Walter Reed NMMC – Updated 2022
In the City, Literally
MD Burbs
VA Burbs
Day Trips
Kids
Concerts & Shows
Sports
Resources
Map
So you found out you’re going to be stationed at one of the 10 (!!!) military bases around the DC area. Yes, there is traffic (always). Yes, it’s a sprawling metropolis with a LOT of people (and tourists). Yes, it’s political (ughhhh). Yes, it is expensive ($$$$$). But there is SO much more to DC and it’s an absolutely amazing place to be stationed! If you are not already, I hope this guide gets you just a liiiiitle excited about some of the incredible things to do and see in the DMV (insider lingo for the DC-Maryland-Virginia area).
First: DC can be intimidating. And because it’s so flipping expensive, many military people live in the suburbs and tend to stick to adventuring close to home. I get it. But I cannot recommend enough actually getting INTO the city to explore. There is no place I’ve ever lived with so much culture and so much to do for FREE! I repeat: DO NOT BE SCARED TO ADVENTURE IN DC!
In the City, Literally
Lots of people talk about things to do “in DC.” As a native Washingtonian, nothing irks me more than when these adventures actually refer to MD or VA. From monuments big and little, to museums, to Very Important Buildings to green spaces to city hot spots, check out this stuff to do in DC, actually in DC.
MD Burbs
Maryland – or “America in Miniature” as some people call it – is chock full of state parks, beaches, mountains, farmlands, big cities, quaint towns, wetlands, cliffs, rivers, waterfalls and green spaces to explore.
VA Burbs
Virginia is hands-down my go-to for wineries, hikes, and mini mountains.
Day Trips
From Annapolis to Harper’s Ferry and beyond. Again, I repeat: Do Not Be Aftraid To Brave the Beltway!
Kids
Nearly all of the events, sights, and activities listed on this website can (and should!) be adapted for kids, but here are some children-specific highlights (including some beer paring fun for adults too!).
Concerts & Shows
We covered the Kennedy Center in the “must see” list above, but there are TONS of other options to see a show in DC to fit any price point and genre.
Sports
DC is known for it’s politics but is quickly gaining a reputation as a sports town with winning teams and beautiful venues.
Resources
DC is an absolute beast of a city and the ideas on this web page barely scratch the surface. Here are a few of my favorite sites to get adventure ideas. Enjoy!
Map
Even though the city was built on a clever grid system, getting around can be overwhelming! Here is a map to help get oriented. Click on the top left icon in order to filter.
Jelly Side Up 