Fall Foliage, Beautiful Art, Theatre Week Extravaganza in DC
As the vibrant hues of summer fade, Washington, D.C., transforms into a picturesque canvas of autumnal splendor. The nation’s capital, renowned for its rich history and monumental landmarks, takes on a new charm during the fall season. The crisp air invigorates the senses, and the city is awash with brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating a stunning backdrop for an array of cultural festivities. From the breathtaking fall foliage to captivating art exhibitions and an extravaganza of theater performances, Washington, D.C., in the fall offers a unique and enchanting experience for both locals and visitors. Whether you’re a history buff, an art enthusiast, or a lover of the performing arts, the city’s fall offerings promise to captivate and inspire.
Join us as we explore the magic of D.C. in the fall, where every corner holds a promise of beauty, culture, and unforgettable experiences.
Must Read: 48 Hours in Washington, D.C. | Travel and Food Guide
Visit the U.S. National Arboretum
Nestled in Northeast DC, only two miles from the U.S. Capitol, the National Arboretum offers a serene escape within the city year-round. However, the fall season accentuates its beauty with a striking contrast between the sandstone Corinthian Columns, formerly part of the U.S. Capitol, and the colorful foliage of the surrounding trees. This makes autumn an especially stunning time to explore this living museum of trees and plants.
Marvel at fall foliage at a local park
Explore the numerous free parks, gardens, and outdoor spaces throughout the DC area for a scenic stroll or bike ride. You can visit the expansive Rock Creek Park, which spans over 2,000 acres, or admire the Capitol Columns at the picturesque U.S. National Arboretum, among many other beautiful locations.
The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NWMA)- Running Till January 12, 2025
The National Museum of Women in the Arts (NMWA) is hosting a solo exhibition by the renowned multidisciplinary artist Suchitra Mattai. Titled “Myth from Matter,” this exhibition will showcase around 40 mixed-media pieces and large-scale textile installations that delve into themes of memory, myth, and visual culture as a means to challenge colonial and patriarchal narratives. Mattai’s work, which incorporates collage, painting, textiles, and sculpture, combines vintage and modern materials such as found tapestries, photographs, jewelry, thread, paint, and fabrics. These elements come together in both three-dimensional and two-dimensional works that explore concepts of identity and belonging. The exhibition also brings to light the obscured histories of people like Mattai’s ancestors, who were brought to Guyana as indentured laborers from India during British colonial rule.
Theatre Week Extravaganza – Running Till Oct. 13
Celebrate the theater season in the Washington, DC region with Theatre Washington’s weeks-long promotion, offering $20, $40, and $60 tickets to a variety of anticipated productions across the DMV area. This event features an array of performances, including musicals, dramas, comedies, and theater for young audiences. Besides discounted tickets, Theatre Week also offers special events (most of which are free) that aim to entertain, educate, and inspire, such as the free Kickoff Fest. Don’t miss out—plan your stay and book a hotel today.
Also Read: The Sustainable Travel Guide to Washington, DC
Mount Vernon Fall Wine Festival and Sunset Tour – Oct. 4-6
George Washington’s Mount Vernon is particularly picturesque in the fall, making it the perfect time for the estate’s special wine celebration followed by a sunset tour. Visitors can relax on the east lawn with a blanket, enjoying Virginia wines while taking in views of the Potomac River. For a delightful pairing, fruit and cheese boxes can be purchased in advance.
Off the Mall Tours
As DC’s Jazz Festival approaches in November, delve into the rich history and culture of the nation’s capital. “Ellington to Langston: The Jazz Era in DC” takes you on a journey through a period when the U Street neighborhood blossomed into a vibrant jazz hub and a cradle of black intellectualism. Known as “Black Broadway,” the U Street corridor was a hotspot where jazz legends performed at numerous clubs and theaters, mingling with influential writers and thinkers like Langston Hughes, Zora Neale Hurston, and Alain Locke.
Look skyward at the National Air and Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
Gather the family for an exceptional museum outing this fall at the National Air & Space Museum’s Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center. This extensive museum features two large hangars—the Boeing Aviation Hangar and the James S. McDonnell Space Hangar—filled with a remarkable collection of aircraft and spacecraft. Highlights include the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird, a Concorde, and the space shuttle Discovery.
Explore the Charming Neighborhood of Georgetown
Walk iconic cobblestone streets and take in the charm of Georgetown. Bask in the autumn air at the gardens of Tudor Place, the historic estate with close ties to America’s first First Family. For lunch, choose from the French offerings at Brasserie Liberté, the authentic Italian dishes at Filomena or the waterfront seafood at Tony & Joe’s. Wrap up the afternoon with craft cocktails and scenic views from the Graham Rooftop Bar.
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