Independence Day in DC: Your Guide to A Capitol Fourth
By Taameen Mohammad ••
With the Fourth of July approaching, D.C. is preparing for massive celebrations. News4’s Mark Segraves reports.
A Capitol Fourth, one of America's premiere birthday parties held on Congress' lawn, treats attendees to a free, live performances and a fireworks show in honor of Independence Day.
The celebration kicks off 8 p.m. on Wednesday, but crowds can begin filtering onto the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol at 3 p.m.
From navigating holiday Metro rush to dealing with the weather, here's everything to know about A Capitol Fourth.
Who's Performing?
John Stamos returns to host the 2018 celebration. The Beach Boys, Pentatonix, Andy Grammer, The Temptations and many more artists are set to perform. You can attend in-person or watch it on TV.
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There are so many free and cheap things to do around the District.
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The cherry blossoms won't be back until spring, but the Tidal Basin is a beautiful walk any time of year. Do a loop around the water and you'll see the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial and the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.
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You can bike, run or stroll through the lilies at Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens, where you'll spot marsh birds, lily pads and some gorgeous flowers. It's a National Park and free to visit.
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Summer and fall are outdoor movie season in D.C. Here's a roundup of the summer movies.
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Swing on the pier, attend an event stroll along the water or browse D.C.'s fish market at the waterfront development in Southwest.
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More than 400,000 former service men and women are laid to rest at Arlington National Cemetery. Any day of the year, the public is welcome to visit the site. President John F. Kennedy's grave is there, marked by an Eternal Flame. You can also visit the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and witness the ceremonial changing of the guards at least every hour.
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In the middle of the Potomac River, you’ll find a park that feels miles away from a city. Head to the middle and you’ll find one of D.C.’s less obvious monuments, the Teddy Roosevelt memorial.
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A number of senators, representatives and even the legendary first FBI director J. Edgar Hoover were buried in the cemetery.
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When it gets chilly outside, the U.S. Botanic Garden stays balmy and green. Explore a tropical rainforest, a reconstructed Jurassic landscape, rare and endangered species, orchids and more.
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Housed in a gorgeous building, the National Museum of Women in the Arts highlights the works of female artists. Usually, an adult ticket costs $10 (free if you’re under 18). On the first Sunday of each month, the museum hosts a community day and admission is free.
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The Freer|Sackler galleries display Asian art and artifacts. As with all Smithsonian museums, it's free to visit. The museum also hosts film screenings featuring classic and new movies.
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D.C.’s Union Market features a handful of places to eat, drink and shop. The hub includes more than 40 vendors and hosts events throughout the week. The market is open to the public from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. during the week and from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on weekends. It's closed on Mondays.
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From the Potomac River to 14th Street, you'll find monuments to America's greatest leaders and largest wars. The Washington Monument, which is closed for construction but still viewable from the outside, marks the eastern edge. Walk west and you'll find the epic World War II memorial, where you can snap a picture with the pillar representing your state. The D.C. War Memorial, somber Vietnam Veterans Memorial, haunting Korean War Veterans Memorial and some smaller monuments are found on either side of the Reflecting Pool. The imposing Lincoln Memorial towers over the western edge. You'll find other monuments circling the Tidal Basin, just south of the Reflecting Pool.
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Hang out and marvel at the towering columns at the National Building Museum's Great Hall. If you have children, the open grounds provide plenty of room for playtime.
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Situated near Dupont Circle, but a few blocks away from the rush of Connecticut Avenue, the curved Spanish Steps make for a perfect post-brunch walk.
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Celebrate and learn about the contributions of African Americans through artifacts, interactive exhibits and events at the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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D.C. can seriously accommodate beer lovers. You can find free tours at 3 Stars Brewing Company, DC Brau, Right Proper Brewing Company and Atlas Brew Works. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Retrace the steps of Nicholas Cage -- but don’t steal the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, Bill of Rights or any of the other historical documents. The museum is open daily and is free.
This not-so-secret corner of Rock Creek Park is where hundreds of pounds of stones that used to make up America's Capitol Building have been dumped. You can still see some intricate designs. It's near the Rock Creek Park Horse Center — hunt for the Capitol Ruins on Google Maps for an exact location. (Looking for fun stuff outside of the city? See our guides for Northern Virginia here and for Maryland here)
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Rangers offer free guided tours daily of the home of one of history’s most tireless activists. Frederick Douglass lived the last 17 years of his life at Cedar Hill, a now-historic D.C. home.
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This haunting and unique statue offers a place to honor the thousands of of men who lost their lives when the Titanic sank.
This lesser-known memorial outside the National Academy of Sciences honors Einstein and his greatest contributions to physics. Look down and you'll see the skies: the floor is doubles as a star map!
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Eastern Market (225 7th Street SE) is a farmer's market, bazaar and upscale food court all rolled into one. Inside, a number of restaurants sell crab cakes, groceries, freshly cut meats and more. Vendors outside sell unique soaps, clothing, decor and art. You'll find the market open Tuesdays through Sundays. On Sundays, a bustling flea market sets up on 7th Street SE. Across C street, Capitol Hill Books (657 C St. SE) is packed to the gills with literary treasures (and hilariously tongue-in-cheek signage).
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D.C. boasts a robust distillery scene, which one booze-maker said is because it’s the only city in America where you can make and serve alcohol in the same establishment. If you’re in Northeast, Jos. A Magnus & Co., Republic Restoratives and New Columbia Distillers offer free tours, usually on Saturdays. Check with the distillery before heading over.
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Stroll (or bike, if you’re comfortable in traffic) down Massachusetts Avenue from Woodley Park through Dupont Circle, and you’ll pass embassies from every continent. Try to guess the flags as you pass. Each May, they open their doors to the public for free.
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Museums suited to every interest line the National Mall — and all of the Smithsonians are free to visit. The Smithsonian Castle serves as the visitor's center. The Air and Space Museum showcases spacecraft from the Wright era to the space age. For art, check out the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the National Gallery of Art and the Freer Sackler gallery. History buffs will love the American History Museum, Natural History Museum, National Museum of the American Indian and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
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You’ve heard the tale: In 1804, Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton entered into a duel that ended in Hamilton’s death. Now, you can see the firearms for yourself among letters and portraits detailing the remarkable life of the former Secretary of the Treasury.
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The Basilica of the Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (400 Michigan Ave. NE) may be D.C.'s most underrated tourist spot. Right off the Brookland station on the Red Line sits one of the 10 largest churches in the world, according to the Basilica's website. If you visit, tour the outside and the lower crypt. But do not miss the upper church, where the ceilings are covered in intricate murals.
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No trip to D.C. is complete without a half-smoke, and the original is housed at Ben’s Chili Bowl. Adorned with a mural celebrating African-Americans legends including The Obamas, Dave Chappelle, Dick Gregory, Mayor Muriel Bowser, News4's own Jim Vance, Chuck Brown's daughter, Del. Eleanor Holmes Norton and Cora Masters Barry. Chili dogs start at $4.40; the Original Chili Half-Smoke is $5.95.
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From the Capitol's old Corinthian columns to photography classes to an azalea collection, the arboretum has more to see than just trees — and yes, it's free.
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D.C.'s Chinatown is small and always bustling. At the intersection of 7th and G streets Northwest, the Friendship Archway and decorated 6-way crossing make great photo opportunities. Stop and listen to the buskers playing music or singing throughout the neighborhood. If you're hunting for Asian flavors, Chinatown Express offers a $6.95 lunch special where you watch the chefs make food. Wok and Roll, China Boy, Penny Whisky and Reren Lamen & Bar are neighborhood favorites. If you like ramen, Daikaya is well-loved among locals and Bantam King serves up tasty bowls alongside fried chicken.
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Watch millions of dollars make their way through the printing press at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. Free, 40-minute tours are offered year round, but you’ll need a ticket from March 5 to Aug. 21.
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This church-turned-brilliantly colored art space hosts several free events a month (with cash bars, of course) and gallery viewings on Saturdays and Sundays. It was formerly called the Blind Whino.
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The Highlights Tour allows you to explore the details of the Cathedral's dramatic art and architecture with a guided tour tailored for first-time visitors. Reservations not required for individuals or families, and the tour is free with admission into the church. You can also look on from the outside, where you can see some very unique architectural flair.
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At the Anderson House, a free museum that focuses on all things related to the American Revolution, you'll find antique tapestries, sculptures, portraits and more.
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AFI Silver Theater has plenty of unique choices. The center has two stadium theaters and numerous events. If you’re looking for a movie that hasn’t been in theaters for a while, or a screening of a classic flick, this could be the place where you find it. Ticket prices vary.
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D.C.’s free zoo is one of the world’s best.
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With two locations open and another coming soon, one of D.C.'s favorite independent bookstore offers more than paperbacks and hardcovers. Many of the stores’ guest speaker events are free, but you can also stop by to pick up a new release or grab coffee and a snack at The Den coffeehouse and wine bar (Connecticut Avenue location only).
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You can scope out the architecture or, if you get there early, watch the judges hear a case. The Supreme Court does not offer guided walking tours, but you can visit public portions of the building.
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The Embassy of Canada Art Gallery is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and is free to the public. Murals, paintings and more with Canadian ties are on display. The gallery rotates its exhibits, so you’ll be able to visit twice and see different works.
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Whether you’re looking for breakfast, dinner or somewhere to see a show, H Street has plenty of options. You can head to Dangerously Delicious Pies for a delectable slice, Bullfrog Bagels for a New York-style bagel or Granville Moore’s for mussels and other pub-type food. There are performances to see at the Atlas Performing Arts Center and live shows at the Rock and Roll Hotel. On Sept. 15, 2018, the streets will be full for the H Street festival, the biggest neighborhood celebration in D.C.
If you have a plane-lover in your group, head to Gravelly Point for a picnic and skywatching.
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Contact your representative for a tour inside the Capitol, a massive complex connected by underground tunnels. The Supreme Court is nearby, and the neighborhood has colorful homes and the Folger Shakespeare Library, which says it features the world's largest Shakespeare collection, gardens, art and more. Admission is free, but shows are not.
D.C.'s natural oasis boasts hiking trails, picnic areas and more to explore. Space-lovers should make sure to check out the planetarium, which hosts programs on Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Stroll near the waterfront, sip coffee in some of D.C.'s favorite caffeine stops, window shop or just soak in the quaint architecture. Hoof it through the hilly Book Hill Park (1500-1600 blocks of Wisconsin Avenue NW) for incredible views.
D.C. is among the fittest cities in America, possibly because of the bounty of free workout classes. You can find lists of free workouts on Fitverse or The November Project.
There are dozens of talks daily on art, international politics, the environment, history and any other topic you can think of in the city. Most of them are hosted by museums, think tanks and nonprofits for free. CultureCapital.com curates a large list, and you can also check in with major organizations that cater to your interests, including the CATO Institute, Heritage Foundation, Brookings Institute and the Smithsonian.
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Capital Bikeshare Rentals start at $2 for an hour of rides, and new dockless bikeshare companies start at $1 per ride. Wear a helmet and cruise one of the city’s many bike lanes, or head over to Rock Creek Park for a dose of nature.
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Music lovers can go for the free daily performances, but anyone can enjoy the roof deck overlooking the Potomac River.
Free, one-hour walking tours are offered regularly Monday through Friday. With a valid, official ID card, you can sign up for a library card which allows you to access special reading rooms.
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Hit up two museums in one building at the National Portrait Gallery — home to the presidential portrait hall —and Smithsonian American Art Museum, which hosts treasures ranging from gorgeous landscape paintings to mesmerizing folk art.
How Do I Get There?
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Planners recommend taking the Metro due to traffic. The closest stations are Capitol South and Federal Center SW on the Orange, Silver and Blue lines and Union Station on the Red Line.
To avoid crowds, you may want to get off a stop early. Nearby stations include:
Red Line: Gallery Place, Judiciary Square, and Union Station are within a mile of the Capitol. Metro Center is about 1.5 miles away.
Orange, Blue and Silver lines: L'Enfant Plaza and Capitol South are less than a mile from the Capitol.
For Yellow and Green Lines: Archives, Gallery Place and L'Enfant Plaza stations are within a mile of the Capitol.
Arlington Cemetery and the National Mall side of the Smithsonian station are scheduled to be "entry only" after 9 p.m. to accommodate crowds heading home. The Independence Avenue entrance of the Smithsonian station will be available for both entry and exit throughout the day, Metro said.
How Long Will the Metro Be Open?
Metro is scheduled to be open from 7 a.m. until 11:30 p.m. with trains running every 12 minutes. Rush-hour level service begins around 6 p.m. Trains on the Yellow Line will operate only between Huntington and Mount Vernon Square beginning about 6 p.m. Riders wanting to travel north of Mount Vernon Square should use the Green Line instead.
Also, note that Metro is allowing passengers to carry and drink water on the system due to the excessive heat through the end of the day Wednesday.
Snarkitecture
In a custom recreation of Snarkitecture's "A Memorial Bowing" (2012), letters are scattered in the museum's "front yard" to welcome guests.
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The house at the heart of the exhibit re-imagines the idea of a traditional home.
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There's a kidney-shaped pool inspired by Snarkitecture's "The BEACH" (2015-2017) and a "Playhouse" (2017) in the museum's "backyard."
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The pool is filled with thousands of recyclable plastic balls for guests to relax or play in.
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Two-year-old David Helderman runs through "Playhouse," a structure with an illusion of depth for guests to explore.
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The house includes inflated tubes bundled together and lifted as though floating, similar to Snarkitecture's "Drift" (2012).
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Other Snarkitecture-inspired environments fill the space, including "Dig" (2011), which shows the architecture of excavation when entering the house.
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Visitors making their way through the house get to see the 10-year story of Snarkitecture in various forms.
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New concepts have also been developed for the museum.
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Admission is free for National Building Museum members; $10 for Blue Star Military Families; $13 for youth, students with an ID, seniors and AARP members; and $16 for adults.
What About Security?
Those attending A Capitol Fourth will be screened by security before entering. This will include a search of all bags, coolers, backpacks and closed containers, U.S. Capitol Police say.
Police say the following items are prohibited:
Alcoholic beverages
Glass bottles
Animals (other than service animals)
Bicycles
Firearms and ammunition (either real or simulated)
Explosives of any kind (including fireworks)
Knives, blades or sharp objects (of any length)
Laser pointers, signs, posters
Mace, pepper spray, sticks, poles
Electric stun guns
Martial arts weapons or devices
Umbrellas larger 36" in diameter
Pocket or hand tools
Sealed packages, large boxes, duffel bags, suitcases
Drones, model rockets, remote or manually controlled model gliders, model airplanes or unmanned aircraft, model boats and/or cars, and other unmanned ground or aircraft systems
Please note that other items also may be prohibited at the discretion of security screeners, police say.
What's the Forecast?
The heat wave is continuing into the Fourth, with highs in the low 90s and a heat index around 100, Storm Team4's Sheena Parveen said.
There is a chance for isolated showers in the afternoon, and some storms could lingering until 9 p.m. However, most of the area is expected to be dry. Pack some water bottles if you're planning to be outside. Check out Storm Team 4's forecasts for more information.
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The water adventures at Hurricane Harbor at Six Flags America (13710 Central Ave., Upper Marlboro, Maryland) range from beginner-friendly to... intimidating. Case in point: On the 132-foot funnel known as the Tornado, all you have to cling to is a four-person raft! (Good luck not screaming). You'll also find a huge variety of slides, a water park version of a half-pipe, a lazy river and a "beach." DISTANCE: 16 miles from downtown D.C.
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Looking for outdoor adventures? Take a quick drive to the Harpers Ferry area, where you can enjoy a variety of expeditions with Harpers Ferry Adventure Center or River & Trail Outfitters, including rafting, tubing, canoeing or kayaking. Each river trip is led by trained guides. DISTANCE: 68 miles from downtown D.C.
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Have you tried stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) yet? It's a challenging but fun combination of canoeing, kayaking and surfing, and it comes with the chance to build your balance skills, too. At Black Dog Paddle, which has locations in Richmond, Charlottesville, Fredericksburg and more, you can enjoy a scenic river paddle while getting a pretty good workout as well. Call 804-57-STAND to check on dates, times and rates. DISTANCE: A bit further away than we'd promised -- roughly 125 miles from downtown D.C., depending on the location you pick. If you need closer-in SUP'ing, try the Key Bridge Boathouse.
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SplashDown Waterpark (7500 Ben Lomond Park Drive, Manassas, Virginia) is home to a 770-foot lazy river, a sand beach, a lily pad and log walk, two fast cannonball slides, two four-story slides and more. DISTANCE: 35 miles from downtown D.C.
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When was the last time you bodysurfed on a massive wave? If "never" was your answer, the Great Waves Waterpark at Cameron Run Regional Park (4001 Eisenhower Ave., Alexandria, Virginia) may be the place to go. You'll also find speed slides, a wave pool, batting cages, fishing, miniature golf and a kids' zone. DISTANCE: 15 miles from downtown D.C.
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Enjoy a refreshing sea breeze not far from home at Chesapeake Beach (Maryland's western shore). Stroll the the boardwalk, enjoy the beach or check out the Chesapeake Beach Water Park. At the end of your day, stop by a roadside market for fresh fruits and veggies on the way home. DISTANCE: 35 miles from downtown D.C.
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Soak City at Kings Dominion (16000 Theme Park Way, Doswell, Virginia) is a great option for a day or weekend trip when it's way too hot to hit the coasters. You'll find more than a dozen water activities, including a wave pool, slides, and a massive water playground that's still fun when you're a grownup. DISTANCE: 75 miles from downtown D.C.
Bohrer Park
Bohrer Park (512 S. Frederick Ave., Gaithersburg, Maryland) offers a variety of slides -- including one that's an impressive 250 feet long -- and a main pool with activity areas. The kids' area offers plenty of shallow-water fun and a "raindrop" water umbrella. DISTANCE: 28 miles from downtown D.C.
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Want to skip the water parks? Go canoeing, tubing or kayaking with Shenandoah River Outfitters instead, and stay cool in a (mostly) shaded setting in Luray, Virginia, which offers campgrounds and cabin rentals if you'd like to spend a weekend away. DISTANCE: 100 miles from downtown D.C.
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When is a five-hour hike in the summer OK? When there's plenty of waterfalls and natural pools to cool you off. Get your workout in at White Oak Canyon and Cedar Run (Etlan, Virginia). See a PDF map from the National Park Service here.DISTANCE: 90 miles from downtown D.C.
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Didn't see your fave spot listed? Look for it in our other galleries: n• Top 10 Beaches n• 10 Places to Swim If You Want to Avoid Bay Bridge Traffic n• Top 10 Day Trips n• Top 10 Virginia Getaways n• Top 10 Maryland Getaways n• Top 10 Weekend Getaways
How Can I Watch on TV?
A Capitol Fourth will be broadcast on PBS and a repeat of the show will be aired at 9:30 p.m. The show will be livestreamed on Facebook, Youtube, and the website.
Where Else Can I See Fireworks?
Check out our Fireworks Finder roundup of fireworks displays in Maryland, Virginia and D.C.
National Harbor/Historic Ships in Baltimore/Marketa Eberyt
There are many free and cheap things to enjoy in Maryland.
National Cryptologic Museum
The National Cryptologic Museum in Annapolis details the extensive role of cryptology throughout American history. The museum holds a collection of artifacts machines and devices from the National Security Agency. Admission is free.
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The National Capital Radio and Television Museum in Bowie holds a wide collection of vintage radio receivers. Visitors can learn about the history of radio and television from its early days to the present with free admission. The museum is open on weekends only.
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Bring your friends and family to Summer Fridays at National Harbor every Friday at 4 p.m. and play games including giant Jenga, Connect Four and cornhole. Check out performances at Bobby McKey's, a dueling piano bar, or check out the dance floor with the DJ spinning summer jams.
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It was the victory at Fort McHenry during the Battle of Baltimore that inspired the lyrics for the Star-Spangled Banner. You can get an immersive Civil War-Era experience will self-guided tours around the fort and planned events throughout the year. There is a $15 entrance fee for adults which gives you access for 7 days.
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Maryland has many scenic trails to bike and walk through, including the Billy Goat Trail, which stretches along the Potomac River and is divided into three sections. You can choose from a challenging rock scramble or a more even path, or try all three. Check out trail hours and safety warnings before going. The Maryland Department of Natural Resources has an interactive map so you can find a trail near you.
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The visitor center offers a glimpse into NASA’s innovative work in Earth science, astrophysics, planetary science, engineering and all the other work they do. Visits are free of charge and available all week except Monday’s. The visitor’s center is located in Greenbelt, Maryland and accessible by metro.
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Visit the contemporary art and outdoor sculptures in the Glenstone Museum in Potomac. The former foxhunting-turned-art-deco estate is a great experience for any art connoisseur. Admission is free.
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Visit the historical Georgian mansion in Annapolis owned by William Paca, the third governor of Maryland which features two acres of geometrically designed gardens. Admission is $5-$10.
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Hike, jog or picnic at Great Falls and look at the waterfalls rushing downstream. Vehicle permits are $10; individual passes are $5.
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At the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum in Baltimore, learn about the African-American abolitionist and scientist in the late 18th century. Check out the 142 acres of exhibitions, trails and cabins dedicated to the scientific legacy of Benjamin Banneker.
There are several different byways to travel along throughout Maryland and D.C. You can retrace the escape route of John Wilkes Booth as he fled D.C., or walk along the route where several battles of the War of 1812 took place. There are tons of historic and scenic options to choose from.
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The museum has more than 7,000 works, including paintings and sculptures. It is located in Hagerstown’s historic City Park. The museum’s collections span centuries and continents featuring modern works from America and European old master paintings.
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Learn about the state capitol building where George Washington ratified the Treaty of Paris through a guided tour or a self-guided tour of the Maryland State House in Annapolis. Now the building serves the Maryland General Assembly for three months each year.
