Top 10 Must See in Washington DC
Hey there, I’m Emily and I’m excited to share with you my top 10 must-see places in Washington DC. As a US native, I’ve had the pleasure of visiting DC several times and have explored many of its famous landmarks. From historical monuments to beautiful parks, DC has so much to offer. So, without further ado, let’s dive in!
Curious Facts and Top Statistics
- Washington DC is the capital city of the United States.
- It was named after the first President of the United States, George Washington.
- DC is home to the White House, the official residence of the President of the United States.
- The city has a population of over 700,000 people.
- DC has a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons.
- The city hosts over 20 million tourists each year.
1. The White House
As the official residence of the President of the United States, the White House is a must-see when visiting DC. I had the chance to take a tour of the White House and it was an unforgettable experience. Walking through the rooms and halls where so many historical moments took place was truly awe-inspiring. Make sure to book your tour in advance as they fill up quickly.
2. National Mall
The National Mall is a beautiful park in the heart of DC. It’s home to many famous monuments and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and Vietnam Veterans Memorial. I love taking a stroll through the park and admiring the stunning views of the monuments. It’s also a great spot for a picnic or to fly a kite on a sunny day.
3. Smithsonian Museums
DC is home to many Smithsonian museums, all of which are free to the public. From the National Air and Space Museum to the National Museum of American History, there’s something for everyone. I particularly enjoyed visiting the National Museum of Natural History and seeing the famous Hope Diamond.
4. United States Capitol
The United States Capitol is the home of the United States Congress and is another must-see landmark in DC. The building’s architecture is stunning and the guided tours offer a fascinating look into the history of American democracy. I was lucky enough to witness a session of Congress during my tour, which was a truly memorable experience.
5. Georgetown
Georgetown is a charming neighborhood in DC that’s filled with history and character. It’s home to many boutique shops, restaurants, and cafes, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll. I love visiting Georgetown Cupcake, which was made famous by the TLC show DC Cupcakes.
6. Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington National Cemetery is a somber but important place to visit when in DC. It’s the final resting place for many American heroes, including President John F. Kennedy and the Unknown Soldier. Watching the Changing of the Guard ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was a powerful experience that I’ll never forget.
7. National Zoo
The National Zoo is a fun and educational destination for people of all ages. It’s home to over 2,000 animals from over 400 different species. I loved seeing the giant pandas and the big cats, but my favorite exhibit was the Amazonia exhibit, which features a replica of the Amazon rainforest.
8. National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is a world-renowned museum that’s home to over 150,000 works of art. From Renaissance masterpieces to modern art, there’s something for everyone. I particularly enjoyed seeing the famous paintings by Vincent van Gogh and Johannes Vermeer.
9. Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin is a man-made reservoir that’s surrounded by cherry blossom trees. It’s one of the most beautiful spots in DC, especially in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom. I highly recommend taking a walk around the Tidal Basin and admiring the stunning views.
10. Embassy Row
Embassy Row is a stretch of Massachusetts Avenue that’s home to many of the foreign embassies in DC. The architecture of the buildings is stunning and each embassy has its own unique character. I loved visiting the Embassy of Japan and learning about Japanese culture.
FAQs
1. What’s the best time of year to visit DC?
DC is a great destination year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
2. How do I book a tour of the White House?
You can request a tour of the White House through your member of Congress, but make sure to book well in advance as tours fill up quickly.
3. Are the Smithsonian museums really free?
Yes, all Smithsonian museums in DC are free to the public.
4. Can I visit the National Mall at night?
Yes, the National Mall is open 24 hours a day and is a beautiful spot to visit at night.
5. Is it easy to get around DC?
DC has a great public transportation system, including a subway system (known as the Metro) and buses. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available.
Thanks for reading and I hope this article has inspired you to visit some of DC’s amazing landmarks. Happy travels!