WASHINGTON, D.C. (Amazing America) — What better way to celebrate America’s upcoming 250th birthday than to enjoy a fun-filled weekend in the nation’s capital?

Washington, D.C., truly has something for everyone: the foodie, the animal lover, the history buff, etc. Pack light, because the moment you set foot in D.C., it’s time to start exploring.

Follow along with us as we visit monuments, museum hop, find delicious brunch spots, and more.

Whether you like to pack your trip with as many stops and sights as humanly possible or you’d rather leisurely take the city in, there are endless ways to experience Washington, D.C. Are you more like Alise (@alise.in.wanderland), who enjoys getting lost in the Smithsonian museum and slowly taking in the city’s natural beauty, or would you rather tag along with Luke (@notyourgovteacher) as he runs along the Tidal Basin and jogs to some of D.C.’s most renowned monuments and memorials?

Fun and exploration take countless forms in the nation’s capital; you really can choose your own adventure!

Did you know that the Library of Congress hosts a happy hour with live music each Thursday evening beginning at 5pm? “Live! At the Library” is the perfect opportunity to make your Night at the Museum dreams come true.

Enjoy refreshments, browse exhibits, admire the architecture, and experience one of America’s most iconic institutions in an incredibly memorable way. Free timed-entry passes are required; reserve them here.

In D.C., “brunching” is absolutely a verb. On any given Saturday or Sunday in the District, you’ll see countless people out and about with one main item on their agenda: brunch.

We tried out a few of the city’s most popular brunch spots, and they did not disappoint.

Unconventional Diner’s blueberry buttermilk pancakes were the stuff of dreams, and we kept the pancake train going at Busboys and Poets with their chicken & pancakes — delicious. Ambar can’t be beat when it comes to originality and variety: Their menu is packed with Balkan-inspired dishes ranging from beet tzatziki and pork tenderloin sliders to utipci (donuts stuffed with jam or chocolate hazelnut spread) and caramel apple waffles.

Oh, and did we mention mimosas?

The Smithsonian National Zoological Park (AKA the National Zoo) is one of D.C.’s most beloved attractions, and entry is totally free.

It’s easy to spend a day here, with tons of incredible animal habitats and astounding biodiversity.

Fun fact: the Smithsonian Zoo is home to over 2,200 animals! Aside from the animals, though, the zoo also boasts a whimsical hidden gem: a carousel! Unleash your inner child and take a spin — we sure did.

The Washington National Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, with over 200 ornate stained-glass windows, underground chapels, and breathtaking views of D.C. from the seventh floor observation deck. When you visit, try to spot the Darth Vader carving: it’s located high up on the northwest tower.

The cathedral is located 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW. Check the website for the latest information and prices for the self-guided tours and the guided tours.

One of D.C.’s quirkiest attractions, the O Museum in The Mansion features a maze-like layout with more than 100 rooms and 80 secret doors.

Equal parts treasure hunt and time capsule, this immersive experience is fun for folks of all ages. Tickets can be purchased here.

History and happy hours intertwine seamlessly in D.C., especially at three of the city’s most iconic watering holes.

Old Ebbitt Grill was founded in 1856, making it the city’s oldest saloon. Situated just a few blocks from the White House, Old Ebbitt is a quintessentially Washingtonian establishment that’s frequented by politicians and tourists alike.

The term “lobbyist” originated at the Round Robin Bar at the Willard InterContinental Hotel, and if those oak-paneled walls could talk, they’d have plenty of stories. The Round Robin Bar is also where the Mint Julep cocktail was introduced to Washington in the 1800s.

For a dose of Kennedy legend, head to Georgetown and belly up to Martin’s Tavern, where JFK proposed to Jackie in booth number three.

Thanks for coming along with us as we explored Washington, D.C. Where should we go next?

We know there are plenty of other stories of unique landmarks and cultural experiences in all corners of the USA, and we’re making it our mission to find and highlight them. If you know of one, we’d love to hear about it. Send a DM to @amazingamericatv on Instagram!

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