TripAdvisor's editorial team reviewed our attractions database and selected the best local attractions to highlight in this itinerary. Some are popular, some are off the beaten path, but all are worth a visit.
Signature attraction |
|  | U.S. Capitol: The magnificent domed edifice is both a grand symbol for and the working seat of the United States government. Address: 545 Seventh Street SE, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202 225 6827 Free; tickets required |  |
|  | White House: One of America's most recognizable historical and political symbols is also the home and office of the President of the United States. Tours are currently being scheduled for school and youth groups and organized U.S. military and veteran groups. Group requests may be submitted through one's congressional representative or senator. The White House Visitor's Center, located nearby, is open to the general public and offers a range of information and exhibits. Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave., Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-208-1631 Free |  |
Memorial landmarks |
|  | Lincoln Memorial: The majesty of Daniel Chester French's 19-foot high statue of Lincoln is complemented by Jules Guernin's 60-foot high murals depicting the Angel of Truth on one side and Fraternity and Charity on another. Address: 23rd St NW, btwn Constitution & Independence Aves, Directly west of the Mall in Potomac Park, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-426-6842 Free |  |
|  | Vietnam Veterans Memorial: Comprising three elements: the Wall of Names, the Three Servicemen Statue and Flagpole and the Vietnam Women's Memorial, this emotionally stirring memorial pays tribute to the men and women who served in one of America's most controversial wars. Address: Just across from the Lincoln Memorial, East of Henry Bacon Dr. between 21st and 22nd sts. NW, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-426-6841 Free |  |
|  | Jefferson Memorial: A 19-foot bronze statue of perhaps the most esteemed founding father sits beneath a columned rotunda in the style of the Roman Pantheon. Address: South of the Washington Monument on Ohio Dr., At the south shore of the Tidal Basin, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-426-6841 Free |  |
History with a view |
|  | Washington Monument: At 555 feet, this classical obelisk is the most prominent feature on the Washington skyline. An elevator takes visitors to the observation deck for a spectacular view of America's capital. Address: Directly south of the White House, At 15th St. and Constitution Ave. NW, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-426-6841 Free; advance tickets can be purchased for a fee |  |
Museum highlights |
|  | National Air and Space Museum: The most popular of the Smithsonian museums features the Wright Brothers' 1903 Flyer and Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis. Address: Sixth and Independence Ave., SW, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-357-1686 Free |  |
|  | National Museum of Natural History: Opened in 1910 and located on the National Mall, this prestigious museum, part of the Smithsonian Institution, holds the world's most extensive collection of natural history specimens and human artifacts including the remains of dinosaurs and tools used by early man. Address: 10th Street and Constitution Ave., Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-357-2700 Free |  |
|  | Smithsonian Institution: The world's largest museum and research complex is actually comprised of 15 specialty museums, and other affiliates, with subjects that vary from African Art to the postal service, sculpture to space exploration. Address: 1100 Jefferson Drive SW, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202 357 1500 Free |  |
|  | International Spy Museum: Opened in 2002, the International Spy Museum provides interactive exhibits and contains the most extensive collection of spy artifacts ever displayed. Address: 800 F Street NW, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-393-7798 Admission fee |  |
Outdoor fun |
|  | U.S. National Arboretum: Established in 1927 by an Act of the United States Congress, this national treasure contains 446 acres of fabulous flora and fauna and is especially known for its Asian, azalea and conifer collections. Address: 3501 New York Ave. NE, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-245-2726 Free |  |
|  | National Mall (The Mall): This historically famous stretch of park in the center of D.C. has hosted big name concerts, important political rallies and is just a great place to hang out and people watch on a warm sunny day. Address: Constitution Avenue, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202-673-7660 Free |  |
Restaurants |
|  | Zaytinya: A variety of Greek and Middle Eastern dishes are served tapas-style. The large menu is divided in to meat, seafood and vegetarian options. Address: 701 Ninth St. NW, Edison Place, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: 202 638 0800 |  |
|  | Cafe Atlantico and Minibar: This festive restaurant serves Latin and South American inspired dishes. The guacamole made tableside is a real treat. On weekends, the Latin dim sum is a delicious array of eclectic tapas dishes. Address: 405 8th Street NW, Washington DC, District of Columbia Phone: (202) 393-0812 |  |
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