10 Must-See Attractions in Washington DC
The nation's capital is full of historic monuments, museums, and attractions for visitors to explore. From the iconic Washington Monument to the vibrant Georgetown Waterfront Park, Washington DC offers a wide variety of places to explore. With so much to see, it can be hard to narrow down your must-see list. This guide will give you 10 of the best attractions in Washington DC that are definitely worth seeing during your visit!
The National Mall
The National Mall is the epicenter of Washington DC and one of its most popular tourist attractions. This two-mile stretch of green space features towering monuments such as the Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. Back in the old days, a mall was a tree lined space for people to gather. It’s also home to the Smithsonian museums, which are free to explore!
Smithsonian Museums
Visiting the Smithsonian Museums in Washington DC is a must for any traveler. These world-class museums are free to explore and offer an incredible glimpse into the history, culture and science of our nation. From the National Museum of American History to the National Air & Space Museum, there's something here for everyone. You can spend hours walking through these interactive exhibits or take a guided tour to learn even more about each museum’s unique collection.
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most iconic monuments in Washington DC. This magnificent structure was built to honor Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States. Visitors are drawn to its grandeur and powerful inscription on the interior walls. At night it's lit up with a beautiful display, making it even more spectacular!
United States Capitol Building
The United States Capitol Building is the home of the U.S. Congress and one of DC's most recognizable landmarks. The building was designed by renowned architect William Thornton in 1793 and it has undergone numerous renovations since then. Visitors can take a tour to explore the interior chambers and rotunda, or simply marvel at its neoclassical architecture from the outside.
Washington Monument
The Washington Monument is the tallest structure in DC and a symbol of our nation's founding father. The obelisk stands 555 feet tall and offers stunning views of the city from its observation platform on the top. Visitors can take an elevator to the top or climb all 897 steps!
National Zoo
The National Zoo is located in Washington DC's Rock Creek Park and it is home to over 2,000 animals of 400 different species. The Zoo has been a part of the city since 1889, making it one of the oldest zoos in the country. It also offers a wide variety of educational programs for visitors to explore during their visit.
Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial
The Tidal Basin and Jefferson Memorial offer visitors a peaceful respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. This beautiful area is surrounded by cherry blossoms in the spring, making it an ideal spot for a romantic stroll. The Jefferson Memorial was built to honor Thomas Jefferson, one of America's Founding Fathers, and features an impressive marble statue of him inside.
Watergate Complex
The Watergate Complex is a collection of buildings in the Foggy Bottom neighborhood of Washington DC. The complex was made famous by the 1972 political scandal and it's now a popular tourist attraction for visitors to explore. Visitors can take a tour to learn about the political intrigue or simply take in the view from this iconic spot.
Georgetown Waterfront Park
Georgetown Waterfront Park offers stunning views of the Potomac River and is a great place to relax on sunny days. Visitors can take a stroll along the promenade or indulge in some retail therapy at one of the nearby shops. You won't want to miss out on this peaceful oasis!
Kennedy Center
The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is a must-see in Washington DC. This cultural center is home to performances from world-renowned artists, as well as educational and outreach programs that celebrate art and creativity. Visitors can also explore the building's exterior to view its unique architecture and artwork.
Washington DC is full of iconic landmarks and attractions that are worth exploring. From the National Mall to the Tidal Basin, you'll find plenty of things to do and see while visiting this amazing city. Whether you're looking for history, culture or entertainment, Washington DC has something for everyone! So check out our sample Washington DC tours, come visit and start making memories today!
