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10 Unique, Cool Things to Do in Washington DC

BY: Andy Seifert |May 30, 2018

Washington DC is known for its classical monuments and its collection of world-class Smithsonian museums. But what if you've done all those, and want to find some unique things to do in Washington DC? Can the Nation's Capital provide entertainment not made of marble?

Turns out, yes! Here are the top ten cool things to do in Washington DC:

1. Sip Champagne & Find 70 Secret Doors at the O Museum

Get an O Museum Champagne Tour deal here (starting at $18.50)

This 19th-century 100-room mansion—named a "hidden gem" by Washingtonian magazine—simply begs to be explored. Not only is the former FBI hideout now rife with pop-culture memorabilia, including the East Coast's largest private signed guitar collection (with guitars from Bob Dylan, Rolling Stones, Les Paul, and Bruce Springsteen), it has also 70 secret doorways leading to hidden paintings, sculptures, and more.

2. Sail Past Monuments...on a Pirate Ship

Get a Boomerang Pirate Ship deal here (starting at $16)

You've likely seen handsome sailboats and yachts on the Potomac. But maybe that's not your style, in which case, can we recommend a ride on a Boomerang Pirate Ship? This double-decker boat features a chest full of treasure, a bar if you'd like to grab a drink, and views of the nation's capital before you inevitably go and loot the National Archives.

3. Catch a Fly Ball at a Potomac Nationals Game

Get a Potomac Nationals deal here (starting at $8)

Head just outside the city to Woodbridge to see the Class A-Advanced affiliate of the Washington Nationals. A Potomac Nationals game draws fans eager to see the big league squad's future stars, plus you can usually grab a seat much closer to the game than at Nationals Park.

4. Take a Distillery Tour at Jos. A Mangus & Co

Get a distillery tour deal here (starting at $10.50)

Jos. A. Magnus & Co. isn't just another ho-hum whiskey manufacturer. The company dates back to 1892 and quickly became of the country's most-popular pre-Prohibition producers of whisky, gin, and other spirits. But the company had to shut down for Prohibition, and it wasn't until 2015 that the original founder's great-grandson decided to re-create those original recipes. Taste spirits nearly 100 years in the making on this tour.

5. Learn How to Sew at Laurianda Clothing Co.

Get a basic sewing class deal here (starting at $54)

What better spot to learn how to sew than at an actual clothing company? Laurianda Clothing Co. creates contemporary, playful women's clothing, including dresses and skirts. They call it "girly girl clothes for girly ladies." But when you learn the basic know-how and expert tips of sewing, you can craft your own clothes using whatever aesthetic you choose.

6. Step into History at the Woodrow Wilson House

Get a Woodrow Wilson House deal here (starting at $11.50)

Even if you don't know (or care to know) anything about former president Woodrow Wilson, you can't help but be charmed by his Georgian Revival mansion, complete with an extensive library, a grand staircase, and a garden-adjacent solarium. But while you're here, do learn a little about the 28th president, who retired here after leading the country into World War I and subsequently helping form the League of Nations.

7. Create Your Own Lotion at Koche

Get a lotion making workshop deal here (starting at $22)

Koche specializes in crafting all-natural, organic lotions that forgo the weird chemicals you often find in cosmetic products. Best yet, you get to create your own, customizing each body cream so that it features the most delightful smell you can conceive.

8. Express Yourself at Monet Gogh Sip

Get a BYOB Paint & Sip deal here (starting at $25)

Ever wanted to create your own, possibly better, version of Starry Night or Water Lilies? If you have, this BYOB paint and sip class from Monet Gogh Sip is where you should direct your easel. Ideal for a date with an artistically thoughtful friend, Monet Gogh Sip lets you unleash your creativtity while your peers encourage you and experts guide you. Plus, you can drink!

9. Ride in an Exotic Super Car at TSMP Exotics

Get a TSMP Exotics test car deal here (starting at $30)

If your search for cool things to do in Washington DC doesn't expand to nearby Laurel, you'll miss out on TSMP Exotics: Ultimate Test Drive at the race track in Laurel Park. Here you can strap into a Lamborghini or a Ferrari, then either take the wheel or ride-a-long with a experienced driver as you careen down the straightaways and handle the turns at a professional autocross track. Pair this with the sewing class for one insane afternoon.

10. Catch a Flick...at a Drive-In in the Valley

Get a Family Drive-In Theatre deal here (starting at $19)

One of the coolest things to do in Washington DC at night is...not exactly in Washington DC. It's the Family Drive-In Theatre out in the Shenandoah Valley, but it's well worth the drive. Opened in 1956, it's the place to find car speakers on poles and hear classic tunes from yesteryear. Oh, and to catch a new film.


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