Must Sees of Washington, DC
By Rachel Cooper, About.com Guide
There is so much to see and do in Washington, DC that
you can’t see it all in just one visit. A well-rounded trip should
include exploring the National Mall
and some other activities too! Here are some tips to help you get
around the popular attractions and some suggestions of fun and more
relaxing things to do in the region.
1. Visit the Smithsonian
Photo © Smithsonian Institution
Start
at the Smithsonian Institution Building where you can pick up a map and
information on all of the museums. These national treasures cover a
wide range of subjects from art to space exploration. Plan to explore
those you are most interested in, but don’t try to see everything at
once. Be sure to save time to see an IMAX movie at the Natural History Museum or the National Air and Space Museum.
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2. Tour the National Monuments and Memorials
Photo © Rachel Cooper, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Our
national monuments are truly spectacular. The best time to see them is
at night when they are illuminated, less crowded and parking is easier.
During daytime visits, take a tour bus. Listen to informative park
ranger talks and you won’t have to negotiate congested city traffic.
3. Tour the Three Houses of Government
Photo © Architect of the Capitol
Explore
the U.S. Capitol Building, the White House and the U.S. Supreme Court
and you will gain a fuller understanding of the division of power within
our democratic government. Plan ahead and note that some tours must be
scheduled in advance through your Congressional Representative.
4. Take a Walk Through Georgetown
Photo © Rachel Cooper, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Georgetown
is the capital’s historic waterfront that today is bustling with
activity. The area is a shopper’s paradise and the streets are lined
with restaurants of every nationality. Take a tour of historic sites, do
some shopping and enjoy a meal at a local restaurant.
5. Walk, Bike, or Kayak Along the C & O Canal
Photo © Rachel Cooper, licensed to About.com, Inc.
The
Washington DC region is lucky to have this wonderful historic park that
offers a quick relief from hectic city life. Take the whole family for a
walk and learn about the historic C & O Canal, explore the region's
bike trails or spend a few hours kayaking and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
6. See a Show or Concert at the Kennedy Center
Photo © Carol Pratt
Live
theatrical productions at the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing
Arts are entertainment at its finest. Purchase tickets in advance for
performances ranging from musicals to concerts by the National Symphony
or see a free show at the Millennium Stage.
7. Attend a Concert at Wolftrap Farm Park
Photo © Wolf Trap Farm Park
Listen
to all types of music at this national park dedicated to the performing
arts. Outdoor concerts are featured in the summer and indoor
performances are held the rest of the year. The park is located in
Vienna, Virginia, just 20 minutes from Washington, DC.
8. Take a Hike at Great Falls Park
Photo © Rachel Cooper, licensed to About.com, Inc.
Take
a picnic and enjoy spectacular views of the Potomac River at this 800
acre park, located just 14 miles from Washington DC. Great Falls offers a
variety of activities including hiking, kayaking, rock climbing,
bicycling, and horseback riding.
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9. Explore Mount Vernon
Photo © Mount Vernon Ladies Association
With
the recent addition of the new museum and education center, Mount
Vernon is now a full day excursion. Explore the state of the art
galleries and theaters, visit the 500-acre estate of George Washington
and his family, tour the 14-room mansion that is beautifully restored
and furnished with original objects dating back to the 1740's. Be sure
to plan enough time to tour the outbuildings, including the kitchen,
slave quarters, smokehouse, coach house and stables. The estate is
located in Northern Virginia, just minutes from Washington, DC.
10. Take a Walking Tour of Old Town, Alexandria
Photo © Erik Kvalsvik/Courtesy City of Alexandria
Explore
a quaint historic town just over the Potomac River from Washington, DC.
The lively waterfront area has plenty of things to do. Visit colonial
houses, public parks, churches, museums, a marina, unique shops, and
restaurants.
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