Blog (Our Winter Guide to Washington, DC)

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Thursday, 22, January 2026

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The Dupont Circle

Our Winter Guide to Washington, DC

Planning a winter escape to Washington, DC? While the capital is celebrated year-round for its world-class museums, dynamic dining scene, and storied neighborhoods, winter offers a quieter, more atmospheric way to experience the city. From cultural celebrations to cozy culinary moments, here’s our insider guide to the best things to do in Washington, DC this winter.

A serene winter scene of the U.S. Capitol, with the surrounding neighborhood streets and trees heavily laden with fresh snow.

Bill Perry on Adobe Stock

A vibrant Chinese New Year parade in DC’s Chinatown featuring traditional lion dancers

Ring in the Lunar New Year in Chinatown

Celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Horse at the annual Chinese Lunar New Year Parade, hosted by the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association of Washington, DC in partnership with the DC Mayor’s Office.

On Sunday, February 22 at 2:00 PM, the streets of Chinatown will fill with revelers, cultural performers, and community groups for a vibrant afternoon parade. Arrive early to enjoy a meal at one of the neighborhood’s beloved restaurants, then claim a curbside spot along the route. The celebration culminates in a spectacular firecracker finale in the middle of H Street.

A lively winter scene at a DC ice rink featuring kids skating in the front and people of all ages gliding across the ice with views of the city in the background.

Lace Up Your Ice Skates

Few winter experiences feel as quintessentially DC as skating outdoors. Glide beneath towering sculptures at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink, where the museum’s famed garden transforms into a picturesque rink each winter. For a waterfront backdrop, head to Georgetown Waterfront Park, or make your way to The Wharf, where skating pairs perfectly with river views and après-skate bites nearby.

A snowy winter scene featuring two people on a bench facing a frozen lake

Explore Tregaron Conservancy

Tucked away in Northwest DC, Tregaron Conservancy is one of the city’s most peaceful hidden gems. Spanning 13 acres of meadows, gardens, woodlands, and a serene lily pond, the conservancy offers a welcome pause from the city’s bustle. Winter walks here feel especially tranquil, with quiet trails and historic scenery ideal for reflection or a leisurely afternoon outdoors.

Shoppers admiring colorful flower arrangements and fresh food displays at the indoor Eastern Market, capturing the lively community atmosphere of a weekend market day.

Eat Your Way Through an Indoor Food Market

Winter is the perfect time to explore Washington’s indoor food halls. Union Market remains a go-to for global flavors, local makers, and creative pop-ups, while nearby La Cosecha brings together Latin American restaurants, cafés, and artisan shops under one roof. For a more traditional market experience, Eastern Market offers historic charm, fresh produce, and handmade goods—perfect for browsing on a chilly afternoon.

The Caps Campfire s’mores trailer glowing at night at The Wharf,

Indulge in S’mores at The Wharf

A winter favorite returns with a new twist. The Wharf’s beloved s’mores experience has transformed into Caps Campfire, where a cozy firepit and trailer serve everything you need to build the perfect treat.

S’mores are $5 each or four for $17, with seasonal specialty beverages available for $4.75 and water for $2. Marshmallows, chocolate, graham crackers, roasting sticks, and a wood-burning fire are all provided. Please note: credit and debit cards only. A portion of proceeds benefits charities in Southwest DC, making this indulgence even sweeter.

Vibrant scene at a Capitals hockey game with a sea of fans in red 'Rock the Red' gear celebrating a scoring play with arms raised and cheers.

Catch a Washington Capitals Game

Winter sports season is in full swing, and there’s nothing quite like the energy of a hometown game. Head to Capital One Arena to cheer on the Washington Capitals. Whether you’re a devoted fan or simply along for the atmosphere, a night at the arena is a classic DC winter outing.

A cozy group of friends enjoying seasonal cocktails and playing cards at Doyle Bar, creating a festive winter atmosphere in a dimly lit, sophisticated setting.

Discover the Den of Cards at Doyle

Warm up with a cocktail at Doyle Bar, where winter brings the return of the Den of Cards menu. This seasonal lineup is filled with festive, cold-weather libations, but one cocktail stands out above the rest: S’More Decks.

An elevated, adult nod to childhood holiday traditions, S’More Decks features boozy vanilla chia hot chocolate topped with house-made Maker’s Mark marshmallows. Cozy, indulgent, and undeniably playful, it’s the crown jewel of the winter menu and best enjoyed fireside with friends.

Side profile of a bright yellow Mercedes-Benz luxury car on the showroom floor at the Washington, D.C. Auto Show.

Browse the Washington Auto Show

Car enthusiasts and casual browsers alike will enjoy the Washington DC Auto Show, taking place January 23 through February 1 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center. Explore the latest models from top manufacturers, experience interactive exhibits, and see how innovation and design intersect on the showroom floor.

The bright, newly renovated Great Hall of the National Museum of Women in the Arts, featuring a grand white marble double staircase, classical columns, and an airy, sunlit hallway.

Discover the National Museum of Women in the Arts

Recently reopened after extensive renovations, the National Museum of Women in the Arts offers a compelling look at women’s contributions to the arts across centuries and continents. From painting and sculpture to contemporary installations, the museum’s refreshed galleries provide an inspiring indoor escape on colder days.

The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial sculpture in Washington, D.C., captured from a low angle against a vivid blue sky

Celebrate Black History Month

February in Washington, DC is rich with opportunities to honor Black history, culture, and achievement. Explore the storied Shaw neighborhood, once home to Duke Ellington, and stroll past the Howard Theatre’s Walk of Fame. Reflect at the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, where the 30-foot sculpture invites quiet contemplation. Throughout the month, Doyle Bar will host Tasting Tuesdays, featuring curated tastings of Black-owned spirits each week—an intimate, community-focused way to celebrate and support Black excellence in the spirits industry. For a deeper dive indoors, the National Museum of African American History and Culture and the National Portrait Gallery offer powerful exhibitions and stories year-round.

Plan Your Winter Escape

From seasonal celebrations to cozy culinary moments, winter in Washington, DC reveals a more intimate side of the city. Make The Dupont Circle your home base and explore the capital at your own pace with our Weekend in Washington offer, featuring 15% savings on our best available rate and a $50 food & beverage credit, perfect for lingering dinners, crafted cocktails, and discovering what makes winter in DC so special.