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City Cast DC

Tips and tricks by Washington, D.C., locals, for locals.

Kaela Cote-Stemmermann

Between Pride, America 250 events, Juneteenth celebrations, film festivals, and new museums, June is not a month to stay home. 

Here’s how to up your D.C. cultural ~ aura ~ this month

 from around the world. For a D.C.-focused film, check out 

 about local legend Samu Kureshi, who spent 50 years building the country’s largest private collection of Commanders memorabilia! You can get an all-access pass for $237 or catch individual films for $17 a pop.

America's 250th anniversary events are coming to the National Mall and beyond. From the 

 starting June 25, the celebrations are going to be non-stop. For something more local check out the 

Turns out you don’t need to stay at a fancy D.C. hotel to use their pool. You can just buy a day pass on 

 for around $20 to $60. You can even rent a whole cabana with your friends for $100. But of course, we’re never too good for a dip in one of D.C.’s public pools either. Here’s a 

It’s impossible to talk about June without mentioning Pride. The annual 

 is on June 20 this year, but why stop there? Watch the 

 with Maren Morris and Leikeli47, hit up 

 opens on June 26 with interactive exhibits, massive projections, and a magazine archives gallery. Tickets are $29 and include entry to the museum and attached food hall with Italian, Moroccan, Peruvian, and Vietnamese options, plus a full bar and bakery.

 — is happening at Wonderland Ballroom on June 7. Sundresses are required (regardless of gender). So beg, borrow, or steal one from a friend and show a little leg for charity. There will be some to borrow if you don’t have your own so you can compete for the best dress award.

Get the Meat Sweats at the National Capital Barbecue Battle

Endless meat for the price of a $21 day pass. What could go wrong? Barbeque vendors from around the country 

 on June 27-28, while local go-go legends like Rare Essence, Junkyard, EU, and the Chuck Brown Band sing your meaty worries away.

Listen For More Things To Do In DC This June

June is slam-packed with activities (not to mention an election!). Here’s the best things to do in D.C. this month.

Your Guide to Washington, D.C. in June 2026

Your Guide to D.C. in June 2026

Tips and tricks for living your best DC life, by locals, for locals.

DC Life Hacks

Summer is just around the corner. We talked 

 about the best beach getaways close to D.C. and how to make the most of them.

Shoulder months like June and September tend to have significantly fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices. But whenever you go, be sure to book lodging a month or two in advance (or more for peak months!) if you want anything remotely close to the water.

Haters will say it’s not a “real beach.” Sure, it’s a little small, and sure, you can see the other shore across the Chesapeake, but it still makes for a great swim. Getting there is super convenient and has great views of the Bay Bridge. The only downside is the beach can stain your legs orange because of the sands' naturally high iron content.

There are no restaurants or activities within walking distance. I recommend picking up some subs and snacks from Wawa on your way. If you want something more refined, Annapolis is a 15-minute drive with favorites like 

A quick afternoon dip and a free orange spray tan.

A personal favorite, this quiet, dog-friendly beach is hidden behind a park. It’s small, but the water is shallow and warm, so it’s perfect for swimming if you’re a baby about getting in the water like me. Park for free near the Matapeake Clubhouse then take a short, winding trail through the woods to get to the water.

You’re legally required to stop at the 

 on your way back, a seasonal takeout restaurant with freshly steamed Maryland crabs, fried shrimp, and fat crab cakes.

Somewhere free and easy to bring your pup.

Technically still on the Potomac, this beach is clean and rarely crowded, making it a popular spot for fishing and crabbing. It’s nothing like the larger Virginia Beach or Ocean City, but it has a quaint charm that Ebner swears by. There’s parking, public bathrooms on site, and a public pier. Just beware, it tends to have quite a lot of jellyfish in summer!

The tiny nearby town was a popular resort town in the early to mid-20th century and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It only has one stoplight but packs in some great local joints. 

 has a sand floor with a full bar and stage that hosts free open-air concerts. 

 has stellar homemade flavors (get the churro ice cream) and 

 has great fajitas and margarita flights.

Your next great fishing spot or a historic getaway.

Now we’re getting to the good stuff: the beaches on the ocean. Rehoboth is the epicenter of the LGBTQ+ community and queens can be seen lounging in Speedos on Poodle Beach at all times of day. But it’s also very family-friendly, says Ebner, with a long boardwalk that has a small amusement park and a bandstand with free concerts.

The connecting town is picturesque, with everything from ice cream stands to bookstores. Fill up on shellfish at 

 or get some perfectly crisp calamari at 

Speedo clad queens, concerts, and the perfect Insta pic.

A fan favorite of horse girls everywhere, Assateague is a national park with tons of birds and wildlife — including wild horses. The beach itself is wonderful (just be careful horses don’t get into your snacks!) and the surrounding nature makes it great for an outdoors-y weekend trip.

 and make your way up the 37 miles of beaches. In Chincoteague town, grab a latte from 

 or get some surprisingly good Korean food from the 

 tiki hut. Camping is a popular option at Assateague State Park and can be a blast, but make sure to reserve your spot early and bring your own firewood!

Outdoor activities and wildlife sightings.

Washingtonians often say this is the closest “real beach” because of its size and 3-mile boardwalk. The boardwalk itself is complete with rides, crappy T-shirt stalls, and more fried food than you could eat. 

 vinegar-drenched French fries are non-negotiable. They've been an Ocean City staple since 1929. Down the boardwalk, 

 is the go-to for ice cream and milkshakes.

Beyond the beach, Ocean City is a party town. 

 is a classic, says Ebner. The Jamaica-inspired nightclub has multiple dance floors, Caribbean food, and tropical cocktails you can drink at a bar in the water.

“It’s a guilty pleasure of mine even at my ripe age of 40,” says Ebner. “The music is always pumping. It's a fun way to have a dance or two and just celebrate life.”

 has the best live music in town. And on your way back to D.C., make sure to stop at Crabs To Go on Ocean Gateway, which won the “

The chiller cousin of Ocean City, Bethany Beach is the quintessential Mid-Atlantic beach town. You’ll mostly find families there enjoying free entertainment and the safe, friendly beaches. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, which has candy shops, bookstores, and open-air concerts during the summer. You can also rent kayaks, paddleboards, and surfboards, as well as take lessons or hire guided tours.

Grab your mandatory hit of crabs and Old Bay at 

, where everything is served in brown paper bags on checkered picnic tables. Or head to the slightly overpriced, but still excellent 

. While it’s less crowded than Ocean City, it’s still hard to find parking on weekends and holidays. Ebner recommends showing up before 10 a.m. if you don’t want to walk a mile.

A family-friendly getaway with a quintessential boardwalk.

From family-friendly boardwalks to beachside party towns, here are the best beach getaways from D.C.

The Best Beaches Within 3 Hours of Washington, DC

The Best Beaches Within 3 Hours of DC

" reference anyone?) So bust out your social planner, here’s our 🔥 super hot 🔥 monthly 

Outdoor movies — a D.C. summer rite of passage — are officially back. NoMa’s 

 outdoor theater in Alethia Tanner Park is kicking things off on May 6 with “Pirates of the Caribbean.” If fighting off undead pirates isn’t your thing, catch “Mulan” at 

 on May 21. I’ll probably be hitting up all three.

 is a summer staple (don’t act like you didn’t love it back in your intern days). It returns on May 22 with one of our favorite D.C. bands “

.” It’s free but you need tickets, which you can get via lottery starting the week before each show. So bring your blanket, buy some sangria, give into the mosquitos, and pretend you’re a jazz aficionado.

 at the RFK Stadium grounds. It features multiple stages, local and national DJs, art installations, local food vendors, and graffiti artists. D.C.’s EDM scene is having a cultural moment right now (seriously, 

 in the world over Berghain 🤯), so it's the perfect time to become the rave babe of your dreams.

 — are closing their doors on May 3. It’s not too late to squeeze in one last reservation. And if you’re looking for something to fill the dim sum-sized hole in your heart, these 

Unpopular opinion, but May is perfect beach weather in the Mid-Atlantic. Starting May 22, you can take 

 from Dupont Circle or Union Station all the way to Dewey Beach for the perfect weekend getaway. Tickets are $55 and the trip clocks in at about 3 hours. Watch the sunset, throw back an orange crush, and bask in the knowledge that you have the entire summer ahead of you.

Something I do once a year as part of my “spring cleaning:” A bike tune-up which makes you safer and smoother on the road. They typically start at around $100 but are so worth it. Here are the 

More Things To Do In DC This May

Your Guide to DC in May 2026

You know D.C. is coming alive again when Porchfest season hits. 

 is on May 30. It’s a great time to discover local bands, hang out with neighbors, and soak in the warm weather. This year, both festivals are going to be bigger than ever, and it’s all free!

Here’s how to make the most of the events

Should I go to Adams Morgan or Petworth Porchfest?

It depends on your vibe! Petworth is much larger (150 stages this year!) and more spread out. The result is a more relaxed family-friendly vibe that includes much more walking between stages.

Adams Morgan is more like a big rowdy street party that’s all concentrated within a few blocks. Adams Morgan also issues free bracelets (available at the info booths in front of Marie Reed School) that get you discounts at local businesses during the festival. Both have a great variety of genres and local bands.

Some absolute essentials are water, sunscreen, and snacks (especially for Petworth). The pros know to bring blankets, foldable chairs, and a selection of your favorite beers and seltzers.

⚠️ Careful with beverage consumption though: bathrooms are few and far between!

 – it's less crowded, more spread out, and more relaxed.

 to carry kids and supplies as there is a lot of walking.

 for emergencies, as bathroom access is limited.

 like Music with Mr. Rob who is performing at Petworth Porchfest.

 – In Petworth, Mary's, Timber Pizza, and District Larder are great. For Adams Morgan, check out Taqueria al Lado and Himalayan Heritage.

The bands run the gamut from Irish Latin fiddle music to go-go and funk. You’ll find everyone from professional musicians to basement dad bands who perform once a year. It’s good to go in with a plan for who you want to see, but be prepared to be flexible as you’ll likely get sucked into random performances you simply can't pass by.

Here are a few performances we’re hoping to catch:

Always a fan favorite. Super talented kids ripping rock music covers like you wouldn’t believe.

— A queer pop band that belts out sick covers of songs from bands like The Beaches, MUNA, and Paramore.

A local indie-pop band that’s on the up-and-up and has impeccable summer vibes. Check out 

(5:00 p.m.) — The only Irish Latin live music band in the U.S. They make fiddles and bongos feel like a happy marriage.

— A kids musician performing at the main stage, always a banger with the youngsters.

(3:00 p.m.) — Eclectic indie rock mixed with retro garage-punk and a dash of Afrobeat, this band is full of veterans from D.C.’s underground music scene.

— This alt-pop band absolutely rips and brings you right back to your high school head-banging glory days.

 (7:00 p.m.) — With its unique mashup of go-go, rock, soul, pop, and R&B, this D.C. classic will close out Petworth Porchfest.

More Porchfest Tips & Tricks 

This summer's porchfests are going to be bigger than ever. Here are all the bands you can't miss, plus some tips for making the most of the day.  

Best Bands To See At Washington, DC’s 2026 Porchfests

The Best Bands To See At DC’s 2026 Porchfests

Margaret Kingsbury

Gas prices around the nation are soaring because of the U.S. and Israel’s joint attacks on Iran. According to AAA, 

 are $4.2 a gallon on average, up from $3.125 just one month ago. Here are some tips for saving on gas in D.C.

 gives you points for every dollar you spend on groceries to be spent at BP and Amoco stations. They also frequently offer 4x bonus fuel points days. If you’re a frequent Harris Teeter shopper, buy some gift cards on those days to rack up more fuel points. 

 also have fuel savings programs for members, although there aren’t any in D.C. proper. If you tend to go to the same gas station, check whether it has 

 keeping tires properly inflated, and making sure to drive the speed limit. As speeds exceed 50 mph on the highway, aerodynamic drag reduces fuel economy. While limiting air conditioner use helps save on gas, that’s often impossible in D.C. summer. Use a windshield shade to lessen heat buildup inside the car, and remove bulky items — it takes more fuel to accelerate in a heavier car.

🚌 Take Advantage of DC’s First Class Public Transit

If you’re willing to walk a few blocks, 

WMATA will get you most places in the DMV

. Take advantage of your local bus and train stops. Oftentimes, using a bikeshare can be faster than driving especially when you consider trying to find parking (Plus, you’ll get jacked 💪). It’s not always possible, but even just replacing a few car trips can make a big difference.

 is free and tracks gas prices in your area. Enter your address or route, and it will show you the current gas prices at stations along the way. It’s crowdsourced, and you can enter your receipts to earn points toward rewards, including discounts on gas. You can also play games to earn points.

Gas prices around the nation are soaring. Here how to save on gas in D.C.

Hacks To Save Money on Gas in DC

you told us cherry blossoms aren’t worth the crowds

. But what if you could see them without braving the Tidal Basin hordes? Here’s everything you need to know about the time-honored D.C. tradition, including where to get your blossom fix sans tourists.

Why Is DC So Obsessed With Cherry Blossoms Anyway?

In 1909, after hearing about First Lady Helen Taft and journalist Eliza Scidmore's 

 around the National Mall, Tokyo's Mayor Yukio Ozaki decided 

Unfortunately, when they arrived, the trees were found to be diseased and had to be destroyed. Ozaki agreed to send another donation, this time of 

These arrived safely and were planted primarily around the Tidal Basin and the White House. First Lady Helen Taft and Viscountess Chinda, the wife of the Japanese ambassador, planted two trees at the basin — a small ceremony which eventually grew into the 

 — The most common by far, their flowers are small and white in groups of 2 - 5 with an almond scent on a round widespread tree. (70% of cherry trees on the National Mall)

— Flowers are baby pink and full-looking with about 30 petals, and can be up to 2.5 inches across. (13% of cherry trees on the National Mall)

Identify all of them on the National Park site!

peak bloom will be between March 29 - April 1

 this year, but rumor is it could actually be 

. However, different varieties will bloom slightly earlier or later.

More than 9,000 cherry trees line streets, parks, and other spaces in D.C. Here are our favorite spots.

The main pathway at the historic cemetery becomes a tunnel of pink in the spring, perfect for some photo ops with your pup.

Over 1,200 cherry trees are concentrated in this small neighborhood in the suburbs, specifically along Kennedy Drive, Dorset Avenue, and Kenwood Avenue.

Located at the back of the gardens, these cherry trees are very old and much larger than others in D.C. They also bloom a little later than the ones along the Tidal Basin.

Just a 10-minute walk from Union Station, this is a good option for out-of-towners. The small park has a dense population of blossoms and plenty of space for lying under them on a picnic blanket.

This park has over 200 cherry trees and will host the annual 

 on March 29 with vendors and live performances.

Ok, obviously not underrated, but if you must go (aka you’re new to D.C. or your mother-in-law is in town), then go before 9 a.m. and avoid weekends.

Everything you need to know about the D.C. cherry blossoms, including where to see them without fighting the crowds.

Underrated Spots To See Cherry Blossoms In Washington DC

Underrated Spots To See Cherry Blossoms In DC

We've officially survived another D.C. winter, and it’s time to break out of hibernation. This spring we’re headed to Delaware, an underrated spot for some of the best getaway deals around. Travel writer Tim Ebner led us through 

 to Wilmington for $20 and head straight to the 

 — a former bank turned boutique inn. Rooms start at $219, but split two ways with rail fare it comes out to about $120 per person. The building is a former bank and still has its original vault architecture, a speakeasy bar that reminds us of 

 and a banging northern Italian restaurant.

 Take a 15-minute Uber across the Pennsylvania border to 

. It has one of the largest tulip displays in the world, cherry blossoms, and a sprawling English garden. The gift shop is dangerous if you love plants. Consider yourself warned.

Enter Your Nicholas Sparks Era At Bethany Beach

 in Bethany Beach is a Victorian B&B sitting right on the shoreline. The wraparound porch, Adirondack chairs, and ocean views gives big “anguished romance lead looking to start again” energy. In spring, weeknight rates start at $199. Factor in about $60 for gas and tolls from D.C., split two ways, and you’re looking at under $150 per person. Breakfast, afternoon tea, beach chairs, and umbrellas are all included. Rates spike to $600 a night in summer, so now is the time.

Delaware is a sales tax-free state, and you know what that means … outlet malls! The 

 along Route 1 are perhaps the only reason we can be convinced to leave the beach for a few hours. Rehoboth also has great boutique shopping along the main streets.

Perhaps the most budget-friendly and underrated option on this list, 

 in Felton has rentable cabins right on the water that go for $62–$89 a night. They come with a full kitchen, bathroom, beds, and a grill. Just remember to bring your own linens and kitchen cookware. Think of it like glamping.

 — bird walks, forest bathing, nature art classes, and night programs like owl and bat watching. Most run $8–$20 per person.

More Summer Activities Under $150

Travel writer Tim Ebner led us through his best Delaware trips for around $150.

The Best Spring Trips Around Washington, DC For Under $150

The Best Spring Trips Around DC For Under $150

Don’t get me wrong — D.C.’s public transit is stellar. But there are times when you just need a car: a day 

, a furniture haul, a late-night errand, or a 

. No money for a down payment? No problem. Luckily, there are plenty of easy ways to rent a car in D.C., including several that skip the traditional counter entirely.

 is D.C.’s most established carshare with vehicles parked in every neighborhood. The model is simple: you join as a member, find a car near you on the app, book it by the hour or day, and return it to the same spot when you're done. Gas, insurance, and parking in designated spots are all included in the rate.

 Membership is $9/month or $90 a year. Rental rates range from $15 - $20 per hour.

 Easy! The app makes it very easy to book. There is no need to go to a rental counter or get gas before returning.

 works similarly to a bikeshare, you can pick up any car using the app, rent it by the minute and return it anywhere in the “home” area for the next person. The zone covers all D.C.’s central neighborhoods including Georgetown, Anacostia, Downtown, Dupont Circle, and Arlington. The catch is the fleet is entirely Jeep Renegades.

Rates start at $0.45/minute, $22.99/hour, or $94.99/day — whichever version is cheapest for your trip automatically applies. There is no registration or monthly fee.

Easy! The app handles everything from finding a car to ending your trip. No paperwork, no counter.

Decent. They have 600 Jeep Renegades across D.C.

Multi-day rentals, visitors flying in, or longer road trips

DCA is the most straightforward option for longer trips. All major rental companies — Hertz, Enterprise, Avis, Budget, and others — 

, just a short walk from baggage claim. Pro tip is to book online and use self-serve kiosks to skip the lines at the counter.

Daily rates typically range from $40–$85 depending on vehicle type and company.

Straightforward once you know where to go. Pre-booking and kiosk check-in make it quick.

Tough. You have to deal with getting in and out of the airport and there is only one pickup location.

D.C.’s public transit is stellar. But there are times when you just need a car. Luckily, there are plenty of easy ways to rent a car in D.C., including several that skip the traditional counter entirely.

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Your Guide to DC in May 2026

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