Washington, D.C., has never needed a reason to feel historically relevant. But in 2026, the city steps into a different kind of spotlight as the United States marks 250 years since the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
Rather than concentrating everything into a single weekend, the capital is treating the semiquincentennial as a cultural moment anchored by museum exhibitions, citywide festivals and large-scale National Mall programming that stretches throughout the year.
By and large, this celebration isn’t about reenactments or nostalgia. It’s an event that nearly every museum, organization and hospitality outlet in the city will tap into, ensuring that travelers feel they’re not just living history but are reminded of how history drives the present.
The city’s best hotels are following that same philosophy. Instead of heavy-handed theming, they’re leaning into vantage points, settings and experiences: rooftop fireworks views, private tastings, heritage-driven menus and symbolic design gestures. It’s a more elegant way to recognize a major milestone — and a particularly good reason to put Washington, D.C., on the travel short list.
What is America250, exactly?
The United States semiquincentennial — aka America250— marks 250 years since July 4, 1776. The official anniversary lands on July 4, 2026, but Washington’s programming spans the year, with the heaviest concentration in late spring and summer.
Expect major new exhibitions at Smithsonian museums and the National Archives, festivals on and around the National Mall, concerts, parades and even more epic-than-usual Independence Day festivities.
When to Visit
If you’re planning a trip, two windows stand out.
Late May through early June would be a perfect time to head out, both weather- and programming-wise. The forecasts are comfortable, crowds are lighter than in July, and the focus is primarily on culture. Non-European Union embassies will kick off parties in May, in honor of International Cultural Awareness month, with Passport DC, a month-long celebration of multiculturalism featuring embassy open houses, street festivals and more.
Late June through July 6 is the peak. This is when the biggest National Mall programming, cultural fairs, concerts and July 4 semiquincentennial events take place. It’s high-energy and high-demand — and also the biggest crowds.
Where to Experience the Fun
While hotels all over the city are getting in on the action, these three Forbes Travel Guide-rated properties offer an unforgettable blend of history, views and exclusive experiences:
The Watergate Hotel
If any hotel in Washington understands how symbolism and spectacle intersect, it’s the Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Watergate Hotel. For America250, the property offers one of the boldest experiences in the city: the Presidential Legacy Experience, which pairs a four-night stay in the Presidential Wing with a private luxury yacht charter on the Potomac from July 2 to 6, complete with bespoke dining by a private chef and fireworks viewing.
But the hotel understands that not everyone needs the full presidential treatment. For those guests, the property is also hosting a party at its rooftop bar, Top of the Gate, with a premium open bar, a buffet and one of the city’s best vantage points for the fireworks. Additionally, America250 rates start at $250 per night, plus a $150 food-and-beverage credit.
Either way, the appeal is clear: an iconic address, waterfront vistas and a front-row seat to the celebration.
Conrad Washington, DC
Modern, central and design-forward, Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Conrad Washington, DC, commemorates America250 with unique offerings. Its Celebrate America All Year Long package includes a stay in the Capitol Suite overlooking the Washington Monument and the Capitol Building, Sakura Club lounge access and a private American whiskey tasting focused on domestic distilling heritage.
Independence Day week gets its own moment with a 1776 to 2026: A Capital Celebration promotion consisting of themed accommodations, rooftop party access for July 4, patriotic welcome amenities and daily, family-friendly activities like live music, face painting and photos. Plus, the views of the Capitol from here are spectacular, as is the proximity to top-notch shopping and dining at CityCenter DC.
The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
The Four-Star St. Regis Washington, D.C. enters 2026 with a milestone of its own: the historic hotel’s 100th anniversary. The approach to America250 is appropriately subtle.
A transformed Astor Terrace will become the reimagined Caroline Astor Rose Garden, nodding to the brand’s matriarch and the nearby White House Rose Garden. Anniversary menus will honor historic dishes, including the famed signature bloody mary cocktail. Finally, the hotel will offer special room packages tied to the semiquincentennial and its own centennial celebration.
Visit ForbesTravelGuide.com on February 11 to see the list of 2026 Forbes Travel Guide Star Award recipients.
