Historical Sites
Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, is home to some of the country’s most iconic and historically significant sites. From the White House to the Lincoln Memorial, there are plenty of unique historical places to visit in the city.
Let’s explore some of the most famous historical sites in Washington, D.C., to discover together:
Visit the White House
The White House is one of the most iconic attractions of Washington D.C. and a must-visit when in the city. It was the official residence and office of the President of the United States before its use stopped in the late 19th century. The White House is an impressive structure home to more than two centuries worth of presidential families, making it one of America’s most historic landmarks.
Although interior tours are no longer available to civilians, it is still possible to get close views and takes some photos outside. During major holidays such as Independence Day and Christmas, decorations will be put up on all facades as a bonus for visitors. Certain rain-or-shine events, such as the Easter Egg Roll, also open up many opportunities for people who want a great view from front lawns and balconies around the White House grounds.
Visit the Washington Monument
Standing at 555ft, the Washington Monument is one of the most iconic monuments in the United States. It is a 166-meter-tall marble obelisk that celebrates George Washington, the United States’ first president. It is located in Washington, D.C., close to famous buildings like the Lincoln Memorial and the White House.
The monument was constructed in two phases over almost 40 years, between 1848 and 1888. It’s made from marble from Maryland and granite from Massachusetts, with stones from five other states making up its inner core. Standing atop an 87-foot pyramid base, its shaft measures about 55 inches across at its widest point near its top. It tops out with a lightning rod designed to act as a grounding point for any electrical storms nearby and contains five points representing each U.S. state at the time of Washington’s death in 1799 (Vermont, Connecticut, Rhode Island, Virginia, and New York).
Visitors to this historical site have access to an elevator that will take you to an observation deck 500 feet in the air offering fantastic views of D.C. landmarks such as The National Mall and Capitol Hill! There is also a museum at its base telling stories of how this grand monument came into being alongside interactive exhibits relating to themes such as American innovation or our Founding Fathers’ contributions to American life today! A range of souvenirs are available within their gift shop, from postcards or keychains to full-sized replica sculptures or art prints representing this famous landmark; be sure not to pick up something special before you leave!
Visit the Lincoln Memorial
The iconic Lincoln Memorial, situated on the National Mall in Washington D.C., is one of the most famous historical sites in the city. As a monument to America’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, it is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Architect Henry Bacon and built-in 1922 designed the memorial to represent Lincoln’s presidency’s importance, achievements, and role in shaping American history. It consists of an impressive columned structure with a massive marble statue of President Lincoln inside.
Visitors can spend hours admiring the site’s immense exterior, interior decorations, and extensive grounds, making this an excellent place for family days or romantic evenings strolling around one of America’s most revered monuments. Of course, pictures are encouraged! The surrounding area includes additional spots connected to President Lincoln, such as statues honoring civil war veterans and other monuments to political figures from American history.
Museums and Galleries
The nation’s capital is already filled with great culture and history, but if you want something more hands-on and interactive, look at Washington D.C.’s museums and galleries. The city is home to some of the best museums and galleries in the world, and they are sure to offer something for everyone. Here are some of the highlights of visiting these fantastic places:
Visit the Smithsonian Museums
No trip to Washington, D.C., is complete without a visit to some of the world-renowned Smithsonian Museums. The largest museum and research complex in the world, it has 19 museums, galleries, and a zoo, plus nine research centers. These museums have collections of over 137 million objects spanning all science, art, and history fields.
Here are some must-visit Smithsonian Museums in D.C.:
- National Air & Space Museum: Focusing on the history and science of aviation and spaceflight, this museum was established in 1946 and is one of the most visited museums in the world, with over 7 million annual visitors! It is also home to many famous aircraft, such as the Wright Brothers’ Model 1903 Flyer, which completed the first powered flight by a man in 1903, and Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis from his 1927 transatlantic flight from New York City to Paris.
- National Gallery of Art: This renowned art museum feature works from many famous European artists like Da Vinci, Monet, and Van Gogh, as well as modern-day masters such as Jackson Pollock and Mark Rothko, among many others! Consisting of two buildings – the East building for classical artwork and the West for 20th-century moderns – it covers 19th-century American artwork to 18th-century French sculpture, among many more categories making it a must-visit destination for any art enthusiast in D.C.!
- National Museum of Natural History: Home to over 126 million specimens covering 4 billion years’ worth of natural history-related artifacts ranging from dinosaurs’ bones to fossilized plants or dinosaur eggs – this museum is an incredible place to learn about evolution as well as appreciate nature’s complexity! Some unique attractions include a live coral reef tank exhibition or their famous Butterfly Pavilion, where you can witness an array of colorful butterflies fluttering above your head!
Visit the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art (NGA) in Washington, D.C., is a grand museum that houses one of the finest art collections in the United States. It is best known for its works by European masters such as Rembrandt and Velázquez and its impressive collection of modern American art.
The NGA consists of two buildings on the National Mall – the East and the West – and features an expansive collection ranging from ancient to modern art. The East Building houses classic works from Renaissance to the early twentieth century and temporary exhibitions yearly. The West Building includes contemporary works by Diebenkorn, Hopper, and O’Keeffe and pieces from European masters like van Dyck, Rubens, and Leonardo da Vinci. And there are plenty more masterpieces just waiting to be explored!
You will discover photographs, prints, videos, sculptures, and various forms of 20th-century mixed media installations in both galleries, united in a beautiful mix of creative energy! In addition to its extensive permanent collections, the NGA also offers special exhibitions throughout the year that focus on particular movements or artists – ensuring that there’s something new to see each time you visit!
So come explore this magnificent space and explore thousands of years of artistic expression – it’s sure to be an unforgettable experience!
Visit the National Air and Space Museum
The National Air and Space Museum, located on the Mall in Washington, D.C., is a must-see destination for visitors of all ages. The museum will delight anyone interested in aviation or space exploration with thousands of aviation and spaceflight artifacts, plus larger-than-life IMAX films and interactive exhibits.
The Wright Flyer is at the heart of the museum, a recreation of the first powered airplane flown by brothers Wilbur and Orville Wright on December 17, 1903. You can also explore other historic aircraft, such as Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis or a Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird spy plane. The museum also has an impressive collection of spacecraft and rockets from human spaceflight beginning from its start in 1961 through present-day technology advancements. Finally, using today’s most advanced flight technologies, you can experience what it’s like to pilot a simulator to fly high above other iconic Washington monuments, such as the White House or Lincoln Memorial.
When you’re done exploring, visit one of the five dedicated store locations within the Air and Space Museum complexes – each filled with memorabilia commemorating your explorations that day! So whether you’re looking for children’s toys and books to commemorate your visit with younger family members or seeking out unique mementos from your favorite spacecrafts and jets, there’s something for everyone shopping at National Air and Space Museum stores throughout D.C., Chantilly (V.A.), Maryland Heights (MO), Oviedo (F.L.) or Elmira (N.Y.).
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Washington, D.C., United States, is a great place for outdoor activities with its stunning natural and historical sites. From exploring the various parks, monuments, and memorials, to strolling through the city streets, there’s something for everyone.
Here we’ll explore the many parks and outdoor activities this exciting city has to offer:
Visit the National Arboretum
The National Arboretum is a 446-acre public garden in Washington, D.C., and a part of the United States Department of Agriculture. Established in 1927, the National Arboretum showcases public gardens, trails, and the natural area. It is also home to one of the world’s largest bonsai collections.
Visitors can enjoy exploring the various gardens and collections within the Arboretum like:
- Azalea Walk: Featuring more than 40 varieties of azaleas planted along a winding path surrounded by blooming tulips and daffodils in springtime.
- The Dogwood Collection: This collection comprises Dogwoods from around the world, covering nearly 12 acres of rolling hills with hundreds of varieties, including shade-tolerant trees that produce fragrant snow-white flowers in spring.
- Crape Myrtle Garden: Consisting of more than 50 varieties on two acres for visitors to explore in different bloom cycles throughout early summer until late fall.
- Bonsai & Penjing Collection: The Bonsai & Penjing Museum shows over 100 specimens from seven countries representing over 500 years old examples from China, Japan, Thailand, and North America, among others.
Aside from admiring these various features at their leisure, other activities include walking or running on 11 miles (17 kilometers) worth of trails throughout the park or renting a picnic area for events or family gatherings.
Visit the Rock Creek Park
Situated in the northwest part of Washington, D.C., Rock Creek Park is one of the country’s oldest and largest urban parks. Whether you come for a short visit or stay for a few days, Rock Creek Park offers abundant activities and landscapes to explore.
Rock Creek Park stretches nearly two miles from Maryland to Ohio, with woodland trails and bike paths snaking throughout the park grounds. You can hike beneath a shady canopy of hardwood trees along winding roads, enjoy scenic views on a horse-drawn carriage ride, or take in all that Mother Nature has to offer from atop one of the many observation decks throughout the park. For joggers and cyclists, more than 30 miles of paved roads are available to explore.
Rock Creek Park’s Nature Center hosts displays featuring local wildlife and plants and self-guided trails highlighting wildflowers, waterfalls, woodlands preserves, and wildlife observing areas for visitors looking for something more educational. The Nature Center also organizes weekend activities such as bird-watching tours and yoga classes beyond its exhibits during certain times throughout the year. In addition, keep your eyes out for events like outdoor movie screenings held throughout summer at various locations around Washington, D.C.
Rock Creek Park will surely provide an unforgettable experience filled with fresh air, beautiful scenery, and plenty of outdoor activities perfect for kids and adults!
Visit the Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin is a large basin located in the Potomac River. It is a man-made area designed for recreation and relaxation. It is home to many of Washington D.C.’s most famous monuments, statues, and memorials, including the Jefferson Memorial, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial.
Visitors to the Tidal Basin can enjoy a leisurely walk or jog around its 1.5-mile circumference for stunning views of its surrounding attractions, including The White House and Lincoln Memorial.
The scenic beauty of this site offers an enjoyable time with family or friends throughout the year.
There are also several outdoor activities available at Tidal Basin, such as:
- Paddle-boating on the picturesque lake.
- Cherry blossom tree gawking in springtime.
- Sunbathing lengthily on established beach fronts.
- Playing frisbee across friendly grassy grounds.
- Renting canoes or kayaks right next to the waterfront.
Ensure you don’t miss out on one of D.C.’s most spectacular attractions!
Shopping and Dining
Washington, D.C., has excellent sites and a great city for shopping and dining. You won’t be disappointed if you’re looking for a souvenir or want to indulge in delicious local cuisine! In this article, we’ll look at some of the best places to shop and dine in the nation’s capital. Read on to find out more!
Visit the Eastern Market
Eastern Market is one of the oldest running public markets in the nation, and its open-air market has provided fresh fruit, vegetables, meat, and seafood to Washingtonians since 1873. In the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Washington, D.C., Eastern Market has stalls selling local produce, art, and antiques. In addition to a booming food culture, there are also charming cafes, diverse restaurants offering classic dishes from around the globe, and fantastic live music.
Every Saturday morning from 7 am-5 pm, there is an influx of shoppers looking for fresh produce from the farmer’s market; flea market finds on Sundays from 10 am -5 pm. During the summer, cool off with a visit to one of their rotating food trucks located just outside the north entrance on 7th Street S.E. Choose from classic favorites such as pizza or gyros or something new like falafel served with refreshing sides like hummus and tabbouleh. In addition, local bands can play live music throughout the day on weekends from July to October at Eastern Market’s main plaza stage on 7th Street S.E.
Eastern Market is also home to two popular restaurants: The Market Lunch and Rose’s Luxury, where lineups are sure signs that these eateries provide delicious choice cuts and lip-smacking dishes, including their specialties such as buttock clams, cheese fondue with crispy potatoes and cardoon and lamb charcuterie! So make sure to come hungry!
Visit the Georgetown Neighborhood
The Georgetown neighborhood in Washington, D.C., is full of history and character. Its cobblestone streets and colonial-style buildings date back to the 17th century and offer plenty of opportunities for sightseeing and shopping. Visitors can also find various restaurants with something to suit every appetite.
Experience the sights, sounds, and tastes of this charming city corner! Visit Georgetown’s shops, boutiques, galleries, and museums along cobblestone alleyways opening onto picturesque squares. Stroll along the picturesque waterfront before stopping for lunch at one of the many restaurants offering spectacular views of the Potomac River and Washington Harbor. Or wander amid street vendors offering food from all over the world.
It’s no wonder Georgetown has become a favorite destination for locals and tourists! In addition, visitors can check out some interesting local landmarks such as Tudor Place – a National Historic Landmark home with gardens — or The Exorcist Steps – immortalized in the classic horror film The Exorcist – making their experience truly unique! So be sure to explore all Georgetown offers during your visit!
Visit the Dupont Circle Neighborhood
The Dupont Circle neighborhood in Washington, D.C., is an exciting area featuring plenty of shops, restaurants, and other attractions. Located just off Connecticut Avenue, near the intersection of Massachusetts Avenue N.W. and New Hampshire Avenue NW, Dupont Circle offers various experiences and activities.
Whether you’re looking to explore this area’s rich history or enjoy some retail therapy and great eats, there’s something for everyone in Dupont Circle. The area is home to plenty of museums, galleries, bookstores & antique stores, and a bustling restaurant & bar scene. So it’s easy to find unique souvenirs for yourself or family & friends back home!
This neighborhood is also home to many upscale boutiques, such as Saks Fifth Avenue and Neiman Marcus, showcasing haute couture from top designers around the globe. For those who shop on a budget, second-hand thrift stores like Secondi Resale offer gently used fashion items at discounted prices. Additionally, Shop Made in D.C. sells goods from local makers such as jewelry, artworks, prints, and more, representing some of the most talented creators from Washington, D.C.
For all foodies out there looking to sample delicious fare while visiting Dupont Circle, don’t miss out on some local favorites like:
- Birch & Barley serves flavorful New American-inspired dishes & gourmet pizzas with seasonal ingredients, plus decadent pastry desserts & craft beer options, including their house-made brews;
- Open City Coffeehouse which offers all sorts of specialty coffees, espresso drinks, smoothies, sandwiches, and salads;
- Little Serow serves up authentic Thai cuisine;
- Estadio is a great spot for Spanish tapas that features an extensive selection of wines by the glass ;
- Fancy Radish is perfect for vegans with roasted mushrooms, tamarind vinaigrette, and other animal product-free items.
No matter your tastes, you’ll find something new to explore in the Dupont Circle neighborhood!
Nightlife and Entertainment
Regarding nightlife and entertainment options, Washington, D.C., has something for everyone. So whether you’re looking for a night out on the town, some live music, or simply a way to relax after a busy day exploring the city, Washington, D.C., has plenty of options.
From lively bars to award-winning theatres and everything in between, this list of nightlife and entertainment options is tailored to ensure you have a great time in the U.S. capital:
Visit the Kennedy Center
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a cultural treasure that draws people nationwide to experience world-class performances. Located on the banks of the Potomac River overlooking Georgetown, visitors are invited to enjoy free outdoor concerts as well as shows in several theaters, including:
- Concert Hall – a state-of-the-art performance venue featuring classical and contemporary music, theater, ballet, and opera productions.
- Eisenhower Theater – a grand theater where you can see popular Broadway productions, operas, dance performances, film screenings, and lectures by leading artists and scholars.
- Family Theater is an intimate performance venue showcasing family programs, including musicals, festivals, educational workshops, and interactive events.
- Theater Lab – a creative space dedicated to emerging work by new patrons in genres, including spoken word performances, digital shows, and ambitious crossover projects.
The center also hosts educational programs and workshops, interactive art displays; an expansive area for dining before shows; gift shops full of souvenirs; self-guided tours featuring historical elements about President Kennedy’s time in office, and art installations throughout the buildings. Visit the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC, for an unforgettable night of culture!
Visit the 9:30 Club
The 9:30 Club is one of the most iconic music venues in Washington, D.C., Located in the heart of the U Street Corridor. This well-known venue has brought a wide variety of musicians and bands to the nation’s capital for over three decades. From rock to punk to metal and more, you’ll always find something new and exciting at 9:30 Club.
Every week, the 9:30 Club hosts several live concerts by local and international artists. All ages are welcome, with most shows catering to 18-plus audience members. Unfortunately, the venue cannot accommodate wheelchairs but is assisted accessible for able-bodied individuals with disabilities. Patrons must purchase tickets in advance and can do so either online or from Ticketmaster outlets near the Club. When buying tickets at the door, arrive early, as shows regularly sell out within a few hours of entries opening!
Once inside 9:30 Club, enjoy their full bar stocked with craft beers or choose from a wide selection of spirits and nonalcoholic beverages, including sodas, energy drinks, juices, and more. Other amenities include:
- Cloakroom service where patrons may store any items they do not wish to bring in with them during their visit; it requires additional ticket purchase when collecting stored goods at the patron’s convenience before closing time!
- Food service is also available so patrons may have snacks while watching their favorite bands play live music on stage – fire-charred pizza slices prepared in an oven that heats 800 degrees Fahrenheit will tantalize your taste buds with unforgettable flavors!
Visit the National Theatre
Visiting the National Theatre in Washington, D.C., is a great way to experience the country’s capital city. Located on 13th Street between E Street and F Street in northwest Washington, the National Theatre is owned by the nonprofit organization that owns most of the theaters on Broadway in New York City.
The history of the National Theatre dates back to 1835 when Thomas W. Ford purchased a lot on 13th Street and began construction of a “temporary” theatre for theatrical performances, operas, and occasionally picturesque panoramic views of landscapes from nearby rivers and lakes. Since 1835, over eleven million patrons have seen performances at the National Theatre, including productions by famous playwrights such as George Bernard Shaw, Ntozake Shange, August Wilson, Neil Simon, Terence McNally, Tom Stoppard, and David Mamet.
Along with plays put on by its own resident companies such as InterAct Theater Company or Woolly Mammoth Theater Company — the National Theatre has also been host to major events like holiday-themed concerts with Patti LaBelle or A Soulful Christmas with Fantasia Barrino!
Visitors to Washington D.C. can enjoy the National Theatre’s vibrant entertainment culture through plays performed by its resident companies — feel welcomed into its warm embrace as you take part in an exciting evening of entertainment that ranges from classic theater pieces to newer works created entirely by local talent!
From Broadway-style blockbusters produced in collaboration with local talents, such as Finding Neverland or The Color Purple — to comedies like Waiting for Godot — there is something here for everyone, including fun-themed nights or weekend matinees perfect for family gatherings!