With only-in-DC experiences, free attractions and a citywide collaboration of more than 85 partners, Washington, DC is kicking off its year-long commemoration of the nation’s 250th anniversary. No place tells America’s story as vividly as DC, the only place to see the Declaration of Independence and the best place to discover its impact. Destination DC, the city’s official destination marketing organization, announced an updated calendar of fun, free events and special exhibitions, interspersed with headline openings and reopenings, throughout the year. Begin planning your trip at a special website for the occasion: DC250.us.
“No matter when you visit Washington, DC in 2026, you’ll feel a part of the year-round commemoration for the nation’s 250th anniversary,” said Elliott L. Ferguson, II, president and CEO, Destination DC. “Explore the city’s vibrant local neighborhoods, discover its unique role as the nation’s capital and home to 700,000 residents and better understand all facets of our nation’s history in the city where stories come alive.”
Blockbuster openings and renovations add to the momentum in 2026, including an innovative museum underneath the Lincoln Memorial, the high-tech National Geographic Museum of Exploration, expansion of the National Air and Space Museum (all in July), African American Civil War Memorial Museum, the largest renovation in the 50-year history of the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, overhaul of George Washington’s Mount Vernon and a new concourse at Dulles International Airport. The Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream and National Archives Museum renovation also recently debuted. Three hotels are expected to open their doors in 2026: CitizenM Georgetown, Tempo by Hilton Downtown and the Hoya Hotel.
Major milestones include the 75th year of Arena Stage and 50th anniversaries of go-go music, the National Air and Space Museum and Art Museum of the Americas. The National Museum of African American History and Culture will mark its 10-year anniversary with an outdoor block party in September. The St. Regis celebrates 100 years and the Hyatt Regency on Capitol Hill celebrates 50.
Savor delicious deals during Restaurant Week, which takes place in the winter (Jan. 19-25) and summer. Taste the melting pot that is America; DC’s globally acclaimed chefs meld local and authentic international flavors. DC hotels offer thematic packages throughout 2026, underscoring the city’s value; DC’s theater community plans thematic programming; and long holiday weekends present even more reasons to stay and explore.
Source: Organisations & Operators - breakingtravelnews
