Washington, D.C. Travel Guide
From the embassies lining Massachusetts Ave NW, to the offices and federal buildings downtown, to the monuments and museums along the National Mall, the all the local bars and food joints, like Ben's Chili Bowl, DC is a story of power, influence, beauty, and deep-rooted culture often overlooked by all the politics of the capital.
Things to do in Washington, D.C.
You can’t go wrong on the Mall. With the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument on one end, and the US Capitol on the other, this stretch of land is flanked on both sides by the Smithsonian Museums. Popular museums include Natural History, Air and Space, and American History, but the Native American Museum and African American History Museum are must-sees as well. Catch the metro into Dupont and check out the Mansion on O Street, a museum with over 100 secret doors and 70 hidden rooms. To the west, you’ll make your way into Georgetown, with more than just Georgetown Cupcake to fill your sweet tooth. Spend a day in the sun in the Kenilworth Aquatic Garden and National Arboretum in Northeast DC. For the best nightlife, head to U Street Corridor, Adam’s Morgan, or Dupont Circle. DC is filled with politicians, lawmakers, diplomats and more, so you never know who you might see on the streets.
Best Time to Visit Washington, D.C.
March through May, September and November are all the ideal months to visit. During these months you'll avoid the peak tourist periods and the notoriously hot summers.