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The federal district of Washington, D.C. sits at the core of the USA’s political sphere and this small but mighty capital city is brimming with landmark buildings and monuments, fascinating museums, art galleries, and historic neighbourhoods to explore.
Meander the city’s immaculate parks, avenues and natural spaces, dig into its global-inspired restaurants, and check out its wonderful music scene and buzzing nightlife, which are the result of a melting pot of cultures that makes D.C. such a unique and intriguing destination.
Washington, D.C. makes for a superb break for a few days on twin-centre holidays in the USA, but with so much to see and do beyond the White House, you could easily spend weeks here.
Washington D.C. Highlights
You don’t need to be a history buff to appreciate the profusion of iconic landmarks and significant sites in Washington, D.C. Together with a vast museum collection, historic neighbourhoods and multi-ethnic influences everywhere you turn, this unique capital city is more than just the home of the country’s president.
Uncover History
From the steps where Martin Luther King Jr. made his “I have a dream” speech to the place that holds the Declaration of Independence, Washington, D.C. is packed full of important sites and provides a gateway into America’s rich and complicated political and cultural past.
Multi-cultural City
Washington, D.C. has an ethnically diverse population with deep African American roots and a vibrant culture stemming from waves of immigrants from Ethiopia, El Salvador and many parts of East Asia. This is reflected in its music, its food and its architecture, which are all waiting to be explored and enjoyed.
Diverse Cuisine
An array of cultures and inspirations from all over the globe come together in this amazing city to forge a truly outstanding and unique dining scene. From the raw oyster bars and succulent local seafood offerings around the waterfront to the authentic eateries showcasing delectable fare from Africa, Asia and Central America, you’re spoilt for choice in D.C.
Excellent Museums
Make time for the marvellous venues along the 2-mile strip of the National Mall. With 10 Smithsonian Museums to its name – all free to enter – Washington, D.C. oozes history and is the place to visit for a glimpse into the USA’s relatively recent past, and to see how it has shaped the country it is today.
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Our Washington D.C. Highlights
- Washington, D.C. Attractions
- Washington, D.C. Shopping
- Washington, D.C. Nature
- Washington D.C. Food & Drink
The White House
You’re likely to have seen images of the US President’s impressive home a thousand times, but there’s nothing like seeing the White House in all its surreal glory. This imposing building offers many a photo op outside, but entering is a little more difficult and as a non-American, this usually requires applying weeks (or months) in advance through your country’s embassy in Washington.
Your best bet is to head for the Visitor’s Center, which features artefacts, information and exhibits to peruse and to get a feel for the history of this iconic landmark. The area around the White House is bustling with staff, tourists and diplomats as well as beautiful architecture and an excellent selection of dining establishments.
US Capitol & Capitol Hill
Sitting atop Capitol Hill at the eastern end of the National Mall is the US Capitol, the home of American democracy and the place where the country’s lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives have met to discuss, debate and pass legislation since 1800. This striking, neo-classical-style domed building is a must-visit on Washington multi-centre holidays and features several points of interest to observe if you take the interesting hour-long tour (free but passes are required).
The Capitol is spread over five levels and features notable rooms including the iconic Rotunda, where many important people have laid in state like Abraham Lincoln, JFK and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Absorb the history of the Old Supreme Court, the Old Senate Chamber and the Crypt with its impressive columns and arches.
Lincoln Memorial
Edging the west end of the National Mall sits the distinguished marble statue of the USA’s 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, who is seated underneath a beautifully lit neoclassical-style temple overlooking the Reflecting Pool and the towering Washington Monument. Behind him, the walls are engraved with the words of his Gettysburg Address and Second Inaugural Speech, as well as several murals depicting his philosophies.
The memorial holds a significant place in American history as a symbol of the Civil Rights movement and is the spot where Martin Luther King Jr gave his famous “I have a Dream” speech in 1963 – you can see his words etched into the landing 18 steps from the top. Visit after sunset for extra floodlit ambience and stunning views over the National Mall.
National Air & Space Museum
The wonderful National Air & Space Museum offers a brilliant way to spend a few hours, especially for those travelling with children. It’s home to arguably the most important collections of aviation and space voyage objects in the world including the original 1903 Wright Brothers’ Flyer aeroplane and Charles Lindbergh’s Spirit of St. Louis, as well as a host of terrific galleries and interactive exhibits.
Aviation enthusiasts or not, this lovely museum has plenty to entertain the whole family through educational programmes, activities, performances and even an IMAX theatre, which showcase America’s innovations and triumphs throughout the history of flight.
National Museum of African American History & Culture
Multi-centre holidays in Washington aren’t complete without a visit to the newest (and long overdue) addition to the Smithsonian collection, the National Museum of African American History and Culture. This captivating museum is devoted exclusively to detailing the history, culture and community of the African American experience that shaped the nation.
Various exhibitions on the museum’s lower levels that cover integral periods of America’s history – slavery, freedom and segregation – are moving and deeply reflective, while the upper floors feature a joyous array of African American achievements in music, sport and the visual arts.
National Archives Building
The National Archives Building is set just north of the National Mall and boasts more than 3 billion records in total. The most notable of these are three of the most important documents that not only carved out America’s political history but have continued to shape the country’s consciousness up to this very day: the Declaration of Independence, the US Constitution and the Bill of Rights.
All are exhibited in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom, which is understandably the most popular section of the museum. The Public Vaults adds an interactive element to the museum and often displays more than 1,000 documents at a time, which shows the extraordinary scope of American democracy.
U Street & 14th Street Corridor
With buckets of style and a rich history, U Street was once the heart and soul of Black culture in America and still to this day draws in locals and tourists alike with its vibrant mix of fantastic global cuisine, excellent shopping and a buzzing nightlife. Quirky, independent shops and boutiques line both U Street and 14th Street, where you can pick up amazing vintage clothing, records and home décor, while the Ethiopian food scene in the area is second to none.
Also, the 14&U farmers’ market every Saturday makes for a great spot to people-watch and to browse the stalls of locally produced fruit, vegetables, meat and bread.
National Harbor
Located 10 minutes outside of DC in Maryland, National Harbor Marina is a shopping, dining and entertainment destination all rolled into one. If your Washington twin-centre holidays include a little retail therapy, then you’ll love it here. There is a wide range of boutique shops selling luxury clothing labels, as well as gifts and speciality stores at this waterfront venue, where you could spend hours strolling along the promenade.
Also, The Tanger Outlet Mall is just a few minutes from the National Harbor and features loads of designer brands at amazingly discounted prices such as Calvin Klein, Hugo Boss, Polo Ralph Lauren, Hollister and J. Crew – perfect if you’re after some big-name bargains!
CityCenterDC
Set in Downtown DC, this expansive shopping centre is a one-stop haven for shoppers, diners and people-watchers alike with its reams of boutique shops amid its breezeways. Hop from shop to shop and browse the clothes, jewellery, gifts, skincare and even books that are on offer, before stopping for a quick sugar hit at one of the yummy gelato and coffee shops.
CityCenterDC’s open courtyard is also a fabulous place to hang out and enjoy one of the free live events that crop up regularly, from morning yoga to evening concerts, pop-up art installations and cocktail nights; there's something for everyone at this wonderful communal space!
Eastern Market
Consider going local for your shopping on Washington multi-centre holidays and head to the excellent Eastern Market for incredible farm-fresh food, handmade crafts and a buzzing atmosphere. This eclectic food and arts market is set in the Capitol Hill neighbourhood and has been a central part of the culture and community for more than 136 years, offering a wonderful spot to mix with locals and take home an authentic slice of DC.
From Tuesday to Sunday, hundreds of local farmers from Maryland, Virginia, Delaware, Pennsylvania and West Virginia deliver the freshest meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables and seafood. At weekends the market comes alive with music, performances and a rousing atmosphere so make sure to pop by!
Georgetown
The historic waterfront neighbourhood of Georgetown is a fashionable hotspot for both locals and tourists, offering an amazing yet peaceful shopping and dining scene amid its Instagram-worthy cobblestone streets and tree-lined avenues.
Start at the popular M Street, which connects the district to Foggy Bottom and Downtown D.C. and is home to a wide range of mainstream retail stores like H&M and Anthropologie as well as high-end designer shops, independent businesses and some great art galleries. Simply grab a coffee and wander at your own pace to enjoy its small-town ambience!
Smithsonian National Zoological Park
Often considered one of the world’s best zoos – particularly for its intense conservation efforts – this impressive park features more than 2,700 animals and is admired for its natural habitat exhibits, which have been closely replicated to mirror the natural environments for over 390 different species including birds, reptiles and many endangered animals.
Leading the show are the zoo’s beautiful giant pandas, Tian Tian, Mei Xiang and their cub Xiao Qi Ji who was born in 2020 and whose name means ‘little miracle’ in English. There is so much to see here that will excite and educate the entire family, from the Big Cat exhibits and elephant trails to the adorable Kids’ Farm where they can pet, feed and learn about caring for animals.
Jefferson Memorial & Tidal Basin
If you’re lucky enough to be in D.C. in the spring when it's famous cherry trees – a gift from Japan – are flourishing, take time to walk the Loop Trail of the shimmering Tidal Basin. This 107-acre man made reservoir is set between the Potomac River and the Washington Channel, providing the base for the annual National Cherry Blossom Festival and a place where locals love to jog, cycle, and even walk the dog during their downtime.
At its far end sits the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, a 19-foot bronze statue beneath a white domed building that is supported and encircled by 54 Ionic columns. Come here to contemplate Jefferson’s words that are etched into the walls, relax on the steps and soak up a moment of bliss amid city life.
US Botanic Garden & Bartholdi Park
For a slice of exotic nature right in the heart of Washington, D.C. visit the stunning US Botanic Garden, which sits at the foot of Capitol Hill. Its historic glass and iron conservatory provides a serene oasis amidst the fervent hum of the city and is abundant with colourful foliage, flowering plants, and tranquil pools across a range of stunning exhibits.
Outside there are various lush gardens to meander like the Rose, Pollinator and Kitchen Gardens, while Bartholdi Fountain and Gardens – located over the road – is a 2-acre paradise that displays sustainable landscaping styles and innovative garden design.
Rock Creek Park
The popular Rock Creek Park is a not-so-hidden gem of Washington, D.C. covering a beautiful area twice the size of Central Park in New York – more than 1,700 acres in fact. With 32 miles of connecting trails and loops to explore, Rock Creek Park provides a wondrous haven for hikers, cyclists, joggers and even horseback riders right in the middle of the city. While kids will love the fun educational programmes and wild animals to observe!
Enjoy a leisurely afternoon immersed in nature and discover its historic buildings and forts, as well as the free Nature Center, which houses the only planetarium in the National Park Service.
National Mall
The spacious expanse of lawns and cascading pools between the Lincoln Memorial and the Capitol encompasses many of D.C.’s greatest landmarks, including the formidable Washington Monument and several war memorials dedicated to the veterans who served and died or went missing in Vietnam, Korea and during World War II.
Alongside this reflective and poignant area is a park for walking, jogging and picnicking, plus it’s a central hotspot for festivals and celebratory events like Independence Day. If your twin-centre holidays bring you here in the summer, listen out for the military bands performing on the steps of the Capitol most evenings for a truly spectacular event.
The Wharf
This mile-long waterfront neighbourhood is D.C.’s most popular entertainment and dining destinations and is a terrific place to visit at any time of day, with an abundance of great restaurants, shops and events to check out. Seafood lovers should also visit the Municipal Fish Market, which dates back to 1805 and is the United States’ oldest continuously operating open-air fish market, where you can find fresh crabs, shrimps, lobster and much more.
Dining options are plentiful, and you can get anything from breakfast and brunch to dinner and cocktails, or perhaps just grab an ice cream and coffee and meander along the boardwalk people-watching and taking in the charming atmosphere.
Ben’s Chili Bowl
Located on the famous U Street, Ben’s Chili Bowl is undoubtedly the most iconic restaurant in Washington, D.C., and no multi-centre holidays in Washington are complete without a visit to this landmark institution. For 65 years this casual eatery has been the home of the city’s signature dish, the Chili Half Smoke – a unique style of hotdog served with mustard, onions, and topped with a spicy chili sauce.
Delighting the local community over the years with its mouthwatering food and friendly atmosphere, Ben’s Chili Bowl is a favourite haunt for celebrities and even former presidents, so don’t be surprised if there’s a queue outside!
Ethiopian Food
Did you know that Washington, D.C. is home to one of the largest Ethiopian communities outside of Africa? So sampling their delectable cuisine here is a must. Ethiopic is a popular restaurant located in the cool H Street Northeast neighbourhood, offering a casual vibe with its communal tables, background jazz and a cosy, candlelit setting, all celebrating Ethiopian culture.
Authentic Ethiopian fare is served with a modern twist on classical dishes, offering a great range of vegan, vegetarian and gluten-free options. Savour the flavourful herbs and spices, marinated cuts of lamb and beef as well as the delicious vegetable dishes with lentils, split peas and chickpeas. At the end, top it off with the gooey honey-nut baklava to satiate your sweet cravings!
Mumbo Sauce
This tangy, delicious sauce is a mainstay of the Washington, D.C. food scene and can be doused over practically any type of food, from rice and ramen noodles to fried chicken and chips. With a distinct red-orange colour and a similar yet sweeter taste to a classic barbecue sauce, mumbo sauce is found in food trucks, restaurants and cafés all over the city, and it’s well worth a try.
A typical Washingtonian mumbo sauce includes white vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, pineapple juice and hot sauce, encapsulating sweet, spicy and sour all in one glorious combination – don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it!
Oysters
Oysters are an extremely popular food staple in D.C. due to the city’s proximity to Chesapeake Bay, with dozens of excellent raw bars dotted all over the city. Eat right out of the half-shell and smother in lemon juice or wash them down with a sparkling glass of bubbly, either way it’ll be an unforgettable experience.
The Old Ebbitt Grill – Washington, D.C.’s oldest bar just around the corner from the White House – is a great place to start your oyster journey, with catches from both coastlines and an Oyster Happy Hour, this landmark bar is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Washington D.C. FAQs
Washington D.C. FAQs
Washington D.C. FAQs
D.C. enjoys distinct seasons, but the city’s temperature is milder compared with other parts of the USA’s east coast. July and August are the hottest months, often with hot and humid weather, while winter can be unpredictable and bring icy snowstorms, usually in January and February. Spring is beautiful and mild during the day with occasional rain and cooler nights; autumn is the driest season but otherwise much like spring.
You can fly directly into Washington D.C. Dulles International Airport (IAD) from London, which takes approximately 8 hours. There are frequent domestic flights in and out of the city from many airports including New York, Boston, Philadelphia and Orlando, making it an excellent destination for twin-centre holidays.
Washington, D.C. is just 5 hours behind the UK and in the same time zone as Florida. This means that flights from the UK will often depart in the afternoon to arrive early evening stateside, while the return leg usually departs in the evening, so you’ll land back in the UK the next morning.
Washington, D.C. works incredibly well with other eastern cities like New York, Boston and Philadelphia, offering you a real slice of US history and culture. You can easily fly, travel by rail or take a grand road trip between these incredible cities for epic Washington multi-centre holidays over one week, a fortnight, or more.
Public transport in and around Washington, D.C. is reliable and affordable, so hiring a car isn’t essential. Electric scooters and rental bikes are commonplace and as the nation’s number one ‘bicycle-friendly state’, there are ample routes throughout the city. Depending on your travel plans, if you wish to explore at your own pace further afield, then having your own car may prove to be worthwhile.
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