Washington D.C. is a city full of amazing sights and experiences waiting to be explored. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the 17 Best Places to Visit in Washington Dc.
From iconic landmarks like the White House and the National Mall to hidden gems off the beaten path, there is something for everyone in this vibrant capital city.
Whether you’re a history buff, nature lover, or foodie, Washington D.C. offers a diverse range of attractions that will make your visit unforgettable. Let’s discover the top spots that showcase the beauty and excitement of this historic city.
1. Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is a famous building in the United States. It was built to honor Abraham Lincoln, who was a very important president in American history. The memorial is located in Washington, D.C., the capital city of the United States.
It looks like a big marble building with a statue of Abraham Lincoln sitting inside. Many people visit the Lincoln Memorial to learn about Lincoln’s life and to pay their respects to him. It’s an important symbol of freedom and equality in America.
Key Point
Things to do
- Admire the Lincoln Statue: Take in the grandeur of the 19-foot marble statue of Abraham Lincoln seated in contemplation.
- Reflect at the Reflecting Pool: Enjoy the serene atmosphere by the Reflecting Pool while taking in the view of the Washington Monument.
- Read the Inscriptions: Explore the inscriptions of Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Address engraved on the walls.
- Attend Ceremonies: Check for any ongoing ceremonies or events, such as wreath-laying ceremonies or speeches, which often occur at the memorial.
- Capture Photos: Capture stunning photos of the memorial, particularly during sunrise or sunset for beautiful lighting.
- Explore Surrounding Monuments: Visit nearby landmarks, such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Korean War Veterans Memorial.
Entry fees
- No entry fee
Timings
- It remains open for the whole day
Places to stay
- The Hay-Adams
- Hotel Harrington
- The Watergate Hotel
- Hamilton Hotel Washington, D.C.
- The Willard InterContinental
- The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
- Airbnb Rentals
Tourist Attractions
- Lincoln Memorial
- Reflecting Pool
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial
- Korean War Veterans Memorial
- National World War II Memorial
- Washington Monument
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
- National Mall
Location
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA
2. Washington Monument
The Washington Monument is a famous landmark located in Washington D.C. It is a tall, obelisk-shaped monument that was built to honor George Washington, the first President of the United States.
The monument is made of marble, granite, and sandstone, and stands at over 555 feet tall. It was completed in 1884 and is one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city.
Key Point
Things to do
- Visit the Observation Deck: Enjoy panoramic views of Washington, D.C. and its landmarks from the top of the monument.
- Learn about its History: Explore exhibits and displays inside the monument, detailing its construction and significance in American history.
- Take a Guided Tour: Join a guided tour to gain insights into the monument’s architecture, symbolism, and historical context.
- Attend Special Events: Check for any special events or exhibitions taking place at the monument, such as lectures, concerts, or commemorative ceremonies.
- Picnic at the Surrounding Grounds: Enjoy a leisurely picnic in the picturesque grounds surrounding the monument, offering a tranquil setting amidst the city bustle.
- Capture Photos: Capture stunning photographs of the monument against the backdrop of the National Mall or during different times of the day.
Entry fees
- No entry fee
Timings
- 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Places to stay
- The Hay-Adams
- Willard InterContinental Washington
- JW Marriott Washington, DC
- The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
- Mandarin Oriental, Washington DC
- W Washington D.C.
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC
- The Watergate Hotel
- The Jefferson, Washington, DC
- Capitol Hill Hotel
Tourist Attractions
- Washington Monument Obelisk
- National Mall
- Lincoln Memorial
- Vietnam Veterans Memoria
- World War II Memorial
- Reflecting Pool
- Korean War Veterans Memorial
- Constitution Gardens
- Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial
- Smithsonian Institution
Location
- 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
3. National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is a special place where you can see lots of amazing artworks. It’s like a big museum where paintings, sculptures, and other beautiful things are kept for everyone to enjoy.
You can visit to learn about art and see famous pieces by artists from long ago to today. It’s a place full of creativity and wonder, waiting for you to explore!
Key Point
Things to do
- Explore the extensive collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day.
- Take a guided tour to gain deeper insights into the featured artworks and their historical contexts.
- Attend lectures, talks, and workshops offered by experts in various fields of art and art history.
- Visit the West Building to admire works by European artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Rembrandt, and Vincent van Gogh.
- Explore the East Building’s contemporary art collections, featuring works by renowned artists like Pablo Picasso, Jackson Pollock, and Mark Rothko.
- Enjoy the outdoor Sculpture Garden, showcasing a diverse array of sculptures in a serene setting.
Entry fees
- No entry fee
Timings
- 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Places to stay
- The Hay-Adams
- Willard InterContinental Washington
- The St. Regis Washington, D.C.
- Kimpton Hotel Monaco Washington DC
- JW Marriott Washington, DC
- The Mayflower Hotel, Autograph Collection
- Sofitel Washington DC Lafayette Square
- The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C.
- Renaissance Washington, DC Downtown Hotel
- Grand Hyatt Washington
Tourist Attractions
- West Building
- East Building
- Sculpture Garden
- Special Exhibitions
- Educational Programs
- Interactive Installations
- Architectural Marvel
- Library and Archives
Location
- 6th & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565, United States
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