Unseen USA

The Nation's Capital

District of Columbia travel guide

Free world-class museums, monuments and the seat of government.

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Capital
Washington
Best time to go
Late Mar–Apr (cherry blossoms), Sep–Oct
Daily budget
$$$$ $280+ a day
Fly into
DCA Reagan National
IAD Dulles
BWI Baltimore

Big citiesHistory

Top places to visit in District of Columbia

  1. National Mall

    Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and more, all walkable.

  2. Smithsonian museums

    Air and Space, Natural History and more. All free.

  3. U.S. Capitol

    Free guided tours of the Congress building.

  4. Georgetown

    Cobblestone streets, shops and a riverfront.

  5. Library of Congress

    One of the most beautiful buildings in America.

What to eat in District of Columbia

  • Half-smoke sausage
  • Ethiopian food
  • Mumbo sauce wings
  • Crab cakes

When is the best time to visit District of Columbia?

Late Mar–Apr, Sep–Oct is usually the best time to visit District of Columbia (cherry blossoms). Expensive: $280+ a day for one person, including a shared hotel room and meals.

More of the South

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Budgets are rough mid-range costs per person, including a shared hotel room and meals. Always check opening times and prices before you go.