About Washington DC
Over the course of 200 years, Washington D.C. has grown with the nation, and it now represents the very best of America. From its monuments to its incomparable museums, from the Mall to the steps of the Capitol, Washington offers visitors one-of-a-kind attractions.
The majestic Capitol building stands at the center of the city, allowing unobstructed views of the best known attractions and centers of government. The giant open space of the Mall is marked off by the various museums of the Smithsonian Institution, the largest cluster of museums in the world. The National Museum of the American Indian pays tribute to the original American settlers.
The National Air and Space Museum celebrates the nation's achievements in flight and space exploration, from the Wright brothers first biplane to the Apollo moon mission and beyond. Visitors line up daily for the Natural History, American History, and Science Museums to explore the wonders of history, science, and technology, and to view the famous Hope Diamond. The Smithsonian Institution also includes the world-famous Sackler, Freer and Hirshhorn galleries. Art lovers appreciate the nearby National Portrait Gallery and National Museum of American Art.
Looking past the mall, the Washington monument stands 505 feet above the city. It was the tallest man made structure in America.
The offices of the various government agencies take up much of the remainder of the city, and most offer free tours to the public. The White House also offers free tours, and the lines can sometimes stretch around the adjoining block to visit "the people's house." Just outside the city, the National Zoo houses thousands of animals on 163 acres of parkland. Across the river in Arlington, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier stands amidst the somber majesty of Arlington National Cemetery, where John and Robert Kennedy are also buried.
Vacation Deals
We constantly update Washington DC vacation deals and flights + hotel packages.
We also have great last minute Washington DC vacations or
if you just need a hotel, check out our discount hotels in Washington DC.
You can also book popular sightseeing tours in Washington DC and save your vacation time.
Getting There & Around
There are three major airports in the capitol region; all three are within 55 km (34mi) of Washington DC. Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI) is located in Linticum, Maryland, 16km (10mi) south of downtown Baltimore and 48km (30mi) northeast of Washington. Washington Dulles International Airport (pronounced 'DULL-uss') (IAD) is in Herndon, Virginia, 40km (25mi) west of Washington. By far the most convenient airport for Washington visitors is Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), which is right on the Potomac River near Arlington National Cemetery. National Airport is a regional airport and doesn't offer international flights, except to and from Canada.
Limousines, shuttle vans and taxis will take you between downtown Washington and all three airports. The fast and frequent Metro serves Reagan Washington National Airport directly; shuttles connect Dulles with Metro stations. Amtrak train service is available between Baltimore-Washington Airport and Washington.
DC's Metrobus system efficiently services the city and surrounding suburbs, as does the sleek new Metrorail. It is well funded and well maintained. Parking is available at certain outlying stations. In addition to Metro, two commuter train systems serve downtown DC from the Maryland and Virginia suburbs, but these are mainly commuter lines designed around the working week.
Attractions
Washington DC is full of attractions for all ages. Below is a list of some suggested things to do in Washington DC. You can also book some of these attractions online and save your vacation time.
Smithsonian Information Center
The world's largest museum and research complex is actually comprised of 15 specialty museums, and other affiliates, with subjects that vary from African Art to the postal service, sculpture to space exploration.
The White House
One of America's most recognizable historical and political symbols is also the home and office of the President of the United States.
United States Capitol
The magnificent domed edifice is both a grand symbol for and the working seat of the United States government.
National Zoological Park
Famous as the home of Hsing Hsing, one of a pair giant pandas donated by the People's Republic of China during Richard Nixon's 1972 visit, the 'BioPark' also has a rare blue eyed Bengal tiger and an intriguing innovation for its colony of orang-utans.
National Museum of American History
This museum combines unique displays that cover a period of time or a facet of life in America.
National Museum of Natural History
A mix of traditional anthropological exhibits, video, interactive display and a fabulous gemstone collection which includes the 45-carat Hope Diamond.
Lincoln Memorial
The majesty of Daniel Chester French's 19-foot high statue of Lincoln is complemented by Jules Guernin's 60-foot high murals depicting the Angel of Truth on one side and Fraternity and Charity on another.
Washington Monument
Prominent 555-foot-high classical obelisk where visitors are whisked by elevator to an observation deck for spectacular views of America's capital.
National Mall (The Mall)
Open area of gardens, fountains, trees and monuments stretching nearly two miles between the Capitol and the Lincoln Memorial.
National Air and Space Museum
The most popular of the Smithsonian museums features the Wright Brothers' 1903 Flyer and Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis.
International Spy Museum
Opened in 2002, the International Spy Museum provides interactive exhibits and contains the most extensive collection of spy artifacts ever displayed.
Georgetown
A charming neighborhood that, with its upscale boutiques and notable residents, is more than a college hangout.
More about Washington DC
|
