Washington DC - January 15, 2026

DC’s Winter Secrets Locals Love

Behind-the-scenes museums, mocktail hotspots and January-only...

The graphic displays the handwritten text “November 26–27, 2025” with a teal underline on a black background.

Visitors walk through the sunlit U.S. Botanic Garden Conservatory surrounded by cacti and lush greenery in Washington, DC.

Your Washington, DC Winter Bucket List

Winter in Washington, DC is a can’t-miss mix of iconic and unexpected, from ice skating near the National Gallery of Art to sipping cocktails in cozy igloos and hidden speakeasies. Warm up with a half-smoke, wander the tropical U.S. Botanic Garden, catch a Capitals or Wizards game and enjoy less crowded museums and monuments.

Chase Winter Magic

A visitor looks toward a large stone memorial statue dusted with snow at the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial in Washington, DC.

Things to Do January 2026 in DC

From savoring Restaurant Week (Jan. 19-25) deals to revving up engines at the Washington Auto Show (Jan. 23 – Feb 1), see what’s happening the rest of the month.

Jump Into January

A hand holds a green cocktail garnished with fruit on a table set with small plates and charcuterie in Washington, DC.

Places to Enjoy Delicious Mocktails and Non-Alcoholic Drinks

Whether you’re embarking on a New Year’s resolution, a Dry January challenge or just laying off the booze, toast to high spirits with spirit-free libations all over the District.

Start Sipping

The Spy Museum’s Best-Kept Secret

If you’ve already explored the exhibits at the International Spy Museum, this is your next move. Vault Tours take you beyond the public galleries and into a behind-the-scenes experience led by museum experts, featuring rare documents and artifacts not on display. It’s a deeper, more intimate look at the shadowy world of real espionage.

Access Granted

A visitor stands in front of interactive aviation exhibits exploring the history of flight at a museum in Washington, DC.

Colorful abstract dot painting with flowing lines and layered textures inspired by Indigenous Australian art.

National Gallery of Art

A Must-See Exhibition at the National Gallery of Art

Modern art. Ancient roots. Join us for The Stars We Do Not See, a once-in-a-lifetime exhibition of Australian Indigenous art. Plan your free visit!

Don't Miss This

Exterior view of the National Geographic Museum courtyard in Washington, DC, featuring the iconic yellow frame at the main entrance.

Discover the Museum of Exploration

Experience the wonder of our world at the National Geographic Museum of Exploration this summer.

Explore More

Fans fill Audi Field as a DC United soccer match unfolds under a colorful sunset sky in Washington, DC.

2026 Tickets Now On Sale

The new year is here and so are DC United’s 2026 single match tickets. Secure the best seats to the biggest matchups at Audi Field today.

Buy Tickets Now

Full Day Washington DC Highlights Private Experience

U Street Food Tasting Private Walking Tour

Half-Off Wine Bottle Tuesdays at Supra

We The People Itinerary: Taste a Food Creator’s Mount Pleasant

Wasington, DC Center Stage for America's 250th throughout 2026

Hidden Histories: A 3-Day Itinerary for America’s 250th

DC250 Hotel Deals & Packages in Washington, DC

250 New Cherry Blossom Trees to Celebrate 250 Years of U.S. History

SIGNATURE PARTNERS

Copyright © 2026 Destination DC
Our address is 901 7th Street NW, 4th Floor, Washington, DC 20001-3719
Toll-Free: 1-800-422-8644 | Phone: 202-789-7000
Destination DC is committed to protecting the privacy of its members, customers and contacts. Please review the terms of Destination DC's privacy policy.

Please do not reply to this email as we are unable to respond from this address. To ensure continued delivery of this newsletter, please add [email protected] to your email address book. If you do not wish to receive future email, click here.

To advertise in this email or in any Destination DC products, please contact [email protected].