Explore the top 25 attractions in Washington D.C., from the iconic United States Capitol and the historic White House to the cultural treasures of the Smithsonian Institution and the National Gallery of Art. Learn about America's history at the National Archives Museum and immerse yourself in the vibrant world of performing arts at the John F. Kennedy Center.
Washington D.C., the capital of the United States, is a city rich in history, culture, and national pride. Home to some of the country's most iconic landmarks and world-class museums, there is no shortage of attractions to explore in this vibrant city. From the majestic United States Capitol and the historic White House, to the cultural treasures of the Smithsonian Institution and the moving memorials that dot the National Mall, here are the top 25 must-see attractions in Washington D.C.
United States Capitol and Capitol Hill: The United States Capitol is an iconic symbol of the American people and their government, and it is where Congress meets to write and pass laws. Capitol Hill is the area surrounding the Capitol and is home to numerous government buildings and offices.
The White House: This neoclassical mansion has been the official residence and workplace of every U.S. President since John Adams. Tours are available, but must be requested through a Member of Congress.
The Lincoln Memorial: Located at the west end of the National Mall, this Greek Doric temple contains a large seated sculpture of Abraham Lincoln and inscriptions of two well-known speeches by Lincoln.
The Washington Monument: This iconic obelisk is one of the most recognizable structures in the United States and honors the country's first president, George Washington. Visitors can take an elevator to the top for panoramic views of the city.
National Air and Space Museum: This museum holds the largest collection of historic aircraft and spacecraft in the world, and it is also a vital center for research into the history, science, and technology of aviation and spaceflight.
National Gallery of Art: This museum is home to an extensive collection of European and American art, including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Vincent van Gogh, and Claude Monet, among others.
National Museum of American History: This museum tells the story of American history through its vast collection of artifacts, including the original Star-Spangled Banner, the First Ladies Inaugural Gowns, and more.
National Museum of Natural History: This museum is home to over 126 million specimens of plants, animals, fossils, rocks, and more, and it aims to inspire curiosity and educate about the natural world.
The Smithsonian Institution: This is the world’s largest museum and research complex, with 19 museums, 21 libraries, nine research centers, and a zoo, all dedicated to the increase and diffusion of knowledge.
National Zoological Park: Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Zoo is home to more than 2,700 animals from 390 different species, including giant pandas, lions, elephants, and more.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial: This national memorial honors the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and is in the form of a black granite wall inscribed with the names of over 58,000 servicemen and women who died in or were missing in action during the war.
World War II Memorial: This memorial honors the 16 million people who served in the American armed forces during World War II, and it features 56 granite pillars representing the states and territories, and a pair of arches surrounding a plaza and fountain.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial: This memorial honors Thomas Jefferson, the author of the Declaration of Independence, and is in the form of a Pantheon-like building with a statue of Jefferson inside.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum: This museum is dedicated to documenting, studying, and interpreting the history of the Holocaust and serves as a memorial to the millions of people who were murdered during the Holocaust.
Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial: This memorial honors the civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr. and features a 30-foot statue of King, along with inscriptions of quotes from his speeches, sermons, and writings.
National Archives Museum: This museum is home to the original copies of the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, and it serves as a research center for American history.
Ford's Theatre and Petersen House: Ford's Theatre is where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth in 1865, and Petersen House is where Lincoln died the following day. Both are now museums dedicated to Lincoln's legacy.
John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts: This facility hosts a variety of performances, including ballet, theater, and music, and it is also home to the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera.
Library of Congress: The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world, with millions of books, recordings, photographs, maps, and manuscripts in its collections. It also serves as the research arm of Congress.
United States Supreme Court Building: This is the seat of the Supreme Court, the highest federal court in the United States, and it is where important legal decisions are made that can affect the country.
International Spy Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history and contemporary role of espionage and features exhibits on spy gear, famous spies, and more.
National Portrait Gallery: This museum is home to a collection of portraits of prominent Americans who have made significant contributions to the nation's history and culture.
National Museum of African American History and Culture: This museum tells the story of African American life, history, and culture, and it features a range of exhibits on topics such as slavery, civil rights, and African American achievements in arts and culture.
United States Botanic Garden: This living plant museum features a range of gardens, including a Rose Garden, Butterfly Garden, and Medicinal Plant Garden, as well as a large conservatory with different biomes, including a jungle and a desert.
National Museum of the American Indian: This museum is dedicated to the life, languages, literature, history, and arts of the Native Americans of the Western Hemisphere, and it features exhibits on Native American cultures, history, and more.
