Find the latest coronavirus-related updates on attractions, museums, venues, festivals, events and more
The coronavirus pandemic has affected events, attractions and other businesses throughout the Washington, DC area. The city is currently in Phase Two of recovery, which allows many businesses to reopen. Make sure to check out our list of reopened businesses and read below for more details on restaurants, attractions and museums, including helpful safety information.
During Phase Two, the DC government discourages non-essential travel, while recommending individuals continue to socially distance and wear face coverings. Read more up-to-date information about traveling to the city to ensure the health and safety of visitors. Looking for upcoming events? While many in-person gatherings have been impacted, local businesses, museums and festivals are hosting virtual events, which we’re tracking on weekdays and weekends.
Updated as of July 2, 2020
What’s Open/Reopening During Phase Two
Buddy Secor / George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Museums/Attractions
Museums, galleries and the National Zoo may open, but with limited capacity of up to 50 people in enclosed rooms or exhibit spaces. Outdoor spaces for museums may allow greater access. Events are permitted but with a max capacity of 50 people. Employees and patrons should socially distance and wear face coverings at all times. Food service cafes and retail are allowed to open in line with industry standards. Guided tours and large group tours are not allowed. Read more.
- International Spy Museum is open daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. You must get advance tickets and abide by social distancing guidelines and mask requirements. Learn more.
- George Washington’s Mount Vernon is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., non-members should buy tickets online, guests and staff are required to wear face coverings and must social distance. Learn more.
- Glenstone Museum is open Thursday to Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Advance reservations required, tickets released two weeks in advance on Mondays at 10 a.m. Visits are limited to groups to 5 people. Additionally, The Pavilions will reopen in a limited capacity beginning July 23.
- Museum of the Bible is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tickets, face masks and social distancing required. Use complimentary styluses on touchscreens. Read more “Thou Shalts”.
- ARTECHOUSE – Will reopen July 9; make sure to read the museum’s safety protocols before planning a trip.
Restaurants
Service is open for outdoor dining, and indoor dining at 50-percent capacity. Bar areas are only open for seating without a bartender present. Tables are limited to 6 people max. Read more about the requirements for restaurants and peruse our list of open businesses, which includes restaurants. You can also check the status on outdoor dining options including beer gardens, patios and rooftop restaurants. Takeout and delivery service also remains a safe dining option.
Parks/Gardens/Recreation
Dog parks, golf courses, parks, tennis courts, tracks and fields opened in Phase One. Capacity for public gatherings is now at 50 people. Visitors should socially distance and remain 6 feet from one another. Recreation centers, bowling alleys, climbing gyms, squash or racquetball clubs, skating rinks and skateboard parks may open with a 50-person capacity or at 50 percent capacity in Phase Two. Playgrounds remain closed. Read more about the city’s requirements and note that outdoor attractions like the National Park Service Sites, Monuments and Memorials at the National Mall and around the city remain open. You can also learn more about DC’s parks and gardens and read details of currently reopened sites below.
- The Thompson Boat Center and The Wharf Boathouse have reopened by reservation only. Guests must wear masks at all times on dock and during launch and maintain social distancing. Learn more.
- Hillwood Estate, Museum & Gardens is open and requires advance reservations and social distancing. Learn more.
- Glenstone Museum requires advance reservations, limits groups to 5 people. Learn more.
- Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., with limited number of visitors, required social distancing and face coverings suggested. Onsite buildings and bathroom are closed. Learn more.
- U.S. National Arboretum has reopened on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1-5 p.m. and will limit the number of guests. Learn more.
- National Gallery of Art’s Sculpture Garden will reopen on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. with limited capacity requiring social distancing and masks for kids ages 2 and up. Learn more.
- George Washington’s Mount Vernon – Open from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Read about the estate’s safety protocols.