Washington, DC, the U.S. capital, is a compact city on the Potomac River, bordering the states of Maryland and Virginia. It’s defined by imposing neoclassical monuments and buildings – including the iconic ones that house the federal government’s 3 branches: the Capitol, White House and Supreme Court. It's also home to iconic museums and performing-arts venues such as the Kennedy Center. ― Google
Spring (March–May): 🌸 Cherry Blossom season (late March–early April), mild weather, great for walking.
Fall (September–November): Colorful foliage, comfortable temps, fewer tourists.
Summer (June–August): Popular but hot and humid; expect crowds, especially during holidays like the Fourth of July.
Winter (December–February): Quieter and budget-friendly, but cold; museums still open and festive during holidays.
By Air:
Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA): Closest, 15 mins to downtown via Metro.
Dulles International (IAD): Major international airport, ~45 minutes west.
Baltimore/Washington (BWI): Another option, ~1 hour north.
By Train:
Amtrak to Union Station: Direct connections from NYC, Philadelphia, Boston, and more.
MARC/VRE: Regional trains from Maryland and Virginia suburbs.
By Bus:
Megabus, Greyhound, BoltBus, and FlixBus to Union Station or downtown hubs.
National Mall – A 2-mile stretch home to monuments and Smithsonian museums.
Smithsonian Museums (Free):
National Air and Space Museum
National Museum of Natural History
National Museum of American History
National Gallery of Art
National Museum of African American History and Culture
U.S. Capitol Building – Free tours with advance reservation.
White House – Exterior view always available; interior tours require advance planning via your embassy or Congressperson.
Lincoln Memorial – One of the most iconic monuments.
Washington Monument – Free tickets to the top (reserve online).
Jefferson, MLK Jr., and FDR Memorials – Scenic along the Tidal Basin.
Tidal Basin – Paddle boats and cherry blossoms in spring.
Library of Congress – Gorgeous interior and historic manuscripts.
Arlington National Cemetery – Visit JFK’s grave and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Metro: Clean, safe, color-coded system; best for reaching major attractions
Bus: Use the DC Circulator ($1) for easy routes around key spots
Bike/Scooter: Capital Bikeshare or Lime scooters for short distances
Walk: The National Mall is walkable end-to-end (wear good shoes!)
Luxury:
The Hay-Adams – Historic and elegant, views of the White House
The Willard InterContinental – Famous old-school charm
Mid-range:
Hotel Hive – Micro rooms, fun vibe near the Mall
CitizenM – Trendy, modern, central
Budget:
HI Washington Hostel – Social, affordable, walkable
Motto by Hilton – Clean, compact rooms downtown
Neighborhood Tips:
Downtown/National Mall: Best for sightseeing
Dupont Circle/Logan Circle: Lively, local feel
Georgetown: Upscale, historic charm
Adams Morgan/U Street: Nightlife and food scene
D.C. is a global food hub with a strong international presence.
Signature Dishes & Local Favorites:
Half-smoke sausage (Ben’s Chili Bowl is the spot)
Maryland blue crab (in season)
Ethiopian cuisine (D.C. has the largest Ethiopian population outside Ethiopia)
Salvadoran pupusas
Michelin-starred fine dining
Top Restaurants:
Le Diplomate – Parisian bistro experience
Old Ebbitt Grill – Historic American near the White House
Maydan – North African and Middle Eastern (James Beard Award)
Rasika – Upscale Indian
Founding Farmers – Farm-to-table comfort food
Ben’s Chili Bowl – Classic D.C. eatery
Free Performances:
Kennedy Center Millennium Stage – Free daily shows
Shakespeare Theatre and Arena Stage – Great local theater
Live Music:
9:30 Club, The Anthem, Blues Alley
Festivals:
National Cherry Blossom Festival (March–April)
Smithsonian Folklife Festival (June–July)
DC Jazz Festival (September)