Washington DC Travelers Recommend

With free admission to the city’s national museums and monuments, Washington DC is an affordable place to soak up some culture. That said, it’s still easy to overspend on transport, tours, and dining. Here are a few ways to see more while spending less.

Take a Tour that Includes Transportation

There’s so much to see in Washington DC that you don’t want to waste time walking from one place to the next or navigating public transport. Instead, book a hop-on hop-off bus or trolley tour that takes you to all the top sights. Or, join a Segway or bike tour to learn about the history of top sights.

Book a Combo Tour

One of the best ways to see Washington DC is on a bus tour. To see the city from two perspectives, book a tour that combines a bus trip with a Potomac River cruise. That way, you get a discounted price for both excursions.

Choose a Tour that Includes Lunch or Tastings

In DC’s historic waterfront restaurants,, food and drinks can get expensive. Instead, take a food tour that includes enough tastings to fill you up, and let you get the inside scoop on local culture. Additionally, you can book a brunch or sunset cruise along the Potomac River and see the sights while indulging in an all-you-can-eat meal.  

Buy an Attractions Pass

Sightseeing passes such as the Washington DC Explorer Pass are a cost-effective way to enjoy popular attractions and activities such as Mount Vernon, a riverboat cruise, and a hop-on hop-off bus tour. By bundling the attractions together, you can see more without worrying about the price of each individual attraction.  

Warm weather energizes Washington DC during the summer months, with long days and plenty of sunshine that make it ideal for exploring. Here are a few ways to experience America’s charismatic capital city in summer, from museum hopping to cruises on the Potomac River.

• Enjoy the breeze on an open-air, hop-on hop-off bus or trolley as you check out the city’s highlights.
• Skip the heat of the day and take an evening tour of DC landmarks to see the monuments by moonlight.
• Splash into the Potomac River on a tour by amphibious vehicle.
• Zip between key spots on a Segway tour of DC highlights.
• See the Mount Vernon gardens in full bloom by booking a day trip from DC.
• Catch great views from the water aboard a Potomac River dinner or lunch cruise.
• Take advantage of cooler evening temperatures with an after-dark bike tour between top sights in DC.
• Visit the Smithsonian Museums for an afternoon in the air-conditioning.
• Explore the Washington Monument, using skip-the-line tickets to avoid waiting in the sun.
• Take a walking tour of Arlington National Cemetery, where summer brings a profusion of blooms.

Fall foliage makes a colorful backdrop for Washington DC’s towering monuments and landmarks, and autumn is a wonderful time to explore America’s capital. Whether you’re all about history, checking out art, or enjoying the view from the Potomac River, use these tips to get inspired for a fall trip to DC.

• Cruise between monuments on a hop-on hop-off bus tour.
• Enjoy views of brilliant fall color by taking a day trip to Gettysburg.
• Bundle up for a nighttime tour of DC monuments by autumn moonlight.
• Spot riverside foliage on a Potomac River cruise.
• Visit Mount Vernon on a day trip and see gardens touched by fall color.
• Take an African American history tour of the city.
• Pedal between sights on a guided bicycle tour of DC.
• Tour the moving monuments, memorials, and graves at Arlington National Cemetery.
• Check out the Smithsonian Museums’ natural wonders and masterpiece artwork.
• Discover DC’s best bites on a gourmet tour of U Street or Georgetown.

On the bucket list of many a traveler, Washington DC is a quintessential stop on any American road trip—but many visitors don’t realize there’s a lot more to the capital of the United States than history and politics. True, no stay in Washington DC is complete without snapping a photo in front of the White House, touring the majestic Capitol Building, and visiting historic structures like the Lincoln Memorial and Library of Congress, but don’t end your explorations there. Discover the city’s rich international food scene, dive into the exhibits at the Smithsonian museums on the National Mall, and experience artisanal cocktails and craft beer in chic urban centers and bohemian neighborhoods. Here’s our list of the top activities you can’t miss in Washington DC.

From the White House to the Lincoln Memorial, DC's monuments are the city's major calling card, attracting millions of annual visitors from the US and abroad. With a long list of can't-miss sites, here's how to see it all in the nation's capital.

What to See

• The White House — home to all the presidents since 1800 and a can’t-miss photo op for most visitors

• Capitol Hill — a historic district surrounding its crown jewel: the domed Capitol Building where Congress sits

• The National Mall — a 1,000-acre park in the heart of the city, dotted with more than a dozen monuments and memorials

• Tidal Basin — a manmade reservoir where you’ll find most of the monuments that aren’t on the Mall, including one of the newest: The Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

• The National Archives — a history-lover’s paradise and home to important documents like the original Constitution

How to Visit

• Admire the White House from the outside on a city walking tour, or plan in advance and arrange a self-guided tour through your member of Congress.

• Choose your preferred way to see the mall and Tidal Basin: on foot, bike, bus, Segway, or electric cart.

• Opt for an evening bus tour to see the monuments and memorials lit up against the night sky without the usual daytime crowds.

• If you want an inside look at DC past and present, book a VIP tour with priority access to the Capitol Building and National Archives.

With everything from hop-on hop-off bus tours to Segway excursions, there are numerous ways to explore the capital without dealing with the hassle of traffic. Read on for how to make the journey just as fun as the destination. 

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Trolley Tours

Ideal for time-pressed travelers, a hop-on hop-off bus or trolley tour lets you squeeze in all of Washington, DC’s top attractions—which include Capital Hill and the White House—without wasting time walking from one place to the next. Plus, commentary adds context to the sights.

Walking and Biking Tours

Walking or biking allows you to see parts of Washington, DC that you might otherwise miss. By joining a walking tour of the city, you can take in the sights at your own speed and not let small details pass you by. 

Segway Tours

Exploring the nation’s capital on a Segway is a fast and fun way to see the sights; tours let you glide through areas that are inaccessible by car without the exertion of walking or biking. Plus, traveling with a guide means that you don’t have to worry about navigating.

Public Transit

Washington DC’s robust public transport system makes it easy to travel by bus or Metro. While buses are the most affordable option, the underground rail system is simple and efficient, and lets you zip across town without encountering traffic. Just be sure to avoid heading to the Metro during peak commute times, when rides cost more and trains are packed. 

River Cruises

To see the city from a different perspective, hop on a Potomac River cruise. Traveling by water creates a peaceful environment for viewing the monuments, Admiral's Row, and Old Town Alexandria. A brunch or sunset dinner cruise is the ideal escape from the crowds on land. 

For United States history buffs, there’s no better bang for your buck than a visit to Washington DC. In the country’s capital, memorials to past conflicts and triumphs stand alongside working political hubs like Congress and the White House. Here are the top six places to get your American history fix in DC. The US Capitol Building Crowning Capitol Hill, the home of the US Senate and the House of Representatives is almost always buzzing with legislative activity. Free tours can be booked online in advance. Same-day passes are often limited, so it’s smart to plan ahead. The National Mall This open-air park extends from the US Capitol on the eastern end to the Lincoln Memorial and is visible across the city thanks to the towering Washington Monument. Discover the best photo ops on a small-group National Mall walking tour, and don’t miss seeing the monuments and memorials lit up at night. The White House The most famous address in America is 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, home to every president since John Adams. For US residents, White House tours can only be arranged through the visitor’s state representative. For foreign travelers to the US, a White House tour can be requested through the visitor’s embassy in Washington DC. With or without a reserved tour, the White House’s South Lawn can often be seen on bus and walking tours. National Archives See John Hancock’s original signature on the Declaration of Independence, plus other historic documents like the Bill of Rights and US Constitution in these climate-controlled archives. Many guided tours include reserved access, for a smoother visit without the wait. National Museum of American History Located on the National Mall, this free museum showcases American history and culture through artifacts like the original Star-Spangled Banner (the flag that inspired the country’s national anthem) and Dorothy’s ruby slippers from The Wizard of Oz film. Book a private tour for deeper insight into highlights of the museum’s nearly 2 million objects. Arlington National Cemetery Across the Potomac River but connected to central DC with a Metro stop, this hallowed burial ground is the final resting place of soldiers from armed conflicts dating back to the Civil War. The peaceful landscape is huge, so guided tours provide an efficient way to locate prominent grave sites like John F. Kennedy’s Eternal Flame, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, and the Iwo Jima Memorial.

Thanks to a gift from the mayor of Tokyo in 1912, Washington DC has been home to thousands of cherry trees for more than 100 years. The blooming season comes at the perfect time, when Washington's air starts to warm for spring but the real heat and humidity haven't yet set in. Read on for the best ways to see the US capital in full bloom.

When to Go

The National Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated from mid-March to mid-April each year in West Potomac Park—with a parade, kite-flying competition, fireworks, and more. While the city's exact peak bloom dates vary each year, they usually fall during the festival.

Where to Go

The most famous places to see blossoms are West Potomac Park, East Potomac Park, and the grounds of the Washington Monument, but the blooms don't end there. For a slightly less crowded spot, visit the National Arboretum and look for the special Okami cherry tree, which blooms early in the season and has a dark, rich color. You can also find the fleeting cherry blossoms in Foxhall Village near Georgetown and in Anacostia Park.

How to Go

Since many of the cherry blossom trees are by the water at Tidal Basin, a Potomac River cruise is a great way to see lots of pink petals in a short amount of time. Or, if you're focused on getting the best photo ops, try a walking tour guided by a professional photographer. See below for even more options.

Though Washington D.C is best-known for its monuments and museums, it also has a wide array of green spaces that offer respite from the hustle and bustle of city life. From the exotic plants of the U.S Botanic Garden to the hiking trails of Theodore Roosevelt Island, here are some of the best parks and gardens in Washington, D.C. 

U.S. Botanic Garden

Next to the Capitol Building, the U.S. Botanic Garden is home to plants from across the globe, including azaleas, lilies, orchids, and a tropical rainforest that spans different environments in the Conservatory.

United States National Arboretum

As well as boasting 22 Corinthian columns that once formed part of the Capitol building, the United States National Arboretum showcases ornamental trees and plants, and is home to the National Bonsai & Penjing Museum. One of the best times to visit is in spring, when the azalea collection is in bloom. 

Theodore Roosevelt Island

Managed by the National Park Service, Theodore Roosevelt Island is a fitting memorial to America’s 26th President, who was known as the Great Conservationist. Perched on the banks of the Potomac River, the island is a wilderness preserve home to several hiking trails.

Washington National Cathedral Gardens

Sitting atop the highest point in the city, 59 acres (24 hectares) of landscaped gardens surround the Washington National Cathedral. Bishop's Garden is home to magnolias and orchids; Little Garden resembles a medieval herb garden; and Olmsted Woods is the last vestige of an extensive oak and beech forest.

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

Especially appealing to birdwatchers, the 12-acre (5 hectare) Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens is a National Park site where you can spot nesting, aquatic, and woodland birds such as night herons, indigo buntings, bald eagles, and great egrets. The gardens also feature exotic water lilies, which are celebrated during the annual 2-day Lotus and Water Lily Festival.

Cherry trees aren’t the only things blooming during spring in Washington DC, where mild weather is an invitation for outdoor sightseeing, walks by the Potomac, and more. Here are our favorite ways to enjoy DC in the spring, one of the best times of year to visit the capital.

• See the city from the top of an open-air, hop-on-hop-off-tour bus.
• Celebrate Juneteenth at the National Museum of African American Heritage and Culture.
• Spot blooming cherry trees from the water on a Potomac River cruise.
• Make a day trip to Gettysburg, where springtime brings a carpet of flowers.
• Cruise between landmark monuments on a Segway tour of city highlights.
• Take a guided tour of the Smithsonian Museums.
• Turn lunch or dinner into a special occasion by dining aboard a Potomac River boat.
• Enjoy comfortable temperatures on a guided bicycle tour of DC.
• Brush up on your spycraft at the International Spy Museum.
• Pay your respects to soldiers, presidents, and astronauts buried in Arlington National Cemetery.

Winter brings chilly weather to America’s capital, but that’s the perfect excuse for cozy days of museum hopping, indoor sightseeing, and bundled-up walks between monuments, plus you’ll have fewer crowds to contend with. Here are our tips for making the most of your wintertime Washington DC visit.

• Cruise between landmarks in an enclosed hop-on hop-off bus or trolley.
• Take an interior tour of the United States Capitol Building.
• Watch the city light up on a tour of DC’s holiday light displays.
• Explore the Smithsonian Museums with an expert guide.
• Check out big views from the top of the Washington Monument.
• Learn the African American History of Washington DC on a guided tour.
• Practice your decoding skills at the International Spy Museum.
• Visit Arlington National Cemetery for a hop-on hop-off tour of key landmarks.
• Eat your way through U Street or Georgetown on a foodie walking tour.
• Discover the secrets of the National Gallery of Art.

Although Washington DC itself isn’t home to many colonial structures, there’s plenty within reach of the US capital that dates back to the period between the 1600s and 1775 (the beginning of the American Revolution). Outside the city, history lovers will find an abundance of sites and attractions that provide a glimpse at America’s earliest days. Here are a few options.

What to See

• Colonial Williamsburg — At this National Historic Landmark District, located in the city of Williamsburg, Virginia, colonial America comes to life through the 17th- and 18th-century architecture, period costumes, and more.

• Mount Vernon and Old Town Alexandria — The 18th-century vacation home that once belonged to George Washington, the first US President, sits just south of Alexandria, a riverside city whose historic Old Town dates back to 1749.

• Old Stone House — The oldest building in Washington DC, which dates back to 1765, still stands on its original foundation. Today it’s run by the National Park Service.

• Belair Mansion — This estate, built in the mid-1700s, is located outside Bowie, Maryland, and listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

How to Visit

• Take an overnight trip to Colonial Williamsburg, located 160 miles (260 kilometers) from Washington DC, to best experience this living museum, which is known for its ambitious historical reenactments.

• Book a Potomac River boat tour that stops at George Washington’s Mount Vernon, where you can explore the grounds and buildings, and Old Town Alexandria.

• In Georgetown, one of Washington DC’s toniest neighborhoods, be sure to stop by Old Stone House, the oldest building in the city.

• Take a half-day trip to Belair Mansion, just 20 miles (30 kilometers) east of the city, to view colonial architecture and artifacts.

Home to iconic monuments, famous government buildings, and the world’s largest museum complex, Washington DC offers a surfeit of must-see attractions. Even if you’re only visiting the nation’s capital for one day, introductory tours provide an efficient way to see the sights. Here’s how to plan your 1-day adventure.

Morning: Enjoy an Overview of the Landmarks

From the Washington Monument to the Lincoln Memorial, the White House to the US Capitol, DC is home to dozens of world-famous landmarks and monuments. Enjoy a speedy and stress-free way of sightseeing with a hop-on hop-off bus tour. Over the course of several hours, cruise past the city’s top attractions, and learn more about the District’s history from the audio narration. Multiple tour itineraries are available, depending on your interests, and some even include a stop at the Arlington National Cemetery, located across the border in Virginia.

Afternoon: Culture-Hopping at DC’s Museums

If Washington DC offers an abundance of open-air highlights, then its many museums are also essential sightseeing stops. After all, the city is host to the Smithsonian: The world’s largest museum complex, it comprises more than a dozen institutions across the city. Book guided tours of the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of Natural History, and more. Beyond the Smithsonian, you can also drop by other banner institutions, from the Newseum to the International Spy Museum.

Evening: Dinner Cruises and Skyline Viewing

Make the most of your limited amount of time in DC—and enjoy a relaxed dinner simultaneously—by booking tickets for a nighttime sightseeing cruise. Float along the Potomac River, see DC’s skyline and sights lit up at night, and dine as you go. Alternatively, evening Segway tours, bike tours, and photography tours all provide additional ways to get acquainted with the city’s after-dark charms.

With its array of world-famous landmarks, Washington DC is a dream destination for history buffs and politics junkies. But the city's also home to vibrant neighborhoods, an adventurous restaurant scene, and highbrow museums. A 2-day stay gives you the chance to see both sides of the city—here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

Day 1: Historical Highlights and Museum Masterpieces

**Morning:**From the Lincoln Memorial to the White House, Washington DC offers an incredible range of sightseeing musts. Cover as possible in a limited amount of time on a Segway or bike tour of the city.

**Afternoon:**Spend a few hours exploring DC’s world-class museums. The Smithsonian comprises more than a dozen different institutions, so you can admire rockets and planes in the National Air and Space Museum, take in famous canvases at the National Portrait Gallery, and more. Book guided tours to learn more about key collection highlights.

**Evening:**Round out your day of sightseeing with a stint aboard a hop-on hop-off bus. Settle into a comfortable perch, cue up your audio guide, and spend several hours coasting by the city’s top stops. An evening tour lets you enjoy special views of the monuments and memorials lit up after dark.

Day 2: DC’s Neighborhoods and Dining Destinations

**Morning:**Use your second day in DC to follow in locals’ footsteps, and visit the city’s lively and characterful neighborhoods. Begin with a walking tour of Georgetown, home to the eponymous university, and also renowned for its historical architecture and bustling shopping streets.

**Afternoon:**Continue your neighborhood tour with a visit to Dupont Circle. With its embassies, art galleries, and bookstores, this thriving neighborhood is a major DC hub. Walking tours focused on architecture, food, and culture introduce you to different sides of this dynamic area.

**Evening:**Politics aside, the nation’s capital also hosts an impressive and wide-ranging culinary scene. Wrap up your second day in town with a delicious food tour. Stick around Dupont Circle to explore its many eateries, head to vibrant 14th Street for a trendy dining excursion, or embark on a cocktail-themed walking tour for a decadent end to your trip.

From the iconic White House and the poignant Vietnam Veterans Memorial to some of America's most prestigious museums, Washington DC is teeming with tourist attractions. Visitors could spend days exploring the spirited city's sights, but even with just 24 hours, it's still possible to take in the highlights. To help you plan your trip, here are some dos and don'ts for one day in DC.

DON'T try to see everything in one day.

It's impossible to take in every single attraction in one day, so choose in advance what you want to see most. Opt for a tour of the White House or the Capitol, take in the view from the top of the  Washington Monument and then spend the afternoon hopping between the many landmarks along the National Mall. Alternatively, travelers can save time by booking a comprehensive sightseeing tour for an overview of the main sights. When it comes to DC's many museums, pick just one or two to explore—the US Holocaust Memorial Museum, the National Portrait Gallery and the National Air and Space Museum are all top choices, while children may be interested in the International Spy Museum or the National Geographic Museum.

DO book a guided sightseeing tour.

With so many sights to see, it can be hard to come up with a DIY plan and make sure you don't miss anything. Booking a guided tour saves both times and effort, leaving travelers free to enjoy the city rather than poring over a map. Opt for a Washington DC in one day tour for a prearranged guided tour of the US Capitol, a stop at the White House Visitors Center, and the opportunity to visit the museums of your choice. Alternatively, a full-day DC sightseeing tour may combine sights like the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial, and the World War II Memorial with an atmospheric river cruise along the Potomac River and around Theodore Roosevelt Island.

DON'T leave your planning until the last minute.

Touring the Capitol Building is an undeniable highlight, but don't expect to just turn up and gain entry on the spot—tickets are hard to come by. But a VIP best of DC tour includes coveted reserved entry to the Capitol and the National Archives Building. Booking museum and attraction tickets in advance will also save time.

DO make an early start.

Don’t underestimate how long you'll spend touring the top attractions—16 million tourists descend on the US capital every year and the crowds can be enormous. Opt to visit the most popular spots as early as possible to avoid the biggest crowds; most sights open between 8:30 and 10am. If visiting in the summer, make the most of the nice weather and explore the city by night. Also be sure to allot time for lines and security checks.

DON'T spend too much on entrance fees.

Budget-conscious travelers will be pleased to know that many of Washington's attractions are free, including all 19 Smithsonian museums and the Library of Congress, so there's no need to spend a fortune on entrance fees. Instead, opt for a memorable city tour, a sunset dinner cruise along the scenic Potomac River, a hop-on, hop-off trolley pass or a VIP experience.

From the grand sweep of the National Mall to the storied museums of the Smithsonian, Washington DC has so many top-notch monuments and attractions that seeing the city’s highlights is a daunting proposition. But this 3-day itinerary is a good place to start. Here’s how to plan an introduction to the nation’s capital (and beyond).

Day 1: Politics and History

DC has more than its fair share of world-famous landmarks. In addition to top government buildings like the White House and the Supreme Court, the nation’s capital also boasts the soaring spire of the Washington Monument, the hallowed halls of the Lincoln Memorial, the moving Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and much more. For an efficient way to sightsee, book a hop-on hop-off bus tour, which will whisk you past most of the city’s highlights. For a more intimate experience that still cover a lot of ground, opt for a bicycle or Segway tour. Meanwhile, walking tours immerse you in the history underlying DC’s must-see attractions. In the evening, relax during a sightseeing cruise, which will give you the chance to rest your feet and take in the after-dark sights as you float along the Potomac River.

Day 2: Museums and Culture

If you’re a museum lover, there are few better places to be than DC. For starters, it’s home to the world’s largest museum complex, the Smithsonian Institute, which includes more than a dozen different institutions. Depending on your interests, you can discover groundbreaking artworks at the National Portrait Gallery, the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden, or the American Art Museum. Or learn about important moments in history at the National Museum of American History, the National Museum of African American Culture and History, or the National Museum of the American Indian. You can even admire rockets and planes at the National Air and Space Museum. Book in advance to make logistics simple, or go on guided collection tours to really dig into the subjects at hand. In the evening, venture to one of the city’s arty neighborhoods—think 14th Street or Dupont Circle—for dinner and a different kind of cultural immersion.

Day 3: A History-Themed Virginia Getaway

While DC’s many diversions could occupy you for weeks on end, it’s worth using your trip to the nation’s capital as an excuse to explore other regional highlights. On your third day in town, cross the border into Virginia to discover the state’s many charms. Known as the “Mother of Presidents,” Virginia is where a number of the Founding Fathers spent their days. Venture to Mt. Vernon to follow in the footsteps of George Washington, or explore Monticello. Once home to Thomas Jefferson, the estate is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Both historical residences are accessible by car from DC; guided tours provide an especially convenient way to explore. Of course, there’s also Colonial Williamsburg. A living-history museum, the town is full of costumed residents and traditional buildings that paint a picture of what daily life was like in the 18th century. 

A melting pot of acclaimed chefs, food aficionados, and sustainability-minded restaurant owners, Washington DC has developed a diverse array of specialties, many of which are borrowed from or inspired by cultures across the globe. Immerse yourself in the capital city’s rich food scene with our recommendations below.

Must-Try Dishes

Delve into the multicultural side of Washington DC’s food scene with traditional Ethiopian meat and vegetable dishes and Salvadoran pupusas, staples for many DC locals. For another international favorite, try a Georgian cheese-and-egg-filled pastry boat, known as a Khachapuri.

While you could dine in a “different country” each day of your stay, your trip wouldn’t be complete without sampling the capital’s personal classics. Start with a chili half-smoke (sausage covered in chili) on U Street, then class things up with Chesapeake oysters at one of the many restaurants along the Potomac waterfront. For dessert, don’t miss an excuse to stop by one of DC’s gourmet cupcake shops.

Must-Do Experiences

• Explore the history and culinary culture of Capitol Hill on a food excursion that adds an interesting—and tasty—twist to the run-of-the-mill sightseeing tour.
• Dine in the chic Embassy Row–influenced Dupont Circle on a food tour that takes you to the city’s top international eateries.
• Get a feel for dynamic U Street on a tour that leads you to hole-in-the-wall Ethiopian establishments overlooked by most tourists.
• Take in downtown DC’s wine, spirits, and historic sites on a pedicab tour of Penn Quarter and Chinatown, a fun and carefree way to navigate the busy streets.
• Get away from the bustling city and experience a different view of the nation’s capital on a dinner cruise along the Potomac River.

Washington DC isn’t just a popular destination for history buffs. Thanks to its diverse neighborhoods and international communities, it’s also home to a wide range of culinary offerings. From Ethiopian platters to hearty Italian fare, from beloved chili dogs to indulgent cupcakes, here’s what you should be sure to sample while visiting the capital.

Chili Half-Smoke

One of DC’s most beloved eateries, located on U Street (an area once referred to as “the Black Broadway”), Ben’s Chili Bowl has been a local staple since the 1950s. President Obama made waves when he visited the restaurant in 2009, and you can follow in his footsteps when you drop by and order a chili half-smoke (chili dog).

Ethiopian Combination Platter

DC’s delicious U Street area is also home to a thriving Ethiopian community. If you’re new to the cuisine, order a combination platter, which typically consists of numerous spice-laden stews, all served atop a round of injera (spongy flatbread that tastes like sourdough and takes the place of silverware).

Cupcakes

If you have a sweet tooth, look out for Georgetown Cupcake, one of the city’s most popular and successful dessert chains. Locations are now found all over DC, though pretty Georgetown is, as the name suggests, where the company got its start. Enjoy classics such as red velvet or inventive flavors including strawberry lemonade and butterscotch waffle cone.

Steak

DC is home to plenty of movers and shakers, and while their politics may differ, there’s one thing most of them can agree on: steak. Consequently, the capital is home to a surfeit of traditional steakhouses. For a lavish dinner out, order a porterhouse or chateaubriand with truffle fries on the side.

Pasta

Italian is among the most popular cuisines in Washington DC, and if you head to vibrant neighborhoods such as Dupont Circle, you can look forward to a decadent introduction to the city’s trattorias and other traditional eateries. Enjoy seasonal pasta dishes, or go off-piste with risotto.

Pupusas

Salvadoran cuisine is a mainstay in DC—often served alongside Mexican food in restaurants—and its signature dish has become a favorite in the capital. Think of pupusas as thick, pancakey tortillas, frequently stuffed with cheese, refried beans, and chicharrónes (pork rinds).

From modern art to the art of journalism, and from natural history to the history of spying—Washington DC's museums have it all. Read on for the best ways to visit the famous Smithsonian collections, plus other unique exhibits across the capital.

The Smithsonian

Found around Washington DC, the Smithsonian Institution is made up of 19 free museums, many of which are must-sees set at the National Mall, including the National Air and Space Museum, the National Museum of American History, and the National Museum of Natural History.

**How to Visit:**For an in-depth experience at a Smithsonian museum, book a small-group or private tour with a guide whose commentary will bring the exhibits to life. Also keep in mind that while you can visit any Smithsonian museum for free, timed passes are required for the National Museum of African American History and Culture (reservable online with a limited number of same-day walk-up passes available on weekdays only).

The International Spy Museum

This perennial favorite for kids and adults is home to the world’s largest collection of espionage-related artifacts.

**How to Visit:**The International Spy Museum is open daily, but hours vary seasonally, so check before you go. Save time by buying your ticket in advance, and plan to spend about two hours exploring the interactive exhibits.

The Phillips Collection

America's first modern art museum, the Phillips Collection houses more than 4,000 pieces by Matisse, Van Gogh, Diebenkorn, and other masters.

**How to Visit:**Open Tuesday through Sunday, this collection is easily reachable on a hop on, hop off bus tour. Consider downloading the museum’s free app to guide your visit, or pick up an interactive Discovery Pack at the admission desk if you're visiting with kids.

If you’re looking for a getaway for two, Washington, DC is a great choice. Historic grandeur, natural beauty, and delectable food create the perfect romantic escape. Here’s how to make your experience extra romantic. 

Sunset Cruising Along the Potomac

Escape the crowds on land and glide along the Potomac River on a cruise. Options range from luxury yachts with live music to intimate private tours with candlelit dinners. 

Tour the Monuments at Night

No trip to Washington, DC is complete without a tour of the national monuments; make sightseeing romantic by heading out after dark on an evening tour. Stroll along low-lit pathways, admire chiseled statues, and stop to sit by reflection pools. Cover more sights in less time on a rickshaw tour. 

Explore Historic Neighborhoods

From historic homes to quaint waterfront streets lined with boutiques and cafes, Wahsington’s architecture is diverse. See the highlights at a more relaxed pace, and avoid having to ask strangers to take photos of you, on a private walking tour. 

Wine and Dine

In a town filled with gourmet restaurants and wine bars, don’t miss the chance to indulge in a night out. Enjoy cocktails on a rooftop bar overlooking the city, sample diverse flavors on a food tour, or explore the surrounding vineyards on a winery tour. 

Stop to Smell the Cherry Blossoms

For the ultimate romantic experience in Washington, DC, visit when the cherry blossoms are in bloom, which is typically over March and April. When the trees are flowering, the National Mall is typically full of visitors so leave the crowds behind and take your sweetheart on a hand-in-hand stroll through the peaceful, blossom-filled East Potomac Park. 

America’s capital city is dotted with memorials, museums, and majestic monuments paying tribute to our nation’s past. It’s also a modern city of hip neighborhoods, a buzzing nightlife, and a palpable sense of power. Here are some ways to experience Washington DC like a local.

Highlights

• Hop aboard a boat for a lunch cruise along the Potomac River, passing DC landmarks, such as the Washington Monument, Woodrow Wilson Bridge, and Admiral’s Row, along the way.

• Pedal along the scenic Mount Vernon Trail from Old Town Alexandria to historic Mount Vernon on a self-guided bike tour.

• Take your taste buds on a food tour through Little Ethiopia, home of the largest Ethiopian community outside Ethiopia.

• Learn about DC’s vibrant African-American community and culture, including easy-to-miss street art and unmarked historic homes, during a walking tour of U Street.

• Rent a kayak and take in the sights and sounds of the Capitol Riverfront from the Anacostia River.

• Satisfy your sweet tooth on a pastry tour through Eastern Market in historic Capitol Hill, stomping grounds of historic figures and modern-day politicians.

Washington DC has such a surfeit of world-class museums that it’s nearly impossible to narrow down the offerings, but there are a few heavy hitters no art enthusiast should miss. From the Smithsonian Institution to independent galleries, here are the capital’s must-see museums.

National Gallery of Art

Among the world’s largest and most esteemed art museums, the colossal National Gallery of Art is home to some 141,000 artworks, which primarily represent European and American traditions dating from the Middle Ages to the modern period. Today, the museum is spread across three locations: its neoclassical West Building, I.M. Pei–designed East Building, and a sculpture garden. Collection highlights include pieces by masters such as Leonardo da Vinci, Raphel, and Van Gogh.

Hirshhorn Museum

Opened in 1974 and located right on the National Mall, the Hirshhorn Museum (and its companion sculpture garden) is part of the Smithsonian Institution—the world’s largest museum complex. One of the county’s most-visited art museums, this showcase for contemporary art has hosted retrospectives by artists the likes of Ai Weiwei and Yayoi Kusama.

Smithsonian American Art Museum

Another highlight of the Smithsonian Institution, the Smithsonian American Art Museum holds one of the largest American art collections in the world. Alongside the Renwick Gallery—a satellite branch of the museum—it showcases everything from early American colonial art to cutting-edge contemporary pieces by luminaries such as Kerry James Marshall and Nam June Paik.

National Portrait Gallery

Open since 1968 in Washington DC’s Old Patent Office Building, the National Portrait Gallery displays upwards of 23,000 portraits across all mediums. The museum is particularly well-known for its blockbuster presidential portraits, and President Obama’s portrait by Kehinde Wiley (paired with First Lady Michelle Obama’s portrait by Amy Sherald) is among its most sought-out works.

Smithsonian National Museum of African Art

Another major art institution located on the National Mall, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art was the country’s first museum devoted to African art when it was established in 1964. It has since been described as a mainstay of the international art world and showcases close to 12,000 objects, which span centuries, cultures, and media.

National Museum of Women in the Arts

Still the only major museum in the world dedicated to women’s achievements in the arts, the National Museum of Women in the Arts, founded in 1981, celebrates female artists across the centuries. Located in the city’s old Masonic Temple (a National Historic Landmark), the museum’s collection includes pieces by roughly 1,000 artists, including Georgia O’Keeffe, Frida Kahlo, Mary Cassatt, Judy Chicago, and Helen Frankenthaler.