Being home to some of the most interesting museums and monuments in the world, Washington DC is one place in the U.S. that will definitely excite the history buff in you. It has preserved the country’s long-lost history and all the places to visit in Washington DC reflect that well.
If you have ever been fascinated by the historic stories of war, power, and glory, then this is one city you ought to explore during your trip to the USA. Here are some of the best places in the city that will not only offer you an insight into the city’s culture but also help you absorb it well. Take a look!
17 Best Places To Visit In Washington DC
Here is a list of the best places to visit in Washington DC that will offer you a true glimpse of this historic city and its culture.
1. Lincoln Memorial
One of the major Washington DC tourist attractions, the Lincoln Memorial is dedicated to the 16th president of the U.S., Abraham Lincoln. Though it is not its architecture that is the most beautiful thing about it, rather it is its reflection that makes it look more majestic when seen in the pool. This memorial is a perfect place to visit if you wish to start your trip on a historic note!
Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: It remains open for the whole day
Location: 2 Lincoln Memorial Cir NW, Washington, DC 20037, USA
Looking To Book An International Holiday?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
10 Destinations In U.S.A For That Perfect American Honeymoon!
2. Washington Monument
Image Credit: csbwv / 8 zdjęć for Pixabay
Yet another structure that was built in the name of a powerful man, the Washington Monument is one of the top places to see in Washington DC. It was built to honor the first ever president, Washington DC whose name later also inspired the city’s name! An attraction with such interesting stories ought to be on your trip itinerary!
Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
Location: 2 15th St NW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
3. National Gallery Of Art
Image Credit: John Menard for flickr
Treat the art lover within by visiting this art gallery which is also one of the best things to see in Washington DC. The gallery showcases different types of art created by different artists that cover everything from the middle ages to the modern-day.
Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 6th & Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20565, United States
8 Best Restaurants In Miami To Treat The Gastronome In You
4. National Museum Of American History
One of the best historical places to visit in Washington DC, the National Museum of American History will excite the history buff in you. A visit to this museum will let you experience the creation of the nation and how it became a powerful empire now!
Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Location: 1300 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
5. National Air And Space Museum
If you’re someone who loves planes and rockets, then this is the right place for you to visit. This museum provides an insight into the history of planes and air crafts and also the process of building them. Visiting this place will surely make you feel proud of how far human imagination has reached!
Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 600 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20560, USA
15 Best Things To Do In Boston That You Just Can’t Miss!
6. Smithsonian Zoological Park
In Washington DC, a sightseeing tour of this amazing spot will take you closer to nature. This national zoological park has around 400 species which include pandas, lions, elephants, and more. Spotting these creatures and being around them will definitely pamper the wildlife enthusiast in you. Visiting here is indeed one of the best things to do in Washington DC.
Entry fees: No entry fee
Timings: 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008, USA
Planning your holiday but confused about where to go? These travel stories help you find your best trip ever!
Real travel stories. Real stays. Handy tips to help you make the right choice.
7. National Cathedral
Witness the glorious architecture and the rich culture of the American city by visiting the famous National Cathedral. One of the top places to visit in the city, this church offers a peaceful and heavenly environment. So, even if you’re not too religious, make sure you stop by this place to soak in a little bliss.
Entry Fee:
- Adults: INR 824
- Teens: INR 549
- Children: Free
Timings:
- Monday – Friday: 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 3101 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016, USA
India To US @ Just INR 13,500? It’s Raining Cheap Flights!
8. International Spy Museum
Image Credit: Tony Fischer for flickr
What to see in Washington DC would never be your concern if a visit to this unique museum is on your list. Known as the International Spy Museum, this place houses the world’s largest international espionage artefact collection. Needless to say, this place will surely bring out the spy within you too. So, if you want to explore top 10 places to visit in Washington DC, International Spy Museum should definitely be on your list.
Entry Fee:
- Senior: INR 1200
- Adults: INR 1500
- Youth: INR 1026
- Children (below 6 years): Free
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Location: 800 F St NW, Washington, DC 20004, USA
9. National World War Memorial
This place was built to honour the people who sacrificed their lives during World War II. Apart from the rich history, it also has a splendid fountain at the centre and several symbols of victory which add to its beauty. So, if you’ve ever been intrigued by the world war stories, this is one place you cannot afford to skip.
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: 1750 Independence Ave SW, Washington, DC 20024, USA
15 Best Treehouses In The World That Make The Dreamiest Stay Ever
10. White House
In Washington DC, places to visit are innumerable but an attraction like the White House is something you cannot afford to miss! Not just the city, but the whole nation is known because of this pure white building which is famed to be the president’s residence. And while you won’t be able to take a full tour of the house, a visit to some of its parts will still make you feel like royalty!
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Timings:
Tuesdays & Thursdays: 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Fridays & Saturdays: 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Location: 1600 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20500
11. Tidal Basin
One of the best places to visit in Washington DC in summer, Tidal Basin offers spectacular views and is home to some of the famous historic monuments. The renowned National Cherry Blossom Festival is also celebrated here. Also offering boating, it is undoubtedly the best for recreation and peace.
Entry Fees: No entry fee
Timings: Open 24 hours
Location: Tidal Basin and Ohio Drive NW, Washington DC, DC 20003
11 Sparkling Places That Appear To Be From Another World But Are Actually On Earth
12. John F. Kennedy Center Of Performing Arts
John F. Kennedy, who was the 35th President of the U.S. always loved and promoted art. This center for performing arts was created in his name and follows the same trail of promoting creativity. It hosts many shows and attracts millions of people throughout the year. You can watch a free concert around 6 in the evening and learn a lot about art at the same time.
Entry fees: Depends On The Event
Timings:
- Monday-Friday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Location: 2700 F St NW, Washington, DC 20566, USA
13. National Museum Of Women In The Arts
Housing a collection of achievements of the women in the field of arts, this museum is the only place dedicated to women’s contribution to the art. It features works created by women dating from the 16th century and offers an experience like none other!
Entry Fee: INR 686 for adults, INR 550 for students and tourists above the age of 65, and free entry for kids
Timings: 10 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Monday to Saturday) and 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. (Sunday)
Location: 1250 New York Ave NW, Washington, DC 20005, USA
12 Domes Around The World That Depict Ancient Architecture At Their Best
14. Mount Vernon Estate
Image Credit: Skeeze / 12140 for pixabay
Situated on a hill, Mount Vernon is a huge mansion, which was earlier owned by George Washington. Offering beautiful mountain views, this 14-room mansion is now restored and furnished with objects that are as old as of the 18th century. If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Washington DC in one day, then this is where you need to go!
Entry Fee: INR 1,236 for adults, INR 755 for the youth, and free entry for the kids below the age of 5 years
Timings: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Location: 3200 Mount Vernon Memorial Highway Mount Vernon, VA 22121
15. Potomac River
If you visit Washington DC, then make sure you also head to the nearby gorgeous Potomac River, which is a gateway to various popular attractions of the city. Apart from offering splendid views of nature, the river also offers the activities like kayaking and bicycling. It is undoubtedly the best places to visit in Washington DC in winter to have ultimate fun in the city which looks heavenly in winters.
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: NA
Location: Washington D.C., USA
16. Georgetown Historic District
From upscale homes and shops to high-end restaurants and scenic views, there’s a lot you can explore in the beguiling Georgetown Historic District. Tracing all the way back to the mid-1700s and named to respect King George II, Georgetown is one of the most bustling neighbourhoods where you can learn about Washington’s history and culture.
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: NA
Location: Washington D.C., USA
17. National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is a historical institution situated in Washington, D.C. preserving the accounts of America through the people who laid out American culture through the visual expressions, performing expressions and new media. The Portrait Gallery depicts writers and presidents, visionaries, entertainers and activists.
Entry Fee: No entry fee
Timings: NA
Location: Washington D.C., USA
Further Read: Washington DC In Winter: A Guide To Help You Redefine Your Winter Vacation
Now that you know about all the mind-boggling attractions that this city has, we are sure that you wouldn’t need a Washington DC travel guide at all. So, don’t think much and plan your US trip with TravelTriangle right away for an enriching holiday experience!
For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer please click here.
Frequently Asked Questions About Places To Visit In Washington DC
What is Washington DC famous for?
Washington DC is one of the most visited places in the US. Apart from being the home of the president of America, Washington Dc is known for its culture, museums, historic sites and a number of embassies.
What is the most visited site in Washington DC?
The Air & Space Museum, the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of American History are the most visited places in the entire Washington DC.
What is there to do in Washington DC?
Here are a few things do in Washington DC on your vacation:
1. Tour the United States Capitol
2. Admire the spectacular beauty of the Lincoln Memorial
3. Get amazed by the exhibits of the National Air & Space Museum
4. Stroll along the beautiful attraction of National Mall
5. Pay a visit to the stunning Washington National Cathedral
Is there any entry fee for National Gallery Of Art?
No, the entry to National Gallery Of Art is free of cost.
Where should I stay when visiting Washington DC?
Some of the best areas to stay on your visit to Washington DC are:
1. Woodley Park- Best for sightseeing
2. Chinatown- Best for nightlife
3. Foggy Bottom- Best for shopping
4. Lenfant- Best for family stay
What is the best time of year to visit Washington DC?
September to November and March to May is the best time of the year to visit Washington DC. It’s the time when you can see changing leaves and feel the crisp breezes that paint the city in several shades of orange and yellow.
What is the best way to get around in Washington DC?
The best and the most economic way to get around in Washington DC is by a metro/ subway which connects all the important places of the city pretty well.
Looking To Book A Holiday Package?
Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic and international destinations.
People Also Read
Places To Visit In California Places To Visit In Interlaken Places To Visit In Kaza
“You only get one life. It’s actually your duty to live it as fully as possible.” – Jojo Moyes
Living with this motto in mind. A little too sensitive about anything and everything, this person is writing about traveling, something that she loves and has been doing since her childhood. To her, traveling does not only mean exploring new places but new people and how different life is everywhere else. It makes her think and think, thus making her a writer. If ever, you will find her thinking hard, laughing every other second and trying passionately to bring a change in the world.
