Close your eyes and imagine ice skating, hot chocolate, and Christmas lights. This is just a sneak peek of what Christmas in DC has to offer. The capital city shines brightly through the festive season with activities, shopping and so much more for entertainment.

Washington, DC transforms over this period, transforming its hectic streets into a laid-back Christmas wonderland. With extended opening hours at some of the best attractions and huge Christmas trees adorned with fairy lights, people of all ages will love the magic in DC.

Would you like to make the most of your Christmas in the capital? You’re in luck. We’ve created this guide to show you the best places to stay and unmissable things to do. DC is a bustling city, so we’ll even show you how to get around in comfort.

Keep reading to make your Christmas in DC the best Christmas yet.

The Best Hotels in DC this Christmas

There’s something about the sparkling lights that lend Christmas an air of luxury. And what better way to embrace it than in one of DC’s best hotels? Relax in style this Christmas and stay in a hotel that treats you like royalty.

The Jefferson

Balancing classic grandeur with contemporary chic, the Jefferson Hotel is a magical place to stay over the Christmas holiday season. With festive decorations elegantly hanging throughout the hotel and fine festive dining at the Michelin-starred restaurant, you’ll feel right at home.

With beautiful rooms, a relaxing spa, and situated in the heart of the city, staying at the Jefferson will make your visit as easy as possible.

The Hay-Adams

Just moments from the White House and the National Christmas Tree, the Hay-Adams Hotel is utter luxury. Every moment you spend here will be relaxing, with its opulent rooms, outstanding restaurant, and city-wide views.

From here, you’ll be in the perfect position to explore DC’s best attractions and make the most of your time in the capital.

Park Hyatt

The Park Hyatt Washington, DC is on the edge of Georgetown and has wonderful, contemporary rooms and suites. Christmas here is relaxed and serene with every inch of the hotel welcoming and laid-back.

Take a swim in the saltwater pool, dine at the Michelin-starred restaurant, and explore DC right from the doorstep.

What to Do in DC This Christmas

DC spoils its visitors throughout the festive period with late-night attractions, fine dining, and exciting events.

Go Ice Skating

Is there anything more festive than going ice skating? With five ice rinks open on Christmas Day alone, it’s time to get your skates on.

Head to the Washing Harbor Ice Rink to practice your best spins or visit the Canal Park Outdoor Ice Skating rink to speed around like you’re flying.

Visit the National Christmas Tree

Right outside the White House, the National Christmas Tree towers above you as you look up at its wonderful decorations. There’s been a Christmas tree here every winter for almost a hundred years and it’s a tradition well worth seeing.

Head to the National Zoo

Families will love visiting the National Zoo at Christmas when it shines bright after sunset. With zoo animal Christmas lights, ice sculptures, and special events, the Zoo Lights attraction is a DC Christmas tradition.

Visit the U.S. Botanic Garden

Visiting a botanic garden may not sound very festive but it’s a different story in DC. Each Christmas the Seasons Greetings exhibition draws crowds from all over the country to see its amazing festive displays.

Catch one of the live music performances here and stay warm with a hot chocolate.

Shop at the Holiday Markets

DC is packed with exciting holiday markets where you can pick up gifts, marvel at all the stalls, and treat yourself to festive drinks. The Downtown Holiday Market is the place to begin, with over 150 stalls.

See a Show

The Kennedy Center puts on a huge variety of shows throughout the festive period where you can watch ballet, orchestral performances, and comedy. There’s always something magical about going to the theatre and DC puts on some of the best shows in the country.

How to Get Around DC This Christmas

When you visit DC for Christmas, you’ll want your luxury visit to be perfect from the moment you arrive. DC is a busy place but there are ways to get around to avoid any stress.

Airport Pick-Up

Airports can be hectic places over the holidays, especially when it’s cold outside. The best way to have a relaxing journey from the moment you step off the plane is to hire a luxury private car.

Forget waiting for a cab or navigating public transport, with a private car, our driver takes care of everything for you. Whether you want to go straight to your hotel or stop at one of the city’s exquisite restaurants, we’ll take you where you want to go.

Private Car Around Town

Whether you’ve got a Christmas masquerade ball to attend or want to head across town to an ice rink, having a chauffeur means you don’t have to think about anything.

Get across the city in the car of your choice. From Lincoln Town Cars to limousines, private vehicles are available to whisk you to wherever you need to be, in comfort and style.

Cross the Water by Boat

If you need to cross the water or simply want a new way to travel, you can take river cruises and water taxis. After dark, you’ll see DC lit up with Christmas lights. From private tours to narrated cruises, there’s plenty of options out on the water.

Spend a Wonderful Christmas in DC

Christmas in DC will give you lasting memories. With huge Christmas trees, ice rinks, and holiday markets, spending the festive season in the capital is like being in a Christmas movie.

Washington, DC is blessed with luxury hotels and first-class attractions suitable for families and couples. With so much to do, your holidays in DC can be as relaxed or as busy as you like.

If you want the most comfortable trip possible, get in touch with us to book a private vehicle for your DC vacation. We’ll make getting where you need to go a breeze so you can focus on having the time of your life.