5 Best Attractions To Visit In Washington D.C.

5 Best Attractions To Visit In Washington D.C.

With over 16 million tourists per year, it’s no surprise Washington D.C. has a wide variety of activities and attractions to visit. Museums, memorials, restaurants, the list goes on and on. Any well rounded trip should explore a little bit of everything, including National Mall. While many attractions can have daunting lines, you won’t want to miss out on these 5 opportunities.

1. Smithsonian Institution Building

Founded in 1846, the Smithsonian Institution Building actually consists of 19 museums and galleries, 9 research facilities, and the National Zoological Park. Therefore, it is recommended to only visit the exhibits you are most interested in viewing. Otherwise, you won’t be able to focus and enjoy the experience. Topics of interest cover a wide range, including: art, space exploration, natural history, and more.

2. National Archives Museum

Any history buff or educational visit has to visit the National Archives Museum. This museum is open every day except for Christmas and Thanksgiving Day; and contains the original documents to priceless pieces of history, such as: the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, and the United States Constitution.

3. Lincoln Memorial

This iconic landmark is not only a tribute to former President Abraham Lincoln for his fight to preserve and protect our nation during the Civil War; but it is also the home to many of the most famous speeches and events since 1922. A prime example was during 1963, when Martin Luther King, Jr.’s gave his famous “I Have a Dream” speech.

4. Mount Vernon Estate

Located just minutes from Washington D.C., Mount Vernon was once the home to George Washington and his family. The 14 room mansion sits on 500 acres and is furnished with original items dating all the way back to the 1740’s. Built during the last half of the 18th century, make sure to give yourself plenty of time. Aside from the mansion, there is also: various outbuildings, gardens, landscapes, tombs, a distillery, gristmill, pioneer farm, and more.

5. The White House

What visit would be complete without a trip to our nation’s capital? However, unless you only want to visit the White House Visitor’s Center, you need to request a public tour through one of your members of congress. The public tours are limited to groups consisting of 10 or more.