D.C isn’t all just major attractions and the nation’s capital-- you’d be surprised to learn that there’s a lot more than meets the eye. In fact, Washington, D.C. is full of hidden gems and treasures that you’d never think to see. If you’ve already explored D.C. and think you’ve seen it all, think again, because you’re about to want to visit one more time.
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Whether you’ve explored Washington, D.C. on a field trip or business trip, we’ve all seen the top destinations in our nation’s capital. From the White House to the National Mall, D.C. offers the top tourist attractions in the city for groups of all kinds.
If you think you’ve seen it all, think again. Between the hustle and bustle of top museums and monuments hides glorious hidden gems that lack the attention they deserve. If you’re ready for your next adventure, hop into a charter bus or minibus rental with your friends and prepare for the trip of a lifetime.
If you’ve got time, your personal Washington D.C. bus rental out of city limits to explore new areas. Reserve an Alexandria charter bus rental, an Arlington bus rental, a Baltimore charter bus, or group transportation in NYC. Your adventure is all up to you.
To help you plan your next trip, we’ve compiled a list of must-see hidden gems sprawled across D.C. for you and your group to explore. And don’t forget to let Ally Charter Bus help you find the less-traveled roads for an easy and unforgettable trip. You’ll never look at our nation’s capital the same way again.
The Phillips Collection
Address: 1600 21st St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone: 202-387-2151
Hidden in the charming and historic Dupont Circle neighborhood, the Phillips Collection is a small gallery that features Post-Impressionist and modern art. Since it’s not near any other galleries or art museums, it’s not a popular tourist attraction, but any art lover will find they have an amazing selection to admire.
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Address: 1411 W St SE, Washington, DC 20020
Phone: (202) 426-5961
Tour the home of Frederick Douglass, located in the tourist-sparse Southeast quadrant area of D.C. People usually miss this important site and it’s usually just visited by residents or natives, giving your group the chance to really dive deep and learn all about leaders in the abolitionist movement. Make sure you reserve a guided tour for your group if you’re planning on visiting.
Old Post Office
Address: 1100 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004
Phone: (202) 289-4224
As one of the only places to get sky-high views of D.C., especially with the recent temporary closing of the Washington Monument, the Old Post Office dates back to 1889 and features a monumentally tall clock tower that allows visitors to catch breathtaking views of the nation’s capital.
Dumbarton Oaks Museum
Address: 1703 32nd St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: (202) 339-6401
Located just east of Georgetown University, Dumbarton Oaks is a historic estate that serves as half museum, half research library. Admission is completely free, and with an amazing collection of Byzantine and pre-Columbian artwork, you’ll leave feeling completely inspired.
President Lincoln’s Cottage
Address: 140 Rock Creek Church Rd NW, Washington, DC 20011
Phone: (202) 829-0436
We know you’ve seen the Lincoln Memorial, but have you ever seen the house where President Lincoln spent most of his time during the Civil War? Located near the Petworth neighborhood of Northeast D.C., President Lincoln’s Cottage is now a museum that offers guided tours where you can learn everything about the former president.
Old Stone House
Address: 3051 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone: (202) 895-6070
The Old Stone House is located in Georgetown and stands as the oldest unaltered building in D.C., dating back all the way in the pre-Revolutionary War era. Even though it was built in 1765, you would have never guessed due to how well it’s been preserved throughout years, landing it a spot on the list of national historic sites. This is a great spot to check out if you’re interested in learning about D.C.’s colonial history.
The Technicolor Church
Address: 700 Delaware Ave SW, Washington, DC.
Phone: 202-554-0103
A former Baptist church, this now abandoned building has transformed into a literal work of art by Atlanta artist Alex Hense Brewer. This colorful work of art is now an icon in D.C. and has changed the neighborhood into a lively hub for artists and musicians. While admission is free, be sure to call ahead to let them know you’re coming with a group!
Gravelly Point Park
Address: George Washington Parkway, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: 703-228-3969
Just outside of D.C., Gravelly Point is situated in Arlington, VA and is considered the top place for plane watching in the entire country. Right on the edge of the Potomac River, it’s easily accessible and you’ll catch planes flying directly over you every 3-5 minutes. Kids love this destination, and even if you’re not an aviation enthusiast, it’s a fun spot to see something different.
Address: 700 Army Navy Dr, Arlington, VA 22202
Phone: (202) 307-3463
Did you know that the Drug Enforcement Administration has its own museum? While it might not sound like the most enticing topic, the DEA Museum gives visitors a complete history of drugs, drug addictions, and drug law enforcement in the U.S. Learn all about the Columbian cartels and drug history through exhibits, displays, and interactive stations.
Renwick Chapel
Address: 3001 R St NW, Washington DC, DC 20007
Phone: 202-337-2835
At the top of Oak Hill Cemetery sits Renwick Chapel, a Gothic Revival chapel that looks like it's straight from a storybook. Built in the 1880s, this chapel is the perfect way to connect with the past, and while you’re there, check out the graves of prominent figures, like William Corcoran and James Blaine.
Address: East Capitol St NE & First St SE, Washington, DC 20004
Located on a hillside of the West Front Lawn on the Senate side of the U.S. Capitol building, this secluded, quiet, and secretive place, mostly known as the Summerhouse, was built in the 1880s as a quiet stop for visitors to rest and relax with a refreshing drink of water. The fountain in the middle was used to offer guests fresh water from a spring. It’s the perfect spot to relax and rest after walking around all day.
Albert Einstein Memorial
Address: 2101 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20418
Not very well-known in the D.C. area, the Albert Einstein Memorial is located on the grounds of the National Academy of Sciences. The 21-foot bronze statue of Einstein features a sky map of the universe and 2,700 stainless steel markers to create a celestial map, making it a must-see for every group.
Travel with ease throughout Washington, D.C. in a personal charter bus for a completely custom experience. With the largest network of bus rentals in the Northeast and 24/7 customer support, your trip will run seamlessly from beginning to end. Ready to book? Call us at 703-286-7418 to begin planning today!