Top Tourist Attractions in Washington, DC, USA
Washington, District of Columbia, is a historic city with life and culture that make it unlike any other nation. The capital of the United States is more than just political power; it also serves as an important historical landmark. While many tourists focus on visiting monuments, galleries, and museums, Washington, DC, has much more to offer.
See the best things to do in Washington, DC, from sightseeing at landmarks like the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial to a full day of fun at the Smithsonian.
The White House and the Capitol are only part of the picture. Washington, DC, is a treasure trove of museums, memorials, and monuments, each telling its own story of American history and culture.
10 best places to visit in Washington, DC, for your next vacation
- National Mall
- Lincoln Memorial
- Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
- Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
- Smithsonian National Zoological Park
- National Museum of African American History and Culture
- Smithsonian National Museum of American History
- Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
- Washington Monument
- National Gallery of Art
Best things to do in Washington, District of Columbia
If you want to explore the world’s most powerful city with a local’s knowledge of sightseeing, our list of must-see attractions should be able to help you out.
If history is your thing, don’t miss the American History Museum and the National Mall. Be sure to see the Capitol Building and White House as well. If you’re looking to take advantage of all that nature has offered, joy a hike in Rock Creek Park or visit the U.S. Botanic Garden and its lovely greenhouse. In no time at all, you’ll feel like a District native!

Washington is one of the top US travel destinations, and not just because of its various memorials, museums, and landmarks. It’s also home to some of the best places to eat and drink, so you’ll want to be sure to pack your appetite for your trip.
Places to go in Washington, DC, to experience history, nature, science, and culture
Washington D.C. is a city that centers on its museums, monuments, and history, which is why it should not be surprising that the city offers something for every type of visitor. With so many free attractions available to tourists, as well as beautiful parks, it’s possible to have an almost free vacation in Washington D.C. if one desires.

I hope you will make it a point to visit as many of these museums, monuments, and memorials as your schedule permits. Each of these places deserves our full attention and respect for the history they hold within their walls. Visiting these historic places gave me a new perspective on Washington, DC, and increased my love for the nation I grew up.
Enjoy all the must-see tourist attractions in Washington, DC
Washington, DC, is the capital of the United States of America. It’s a city that reflects the American story.
- It’s where JFK gave his famous “Ask what you can do for your country” speech in 1961.
- It’s where Martin Luther King Jr had his Change Comes to Washington march for jobs and freedom in 1963.
- It’s also where Ronald Reagan called upon Gorbachev to “tear down this wall” in 1987.

If you’ve never visited DC, there are plenty of things to see – but make sure you don’t miss the top ten attractions!
The nation’s capital has many must-see sights for tourists, residents, and history buffs. Whether you’re into history and culture or want something fun to do with the family, Washington, DC, truly has it all.
There’s no shortage of places to see in Washington, District of Columbia
The monuments and museums in Washington, DC, are undoubtedly top-notch. But there is much to see and do besides these attractions. By exploring the neighborhoods beyond the typical tourist routes, you can get to know the DC area.

From guided tours of Georgetown homes to thrilling architecture, from civil war fortifications to vibrant street art, Washington has something for everyone. No matter what you’re interested in, you will find it in DC.
The diversity of attractions and things to see in Washington, DC, is definitely one of its biggest draws, and it shows how Washington thrives on its past but also looks toward the future.
Top picks for where to go in Washington, District of Columbia
It’s no secret that DC is one of the most popular travel destinations in the U.S. From its red-brick buildings to its historical monuments to the gorgeous parks and waterfronts that line the city, Washington DC has something fantastic around every corner, and we’ve highlighted some of our favorites here.

If you’re looking for where to go in Washington, DC, these destinations will most likely entice you out of your hotel and into a day of exploring the city.
Discover the nation’s capital with this guide to what to see in Washington, DC
Now that you’ve taken in this great city’s sights, sounds, and tastes, it’s time to call it quits and head back home to wherever that may be. But before you leave, make sure to grab a last-minute souvenir from this fine city.

You’ll re-visit these souvenirs over the years and remember your time spent in the beautiful nation’s capital – hopefully, it won’t be long before you come back!