Some of the Best things to do in Washington, DC.
Before we tell you the best things to do in Washington DC let me tell you some important facts. Washington, DC, the U.S. Capital, is a compact city on the Potomac River, bordering the states of Maryland and Virginia.
It is defined by imposing neoclassical monuments and buildings, including the iconic ones that house the federal government’s 3 branches: the Capitol, White House and Supreme Court.
The city is also home to iconic museums and accessible outside
spaces.
Hotels in Washington DC
Booking.comThings to do in Washington DC if your are visiting for the history, politics or museums.
Whether you are planning to visit the city for the history, politics, or the museums, you’ll discover countless reasons to stay.
Between upscale dining, a diversity of casual restaurants, distinguished fine arts, and vibrant cultural scenes, every inch of the U.S. Capital exhibits its legendary past and dynamic community.
Whatever you vibe with, you’ll find a plethora of things to do in Washington, D.C.
The White House
Residence of the president of the U.S., the White House is one of America’s most recognizable historical and political symbols.
Modeled on Ireland’s Leinster House, The White House was constructed from 1792 to 1800.
However, it has been renovated several times over the course of a century. When looking to visit, you can schedule a free-of-charge tour.
However, it is first come first serve and the number of spots is limited. So visitors can submit their requests between 3 months and 21 days in advance.
The United States National Arboretum
Established in 1926 by Congress, The United States National Arboretum occupies 446 acres on the west bank of the Anacostia River.
There are more than 7,000 plants with a special collection of azaleas, bonsai, camellias, hollies, apples trees, and slow-growing conifers.
The grounds and museum open to the public every day except on federal holidays.
The Washington Monument
Once the tallest structure in the world at its completion in 1884, the Washington Monument stands at 555 feet and 5 inches tall.
Currently, the monument is both the tallest structure made mostly of stones and the tallest obelisk in the world.
Nowadays, visitors can ride one of the Monument’s glass-encased elevators to the top observation deck and enjoy 360 degrees views of the city.
For a clear picture-perfect of the White House, Capitol, Lincoln Memorial and Tidal Basin, remember to visit the observation at the top of the monument.
The visits are free of charge with a limited amount of tickets available. So plan your visit ahead of time and learn how you can get tickets.
Use the map to search the best vacation rentals available in Washington DC
Booking.comMuseums
Washington DC is in a league of its own when it comes to world-class museums that offer diverse experiences with art, history, culture, science and nature. Many of which are free.
You can visit the National Gallery of Art where you’ll see over 140,000 paintings, drawings, photos, and sculptures.
Or explore the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History which houses 146 millions of specimens and objects and is the world’s largest collection of history.
Another museum you can check out is the National Air & Space Museum home to the biggest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world.
Permanent exhibitions in the museum detail the history of jet aviation, space travel and satellite communications.
You can always visit the National Museum of African American Culture, the National Archives Museum where you will find the three most historically important documents in America: The Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
The best part about museums in Washington, DC, most of them are free of charge.
The Lincoln Memorial
Standing across from the Washington Monument and located in the western end of the National Mall , the Lincoln Memorial pays tribute to Abraham Lincoln, America’s 16th president.
The handsome marble columns that are surrounded by greenery are part of a design inspired by ancient Greek temples.
Also, there are 36 columns each one representing one state in the U.S. at the time of president Lincoln’s death.
The interior has 3 chambers and the central chamber houses a 19-foot tall statue of Lincoln.
You can best view the Lincoln Memorial across the Reflecting Pool which beautifully illuminate the monument.
This American National monument is open 24 hours a day all year long with Rangers on duty.
The National Mall
Located in the center of Washington DC, The National Mall is a three-lined boulevard.
Stretching over 2 miles with the Lincoln Memorial and The U.S Capitol on its west and east end. The idea for The National Mall began in 1971 when President Washington asked a French
Engineer to create a plan for the country’s capital.
Also known as the “America’s front yard,” The National Mall receives around 24 millions visitors a year.
Making this place the most visited park in the United States. With its majestic monuments and open spaces, it is a popular venue for civic celebrations and rallies , including the presidential inauguration.
Six Flags America
Six Flags America offers a full day of fun just 30 minutes from downtown Washington, DC.
This theme park features more than 100 rides, shows, and the area’s largest water park.
The park is open April through October and features live entertainment and hosts special events for spring break, Mother’s Day, July 4th, Father’s Day, Halloween, and more.
The best place to grab a quick bite in Washington DC.
While exploring Washington DC, you would like to know where the best place to grab a quick bite is.
No worries, we have some suggestions for you to try when visiting this city.
These are just some recommendations to help you plan for eating and drinking your way through the nation’s capital.
Daytime
Maketto, a Cambodian and Thai-inspired restaurant on H Street which is also a high-end fashion store and coffee spot.
Hill Country Barbecue Market for American southern flavors. There is a downstairs bar with a little bit of cheesy music. Grab a quick drink and relax.
Timber Pizza Company is where you can grab some of the best pizza in the city.
Thomas Sweet Ice Cream Co. is our best suggestion.
Dinning
Zenebech offers Ethiopian cuisine, a must have when visiting Washington DC.
Kinship is located in one of the coolest neighborhoods in DC right now. The lobster French toast is one of the customer’s favorites.
Clearly there is much more to do in Washington DC whether you are visiting for a few days or a few weeks. Remember to plan ahead if you are looking to visit The White House and The Washington Monument.
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