While visiting the nation’s capital this November for the Ultimate DECA Power Trip, be sure to take advantage of the fantastic free museums, attractions and activities the city offers.
Here’s your quick guide to what to do in D.C. and Arlington while you’re in town:
1. National Mall Monuments & Memorials
Walk the iconic stretch and see some of the most popular memorials, great for both reflection and group photos.
- Jefferson Memorial - Located at the southern end of the National Mall, adjacent to the Tidal Basin in West Potomac Park
- Korean War Veterans Memorial - Located at Independence Avenue, SW + Daniel Chester French Drive, SW
- Lincoln Memorial - Located at the western end of the National Mall
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial - 1850 West Basin Drive, SW
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial - 5 Henry Bacon Drive, NW
- Washington Monument - 2 15th Street, NW
- World War II Memorial - 1750 Independence Avenue, SW
Many of these stops are included in the DECA After Dark: D.C. Night Tour on Saturday night and included with your registration.
2. Smithsonian Museums
Explore world-class museums with free admission, such as:
- National Museum of American History
- National Museum of Natural History
- National Air and Space Museum
- National Museum of African American History and Culture
- American Art Museum & Renwick Gallery
3. U.S. Capitol Grounds & Visitor Center
Visit the free exhibits in the Capitol Visitor Center and explore the historic grounds. Free tours are available if reserved in advance.
visitthecapitol.gov | 1st St SE, Washington, DC 20515
4. The White House Tour
Tours of The White House include the public rooms in the East Wing and the Residence, which include the Vermeil Room, the Library, the China Room, the Blue Room, Red Room, Green Room, the State Dining Room, and a view of the White House Kennedy Garden. White House tour requests should be made through your Member of Congress, which may be submitted 7 – 90 days in advance of the requested tour date. You may reach your Member of Congress through the United States Capitol Switchboard at 202-224-3121 (TTY: 202-225-1904), or online at congress.gov/members.
whitehouse.gov/visit | 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NWWashington, DC 20500
5. Smithsonian National Zoo
See giant pandas and hundreds of other animals. Admission is free, though timed-entry passes are recommended.
nationalzoo.si.edu | 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008
6. Tidal Basin Walk
Enjoy a scenic stroll around the water, with views of the Jefferson, FDR, and MLK Jr. Memorials.
20245 National Dr, Washington, DC 20024
7. The Wharf D.C.
Enjoy scenic waterfront views as you stroll along the boardwalk and take in over 80 shops and restaurants available.
wharfdc.com | 760 Maine Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024
8. Arlington National Cemetery
Witness the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and visit the gravesites of U.S. presidents, astronauts, and notable figures.
arlingtoncemetery.mil | 1 Memorial Ave, Fort Myer, VA 22211
9. Pentagon Memorial
A moving, outdoor tribute honoring the 184 lives lost on 9/11 at the Pentagon.
pentagonmemorial.org | 1 N Rotary Rd, Arlington, VA 22202
10. The Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream
Opening September 20, 2025, this is a place built for anyone who's ever wondered what it takes to make the most of their potential. At the American Dream Experience, you’ll explore interactive exhibits that connect big ideas to everyday life: education, health, entrepreneurship, and financial empowerment.
mcaad.org/exhibition | 1503 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC
We can't wait to see you in November for the Ultimate DECA Power Trip! Learn more about this conference and plan your trip to D.C. now at deca.org/power.
