Things to do in Washington D.C.

Washington, D.C. offers plenty of sustainable and eco-friendly activities for environmentally-conscious visitors. Whether you're interested in nature, green architecture, or sustainable dining, the city has a lot to offer:

1. Biking Around the National Mall

D.C. is a bike-friendly city with plenty of bike lanes and paths, especially around the National Mall. You can rent a bike through Capital Bikeshare and explore iconic monuments like the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and U.S. Capitol while enjoying a sustainable mode of transportation.

2. Rock Creek Park

This massive urban park is a green oasis in the heart of D.C., offering hiking, biking, and bird-watching opportunities. With miles of trails, historic sites, and peaceful streams, it’s perfect for nature lovers. The park is also a hub for conservation and biodiversity efforts.

3. The United States Botanic Garden

Located near the Capitol, this garden is a lovely spot to visit for eco-friendly enthusiasts. The garden promotes sustainable gardening practices, including native plantings, water conservation methods, and environmentally friendly landscaping techniques. You can also learn about the role plants play in addressing climate change.

4. National Arboretum

A 446-acre space filled with tree collections, bonsai trees, and garden landscapes, the National Arboretum is a great place for sustainable activities like bird watching, walking, or simply enjoying the flora. It promotes conservation and environmental education while offering free access to visitors.

5. Eco-Friendly Shopping at Eastern Market

Eastern Market is one of D.C.’s oldest farmers’ markets, offering local, organic produce, handcrafted goods, and sustainable products. It’s a fantastic place to shop for fresh food and eco-friendly crafts while supporting local vendors and artisans.

6. Sustainable Dining at Green Restaurants

D.C. is home to many restaurants focused on sustainability:

• Founding Farmers : Known for its commitment to sustainable farming practices, this popular spot offers locally-sourced, seasonal dishes.
• The Green Pig Bistro : A restaurant focused on sustainable, organic ingredients and offering dishes made from locally-sourced produce and meats.
• Equinox Restaurant : Known for using seasonal, sustainable ingredients, this restaurant is perfect for eco-conscious diners.

7. Eco-Friendly Transportation

For getting around the city, D.C. has an excellent public transportation system, including the Metro , buses, and the DC Circulator , which are all more sustainable than driving. Additionally, the Capital Bikeshare program and electric scooter rentals are great alternatives for reducing your carbon footprint while exploring the city.

8. National Museum of American History – Sustainable Exhibits

The museum has hosted exhibits focusing on sustainability, including the history of environmental movements in America and innovations in green technology. You can explore the ongoing efforts to combat climate change and promote sustainability across various industries.

9. Kayaking and Canoeing on the Potomac River

Explore D.C. from the water with a kayaking or canoeing trip along the Potomac River. Rentals are available at The Wharf and Key Bridge Boathouse , where you can enjoy paddling with a low environmental impact while taking in views of the monuments and nature.

10. Visit the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

The Hirshhorn Museum offers not only modern art exhibitions but also an outdoor sculpture garden, which showcases environmentally-conscious art installations. The museum often features works that engage with themes of nature, sustainability, and climate change.