most historic venues.
Tickets
Warner Theatre, 513 13th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
DMV Winter Fest – Feb. 28
If you’re looking to liven up a Friday night in late February, The DMV Winter Fest has you covered. Capital One Arena hosts this event that brings together some of the hottest hip-hop artists on the same stage. Performers include Latto, Bryson Tiller, Hunxho, Jacquees, Skilla Baby, Big Boogie and many other special guests.
7 p.m. | Tickets
Capital One Arena, 601 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Age of Innocence – Feb. 28 – March 30
Adapted from the beloved Edith Wharton novel by playwright Karen Zacarías, this new play at Arena Stage will captivate audiences with its stirring depiction of 1870s New York City. The Age of Innocence is timeless in its powerful critique of the harshness of societal norms as it masterfully depicts Newland Archer’s struggles as he must choose between privilege and passion.
Tickets
Arena Stage, 1101 6th Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
Uncanny – Feb. 28 – Aug. 10
The National Museum of Women in the Arts invites visitors to an exploration of unease across a range of surreal media. The only museum solely dedicated to championing women artists treads into new territory with Uncanny, which reveals women’s authorship of surreal narratives, revealing how the concept is used by these artists to regain agency and dissect feelings of revulsion, fear and discomfort.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
Hold On, Change is Coming – Through March 1
Zenith Gallery celebrates Black History Month with a display of artists who use their work to honor their Blackness in a variety of mediums and styles. Each artist in Hold On, Change is Coming produces pieces that are profoundly unique, meaningful and well-executed, each established with work displayed in prestigious collections and at museums both domestically and internationally.
Hours: Wednesday – Saturday, 12-6 p.m. (or by appointment)
Zenith Gallery, 1429 Iris Street NW, Washington, DC 20012
Anacostia Community Museum
A Bold and Beautiful Vision: A Century of Black Arts Education in Washington, DC, 1900-2000 – Through March 2
The Anacostia Community Museum sheds light on fascinating local history with an exhibit featuring captivating original artworks, rare video footage and can't-miss artifacts including Alma Thomas’s paintbrushes and watercolor paint set, an early 20th-century lifelike marionette that William Buckner made with his local high school students, original Elizabeth Catlett prints that once hung in the halls of her DC high school and Sam Gilliam pieces from his tenure as a teacher at McKinley Technical High School. Experience the influence, power and creativity of the Black artist-educators who empowered generations of DC students.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum, 1901 Fort Place SE, Washington, DC 20020
Twilight Zone: Hidden Wonders of the Ocean
ARTECHOUSE and the Woods Holde Oceanographic Institution have collaborated to highlight an awe-inspiring nightly migration of ocean twilight zone creatures and their intricate connections to the planet’s health, including their contributions to the regulation of the earth’s climate. The groundbreaking exhibition offers a 24-minute cinematic journey with immersive 270-degree projections that span from floor to wall, complemented by six interactive installations and six XR activations. Use the code 'AEF10' for discounted tickets.
Tickets
ARTECHOUSE, 1238 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20002
JewCE: The Jewish Comics Experience – Through March 23
A hero is a hero, but which iconic comic book character(s) can be called a real mensch? Find the answer and learn some fascinating trivia at the Capital Jewish Museum, which explores the theme of superheroes from the 1930s to the 1960s with Jewish backgrounds. Whether these well-loved protagonists had Jewish creators or celebrated their own bar mitzvahs in the comic’s pages, fun facts and a history of chutzpah await. Contemporary graphic novels and DC-focused lore are also included.
Tickets
Lillian and Albert Small Capital Jewish Museum, 575 3rd Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Samantha Box: Confluences – Through March 23
The National Museum of Women in the Arts presents stunning documentary and studio-based photographs from Bronx-based artist Samantha Box in her first solo exhibition in the nation’s capital. Box’s two major bodies of work are seen together for the first time, revealing complex conversations around nationality, race, class, gender and sexual orientation.
Hours & Admission
National Museum of Women in the Arts, 1250 New York Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
The ‘70s Lens: Reimagining Documentary Photography – Through April 6
Across a wondrous collection of roughly 100 works by more than 80 artists, the National Gallery of Art gives visitors a chance to explore the dramatic shift in documentary photography that played out during the turmoil-filled decade of the 1970s. As Americans faced the Watergate scandal, inflation, energy crises and a host of other developments, documentary photographers shifted their collective perspective, leading to brilliant images that depict vibrant communities, suburban sprawl, conceptual art, nature and much more.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
National Gallery of Art, 6th Street & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC
This Morning, This Evening, So Soon: James Baldwin and the Voices of Queer Resistance – Through April 20
Guest curated by Pulitzer Prize-winning author Hilton Als, the National Portrait Gallery’s new exhibit focuses on one of the most important American writers of the 20th century. James Baldwin beautifully spoke out against injustice throughout his stirring career. He and other queer artists had to keep their sexuality hidden even while speaking up for civil rights. In addition to portraits of Baldwin, the exhibit also highlights many of his contemporaries including Lorraine Hansberry, Barbara Jordan, Bayard Rustin, Essex Hemphill and Marlon Riggs.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20001
Bond In Motion – Through April 25
Across more than six decades of films, James Bond has become the on-screen embodiment of spies for millions. The International Spy Museum pays homage to the fictional character, along with his allies and adversaries, with a breathtaking display of iconic vehicles from the movies. In total, visitors can fix their eyes on 17 pieces, including cars, motorcycles, submarines and even more from the Q Branch Garage.
Hours & Admission
International Spy Museum, 700 L’Enfant Plaza SW, Washington, DC 20024
The Print Generation – Through April 27
Early in the 20th century, a new generation of Japanese print artists took hold of the entire process of creation, from designing to carving to printing. The new approach, known as “sōsaku hanga”, led to raw and unique works throughout a period of turmoil in Japan. Many of these fascinating pieces are on display in this exhibit at the National Museum of Asian Art.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of Asian Art, 1050 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Harry Benson: Washington D.C.
For the duration of the 2024-25 NBA and NHL seasons, Monumental Sports & Entertainment, Ted and Lynn Leonsis and Jeff Skoll present a landmark exhibit featuring more than 150 photographs by legendary photojournalist Harry Benson, renowned for his chronicles of culture, politics, music, movies, television and sports. The gallery, produced by Ted Leonsis and Jeff Skoll, is located next door to Capital One Arena at 707-709 7th Street NW and spans two floors across 10,000 square feet. The free exhibit includes photographs of every President and First Lady since Dwight Eisenhower, iconic images of legendary athletes and musicians, a behind-the-scenes look at The Beatles' arrival to the United States, stunning moments from the Civil Rights Movement and much more.
Wednesday-Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. | Free Admission | Reserve Tickets
707-709 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20004
Animationland – Through May 11
The National Children’s Museum invites learners from ages 6 to 12 and their families to join Tracey the pencil dog and her crew on a fantastically immersive journey, creating stories using science and imagination. Dive into the world of storytelling and creativity. Kids can develop their own animated masterpiece using animation basics and enjoy a variety of exhibit experiences.
National Children’s Museum, 1300 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20004
National Museum of African American History and Culture
In Slavery's Wake – Through June 8
The National Museum of African American History and Culture's new exhibit offers a dynamic mix of history, art and media. Visitors can observe connections between Black freedom-makers across time and join in a global conversation on the continued impacts of slavery and colonialism. The multi-lingual experience features 100 objects, 250 images and 10 multi-media interactives and films.
10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily | Reserve Timed Passes
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture, 1400 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
OSGEMEOS: Endless Story – Through July 6
Gustavo and Otavio Pandolfo are the identical twin brothers that comprise OSGEMEOS, which is Portuguese for “the twins.” The Hirshhorn Museum presents the first U.S. survey and the largest American exhibition of work by the duo to date. In total, the full-floor exhibit features roughly 1,000 artworks, photos and archival materials that detail OSGEMEOS’ unique artistic voice that combines heritage, urban art, graffiti and magical elements.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden, Independence Avenue & 7th Street NW, Washington, DC 20560
Felix Gonzalez-Torres: Always to Return – Through July 6
The National Portrait Gallery and the Archives of American Art present an exhibition that goes in-depth on artist Felix Gonzalez-Torres’ engagement with portraiture, identity and history. Gonzalez-Torres’ groundbreaking work revolutionized the artform, elevating the notion of what a portrait could be.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian’s National Portrait Gallery, 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Sublime Light: Tapestry Art of DY Begay – Through Summer 2025
In honor of one of the great fiber artists, the National Museum of the American Indian showcases 48 works by DY Begay. Across these dozens of tapestries, Begay explores her homeland and heritage through a divine sense of color, stirring innovation and sharp eye for design. Her pieces effectively illustrate a non-Western way of being to contemporary audiences.
10 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. | Free Admission
National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20560
Pictures of Belonging: Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo – Through Aug. 17
The Smithsonian American Art Museum honors three of the most important female American artists of Japanese descent in the years leading up to World War II. Across eight decades, the careers of Miki Hayakawa, Hisako Hibi and Miné Okubo helped shape modern American art. This exhibit examines the three trailblazers like never before, tracing their artistic evolution before, during and after the internment and displacement of Japanese Americans during World War II.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
The Shape of Power: Stories of Race and American Sculpture – Through Sept. 14
The Smithsonian American Museum’s new exhibit examines sculpture’s role in understanding and constructing race in the United States. Across 82 sculptures created between 1792 and 2023 by 70 different artists, visitors can observe historical and modern works that inspire conversation and reflections on how power, identity and race are intertwined.
11:30 a.m. – 7 p.m. | Free Admission
Smithsonian American Art Museum, 8th & G Streets NW, Washington, DC 20004
Collecting Memories – Through Dec. 2025
The Library of Congress opens its new David M. Rubenstein Treasures Gallery with a brand-new exhibit filled to the brim with fascinating artifacts across its 120 items. Collecting Memories includes Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, a map from the Lewis and Clark Expedition, lyrics from The Sound of Music and much more in its examination of how cultures preserve the past.
Hours | Free Admission
Library of Congress, 101 Independence Avenue SE, Washington, DC 20540
Martin E. Red Bear / National Museum of the American Indian
Unbound: Narrative Art of the Plains – Through Jan. 20, 2026
The National Museum of the American Indian celebrates narrative art among Native nations of the Great Plains with an exciting new exhibition. You'll see historical works alongside contemporary commissions, from battle records to ledger books to pop culture takes.
More info | Free Admission
National Museum of the American Indian, 4th Street & Independence Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20560
Fierce Flora: Tales of Survival and Demise – Ongoing
The U.S. Botanic Garden invites you to see the ferocious side of flora and fauna at its special new exhibit. Many plants have evolved defenses against infection, herbivores and their plant competition. The multisensory display will showcase this evolution and also pinpoint how these plants can be both harmful and helpful to humans.
10 a.m. – 5 p.m. | Free Admission
U.S. Botanic Garden, 100 Maryland Avenue SW, Washington, DC 20001
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