What are the most important places of interest in washington

25 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington State

Written by Brad Lane
Updated Jan 31, 2022

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The natural world is larger than life in the state of Washington. The state is stacked with sleeping volcanoes, lush rainforests, and islands full of attractions. And surrounding these verdant landscapes are cities big and small brimming with cultural appeal.

Washington State attracts millions of tourists each year. These visitors and potential transplants descend upon the state for a variety of reasons. For those that haven’t explored the massive appeal of the Evergreen State, from world-class adventures to one-of-a-kind music and artistic scenes, there’s no better time than now to find out what makes Washington so special.

Fun things to do and exciting places to visit are found in every direction in Washington, including the more arid eastern side of the state in cities like Spokane. One trip to Washington will never be enough, and even residing for years won’t uncover the entire splendor of the state. Plan your trip with our list of the top attractions in Washington State.

Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues.

1. Olympic National Park

Author, Brad Lane, at lateral moraine of Blue Glacier | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

From ocean beaches to glaciered mountaintops, Olympic National Park overflows with incomparable scenery. The park covers most of the Olympic Peninsula, and roads only circle the park, never cutting through the park’s mountainous heart. While auto-touring is fun, the best way to experience Olympic is by hiking trail.

Iconic coastal areas like Ruby and Rialto Beach define the rugged western edge of the park. This stunning slice of Washington coastline is only a short drive away from the oversized trees and abundant foliage found in the Hoh Rain Forest. Other popular attractions at the park include the snowy peaks of Hurricane Ridge and the welcoming waters of Sol Duc Hot Springs.

Hoh River Trail | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

The hiking trails at Olympic National Park traverse many different landscapes, including a Hall of Mosses and the family-friendly Marymere Falls. The Hoh River Trail is an absolute must-do hike for all ages. This lush hiking trail explores the rainforest and river corridor with a flat path for 13 miles before ascending to the lateral moraine of Blue Glacier on Mount Olympus.

For excellent places to spend the night, the campgrounds at Olympic National Park put visitors close to the awe-inspiring scenery presented by this wild western region of Washington.

2. Seattle Center and the Space Needle

Seattle Center

Of all the top attractions in Seattle, the Space Needle within the Seattle Center is perhaps the most iconic. It was built for the 1962 World’s Fair and stands today as a centerpiece of the sprawling Seattle Center. Surrounding the spinning observation deck are more of the city’s most iconic attractions, including some of Seattle’s best museums.

Alongside the Space Needle, the Seattle Center’s 74-acre campus is home to the Monorail, parklands, museums, and restaurants. Among the indoor sightseeing options are the colorful glass artworks at Chihuly Garden and Glass and the Frank O. Gehry designed Museum of Pop Culture.

Other fun things to check out at the Seattle Center include a plethora of art installations, various theater and stage accommodations, and multiple garden and fountain settings, and on any sunny day in Seattle, the campus offers an excellent place to stroll outside.

3. San Juan Islands

San Juan Islands

The San Juan Islands are north of Puget Sound, off the northwest mainland. They are a collection of 174 named islands, with the four largest readily accessible by ferry. These four islands are San Juan Island, Orcas Island, Lopez Island, and Shaw Island. The county seat, and most populous city, Friday Harbor, is on San Juan Island and is often a jumping-off point for bigger adventures.

Each main island has a mix of galleries, seafood restaurants, and parks, including San Juan Island National Historic Park. The historic park encompasses both a British and an American Camp that date to the mid-1800s. Here, the park details life at the camp and the conflict known as the Pig War dispute.

Mount Constitution, Moran State Park | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Popular destinations within the San Juan Islands include Friday Harbor, Eastsound, and Moran State Park, where visitors will find one of the best campgrounds in Washington. Favorite things to do on the San Juan Islands include sea kayaking, whale watching, and dining on local fare.

4. Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Rainier from Paradise | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Mount Rainier is an iconic Washington landmark seen from miles in every direction. It’s the tallest peak in the state (14,410 feet) and is located within eyesight of Seattle, and the mountain itself is at the center of its namesake national park.

Two areas of particularly stunning interest include the Sunrise and Paradise regions of the park. The road to Paradise is open, weather permitting, year-round, allowing visitors to reach high elevations for hiking in summer and snowshoeing in winter. The Sunrise area, on the west side of the park, lives up to its name and is well worth a pre-dawn drive.

Alongside the around-the-mountain Wonderland Trail, other hiking trails at Mount Rainier National Park tour mountain meadows, massive waterfalls, and groves of ancient forests. The country-spanning Pacific Crest Trail also passes through the park’s boundaries.

Four auto-campgrounds are some of the best campgrounds at Rainier. Visitors also find several other places to pitch a tent or park an RV in the national forests surrounding the park.

Other attractions are within easy distance of the park, including Northwest Trek wildlife park in Eatonville and the Mount Rainier Scenic Railroad in the little town of Elbe.

5. Seattle Downtown

Seattle Downtown | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

It’s a large, densely packed city, but downtown Seattle reveals its more relaxed side at the waterfront. Here, piers and parks rim the shoreline. Pike Place Market is the standard draw for tourists, but other historic buildings and venerable institutions add diversity to a visit.

Visitors will likely wish to catch an underground tour near Pioneer Square, or a performance at Benaroya Hall. And back on the waterfront, a sea-level exploration takes you from the Olympic Sculpture Park in the north to the Seattle Aquarium and ferry terminal farther south. The waterfront is also a popular spot to depart on some of the best day trips from Seattle.

6. Leavenworth

Leavenworth | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

After the town of Leavenworth experienced the bust following a boom in the logging industry, city leaders rallied and decided to change the town’s image. Today, the town of Leavenworth proudly recognizes itself as a Bavarian Village, and it’s common to see residents wearing lederhosen or blowing a morning serenade on an alphorn.

Alongside the encompassing Bavarian theme of this tourist town comes several annual festivals. Perhaps one of the most spirited is the annual Christmas Lighting Festival, where the nighttime streets transform into something of a surreal snow globe scene.

Leavenworth

Outdoor recreation is also a main draw to Leavenworth. Craggy Cascade mountains backdrop the town to the west, with iconic destinations like the Icicle Gorge and Alpine Lakes Wilderness nearby. These mountain playgrounds comprise several of Leavenworth’s best hiking trails, including the world-famous Enchantments Thru-Hike.

7. North Cascades National Park

Ross Lake | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

The North Cascades are one of the most unspoiled tracts of country in the United States. And the national park encompassing these mountains caters to anglers, walkers, and nature lovers. To the north, the park shares a border with British Columbia, Canada.

A drive through the park on the North Cascades Scenic Byway is rewarded with some fantastic views. Some of the many highlights of this drive include the Washington Pass Overlook, the aquamarine waters of Ross Lake, and the western-inspired town of Winthrop in the Methow Valley.

Lake Chelan National Recreation Area borders the southern edge of the national park and is home to one of the deepest lakes in the country. It also provides a stunning backdrop for the mountain town of Stehekin (only accessible by foot, boat, or seaplane).

Many of the hiking opportunities in the North Cascades are steep, though some of the best hikes in the area also incorporate family-friendly treks with stunning mountain views. For other family-friendly adventures in the North Cascades, head to the North Cascades Institute within the park. This non-profit institution offers educational opportunities and overnight visits.

8. Puget Sound

Whidbey Island, in Puget Sound | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

On the western border of the state, separating the Olympic Peninsula and Seattle, Puget Sound is a watery region filled with inlets, islands, and unique worlds to discover. Several cities and harbors surround all sides of Puget Sound, offering endless access and places to visit. Some of the things to do in Puget Sound include sea kayaking, whale watching, and visiting the vibrant communities that define the islands.

An extensive ferry system accesses the different destinations in Puget Sound, allowing for easy day trips and island hopping. A top spot to visit is Whidbey Island, the largest island in the sound. It’s home to Naval Air Station Whidbey Island and the adjacent city of Oak Harbor, located on the north side of the island. The north side of the island is also home to Washington’s most visited State Park: Deception Pass State Park.

South of Oak Harbor, the rest of the island has a quieter tone and more rugged landscapes to explore. Here, Ebey’s Landing National Historical Reserve encompasses several seaside state parks and historic farmlands. It also includes the charming community of Coupeville, where fresh seafood restaurants serve meals by the water.

For a look into the native cultures that once inhabited the region, the nearby Tillicum Village on Blake Island Marine State Park offers another popular day trip from the city.

9. Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument

Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

When Mount St. Helens explosively erupted on May 18th, 1980, it reduced the peak by 1,300 feet and leveled much of the surrounding area. A cloud of ash rose 13 miles into the air. Almost 150 square miles of forest were destroyed, houses were overwhelmed by masses of water and mud, and 57 people lost their lives.

The landscape of Mount St. Helens today is still rebounding from the massive event. Today, visitors are encouraged to learn more about the geological processes underway at the Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument.

One of the most popular places to observe and learn about the mountain is the Johnston Ridge Observatory at the end of the Spirit Lake Highway (SR 504). This unique visitor center offers further insight into the eruptive history of the mountain and is a launching point for many of Mount St. Helens best hiking trails.

Mount St. Helen’s summit | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

A bucket-list adventure at Mount St. Helens is hiking/climbing all the way up to the remaining crater. This challenging endeavor is usually done from the Climber’s Bivouac trailhead on the south side of the mountain. Permits are required for any summit attempt on Mount St. Helens.

10. Deception Pass State Park

Deception Pass Bridge

Spanning Whidbey and Fidalgo Islands in Puget Sound, the Deception Pass Bridge is an iconic landmark of the region and civic achievement dating back to the Civilian Conservation Corps. On both sides of this scenic bridge, Deception Pass State Park easily ranks high as one of the best state parks in Washington (and most visited).

Activities like tide pooling, hiking, and boating are some of the most popular things to do at the park. Several campsites spread across three campgrounds within the park, facilitating multiple days of adventure. For those interested in passing under the bridge with a boat, knowing the tides is the key to success.

Address: 41229 State Route 20, Oak Harbor, Washington

11. Port Angeles

Hurricane Ridge, Olympic National Park

The town of Port Angeles lies along the northern shores of the Olympic Peninsula, across the Strait of Juan de Fuca. The region is known for the huge number of things to do outdoors, such as hiking, biking, golfing, boating, kayaking, fishing, birding, and more.

Port Angeles is also an access point to Olympic National Park, including nearby areas like Hurricane Ridge. At this high alpine recreation area, hiking trails fan out from the visitor center leading to wildflower meadows in spring.

Back at sea level in Port Angeles, the Port Angeles Fine Arts Center features changing Northwest exhibits in the semi-circular hilltop gallery. On the extensive grounds, visitors will find a museum without walls featuring more than 100 sculptures along rustic trails.

Port Angeles is also home to many great hotels, eateries, and a waterfront downtown district. It’s also where ferries depart for Victoria, Canada.

12. Riverfront Park, Spokane

Japanese Gardens, Manito Park

Eastern Washington is notably different than the west side of the state. The weather is considerably sunnier; farmland dots much of the landscape; and the population is less dense in much of the region, besides in the major cultural hub of Spokane – the second largest city in the state of Washington.

A crown jewel of Spokane attractions is the illustrious Riverfront Park. This sprawling parkland received a massive revitalization just in time for the 1974 World’s Fair. Today, it’s dotted with community attractions, including a hand-carved carousel made in 1909. The Spokane River also rushes right through the area, with several vantage points overlooking its falls.

Riverfront Park, Spokane | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Other places to visit in Spokane include gardens, parks, and museums. And for the adventurous, the city offers access to several outdoor playgrounds, including the extensive Riverside Park. Skiing and year-round adventures are also available on the nearby Mount Spokane.

13. Bellingham

Whatcom Falls Bridge | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Bellingham is north of Seattle, less than an hour from the Canadian border. It’s an access point for several iconic Pacific Northwest adventures, including Mount Baker. The town also has a notable collegiate appeal and culture, known for its laid-back vibe and a community emphasis on outdoor adventure.

For a quick introduction to this corner of the Pacific Northwest, stroll through Fairhaven Historic District and duck into local art galleries or catch some sun on a restaurant patio. Out of downtown, Western Washington University has amassed an excellent Outdoor Sculpture Collection among its academic offerings, and its campus is dotted with works small and large.

Skagit Valley tulips

Another popular outdoor attraction is Whatcom Falls Park, with its four sets of falls and numerous walking trails.

In the surrounding area, visitors can take scenic drives through the mass fields of Skagit Valley tulips in spring, or follow the twisting, narrow route of Chuckanut Drive year-round.

14. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

Mount Baker | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

The Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest runs along the slopes of the Cascade Mountains, with North Cascades National Park to the south and the Canadian border to the north. The wide range of recreational opportunities include numerous hiking trails, forest cabin rentals, alpine climbing, and one of the best ski resorts in Washington state.

On the Mount Baker Highway (SR 542), the town of Glacier is the closest base camp to the peak. The very small town does offer limited tourist amenities, such as restaurants and lodging. At the end of the highway, the stunning Artist Point area of the mountain offers jaw-dropping views of Mount Baker and Mount Shuksan. Here, several hiking trails expose beautiful views of both peaks.

15. Sol Duc Hot Springs

Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort

The Sol Duc region is within the heart of Olympic National Park and an hour’s drive from Port Angeles. The area has several visitor attractions, including iconic hiking trails and the namesake waterfalls. One of the steamiest reasons to visit, though, is the relaxing pools at Sol Duc Hot Springs.

The Sol Duc Hot Springs Resort is operated by a concessionaire and features rooms, cabins, and suites adjacent to the Sol Duc River. Those staying within the resort have free access to the mineral pools and spas, and anyone interested in checking out the rejuvenating water can pay a day-use fee. The resort also operates a nearby campground for pitching a tent or parking an RV.

16. Pacific Crest Trail

Goat Rocks Wilderness | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Spanning the entire length of the United States from Mexico to Canada, the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) traverses some of its biggest landscapes as it travels through Washington. Beginning at the sea-level Columbia River Gorge, the PCT heads north to hit such iconic landscapes as the Goat Rocks Wilderness, Snoqualmie Pass, and the mountain town of Stehekin before arriving at the Canadian border.

You don’t have to be a long-distance hiker to enjoy any part of the PCT – some of the best day hikes on the Pacific Crest Trail span Washington, Oregon, and California.

17. Tacoma

Bridge of Glass | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Located between Seattle and Olympia, Tacoma is one of Washington’s larger cities. Once industrial in feel, the city has developed a variety of exceptional museums and cultural venues. Perhaps the most notable, The Museum of Glass features exquisite, translucent pieces by world-renowned artist and Tacoma-native Dave Chihuly.

Extending from the Museum of Glass, a walkway decorated with glass sculptures, known as the Bridge of Glass, allows visitors to reach the nearby Washington State History Museum.

Bridge of Glass

For automobile interests, there’s also the shiny appeal of LeMay – America’s Car Museum nearby, which exhibits heritage vehicles from its world-class collection.

18. Snoqualmie Falls

Snoqualmie Falls

This stunning 270-foot waterfall is one of the most popular natural attractions in the state. Its accessibility from Seattle, less than a 30-mile drive to the west, adds to its popularity. But its sheer stature also lends credence for a visit.

A two-acre park is near the falls, offering a popular observation deck with different vantage points. The Salish Lodge & Spa is also nearby, offering one of the nicest places to stay within an hour’s drive of Seattle. All the rooms at this four-star hotel are spectacular, but the ones facing the falls offer an unbeatable view.

19. Fort Worden Historical State Park, Port Townsend

Fort Worden, Port Townsend | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Port Townsend is a charming seaport city on the northeast edge of the Olympic Peninsula. It’s a spot of cultural and historical value, and home to Fort Worden – once part of the coastal defense center known as the Triangle of Fire. Today, visitors to this decommissioned military fort enjoy walking through history and the seaside scenery.

The park encompasses over 400 acres, with several batteries and barracks spread throughout. For those looking to explore the densest collection of these cement structures, head to the park’s Artillery Hill. Other on-site attractions include the Coast Artillery Museum and the Point Wilson Lighthouse.

Victorian architecture in Port Townsend | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

After exploring Fort Worden, the rest of Port Townsend also deserves some attention. The city’s most defining feature is the several pieces of 1800s Victorian architecture throughout its uptown and downtown district. These storefronts and homes offer a certain type of charm that pairs well with the saltwater smell of the ocean nearby.

20. Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island

Bloedel Reserve, Bainbridge Island | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

The Bloedel Reserve is a magnificent 150-acre property on the north side of Bainbridge Island. It once belonged to Virginia and Prentice Bloedel, who amassed their fortunes in the timber industry. And the Bloedels spent more than 30 years cultivating the natural and landscaped gardens still seen today.

The Bloedel Reserve opened to the public in 1988 and has been a top place to visit on the island ever since. For the price of admission, visitors are welcome to take the two-mile looped hiking trail throughout the property. A must-see stop is the Residence itself, surrounded by some of the most intricate gardens.

Bainbridge Island’s proximity to Seattle makes it a popular weekend destination. Several other attractions on the island also demand attention, including a Grand Forest laced with hiking trails.

21. Winthrop, Methow Valley

Hot air balloons over snow covered cabins in Winthrop

The Old West-inspired town of Winthrop in northern Washington is worth more than a weekend visit. This uniquely themed town is within the stunning Methow Valley and is a gateway to the big world of North Cascades National Park. Its year-round adventure status also adds to its appeal.

During the summer months, take some time to mosey about the downtown district, made to resemble the 1850s Old West. Along the wooden boardwalk and within the old-timey storefronts, several modern establishments offer places to shop and dine.

The summer is also the time to explore the expansive Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest surrounding the town.

Come winter, the Methow Valley has a world-class reputation for its extensive collection of cross-country ski trails. The non-profit Methow Trails organization oversees a remarkable 200-plus kilometers of groomed cross-country routes, all open to the public for the price of a day or season pass.

22. Palouse Falls

Palouse Falls | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

Ice Age floods over 13,000 years ago carved the present-day Palouse Falls in southeast Washington. And today, this stunning display of gravity is one of the last active waterfalls along this ancient floodway. That’s why, in 2014, the Legislator named Palouse Falls the state’s official waterfall.

Designation or not, the 200-foot Palouse Falls is quite a sight to see. For those looking for the best vantage point, head to Palouse Falls State Park. Here, three designated viewing areas offer commanding looks at the falls, and interpretive information about their creation.

The park’s semi-remote location makes visiting a challenge. The park has very limited camping, but a nearby KOA has spots available near the Snake River. This area of Washington is prone to intense heat during the summer, and visitors should check out Palouse Falls as early in the day as possible this time of year.

23. Washington State Capitol Building

Washington State Capitol Building

Set against the southern end of Puget Sound, Olympia is a fairly quiet state capital. Here, the grand white dome of the Washington State Capitol building rises 287 feet above the tree-lined streets and center of town.

Free, guided public tours give the highlights of the building, including the five-ton Tiffany chandelier and permanent sculptures. Other top attractions of Olympia surrounding the Capitol building include The Olympia Farmers Market, the Hands On Children’s Museum, and the nearby Nisqually National Wildlife Refuge.

Address: 416 Sid Snyder Ave SW, Olympia, Washington

24. Vancouver

Salmon Run Bell Tower at Esther Short Park | Photo Copyright: Brad Lane

In southern Washington near the Columbia River Gorge, Vancouver is a city filled with history and cultural appeal. Some of the attractions of Vancouver include Esther Short Park and Playground, Fort Vancouver National Historic Site, and a summer farmers market filled with live music.

History and natural appeal run deep in Vancouver, and places like the Waterfront Renaissance Trail and Officer’s Row add even more unique things to do. With easy access to the vibrant city of Portland, Oregon across the Columbia River, Vancouver is also a popular jumping-off point for exploring the City of Roses.

25. Future of Flight, Everett

Large cargo carrier plane

Even those who aren’t plane buffs will likely be impressed by this jet assembly plant tour at the Boeing Factory, located north of Seattle in Everett. Detailed tours through the facility happen daily under the attraction name Future of Flight.

These popular tours take members of the public through the assembly process of some of Boeing’s biggest planes and throughout the working environment of the world’s biggest building (by volume). Those interested in taking the tour are advised to book their spot ahead of time.

Address: 8415 Paine Field Boulevard, Mukilteo

22 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Washington, D.C.

Written by Barbara Radcliffe Rogers
Updated Mar 22, 2022

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The District of Columbia, on the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia, was set aside as the nation’s capital so that the federal government would not be located in any single state. Pierre-Charles L’Enfant was commissioned by George Washington to plan the city, and you can clearly see L’Enfant’s layout of a street grid intersected by broad avenues.

The most important of these is Pennsylvania Avenue, connecting two iconic buildings: the White House and the impressive domed Capitol Building. Alongside and maintaining L’Enfant’s vision of an open and spacious city stretches the wide National Mall with its museums and monuments.

National symbols such as the Capitol and the White House are accessible to visitors, along with dozens of other tourist attractions, which include world-class museums and important monuments. Many of the most important things to see and do are in the northwestern quadrant along the National Mall and are best seen on foot. Summer can be unpleasantly hot and humid, so the best times to visit Washington are spring and autumn.

Plan your trip to the nation’s capital with our list of the top attractions in Washington, D.C.

Note: Some businesses may be temporarily closed due to recent global health and safety issues.

1. United States Capitol and Capitol Hill

The Capitol, Washington, D.C.

Recognized around the world as a symbol of the United States, the Capitol is the seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The huge dome, based on the dome of St. Peter’s in Rome, stands out above all other Washington buildings.

Like Washington itself, the building has grown over the years since the central portion was built between 1793 and 1812. The last addition, in 1958-62, enlarged the main façade where presidents take the oath. On the other side, a marble terrace offers beautiful views over the mall and the city.

The interior is resplendent with frescoes, reliefs, and paintings, especially the rotunda under the great cast-iron dome with a ceiling painting by Constantino Brumidi and huge paintings of scenes from American history on the walls. Beside it is the former Chamber of the House of Representatives, with statues of leading historical figures. The small Senate Rotunda leads into the beautifully restored Old Senate Chamber, where the Senate met until 1859, and the Supreme Court until 1935.

When free tours resume, they can be reserved online and begin at the visitor center on the lower floor, where there is an interesting exhibition on the building’s history. Free tours on weekday afternoons explore the ornate paintings on the walls and ceilings of the corridors in the Senate wing, designed by Brumidi between 1857 and 1859. To visit the Senate or House in session, you need to contact your Senator or Representative for a pass; foreign visitors can arrange visits through the visitor center.

East of the Capitol are the Supreme Court Building; the Library of Congress; and Folger Shakespeare Library, home of the world’s largest collection of the printed works of William Shakespeare.

The Capitol Hill neighborhood extends southeast, with the lively Eastern Market, a farmers market with craft vendors, as well.

2. The Lincoln Memorial

Marble statue of President Abraham Lincoln at the Lincoln Memorial

The best-loved of all Washington’s memorials, the Lincoln Memorial stands at the far end of the mall, separated from the Washington Monument by the Reflecting Pool. At its center is a 19-foot marble statue of a seated and pensive President Abraham Lincoln surrounded by 36 columns, one for each of the states that existed at the time of Lincoln’s death. This is the most famous work designed by noted sculptor Daniel Chester French. Jules Guerin painted the murals on the inside walls, showing important events in Lincoln’s life.

Since its completion in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial has been the scene of a number of historic events. 1n 1939, when the all-white Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) refused to let celebrated African American singer Marian Anderson perform at a concert in nearby Constitution Hall, President Franklin Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt arranged for her to give an open-air concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, attended by 75,000 people and broadcast to millions of radio listeners.

The Lincoln Memorial

Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous «I have a dream. » speech from the memorial steps in 1963, again making history here.

Visiting this and other Mall monuments is one of the favorite things to do in Washington, D.C. at night. The monuments are all lighted, and many, like the Lincoln Memorial, are open 24 hours. The statue of Lincoln is especially powerful lighted at night inside the darkened interior of the temple and framed by the floodlit white columns.

3. National Mall and Veterans Memorials

World War II Memorial

The spacious swath of lawns and pools that forms a wide greenbelt from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial is also the site of many of Washington’s landmark buildings and monuments. Most prominent at its center point is the Washington Monument, and war memorials include those to veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial, a poignant wall inscribed with the names of all American servicemen and women who lost their lives or are missing, is one of Washington’s most visited memorials. The nearby Vietnam Women’s Memorial has a bronze sculpture of three servicewomen helping a wounded soldier. The Korean War Veterans Memorial contains 19 steel sculptures of soldiers. The newest, American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial was dedicated in 2014.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

If you look at a Washington, D.C. attractions map, you’ll notice that many of them line the National Mall, so you’re likely to spend a lot of time here. Along with providing a park for walking, running, and picnicking, the Mall is a place for celebrations and festivals. Best known of these is the annual Independence Day celebration with fireworks around the Washington Monument.

Also in July, the Smithsonian American Folk Life Festival fills the Mall with music, crafts, performances, storytelling, cultural programs, and food from various regions around the country. The Smithsonian Kite Festival is held here in late March or early April.

On summer evenings, you can often find military bands performing at venues along the Mall. The US Navy Band has concerts at the Capitol steps overlooking the Mall on Mondays and on Tuesdays at Navy Memorial. The US Air Force Band performs on the capitol steps on Tuesdays and at the Air Force Memorial on Fridays.

Location: Between Constitution Avenue and Independence Avenue, Washington, D.C.

4. The White House

The White House

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. The home of every president except George Washington, it was originally built by James Hoban in 1792, and after being burned down by British forces in 1814 was rebuilt in 1818.

Although tours of the interior that include the East, Blue, Green, and Red Rooms; the Ballroom; and the State Dining Room must be reserved well in advance through your Congressional office or embassy, every tourist to Washington will want to see this iconic building, at least from the outside.

The free White House Visitor Center, a short distance away, has excellent interactive exhibits, which show details about the White House and the presidential families. It includes furniture of past presidents, a model of the residence, historical changes, and videos with insights from presidents about their time living there.

The Ellipse, a 54-acre stretch of lawn stretching to Constitution Avenue, hosts summer concerts by the US Army Band. Next door to the White House are the elaborate 1833 Greek Revival Treasury Building and the 1871 Executive Office Building, one of the most striking old government buildings in Washington. From Lafayette Square, one of the city’s best-known, statues of Lafayette and others overlook the White House.

Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

5. The Washington Monument

The Washington Monument

The 555-foot white shaft of the Washington Monument is a familiar icon of the National Mall, and a beautiful sight, especially when mirrored in the long Reflecting Pool at its foot. Construction of the obelisk to honor the nation’s first president did not proceed smoothly. The plan was approved by Congress in 1783, but ground wasn’t broken until 1848.

When the tower reached 156 feet in height in 1854, political wrangling and lack of funds stopped the project for several years, and the Civil War caused further interruption so that the tower was not capped until 1885, when it was finally completed by the Army Corps of Engineers.

You can still see the separate stages of its building by three changes in the color of its facing stones; inside are engraved stones from states, cities, foreign countries, individuals, and civic groups, many of them donors who helped in its private funding stages. You can take an elevator to the very top for aerial views over the mall and much of Washington. The base of the monument is surrounded by a circle of 50 American Flags.

Address: 15th & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

6. National Air and Space Museum

National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is one of the world’s most popular museums, with a collection of history-making air and spacecraft that includes the original 1903 Wright Brothers Flyer and Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis, the first plane to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

More recent flight history is represented here by the Apollo 11 command module, part of the first manned lunar landing mission. Permanent and changing exhibitions illustrate the science, history, and technology of aviation and space flight, covering topics like the use of air power in both world wars, the space race, flight pioneers, and up-to-the-minute flight and space technology.

Many of the exhibits are interactive, and all contain actual historical objects, such as a moon rock you can touch. Not only do permanent exhibits illustrate history, they show the how and why of flight and space science, explaining how things fly, how jet engines work, and what keeps the International Space Station in orbit.

In addition to the exhibits, there is the Albert Einstein Planetarium, an IMAX theater, and the Public Observatory on the east terrace, where you can examine lunar craters and see planets and other astronomical features through telescopes. Flight simulators (fee charged) allow kids and adults to fly combat missions with aerial maneuvers like 360-degree barrel rolls or experience naval aviation in an F-18 Super Hornet.

The museum is also the home of the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, adjacent to Dulles Airport, has even more historic aircraft and space exploration artifacts, including a Concorde and the space shuttle Discovery. You can watch from observation walkways through the hangars where experts are restoring historic aircraft.

The Air and Space Museum is currently undergoing a seven-year makeover that will transform not only the arrangement of 23 galleries, but the way it interprets the history and science of flight. During renovations, a number of the exhibits will be closed, so if particular exhibits are of special interest, you can consult the museum’s website to find out if they are open.

Address: 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C.

7. National Gallery of Art

The West Building of the National Gallery of Art

Housed in two separate buildings connected by a tunnel, the National Gallery of Art is one of the world’s premier art museums and one of the most popular in the U.S. Based on the sizable collection of financier and later Treasury Secretary Andrew Mellon, its large and diverse collection includes masterpieces of European and American paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts.

The newer East Wing features sculptures by Henry Moore, a mobile by Alexander Calder, and other modern works. Free concerts are held at the National Gallery on Sunday evenings from fall through spring.

East Wing of the National Gallery of Art

Also part of the Smithsonian Institution and located on the mall are the two museums that comprise the National Museum of Asian Art. These are the Freer Gallery of Art and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery, which houses more than 1,000 pieces, principally Chinese jade and bronze, Chinese paintings and lacquerware, and ancient Near Eastern ceramics and metalware.

The Freer collection includes nearly 30,000 pieces of Asian artworks, including Buddhist sculptures and Persian manuscripts, one of the most extensive collections in the world. The Freer also features 19th-century and early 20th-century American art, most notably a large collection of work by James McNeill Whistler.

The drum-shaped Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden traces the history of modern art from the mid-1800s, through more than 12,000 pieces of art and sculpture. One of the highlights of the garden is Rodin’s Burghers of Calais.

The National Museum of African Art displays thousands of objects representing the diverse artistic styles throughout the African continent, including sculptures, masks, costumes, household objects, and ceramics. All of these Smithsonian museums are among the many free things to do in Washington, D.C.

Address: 600 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

8. United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington D.C.

Near the Smithsonian museums, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum documents, studies, and interprets the history of the Holocaust with the dual purpose of memorializing the victims and helping the world to confront hatred and prevent genocide.

Permanent exhibits examine the rise of the Nazis and the Aryan ideology, the ghettos, key events such as Kristallnacht, the concentration camps, and the Nazi atrocities. An exhibit on Americans and the Holocaust examines US reaction to Nazis, the war, and genocide, while another features personal accounts by US soldiers and citizens who witnessed the evidence of Nazi atrocities.

The presentations draw on the enormous collections of more than 12,750 artifacts, 85,000 historical photographs, 9,000 oral history testimonies, as well as archival footage and records of survivors and their families. A visit to the museum is a sobering experience.

Address: 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, D.C.

9. Library of Congress

The Library of Congress

An underground passage with historical exhibits leads from the Capitol Building to one of Washington’s little-known places to visit, the Library of Congress. It’s the world’s largest library, modeled on the Opera House in Paris. You can visit portions on your own, but free tours disclose even more of its beautiful interior.

Displayed here are one of the three surviving complete Gutenberg Bibles, an earlier hand-printed Bible, Thomas Jefferson’s draft of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson’s personal library, and galleries filled with exhibits focusing on topics as varied as the musical careers of the Gershwin brothers and the work of editorial cartoonists and graphic artists.

Address: Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.

10. National Museum of Natural History

Dinosaur skull outside the National Museum of Natural History

One of the most popular things to do with children in Washington, the Museum of Natural History explores the natural world with permanent and changing exhibits to interest all ages. Favorite exhibits include the renowned Hope Diamond and the dazzling collection of gems and minerals around it, and Ocean Hall with its stunning underwater photography and replica of a 45-foot North Atlantic Right Whale.

The Hall of Human Origins, which follows human evolution over six million years in response to a changing world. Children will especially like the dinosaur exhibits and the interactive Discovery Room where they can touch and play with various artifacts.

Address: Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

11. National Museum of American History

National Museum of American History | Orhan Cam / Shutterstock.com

One of the most popular of the Smithsonian’s many museums that line the mall, The National Museum of American History traces the political, cultural, scientific, and technological history of the U.S. since the Revolution. It displays important pieces of Americana, including Thomas Jefferson’s desk, one of Edison’s light bulbs, and the original flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words to The Star Spangled Banner.

But beyond these treasured national artifacts, exhibits also examine how people lived, what they ate, where they worked, how they played, what they wore, how they traveled, how they worshiped, and how they governed themselves.

Illustrating these multiple themes are artifacts that include everything from gowns, work by First Ladies, and Julia Child’s complete kitchen to the Muppets and the actual ruby slippers Judy Garland wore in the film Wizard of Oz. With all the historical things to do in Washington D.C., you might think your family has had enough history. But this engaging museum houses some fascinating exhibits and artifacts of our collective past that will appeal to all ages.

Address: 14th Street NW at Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

12. National Museum of African American History and Culture

National Museum of African American History and Culture | GiuseppeCrimeni / Shutterstock.com

Focusing on themes of history, culture, and community, the newest of the Smithsonian museums explores changing definitions of American citizenship and equality, at the same time highlighting African American culture and that of the entire African diaspora.

Various themes are covered in changing exhibits, which center on themes such as African American food traditions and chefs, the influence of African American sports stars on the breakdown of segregation, and African craftsmanship.

Historic artifacts on display include a section of the original Woolworth lunch counter that was the scene of the Greensboro, N.C. sit-in in 1960, and the aircraft known as the «Spirit of Tuskegee.» In World War II, it was used to train African American airmen in the Army Air Forces, men whose work helped trigger the desegregation of the military.

Address: National Mall at Constitution Avenue, N.W., between 12th and 14th Streets

13. Jefferson Memorial and Tidal Basin

Jefferson Memorial with spring cherry blossoms

The design for the domed white memorial to Thomas Jefferson, the third US president, is based on the Roman Pantheon, its low dome supported by 54 Ionic columns. Inside, appearing in a dramatic silhouette through the columns, is a 19-foot statue of a standing Jefferson, and around are engraved excerpts of the Declaration of Independence and other writings.

The monument stands alone at the far end of the Tidal Pool, which reflects the monument in its surface, and all around the edge of the water are cherry trees, a gift from Japan. These are one of Washington’s greatest attractions when they bloom each spring, surrounding the basin with a cloud of pink flowers and celebrated with the Cherry Blossom Festival.

Along the Cherry Tree Walk around the Tidal Basin, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial reflects twelve years of American History through four outdoor rooms. Each one is devoted to one of FDR’s terms of office as he guided the country through the Great Depression and World War II. Unveiled in 2011, the 30-foot-high Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is the newest along the Tidal Basin.

Address: 900 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, D.C.

14. The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Opened in 1971 and named in memory of President John F. Kennedy, the National Cultural Center overlooks the Potomac River in a state-of-the-art building designed by architect Edward Durell Stone. It is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, which hosts some of the world’s greatest guest artists each year, and the Washington National Opera, one of the nation’s leading opera companies.

Its three main stages and several smaller stages present over 2,200 performing arts shows and events each year, about 400 of which are free. These represent all types of music and theater, both classical and contemporary.

Joining the Los Angeles Music Center and Lincoln Center in New York as one of the three most important venues in the United States, the Kennedy Center is a major stop for visiting overseas opera, dance, and drama companies on tour.

Address: 2700 F Street NW, Washington, D.C.

15. National Zoological Park

Red Panda at the National Zoological Park

The National Zoo is another part of the Smithsonian, where nearly 2,000 different animals, birds, and reptiles live in habitats replicating as closely as possible their natural environments. Of the several hundred species represented here, about a quarter are endangered. This is one of the world’s best zoos, not only for the quality of the visitor experience, but for its leadership in areas of animal care and sustainability.

By far the most popular animals here are the giant pandas, part of a major initiative that began in 1972 with the arrival of Hsing Hsing from the People’s Republic of China. Other zoo highlights are red pandas, Sumatran tigers, western lowland gorillas, Asian elephants, cheetahs, white-naped cranes, and North Island brown kiwis.

In the Amazonia exhibit, you can glimpse the colorful underwater life of the Amazon, where one of the world’s largest freshwater fish swims beneath a living tropical forest.

Along with the cheetahs at the Cheetah Conservation Station, you can see Grevy’s zebras, dama gazelles, vultures, and red river hogs, and at the highly popular Elephant Trails, you can see the multigenerational herd and learn about the elephants’ life at the zoo and in the wild.

Check the day’s schedule for feeding times, demonstrations, educational games, and talks. As you might expect, this is one of Washington’s favorite places to visit for children.

Address: 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

16. National Archives

National Archives

The National Archives holds permanent records of the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Supreme Court, District of Columbia courts, and some federal agencies, as well as pre-World War I military service records for U.S. Army and Confederate veterans, and pre-1940 vessel and station logbooks for the U.S. Navy.

The records are open to researchers, and in the Rotunda, you can see the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights. Exhibition galleries feature a 1297 Magna Carta and a changing group of other historically significant documents. An exhibit, Rightfully Hers: American Women and the Vote, includes documents from the suffrage movement, and in other areas are interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages.

Address: 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

17. International Spy Museum

International Spy Museum | Erik Cox Photography / Shutterstock.com

The place for 007 wannabes, the museum covers the techniques, technology, history, and contemporary role of espionage. Many of the exhibits are interactive, and throughout the building are actual examples of real espionage equipment (including a poison dart umbrella designed by the KGB), from declassified hardware and captured equipment to movie props used in the James Bond series.

Photographs, audio visual programs, and special effects combine to give a picture of strategies and methods behind secret espionage missions. The collections include historic spy artifacts from the Revolution and Civil War, along with a wealth of ingeniously concealed and disguised cameras and weapons, even the famous Enigma cipher machine that broke the Nazi codes in World War II.

The top floor is dedicated to real life spies Aldrich Ames, Robert Hanson, and John Walker, detailing the actual methods and tools they used to spy on the United States, with videos describing how spies were caught. The lower floor moves from fact to fiction, filled with information and actual props used in James Bond movies.

Highlighting these is the Aston Martin DB5 that first appeared in the 1964 film Goldfinger, equipped with machine guns, oil jets, a dashboard radar screen, ejector seat, tire slashers, bulletproof shield, and rotating license plate. The car actually inspired intelligence agencies to add similar features to their own vehicles.

Address: 700 L’Enfant Plaza, SW; Washington, D.C.

18. Arlington National Cemetery

Arlington National Cemetery in the fall

On a hillside overlooking the city from across the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery is filled with memorials to American history and the men and women who were part of it. Its best-known landmarks are the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite, and the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial depicting the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima in World War II. The Welcome Center has maps, information (including the locations of specific graves), exhibits telling the story of Arlington National Cemetery and its monuments.

Among these are memorials to nurses, Iran Rescue Mission casualties, and various battles and groups, including one at the graves of Lt. Cmdr. Roger B. Chaffee and Lt. Col. Virgil I. «Gus» Grissom, who were killed in a fire aboard their Apollo spacecraft. Another commemorates the seven Challenger astronauts.

In a solemn and impressive ceremony, the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is changed every hour on the hour October 1 to March 31, and every half hour April 1 through September 30. Although the cemetery is not right in the city, both the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority’s Metrorail system and Metrobus have stops close to the gate.

19. Washington National Cathedral

Washington National Cathedral

The English-style, Neo-Gothic National Cathedral, one of the world’s largest cathedrals, took 83 years to build, from 1907 to 1990. It follows the Gothic building style and techniques, with flying buttresses and solid masonry construction of Indiana limestone. Throughout the cathedral are artistic details to see, from its stained-glass windows to the hand-embroidered kneelers that commemorate war heroes and historic events.

Special tours, reserved in advance, explore hidden parts of the building and its art; families should ask for the brochure Explore the Cathedral with Children for a scavenger hunt to find wrought-iron animals, tiny carvings, and gargoyles. Be sure to look for the gargoyle of Darth Vader high up on the northwest tower.

The cathedral is the burial place of President Woodrow Wilson and Helen Keller, and state funerals for Presidents Eisenhower, Reagan, and Ford took place here. The top of the 300-foot central tower is the highest point in Washington.

The Bishop’s Garden

The Bishop’s Garden, on the south side of the cathedral, includes plants found in medieval gardens, plants mentioned in the Bible, and others native to the area, along with a fish pond. The 59-acre Cathedral Close, designed by the eminent landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr in the early 20th century, is an urban oasis modeled on the walled grounds of medieval cathedrals.

Carillon recitals are held each Saturday at 12:30pm, and the peal bells are rung on Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9pm and after Sunday services. On Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:30pm, a cathedral organist discusses the Great Organ here, followed by a mini-recital.

Address: Massachusetts & Wisconsin Avenues NW, Washington, D.C.

20. Georgetown Historic District

Georgetown Historic District

The neighborhood from 27th to 37th Streets, between Rock Creek Park and K Street NW, is the city’s oldest, with origins in the early 1700s, before Washington itself. Georgetown University, the nation’s oldest Roman Catholic and Jesuit College, is located here.

Today, Georgetown’s tidy streets of historic homes and its boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, and small museums make it a popular respite from lines at the mall attractions. The C&O Canal, the 184-mile waterway paralleling the Potomac River, begins here, and its towpath is a favorite place for walking and cycling.

Dumbarton Oaks is a 16-acre estate with formal gardens and a valuable Byzantine and Christian art collection. Federal period Dumbarton House features Federal-style furniture, paintings, textiles, silver, and ceramics, and is home to one of five original known copies of the Articles of Confederation.

Tudor Place is an early 19th-century mansion built by Martha Washington’s granddaughter, Martha Custis Peter, and her husband. Items from George and Martha Washington’s Mount Vernon home are shown here, and the Federal-period gardens contain plants and trees from the early 19th century. The Kreeger Museum displays a wide collection of art from the 1850s to the 1970s including paintings by Monet, Renoir, Sisley, Chagall, Gauguin, and Picasso.

If you’re looking for places to eat in Washington or things to do at night, this is one of the places to visit. The neighborhood is filled with restaurants and cafes, along with live music venues.

21. Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery

Smithsonian American Art Museum and National Portrait Gallery | Png Studio Photography / Shutterstock.com

Sharing the historic Old Patent Office Building with the National Portrait Gallery, the Smithsonian American Art Museum holds one of the world’s largest and most inclusive collections of American art, representing more than 7,000 artists from the colonial era to the present.

The collections record the wonder of artists capturing the beauty of American landscapes as the nation expanded westward, and the changing face of American cities and towns. Special collections represent works by more than 200 African American artists, collections of Latinex works, an outstanding array of contemporary American craft and folk arts.

The National Portrait Gallery focuses on famous Americans, from the time of the first colonies to present day leaders and important public figures, including the only complete collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House.

Address: 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, D.C.

22. U.S. Botanic Garden

U.S. Botanic Garden

At the foot of Capitol Hill, the U.S. Botanic Garden is an oasis of tropical gardens in the center of the city. Surrounded by outdoor gardens, the huge glasshouse is the hub of a museum of living plants. Permanent interior exhibits create environments for plants at home everywhere from the desert to rainforests, while outside is a showcase of plants that thrive in the Middle Atlantic states.

The greenhouse contains two courtyard gardens and 10 garden rooms, and the outside displays include a pollinator garden, rose garden, kitchen garden, and water garden. There’s always something in bloom, and benches in the vast conservatory invite a stop to enjoy the fragrances and the lush green surroundings.

Address: 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.

Where to Stay in Washington, D.C. for Sightseeing

Pennsylvania Avenue connects the White House and Capitol Building, while alongside it, the National Mall stretches past the Smithsonian museums to the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial. Most of the top tourist attractions are near these, so prime locations center between Capitol Hill and Foggy Bottom, south of Dupont Circle. For a charming historic neighborhood, with public transport to attractions, consider Georgetown. These highly-rated hotels in Washington are handy for visitors:

Luxury Hotels:

Mid-Range Hotels:

Budget Hotels:

Tips and Tours: How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Washington, D.C.

Sightseeing by Day:

Sightseeing by Night:

Sightseeing by Bicycle:

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Places to Visit Close to Washington: If you have time to explore outside the city, there are many easy Day Trips from Washington, D.C., and our page on Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from Washington D.C. can give you plenty of ideas for longer excursions.

Exploring Maryland: There are a number of tourist attractions in Maryland, including those in historic Annapolis and Baltimore with its lively harbor area. The state is also famous for its beaches and oceanfront resorts, many of which are within easy weekend reach from Washington. You can learn more about these on our page Top-Rated Resorts in Maryland.

Discovering Virginia: The District of Columbia lies between two states, and to its south, you can visit attractions in Virginia, including those in the capital city of Richmond. Or you could spend a weekend immersed in colonial history with the help of our page Top Tourist Attractions in Williamsburg & Easy Day Trips.

18 BEST Places to Visit in Washington DC (2022)

The vibrant and cosmopolitan capital of the USA, Washington DC is a political powerhouse that is also crammed with exciting things to see and do. There’s a wealth of cultural sites, including beautiful buildings and world-class museums (many of which are free!), along with terrific shopping opportunities, a global dining scene, and a thriving nightlife.

While many people know the highlights of Washington DC—seeing the White House, visiting the Smithsonian, and strolling along the National Mall, for example—there is much, much more to the capital city than may at first meet the eye. Many people skip over some of the city’s true treasures, which is a real shame!

Our expert team of travel writers has compiled a list of the best places to visit in Washington DC to help you to plan a diverse trip that really lets you get under the skin of the American capital city. From well-known hotspots to local secrets and hidden gems, we’ve covered all bases.

Add these fabulous places to your Washington DC itinerary and have a ball!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Washington DC:

Logan Circle

Logan Circle is characterized by its Victoria home and colourful storefronts. Although it is mainly residential, this neighbourhood enjoys a central location and is within walking distance of Washington, D.C.’s most popular tourist attractions.

These are the BEST Places to Visit in Washington DC!

If Logan Circle isn’t quite your vibe, we’ve got more where that came from. There’s even a neighbourhood called Foggy Bottom if that strikes your fancy! Be sure to check out where to stay in Washington DC before you start your exploration below.

#1 – The National Mall – One of the most amazing places in Washington DC!

Why it’s awesome: A Washington DC must-do, the National Mall is one of the most-visited places in the USA. Stretching around three kilometres (two miles) between the impressive Capitol building and the Lincoln Memorial, there are tons of monuments, museums, memorials, and statues that teach visitors more about the nation’s history and honour significant figures from the past.

There are regular events at the National Mall too, along with wide, leafy boulevards. Part of the National Park Service, the aims of the National Mall include to provide an elegant space for official monuments and structures, and maintain a historic landscape as well as a public park,

What to do there: Take a leisurely stroll along the National Mall and see the many historic monuments. Admire the Greek-style 1914 Lincoln Memorial and the incredible views of the striking monument from across the large reflecting pool. Remember those who served in conflicts at the large Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Three Soldiers Statue, and the District of Columbia War Memorial.

Walk through pretty gardens, like the Constitution Gardens, the Butterfly Habitat Gardens, the Mary Livingston Ripley Gardens, and the Kathrine Dulin Folger Rosa Garden. Gaze up at the soaring Washington Monument. Visit the many museums (most of which are part of the Smithsonian group and almost all of which are free!), including the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of the American Indian, the National Museum of African Art, the National Gallery of Art, the National Air and Space Museum, and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery. Pay a return visit in the evening time to see the setting beautifully illuminated.

#2 – The Capitol – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Washington DC

Why it’s awesome: The United States Capitol is one of the most famous landmarks in Washington DC. Containing the US Congress and the government legislature, the iconic neoclassical building was constructed in 1800. Later changes included the addition of the grand and eye-catching dome. Flags fly proudly above the building. Inside, there is an impressive art collection, which includes statues, sculptures, paintings, and carvings.

It is a National Historic Landmark, a strong symbol of democracy, and a source of national pride. Visitors can register for free tours, learn more about the building and its functions at the Visitor Center, get a pass to watch senate in session, and visit various parts of the magnificent building.

What to do there: Join a free 45-minute tour of the Capitol, exploring the Greek Revival National Statutory Hall with its marble floor and columns, sculptures, large chandelier, sandstone relief, and other sublime details, the Crypt with its replica of the Magna Carta and distance-marker star, and the lavish dome-topped Rotunda. If they are sitting you can obtain a pass to watch Congress. Peek inside the beautiful Halls of the Senate, complete with gorgeous Italian art, hear historic tales in the Old Senate Chamber, and admire the overall beauty of the building both inside and out.

There are also special activities aimed at younger visitors; the Family Program details Congress’s support of space exploration missions. Remember to act respectfully inside the Capitol as it is, after all, still a place of work for many people, and don’t forget to take ID on your visit.

Travelling to Washington? Then plan yo’ trip the smart way!

#3 – Rock Creek Park – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Washington DC

Why it’s awesome: The large and attractive Rock Creek Park is one of the best outdoor attractions in Washington DC. Established in 1890, it was the USA third national park to be established. Covering 1,754 acres (710 hectares), the expansive park follows Rock Creek across the border with neighbouring Maryland. As well as walking trails, nature, and open areas, the park also has an equestrian centre, a golf course, sporting facilities, a small museum, play areas, a planetarium, and monuments. It’s a top place for walking, jogging, cycling, and skating, and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

What to do there: Visit Rock Creek Park Horse Center where you can take riding classes and go out to explore trails on horseback. There are also trails that are great for strolling, running and biking. Play a round of golf, cross the various bridges that span the creek, and learn more about the area’s history at the museum inside Pierce Mill. Examine the skies at the planetarium and get to know the native wildlife at the Nature Center. Let kids cut loose in the play areas and take a picnic for a delightful outdoor lunch surrounded by nature.

#4 – Arlington National Cemetery – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Washington DC

Why it’s awesome: Although not strictly in the capital (it’s a short distance away in neighbouring Virginia), taking a trip to Arlington National Cemetery is one of the most popular things to do when visiting Washington DC. Founded during the Civil War, the military cemetery is the final resting place for people who lost their lives while serving the country in various conflicts. There are 70 sections, one of which is dedicated to former slaves. The well-ordered cemetery also has a number of memorials and monuments as well as the Tomb to the Unknown Soldier, which is always guarded by military personnel. There is no admission cost to enter the cemetery.

What to do there: Honour more than 400,000 veterans, with the graves of people who served in the Civil War, the Cold War, World Wars I and II, Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, and more. You can walk around the cemetery independently or join an informative tour. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes in any case as the complex is vast. Visit the hilltop Arlington House, the former home of Robert E. Lee and a building that has served as a memorial to George Washington, a plantation, a slave home, a burial site, and a home for freed slaves.

You can take a tour of the historic home and learn more about its past. See the large white Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, constantly guarded by members of the infantry. If you visit in the summer months you can watch the official Changing of the Guard ceremony. Other memorials throughout the cemetery include the USS Maine Mast Memorial, the Space Shuttle Challenger Memorial, the Cross of Sacrifice, the Laos Memorial, the eternal flame to deceased president John F. Kennedy, and the Lockerbie Cairn.

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#5 – United States Botanic Garden – One of the most underrated places to see in Washington DC

Why it’s awesome: The United States Botanic Garden is frequently overlooked by visitors to the National Mall. One of the oldest botanic gardens in North America, it can trace its roots back to the 1820s. There are various sections to the pretty complex, including a large conservatory, the serene Bartholdi Park, and the National Garden. The botanic garden is home to a huge selection of plant life from across the world and from different terrains and climates.

Some species are rare or endangered. It aims to showcase the diversity and importance of flora in addition to teaching people about the ecological, cultural, therapeutic, and economic benefits of various plants. Open every day of the year, there’s no charge to enjoy the beautiful gardens.

What to do there: Invoke different senses as you walk to explore the United States Botanic Garden, with eye-catching colours and forms and subtle and heady scents. Relax in the tranquil Bartholdi Park as you enjoy the different species and rest on one of the many secluded benches for a few moments of contemplation. Don’t miss seeing the striking Bartholdi Fountain, created by the same man who gave the world the Statue of Liberty.

Learn more about plants from the Mid-Atlantic region in the National Garden, which includes a garden that honours the nation’s First Ladies, a butterfly garden, and a rose garden. The large Conservatory is a show-stealer, with its diverse rooms that lead you through ancient terrains, the desert, the jungle, and more. You can join a free tour of the Conservatory each afternoon too. If you’re visiting with younger members of the family don’t miss the enchanting Children’s Garden. Kids can get hands-on as they use various gardening tools and smell and touch a selection of plants, and there’s also active play equipment.

#6 – Washington National Cathedral – One of the most religious places to see in Washington DC

Why it’s awesome: Officially named The Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington, the stunning religious building is commonly referred to as simply Washington National Cathedral. Although its sublime designs and architecture may lead people to believe the church is very old, construction only began in the early 1900s—and, it took many years until it was completed in 1990! Details are continually being added too.

One of the biggest churches in the USA, the spectacular church was designed to resemble the English Gothic style from the Middle Ages. From exquisite and colourful stained glass windows to detailed carvings and sacred chapels, there are many fine details to admire both inside and out. Attractive gardens surround the cathedral. It is an active place of worship, with regular religious services,

What to do there: Admire the magnificent cathedral from the outside, with its soaring Gothic spires, 112 grotesque gargoyles, bell tower, flying buttresses, ornate windows, carvings, and other fine details. Don’t miss seeing the unusual Darth Vader gargoyle! Stroll through the pleasant 59-acre (24-hectare) grounds, which include delightful gardens, places for reflection, a Norman archway from the 13 th century, and walking trails through wildlife-rich woodland.

Enter the church and be dazzled by the grand designs, with a sweeping nave, side chapels, a grand altar, elegant arches, carved pulpit, vaulted ceilings, numerous pieces of art, stunning stained glass windows, wrought iron features, crosses, statues, and more. Of particular interest are the stones set in the ground in front of the altar; brought from the Chapel of Moses at Mount Sinai, the rocks symbolise the Ten Commandments.

As you view the spectacular stained glass windows look out for the fantastic rose window and the unusual Space Window—one of the most unusual things to do in Washington DC, the window commemorates the moon landings and is said to have an actual piece of lunar rock embedded within the glass. Descend into the Crypt where you’ll find several graves of prominent people, including Woodrow Wilson and Hellen Keller. You can also buy tickets to climb the soaring bell tower to admire terrific city views and get closer to some of the gorgeous windows and interesting gargoyles.

#7 – National Zoological Park – Awesome place to visit in Washington DC with kids!

Why it’s awesome: Established in 1889, the National Zoological Park contains more than 1,500 animals from some 300 diverse species. Creatures come from across the globe, with a large number of rare and/or endangered species among the zoo’s inhabitants. Spread across 163 acres (66 hectares), the expansive zoo is divided into several cool zones. Part of the Smithsonian group of museums, the zoo isn’t just a place for people to see animals; it’s also a major conservation and research centre.

Visitors can meet keepers to learn more about specific species and their care, attend diverse presentations, and take part in a variety of activities and programs. The zoo also hosts child-friendly and adult-focused events throughout the year. There’s a good selection of places to eat and drink throughout the zoo. Open every day of the year (except Christmas Day), there is no charge to visit the impressive zoo. It’s one of the best attractions in Washington DC for families.

What to do there: Observe an array of animals from all corners of the globe in large, clean, and comfortable habitats. The giant pandas are incredibly popular and, if they are hidden from sight, there are cameras that let you still see the cute Chinese creatures. Other animals include elephants, lions, giraffes, tigers, kiwi, orangutans, sea lions, cheetahs, snakes, monkeys, and many, many more. Watch various species being fed, attend the informative and fun meet-the-mammal demonstrations, learn more at the Conservation Station, and book a guided tour with a zookeeper. Children (and adults!) can get up close and personal with tame creatures at the Kids’ Farm. Plan to spend several hours discovering the zoo’s many highlights and don’t forget to wear comfortable footwear.

#8 – Fort DeRussy – One of Washington DC’s coolest historical sites!

Why it’s awesome: Located within Rock Creek Park, the hidden-away Fort DeRussy dates back to 1861 when it was one of 60-plus fortresses built to protect Washington DC from attacks. Unlike many of the city’s other old fortifications, Fort DeRussy did see some action during the Civil War. Quiet for most of the time, in 1864 Confederate troops made their only attack on Washington DC, causing the fort’s guns to roar into life. Today, the ruins are in a good state of repair. Nature has, however, reclaimed its territory, with the surrounding area now an overgrown woodland filled with wildlife. The setting enhances the atmosphere and the area is great for keen hikers.

#9 – Eden Center – A must-see for foodies!

Why it’s awesome: The Eden Center is one of the hotspots in Washington DC for food lovers. Although located in nearby Falls Church, Virginia, the strip mall is easy to reach from the capital and attracts many people, both locals and tourists, from the city. It’s the biggest Asian mall on the USA’s East Coast. There are more than 120 shops and dining establishments targeted at the large Asian American population and fans of Asian cuisine and goods.

In particular, there’s a strong Vietnamese flavour. In addition to shops and eateries, the mall has a gym, nightclub, travel agencies, and supermarkets. Popular since the mid-1980s, the centre hosts a variety of interesting cultural events too.

What to do there: Satisfy your hunger and let your taste buds lead you to some of the best places to eat in Washington DC! Get your fill of steaming hot bowls of pho, the tasty sandwich-like snack of banh mi, Vietnamese baked goods, spring rolls, stir-fried dishes, and more. Don’t miss trying a glass of tasty bubble tea too.

Whether you want something quick and easy to grab to eat on the go or somewhere a little fancier where you can sit down and enjoy a leisurely meal in a great setting, the Eden Center has something to suit all preferences. You can also enjoy great shopping, with shops that sell things like clothes, accessories, souvenirs, and traditional herbal remedies, and buy tasty treats and Asian ingredients to take home with you in the supermarkets and delicatessens.

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17 Best Places To Visit In Washington DC In 2022

Being home to some of the most interesting museums and monuments in the world, Washington DC is one place in the U.S. that will definitely excite the history buff in you. It has preserved the country’s long-lost history and all the places to visit in Washington DC reflect that well.

If you have ever been fascinated by the historic stories of war, power, and glory, then this is one city you ought to explore during your trip to the USA. Here are some of the best places in the city that will not only offer you an insight into the city’s culture but also help you absorb it well. Take a look!

17 Best Places To Visit In Washington DC

Here is a list of the best places to visit in Washington DC that will offer you a true glimpse of this historic city and its culture.

1. Lincoln Memorial

One of the major Washington DC tourist attractions, the Lincoln Memorial is dedicated to the 16th president of the U.S., Abraham Lincoln. Though it is not its architecture that is the most beautiful thing about it, rather it is its reflection that makes it look more majestic when seen in the pool. This memorial is a perfect place to visit if you wish to start your trip on a historic note!

Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: It remains open for the whole day
Location: 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA

2. Washington Monument

Yet another structure that was built in the name of a powerful man, the Washington Monument is one of the top places to see in Washington DC. It was built to honor the first ever president, Washington DC whose name later also inspired the city’s name! An attraction with such interesting stories ought to be on your trip itinerary!

Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, USA

3. National Gallery Of Art

Treat the art lover within by visiting this art gallery which is also one of the best things to see in Washington DC. The gallery showcases different types of art created by different artists that cover everything from the middle ages to the modern-day.

Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 6th & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565, United States

4. National Museum Of American History

One of the best historical places to visit in Washington DC, the National Museum of American History will excite the history buff in you. A visit to this museum will let you experience the creation of the nation and how it became a powerful empire now!

Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Location: 1300 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

5. National Air And Space Museum

If you’re someone who loves planes and rockets, then this is the right place for you to visit. This museum provides an insight into the history of planes and air crafts and also the process of building them. Visiting this place will surely make you feel proud of how far human imagination has reached!

Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA

6. Smithsonian Zoological Park

In Washington DC, a sightseeing tour of this amazing spot will take you closer to nature. This national zoological park has around 400 species which include pandas, lions, elephants, and more. Spotting these creatures and being around them will definitely pamper the wildlife enthusiast in you. Visiting here is indeed one of the best things to do in Washington DC.

Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA

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7. National Cathedral

Witness the glorious architecture and the rich culture of the American city by visiting the famous National Cathedral. One of the top places to visit in the city, this church offers a peaceful and heavenly environment. So, even if you’re not too religious, make sure you stop by this place to soak in a little bliss.

Entry Fee:

Timings:

Location: 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA

8. International Spy Museum

What to see in Washington DC would never be your concern if a visit to this unique museum is on your list. Known as the International Spy Museum, this place houses the world’s largest international espionage artefact collection. Needless to say, this place will surely bring out the spy within you too. So, if you want to explore top 10 places to visit in Washington DC, International Spy Museum should definitely be on your list.

Entry Fee:

Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: 800 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA

9. National World War Memorial

This place was built to honour the people who sacrificed their lives during World War II. Apart from the rich history, it also has a splendid fountain at the centre and several symbols of victory which add to its beauty. So, if you’ve ever been intrigued by the world war stories, this is one place you cannot afford to skip.

Entry Fees: No entry fee
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: 1750 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA

10. White House

In Washington DC, places to visit are innumerable but an attraction like the White House is something you cannot afford to miss! Not just the city, but the whole nation is known because of this pure white building which is famed to be the president’s residence. And while you won’t be able to take a full tour of the house, a visit to some of its parts will still make you feel like royalty!

Entry Fees: No entry fee
Timings:
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Fridays & Saturdays: 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500

11. Tidal Basin

One of the best places to visit in Washington DC in summer, Tidal Basin offers spectacular views and is home to some of the famous historic monuments. The renowned National Cherry Blossom Festival is also celebrated here. Also offering boating, it is undoubtedly the best for recreation and peace.

Entry Fees: No entry fee
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Tidal Basin and Ohio Drive NW, Washington DC, DC 20003

12. John F. Kennedy Center Of Performing Arts

John F. Kennedy, who was the 35th President of the U.S. always loved and promoted art. This center for performing arts was created in his name and follows the same trail of promoting creativity. It hosts many shows and attracts millions of people throughout the year. You can watch a free concert around 6 in the evening and learn a lot about art at the same time.

Entry fees: Depends On The Event
Timings:

13. National Museum Of Women In The Arts

Housing a collection of achievements of the women in the field of arts, this museum is the only place dedicated to women’s contribution to the art. It features works created by women dating from the 16th century and offers an experience like none other!

Entry Fee: INR 686 for adults, INR 550 for students and tourists above the age of 65, and free entry for kids
Timings: 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday to Saturday) and 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sunday)
Location: 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA

14. Mount Vernon Estate

Situated on a hill, Mount Vernon is a huge mansion, which was earlier owned by George Washington. Offering beautiful mountain views, this 14-room mansion is now restored and furnished with objects that are as old as of the 18th century. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Washington DC in one day, then this is where you need to go!

Entry Fee: INR 1,236 for adults, INR 755 for the youth, and free entry for the kids below the age of 5 years
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, VA 22121

15. Potomac River

If you visit Washington DC, then make sure you also head to the nearby gorgeous Potomac River, which is a gateway to various popular attractions of the city. Apart from offering splendid views of nature, the river also offers the activities like kayaking and bicycling. It is undoubtedly the best places to visit in Washington DC in winter to have ultimate fun in the city which looks heavenly in winters.

Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: NA
Location: Washington D.C., USA

16. Georgetown Historic District

From upscale homes and shops to high-end restaurants and scenic views, there’s a lot you can explore in the beguiling Georgetown Historic District. Tracing all the way back to the mid-1700s and named to respect King George II, Georgetown is one of the most bustling neighbourhoods where you can learn about Washington’s history and culture.

Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: NA
Location: Washington D.C., USA

17. National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery is a historical institution situated in Washington, D.C. preserving the accounts of America through the people who laid out American culture through the visual expressions, performing expressions and new media. The Portrait Gallery depicts writers and presidents, visionaries, entertainers and activists.

Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: NA
Location: Washington D.C., USA

Now that you know about all the mind-boggling attractions that this city has, we are sure that you wouldn’t need a Washington DC travel guide at all. So, don’t think much and plan your US trip with TravelTriangle right away for an enriching holiday experience!

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Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Washington DC

What is Washington DC famous for?

Washington DC is one of the most visited places in the US. Apart from being the home of the president of America, Washington Dc is known for its culture, museums, historic sites and a number of embassies.

What is the most visited site in Washington DC?

The Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of American History are the most visited places in the entire Washington DC.

What is there to do in Washington DC?

Here are a few things do in Washington DC on your vacation:
1. Tour the United States Capitol
2. Admire the spectacular beauty of the Lincoln Memorial
3. Get amazed by the exhibits of the National Air & Space Museum
4. Stroll along the beautiful attraction of National Mall
5. Pay a visit to the stunning Washington National Cathedral

Is there any entry fee for National Gallery Of Art?

No, the entry to National Gallery Of Art is free of cost.

Where should I stay when visiting Washington DC?

Some of the best areas to stay on your visit to Washington DC are:
1. Woodley Park- Best for sightseeing
2. Chinatown- Best for nightlife
3. Foggy Bottom- Best for shopping
4. Lenfant- Best for family stay

What is the best time of year to visit Washington DC?

September to November and March to May is the best time of the year to visit Washington DC. It’s the time when you can see changing leaves and feel the crisp breezes that paint the city in several shades of orange and yellow.

What is the best way to get around in Washington DC?

The best and the most economic way to get around in Washington DC is by a metro/ subway which connects all the important places of the city pretty well.

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Washington is not only the capital of the United States of America. It’s also an amazingly beautiful city.

Every year millions of people visit Washington in order to see its famous sights. The city was named after the first President of the USA, George Washington. He was the person who found the area to build the capital of USA. Washington spared some land from the states Maryland and Virginia and called the district Columbia.

There is also a separate state in the USA, called Washington, but it’s situated in the far west of the country, whereas the capital-city is in the east. So people call the capital Washington D.C. (District of Columbia), not to confuse it with the state.

Washington D.C. is divided into 4 districts: north-west, north-east, south-west, south-east. These districts have respectively numbered streets each. For example, First Street, Third Street etc. That way, it’s easy to define where you are. Washington is considered to be one of the most beautiful and unusual cities of the USA. It has no skyscrapers or tall building. There are only nice parks, squares, memorials, famous monuments and buildings which are no taller than 40 meters.

The best-known sights in the city are the Washington Memorial, which is a huge stone structure on the Potomac River, and the Lincoln Memorial, which is designed in a shape of Greek temple. The main buildings of the city are the Capitol and the White House. All tourists start their sightseeing tour from these constructions.

Moreover, there are some other places of interest in Washington. For example, the Senate Chamber, The Jefferson Memorial, the Hall of Representatives and the Library of Congress which holds millions of books and manuscripts.

[ перевод на русский язык ]

Вашингтон является не только столицей Соединенных Штатов Америки. Это также удивительно красивый город.

Каждый год миллионы людей посещают Вашингтон, чтобы увидеть его знаменитые достопримечательности. Город был назван в честь первого президента США, Джорджа Вашингтона. Он был человеком, который основал эту местность, чтобы построить столицу США. Вашингтон отсоединил немного земель от штатов Мэриленд и Вирджиния, и назвал этот район Колумбией.

Существует также отдельный штат в США под названием Вашингтон, но он расположен на крайнем западе страны, в то время как столица — на востоке. Итак, люди называют столицу Вашингтон О.К. (Округ Колумбия), чтобы не путать ее со штатом.

Вашингтон разделен на 4 района: северо-запад, северо-восток, юго-запад, юго-восток. Каждый район имеют соответственно пронумерованные улицы. Например, Первая улица, Третья улица и т.д. Таким образом, можно легко определить, где вы находитесь. Вашингтон считают одним из самых красивых и необычных городов США. В нем нет небоскребов или высотных зданий. Есть только прекрасные парки, скверы, мемориалы, известные памятники и здания, которые не выше 40 метров.

Наиболее известными достопримечательностями города являются Мемориал Вашингтона, который представляет собой огромную каменную структуру на реке Потомак, и Мемориал Линкольна, который построен в форме греческого храма. Основными зданиями города являются Капитолий и Белый дом. Все туристы начинают свою экскурсию с этих строений.

Кроме того, есть и другие достопримечательности. Например, Скульптурный зал, Палата Сената, Мемориал Джефферсона, Палата представителей и Библиотеки Конгресса, в которой храняться миллионы книг и рукописей.

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