Welcome, explorers! If you’re planning a trip to the United States capital, Washington D.C, prepare to be amazed by the plethora of historic landmarks and cultural experiences. This city offers something for everyone – from fascinating museums to eye-catching monuments, stunning architecture, and delicious cuisine. In this post, we’ll take you through some of the best attractions and things to do in Washington D.C, so you can make the most out of your trip. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler to the city, get ready to be wowed by what D.C has to offer. So, let’s get started!
The 30 Best Things To See And Do In Washington Dc
- Moonlight Tour of Dc
- Dc Monuments and Memorials Tour
- See Dc Private Small Group Half Day Tour
- Washington Dc Monuments Photoshoot Wprivate Photographer
- Washington Dc Private City Tour in Luxury Suv
- Washington Dc 25 Hour Capital Sites Segway Tour
- Private Group Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour
- Dc African American History Museum Multilingual Family Tour
- Washington Sight See Dc Bus Tour With Lunch
- Dc Washington Monument Ticket and City Highlights Tour
- Georgetown Ghost Story Walking Tour
- 4 Hour Private Washington Dc Tour
- Lincoln S Assassination Walking Tour
- Dc and Arlington in a Day
- Half Day Grand Tour of Washington Dc
- Dc Lights Night Tour
- Morning Monuments Tour of Washington Dc
- Dc Hop on Hop Off Trolley Arlington Cemetery Tour Cruise
- Washington Dc Cherry Blossom Tour
- Best of Washington Dc Vip Tour
- Visit Mount Vernon by Bike
- Stretch Limo Private Dc Tours
- All Day Tour of Washington Dc and Mt Vernon
- Moonlit Motorcoach Tour of National Mall
- Private Moonlight Dc City Tour
- Dc Highlights With Entry to Arlington National Cemetery
- Washington Monuments and Memorials Tour
- Private After Hours Dc City Tour
- Washington Dc 1 2 Day Hop on Hop Off City Sights Bus Tour
- Big Bus Washington Dc Hop on Hop Off Tour
The 30 Best Things To See And Do In Washington Dc
1. Moonlight Tour of Dc
Moonlight Tour of DC is the perfect way to explore Washington DC’s monuments and landmarks dramatically lit up after dark. Hop on board and get ready for a night you won’t forget. This 3-hour small group tour includes transportation between sites, so you won’t have to worry about parking or navigating the city at night. Your knowledgeable guide will provide informative narration about each site, including the White House, National Mall, US Capitol Building, and Lincoln Memorial. You will have the opportunity to get up close and personal with select sights, perfect for memorable photos of the capital city. The meeting point for the tour is located in front of the Starbucks at 11th & H Street NW, in front of the Grand Hyatt Washington. Don’t miss out on this captivating tour experience!
2. Dc Monuments and Memorials Tour
If you’re planning a trip to Washington DC and want to see as much as possible in a short amount of time, the DC Monuments and Memorials Tour is a great choice. This 3-hour sightseeing tour takes you to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, and the World War II Memorial.
With comfortable transportation by bus, you’ll be able to visit all these attractions without getting worn out or exposed to unpleasant weather conditions. Along the way, you’ll also learn about the eventful history of the nation’s capital through dynamic commentary provided by your driver and guide.
This tour is a great way to orient yourself to the area for future exploring, as you’ll see the city’s top sights in just three hours. Plus, with all gratuities included, you can sit back and relax during your journey.
The tour starts at 10:30 AM and ends back at the meeting point at 400 New Jersey Ave NW, in front of the Hyatt Regency Hotel. Please note that admission tickets to the U.S. Capitol and White House are not included in the tour.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to see some of the most famous monuments and memorials in the United States on this comprehensive tour.
3. See Dc Private Small Group Half Day Tour
Experience the history and culture of the nation’s capital with a comprehensive half-day small-group tour of Washington DC’s monuments, museums, and memorials. This 4-hour guided day tour takes you to see famous landmarks such as the US Capitol building, the White House, the Smithsonian Castle, Tidal Basin, and more. Leave the logistics to your guide and travel in a comfortable vehicle equipped with phone chargers, umbrellas, and a flat-screen TV. Say goodbye to the hassles of driving or navigating public transportation and explore DC with ease. The tour includes transportation from site to site, a tour guide that provides commentary during tour and answers questions, storage space for wheelchairs and scooters, and gratuities. The centrally located departure point makes it easy to meet and start the tour.
4. Washington Dc Monuments Photoshoot Wprivate Photographer
Enjoy a special private photoshoot in the heart of Washington DC and treasure memories of your trip for a lifetime. With a professional photographer, you’ll create special moments at the location of your choice. Typical locations include the Lincoln Memorial, Martin Luther King, World War 2 Memorial and the White House. In addition, you’ll be granted unlimited access to all the photographs taken within 24 hours and can download as many as you want. Share your memories with friends and family and let them see the real you in Washington DC.
5. Washington Dc Private City Tour in Luxury Suv
Enjoy a fully customizable private tour of Washington DC in a luxurious SUV, perfect for groups of up to seven passengers. Your experienced driver will provide basic information about the monuments, memorials, and sights around the city, while giving you the freedom to make stops at the attractions that interest you most. See all the major sightseeing highlights of Washington DC, including the US Capitol, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, White House, Washington Monument, Smithsonians Museums, and more. Take photos at some of the most important monuments in the city, including the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial, FDR Memorial, MLK Memorial, Korean Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, and World War II Memorial. Continue your tour through Arlington Cemetery, Iwo, Rock Creek Parkway, National Cathedral, Embassy Row, Dupont Circle, and Georgetown. This private tour in a luxury SUV is the perfect way to experience everything Washington DC has to offer on your own terms.
6. Washington Dc 25 Hour Capital Sites Segway Tour
Experience an overview of all the important places in the nation’s capital on this 25-hour Segway tour. After a 30-minute introduction to operating your Segway, you’ll tour the famous sites such as the National Mall Capitol Hill and the monuments. Learn historical facts about the nation’s capital all while having fun and riding with ease. Strap on your helmet and zip around the sidewalks and streets of downtown Washington D.C. on this two-wheeled motorized vehicle. Pass by the White House on a ride down Pennsylvania Avenue and discover stories behind the sites’ history. The tour includes a guide, Segway, training, helmet, and tips (which are optional). Note that this tour is not suitable for children under 16 years, pregnant women, or people over 260 lbs (118 kg).
7. Private Group Monuments and Memorials Bike Tour
This private group bike tour is perfect for those short on time, as it visits at least six top attractions in just one day. With just your private group and a guide, you’ll get the chance to see the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, White House, Tidal Basin, Jefferson Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Korean War Veterans Memorial up close. Each stop has a photo op built-in, so you can take your own pictures.
Combining visits to top Washington DC attractions into one day, you’ll have the chance to see views of Washington DC monuments closer by bike. This private tour is for just you and your group of up to six, and includes snacks, bottled water, and gratuities.
The meeting point is at 998 Maine Avenue Washington DC 20024, on the corner of Maine Avenue and Blair Alley SW. The activity ends at a different location.
8. Dc African American History Museum Multilingual Family Tour
Give your family the chance to learn about African American history and culture with a multilingual family tour of the National Museum of African American History and Culture. Walk to the National Mall and discover how African Americans influenced its creation while exploring the museum with a knowledgeable and entertaining guide. This fun and family-friendly tour highlights important historical moments relevant to all ages and teaches about the impact of African Americans on the shaping of American values such as resiliency and optimism. Don’t miss this opportunity to experience a unique and enriching cultural adventure with your loved ones.
9. Washington Sight See Dc Bus Tour With Lunch
Washington D.C. is home to so many landmarks and monuments that can be overwhelming to explore alone. That’s why we’ve partnered with a third-party company to offer a guided Sight See DC Bus Tour with Lunch. With an expert driver and knowledgeable guide, your tour will take you on an up-close and personal journey through Washington to see treasured monuments like the U.S. Capitol, the White House, the Martin Luther King Jr Memorial, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, the Korean Memorial, and more. Learn important historical facts and take advantage of the opportunity to get off the bus and take photos at each stop. During the season, your tour also includes a boat ride on the Potomac River. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience of Washington D.C.’s most notable landmarks.
10. Dc Washington Monument Ticket and City Highlights Tour
This half-day guided bus tour of Washington DC includes tickets to the Washington Monument, with reserved entry to avoid the long lines. Enjoy the luxury and comfort of a specially designed air-conditioned tour bus and complimentary bottled water on board.
Visit the outside of the U.S. Capitol Building and the White House, as well as famous monuments such as the Vietnam Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and Martin Luther King Memorial. Your guide will provide insightful commentary and accompany you at all stops, taking about 10 to 15 minutes at each location.
Take the elevator to the 500′ observation deck of the Washington Monument and enjoy breathtaking views of the city from all directions. You can also visit the small museum located on the 490′ level.
Experience the best that Washington DC has to offer with this unforgettable tour of the city’s major attractions and landmarks.
11. Georgetown Ghost Story Walking Tour
Meet your guide at the Old Stone House and embark on a walking tour through Georgetown, one of Washington DC’s most historic neighborhoods. As you stroll through the well-manicured gardens and Victorian row houses, your guide will regale you with tales of the area’s forgotten past – including haunted stories that will give you goosebumps.
One of the tour’s highlights is a visit to the Exorcist Steps, which were made famous in the film “The Exorcist.” Descend these eerie steps and discover the secrets that this area holds.
This family-friendly tour offers both shared group and private tour options. It includes a knowledgeable guide who will lead you through the historic streets of Georgetown as well as hotel pickup and drop-off. Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
Join us on this unique and fascinating tour to discover Georgetown’s hidden secrets and spooky past.
12. 4 Hour Private Washington Dc Tour
Explore the famous landmarks of Washington D.C. on this half-day private tour for groups up to ten. With the convenience of transportation included, you’ll have the opportunity to visit iconic attractions like the White House, the US Capitol building, Arlington National Cemetery, and the Lincoln Memorial. Multilingual tours are available in English, French, Spanish, and German, making it an ideal option for friends, families, or business excursions. You’ll enjoy picturesque photo stops in front of the nation’s top landmarks and have the chance to cover the capital’s major attractions in just a few hours of sightseeing. Please note that meals are not included in this tour. The meeting point for pickup is your hotel or other designated location.
13. Lincoln S Assassination Walking Tour
Immerse yourself in the history of one of the darkest moments of American history on the Lincoln’s Assassination Walking Tour. Trace the steps of the assassins and learn about the events that led up to the attempted assassination of the Secretary of State and the Vice President, as well as the successful assassination of President Lincoln. Visit the original exterior of Ford’s Theatre and Peterson’s Boarding House, and learn more about John Wilkes Booth’s plans and motives. This two-hour walking tour is perfect for the whole family and will transport you back to the Civil War era, full of intrigue, mystery, and betrayal. Join one of the highest rated walking tours in Washington and experience history like never before.
14. Dc and Arlington in a Day
This half-day bus tour of Washington DC with Arlington Cemetery is perfect for travelers short on time who want to experience the best attractions in the city without the hassle of navigating the busy streets. You’ll ride comfortably in any weather condition on a climate-controlled bus and explore the exterior of the White House, the United States Capitol Building, the Martin Luther King Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and more. Before the bus tour, you’ll also have a two-hour guided walking tour through Arlington National Cemetery, where you can view the Changing of the Guard Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknowns. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included for your convenience. Don’t miss out on this fast-paced and comprehensive tour of DC and Arlington.
15. Half Day Grand Tour of Washington Dc
Get a comprehensive introduction to the United States capital on this 4-hour Half Day sightseeing tour. Marvel at dozens of attractions, from the Lincoln Memorial to the exterior of the White House, the Washington Monument and the National Mall, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Arlington National Cemetery and the Smithsonian buildings. This tour stops at 8 top attractions, including the White House, US Capitol, Franklin Roosevelt Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Korean War Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, and Nurses Memorial. Don’t forget to snap some photos! For those who want to explore more, an upgrade option is available at checkout that extends the tour into an 8-hour full day guided city tour, including George Washington’s Mount Vernon. Come see the memorials, monuments, and other attractions that make up the American capital city like never before.
16. Dc Lights Night Tour
After the sun goes down and the tourist crowds have thinned, it’s the perfect opportunity to discover the nation’s capital on the DC Lights Night Tour. This 3-hour nighttime tour takes you to see the Lincoln Memorial, White House, and more in their illuminated splendor. You’ll save your energy and take a shared tour bus to numerous iconic monuments including the US Capital, MLK Memorial, and Vietnam War Memorial. With this tour, you’ll see top monuments without the large crowds and photograph the city from an ideal vantage point. Cover more ground in shared transportation and get an insider’s knowledge on Washington DC history from the driver/guide. This activity ends back at the meeting point at 400 New Jersey Ave NW. Don’t miss the chance to experience the beauty of Washington DC at night on this unforgettable tour.
17. Morning Monuments Tour of Washington Dc
See Washington DC’s most famous landmarks and monuments in just one morning on this 3-hour guided sightseeing tour. Your experienced guide will take you on a journey that combines walking and travel by air-conditioned coach, covering over 20 sites such as the Washington Monument, National Archives, Freedom Plaza, and Jefferson Memorial. You’ll also get to stop and take photos outside top locations such as the White House, US Capitol, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Along the way, your guide will share insider stories about DC’s politicians and historic figures as you explore moving war memorials, presidential sites, and government buildings – providing the perfect introduction to America’s capital city. Hotel pick-up is included, making it easy for you to start your day on this Morning Monuments Tour of Washington DC.
18. Dc Hop on Hop Off Trolley Arlington Cemetery Tour Cruise
Explore the nation’s capital with ease on the DC Hop on Hop Off Trolley Arlington Cemetery Tour Cruise. With over 100 points of interest on the itinerary and 25 popular stops, you can tour at your own pace with unlimited on and off privileges. You can choose between 1-day or 2-day tickets, and upgrade to include a tram tour of historic Arlington National Cemetery.
The Old Town Trolley tour is one of the top hop-on hop-off tours in the world, and has been named “Washington’s Best Tour” by the Washingtonian Magazine. Discover Washington D.C.’s major attractions such as the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, the Smithsonian Institution Museums, and the Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial. Expert tour guides share colorful anecdotes, humorous stories, and historical information.
Download the App to enjoy commentary in 7 foreign languages and keep track of your touring route with GPS bus tracking. Don’t miss out on this comprehensive tour of the nation’s capital with the DC Hop on Hop Off Trolley Arlington Cemetery Tour Cruise.
19. Washington Dc Cherry Blossom Tour
Enjoy the iconic cherry blossoms of Washington D.C. on a guided tour during the National Cherry Blossom Festival. Begin your experience at the U.S. Navy Memorial and hop on a luxurious sightseeing bus for a comfortable ride to see some of the city’s important sights. Listen to fascinating stories about Washington’s cherry blossom trees from your knowledgeable guide while taking in the uninterrupted views and photo opportunities of the beautiful blooms.
After the bus tour, take a leisurely stroll around the Tidal Basin with your guide to celebrate the springtime and immerse yourself in the beauty of the cherry blossoms. Learn the backstory of the National Cherry Blossom Festival and the significance of the cherry blossom for the city of Washington D.C.
The tour includes entrance fees and offers optional gratuities. Enjoy a live tour guide narrative on and off the bus for a fully immersive experience. Book now to make magical memories during the National Cherry Blossom Festival in Washington D.C.
20. Best of Washington Dc Vip Tour
Tour around the presidential highlights of Washington DC on a VIP tour by luxury tour bus. Spend more time to appreciate the landmarks listed on the tour and get a premium guided bus tour with live tour guide and amazing photo ops. Ride in a beautiful panoramic bus with all the bells and whistles. During summer months (April 1 – October 15), enjoy a boat cruise included in the tour. Visit the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery during the winter months (October 16 – March 30). Check out every memorial of the National Mall as you voyage around the city. Hop on and off as you please to visit the most important landmarks and hear the important history from your guide. The tour includes a live tour guide, transportation by air-conditioned tour bus, city walking tour, National Archives interior tour, bottled water on buses, and cruise on the Potomac River (April 1 – October 15) or visit the Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery (October 16 – March 30). Please note that the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users and high-energy individuals.
21. Visit Mount Vernon by Bike
Enjoy a full-day bike ride to and from Mount Vernon on the banks of the Potomac River or opt for a return journey by boat. Begin the tour by meeting in the Old Town of Alexandria to pick up your bike and helmet. Cycle along the Mount Vernon Trail and explore the authentic house and grounds of America’s first president. Lock your bike outside the estate for tour staff to pick up, and spend the day freely wandering the gardens and farms of Washington’s former plantation. Take a look inside the study of the man himself and get transported into the past. Then, at your leisure, board the pleasure boat of the Potomac River and return to Alexandria after a day well spent.
22. Stretch Limo Private Dc Tours
Enjoy exploring the best attractions of Washington DC in style and comfort with a private Stretch Limo tour. With pickups available from your preferred Washington DC, Virginia, or Maryland location, you’ll be whisked away in a luxurious vehicle to see the city’s top landmarks, including the White House, Jefferson Memorial, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and many more. This personalized tour lets you beat the crowds and learn about the city’s history and culture from your knowledgeable guide. All fees, taxes, and lunch are included, making this half-day excursion hassle-free. Confirm your pickup time with the local provider in advance of your tour.
23. All Day Tour of Washington Dc and Mt Vernon
If you’re looking for a comprehensive tour of Washington DC and a visit to Mount Vernon, then this full-day guided tour is perfect for you. You’ll be picked up at 400 New Jersey Ave NW in a comfortable coach bus, and the rest of the day will be taken care of by an experienced guide. The tour includes visits to top historical highlights such as the Washington Monument, Jefferson Memorial, White House, and US Capitol.
After exploring the city’s landmarks, you’ll head to Mount Vernon for a self-guided audio tour of the estate. This part of the tour lasts for two hours, giving you plenty of time to explore the property at your own pace. It’s also worth noting that transportation on the mini coach bus is included in the price of the tour, making it easy and seamless to explore this part of the country.
This tour is perfect for time-pressed travelers who want to see everything in one day. Your knowledgeable guide will be on hand to share stories and insights about the sights you see, making this a memorable experience for all. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to see the best that Washington DC and Mount Vernon have to offer.
24. Moonlit Motorcoach Tour of National Mall
Experience the best of Washington DC at night on a guided 3-hour moonlit tour of the National Mall and monuments. Marvel at the illuminated Washington Monument and Jefferson Memorial as you pass by 20+ top sites and memorials, and make stops for photos at 10 attractions including the White House and US Capitol Building. Listen to an entertaining narrated history of the capital city and get an overview of its inspiring presidential landmarks and moving tributes to America’s 20th-century wars. At checkout, upgrade to include self-guided entry to the Washington Monument for use the following day of your travel. Join this nighttime sightseeing tour for a completely different perspective of Washington DC.
25. Private Moonlight Dc City Tour
Experience the beauty of Washington D.C. at night during this private moonlight city tour. A driver/guide will take you in a private vehicle to visit Capitol Hill, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and other iconic landmarks and attractions of the city. Enjoy the comfort and convenience of your own private transport, as well as hotel pickup and drop-off within a 7km radius of Washington D.C. The tour starts at the meeting point on 400 New Jersey Ave NW or you can request a pickup from your hotel lobby or sidewalk. This activity ends back at the meeting point and doesn’t include food and drinks or gratuities. Book this private tour now and discover D.C.’s beauty at dusk with your loved ones or friends.
26. Dc Highlights With Entry to Arlington National Cemetery
Experience the highlights of DC with reserved entry to Arlington National Cemetery on this 6-hour guided tour. Your personal guide will take you to DC’s most famous landmarks such as the Capitol Building, White House, Lincoln Memorial, and more with 10 to 15 minutes at each stop. Learn from the narrated trolley tour of Arlington Cemetery the history of this sacred site, including stops near the Gates of Ord and Weitzel to see President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite and the U.S. Coast Guard Memorial. Walk through the cemetery and take memorable photos. Enjoy this informative and insightful tour with your guide leading the way.
27. Washington Monuments and Memorials Tour
Explore the city of Washington DC through a 3-hour guided morning tour of the top monuments and memorials. Witness the historical and cultural significance of the White House, MLK Memorial, US Capitol, and other famous landmarks with photo stops at 8 attractions. The tour will also take you past the National Archives, National Mall, Kennedy Center, and more. Hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as all fees and taxes, are included in the package. The meeting point for the tour is at 800 Pennsylvania Avenue NW in Washington DC, and it starts at 10:00 AM. The activity ends back at the same meeting point, providing you with utmost comfort and convenience. You will get 15 minutes at the National World War II Memorial and 10 minutes at the U.S. Capitol, but admission tickets are not included in the package.
Note that the tour is not recommended for travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions, pregnant travelers, and those using wheelchairs or strollers. Confirmation will be received at the time of booking. Get a chance to enrich your knowledge about the history of the city with the experienced and knowledgeable tour guides that will make your trip unforgettable.
28. Private After Hours Dc City Tour
Experience the beauty of America’s iconic capital city during this moonlit tour of Washington D.C. by van. This private tour takes you through historic landmarks and top attractions such as Capitol Hill, the Supreme Court, the Library of Congress, and more. Your expert guide will provide you with the local history as you make stops at each of these attractions. Enjoy a two-hour dinner in the restaurant of your choice (own expense) before embarking on a two-hour sightseeing tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off is included for your convenience. Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
29. Washington Dc 1 2 Day Hop on Hop Off City Sights Bus Tour
Explore the iconic sights of Washington DC with a Hop-On Hop-Off city tour. This open-air double-decker bus tour takes you to famous landmarks such as the White House, Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, US Capitol, Jefferson Memorial, National Cathedral, and Arlington Cemetery. Choose from 24, 48, or 72-hour ticket options and enjoy the freedom to explore at your own pace with the ability to hop on and off at any stop. Expert digital commentary will provide insight into the history, facts, and stories of the city. In addition to the city loop, you’ll also receive a 1-hour free bike rental and a $5 discount at ARTECHOUSE DC. Gratuities are optional, and hotel pickup is included. Don’t miss out on this immersive Washington DC city sightseeing experience.
30. Big Bus Washington Dc Hop on Hop Off Tour
Discover the top attractions of Washington DC on this hop-on hop-off bus tour. With the flexibility to get on and off at any of the nine stops on four different routes, you can explore the city at your own pace. Drive past iconic landmarks such as the White House, Washington Monument, and National Mall, and visit historic Georgetown and Arlington National Cemetery. Choose a one or two-day pass and enjoy an audio commentary about the sights. The deluxe two-day pass even includes a night tour. As a bonus, Madame Tussauds entry is included in this budget-friendly tour. Enjoy unlimited hop-on hop-off service and explore Washington DC at your leisure.
Washington D.C.: Answering the Most Commonly Asked Tourist Questions
If you’re planning a visit to the United States, chances are that you’ll want to visit the nation’s capital city, Washington D.C. As a popular tourist destination, many people have questions about what to expect during their visit, how to get around the city, and what to see and do while they’re there. This article aims to answer some of the most frequently asked questions about Washington D.C.1. How do I get around Washington D.C.?
Washington D.C. has a comprehensive public transportation system that includes buses, trains, and trolleys. The Metro subway system is the most convenient way to get around the city, with six lines that cover the city and suburbs. If you plan on using the Metro system, it is recommended that you purchase a SmarTrip card, which is a rechargeable card that can be used to pay for fares on all buses and trains. Taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars are also available for those who prefer more flexible transportation options.2. What are the must-see sights in Washington D.C.?
There are many iconic sights to see in Washington D.C., including:- The National Mall, which is home to many of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, such as the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the U.S. Capitol Building.
- The Smithsonian Museums, which are a collection of 19 museums and galleries that showcase the country’s art, history, and culture, including the National Museum of American History, the National Air and Space Museum, and the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
- The White House, which is the official residence of the President of the United States and is open for public tours.
- The National Zoo, where visitors can see over 1,500 animals from around the world.
- The National Archives, which houses the country’s most important historical documents, including the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.
3. When is the best time to visit Washington D.C.?
While Washington D.C. is a great destination to visit year-round, the best time to visit is during the spring (March through May) and the fall (September through November). During these months, temperatures are mild and the city is full of blooming cherry blossoms and fall foliage. However, these months are also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.4. What is the food scene like in Washington D.C.?
Washington D.C. has an eclectic food scene that reflects the city’s diverse culture and politics. You’ll find everything from upscale fine dining to street food and food trucks. One thing that Washington D.C. is known for is its seafood, specifically its Maryland crab cakes. Visitors should also try some of the city’s more unique food offerings, such as Ethiopian cuisine and half-smokes, a local specialty sausage.5. Is Washington D.C. a safe city?
Like any big city, Washington D.C. has its share of crime, but it is generally considered a safe city for tourists. It is important to take normal precautions, like avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not leaving valuables in your car. The city’s police department has a visible presence in tourist areas and helps to maintain a safe environment for visitors.How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Washington DC
Washington DC is a city steeped in history and culture, with countless attractions to satisfy everyone from the history buff to the nature lover. If you’re visiting DC for the first time, it can be overwhelming to decide what to see and do in this vibrant city. In this guide, we’ll take you through some of the must-visit attractions and hidden gems to help you make the most of your time in DC.
1. Visit the National Mall
The National Mall is the heart of Washington DC and is home to several iconic landmarks such as the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, and the United States Capitol. The mall is enclosed by two museums – the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum.
Pro tip: Download the Smithsonian National Mall app to navigate the area and learn about the exhibits on offer.
2. Take a Tour of the White House
The White House is the residence of the President of the United States and is a must-visit attraction when in DC. While it’s not always easy to secure a tour of the White House, it’s worth trying to book in advance as it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The tours run every day of the week except for Sundays and Mondays.
Pro tip: The tour booking process is managed by your Congressperson, so make sure to contact them to request a tour of the White House.
3. Visit the Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a group of museums and research centers that showcase the history and culture of the United States. There are 19 museums and galleries within the Smithsonian Institution, including the National Museum of African American History and Culture, the National Museum of Natural History, and the National Portrait Gallery.
Pro tip: Admission to all Smithsonian museums is free, but some of the special exhibits may require tickets. Check each museum’s website to find out more.
4. Explore Georgetown
Georgetown is a historic neighborhood in DC that is home to some of the city’s best restaurants, boutiques, and galleries. The area boasts some of the best examples of Federal-style architecture, and you can explore the historic homes on a self-guided walking tour.
Pro tip: Don’t miss out on visiting the trendy waterfront area and taking a stroll through Georgetown’s charming cobblestoned streets.
5. Visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is a powerful museum that tells the story of the Holocaust through artifacts, eyewitness testimonies, and photos. The museum aims to educate visitors about the dangers of genocide and encourages them to take action to prevent it from happening again.
Pro tip: The museum recommends that visitors book their tickets in advance as it can get very busy, especially during peak season.
6. Take a Stroll Through Rock Creek Park
Rock Creek Park is an urban park that offers visitors an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. The park boasts over 1,700 acres of green space, including hiking trails, picnic areas, and a planetarium.
Pro tip: The park is a popular spot for locals to go running, so bring your running shoes and soak up the park’s natural beauty.
7. Visit the National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is home to an extensive collection of American and European art, including works by Van Gogh, Monet, and Rembrandt. The museum has a range of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and photographs.
Pro tip: Admission to the museum is free, and the museum also offers daily guided tours to visitors free of charge. Check the website for more information.
8. Explore the Newseum
The Newseum is a museum that showcases the history of news and journalism throughout the world. The museum has several exhibits that explore the role of the press in shaping society and covers significant events such as the Watergate scandal and the 9/11 attacks.
Pro tip: The museum recommends that visitors purchase their tickets in advance to avoid queueing for entry.
Book Your Tour Now
Washington DC has an abundance of cultural, historical, and natural landmarks to explore. From the National Mall to Rock Creek Park, there are plenty of attractions to keep you busy during your visit. Use this guide as a starting point to explore the city and discover hidden gems that you won’t find in guidebooks.
Remember, always check the latest travel advisories and opening times for each attraction before you visit. Have fun exploring the nation’s capital!
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