By Jamie Grotter
With so much to do and see, it's vital to have a plan when visiting the state's capital. A vacation can be built on any mix of art, design, politics or history. An excellent public transportation network will take you within walking distance of destinations, and good eats can be discovered on nearly every street. And, best of all , most of the attractions in Washington DC are free to the general public.
National Mall
The surprising size of the U.S. Capitol and the quiet elegance of the Lincoln Memorial bookend one of the most famous public green spaces globally. The National Mall is ringed by administration buildings, Smithsonian studios and the National Archives, which shows the original Declaration of Independence and Constitution. No trip to Washington is completed without seeing the commemoratives to the fallen heroes of World War Ii and Vietnam. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial embodies the strength shown by the civil rights leader.
White House
Every step through the Executive Mansion will be both familiar and new, as television images can only relay most of what is on display in terms of art, furniture and decorations. From the East Colonnade to the State Dining Room, a trip to the White House deserves the number one spot on a list of things to do in Washington DC. Tours must be arranged in advance through an affiliate of Congress.
Arlington National Cemetery
Rolling acres of white markers remind visitors of the sacrifices manufactured by great Americans. The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns happens with solemnity, and the Kennedy graves supply a place a quiet reflection and a breathtaking view of the Mall.
National Zoo
Bears, elephants, gorillas and a pride of lions are on show at this Smithsonian park, and people get to experience first-hand the environmental requirements of animals by walking through a rainforest and bird sanctuary. Naturally, the famous giant pandas are the zoo's featured guest. Men and Women will find this one of the most family-friendly things to do in Washington DC.
National Cathedral
While not one of the more talked about attractions in Washington DC, the Cathedral has hosted numerous state funerals, religious dignitaries and first events under its impressive limestone towers. Visitors are asked to contribute to the Cathedral, especially important given the structural damage sustained in a 2011 tremor. Worship services are open to the general public.
International Spy Museum
One of the latest, privately operated museums is this homage to people who wish not to be known. The Spy Museum follows espionage from its raw beginnings to the highly advanced technology used in the War on Terror. GPS-aided jobs also allow newbies to test their spying capabilities on the roads of DC. Paid admission is necessary.
Ford's Theater
Just days following the surrender of the South to end the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln was killed while attending a play just blocks from the White House. A museum dedicated to the sad event is found in the lower level, and the Petersen House across the way where Lincoln died illustrates how Washingtonians lived in that age. While sightseers can visit for free , patrons needing to attend a performance should expect to pay for tickets.
National Mall
The surprising size of the U.S. Capitol and the quiet elegance of the Lincoln Memorial bookend one of the most famous public green spaces globally. The National Mall is ringed by administration buildings, Smithsonian studios and the National Archives, which shows the original Declaration of Independence and Constitution. No trip to Washington is completed without seeing the commemoratives to the fallen heroes of World War Ii and Vietnam. The Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial embodies the strength shown by the civil rights leader.
White House
Every step through the Executive Mansion will be both familiar and new, as television images can only relay most of what is on display in terms of art, furniture and decorations. From the East Colonnade to the State Dining Room, a trip to the White House deserves the number one spot on a list of things to do in Washington DC. Tours must be arranged in advance through an affiliate of Congress.
Arlington National Cemetery
Rolling acres of white markers remind visitors of the sacrifices manufactured by great Americans. The changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknowns happens with solemnity, and the Kennedy graves supply a place a quiet reflection and a breathtaking view of the Mall.
National Zoo
Bears, elephants, gorillas and a pride of lions are on show at this Smithsonian park, and people get to experience first-hand the environmental requirements of animals by walking through a rainforest and bird sanctuary. Naturally, the famous giant pandas are the zoo's featured guest. Men and Women will find this one of the most family-friendly things to do in Washington DC.
National Cathedral
While not one of the more talked about attractions in Washington DC, the Cathedral has hosted numerous state funerals, religious dignitaries and first events under its impressive limestone towers. Visitors are asked to contribute to the Cathedral, especially important given the structural damage sustained in a 2011 tremor. Worship services are open to the general public.
International Spy Museum
One of the latest, privately operated museums is this homage to people who wish not to be known. The Spy Museum follows espionage from its raw beginnings to the highly advanced technology used in the War on Terror. GPS-aided jobs also allow newbies to test their spying capabilities on the roads of DC. Paid admission is necessary.
Ford's Theater
Just days following the surrender of the South to end the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln was killed while attending a play just blocks from the White House. A museum dedicated to the sad event is found in the lower level, and the Petersen House across the way where Lincoln died illustrates how Washingtonians lived in that age. While sightseers can visit for free , patrons needing to attend a performance should expect to pay for tickets.
About the Author:
Jamie Grotter has been interested in attractions Washington DC for several years. She has written op-eds and editorial pieces about attractions in Washington DC for many online publications. For more details about things to do in Washington DCfeel free to visit her site.