9 Insanely Fun Group Activities in DC You Must Try!

Washington, DC is a lively city bustling with rich culture and a vivacious ambience. So, if you are visiting it with a group, be ready for loads of fun and adventure. You can find plenty of exciting group activities in Washington, DC that will make for a memorable visit.

In this article, we have rounded up 9 fun group activities in DC to add to your itinerary. From food tours to tower climbs, we have jotted down all the best experiences. Let’s begin!

1. Experience DC’s Outstanding Theatre Scene

Let’s start with a leisurely and spectacular activity: attending a theatre show in Washington, DC. From historic and grand venues like the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and National Theatre to more intimate venues like Arena Stage and Woolly Mammoth Theatre, Washington, DC offers experiences for every audience. Each one of these theatres is known for its outstanding productions – whether it’s a cutting-edge drama or the world premiere of a joyous musical.

If you love Broadways shows, Washington, DC’s theatre scene is sure to impress. Just be sure to check out the timings of the upcoming shows based on your itinerary. Also book your seats in advance, especially for groups, since they fill up quickly.

No surprise that in a city of over 100 free things to do, you can also attend no-cost shows. Some of the city’s top venues, like the Kennedy Center with its popular Millennium Stage, offer opportunities to enjoy performances for free. You can also find these events happening throughout various neighborhoods in the city.

2. Climb the Towers & Explore the Grounds of the Washington National Cathedral

Visiting the Washington National Cathedral is already an amazing group activity, but what if you could also go on an adventurous climb through hidden stairwells, past beautiful stained glass, and unique gargoyles, leading to sweeping views from one of DC’s highest points?

Well, you can! The cathedral offers several tower climbs that your group can book in advance to bring your DC experience to new heights.

After the thrill, spend time strolling the 57 acres of grounds designed by Frederick Law Olmsted Jr. The cathedral’s grounds are famous for the medieval-style Bishop’s Garden, stone walls, old pathways, and a 13th-century Norman arch. If you want to learn more about the history, guided tours are available for groups.

3.Ghost Tour of Washington, DC

For a chilling experience in Washington, DC, nothing beats a ghost tour! Uncover haunted sites and hear spine-chilling tales throughout DC’s historic areas. You can wander through places like Lafayette Square outside the White House, Congressional Cemetery and Capitol Hill, where ghostly legends come to life.

To get a ghostly glimpse into DC’s oldest neighborhood, opt for DC By Foot’s Ghosts of Georgetown Tour, which takes you through dimly lit streets, sharing eerie stories of ghosts, mysteries, and scandals from the area’s haunted past. It’s a spine-tingling adventure perfect for any group looking for a unique and memorable outing.

4. Stunning Cruise on the Potomac & Anacostia Rivers

Looking for something more relaxing and peaceful? Look no further than a stunning river cruise on DC’s Potomac & Anacostia Rivers.

After an exciting itinerary exploring DC’s famous landmarks like the Jefferson Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Kennedy Center, an entertaining dining cruise is the perfect way to unwind and view the city from a new perspective. City Cruises operates brunch, lunch, and dinner cruises with varying levels of formality, offering plenty of options for your river excursion.

For a more exclusive experience, you can even charter a private yacht for your group departing from The Wharf or Georgetown waterfronts.

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5. Adventure in Rock Creek Park

Head into the lap of nature in DC’s Rock Creek Park. There are plenty of hiking and biking trails throughout this urban oasis for your group discover on your own or with a local guide. Companies like DC Design Tours offer guided hikes of the park for an informative approach to your exploration. There’s also the Rock Creek Horse Center located south of Military Road where your group can enjoy horse riding.

You can also participate in ranger-led programs which take you along the best routes while sharing hidden surprises, quirky anecdotes, and nature’s secrets. A day in Rock Creek Park can bring together a number of fun group activities in DC all in one area.

6. Food Tour to Taste Local Flavors

Guided food tours are an ideal way to explore DC’s neighbourhoods while sampling the globally inspired cuisine that defines DC’s food scene. These walking tours take you to the best restaurants and local favorites in areas like Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, U Street NW, and more.

Some of the top companies offering food tours are DC Metro Food Tours, Mangia DC Food Tours, and Blue Fern Travel. Be sure to book in advance to ensure your group’s activity is reserved allowing the companies to prepare a memorable, flavor-filled day for you.

7. Workshop at ARTECHOUSE

If you are looking for unique gropu activities in DC, book a private event or workshop at ARTECHOUSE. This 15,000-square-foot art space combines art, technology, and immersive experiences.

ARTECHOUSE features rotating exhibits with themes focused on technology, all aimed at supporting groundbreaking experiential art. Whether surrounded by limitless butterflies, cherry blossoms, or exploring the universe and ocean depths, you’ll be wowed by the stunning visuals.

8. Ice Skate in DC

Visiting DC during the winter? Ice skating can be a fun addition to your itinerary. There are plenty of ice-skating rinks in DC that your group can visit, like National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink, Washington Harbour Ice Rink, The Wharf Ice Rink, and Canal Park Ice Rink.

All the rinks offer skate rentals and some locations, like Georgetown’s Washington Harbour, offer lessons for kids ages 3 and older, as well as adults. We would suggest you purchase the tickets in advance and avoid weekends if you can so it’s not too crowded as this is a favourite activity for visitors and locals alike.

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9. Bike Tour of Monuments and Memorials

Photo Credit: Thorsten Freimuth

When in the U.S. capital, a tour of the monuments and memorials is a must-do, and you can make it one of the best group activities in DC by opting for a bike tour. Book a private tour and cycle along America’s front yard, the National Mall. You’ll roll past iconic sites like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Capitol Building all while learning fun facts about each historical gem.

Concluding Thoughts

If you love this tour, there’s plenty more to experience by bike in DC. Guided tours are offered for areas like Capitol Hill and even a tour from DC to George Washington’s Mount Vermon in Virginia. The tours usually last for about 3 hours, giving enough time for everyone to test their physical strength and learn more about U.S. history.

Group Activities in Washington, DC FAQs

What are some famous places for indoor group events in DC?

You can organize some of the best indoor group events in DC at:

• International Spy Museum for Adventure
• Pinstripes for Bocce & Bowling
• ARTECHOUSE for Immersive Art Experience
• Kraken Axes for Axe Throwing

Can I book private group activities in Washington, DC?

Yes, many tour operators and venues offer private group options. You can customize the experience based on your group’s preferences. Just make sure you contact the organizers in advance to discuss availability and specific arrangements. Yes, many tour operators and venues offer private group options. You can customize the experience based on your group’s preferences. Just make sure you contact the organizers in advance to discuss availability and specific arrangements.

Is transportation provided for group activities in Washington, DC?

Some tour packages include transportation, while others require participants to arrange their own. Verify transportation details with the organizers and plan accordingly, especially for larger groups.

Tboacademy Team