Washington DC
The seat of government for the United States and where you will find all the famous monuments like the White House, Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol Building.
Washington DC in a nutshell
Washington is enormous, as one would expect from the country’s capital. It’s grand and vast and imposing and vibrant in equal measures, offering a wide selection of activities and facilities that befits its status.
You’ll find every type of entertainment, dining option, museum and shop imaginable here – and then some. This hip, happening city is the center of political action and every other type of action, too. In charming, lively Georgetown you’ll find students in abundance, as well as innovative contemporary restaurants and stores.
Downtown is filled with entertainment offerings and Chinatown offers a touch of the East with all its culinary treasures. Then there’s the New U district where live music is the order of the day and the National Mall, a treasure trove of historic and military monuments including the stunning Smithsonian museums.
In keeping with being America’s capital, Washington is home to a multicultural society whose cuisine is evident in specific neighborhoods, offering a melting pot of traditions, smells, tastes and sounds.
Washington has emerged as a powerful city, a modern metropolis filled with exciting adventures. Sure, you will want to spend time in its unmatched museums and see many political and historic monuments, but there’s so much more to enjoy.
There are too many sports events happening to mention them all, excellent theater and art to discover on a cultural journey, breathtaking natural beauty… And that’s just a taste of what you will experience in Washington DC.
Best time to visit: Come in the fall, when the weather is pleasant, crowds have thinned and prices on accommodation and airfare are cheaper.
Best Area for Sightseeing: It’s hard to pinpoint one area. See Things to do in Washington below for some good ideas.
Shopping in Washington: Georgetown is shopping haven, with every type of store, market and boutique including exceptional art and antique shops. Georgetown Flea Market is a great spot for arts and crafts, antiques and other treasures. Then there’s Downtown for department stores and Chinatown for Asian finds. Trendy stores abound in the New U District and the Eastern Market is a treasure trove for fabulous food.
Food & Restaurants in Washington: The city is a culinary dream come true, with an incredible selection of dining offerings. Be sure to visit the iconic Union Market, an indoor market where you can find culinary gems and fresh produce.
Nightlife: With a number of students living here, and a dedicated Happy Hour, the city is a delightful place after dark.
Things to do in Washington:
- Visit the White House.
- Explore the National Air and Space Museum with its flight simulators, IMAX theater, Planetarium and other fabulous finds.
- See one of the world’s most extensive collections of art at the National Gallery of Art.
- Stroll along the Mall, stopping off to visit numerous sights, monuments and museums.
- Visit Arlington National Cemetery to see the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the changing of the guard.
- Spend time at the iconic Jefferson Memorial and the Lincoln Memorial.
- Discover the Library of Congress, the largest library in the world.
- Take a guided tour of the spectacular Washington National Cathedral.
- Explore charming Georgetown with its stunning shops, restaurants and entertainment offerings.
- See the the fascinating United States Capitol that symbolizes American democracy.
Best way to get around: The city’s fabulous Metrorail and bus services will take you everywhere with ease.