Levi KeswickThere’s no place like Washington, DC. The capital of the United States is filled with history and culture around every corner. From world-famous monuments to trendy neighborhoods. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, you will find something exciting. There’s something for everyone in Washington, DC. Here are some of the top places to explore when visiting this vibrant city.
The White House
The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States, located at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue N.W. in Washington, D.C. The house was designed by Irish-born architect James Hoban and built between 1792 and 1800.
It has been the home of every U.S. president since John Adams. “White House” is often used as a metonym for the President and his advisers. The house has 130 rooms, including 35 bathrooms, 412 doors, and 28 fireplaces.
The executive residence comprises six stories the Ground Floor, Second Floor, State Floor, and Third Floor, as well as a two-story basement. The property is a National Heritage Site owned by the National Park Service and is part of the President’s Park.
Visitors can tour the White House through various programs offered by the National Park Service. For a truly unique experience, visitors can also watch the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, located just outside the White House grounds.
Washington D.C. is the perfect destination for a quick getaway from New York City. There are plenty of Washington DC from NYC day trips that you can take, and you’ll be able to see all of the landmarks and attractions that the nation’s capital has to offer. From the White House to the Lincoln Memorial, there’s something for everyone in D.C. And if you’re looking for a little bit of history, you can check out the Smithsonian Institution or take a tour of the White House.
The Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a research center and group of museums administered by the United States government. It was founded in 1846 with the bequest of British scientist James Smithson and now includes 19 museums, 9 research facilities, and 21 libraries.
The largest museum is the National Museum of Natural History, which houses more than 140 million specimens, artwork, and artifacts. Other notable museums include the National Air and Space Museum, which has the world’s largest collection of aircraft and spacecraft, and the National Museum of American History, which contains such iconic items as the original Star-Spangled Banner and Abraham Lincoln’s top hat.
The Smithsonian also operates the National Zoo, one of only four zoos in the United States that the Association of Zoos and Aquariums accredits. With its wide range of exhibits and educational programs, the Smithsonian Institution provides a window into America’s past and present for millions of visitors.
The National Mall
Washington DC is home to some of the most iconic and significant historic landmarks. Chief among these is the National Mall, a two-mile-long park that stretches from the U.S. Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial. The National Mall is home to Washington DC’s most popular tourist attractions, including the Smithsonian museums, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the Reflecting Pool. Visitors can also stroll down the mall’s wide, tree-lined paths or enjoy a picnic lunch on the grassy lawns. Whether you’re looking to explore America’s history or soak up some sun, the National Mall is a must-visit destination when in Washington DC.
Georgetown
Georgetown is one of D.C.’s oldest and most vibrant neighborhoods. Located just across the Potomac River from Arlington, Virginia, Georgetown is known for its beautiful architecture, quaint cobblestone streets, and trendy shops and restaurants. A visit to Georgetown would not be complete without exploring some of its famous landmarks, such as the Georgetown University campus and the C&O Canal.
The United States Capitol Building
The United States Capitol Building is the seat of the U.S. Congress, the legislative branch of the American government. It is located in Washington, D.C., on Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall. The Capitol building is among the most recognizable symbols of American democracy.
The Capitol forms the origin point for the District’s street-numbering system and the city’s quadrants. The original building was completed in 1800 and was subsequently expanded with the addition of the massive dome. Like all United States federal buildings, it is built in a unique neoclassical style and has a white exterior. Visitors to the Capitol can take tours of the building, which offer a unique opportunity to learn about the history and architecture of this important American landmark.
There are plenty of places to discover in Washington D.C. From the historical landmarks to the museums, there is something for everyone in the nation’s capital. So whether you’re looking for a quick getaway or a longer vacation, be sure to add Washington D.C. to your list of destinations.
