See photos and updates from listings directly in your feed
Share your favorite listings with friends and family
Save your search and get new listings directly in your mailbox before everybody else
Washington, DC, transforms into a captivating autumn wonderland as the leaves change and the air turns crisp. With a backdrop of colorful foliage and clear skies, the city offers exciting fall activities you can’t miss. From eerie ghost tours to lively outdoor events, here’s your guide to the top 10 things to include on your DC fall bucket list.
1. Experience a Spooky Visit to the Exorcist Steps
Get into the Halloween spirit by visiting the Exorcist Steps in Georgetown. These iconic stairs were featured in the climactic scene of “The Exorcist.” With an abandoned gas station at their base, they provide an eerie atmosphere perfect for a spooky adventure.
2. Attend Night of the Living Zoo or Boo at the Zoo
Join the festivities at the Smithsonian National Zoo during October. For adults, “Night of the Living Zoo” offers a unique after-hours party with craft beer, food trucks, and a costume contest. Families can enjoy “Boo at the Zoo,” an animal-themed Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating and entertainment.
3. Explore Apple Orchards
Embrace the fall spirit by heading to apple orchards in the DC area. Butcher’s Orchard and Carter Mountain Orchard offer a variety of activities like apple picking, hayrides, and pumpkin selection. Plan your visit during peak apple-picking season for a memorable experience.
4. Embark on a Ghost Tour in Old Town Alexandria
Uncover the eerie history of Old Town Alexandria by participating in a ghost tour. Delve into the rich stories and legends that haunt this historic area, leaving you both engrossed and slightly spooked.
5. Relax at Outdoor Beer Gardens
Enjoy the crisp fall nights at one of DC’s many outdoor beer gardens. With options like Dacha Beer Garden and Wunder Garten, you can savor craft beers, cozy up by fire pits, and bask in the vibrant autumn atmosphere.
6. Witness the High Heel Drag Queen Race
Immerse yourself in the vibrant and entertaining High Heel Drag Queen Race. Experience the spectacle as hundreds of drag queens race down 17th Street in sky-high heels, creating a lively and unforgettable atmosphere.
7. Visit Charming Vineyards
Escape the city and spend a day at one of the picturesque vineyards in Virginia and Maryland. Enjoy the stunning fall colors, sample local wines, and savor the cozy ambiance of roaring fire pits.
8. Celebrate at Mount Vernon’s Trick or Treating or Wine Fest
Participate in Mount Vernon’s enchanting fall events. Attend the wine festival for breathtaking views of the Potomac River while sipping local wines. For families, the trick-or-treat afternoon provides kids with a fun and festive experience.
9. Admire Fall Foliage Across the City
Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty by exploring fall foliage hotspots in the city. From the National Mall to George Washington Memorial Parkway, there are numerous places to witness the stunning transformation of leaves.
10. Indulge in Fall-Inspired Cuisine
Treat your taste buds to fall flavors by exploring DC’s best restaurants. From pumpkin spice treats to hearty soups, indulge in seasonal delights that capture the essence of autumn.
Washington, DC, comes alive with many activities during the fall season. From haunted adventures to picturesque outdoor events, this city offers something for everyone. As the leaves change and the air turns cooler, make the most of the vibrant atmosphere and create unforgettable memories with these ten fantastic fall experiences. Enjoy the magic of autumn in the nation’s capital!
