Start Your D.C. Summer Adventures with the Museum of Exploration
It’s unofficially the start of summer, which means it’s finally time to kick off those summer adventures!
Whether you’re building your summer bucket list, a local Washingtonian looking for fresh weekend plans or a visitor looking to make the most of your time in the District, the National Geographic Museum of Exploration has got you covered. Afterall, the National Geographic Society has proudly called Washington, D.C., home since 1888.
Photo Credit: Rebecca Hale/National Geographic Society
Washington DC, June 04, 2026 -
There is always something fun to do in the District, and while our recommendations are constantly evolving, consider this your essential guide to starting off your summer right in Washington, D.C.
You can dive into a full day of programming featuring interactive activities, live performances and pop-up talks with National Geographic Explorers throughout the museum.
Plus, create your own screen-printed memento inspired by nature, get tips on how to capture high quality photos from your smart phone and join the National Geographic Mapping Team for a mapmaking game.
There is so much to do in the city, including getting out in nature. You can spend a quiet afternoon by the Potomac River or head up to Rock Creek Park for some hiking and exploring. If you’re strolling the National Mall, take a moment to learn about the National Park Service (NPS) — including how the April 1916 edition of the National Geographic magazine encouraged Congress to protect the nation's precious landscapes by establishing NPS.
Pick Up Some Exploring Fuel
Photo Credit: Gabriela Paola Franco Pena
Every explorer needs a caffeine boost to keep the momentum going. One of the best ways to discover D.C. is to meet the community and small businesses that make the District such a special place. Grab a ticket to the MOE and sip on a latte in Explorers Eatery during your visit, or venture out to try a new local coffee shop around the city.
Plus, if you want some adventure with your caffeine fix, stop by the MOE for Coffee with an Explorer, an intimate small-group experience where you can hear firsthand stories from National Geographic Explorers whose work is shaping how we understand wildlife, science, culture and our changing planet.
Celebrate America 250 at the MOE
Photo Credit: Rebecca Hale/National Geographic Society
There’s nothing like July 4 in the capital. Spend Fourth of July with the Museum of Exploration for a special day celebrating the people, places and stories that have shaped the United States over the past 250 years.
The day will feature a series of National Parks-themed events dedicated to spotlighting these protected spaces and all the creatures that call them home, including a scavenger hunt throughout the museum highlighting our stunning photography of the National Parks.
Plus, you can also discover our latest photography exhibition, “Red, White & Blue: Photographs of the United States,” featuring a collection of images from National Geographic Explorers and photographers that explore the United States’ history, culture and complexities through the colorful lens of the U.S. flag.
Before you head to see fireworks, make sure to stop by the Museum Shop to grab a National Geographic book and other merch from our America 250 collection as a memento.
Try a New Summer Recipe
Photo Credit: Taylor Mickal
Summertime produce like berries, corn, tomatoes and more are officially in season again, making it the perfect time to grill out or try a new recipe.
Celebrate these fresh, seasonal flavors every Tuesday at the National Geographic Farmstand in the Courtyard at the MOE, featuring a vibrant selection of organic produce all sustainably sourced by local farmers. Stop by to stock your pantry, meet regional growers, connect with the local community and explore downtown Washington, D.C.
An Exploring-Filled Summer Awaits
We can’t wait to spend summertime with you when the National Geographic Museum of Exploration opens in Washington, D.C., on June 26. Make sure to take time this season to explore, have fun, connect with nature and visit D.C.’s newest museum, of course.
To see what else is happening at the MOE this summer, check out What's On to learn more about our other events weekly trivia, Nat Geo Nights and more.
At the National Geographic Museum of Exploration (MOE), we like to say that sustainability is built into our foundation — literally.
And for good reason – the National Geographic Society’s mission — using the power of science, exploration, education and storytelling to illuminate and protect the wonder of our world — and sustainability go hand-in-hand. In 2003, the Society’s headquarters made history as the world’s first existing building to achieve LEED certification.
If you’ve ever been asked, “What’s your favorite animal?” and found yourself struggling to choose just one, we have some good news, and some more good news — we’ll start with the first.
At the National Geographic Museum of Exploration (MOE), Explorers who are protecting the wonder of our world are at the heart of our experience — like global icon Jane Goodall. Her life serves as a constant reminder that we all have the power to change the world when we work together.
