With WorldPride 2025 set to be a monumental celebration of LGBTQ+ diversity and inclusion, Washington DC is gearing up for an epic party! 

Planning to be part of the festivities? This 3-day itinerary, curated with the help of our IGLTA Global Partner Destination DC, is your perfect pre-Pride guide to D.C.'s vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and iconic landmarks.
 

Day 1: Monuments, Markets, and Moonlight Munchies

  • Touchdown in D.C.: Arrive at any of the three convenient airports serving the D.C. area: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), or Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). All are well-connected to the hassle-free Metro system. Download the Metro app for contactless payments and breeze right into exploring the city!

  • Centrally Located Comfort: Check into your hotel. Many fabulous options exist, but for a convenient location that embraces inclusivity, consider the Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square, which is part of the welcoming Accor Group. Accor has been a valued IGLTA Global Partner since 2021.


  Pride Patio at the Sofitel

 

  • Two Wheels and a Taste of History: DC boasts excellent bike lanes. Hop on a Lime bike and explore Eastern Market, a historic marketplace (since 1873!) offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and mouthwatering prepared foods. Don't miss the vibrant outdoor market that takes over on weekends!

  • A Landmark Walking Tour: Immerse yourself in DC's rich history with a stroll past the Library of Congress, the U.S. Capitol Building, and the Supreme Court.

  • Monuments by Moonlight: Take in the awe-inspiring beauty of DC's famous monuments under the night sky with a Monuments by Moonlight Tour offered by Old Town Trolley Tours. This is a truly magical way to appreciate these iconic structures.

  • Midnight Snack: Cap off the day with a late-night snack from a National Mall food truck, savoring the sights under the moonlight. 

 

Day 2: National Mall & Dupont Circle

  • Reaching New Heights: Start your day with a visit to the Old U.S. Post Office Tower. This architectural marvel, slated for demolition on more than one occasion, is now a National Park Service site offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city (free entry!).

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  • To the Mall: DC is home to 17 Smithsonian Institute Museums, 11 of which are located on the National Mall! We decided to check out the National Museum of Asian Art ahead of our 2024 Global Convention in Osaka, Japan to explore stunning Japanese collections and other captivating exhibits.

  • Next we headed to the National Gallery of Art's East Building. This renowned museum houses works by numerous LGBTQ+ artists. Follow the museum's online guide "LGBTQ Artists to Know" to discover hidden gems by queer creatives.

  • A Rainbow Welcome: After a morning immersed in art, we hopped on the metro up to Dupont Circle, DC's historic LGBTQ+ neighborhood. This vibrant area offers a welcoming atmosphere with a plethora of restaurants, cafes, and bars. 

  • Grab lunch at Boogy & Peel, an LGBTQ+ woman-owned pizza place with delicious bites! 

  • Post-lunch coffee at Kramer’s. As a true DC institution this carefully curated bookstore and full-service restaurant has something for everyone. And be sure to check out the bookstore's extensive queer section.

  • Evening Adventures: Explore iconic LGBTQ+ bars like The Little Gay Pub and Larry's Lounge for a taste of the lively nightlife scene. 

  • Dinner at the Wharf: Head southwest to catch the sunset with stunning river views and waterfront atmosphere. This neighborhood has something for everyone, charming shops with locally-made crafts and delicious treats, and a variety of dining options, including two that are part of Knead Hospitality + Design’s LGBTQ+ restaurant group.

    • Bistro Du Jour is a lovely French bistro that is perfect for a refreshing cocktail with a view. 

    • Mi Vida combines authentic Mexican street food with traditional homemade dishes.

Day 3: Adam's Morgan 

  • A Global Neighborhood: Explore the diverse and eclectic neighborhood of Adam's Morgan. This vibrant area features international restaurants, trendy shops, and a strong LGBTQ+ presence.

  • Cheers to Community: Grab a pitcher with friends at A League of Her Own, a legendary lesbian bar that's been a staple in the DC LGBTQ+ community for decades.

  • Browse the shelves at the LGBTQ+ owned Miss Pixies for vintage furnishings, accessories and art. And find a good read at Lost City Books, a local bookstore that also hosts queer community events. 

 

Beyond the Itinerary

D.C. offers endless possibilities for exploration. Consider visiting the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Air and Space Museum, other Smithsonian Institution museums, or catching a performance at the Kennedy Center. 
This 3-day itinerary provides a glimpse into the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene and iconic landmarks of DC, but WorldPride 2025 promises to be an unforgettable experience! Special thanks to Destination DC, an IGLTA Global Partner for putting together this itinerary and their dedication to LGBTQ+ inclusion in travel.