Why Go to Washington, D.C.
YOUR DESTINATION AT A GLANCE
Washington, D.C., is far more than a government town. Our nation's capital is home to iconic monuments, world-class museums, lively neighborhoods and a thriving food scene, and it's one of the best cities in the country for families and history lovers. John F. Kennedy once joked that D.C. combined southern efficiency with northern charm, but today's city has plenty of energy.
Walk the National Mall to see the Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial, World War II Memorial, Vietnam Veterans Memorial and Korean War Veterans Memorial. Many of the Smithsonian's museums are free, including the National Museum of Natural History, the National Air and Space Museum and the powerful National Museum of African American History and Culture. Tour the U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress, and visit Arlington National Cemetery to watch the Changing of the Guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Time your trip for late March or early April to see the cherry blossoms around the Tidal Basin. Then explore Georgetown, the Wharf and neighborhoods with great restaurants, galleries and markets.
Some tours, like the White House and Capitol, require advance requests. As a veteran, I especially love planning D.C. trips. I'll book your tours and plan days that cover the monuments and beyond.
BEST FOR
History enthusiasts, families, museumgoers and architecture lovers
BEST MONTHS
March to May and September to November
EXPLORE
The National Mall connects monuments and Smithsonian museums; Capitol Hill has historic streets; Georgetown borders the Potomac, while Dupont Circle has dining and embassies.
SIX18 SIGNATURE DESTINATION GUIDE
Washington, D.C.
North America › Mid-Atlantic › USA › District of Columbia
Iconic monuments, free world-class museums and the stories that shaped a nation.
Historical & Heritage
Museums
Politics
Monuments
SIX18 INSIDER TIP
See the monuments at night. They're beautifully lit, the crowds are gone, and the Lincoln Memorial is especially moving after dark.
Experiences Worth Exploring
THINGS TO DO
Rent a bike or scooter to cover more ground between the monuments.
National Mall
America's front yard stretches from the Capitol to the Lincoln Memorial, lined with monuments, memorials and Smithsonian museums.
Visit at sunrise or after dark for a quieter, more moving experience.
Lincoln Memorial
The iconic memorial to Abraham Lincoln overlooks the Reflecting Pool and the National Mall.
Reserve timed tickets online in advance, as they go quickly.
Washington Monument
The 555-foot obelisk honoring George Washington offers sweeping views over the city from its observation deck.
Book a free tour online through the Capitol Visitor Center or your representative.
U.S. Capitol
The seat of Congress, with a stunning rotunda and guided tours of its historic halls.
Arrive at opening to see the Hope Diamond before the crowds.
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Dinosaurs, gems including the Hope Diamond and a giant ocean hall make this one of the world's most visited museums.
A historic luxury hotel overlooking the White House and Lafayette Square.
The Hay-Adams
Lafayette Square / White House
Hotel Tags
A landmark hotel steps from the White House, known as the "Residence of Presidents."
Willard InterContinental Washington, D.C.
Pennsylvania Avenue / Downtown
Hotel Tags
A stylish hotel in a historic former bank in Penn Quarter, with a vibrant bar and restaurant.
Riggs Washington DC
Penn Quarter / Downtown
Hotel Tags
A modern luxury hotel in CityCenterDC, with a rooftop bar and stylish rooms.
Conrad Washington, DC
CityCenterDC / Downtown
Hotel Tags
A refined boutique hotel near Dupont Circle, known for its elegance and personal service.
The Jefferson, Washington, DC
Downtown / 16th Street
Hotel Tags
Curated Accommodations
WHERE TO STAY
November in Washington, D.C.
High 57°F · Low 41°F · Rain 3.2 in
Veterans Day brings ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery.
The best times to visit Washington, D.C. are March through May and September through November, when the weather is pleasant and the cherry blossoms or fall foliage add color. Summer is hot and humid but packed with events, while winter is cold but quieter, with lower rates.
Best Times to Visit Washington, D.C.
WHEN TO GO
Where to Dine
DINING
D.C.'s dining scene has exploded in recent years, with Michelin-starred restaurants, global cuisines and lively neighborhood spots.
- Local favorites: Try a half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl, a D.C. institution on U Street.
- Neighborhood dining: The Wharf, Penn Quarter and 14th Street are filled with great restaurants.
- Must-try: Half-smokes, Ethiopian food and Chesapeake Bay crab cakes.
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Walking
The National Mall is easy to explore on foot, though distances between monuments are longer than they look.
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Bikes & Scooters
Capital Bikeshare and electric scooters are great for getting around the National Mall.
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Taxis & Rideshares
Taxis and rideshares are widely available throughout the city.
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Metrobus
Metrobus routes cover the whole city and use the same tap-to-pay system as the Metro.
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Metro
The Metro is clean, safe and reaches most major sights. Tap a contactless card or phone to ride.
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Flying In
Reagan National Airport (DCA) is just minutes from downtown by Metro. Dulles International (IAD) and Baltimore-Washington (BWI) offer more international flights.
Most visitors fly into Reagan National, just minutes from downtown by Metro. Once you're here, the Metro, buses and bikeshare make it easy to get around. Skip the car: parking is expensive and traffic is heavy.
Getting Around Washington, D.C.
GETTING AROUND
KEEP EXPLORING
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