Washington DC, is the capital city of the United States. Apart from its popular face for politics and history, the city’s softer side is also commonly known to travelers worldwide. According to some of the best travel sites, Washington, DC, is the number 1 travel destination in the entire US. Not only is it rich in history and culture, but the city has a lot more to offer. Home to more than 600+ parks, Washington contains plenty of museums, shopping malls, restaurants, monuments & memorials, art galleries, and many hidden gems available for tourists. Each year millions on people acros the world visit Washington to enlighten their travel diary. Any tour to the US is incomplete without setting foot in the capital city. Still, if you wonder why it is the number 1 travel spot, let’s find out.
5 Must-Visit Attractions in Washington, D.C :
1. The National Mall & Monuments
The National Mall & Monuments
- Entry free
A lot of Washington’s architectural wonders are related to its political history. Among many, the national malls and memorials are quite famous. Suppose you are a history buff and want to know more about the city’s past and present. In that case, visit places like the Lincoln Memorial (in memory of the 16th US president, Abraha Lincon), the Washington Monument (in memory of George Washington, the first president of the US), the World War II Memorial & Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and some others gems that will be worth visiting. Around these places, you will find different walking guides and hop-on and off services to provide better insights into the areas.
2. The Smithsonian Museums
The Smithsonian Museums
- Entry Free
Funded by a wealthy British scientist, James Smithson, 17 museums, education, and research complexes were built by the US government in Washington DC. The scientist had immense desire and thrust for knowledge and travel. His devotion to love and historical collections are presented in those museums and art galleries. Under the name of Smithsonian, these museums and art galleries consist of more than 150+ million objects which are a symbol of multiple regions around the world. Some of the popular Smithsonian museums include the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and many more. The amazing fact is, without a penny, you will be able to witness some fascinating creations of Earth, like The Hope Diamond (one of Earth’s most priceless), The Wright Brothers’ First Airplane, and many more interesting elements. You can also visit some rare collections of books and documents, interactive activities, science and space exploration systems, the national zoo, and many more things to explore. From children to the elderly, the Smithsonian institutions have something for everyone.
3. The U.S. Capitol & Library of Congress
The U.S. Capitol & Library of Congress
- Entry free.
Located in First St SE, Washington two The U.S. Capitol & Library of Congress are the most crucial features of the city. With eye-catching architecture and paintings, the US capital is a place where the nation’s laws are shaped for the people. On the other hand, a nearby architectural gem, the Library of Congress, is one of the biggest libraries and contains more than 170 million books and literary treasures.
In the US Capitol, you will find things like the majestic dome, Roman and Greek-inspired architecture, the “Apotheosis of Washington dome, Crypt & Whispering Gallery whisper can be heard), pools, and scenic views of the national malls.
While in the Congress Library, you will see the world’s largest collection of books, maps, photographs, recordings, and manuscripts. The library is also a place for treasures like the Gutenberg Bible, the Rosa Parks Collection, and many more priceless elements. The place is the center for people who love history and the arts and want to know the past and present of the world.
4. The White House
The White House
- Entry is free, but booking is needed for the tour.
If you know about America, then you must have heard the name White House. For many years, the place has been home to the US presidents and a symbol of American politics. The iconic building has a lot of significance. Leaders have made many crucial decisions from the building. Interestingly, what many people do know is that they can get a tour of this majestic building. Even though a tour requires permission and is not always open for commoners, it is worth trying to visit the remarkable residence. Inside the house, you will see a lot of portraits of former presidents, a 19-acre garden, a parlor, a spa, a dining room, a meeting room, and many other features. Every room is filled with priceless antiques and historical collections. Consider yourself lucky if you can manage a tour of the most remarkable house in the US.
5. Georgetown & Waterfront Park
Georgetown & Waterfront Park
- Entry free.
The Georgetown is one of the most charming neighborhoods in Washington. From the banks of the Potomac River to the Key Bridge, the park covers 220 miles with stunning views, fountains, gardens, boutique shops, and plenty of dining spots. The oldest area has ancient marbelstone, classic architecture, gigantic mansions, cobblestone streets, and trendy shops and provides stunning views of the Potomac River, Kennedy Center, Roosevelt Island, and Key Bridge. You can enjoy seasonal activities, festivals, kayaking, paddleboarding, or take a boat cruise to the river. A private tour and party at the pirate ship are some of the most attractive things to do in Georgetown. A visit with friends and family to this historic place will be memorable.
Best Time to Visit Washington, D.C.?
You can visit Washington any time of the year, but the ideal time to visit would be:
- Spring (March–May): for a pleasant environment.
- Fall (September–November): for lesser crowds and a suitable temperature.
- Winter (December–February): For low prices.
- Summer (June – August): usually the weather is humid and peak season.
Where to stay in Washington, D.C.?
As a first-time traveler, you might get confused about where to stay in Washington. However, there are plenty of options available for the tourists to stay. From budget-friendly hotels to luxury places, you can choose according to your own choice. Here’s a list of accommodations with price and location. You can select any of them for your stay while visiting the city. Remember, the prices are for 1 person and may vary in time.
| Approximate Cost Per night (for 1 person) | Name of the Hotels | Location |
| $100 – $150 | National Mall Hotel | Near National Mall, Constitution & Independence Ave (btwn 1st & 17th St), Washington |
| $150 – $200 | Courtyard by Marriott Washington Capitol Hill | 140 L St SE, Washington, D.C. 20003 |
| $200 – $250 | Hilton Garden Inn Washington DC. | 2201 M Street NW, Washington, D.C. 20037 |
| $250 – $350 | Marriott Marquis Washington, DC | 901 Massachusetts Ave NW, Washington. |
| $500+ | The Hay-Adams | 800 16th St NW (btwn H & I St NW), Washington. |
A journey to the capital of the world’s most popular country is always fun and exciting. Washington being the capital of the US, has a lot to offer its tourists. From historical wonders to political features, museums, libraries, parks, restaurants, and almost everything is easily accessible in the city. A visit to Washington, DC, will surely enlighten your knowledge and quench your thirst for a good tour.
