What to See in Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is home to dozens of attractions including historical landmarks, governmental buildings, free museums, and more. One of the city’s focal points, the 146-acre National Mall, boasts 12 Smithsonian Institution museums and 11 monuments. The city also houses the three buildings representative of the three branches of government: The White House, the U.S. Capitol building, and the Supreme Court.
Stop by the U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum for deep documentation on Holocaust history, enjoy a family trip to the National Zoo, watch a free show at the Kennedy Center for the performing arts, or spend time outside at the U.S National Arboretum to enjoy cherry blossom season. Below are some great sightseeing ideas for visiting the Nation’s Capital.
National Gallery of Art
This stunning gallery includes works of art from a plethora of countries, artists, and eras. Its collection features roughly 141,000 paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures and forms of new media that stretch all the way back to the Middle Ages.
National Air & Space Museum
Interactive exhibits at this spot please both children and adults. The Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum maintains the world's largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artifacts, as well as related works of art and archival materials.
National Mall Monuments
Explore the swath of land nicknamed “America’s front yard” and you’ll find inspiring monuments and memorials, museums and family fun. Here you’ll find beloved attractions like the Washington and Lincoln Monuments.
The White House
Complete your Washington, D.C. trip with an excursion to the country’s most famous residence. Take a step into history with a tour – but be sure to submit your request as early as possible, as a limited number of spaces are available.
U.S. Capitol
Take a guided tour of the historic building where American leaders establish laws and create history. Visit the Crypt, National Statuary Hall, the Rotunda of the Capitol, and the Capitol Grounds. Tours are available every 10-20 minutes throughout the day.
Transportation
The easily-accessible metro and bus systems makes it possible to see many of the city’s most popular destinations in just a few hours. Many attractions are also within walking distance of each other.