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NATIONAL MALL. From the 555-foot obelisk dedicated to George Washington to the Jefferson Memorial serenely situated on the Tidal Basin's south shore, monuments and memorials have long made Washington one of the world's most attractive capitals. Today, these and the hallowed Lincoln Memorial share space with sites offering more modern perspectives of sacrifice and honor: the Vietnam Veterans, Korean War Veterans, the National World War II, and the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorials. Devote the better part of a day to exploring the area from 17th Street to West Potomac Park, but also plan to visit the monuments and memorials at night, when they are most breathtaking. METRO: Smithsonian
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NATIONAL MALL. The Smithsonian – for many, the image of the 19th-century sandstone "Castle" immediately springs to mind. The Institution itself is larger than most realize (14 museums and the National Zoo in DC alone) and granting only one day to "do the Smithsonian" is a mistake. Always-popular stops are the National Air & Space Museum and the National Museum of American History (closed until Summer 2008); however, the beautiful National Museum of the American Indian has emerged as a hot attraction, and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center near Washington-Dulles serves as a fascinating repository of nearly 80% of the Smithsonian's air and space collection. METRO: Smithsonian
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NATIONAL MALL. One of the world's most prominent and admired museums, the National Gallery delights visitors with exhibits spanning the art of the Middle Ages to the art of today. The West Building covers the 13th through 19th centuries, while the sleek East Building (designed by I.M. Pei) is devoted to modern and contemporary works. All told, there are 3000 paintings, 2000 pieces of sculpture and over 100,000 prints, drawings and papers held here, including paintings by da Vinci, Raphael, Titian and Rembrandt. After touring the galleries, be sure to allot time for the stunning Sculpture Garden situated at the corner of 7th and Madison. METRO: Judiciary Square, Archives or Smithsonian
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CAPITOL HILL. The White House notwithstanding, this domed icon of democracy is the capital city's most significant and, perhaps, most impressive building. Its majestic architecture is a signature aspect of the Washington landscape, and the view from the front steps is unparalleled. Guided tours cover the highlights of the Capitol complex's history and architecture. Tickets are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis at the Guide Service kiosk on the southwest side of the Capitol. As you might expect, the lines tend to be long, so arrive early. METRO: Capitol South
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NATIONAL MALL. Among the most-visited sites in Washington, this museum powerfully depicts one of the darkest times in modern history. Four floors of exhibits, survivors' testimonies, video displays and actual film footage document the history of the Holocaust. Visitors can spend two to three hours in the self-guided permanent exhibition, "The Holocaust." The Museum also offers a number of other exhibitions and displays, including the family-friendly "Remember the Children: Daniel's Story" and the high-tech Wexner Learning Center. Timed passes are required for "The Holocaust" and can be obtained for free at the museum on the day of your visit or by calling ahead. Recommended for ages 11 and up. METRO: Smithsonian
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WOODLEY PARK. Started in 1907 and completed in 1990, this Gothic cathedral is the sixth largest in the world. It sits on 57 acres and towers over the city. Approximately one-tenth of a mile long, the cathedral contains more than 200 stained-glass windows and has a central tower 301 feet tall. Teddy Roosevelt was an onlooker during construction, and every subsequent US President has attended services here. See spectacular views from the observation gallery, or take a tour and learn about the church's mission, history and architecture. Also plan to visit the Bishop's Gardens, greenhouse, herb cottage and gift shop. Services are offered every day of the week; call ahead to verify times.
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NATIONAL MALL. Step out of the modern world and into a lush paradise, where controlled climates allow plants to thrive as they would naturally. Since the mid-1800s, a wide variety of specimens has been acquired for conservation efforts, including medicinal plants and rare and exotic flora from the tropics. After touring the conservatory, pay a visit to Bartholdi Park, where you'll find fragrant flower beds and a historic fountain by Frédéric Auguste Bartholdi, designer of the Statue of Liberty. Contact the Botanic Garden for its calendar of special exhibits and outdoor concerts. METRO: Federal Center SW
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CAPITOL HILL. Home to one of America's most vital institutions, this impressive structure is characterized by its exceptional Neoclassical architecture. While the court term generally runs from October through June, informative exhibits, lectures and movies are presented throughout the year. Since seating is limited, those wanting to attend a court session should arrive early on the Front Plaza. When the Court is not sitting, lectures are presented in the courtroom every hour on the half-hour. N.B. Renovation of the building is expected to continue through 2008, but it will remain open. METRO: Union Station or Capitol South
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DOWNTOWN. No trip to DC would be complete without paying a visit to the stately home of every US President (except George Washington). Tours are available on a first-come, first-served basis for groups of 10 or more. To arrange a tour, contact your Member of Congress two to six months in advance; the exact tour time is then scheduled one month prior to the date requested. If you're unable to secure reservations, check out the White House Visitor Center at the corner of 15th and E Streets (in the Department of Commerce Building). Here, via an informative documentary video, you can tour the White House virtually and view exhibits focusing on the residences of former presidents. METRO: Federal Triangle, Metro Center, McPherson Square
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DOWNTOWN. Enthralled by the cloak and dagger world of international espionage? The International Spy Museum traces and uncovers the history of the world's second oldest (and most secretive) profession via a fascinating array of displays and interactive exhibits. The School for Spies exposes visitors to spy gadgets of all shapes and sizes, from lipstick pistols to buttonhole cameras, while the Secret History of History chronicles as far back as the times of Moses. Other galleries focus on Cold War and – just when you thought it was safe to speak out loud again – 21st-century espionage. Are "they" listening? After this museum, you'll never stop wondering. Hours may vary. METRO: Gallery
You want quality leisure activities. To that end, we've researched a diverse list of options, ruled out the wastes of time, and delivered only the 10Best. We provide quality information about historical sites, theme parks, sporting events, and city parks that you won't want to miss. Peruse our lists, see what grabs your fancy, and then head out for some personal time!
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