Washington, D.C. has more wonderful things to do and see than you will be able to accomplish in one visit. These top ten attractions are the cream of the crop, from which you will be able to create your own personalized itinerary. Depending on your preferences and time constraints, any or all of these choices are sure to enhance your visit with unforgettable experiences.
Being in the White House is an experience of a lifetime and the number one thing most people would like to do in Washington, D.C. However, in order to be able to tour the White House, you must have a group of ten or more and make your arrangements through your Member of Congress. This requires extensive planning well ahead of time, but is well worth the effort if you are successful.
You will be amazed by the interesting facts, stunning architecture and beautiful artwork that you will see while touring the great halls and chambers of the U.S. Capitol Building.
The tour is free, but you will need to obtain a timed pass in order to join a tour group.
Picture Tour of the U.S. Capitol The Smithsonian Institution operates the most extensive "complex of museums in the world" and unless you have a great deal of time, you will not be able to see all of them. The following information will help you decide which of the many options best suit your interests and available time.
Picture Tour of the National Mall
Full of history, lively ambience, great shopping and an array of dining options, Georgetown is as popular with visitors as many of Washington, D.C.'s most famous buildings, museums and monuments. Whether you choose to go on your own, join one of the many interesting tours, or plan a combination of both, you are sure to enjoy exploring, shopping, dining, late night fun or whatever you choose to do in Georgetown.
You can spend a few hours or all day in this world-class art museum, which includes an older and a new wing, plus a wonderful outdoor sculpture garden. The museum gift shop is one of the best in the world, with a great selection of things to buy, either to take home to family and friends or for yourself.
Known around Washington, D.C. as the best way to visit many of the famous memorials and monuments, this nighttime tour will be an experience you will always remember. Several different groups offer moonlight tours given by knowledgeable and witty tour guides.
Option: Walking Tour of the National MemorialsThe Kennedy Center offers an extensive variety of performing arts presentations throughout the year. For a very special evening, plan to have dinner at the Kennedy Center's Roof Terrace Restaurant and then enjoy a top quality performance in this spectacular venue.
Arlington National Cemetery has more than four million visitors each year. Whether attending a funeral, paying tribute to a lost family member or friend or taking a journey through history, a visit to the hallowed grounds of Arlington National Cemetery is a powerful and memorable experience.
The National Archives Building is where you will be able to get an up close view of the Charters of Freedom: the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. Most visitors to the National Archives Building find this experience to be awe inspiring and extremely memorable.
In order to experience the well presented and powerful permanent and special exhibitions at this compelling memorial museum, you will need to plan for at least two hours, and probably more. Timed passes are required for admission to the permanent exhibition.
