DCLovesGroups

06/01/2026

This week, the US National Archives is celebrating the birth of America with the Spirit of Independence Festival. From June 4 to June 6, visitors can enjoy a variety of free daytime activities and programs, including historical exhibits, live performances, and family-friendly events in a vibrant atmosphere. Online registration is encouraged, and visitors who reserve free daytime tickets online will also receive complimentary access to the National Archives Museum. This event will take place over two blocks on Constitution Avenue, which may result in road closures affecting 6th, 7th and 9th Streets. Come connect your groups with history in a meaningful way!
https://dc250.us/events/spirit-of-independence-festival-national-archives

National Archives Foundation

05/29/2026

After nine months of renovation, beloved Washington, DC dining staple, Ben's Chili Bowl, reopened on May 1st. This iconic establishment has been a cornerstone of the U Street corridor since 1958, and was an anchor during the Civil Rights Movement. Virginia Ali still welcomes guests and celebrities from around the world, as showcased on its walls and outside mural. Groups are welcome and can enjoy meal packages, as well as a historic video to watch while dining on their signature Half-Smoke, burgers and chili.
https://washington.org/find-dc-listings/bens-chili-bowl

Celebrities, locals and tourists alike have flocked to Ben's Chili Bowl for over 62 years for its flavorful and authentic food, family-friendly atmosphere and rich history. Family-owned and operated, you'll probably see the family behind the counter at Ben's original location on U Street.

05/28/2026

Check out where DC comes to play in Navy Yard!
Nationals Park: This 44,000-seat stadium is home to the 2019 World Series champions. Your group can also take a stadium tour with opportunities to have batting practice and race along with fan-favorite Racing Presidents.
Silver Diner Ballpark: Across the street from Nationals Park, this establishment offers breakfast, lunch and dinner menus specifically designed for bus tour groups and can accommodate up to 200 guests.
Rubell Museum: Housed in a reimagined historic school building, this dynamic space has rotating exhibitions from the Rubell family’s internationally recognized contemporary art collection and offers educational programming.
RASA Ballpark: This fast-casual restaurant showcases the vibrant colors and flavors of India and offers boxed meals to go.
The Yards Park: A public space next to the Anacostia Riverwalk Trail, Yards Park features outdoor rooms, water features and a dynamic bridge. It is the location of annual and special events, including a summer concert series.
Bluejacket: This brewery and restaurant is a cornerstone of DC’s thriving craft beverage scene, where small-batch beers are brewed on-site in a former military warehouse.
Audi Field: Home to soccer’s DC United and Washington Spirit as well as the UFL’s DC Defenders, this sports and entertainment venue gets groups close to the action and hosts major concerts and large-scale festivals.
District Winery: Combine dining with waterfront views at DC’s first urban winery that offers house-made vino, craft cocktails and small plates.
🔗Explore: https://washington.org/dc-neighborhoods/navy-yard

05/27/2026

Ready for an unforgettable adventure in the heart of American history? Our 3-day itinerary in Washington, DC is packed with iconic landmarks, immersive experiences, and inspiring narratives that will leave your group craving more! From exploring the National Mall to diving deep into the stories of our nation's past, each day offers a perfect blend of education and excitement. Highlights include the DAR Museum and George Washington's Mount Vernon, dining at the Old Ebbitt Grill or Eastern Market, and nighttime entertainment at Ford's Theatre and The National Theatre DC. Don't miss out on the opportunity to create lasting memories with your group in this vibrant city!
https://dc250.us/experiences/3-day-american-history-itinerary-washington-dc

There’s no better place to celebrate America’s 250th birthday than Washington, DC. In the itinerary below, we present experiences focused on the nation’s founding, construction of government and building of a national identity: the story of the American people. Whether you plan to visit the na...

05/25/2026

Celebrate National Wine Day at Washington, DC’s first winery – District Winery! This venue is ideal for large gatherings, offering wine tours, tastings, and delicious meals with stunning views of the Anacostia River. Enjoy seasonal cuisine in a relaxed waterfront setting in Navy Yard. Their private Portrait Room accommodates 40 guests for wine pairings, plated dinners, or family-style dining. Reserve your spot today for a dining experience and/or group tasting at this charming urban winery.
https://washington.org/find-dc-listings/district-winery

District Winery is a boutique winery in Navy Yard where good wine, good food and good times come together. Join us in the Tasting Room for small plates, wine tastings (guided or self-guided), tours and wine classes—whether you're a longtime wine lover or just curious to try something new. We also ...

05/22/2026

Exciting news! The Smithsonian Institution Building, known as "the Castle," reopens today to the public through Labor Day 2026, featuring a new visitor center, café, and shop. As part of the America 250 celebrations, a special exhibit titled “American Aspirations” will run from June 2 to July 26, showcasing cherished objects that reflect the nation's history. Don't miss the chance to give your groups an inspiring experience at this iconic destination.
https://www.si.edu/museums/smithsonian-institution-building

Completed in 1855, the Castle is our signature building. The Castle closed Wednesday, Feb. 1, 2023, for its first major renovation in more than 50 years. While the Castle is closed, you can still plan your Smithsonian visit at our Virtual Visitor Center and explore the Castle online.The Castle will....

05/20/2026

Salute active-duty military personnel and veterans during Memorial Day weekend in the nation's capital. Washington, DC event highlights include the "Rolling to Remember" honor motorcycle ride and the Memorial Day concert on the U.S. Capitol's West Lawn on Sunday, May 24. The parade on Monday will feature 5,000 participants from all 50 states, celebrating America's 250th anniversary with a moving timeline of military history. The National Mall and Memorial Parks will have expanded programming, with its many monuments and memorials dedicated to honoring America's military and their families' sacrifice across wars and conflicts.
https://washington.org/visit-dc/things-to-do-memorial-day-weekend-washington-dc/

Pay tribute to America’s heroes and celebrate the start of summer this Memorial Day weekend. There’s no better place to spend the holiday than Washington, DC.

05/18/2026

Happy ! Museums play a vital role in preserving heritage and educating communities. Here in Washington, DC, we have around 100 museums! In addition to the 17 popular Smithsonian museums and the Smithsonian’s National Zoo and Conservation Biology Institute, we offer unique attractions like Planet Word Museum, the International Spy Museum and The Phillips Collection. We also have historic home museums such as Tudor Place Historic House & Garden and President Lincoln's Cottage. Other distinctive offerings include The Mansion on O & O Street Museum, the National Museum of Women in the Arts and the National Building Museum. Best of all, most of these museums are free, making DC the Capital of Free Museums! 😊 What’s your favorite museum to visit in DC?
https://washington.org/visit-dc/headliner/free-museums

Book your next vacation to the nation’s capital and visit these only-in-the-District museums, free of charge As you return to traveling this year, Washington, DC should be at the very top of your list. The nation’s capital offers more than 100 free things to do, but it should come as no surpris...

05/15/2026