Washington D.C.
Introduction and Orientation
Looking out to the Washington Monument from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, it's awe-inspiring to imagine the crowd that once packed these grounds, eagerly awaiting the powerful speeches, attending energetic concerts, or rallying for change. Beyond the monumental landmarks, DC is surrounded with impressive government buildings. Their Neoclassical architecture evokes a sense of grandeur, elegance, and stateliness. But what is truly captivating is the profound significance of what lies within those walls: the White House, the State Capitol, the US Supreme Court of Justice, the Bureau of Engraving and Printing, the US National Archives, the US Postal Museum, and the list goes on. The rich history and the vibrant life of Washington, D.C., are ever-present, making every step a journey through time.
Washington D.C. Neighborhoods
Washington, D.C., a city known for its rich history, is divided into distinct neighborhoods that envelop the iconic National Mall. Each quadrant—NW, NE, SW, and SE—offers its own unique character and charm. Northwest is where the illustrious neighborhood of Georgetown resides, with its cobblestone streets, historic row houses, and vibrant shopping scene. Northeast boasts NOMA (North of Massachusetts Avenue), an up and coming neighborhood filled with modern architecture, trendy establishments, and a growing arts community. Meanwhile, Southwest is where the Wharf, a bustling waterfront destination, thrives with its lively entertainment options, delectable dining experiences, and captivating views of the Potomac River. These neighborhoods within the nation's capital showcase the diversity and vibrancy of the city, providing an array of experiences and attractions for both locals and visitors alike.
Washington D.C.
Travel Tips + Practicalities
Visa Requirement
For a list of countries who do not need a visa to enter the United States for the purposes of business or tourism for stays not exceeding 90 days, click here. Make sure that countries listed on this list meet the passport requirements to enter the United States without a visa. If your country is not listed, then you will need a visa to enter the United States. If you intend to stay longer than 90 days, a Visa will be required to enter the United States.
Useful Public Transportation Apps
WMATA App (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority)
Your smartphone Map (iPhone or Android)
Car Rental
DC has many public transportation option that's easy to navigate. Car rental is not necessary and daily parking rates at any hotels are expensive, more expensive than just taking an Uber or Lyft 3 to 4x a day to nearby sightseeing destinations.
Taxi
You can arrange a pick-up by calling Capitol Cab (202) 398-0500. Or you can call Uber or Lyft. For more information on DC taxis, go here.
Tipping or Gratuity
United States has a strong tipping culture. This means, that customers are expected to give a tip or gratuity on restaurant bills or hotel staff.
Restaurants. A typical tip for restaurants is 15% (but you’ll see options for 18%, 20%, and in some cases as high as 30%).
Bell Hop (Hotel Staff). The bell hop is the person that helps you with your luggage. They typically will bring your luggage to your room. Typical tip is $5 and upwards, depending on how much luggage you have. But you can tip at your discretion.
Hotel Maids. These are the people who clean your hotel room. Typically, people leave between $2 - $5 daily toward the people who are cleaning your room. Different people clean your room on a daily basis.
Currency
US Dollar
Language
English
Plug Converter
Type A or Type B for United States. Type A has two prongs, while Type B has three prongs (one is a grounding pin).
Embassies and Consulates
List of Embassies or Consulate Offices in case you lose your passport or need help
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Washington D.C.
Getting to Washington D.C.. - Search Flights, Trains, or Buses
You can fly into one of these airports to get to Washington D.C. - Dulles Airport (International Airport. IAD), Reagan National Airport (DCA), and Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). We do not cover Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall Airport on this guide.
You can also arrive in Washington D.C. by rail/train using Amtrak.
Search for flights. Expedia provides competitive pricing on flights.
AMTRAK
Travelling by train or rail is a great option. If you’re coming from the United States, Amtrak is another great option. If you’re coming from one of the nearby states, you can select a regular fare. But, if you’re looking to explore the county and make many stops along the way, Amtrak has a USA Rail Pass. Amtrak will arrive in Union Station.
Washington D.C.
Getting to DC from the Airport
From Dulles International Airport
Metro. If you're taking the train into DC, follow the signs to the Metro. Take the Metro Silver Line in the direction of Largo. Use your smartphone (iPhone or Google) Map or the SmarTrip App to find your stop or connecting train to get to your final destination.
Open the Map app from your iPhone or Google phone and choose Directions from your location and type in your hotel/destination. Change the default from Car to Transit. It should give you direction from the Airport and it will tell you what stop to get off at and connecting transit, if any. The Metro Silver Line will take you to the DC metropolitan area.
Or use SmarTrip App. Click here to learn more about the SmarTrip app and using contactless payment to pay for public transit fare in Washington D.C. Learn how to use the Metro Rail, Bus, and DC Circulator here.
Taxi. There is a formal taxi queue outside of Baggage Claim area (see map).
Rental Car Shuttles, Uber/Lyft, Hotel Shuttles. There is a designated area for each of these shuttles just outside of the Baggage Claim area. See map for exact location.
Map of Dulles International Airport Baggage Area. Source: https://www.flydulles.com/travel-information/airport-and-terminal-maps
From Reagan National Airport
Metro. If you're taking the train into DC, follow the signs to the Metro. Take the Yellow Line train in the direction of Mount Vernon Square. Use your smartphone Map (iPhone or Google) or the SmarTrip App to find your stop or connecting train to get to your final destination. The Metro Yellow Line will take you to the DC metropolitan area.
Open the Map app from your iPhone or Google phone and choose Directions from your location and type in your hotel/destination. Change the default from Car to Transit. It should give you direction from the Airport and it will tell you what stop to get off at and connecting transit, if any. The Metro Yellow Line will take you to the DC metropolitan area.
Or use SmarTrip App. Click here to learn more about the SmarTrip app and using contactless payment to pay for public transit fare in Washington D.C. Learn how to use the Metro Rail, Bus, and DC Circulator here.
Taxi. There is a formal taxi queue outside of Baggage Claim area (see map).
Rental Car Shuttles, Uber/Lyft, Hotel Shuttles. There is a designated area for each of these shuttles just outside of the Baggage Claim area. See map for exact location.
Map of Reagan National Airport Baggage Area. Source: https://www.flyreagan.com/travel-information/terminal-map
Washington D.C.
Getting to DC from Union Station
From Union Station (arriving in DC by Train - Amtrak or Acela).
Metro Rail. The Metro is inside the Union Station building. Use your smartphone (iPhone or Google) Map or the SmarTrip app to plan your route to your hotel.
Open the Map app from your iPhone or Google phone and choose Directions from your location and type in your hotel/destination. Change the default from Car to Transit. It should give you direction from the Airport and it will tell you what stop to get off at and connecting transit, if any.
Or use SmarTrip App. Click here to learn more about the SmarTrip app and how to use contactless payment to pay for public transit fare in Washington D.C.
The DC Circulator Bus is just outside of the Union Station. Use your smartphone (iPhone or Google) Map or the SmarTrip app to plan your route to your hotel. Click here to learn more about the SmarTrip app and how to use contactless payment to pay for public transit fare in Washington D.C.
Metro Bus. The bus is also just outside of the Union Station. Use your smartphone (iPhone or Google) Map or the SmarTrip app to plan your route to your hotel. The buses run on a schedule, so check the WMATA app for time. Click here to learn more about the SmarTrip app and how to use contactless payment to pay for public transit fare in Washington D.C.
Learn more how to use the Metro Rail, Bus, and DC Circulator here.
Taxi. There is a taxi queue outside of Union Station or you can arrange a pick-up by calling Capitol Cab (202) 398-0500. Uber or Lyft is also available through your app. For more information on DC taxis, go here.
Washington D.C.
Getting Around by Metro Rail, Bus, and DC Cirulator
Useful Apps to have for the Public Transportation in DC
WMATA App (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority)
SmarTrip App. The SmarTrip is the app you need to pay for your public transit fare. Learn how to use it for payment and route planning here.
DC Metro Rail
The Metro rail system is operated by WMATA (the same as the DC Metro Bus). It has six color coded rail lines - Red, Orange, Silver, Blue, Yellow, and Green. See the map (Image 1) for the routes for the different colored lines. Some trains arrive on the same platform track, so make sure you're boarding the right train and looking at the monitors on the platform to check which train is arriving next. Also (see Images labeled 2), the side of the train car will have the color coded rail line of the train. The Silver line will go to the Dulles International Airport, while the Yellow line will go to the Reagan National Airport.
Look for the Metro sign on the street to know where the entry points are for the Metro station (see Image 3). Note that the Metro sign outside of the station tells you the color of the rail lines that are stopping at the station.
Image 1. Click on image to enlarge.
Source: WMATA https://www.wmata.com/schedules/maps/upload/1080x1312-2023-system-map.pdf
Images 2. Metro Train Color Coded rail lines (Green, Blue, and Yellow). Click on image to enlarge.
Image 3. There are posts like the above picture outside of Metro stations. Note the colors of the rail lines that use this station.
DC Metro Bus
There are many DC Metro buses that travel along the metropolitan area. Make sure to check WMATA app for routes and schedules. Below the Metro Bus Map and Routes. Your smartphone (iPhone or Google) Map or the WMATA can provide the best route option to your destination. Study the transportation map because taking the DC Circulator, which may take a few minutes longer to walk to, might be the quicker option. The DC Metro Bus also operates on a specific schedule, so make sure to plan your trips accordingly. On the other hand, the DC Circulator comes every 10 minutes.
DC Metro Bus Map. Source: WMATA https://www.wmata.com/schedules/maps/upload/WEB_WMA_MAG_DC_21x34_230625.pdf
DC Circulator
The DC Circulator is a bus system that travels throughout Washington, DC and into Arlington, Virginia. It arrives every 10 minutes. It has six routes (see map below labeled Image 1) which are color coded into 6 different colors - Light Blue, Yellow, Green, Blue, Orange, and Red. The Red route takes you along the National Malls and make stops at the Monuments (see map for detailed view, Image 2) - it is the only transit option that will travel around the National Mall.
Image 3 shows the stop sign on the bus stand for the DC Circulator.
Left: Image 1. Right: Image 2. Click on image to enlarge.
Source: DC Circulator https://dccirculator.com/circulator-map-and-information-guide/
Image 3. DC Circulator Bus Stop Sign.
Washington D.C.
How to Pay for Public Transportation using SmarTrip
Useful Apps to have for the Public Transportation in DC
WMATA App (Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority)
SmarTrip App. The SmarTrip is the app you need to pay for your public transit fare. You can also plan your route using the app by selecting Trip Tools at the bottom.
You may also use your smartphone (iPhone or Google) Map and choose Transit as your mode of transportation to plan your route.
How to Purchase a SmarTrip Fare
Download the SmarTrip App on your smartphone.
Create an Account and purchase a new SmarTrip Card (cost is $2 for each new card).
Add your SmarTrip card to your smartphone Wallet
Add Value or Purchase a Pass -
You can choose 1-Day unlimited pass, 3-day, etc., or you may choose an actual dollar amount ($4, $10, etc). The unlimited pass does not work on the DC Circulator. We do not recommend buying a pass, as you'll probably not use the amount you paid for.
Purchasing a specific value to your SmarTrip is probably the most economical way to go unless you will be using the Metro for than 5x a day. It is best to add a specific dollar amount to your SmarTrip. DC Circulator is $1 and it goes through all the Sights you may want to see. See map.
***If you have kids without phones, you must purchase a physical SmarTrip card on one of the ticket machines in the metro station for each of your child.
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After creating an account, add a payment method (#3 and #4) to your SmarTrip App so you can add a new SmarTrip card and add value to your card. Click on image to enlarge it.
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After creating an account and adding a payment method, add a new SmarTrip Card (#1). Then purchase a pass or add value (#2, #3, #4). Click on image to enlarge it.
How to use your SmarTrip App to pay at the station or bus entry
Open your SmarTrip app, make sure your phone is facing up and tap your phone on the reader with the SmarTrip logo.
Metrorail Stations. Tap in and Tap Out at the fare gate when entering and exiting the Metrorail station.
Metrobus & Regional Transit buses and DC Circulator. Tap on the bus farebox upon entry.
SmarTrip is accepted at any Metrorail stations and buses. It can be used in DC, Maryland, and Virginia transit systems, which means, in addition to the DC Circulator (the name for the DC public metro transit), it will also work on ART, DASH, Fairfax Connector, Cue, RideON, theBUS, Circulator, Loudoun County Transit, and OmniRide (should you find yourself outside of DC and using one of these operators). **It is not accepted on the Baltimore MTA.
Fare is based on transit type, length of ride, and time of day (more expensive during peak hours). Use the Trip planner on the WMATA app to find out your fare cost for your trip.
Ticket Machines located in Metro stations for purchase of a physical card and for reloading a value to a physical SmarTrip card. Click on image to enlarge.
We research and visit all our hotel recommendations. Learn more about how we select our hotel recommendations. If you book something through our affiliated links, the booking platform may share a portion of their commission with us.
Washington D.C.
Hotel Recommendations
Check-in is on level 3 where you'll find a constellation of astonishing public spaces designed to encompass beauty and functionality. The moonlight pendant that hangs from the ceiling changes light with the phases of the moon becoming a purple hue during full moon. The many curvatures on this level - from ceiling to floor - invites elegance seamlessly. Each room is designed to have floor to ceiling windows for natural light to brighten the room unlike any other. This 5-star ultra-modern hotel does not disappoint.
Nearby sights: City Center DC, Monuments and National Mall, China Town.
Address: 950 New York Ave. NW, Washington, DC 20001.
Restaurant, in-room dining, conference rooms, family-friendly, suites, fitness center, private parking. View booking site for a complete list of amenities. Many Public Transportation options nearby.
This 5-star hotel brings you back to classical elegance - chandeliers, beautiful wood paneling, wainscoting just to name a few that gives this hotel a refined and sophisticated vibe. The rooms are all updated with modern amenities and luxuries and does not spare on the elegant touches throughout including a complimentary shoe-shine in the room, and suites have sitting areas furnished with book cases and writing desks. Each bathroom has been meticulously updated with modern finishes and a mirror that has a small built in TV screen to keep you updated with the news or whatever you fancy any time of the day and iPads for in-room requests. A perfect blend of modernity and timeless charm.
Nearby sights: White House, National Mall
Address: 1200 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
Bar and Restaurant on the property. Room service available. Fitness Center. Library. Small Cozy Private Rooms for group meetings in the bar area (with sofa, TV, coffee table). Wine Room. View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
Located near China Town and near all National Mall and near the Convention Center (hence the location name), this trendy and modish hotel offers convenient location and modern comfort. The rooms are clean, updated, and the hard wood/tile flooring elevates the aesthetics of the room. The neutral palette of each room is very relaxing too. It has a rooftop bar/restaurant with tasty cuisine and plenty of drinks for a fun afternoon overlooking the city.
Nearby sights: China Town, National Mall
Address: 601 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20001.
Fitness Center. Bar and restaurant onsite. Near Metro station. View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
Opened in early 2023 in the neighborhood of NoMa, this well-appointed hotel truly exceeds expectation. The tall ceilings, chevron patterned flooring, and natural materials used in each room gives it a feeling of calm and freshness, not to mention the fabulous bathrooms with spacious shower. The expansive fitness facility has many equipment and has an outdoor option for working out, as well as a balancing bar (or we’d like to call it as a ballet barre). There’s a casual dining option as well as a rooftop dining area with a view of the US Capitol. There are plenty of common areas and meeting spaces. The common spaces feel very comfortable to meet with friends or to meet a business associate.
Nearby sights: Union Station, Library of Congress, National Mall.
Address: 175 L Street NE, Washington, 20002.
Restaurant and bar onsite. Rooftop lounge and restaurant. Expansive Fitness Center. Meeting rooms and a large common space stretching 2 floors. Club lounge access for some rooms. View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
Do not judge a book by its cover. What character the external facade lacks, the inside more than makes up for it. Located in the Georgetown neighborhood near Dupont Circle, and near the Foggy Bottom and Dupont Circle Metro Stations. This updated all suites hotel is great for families or big groups. Each room has a seating area with sleeper sofa and everything you need for a comfortable stay. The lobby and common spaces have many working table and lounges to relax or do work. Each room opens to a balcony looking down at the atrium which is lit-up by a skylight.
Nearby sights: Georgetown University, Dupont Circle, White House, National Mall
Address: 1250 22nd Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20037.
On-site restaurant. Room Service. Fitness Center. Indoor pool. Business Center. Meeting rooms. View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
This hotel has a vibrant swanky vibe. The public spaces have so many different areas for lounging, studying, working, or just gathering. All rooms are approximately the same size with all your needs in a minimal space that are clean, comfortable, and surprisingly feels spacious for a small area. An iPad operates the window screens as well as your television. A safety deposit box is located in the drawer under the king size bed. The bed is pushed against the window wall to maximize the area. Each room also has a small writing table. This hotel has an energetic lively atmosphere suitable for the solo traveler or the cozy couple. We really enjoyed this hotel so much! If you have a family, you can book two rooms. Near the Metro Station, Red line.
Nearby sights: Union Station, Postal Museum, Library of Congress.
Address: 1222 First Street Northeast, Washington, DC 20002
Bar. 24/7 food option. Buffet breakfast. Meeting rooms. Lots of different lounge and work space areas to choose from. View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
Located in Georgetown, Hotel Hive is a micro hotel that has an industrial artsy vibe and European feel with exposed bricks and metal beams. The wooden staircase in the lobby has a metal mesh rail partnered with modern light fixtures. Micro hotel means it does not have the pre-placed items like irons or coffee machines, but are available upon request, which frankly is a lot more environmentally friendly. Rooms on the top floor tend to be bigger with taller ceilings and wooden beams. Every room is unique in its sized and it does not have a double room, but all rooms are modern, clean, and updated. The hotel has rooms with King sized bed, bunk beds, and twin rooms. Second floor and basement level rooms are considered the “buzz” rooms because of its proximity to the bar lounge, which closes at 10pm. There is a rooftop bar to enjoy the evenings. The staff are friendly and helpful. Great for those travelling with friends or family that could use the unique room configurations that Hotel Hive has.
Nearby sights: Georgetown, White House, Lincoln Memorial, National Mall.
Address: 2224 F Street Northwest, Washington, DC 20037
Food, bar, and pizzeria onsite. Iron boards, iron, coffee, etc available upon request (not in the room). View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
Phoenix Park Hotel is a stone throw’s away from the US Capitol building and it is designated as a Historic Hotels of America. The rooms are all updated, hardwood/tiled flooring, well-appointed, lushed beddings, and modern bathrooms. It truly is where sophistication meets comfort. There are many meeting spaces that extends to the 2nd floor of this hotel - great for gathering. There is a concierge and the staff are warm and helpful. Great for all types of traveler - the hotel offers both suites and guestrooms. Its proximity to the US Capitol building, National Mall, and Union Station makes this a perfect place to stay in DC.
Nearby sights: US Capitol, National Mall, Union Station, and other Memorials.
Address: 520 North Capitol Street NW, Washington, DC 20001
Food and restaurant on-stie. Business Center. Fitness Center. Suite and King/Queen guestrooms are available. View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
THE WHARF - SW AREA OF WASHINGTON D.C.
Below are recommendations for hotels located on or near the Wharf. The Wharf, located in the SW area of D.C. is a fun energetic place to be, especially during the evenings and happy hours. There are many places to shop and eat. It’s a great place to play, eat, and stay. The hotels also have views of the Potomac.
A stylish modern hotel overlooking the Potomac is the perfect destination where enjoyment meets tranquility. The rooms are thoughtfully designed to provide serene and inviting atmosphere with hardwood floors adorned with area rugs and natural organic materials. The bathrooms are updated and modern with earthy color schemes. The hotel has a fitness facility and rooftop bar to enjoy the sunset. Check-in is at the 2nd floor. The Wharf has many dining and entertainment options and water taxis to get your around the Potomac.
Nearby sights: The Wharf, The Spy Museum, National Mall, Jefferson Memorial.
Address: 975 7th Street SW, Washington, DC
Restaurant and rooftop bar on-site. Fitness Facility. View booking site for a complete list of amenities.
Located on the Wharf facing the Potomac in the midst of many dining and entertainment options, the Hyatt House provides suites with kitchenette for families and regular guestrooms for visitors. All the rooms are equipped with modern amenities (including a swiveling TV to pivot between the bed area and the sofa for convenient viewing in certain rooms). The bathrooms are also all updated - some have bathtubs and some are walk-in showers. Check-in is at the 2nd floor. Prepare to enjoy the rooftop pool with a view of the DC Metro area.
Nearby sights: The Wharf, The Spy Museum, National Mall, Jefferson Memorial.
Address: 725 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC
Restaurant on-site. Rooftop pool. Fitness Facility. Business services. Laundry.
Washington D.C.
Things To Do
Top Things to Do and See in Washington D.C.
The White House. You can visit the White House by contacting your US Representative. Contact them early as tickets sell out fast and waitlist can also be full. If you’re unable to visit the White House, you can still visit the White House Visitor Center located down the street which has exhibits on the history of the White House and historical artifacts from the building.
The U.S. Capitol Building. The US Capitol is open on a limited basis and you can schedule your guided tour, up to one month in advance, through this link. If you are a US resident, you can also visit the Senate and House Galleries through your State Senator and/or Representative (you have to physically go to their office because they want the possibility to meet you, but most of the time, it is just the receptionist greeting you and giving you the passes to the galleries). Visiting the Senate and House Galleries during sessions is a great way to learn how your Senators and Representatives work. Admission is free.
Natural History Museum. Located in the National Mall and one of the Smithsonian museums. It is a “home to the largest national history collection in the world.” It truly is amazing place to learn and understand the history of our world - from its beginning, to its evolution, and the different life-forms it hold. This museum does not require a ticket or pass for entry.
National Gallery of Art. Admission is free. The museum holds a vast collection of painting, sculptures, and other visual arts. Highlights include works from: Mondrian, Cassat, Rothko, Monet, Vermeer, da Vinci, Pollock, Titian, Cezanne, Rodin, Degas, Matisse, and so much more.
Smithsonian National Zoo. One of the more popular destination in D.C., the National Zoo has over 2,100 animals, including critically endangered species. Highlights include giant pandas, Asian elephants, Panamanian frogs, among others. Great for kids. Free Admission, but needs to reserve a pass which can be done 4-weeks in advance.
National Portrait Gallery. Located in the same location as the American Art Museum, the National Portrait Gallery houses a complete collection of the Presidential portraits. The museum also introduces you to other important historical figures such as Harriet Tubman, Alexander Hamilton, Frederick Douglass, and others. Learn how the American history has shaped the American experience through these portraits. Admission is free.
National Archive Museum. Learn about the story of our nation and government through documents and records. The Declaration of Independence, the Constitution of the United States, and the Bill of Rights can be seen here. Admission is free. They recommend reserving between March and Labor Day to avoid long lines. Tickets are available 90 days in advance.
U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum. Learn about the Holocaust through this moving exhibit. Confronting the horrors of genocide and antisemitism can’t be described as “enjoyable”, but let your heart be touched and spoken to by this horrific and diabolical event in our history.
National Museum of African American History and Culture. In 2003, President Bush signed the legislation to establish the National Museum of African American History and Culture, and it finally opened its doors in 2016. The museum houses artifacts and other media that reflects the story of the African American culture and transformations, from slavery to current times. Admission is free, but reservation is required.
Supreme Court. Open to public from 9am to 3pm, Monday through Friday. It is free to come in but available on a first-come, first-served basis. If the Court is in session, seats are made available to the public, but otherwise, it is closed to the public. Information on how to get seats for oral argument or how to visit the Supreme Court can be found here.
Memorials
Washington Monument. Click on the link to learn about how to secure a ticket through the options listed below. You can go up to the top of the Washington Monument by:
On-line 30-day advance reservations.
24-hour advance reservations - there’s a limited amount of tickets available for next day reservation.
securing a free same-day (only) ticket starting at 8:45am (get there early as line forms quickly before it opens) for a timed-entry ticket on a first come, first-served basis.
Martin Luther King Memorial. The first installation on the National Mall honoring an African American citizen activist.
Reflecting Pool - Vietnam Veteran Memorial, Constitutions Garden, District of Columbia War Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial.
Arlington National Cemetery. Open daily from 8am to 5pm. There’s a lot of walking and moderate hills, so if you’re not physically able to do this, consider taking the interpretive tour bus, information is found here. The cemetery is the final resting place for John F. Kennedy, unknown Soldier, and all those who have served our nation.
The Wharf - Waterfront Activities
The Wharf, located at SW area of D.C. is a fun energetic place to be especially during the evenings and happy hours. There are many places to shop and eat. It’s a great place to play, eat, and stay. We have recommended 3 hotels at the Wharf in our Hotels section.
You can find the Potomac Water Taxi at the Wharf where they have sightseeing tours to Georgetown, Old town Alexandria, and the National Harbor.
You can get to the wharf by Metro, Bus, or Uber. We do not recommend driving here as it gets super busy.
Shopping
Georgetown. You will find a lot of small boutique shops and eateries along Georgetown’s M Street NW. Start or end at the Four Season’s Hotel in Georgetown and end or start at Wisconsin Ave NW.
City Center. For high-end dining and shopping that’s fashion forward, look no further than the City Center. Burberry, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes, and so much more.
Accessible by foot, bike, or public transportation in the NW area of DC.
D.C. Top Tours
Guided tours are a great way to learn about the city and its history. We’ve always enjoyed doing guided tours and we’ve always come away with a greater appreciation and deeper knowledge of what we’re visiting.
Guided Sightseeing Tours. Join this 6-hour guided tour around the nation’s capital. This is both walking and riding tour. Learn more.
Small Group Guided Tours. A guided tour of the US Capitol, Library of Congress, and pass by the Supreme Court to learn about its history and inner workings. Learn more.
DC Monuments and Moonlight Tour. Ride a trolley to learn about the history of DC and stop by at several DC Monuments including ones that might be difficult to visit like the Iwo Jima Memorial. There will be several stops. Learn more.
Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria Day Trip. Enjoy this 5-hour trip to visit not-to-be-missed George Washington’s home and plantation in Virginia and explore the Old Town Alexandria. Learn more.
Arlington Cemetery and Changing of the Guard Private Tour. This is a private tour exclusively for you and your group. Because it is a private tour, you will have a dedicated guide to tell you about the history and itinerary will be customized to what you want to learn. Learn more.
Monumental Biking Tour. Ride around with an electric bike with a tour guide! Visit about 25 sites in 3 hours on this fun ride - it’s a great way to get to all the monuments in a short time, which can be difficult to do by foot. Learn more.
Historic Georgetown Tour. Join a guided tour of Georgetown, the historic part of DC and learn about its history. Learn more.
NATIONAL MALL MAP
Map Source: https://www.nps.gov/state/dc/upload/nps-map-washington-dc.pdf Click to zoom-in
Additional Things to Do and See if Time Allows
Spy Museum. James Bond, anyone? Visit their interactive exhibits, and learn about spies and their gadgets and the current role of espionage. Admission is not free. Purchasing tickets in advance is recommended.
The Pentagon. Reservations are required 14-days in advance, so don’t delay if you want to visit since it fills up quickly. Visitors can explore memorials and displays in the halls, as well as the military history of the Pentagon. There are important security details to be aware of, so make sure your read through them on the Pentagon’s website.
The Kennedy Center. Free daily guided tours. Learn about how this natural cultural center was established. There is also a John F Kennedy exhibit in the atrium exploring his passion for the arts. The Kennedy Center is the home for the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera.
Union Station. A historic train station that has been restored. It also has shops, but it hasn’t quite lived up to its hype. There are not that many shops, but still great place to catch your train. There’s a food court down below.
Rock Creek Park. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city to this peaceful refuge in the middle of the DC. There are hikes and other programs to explore.
American Indian Museum. Learn about the culture of the Native Americans through artifacts, art, and other mediums. There are also spaces for performing arts and lectures. Free Admission.
Asian Art Museum. Open Daily. Free Admission. Explore a large collection of Asian art dating from antiquity to the present time.
American History Museum. Open Daily. Free Admission. Learn about the transformation of American culture through art, politics, social, and technology.
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden. Contemporary and Modern Art. Free Admission, open daily.
Air and Space Museum. Space travel, the Wright brothers, Aviation, Landing on the Moon, and everything air and space! It’s a great museum to visit if you have kids or if you have time. Free Admission but needs a ticket-timed entry.
Library of Congress. The largest library in the world and home to the U.S. Copyright office.
Postal Museum. Open Daily. Admission is free. This is a fun educational experience to dive deep into the Postal history from colonial times to the present.
Renwick Gallery. Contemporary and decorative art. Free admission.
Smithsonian Garden. Education on horticulture, native plants, natural environment, and design. Walk through the garden and feel the calm come over you.
Arts and Industries Museum. Temporarily closed.
Smithsonian Castle. Closed for renovation.
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Washington D.C.
Spotlight - The National Mall
The National Mall in Washington D.C.—bookended by the U.S. Capitol at one end and the Washington Monument at the other—frames many of our country’s most treasured governmental buildings and national museums. Why, then, is it called a “mall” when there is nary a retail establishment to be found within or along the entire 146-acre expanse? The answer goes back to an obscure 16th-17th century lawn game that you may have seen depicted in Netflix’s recent hit Edwardian drama “Bridgerton.” The game is called “Pall Mall,” from the Italian word palla (ball) and maglio (mallet). A predecessor to croquet, Pall Mall was a simpler game where a wooden mallet was used to strike a circular wooden ball through a single high iron at the end of a long alley in the fewest possible strokes. Originally these alleys were paved with brick or stone, but the game eventually came to be played along long rectangular lawns in the more rural parts of England. These lawn areas eventually came to be known as “malls,” and then applied more broadly to large park areas in urban areas. The most famous was the Mall in London, dating back to the 1700s to describe the trendy grassy promenade near Buckingham Palace where residents could stroll and socialize as a break from the otherwise crowded conditions that prevailed elsewhere in London.
When Pierre Charles L’Enfant came up with the design for the federal district in Washington D.C, it included a 400-foot wide mile-long garden-lined park with specific locations for two buildings—the U.S. Capitol and what he called the “President’s House” now known as the White House—and an area for an equestrian statute of George Washington, which eventually became the Washington Monument. Although L’Enfant envisioned this rectangular areas as being bounded by other stately federal buildings and institutions, he did not otherwise specify or design any particular buildings, reserving that task to future architects and planners. Nor did he give this area a name. The term “National Mall” was apparently coined by Matthew Carey, where it appears in a map of the city he prepared in 1802, presumably as a nod to the beloved Mall in London. The term stuck and has been used ever since even as the term “mall” came to mean something entirely different in modern parlance!
With all that said, shoppers and non-shoppers alike: go enjoy perhaps the only mall in the country where you can pass an entire day without spending a dime. All the sights and museums are free!