Nearest Airport
: Ronald Reagan Washington International (DCA)
at 12
Miles
Car: not necessary
Things to See and Do
There is so much to see and do in Washington, DC that you can’t see it all in just one visit. A well-rounded trip should include exploring some of the monuments, memorials and museums.
When sightseeing in Washington, D.C., the White House, the Capitol and the Supreme Court are key places to visit. Touring these impressive buildings will help you understand more about our government and its history. At the east end of the National Mall stands the majestic U. S. Capitol Building. Because of increased security, the Capitol is open to the public for guided tours only.
Although the most famous monuments and memorials are on the National Mall, you will find statues and plaques on many street corners around the city. Since Washington, DC's monuments are spread out, it is hard to visit all of them on foot. The best way to see all the monuments is to take a tour. Many of the monuments are open late at night and their illumination makes nighttime a memorable time to visit them.
Be sure to go to the Smithsonian Institution Building where you can pick up a map and information on all of the museums. These national treasures cover a wide range of subjects from art to space exploration. Plan to explore those you are most interested in, but don’t try to see everything at once.
Georgetown is the capital’s historic waterfront that today is bustling with activity. The area is a shopper’s paradise and the streets are lined with restaurants of every nationality. Take a tour of historic sites, do some shopping and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Explore a quaint historic town just over the Potomac River from Washington, DC. Visit colonial houses, churches, and museums and shop for antiques.
