side view of the Jefferson Memorial with Pedal Boats in the water

Visiting Washington, DC in August

ByKelley Smith

Like July, Washington, DC in August is hot and humid. Many tourists are still visiting for summer vacation but locals head out on vacation to escape the heat. If you come prepared for the sun and humidity, August can be a great time to visit while the hum of politics, news, and business is slow.

If you visit DC in August, wear breathable clothes, good walking shoes, and sun protection. Consider spending most of the afternoon indoors, away from the heat. Think Smithsonian museums, a basement bar, or taking a boat tour on the Potomac River. If you want to take in the monuments, check out a nighttime tour after the sun has set.

Side view of the Jefferson Memorial in DC in August with pedal boat floating in the water
Jefferson Memorial with Pedal Boats

Special Events in August 2024

Summer Restaurant Week: August 12 to 18

Don’t miss a chance to try some of DC’s best restaurants at a great deal. Find special offers for multi-course lunch, brunch, and dinner options. Many Michelin-featured restaurants participate, including Bresca, Jaleo, Oyamel, Dauphine’s, and Ottoman Taverna. Look out for restaurants offering additional discounts on wine or extended dates.

National Book Festival: August 24

Find your next read and enjoy author talks at that National Book Festival. Curated by the Library of Congress, this festival features a wide variety of stories from novels to children;s books. This event is free and open to the public at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center.

DC JazzFest: August 28 to September 1

Find a variety of jazz performances all over the city from August 28 to September 1. Most events are ticketed so grab tickets for your favorite performances early. More performances will be announced as the event gets closer.

Visit the Botanic Gardens

If you’d like to enjoy some of the city’s green space but it is way to hot to be outside, consider a visit to the Botanic Gardens. The Botanic Gardens offers both an outdoor garden and inside space where you’ll be protected from the heat. On August 15, the gardens will be open until 8 pm with lemonade, botanical mocktails, and snacks for purchase.

Nationals Games: Tuesday Deals and Steals

The Nationals are in town almost every Tuesday of the month (except August 13). Every Tuesday, you can save up to 30% off regular ticket prices and find discounts on pretzels, hot dogs, pizza, and fountain drinks. A Nationals game is a great summer pastime if you can’t make it on a Tuesday. You can also find a variety of DC’s favorite snacks including Ben’s Chili Bowl, Roaming Rooster, and Arepa Zone.

Up Next: 12 Things To Do This Summer in Washington, DC

Things to Do In Washington, DC in August

  1. Eat at a waterfront restaurant in Georgetown, the Wharf, or Navy Yard
  2. See a concert on the Millennium Stage at the Kennedy Center
  3. Take the kids to the splash park in Navy Yard or Le Droit Park
  4. Attend a baseball or soccer game
  5. Grab a drink at a rooftop bar in Adams Morgan or the 14th Street Corridor
  6. Beat the heat in a Smithsonian Museum
  7. Kayak on the Potomac River
  8. Relax in the shade with a picnic at one of DC’s parks