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Discovering the Top Attractions, Hidden Gems, and More
Washington, D.C. is the capital city of the United States and a hub of history, politics, and culture. It’s a place where the past meets the present and the future, and where visitors can explore a plethora of attractions, landmarks, and activities. Whether you’re a first-time traveler or a seasoned tourist, this comprehensive travel guide will help you uncover the best of Washington, D.C., from its famous monuments to its lesser-known treasures.
Top Attractions
No visit to Washington is complete without seeing the National Mall and its iconic monuments, including the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Other must-see attractions include the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Library of Congress, the National Archives Museum, and the Smithsonian Institution’s many museums, such as the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of Natural History.
Hidden Gems
Washington also has plenty of hidden gems that are worth discovering, such as the National Building Museum, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, the U.S. Botanic Garden, and the Dumbarton Oaks Museum and Gardens. For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to the Eastern Market, a historic marketplace that offers fresh produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and live music.
Food Scene
Washington’s food scene is as diverse and exciting as its cultural offerings. From classic American fare to international cuisine, the city has something for every taste and budget. Some of the must-try dishes include the famous half-smoke at Ben’s Chili Bowl, the Ethiopian injera bread at Dukem Restaurant, the Maryland blue crab cakes at The Capital Grille, and the French macarons at Ladurรฉe.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Washington can be an expensive city to visit, but there are ways to save money without sacrificing fun. Consider getting a Washington, D.C. Explorer Pass, which offers discounted admission to multiple attractions, or use the city’s bike-share system, Capital Bikeshare, to explore on two wheels. You can also find free things to do, such as visiting the National Zoo, attending a concert on the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol, or taking a self-guided walking tour of the city’s historic neighborhoods.
Outdoor Adventures
Despite being a bustling metropolis, Washington has plenty of green spaces and outdoor activities to enjoy. The National Mall is a popular spot for picnics, frisbee games, and jogging, while Rock Creek Park offers hiking trails, bike paths, and even a planetarium. You can also kayak on the Potomac River, go paddle boating on the Tidal Basin, or take a scenic cruise on the Spirit of Washington.
Historical Landmarks
Washington is steeped in history, and there are many landmarks that reflect its past. The National Cathedral, for example, is a stunning Gothic Revival structure that has hosted many national events, including the funerals of several U.S. presidents. The Old Post Office Pavilion, now known as the Trump International Hotel, is a historic building that offers panoramic views of the city from its clock tower. And the Ford’s Theatre National Historic Site is where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated in 1865.
Family-Friendly Activities
Washington is a great destination for families, with many attractions and activities that cater to kids of all ages. The National Children’s Museum, for example, offers interactive exhibits and workshops on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math. The International Spy Museum is a fun and educational experience that lets you explore the world of espionage and undercover operations. And the National Aquarium in Baltimore, just a short drive from Washington, is home to thousands of marine animals and habitats.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something unique and unconventional, Washington has plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to offer. The Mansion on O Street, for example, is a quirky museum and hotel that features secret doors, hidden passageways, and a vast collection of art and memorabilia. The National Museum of Health and Medicine is a fascinating but little-known museum that showcases the history and science of medicine. And the National Museum of African American History and Culture is a relatively new museum that explores the African American experience from slavery to the present day.
Natural Wonders
Washington is not just a city of concrete and steel, but also of natural wonders that are worth exploring. The Great Falls of the Potomac, for example, is a series of cascading waterfalls and rapids that offer stunning views and hiking trails. The C&O Canal National Historical Park is a picturesque waterway that stretches for 184.5 miles and offers boating, fishing, and biking opportunities. And Shenandoah National Park, just a short drive from Washington, is a mountainous paradise that boasts scenic drives, hiking trails, and wildlife.
Vibrant Nightlife
Washington may be a political town, but it also has a vibrant nightlife scene that caters to all tastes and moods. From rooftop bars and jazz clubs to craft breweries and speakeasies, the city has something for every night owl. Some of the popular spots include the 18th Street Lounge, the Black Cat, the Gibson, and the Dacha Beer Garden.
Local Markets
Washington is home to several lively and colorful markets that offer fresh produce, artisanal foods, handmade crafts, and live entertainment. The Eastern Market, as mentioned earlier, is a historic marketplace that has been operating since 1873 and features more than 100 vendors. The Union Market is a trendy food hall that showcases the best of the city’s culinary scene, from oysters and tacos to ice cream and coffee. And the Georgetown Flea Market is a popular destination for vintage and antique finds.
Beaches and Mountains
Washington may not be known for its beaches and mountains, but it has some hidden gems that are worth a visit. The Chesapeake Bay is a scenic estuary that offers boating, fishing, and crabbing opportunities, as well as charming waterfront towns like Annapolis and St. Michaels. The Appalachian Mountains, which stretch from Maine to Georgia, offer hiking, camping, and skiing opportunities, as well as breathtaking views.
Cultural Immersion
Washington is a melting pot of cultures and ethnicities, and there are many ways to immerse yourself in its diversity. The National Museum of the American Indian, for example, showcases the history and culture of Native Americans from the Western Hemisphere. The National Museum of African Art features a rich collection of African art and artifacts, from ancient times to the present. And the National Museum of Asian Art offers a glimpse into the artistic traditions of Asia, from China and Japan to India and Southeast Asia.
Art and Music Scene
Washington has a thriving art and music scene that is reflected in its many galleries, museums, and performance venues. The Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, for example, is a contemporary art museum that features works by some of the world’s most renowned artists. The Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a premier theater and concert venue that hosts world-class productions and events. And the 9:30 Club is a legendary music venue that has hosted many famous acts, from Nirvana to Adele.
Walking Tours
Washington is a great city for walking, and there are many guided and self-guided tours that let you explore its history, architecture, and culture on foot. The National Park Service offers several free walking tours, such as the Lincoln Assassination Walking Tour and the Georgetown Walking Tour. The DC by Foot company offers entertaining and informative tours led by local guides, such as the Monuments and Memorials Tour and the Ghosts of Georgetown Tour. And the National Trust for Historic Preservation offers self-guided walking tours of historic neighborhoods, such as Dupont Circle and Capitol Hill.
Architectural Marvels
Washington is a city of stunning architecture, from its neoclassical monuments and government buildings to its modern and experimental structures. The United States Capitol, designed by William Thornton and completed in 1800, is a masterpiece of neoclassical architecture that features a dome, columns, and statues. The National Cathedral, designed by Frederick Bodley and completed in 1990, is a breathtaking example of Gothic Revival style that features stained glass windows, flying buttresses, and gargoyles. And the National Museum of African American History and Culture, designed by David Adjaye and completed in 2016, is a striking example of contemporary architecture that features a bronze-colored lattice facade.
Historical Sites
Washington is a city of many historical sites that tell the story of America’s past. The Arlington National Cemetery, for example, is a somber but powerful tribute to the men and women who have served in the U.S. military, including President John F. Kennedy and the Unknown Soldier. The Mount Vernon Estate, home of George Washington, is a beautifully preserved mansion and plantation that offers a glimpse into the life of the first U.S. president. And the National Museum of