Washington Summer Tourism Heats Up

Enjoy free festivals, new hotels, attractions, performances, dining, sports events, exhibitions, and more.

The official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, Destination DC, presents all the fun ways to welcome this summer and offers reasons to explore Washington, D.C. this summer. Visit to plan your trip.

What's New in the City:

Over the next few months, enjoy numerous free celebrations including the renowned Smithsonian Folklife Festival, the iconic Fourth of July fireworks display, and more. New hotels include Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill; exhibitions include “Africa: The History of Black Futures” at the National Museum of African American History and Culture, “Philip Guston Now” at the National Gallery of Art, and others. Recently, the National Gallery of Art was named the most visited art museum in the United States. Washington, D.C. will also host the MLS All-Star Week and All-Star Game on July 19.

Plan Your Vacation:

Washington shines in summer. Visitors and locals alike can discover the outdoor beauty of Washington, D.C. by hiking in Rock Creek Park and enjoying water sports at multiple waterfronts. Explore D.C. through hundreds of free attractions, or indulge in luxurious cuisine at numerous eclectic Michelin-starred restaurants, rooftop bars, and outdoor beer gardens. Summer also brings celebratory moments like Capital Pride Month, National Dog Month, and the D.C. Jazz Festival.

“Summer is the best season to explore Washington, D.C.’s vibrant waterfronts, discover landmark-view rooftop restaurants, watch sports events or enjoy outdoor concerts, and experience the world’s best monuments and museums,” said Elliott L. Ferguson II, President and CEO of Destination DC. “There are hundreds of free attractions and activities to choose from, and when planning a family trip to Washington, D.C., you’ll find great value.”

New and Recently Opened Hotels:

Royal Sonesta Capitol Hill (July 2023): The second Royal Sonesta hotel in Washington, D.C. will open near Union Station. As part of a mixed-use complex, this modern 274-room hotel features an additional rooftop conference center with landmark views.

Washington Marriott Capitol Hill (January 2023): This new 235-room hotel features a glass-enclosed two-story lobby, a grand ballroom, outdoor terrace, on-site restaurant, rooftop bar and event space, fitness facilities, and the Marriott M Club.

The Morrow (November 2022): A Hilton Curio Collection hotel, the Morrow is a 203-room upscale Hilton brand that includes outdoor event space, indoor/outdoor dining, and a rooftop with city views.

Pendry Washington D.C. – The Wharf (October 2022): This multifaceted hotel features 131 waterfront rooms and 34 suites. It offers three dining and bar concepts, a Pendry Spa, and 5,000 square feet of indoor/outdoor event and meeting space.

Summer Hotel Promotions:

Hilton Washington D.C. National Mall: Book a room and get breakfast (valid through December 2023)

Kimpton Banneker Hotel: Parking package (valid through September 2023)

Washington Hotel: $1 commemorative breakfast (valid through December 2023)

Capitol Hill Hotel: “Take Me Out to the Ball Game” package (valid through September 2023)

Fairmont Washington D.C., Georgetown: Free parking, breakfast for two, and WiFi package

The Watergate Hotel: “Pedal and Picnic” promotion (through September 2023)

Don't-Miss Festivals and Events:

Giant National Capital Barbecue Battle

Pennsylvania Avenue NW | June 24-25, 2023

The region’s favorite barbecue event celebrates its 31st anniversary.

Smithsonian Folklife Festival

National Mall | June 28 – July 4 and July 6-9

A summer tradition focusing on the Ozarks region and U.S. religious communities and traditions.

Capital Fringe Fest

July 13-16 and July 20-23

Performances from local creators including improv theater, punk rock, and vibrant dance shows.

MLS All-Star Week

Audi Field | July 15-19

The MLS All-Stars will take on Premier League club Arsenal on July 19.

Citi Open

Rock Creek Park Tennis Center | July 29 – August 6

Professional tennis players compete in one of Washington’s biggest sporting events.

DC JazzFest

August 30 – September 3

The 19th annual DC JazzFest is a celebration of jazz with five days of concerts and over 100 performances.