12 Hidden Gems You Have To See In Washington DC Before You Die

The guidebooks to Washington DC will tell you all of the best known places in the area. But there is so much more than the more famous hot spots. Hidden in the district, you can find unknown museums, quiet parks, secluded historical places and much more. And you should. Visit these 12 best hidden gems in Washington DC.

1. Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens - 1550 Anacostia Ave NE, Washington, DC 20019

Enjoy the colors, sounds of nature and amazing wildlife at this beautiful aquatic garden. Visitors are encouraged to leisurely walk through the lily and lotus gardens and picnic in nature.

2. National Museum of the United States Navy - 736 Sicard St SE, Washington, DC 20374

Most people don’t even realize this museum exhibits but deep in the Navy Yard, it is a beautiful testament to the history of the Navy.

3. Renwick Gallery - 1661 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20006

The Renwick is one of the lesser known galleries in the District. It focuses on American craft and decorative arts from the 19th to 21st century. Don’t miss the ghost clock, one of the most popular exhibits.

4. National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception - 400 Michigan Ave NE, Washington, DC 20017

Most people head to the National Cathedral but the National Shine is just as gorgeous. It features 70 chapels each with its own unique artwork and style.

5. Bartholdi Fountain - 100 First St SW, Washington, DC 20534

The stunning Bartholdi Fountain was designed by Frédéric Auguste, the artist who also sculpted the Statue of Liberty. It sits in front of the United States Botanic Garden.

6. Titanic Memorial - Southwest Waterfront

Near the Potomac River in southwest DC, this memorial is in honor of the men who gave their lives so women and children could be saved on the Titanic.

7. Folger Shakespeare Library - 201 E Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003

Folger is the world’s largest Shakespearean collection. They also have major collections of Renaissance books and works of art and an in-house theater where works of Shakespeare are performed.

8. 9/11 Memorial at The Pentagon - 1 N Rotary Rd, Arlington, VA 22202

Dedicated to the 184 people who were killed at the Pentagon and on American Airlines Flight 77. Visit at sunset or in the evening to experience the full power of the memorial.

9. FDR Memorial - 1850 West Basin Dr SW, Washington, DC 20242

This memorial is a bit different than other memorials and monuments in the area. Just off the Tidal Basin, this is a sprawling monument pays tribute to various moments in Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s life and his most famous quotes.

10. Koshland Science Museum - 525 E St NW, Washington, DC 20001

This little known museum is only one floor but is packed with interactive exhibits dedicated to science and technology.

11. Woodrow Wilson House - 2340 S St NW, Washington, DC 20008

The Woodrow Willson House was home for the past President during the last year’s of his life. Today, it is a museum that houses many original artifacts and stories from Woodrow Wilson’s life.

12. Crispus Attucks Park - 23 U St NW, Washington, DC 20001

This hidden urban park is secluded and quiet and is a neighborhood favorite.

There is always something to do in the district. If you ever get bored, have one of these 11 once in a lifetime adventures you can only have in DC!