Winter in Washington DC feels like stepping into a storybook—snow dusts the monuments, lights twinkle along every avenue, and a warm cup of cocoa becomes your best companion as you explore. If you think DC is just about politics and history, think again. Winter transforms the city into a magical wonderland brimming with both classic attractions and unexpected surprises. As part of our DC travel tips, let’s dive into what you can do in Washington DC in Winter.
Getting to Washington DC in Winter
Before diving into DC’s winter wonderland, let’s talk about getting there. Washington is served by three major airports—Dulles International, Reagan National, and Baltimore-Washington International—and is also well-connected by Amtrak, with Union Station being a hub for travelers from the East Coast and beyond. If you’re traveling from Dulles Airport to Washington DC, for example, you can take the newly extended Silver Line Metro straight into the city. On my last trip, I marveled at how convenient and affordable it was, especially compared to battling winter traffic. For those with heavy luggage (or an inclination to avoid public transit), rideshare or shuttles offer a stress-free alternative to get you into the heart of the action. However you arrive, the city’s frosty charm makes the journey worthwhile.
Monuments by Moonlight
There’s something surreal about seeing DC’s iconic monuments under a winter moon. Blanketed in snow or sparkling with frost, the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument take on a serene beauty. On a brisk evening last December, I joined a guided tour and discovered the quieter side of the city.
The stillness of the Reflecting Pool, combined with the glow of the illuminated structures, made me feel like I’d stepped into a black-and-white photograph from another era. The downside? Staying warm! Bundle up with thermal gloves and a scarf, or you’ll be frozen in awe—literally.
Watch this video for some tips if you’re planning to visit DC during December:
Ice Skating in the Heart of the City
From the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden to The Wharf, ice skating is a quintessential winter activity in Washington DC. My personal favorite is the rink at The Wharf. Skating under a canopy of twinkling lights while the Potomac River glistens nearby is nothing short of magical.
I’ll admit, I’m no Michelle Kwan—last time, I spent more time clinging to the edge than gracefully gliding. But there’s a charm in laughing at your own wobbles, especially when surrounded by families and couples making similar memories. Just beware: the lines can be long on weekends, so plan ahead or go midweek for a smoother experience.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
Winter Village at CityCenterDC
When it comes to combining luxury and festivity, CityCenterDC nails it. Its Winter Village features stunning light displays, pop-up shops, and festive art installations. Last year, I found myself mesmerized by the suspended “Dream Closet” installation—a cascading display of illuminated ornaments that felt like walking under a winter sky. The only downside? The temptation to overspend is real. I walked away with a pair of gloves that cost more than my monthly coffee budget, but hey, they’ve kept my hands warm ever since.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
Hidden Gems: Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in Winter
While summer draws visitors to Kenilworth for its vibrant lotus blooms, winter offers a quieter, almost mystical allure. The marshes and boardwalks take on a stark beauty, with frosty reeds and a stillness that feels worlds away from city life.
I ventured there on a chilly morning, and it was like stepping into a frozen painting. The only sounds were my boots crunching on the frost and the distant calls of birds. Pro tip: bring a thermos of hot tea and a good pair of waterproof boots—it’s a trek worth making.
Smithsonian Museums: Cozy Indoor Escapes
When the chill becomes too much, the Smithsonian Museums are your best friends. From the awe-inspiring National Air and Space Museum to the thought-provoking National Museum of African American History and Culture, there’s no shortage of warm, engaging spaces to explore.
I could spend hours wandering these halls, but my favorite winter visit was to the American History Museum. Seeing Dorothy’s ruby slippers felt like a warm hug on a cold day. The best part? Admission is free, leaving you with more cash to spend on those holiday-themed cupcakes outside.
Watch this video to learn more:
Dining and Warming Up
Finally, no winter trip to DC is complete without sampling its food scene. Founding Farmers remains a classic for hearty, farm-to-table comfort food. On my last visit, I indulged in their chicken pot pie, which was essentially a hug in a bowl. For those seeking something sweet, the hot chocolate at The Chocolate House on 18th Street is legendary. One sip, and you’ll forget the frostbite on your nose.
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram