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Welcome to District Adventures! Explore. Connect. Belong.

Starting college at American University means joining a vibrant campus and an even more exciting city—Washington, DC. That’s where District Adventures comes in! This new series of free, small-group excursions is designed to help you connect with fellow new students, engage with AU staff and student leaders, and discover the best of the District, Maryland, and Virginia (DMV).

Whether you’re watching a show at the Kennedy Center or ice skating through the National Sculpture Garden, each experience is built to spark friendships, pride, and memories in your first year at AU.

What are District Adventures?

District Adventures are specially curated trips happening throughout the academic year for new students during their first academic year at AU. From cultural outings to sporting events, these trips are designed to:

  • Build community and connection

  • Introduce you to the DC metro area
  • Support your well-being and basic needs
  • Integrate you into AU’s vibrant campus life

You’ll be guided by a pair of facilitators—an AU staff member and student leader—on each adventure, giving you a great chance to connect with AU mentors and peers alike.

  1. Make new friends and build your AU network
  2. Connect with mentors and student leaders
  3. Gain confidence navigating the city
  4. Experience AU spirit beyond the classroom
  5. Show off your adventures on social! 📸 (Follow @auorientation on Instagram)
  • Watch your AU email – You’ll receive exclusive invitations to upcoming District Adventures.
  • Come to NSFP Suite (MGSC 328) to sign up for District Adventures– Spots are limited (max 30 students per trip), so act fast!
  • Can’t make it? – Cancel at least 48 hours in advance or risk District Adventures privileges being revoked.
  • Waitlis will be used to notify students if a spot opens up.

On the Day Of...

  • Meet on the first floor of the Mary Graydon Student Center
  • Transportation: Most trips will utilize the Metro, so make sure to bring your U-Pass along! For some events, a shuttle will be arranged for roundtrip transportation
  • Tickets will be provided to you by our trip facilitators on-site before departure
  • Bring your AU ID and a sense of adventure!

After your adventure, you’ll be invited to complete a quick survey to help us improve future trips. Your feedback helps shape the program and lets us know what you want to explore next.

Here's a look at some of the exciting experiences students have already enjoyed through District Adventures:

  • 🎭 Musical Night: In the Heights at Signature Theater in Arlington, VA
  • ⛸️Winter Fun: Ice Skating at the National Sculpture Garden
  • 🐼 Wild Encounters: Trip to the National Zoo (with a special stop to see the pandas!)
  • 🖍️ Creative Vibes: Zine-making workshop at the National Portrait Gallery for Black History Month
  • 🏒 Hockey Night: Washington Capitals game at Capital One Arena (plus a retro hat giveaway!)
  • 🏀 Basketball Bash: Washington Wizards vs. Philadelphia 76ers game

Ech trip is designed to created unforgettable memories while helpping you discover DC with your fellow new students.

Interested in leading a trip?

Students can apply to become a District Adventure Facilitator by contacting Miles Feacher at mfeacher@american.edu. This is a volunteer leadership role where you’ll co-host with a full-time staff member from the Student Engagement portfolio.

Questions? Email New Student and Family Programs at orientation@american.edu.

Get ready to explore AU—and the city we call home. Your District Adventure awaits! 🌆✨