Travel Guides > Washington, DC

Washington D.C. Travel

For every American, a trip to Washington D.C. is a must, but many foreign travelers have also pegged the U.S. capital as a desirable vacation destination. It's easy to see why. This wonderful city is home to some of the best museums in the world, myriads of historical buildings and landmarks, excellent arts venues, and everything in between.

The other really great thing about Washington D.C. is the fact that so many of the best tourist attractions are absolutely free! That makes it a wonderful place for a family vacation, especially for those traveling on a tight budget.

Of course, you'll want to begin your trip with visits to some of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. The 555-foot-tall Washington Monument is one of the most photographed in the world and visitors will love the view from the top. The Lincoln Memorial, constructed in honor of the 16th U.S. president, provides visitors with a steep climb to the top and a great view of Mr. Lincoln and the rest of the city.

Don't forget to include a stop at the new FDR Memorial and the Jefferson Memorial as well, both located near the Tidal Basin.

The US Capitol is the seat of the legislative government of the United States and is, in itself, a stunning building, full of amazing sculptures and beautiful artwork. Free 45-minute guided tours are assigned on a first come basis, so you'll want to arrive early to get tickets.

To complete the tour of Washington D.C.'s landmarks, visit the somber Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Memorial, and the National World War II Memorial, opened in April 2004.

Some visitors come to Washington D.C. for just one reason…to visit the museums of The Smithsonian Institution. The sixteen museums that make up the Smithsonian complex are fascinating and are considered among the best in the world.

Kids especially love the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, and the National Museum of American History. The new National Museum of the American Indian is also excellent. Guests shouldn't discount the smaller Smithsonian museums, like the National Postal Museum, which are fun and quite fascinating.

Are you a fan of international espionage? If so, you'll definitely want to schedule a visit to the International Spy Museum. Aside from the really cool exhibits here, the museum hosts a number of KidSpy events, designed especially for children and packed with interactive activities.

Most Washington D.C. tourists allot some time on their itinerary to travel across the pretty Potomac River to visit Arlington National Cemetery, burial place of thousands of those who gave their lives for their country as well as several famous Americans, such as John F. Kennedy. Be sure to stay for the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.