There are so many things to do in and around D.C. this week that it might be overwhelming to decide what to do. But this is exactly why Secret D.C. aims to make your life easier by creating this list of the best things to do in D.C. this week.
There’s also something fun in the district, whether it be a limited-time exhibit, a big show coming to town, or even opening a new place to eat or drink!
So, without further ado, here is our list of the 11 exciting activities to enjoy in D.C. this week:
1. Catch this cult-classic film-turned-musical
The iconic book and film, Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas, is coming to D.C. in the form of a musical titled, The Untitled Unauthorized Hunter S. Thompson Musical. The rock musical, directed by Tony award winner, Christopher Ashley, promises to be exciting and surreal deep dive into the exciting life of Hunter S. Thompson, inventor of gonzo journalism. An ode to risk-takers and counter-culture, the play is 2 hours and 40 minutes long and is running from June 3rd to July 13th.
Where: Signature Theatre, 4200 Campbell Avenue, Arlington, VA 22206
2. Get outdoors (but stay hydrated) on one of these nearby hikes
Summer may be hot, but with the right precautions, it’s also the best season to get into the great outdoors. Check out one of these gorgeous hikes, some that lead to waterfalls, for a fun micro-adventure in your own backyard.
3. This new immersive museum will unleash your inner child
Bubble Planet is headed to DC so if you love museums that double as photo opps, you’re going to love it! This interactive exhibit has 10 different rooms, all with different themes, colors, and sights. Bubbles ranging from soapy baths to smoke-filled orbs to balloons will allow you to float through a magical story that you likely haven’t experienced before.
Get your tickets here!.
Where: Rhode Island Center
524 Rhode Island Ave NE, 20002
4. Step into a serene oasis at Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens
Open Tuesdays through Sundays from 10 am to 5 pm, Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is a D.C. gem. Visitors are invited to explore an extravagant mansion, grab a bite to eat at Merriweather Café, and soak up the lush beauty of the outdoor gardens.
Tickets for adults are $15, with various discounts available for seniors, students, and children. Plan your visit here!
There’s no better place to pay respects on Memorial Day than here in D.C. where the city hosts some of the best events of the year, from the National Parade, National Concert, and event at the nation’s biggest cemetery for military veterans.
5. See a movie at select AMC Theaters and snag discounted food and drink
There’s a reason it’s a classic date idea — you can’t beat summer blockbusters with a snack and a drink!
Now, when you go to a movie at a participating theater, you can get a discount on your drink and popcorn!
Learn more about discount tickets and vouchers for drinks & snacks here!.
Where: Multiple locations
6. Get happy at Dopamine Land
There’s a new interactive museum heading to D.C. that is sure to put a smile on your face. Dopamine Land has 10 themed interactive rooms that are perfect for photo ops, try oxygen aromatherapy, and sip on CBD sodas to get that happy feeling you might be missing in your day-to-day.
Grab your tickets today.7. See a showing of Twelfth Night
Shakespeare Folger Library is putting on Twelfth Night from now until June 22nd, so don’t miss your chance to see one of the most transcendent stories from the English language right here in D.C. Get your tickets here.
Where: Folger Theatre, 201 East Capitol Street SE, Washington, DC 20003
9. Attend DC/Dox Festival
If you’re interested in a variety of topics, you can assume there’s probably a documentary about it. And maybe you can catch it at DC/Dox Festival, a huge documentary film festival happening from June 12th to 15th. All in all, there will be 94 films with 59 features and 35 shorts from 25 countries. There will be many docs politics, from the Afghanistan war to the first transgender member of Congress but there’s also stories about culture and climate, like the comedian, Andy Kaufman and a doc about the natives of Mount Everest. Check out the full lineup and how to get tickest for screenings here.
10. Unleash your inner maker at one of D.C.’s craft classes
Feeling crafty this week?
Featuring paintings, jewelry, candles, and beyond, these hands-on creative classes will unleash your inner maker (and reduce your screen time).
Take a look at some of our favorite DIY classes and workshops here.
11. Catch an outdoor film at the National Harbor
Starting on Thursday, May 1st, the National Harbor will be kicking off their seasonal ‘Movies on the Potomac’ outdoor film series!
This Sunday, you can check out a showing of Wicked starting at 7pm!
12. Attend a concert at the annual Jazz at the Met
Jazz at the Met is back in full-swing for another season. Every Thursday from May 8th to June 12th, you can experience a jazz concert from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. There are food and drink vendors and free art activities hosted by the Museum of Contemporary Art Arlington. This Thursday, Akua Allrich & the TRIBE (Afro-Jazz) is performing. Register online here.
13. Feel nostalgic at Warped Tour
For the first time in quite some time, Warped Tour will be arriving in D.C.! There will a huge lineup of new and old acts this weekend. You can check out Warped Tour from June 14th to 15th.