5 Best, Unique Washington DC Museums and Attractions

Washington DC is one of the biggest tourist destinations in the country, and visitors flock to the area all throughout the year. Of course there are plenty of famous, notable attractions, including all of the prominent monuments and the Smithsonian museums. But what about something a bit more unique and engaging?

Here's a list of 5 of the best museums and attractions in the Washington D.C. area that can be perfect for both tourists and locals. Whether you're entertaining visiting friends and relatives, or you want a fun weekend activity, you can put these unique, fun DC attractions and activities to use.

5 Unique and Fun Washington DC Attractions and Activities

International Spy Museum - 800 F St NW, (202) 654-0950

Do you have what it takes to be a spy? Find out for yourself at the International Spy Museum. Go inside the Cold War, World War II, the Civil War and all times before and since, and see a history of espionage tales and equipment. Adult admission is $18 and child admission is $15, and there are also special events and admissions, including Operation Spy and Spy in the City special events and interactive experiences. Open 7 days per week, hours vary from 9 am to 7 pm and 10 am to 6 pm.

Crime and Punishment Museum - 575 7th Street NW, (202) 621-5567

The National Museum of Crime and Punishment offers a unique take on every aspect of crime and the law, from a history of crime and crime fighting, to a full-scale model police station and replica jail cell, the America's Most Wanted Studio and perhaps the biggest attraction, the CSI Experience. Adult admission is $20 and child admission is $17, although cheaper prices are sometimes available online. Opened every day of the week, with hours ranging from 9 am to 9 pm on Mondays-Saturdays in the summer, to 10 to 8 during the rest of the year.

Newseum - 555 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, (202) 292-6100

The Newseum offers a unique approach to the country's biggest news events throughout its history, offering an interactive and educational experience that offers a fresh take on the familiar. It's more about the news and the coverage than the events themselves. Different exhibits are based on everything from individual news agencies and companies, to major moments in history such as 9/11 and more. Regular adult admission is $20 and youth admission is $13. The Newseum is open every day of the week from 9 am to 5 pm.

Segway Tours

If you absolutely must do the monuments routine, then why not do it in a fraction of the time and without all of the walking, riding around town on your own personal Segway. Segway tours have become a popular activity for visiting tourists, and you'll often find flocks of about a dozen individuals cruising around and following guides to all of the major destinations. A handful of different companies offer the service, including City Segway Tours, Capital Segway and Segs in the City, with tours of various lengths, costs and routes.

National Geographic Museum - 1145 17th Street NW

Find a changing collection of exhibits, taking an in-depth look at various ages throughout time, individuals, societies, animals and more. One current exhibit is Da Vinci - the Genius, and various films, and special events and programs are offered. Great artifacts of all kinds are always available for viewing and the Terra Cotta Warriors display created a surge of popularity. Adult admission is $12 and child admission is $6, although some free events are available as well.