Washington DC Travel Guide: The Best of the Nation’s Capital

Washington DC, the capital of the United States, is a city that has something for everyone. From museums and monuments to food and entertainment, Washington DC is a destination that should be on every traveler’s list. In this travel guide, we’ll explore some of the best things to see and do in this Washington DC travel guide, as well as provide some tips for planning your trip.

Getting to Washington DC

We drove from New York City to Washington DC and it took us under 4 hours with one stop!

Transportation Options:

Washington DC is easily accessible by plane, train, or car. The city boasts three main airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI). Each airport provides various transportation choices including taxis, Uber/Lyft, shuttle buses, and public transit.

Driving Tips:

If traveling by car, consider traffic patterns, especially during rush hours. Public transportation like the Metro system is recommended for navigating the city efficiently.

Exploring the Monuments and Memorials in Washington DC

One of the most iconic features of Washington DC is its monuments and memorials. From the Lincoln Memorial to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, these landmarks are a tribute to the country’s history and culture.

The National Mall is a park in the heart of Washington DC that is home to many of the city’s monuments and memorials.

Start at the National Mall, a sprawling park that houses many of these landmarks:

Lincoln Memorial: Visit this majestic monument featuring a statue of President Abraham Lincoln, surrounded by columns and reflecting pools.
Washington Monument: Marvel at the towering obelisk honoring George Washington, offering picturesque views from various angles including the Tidal Basin and Lincoln Memorial steps.

Additional Memorials: Don’t miss the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Korean War Veterans Memorial, and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial, each offering unique perspectives on American history and sacrifice.

Lincoln Memorial:

Address: 2 Lincoln Memorial Circle NW, Washington, DC 20037

This iconic landmark features a larger-than-life statue of President Abraham Lincoln and is surrounded by beautiful columns and reflecting pools.

From the stairs of the Lincoln Memorial you can look out towards the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. The World War II monument is right at the other end of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. This is where I took this photo!

Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool

Washington Monument:

Address: 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20006

Standing 555 feet tall, this obelisk-shaped monument honors the first President of the United States.

The Washington Monument is the tallest building in Washington DC and there’s tons of places to take photos of it from! You can take a photo right next to the monument, catch a picture from it from on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, or get a photo of it from the Tidal Basin.

Visiting the Museums

Cultural Treasures: Washington DC boasts a wealth of museums, many of which are free to enter. Highlights include:

Smithsonian National Museum of American History: Explore exhibits such as the Star-Spangled Banner and First Ladies’ Inaugural Gowns.
National Air and Space Museum: Learn about flight and space exploration, featuring artifacts from the Wright Brothers to the Apollo Moon landing.
National Museum of Natural History: Discover the world’s largest collection of natural history specimens, including dinosaur fossils and the famed Hope Diamond.
Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden: Immerse yourself in contemporary art, showcasing works by global artists.

If you prefer to take the train, Amtrak and regional rail services offer frequent service to Washington DC’s Union Station. D=riving, be aware that traffic in and around the city can be heavy, especially during rush hour. If possible, consider using public transportation instead.

The White House

Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, DC 20037

If you’re standing with your back against the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial to your left, The White House will be in the distance in front of you.

If you want to get a picture of it- your best bet is to go across Constitution Avenue and then cross over to The Ellipse lawn. From there, you’ll be able to see the White House more closely through the barriers (and maybe sneak your camera in). Honestly, although it’s the most famous- it’s not really the most photographic place in Washington due to all the barriers and security.

Planning Your Trip

When planning your trip to Washington DC, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, the city can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season in the summer. Consider visiting in the spring or fall for fewer crowds and more pleasant weather.

Another thing to keep in mind is that many of the city’s attractions require tickets or reservations in advance. If there’s a specific museum or monument you want to visit, be sure to book tickets ahead of time to avoid disappointment.

Finally, when packing for your trip, be sure to bring comfortable walking shoes and clothing appropriate for the season. Washington DC is a walkable city, and you’ll likely be doing a lot of walking as you explore. In conclusion, Washington DC is a destination that has something for everyone, whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or nightlife. By following our travel guide and planning ahead, you’ll be able to make the most of your trip to this vibrant city.

Here’s a photo of Ryan getting the directions ready to our next step, just for fun.

And there you have it! My full Washington DC travel guide!