Memorable Washington, D.C., Group Activities
Whether you live in D.C. or are just coming for a quick visit, you’ll find no shortage of fun activities around the city fit for groups large and small—you just have to know where to look. Luckily, we’re here to help. From exploring D.C.’s world-class museums to floating down the Potomac, these group activities are perfect for team building, birthday parties, alumni events, and more. You’ll be sure to come away with lasting memories and an ever-deeper love for the city.
History & Culture Activities
1. Smithsonian Museum Scavenger Hunts
From the National Museum of Natural History to the Air and Space Museum and beyond, you can’t go wrong simply exploring the Smithsonian’s many museums. But whether you’ve been through the museums in the past or the experience is brand new, you can also take your group’s experience up a notch with museum scavenger hunts from Watson Adventures. Best of all, there are options for every group:
- Art lovers can discover secrets and solve murders at the National Gallery of Art or the American Art Museum and Portrait Gallery.
- History buffs and casual groups alike can explore the National Museum of American History or the National Museum of African American History & Culture.
- Dino hunters and space explorers dare not miss hunts at the National Museum of Natural History, the newly revitalized Air & Space Museum on the Mall, or the Udvar-Hazy Center in Virginia.
2. Monuments and Memorials Tour
Take a guided tour of the District’s iconic monuments and memorials, such as the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument. Whether by day or by night, a monuments tour is a great way to learn about American history, or simply marvel at architectural wonders, together.
3. Live Performances at The Kennedy Center
Attend a live performance at the Kennedy Center, from ballet to touring Broadway musicals to improv shows. Whatever you choose, this trip is a cultural treat for any group.
4. Capitol Hill Walking Tours
Join a walking tour of Capitol Hill to see historic buildings and the beating heart of American democracy up close. Most tours include stops in the famous Rotunda, the “Crypt” beneath it (it’s not a real crypt), and National Statuary Hall.
5. Scavenger Hunts Around the White House
Your group of super sleuths have a few options for hunts around the White House. Uncover history’s mysteries on the Race to the White House Scavenger Hunt. Catch a killer on the Murder at the White House Scavenger Hunt. Or scare up the ghosts of D.C. past on the Haunted Washington Scavenger Hunt.
Sport & Nature Activities
6. Potomac River Cruises
Enjoy a scenic cruise on the Potomac River, offering stunning views of the D.C. skyline. Such companies as City Cruises and Capitol River Cruises offer different waterbound ways to see the city from a different perspective.
7. Bike Tours
Rent bikes and explore the city on two wheels, with many, many guided tours available. It’s an active and fun way to cover a lot of ground.
8. Georgetown Waterfront Park
Spend a day at Georgetown Waterfront Park! The picturesque setting is ideal for group gatherings, with countless activities to fill a whole day, from picnics and people-watching to kayaking.
9. National Zoo
Don’t just visit the National Zoo to see a wide range of animals, including the soon-to-arrive giant pandas Bao Li and Qing Bao. Intrepid adventurers can learn so much more about the animals on our Wild Wildlife Scavenger Hunt, or solve puzzles and stop a deadly plot on the Murder Mystery Mayhem Scavenger Hunt.
10. Hiking in Rock Creek Park
Enjoy nature with a group hike in Rock Creek Park, which offers miles of trails and beautiful scenery, for a peaceful escape within the city.
11. U.S. National Arboretum
Wander through the U.S. National Arboretum, featuring diverse plant collections and the iconic National Capitol Columns. Perfect for nature lovers and shutterbugs.
Food & Drink Activities
12. Union Market
Discover Union Market, a bustling food hall with diverse culinary options and local goods. Like the museums, you can either explore Union Market with your group on-foot or up the ante for a little friendly competition with a Union Market Food Scavenger Hunt. Answer fun, tricky questions in this foodie paradise while everyone in your group sniffs out snacks they’ll love. Book this one-of-a-kind food tour for a private group activity (perfect for parties and team building events) or sign up for a public game.
13. Eastern Market
Over on Capitol Hill, visit Eastern Market for a vibrant atmosphere with local vendors, fresh produce, and unique crafts. It’s a fun spot for shopping and tasting local foods.
Let Watson Adventures host your next group activity in D.C.!
Looking for more ways to explore the District year-round? Explore dozens of unique Washington, D.C., scavenger hunts from Watson Adventures.