REST
Washington, DC’s hotel scene continues to evolve with a collection of exciting new openings, major renovations and special accommodation packages celebrating America’s 250th anniversary.

CitizenM Washington Georgetown (June 2026) – Located along Georgetown’s historic waterfront, the 230-room property combines contemporary design, smart-room technology and art-filled communal spaces within a restored century-old building.
Beacon at Embassy Row (July 2026) – Following a complete transformation, the hotel introduces redesigned guest rooms, refreshed public spaces and more than 650 square metres of flexible event space.
The Hoya Hotel at Georgetown (August 2026) – Georgetown University’s boutique hotel returns following a significant renovation featuring 146 guestrooms, contemporary design and an expansive glass-fronted lobby.
Tempo by Hilton Washington, DC Downtown (2026) – A former office tower at the iconic address of 1776 K Street NW has been transformed into a stylish lifestyle hotel complete with rooftop facilities, wellness-focused rooms and new dining venues.
Canopy by Hilton Washington, DC The Wharf (Fall 2026) – Soft renovations coincide with the arrival of new waterfront restaurant Capitano.

DC250 Hotel Packages:
More than 30 hotels across the city are offering special America 250-themed packages, experiences and exclusive offers throughout 2026. Participating properties include the Conrad Washington, DC, Capital Hilton, Fairmont Washington, DC Georgetown, Kimpton Hotel Monaco DC, Pendry Washington, DC, Watergate Hotel and Royal Sonesta Dupont Circle. Find more HERE.

EAT
Washington, DC’s dining scene continues to thrive with a diverse mix of international flavours, chef-led concepts and exciting new openings.

New Openings:
Ox & Olive, Georgetown – Michelin-starred chef Ryan Ratino’s latest venture delivers an approachable menu featuring creative dishes including brisket hot dogs, steak tartare éclairs and his renowned carrot cake.
Café Unido, La Cosecha – The acclaimed Panamanian coffee roaster has expanded to DC with an all-day café and evening cocktail bar serving Latin-inspired small plates.
Kathmandu DC, U Street – A vibrant new Himalayan-inspired cocktail bar showcasing Nepali flavours, creative cocktails and traditional small plates.
Rosselli, Downtown – Michelin-starred chef Carlos Cardona presents a refined modern Italian dining experience featuring handmade pastas, fresh seafood and elegant European-inspired interiors.
Catahoula, Navy Yard – Bringing the flavours of Louisiana to the Anacostia waterfront, with crawfish boils, creole specialties and a French brasserie atmosphere.
Capitano, The Wharf – A coastal Italian restaurant focusing on fresh seafood, handmade pasta and wood-fired cooking overlooking the waterfront.

Coming Soon:
Brisa, a Tulum-inspired waterfront restaurant from chef Carlos Delgado at Buzzard Point.
Kneads Bakeshop & Café in Logan Circle.
Alfie’s, the return of chef Alex McCoy’s popular Isaan-inspired concept in Georgetown.
Taki Taki, a new Indian fine-dining destination on Capitol Hill.
Giordano’s famous Chicago deep-dish pizza arriving in DC.

PLAY
Summer and autumn 2026 deliver one of the most exciting event calendars in Washington, DC’s history, bringing together major cultural openings, milestone celebrations and world-class sporting moments.

National Geographic Museum of Exploration | Opened 26 June 2026
Following a USD$250 million redevelopment, the National Geographic Society unveils its highly anticipated Museum of Exploration, featuring immersive exhibits, state-of-the-art theatre experiences, iconic photography and spectacular nightly outdoor projections.
National Air and Space Museum Expansion | Opened 1 July 2026
Marking its 50th anniversary, the Smithsonian’s National Air and Space Museum reveals five new galleries as part of its major multi-year transformation, showcasing groundbreaking stories of flight and space exploration.
America’s 250th Birthday Celebrations | 4 July 2026
Washington, DC hosts the nation’s signature Independence Day festivities, including parades, live concerts, family-friendly programming and spectacular fireworks over the National Mall.
The Great American State Fair on the National Mall | Through 10 July 2026
Enjoy a free nationwide showcase featuring all 50 states, U.S. territories and federal agencies, with exhibits, entertainment and cultural programming on the National Mall.
Lincoln Memorial Undercroft Museum | Opens July 2026
A new 15,000-square-foot underground museum beneath the Lincoln Memorial explores the monument’s history and its powerful connection to the Civil Rights Movement through immersive multimedia exhibitions.
Summer Restaurant Week | August 2026 
More than 150 restaurants across Washington, DC take part in this citywide celebration of dining, offering specially priced menus that showcase the capital’s culinary scene.
Freedom 250 Grand Prix of Washington, DC | 22–23 August 2026 
The NTT INDYCAR SERIES arrives in Washington, DC with a unique street circuit around the National Mall, passing some of the United States’ most iconic landmarks.
DC JazzFest | Labour Day Weekend 2026 
One of the nation’s premier jazz festivals returns with performances across the city, celebrating the next 250 years of American music, culture and creativity.
Washington Nationals Baseball Season | Through September 2026
Catch Major League Baseball action at Nationals Park throughout the season, complete with lively game-day traditions and family-friendly entertainment.
Dear America | Through 20 September 2026 | National Gallery of Art
Explore 250 years of American identity and history through artworks that reflect the nation’s evolving story. Free admission.
America’s State Flowers | Through 1 October 2026 | U.S. Botanic Garden
Discover the official flowers of every U.S. state and territory in a vibrant living exhibition celebrating botanical diversity.
Washington Spirit Soccer | Through November 2026
Watch one of the USA’s premier women’s soccer teams compete at Audi Field, delivering world-class talent and high-energy match-day experiences.
D.C. United Soccer | Through November 2026
Experience Major League Soccer in the heart of the capital as four-time MLS Cup champions D.C. United take to the pitch at Audi Field.

DEVELOPMENTS
Washington, DC continues to invest heavily in its future, with more than USD$10 billion worth of developments transforming neighbourhoods, attractions and public spaces.

National Mall Transformation More than USD$500 million is being invested in enhancements across the National Mall ahead of America’s 250th anniversary. Projects include the new Lincoln Memorial museum, upgraded Constitution Gardens and extensive improvements to visitor facilities and public spaces.
Georgetown Evolution – The historic neighbourhood continues to attract new retail, dining and wellness concepts, including The Salty Donut, PopUp Bagels, Sézane and RM Balance wellness studio. Major residential conversion projects are also bringing new life to the area.
Downtown Revitalisation – The city’s USD$400 million Downtown Action Plan is creating new green spaces, pedestrian-friendly streets and cultural hubs, while leading the nation in office-to-residential conversions with thousands of new homes planned.
RFK Stadium Redevelopment – Plans continue for a USD$3.8 billion transformation of the RFK Stadium site into a new entertainment district featuring a 65,000-seat stadium, residential developments, retail precincts and recreation facilities.

Future Attractions – Exciting projects on the horizon include the USD$800 million Capital One Arena transformation, the 11th Street Bridge Park, Brooklyn Bowl entertainment venue, Therme Spa Resort and new Smithsonian museums dedicated to American Women’s History and Latino history.