At a glance: One of the world’s most-visited museums, the monumental Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History celebrates both nature and culture.

Why go? This free, family-friendly museum features a collection ranging from Egyptian sarcophagi and dinosaur fossils to the Hope Diamond—a 45.52-carat blue diamond once owned by French royalty.

At a glance: The seat of the US government's legislative branch, the Capitol building is home base for the House of Representatives and Senate.

Why go? Admire the neoclassical architecture and grand dome, then tour the inside of the building. Visitors can also watch Congress legislate when it's in session.

At a glance: One of the country’s largest museums, the National Gallery houses over 124,000 pieces dating from the Middle Ages to present day.

Why go? View works by renowned artists such as Raphael, da Vinci, van Gogh, and Picasso, and enjoy the sculpture garden created by architect Ieoh Ming Pei.

At a glance: Completed in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial is dedicated to the 16th US president. With its colonnaded building and enormous statue, it’s one of DC’s most recognizable monuments.

Why go? Explore the iconic memorial by day, or visit at night to see the landmark and other National Mall attractions lit up with dramatic lights.

At a glance: Unveiled by President Barack Obama in 2016, the National Museum of African American History and Culture is free to visit and the first American museum of its kind.

Why go? Explore the varied collection, which includes everything from historical artifacts relating to slavery and the civil rights movement to Muhammad Ali's robe.

At a glance: Dedicated in 1993, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum displays evocative exhibits related to the Holocaust and is committed to preventing genocide and honoring human rights.

Why go? Examine hundreds of artifacts from the 1930s and ’40s in the permanent exhibition, and pay tribute to Holocaust victims in the Hall of Remembrance.

At a glance: One of DC’s Smithsonian institutions, this museum is free to visit and displays everything from spacesuits and rockets to early airplanes.

Why go? Learn about the history of flight, visit the planetarium, and see documentaries and popular films at this family-friendly museum.

At a glance: The Library of Congress is the world’s biggest library and the country’s oldest federal cultural institution. It's home to a wide-ranging collection of media in all forms.

Why go? Attend exhibits, concerts, lectures, and other events; take a guided tour; or even do your own research into any topic that interests you.

At a glance: Dedicated to the promotion of the free press and the First Amendment, the dynamic Newseum hosts interactive exhibits related to journalism and world events.

Why go? Explore the Newseum’s 15 galleries and theaters before this museum closes for good at the end of 2019.

At a glance: Designed by architect Maya Lin in 1982, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a moving tribute to the 58,000 soldiers who lost their lives during the Vietnam War.

Why go? Pay your respects to the fallen at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, then visit the related Three Soldiers statue and the Vietnam Women’s Memorial.

At a glance: Flanked by the White House and US Capitol, the National Mall is home to the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial.

Why go? Visit the mall's memorials, then head to the many Smithsonian museums that line the area, including the National Air and Space Museum and the National Museum of Natural History.

At a glance: The Korean War Veterans Memorial commemorates the 5.8 million soldiers who fought during the three-year conflict.

Why go? Explore the memorial’s many elements, including the Mural Wall, the Pool of Remembrance (a collection of statues depicting soldiers), and a granite wall that reads, “Freedom Is Not Free.”

At a glance: Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Portrait Gallery is dedicated to collecting portraits of famous Americans.

Why go? See celebrated paintings and photographs of Presidents Washington, Lincoln, Obama, and others, then explore the likenesses of other historic figures, from circus performers to suffragettes.

At a glance: Completed in 1884 and dedicated to President George Washington, the soaring obelisk of the Washington Monument is an iconic sight—and was once the world’s tallest structure.

Why go? Head to the National Mall to see one of the country’s most recognizable symbols, and take an elevator to the 500-foot-high observation deck.

At a glance: Home to the esteemed Georgetown University, this walkable neighborhood is known for its historical architecture, landmarks like the Dumbarton Oaks Museum, and the C&O Canal.

Why go? Head to Georgetown to do some shopping and grab a bite—its colorful streets are home to numerous boutiques, bars, and restaurants.

At a glance: One of DC’s newest institutions, the Museum of the Bible tells the story of the holy book and showcases exhibits on its history and modern-day impact.

Why go? Explore the museum’s historical artifacts and exhibits, including relics from the Roman Empire and state-of-the-art, interactive displays.

At a glance: The National Archives Museum, which contains America’s founding documents, is located between the White House and US Capitol and is free to enter.

Why go? See the US Constitution in person, along with the Bill of Rights, Declaration of Independence, and other priceless national artifacts.

At a glance: The National World War II Memorial—one of many important monuments that dot the National Mall—includes 56 granite columns, two lofty arches, and a fountain.

Why go? Pay tribute to the 405,399 Americans who perished in the war, and see monuments recognizing other sacrifices and war efforts, such as rationing.

At a glance: Among the country’s largest churches, the Washington National Cathedral's neo-Gothic architecture looks centuries old but was actually completed in the 1980s.

Why go? Admire hundreds of carved gargoyles that decorate the cathedral, and venture inside to follow in the footsteps of presidents and other noteworthy figures.

At a glance: Washington DC’s central hub, Capitol Hill is the seat of the US government—the US Capitol, the Supreme Court, and the Library of Congess are all located in this historic neighborhood.

Why go? Visit world-renowned government buildings and stroll the scenic streets, then head to the foodie-friendly Eastern Market for a bite.

At a glance: The infamous location of President Abraham Lincoln’s assassination in 1865, Ford’s Theatre is now a National Historic Site but also remains a working theater.

Why go? Visit the on-site museum, explore the theater on a tour, or attend a theatrical performance and see the always-empty Presidential Box, where Lincoln once sat.

At a glance: A verdant oasis in Capitol Hill, the United States Botanic Garden—free to visit and open year-round—is the country’s oldest continually operated botanic garden.

Why go? The garden offers both indoor and outdoor attractions. Admire tropical plants in the glass conservatory, or stroll through tranquil green spaces such as Bartholdi Park.

At a glance: A neoclassical rotunda poised on the edge of the Potomac, the Jefferson Memorial pays tribute to the third president of the United States.

Why go? Venture inside the rotunda to see a statue of Thomas Jefferson and excerpts from the Declaration of Independence, which he penned.

At a glance: A man-made reservoir on the Potomac River, the Tidal Basin is home to several major monuments, including the Jefferson Memorial and the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial.

Why go? Time your visit for early spring, when the area’s thousands of famous Japanese cherry trees burst into bloom.

At a glance: The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial features a 30-foot statue of the civil rights movement titan made by sculptor Lei Yixin.

Why go? See MLK's striking likeness, read the quotes engraved on the memorial, then walk to the nearby Lincoln Memorial, where King gave his iconic “I Have a Dream” speech.

At a glance: Once a mansion owned by socialite and collector Marjorie Merriweather Post, Hillwood Estate is now home to a decorative arts museum and 25 acres of gardens.

Why go? Explore the sumptuously decorated galleries, see treasures ranging from Sèvres porcelain and crystal chandeliers to Fabergé eggs, then relax in the five formal gardens.

At a glance: Among the world’s best-known landmarks, the White House has been the official home of every US President since John Adams took residence in 1800.

Why go? Admire the historic house from Pennsylvania Avenue, or see the interior during a free tour—note that tours are only available by advance request via your Congressperson.

At a glance: Housed in the Old Patent Office Building next to the National Portrait Gallery, this massive museum is home to one of the world’s largest collections of American art.

Why go? Explore the museum’s main branch, then head to the satellite Renwick Gallery, which is dedicated to crafts and the decorative arts.

At a glance: Located on the National Mall, the National Museum of American History is home to over 3 million artifacts dating from all eras of American history.

Why go? Admire this free museum’s highlights, which range from the original Star-Spangled Banner and George Washington’s uniform to Dorothy’s ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz."

At a glance: The largest Catholic church in North America, this Neo-Byzantine basilica is an architectural gem and a draw for religious pilgrims.

Why go? Admire the shrine's lofty tower, colorful dome, gilded altar, and modern stained-glass windows.