74 Fun Things to Do in Washington DC

The city of the White House and the Capitol has countless monuments and historic buildings that have witnessed and played a leading role in great moments in American history. Added to the list is a large repertoire of important museums covering a wide variety of topics.

Washington DC also offers a wide range of leisure activities. It has numerous parks and neighbourhoods with lots of character, where you can enjoy exploring the streets and sampling the local cuisine. There are also interesting places to visit in the surrounding area. I'll tell you all about it below.

The White House, the Obelisk, the Capitol... You've just arrived and these are just some of the iconic places to start discovering Washington DC. This city steeped in history is full of attractions to visit. Its neoclassical architecture will surprise you, present in monuments and museums.

Want to have time to see everything at your leisure? Without a doubt, the best way to cover this large city is on a guided bus tour where you can hop on and off as often as you like. You'll visit all the landmarks and get a good understanding of the metropolis.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the best tourist buses in Washington DC

The National Archives are housed in an imposing neoclassical building. Today they are open to the public and proudly display the Declaration of Independence, the United States Constitution and the Bill of Rights. A very interesting visit to learn more about the history of the United States.

Don't leave Washington DC without taking a look at the most important documents in the country's history. To get the most out of this visit, I recommend this comprehensive guided tour, which not only provides detailed information about the site, but also includes stops at other iconic locations.

Sunset in Washington DC is very popular. A recommended spot to watch it is from the Obelisk, as there is a large pond in front of it and you can take a beautiful photo with the orange sky reflected in it.

Once night falls, it's not time to go home, quite the contrary. The city's lighting is an attraction in itself and well worth seeing. Want to take photos of the most iconic buildings lit up? Take a bus tour that will take you to the most beautiful spots and tell you everything you need to know.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the best night tours in Washington DC

George Washington was the first president of the United States in 1789. At the age of 20, he inherited the Mount Vernon estate, which was then a plantation. Today it is a historic site that you can visit. The property, with its mansion and gardens, is a delight to walk around, and it is also very interesting to see the exhibition of objects it houses.

Located 25 km from the city, it is in a peaceful setting surrounded by nature. If you want to combine a day surrounded by greenery and history, this is a perfect opportunity. To get the most out of it, check out this guided tour.

Arlington National Cemetery is across the Potomac River in Virginia. Its peculiarity is that it is a military cemetery where veterans from all wars, starting with the Civil War, are buried. Among its rows of graves, you can see a much-visited one with an eternal flame, that of John F. Kennedy.

This cemetery, impressive for its size and long rows of white headstones, is best visited and appreciated with a guided tour, as you will learn the most important historical facts and curiosities about the famous people buried there.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the War Memorials and Arlington Cemetery in Washington DC

The Potomac River separates Washington DC from Virginia. It is crossed by the Long Bridge, which is a group of three bridges connecting the two states. It is very fast-flowing, so boats sail on it every day. Its waters are very calm and it offers beautiful views of the city.

If you are interested in taking a boat tour, choose the sunset time and you are guaranteed to take some incredible photos. To complete the plan, I also suggest having a gourmet dinner on a cruise. A great plan to enjoy with your partner or family.

If you want to know more, check out this article on Cruises in Washington DC

Washington is a fairly flat place, so it's not unusual to see locals and tourists getting around by bike. One place I recommend for cycling is the National Mall, a green area with several monuments to famous people and a good number of museums. If you go in spring, don't miss the Basin, where you'll see cherry blossoms in bloom. Fancy renting a bike? You'll have a great day visiting the city at your own pace.

Georgetown is a well-known neighbourhood in Washington DC for its character. You'll be struck by its old architecture and many mansions, Georgetown University, its shops... It's a very picturesque and lively neighbourhood, as there are many university students and it's easy to find live music in its streets. It is also located on the banks of the river and even has a small harbour. It has everything!

This neighbourhood is known for its many local restaurants. Would you like to try American food in Georgetown's restaurants? I suggest a tour that selects the best stops for this. You will taste the local flavours and learn about the history of the city.

If you want to know more, check out this article on food tours in Washington DC

Washington DC is a place full of historical sites and monuments. Through them, you can learn about the history of the capital and its evolution. You will recognise many places as they have been used as film locations, starting with the White House itself and the Lincoln Memorial.

If you don't know where to start, that's normal, there is so much to see and it's all so interesting! My advice is to book a bus tour for a day to see the essentials. This way, you won't get tired going from one place to another and you will get a good overview of the city.

Located in the historic Capitol Hill neighbourhood, on a hill that makes it visible from every corner of the city, the Capitol is the symbol of American democracy and a must-see on your list of things to see in Washington DC.

This iconic white building with a large dome topped by an obelisk houses the two chambers of the United States Congress, with the south wing belonging to the House of Representatives and the north wing to the Senate. Some of the most important decisions that guide the country's politics and even have an impact on other parts of the world are made here.

To get the most out of your visit, I recommend that you take a tour with an expert guide who will tell you all the interesting facts and trivia about this place.

If you want to know more, check out this article on everything you need to know about visiting the Capitol in Washington DC

What makes U Street one of the most famous streets in Washington DC? Mainly its colours and street art, entertainment and cuisine. Not only is it a place to have a good time, it is also full of historical sites that refer to African-American history, as this street was once known as Black Broadway.

If you go, be sure to try the half-smoke at Ben's Chili Bowl, one of the most iconic restaurants. Want to try other local delicacies and learn all the secrets of this street? I suggest a guided tour, where you'll see the best street murals, learn history, and try recommended dishes and drinks. A very complete plan!

In the United States, everything is big. For example, the Smithsonian Institution is the largest museum complex in the world. It comprises 16 museums and a zoo. They are located along the National Mall, the large park that stretches from the Capitol to the Washington Monument.

In short, there are large areas to explore! An alternative and more sustainable way to do this is by taking a tour in an electric car. You will see famous monuments and historical sites on a fun guided tour.

Near the Pentagon, across the Potomac River, is Arlington National Cemetery, the burial place of veterans of all the wars in which the United States has participated since its independence, as well as other important figures of the nation such as President John F. Kennedy.

Arlington Cemetery became a National Park in 2004, and other places you can visit there include the memorials to the Challenger and Columbia space shuttles, a memorial honouring those who died on the Pan Am flight to Lockerbie, and another for the victims of 9/11.

Given its enormous size, I recommend taking a tour of Arlington National Cemetery to get to know it in depth.

Did you expect to see a field of cherry blossoms in the heart of Washington DC? Well, there is one, and it's authentic Japanese. It turns out that in 1912, the mayor of Tokyo gave 3,000 Japanese cherry trees to the city. Since then, a cherry blossom festival has been held every year between March and April. It is an event eagerly awaited by the city's residents and is full of activities and performances.

The area where it is located is Tidal Basin, and it is quite extensive. If you want to see it in depth and also enjoy nearby historical sites such as the Eisenhower and Einstein Memorials, I recommend doing so with a guided bike tour. You will be able to get around quickly and enjoy the white and pink landscape.

Through the galleries of this museum, you can learn about African American history from the 15th century to the present day. It is a very comprehensive tour that includes art, religion and history and leaves no visitor indifferent.

It was in Washington DC that Martin Luther King told his listeners the famous phrase "I have a dream". There are many moments and places that witnessed the African American struggle for civil rights, which you can learn about on a specialised tour that will take you to these places, in addition to the museum. Don't miss it!

If you want to know more, check out this article on everything you need to know about the African American History Museum in Washington DC

The city is very beautiful at night with its illuminated buildings and monuments. But like anywhere else, it also has a dark side, with real stories and chilling legends set in places such as the Capitol and the White House.

Do you like scary stories? With nightfall as the backdrop, you can take a ghost tour, if you dare. You'll learn about the city's history in a different and entertaining way.

You may have heard that beer in the United States is not its best attribute. Well, this has been changing a lot in recent years with the rise of craft beers. In Washington DC, new breweries are popping up, experimenting with processes and flavours, and they are already well known and highly regarded.

Would you like to try these beers? I suggest you visit the best places to enjoy a tasting accompanied by food. Eat, drink and continue your visit to the city for the rest of the day. What a great plan!

In Washington DC, there are around 70 historic buildings and a similar number of monuments, each with its own appeal. This means lots of photos to take, lots of information to learn and many kilometres to cover.

The National Mall alone is 3 kilometres long and there is a lot to see there. To get around quickly and visit the most recommended places in the city, why not do it on a Segway? It's fun, fast, quiet and non-polluting. I highly recommend it!

This museum is particularly highly regarded as it is the second most visited of the Smithsonian Institution, which is a group of 16 museums in Washington DC. You can see everything from mummies to enormous animals.

Its dinosaur and naturalised mammal rooms are famous, as is its extensive collection of gems. You're sure to enjoy this visit.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the Smithsonian Museum in Washington DC: tickets, guided tours and more

The mighty Potomac River is traversed daily by hundreds of boats of all sizes. You can take a water taxi to different parts of the city, or you can sail for pleasure and admire the views from the river. When the cherry trees are in bloom, you can see them from the river too, with the skyline in the background. What a sight!

Here's a plan to help you make the most of your day. Book a buffet brunch on a luxury cruise. It's an ideal way to spend the morning while you eat and enjoy the city from a different angle.

Perhaps, when planning your trip to the US capital, you didn't initially think of taking a trip outside the city because there is so much to see in Washington DC, but it's really worth it and I recommend setting aside a day of your holiday for this activity because you'll be able to visit other interesting places nearby and add new experiences to your travel log. Every traveller's leitmotif!

During your stay in Washington DC, I suggest you take a trip to Mount Vernon, the former home of George Washington and his wife Martha. This experience provides a very interesting context for understanding the American character and getting closer to the historical heart of a nation with only a few centuries of history, learning more about its origins and how it was founded.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the Mount Vernon Excursion from Washington

One of the best-known neighbourhoods in Washington DC is Dupont Circle. It spreads out in a circle from the square that gives it its name and is home to a multitude of embassies and historic buildings. In addition to its modern side, you can also see its traditional side, such as the Dupont Farmers' Market on Sundays and the mansions from the golden age.

The area is highly valued and is home to numerous restaurants, art galleries and boutiques. This contrast attracts many people and makes it a very cosmopolitan neighbourhood. Don't miss it! To visit the best spots, why not take a guided tour? You'll see interesting places and learn about the scandals behind some of the mansions... That's all I can say!

The assassination that ended Abraham Lincoln's life took place in 1865 at the entrance to Ford's Theatre. This event had an impact on the history of the country and shocked American society, as he was a much-loved president.

While you're at the scene of the crime, you can take a guided tour specialising in this topic and learn how this event changed the course of history, the plot and details of the assassination, and the pursuit of his killer, John Wilkes Booth.

Evenings and nights in Washington DC are enlivened by many leisure activities. In the United States, they are very keen to connect with the public, which is why live shows are so popular. Would you like to feel like a local and go to a magic and comedy show? I recommend The Magic Duel, a duo with very positive reviews and an impressive stage show. Book your tickets and enjoy a great night out.

Washington DC is the capital of the United States and, not surprisingly, one of the world's metropolises with the greatest sources of scientific and humanistic knowledge. That's why another essential thing to do here is to visit one of the city's many museums.

The National Gallery of Art is one of the most popular, where you can see works by Picasso, Rembrandt, Kandinsky, Renoir and many more. Enjoy a tour of the museum with a guided tour that will take you through the most important works accompanied by their history.

There is an area in Washington DC with a lot of personality. This is where jazz great Duke Ellington was born. It is U Street, a street and its surroundings where the influence of African-American culture and music can be seen. Are you a vinyl collector? Here you will find the best shops.

In this area you will see many murals on the walls, music bars and restaurants serving delicious food. Be sure to visit Ben's Chili Bowl, a long-standing establishment known worldwide for its half smoke, a unique hot dog. If you want to discover the most interesting places in this area and learn about its history, take a guided tour. You'll love it!

By now, you'll realise that there are many interesting areas to see. The National Mall alone, a 3-kilometre-long rectangular park, takes you from the Washington Monument to the Capitol. This is where you can take a beautiful photo of the Obelisk reflected in the pond.

Within the National Mall, there are several memorials to famous people, and on either side are the national museums and the zoo. Just so you know, you'll need a map to get around the National Mall. To take in such a concentration of history and art, I recommend a guided bike tour. It's a really fun way to see the city and you'll learn all about it.

If you like to get your legs moving, check out this article on the best bike tours in Washington DC.

As the seat of the White House, dozens of presidents have passed through it and this city. Their stay in the capital is not limited to their terms of office; these presidents have or had their second homes in the best neighbourhoods of Washington DC. In fact, one of them, Grover Cleveland, never lived in the White House.

If you are interested in the history of politics in the United States, don't miss this expert-led tour of the presidents' mansions, where you will learn the most interesting anecdotes in the style of the television series The West Wing.

No, we haven't gone to Egypt, we're still on the American continent. Alexandria is located about 10 kilometres from Washington DC and is known for being one of the oldest cities in the United States. Its historic centre is very quiet and colourful with well-preserved architecture. It is also next to the Potomac River, so it has a beautiful riverside walkway.

King Street Mile is well known for its colourful facades and local shops. It is a highly recommended getaway to continue learning about the American character. Walking through its streets is like travelling back in time. To make the most of your visit, I recommend this tour, which will take you there and show you the most beautiful places and their history.

There are many entertaining activities to do in the US capital. If you are a restless person, like to play games or are simply looking for an indoor activity for a rainy day, I recommend trying an Escape Room. Here you can choose an adventure to suit your taste and put your ingenuity to the test. An immersive and interactive experience, ideal for enjoying with friends or family.

During the Cold War, men were in political control, but in reality, women held very important positions that are not widely recognised. It was during this period that the feminist movement began to take shape, with its struggles and achievements in a difficult global era.

The streets of Georgetown are home to several of the most influential women of the era. If you want to learn about this parallel history that is not told in books, this guided tour is a great opportunity to take a very entertaining history lesson.

The name of this museum is sure to catch your attention. This curious six-storey museum displays not only texts and objects but also immersive experiences and interactive galleries that offer a different perspective on the impact of the Bible on the world. Of course, this museum has sparked some controversial opinions. In any case, it is a very entertaining visit and an unusual museum.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the best museums in Washington DC

Not only can you enjoy cultural visits here, but another of the most exciting things to do in Washington DC is to attend a basketball game.

Whether you love the sport or want to enjoy the excitement and atmosphere that this sport creates on the court, you can't miss this experience. What's more, these are very family-friendly events, so if you're travelling with children, you can go together to see a Washington Wizards game. They'll love it!

Loudoun County is a beautiful green area an hour from Washington DC known for its vineyards and therefore its wineries. The annual grape harvest in Loudon is valued at over $2 million. It's not just about quantity but also quality, which has won awards at the Governor's Cup Wine Competition.

A visit not to be missed if you are a wine lover. The setting will remind you of the French countryside, but on a larger scale. If you want to visit this vast expanse of vineyards, discover the best wineries and taste their wines, don't miss this private tour.

You're probably familiar with Hard Rock Café from other major world capitals. The world's most famous themed restaurant is also in Washington DC, located right next to Ford's Theatre, where Lincoln was assassinated.

If you're walking around this central area and you get hungry, take advantage and order a Twisted Mac, Chicken, & Cheese. Although if you want to be sure of a seat, make a reservation and get a special price menu.

Located on the banks of the Potomac River, it is one of the oldest areas of the city, which was formerly separated from downtown Washington. Walking through its cobbled streets lined with mansions and houses from another era is like taking a trip to a small village with an atmosphere very different from that of the more monumental part of Washington.

A visit for a stroll or some shopping is a must, but there is also an alternative way to see it: you can learn about its mysteries, legends and ghosts on a scary tour. Discover the hidden stories behind some of its mansions and alleyways.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the Best Tours of Georgetown, Washington DC

During the Civil War, the famous Pennsylvania Avenue, now flanked by historic government buildings, changed dramatically. At that time, bars and brothels sprang up quickly and the area became a red-light district. The women who ran these businesses played an important role in society and in some political affairs at that time. If you want to know more, I recommend a specialised tour of this area with an expert guide who will tell you interesting anecdotes and stories from this period.

Did you know that around 200,000 people from Ethiopia live in Washington DC? It is the largest community outside Ethiopia. A good representation of this can be seen on U Street, where you can appreciate its influence on street art, shops and restaurants.

It is no coincidence that many of the highest-rated restaurants in this colourful area are Ethiopian. It is an important part of the city's gastronomic scene. Are you feeling hungry and curious? I suggest a tour where you will explore the area and visit the highest-rated restaurants.

Pennsylvania Avenue runs from the White House to the Capitol. Can you imagine everything that has happened on this street over the years since its first president, George Washington? When we talk about politics, there are always other parallel issues: corruption, scandals, lies... Sound familiar? Well, yes, no country is immune, and Washington has some of the juiciest ones.

If you want to find out about the secret and not-so-secret scandals involving Obama, Trump, Nixon, Kennedy, Reagan, Clinton and more, I recommend you don't miss this guided tour. It's super interesting!

Baseball is one of the most popular sports in the United States. The Washington Nationals are a much-loved team, and attending one of their games is an event in itself. The atmosphere is great fun and exciting. Don't know the rules of baseball? Don't worry, they're very simple. Don't miss the opportunity to attend a game; you'll remember it forever.

You've decided on your trip to this fantastic city and bought your flights. My first recommendation is to book your transfers between the airport and Washington DC. With everything you've seen there is to visit, I don't think you'll want to waste a single minute of your trip. If you don't want to complicate things by checking all the options, you can always choose this private transport, where you'll start to learn about the capital from your driver.

Madame Tussauds is a famous museum with locations in major capitals around the world, exhibiting wax replicas of celebrities and recreations of scenes. What can you see at Madame Tussauds in Washington DC? Its exhibition is different as it focuses more on history, which is to be expected in this city. So if you want to meet the famous, learn and stroll through the most famous historical sites, don't miss it.

In the United States, you can find spectacular natural landscapes, especially due to their large size. Very close to Washington DC, in Virginia, its neighbouring state, you can visit Luray Caverns.

It is an amazing place where you can walk along underground paths and admire the beauty of the stalactites and stalagmites reflected in the clear waters. The lighting further enhances its natural beauty. If you feel like getting out of the city for a day and exploring, why not take this trip?

This very popular museum authentically displays espionage practices and exhibits the methods used in the Cold War and the American Civil War, as well as in acts of terrorism. The International Spy Museum is located in the central neighbourhood of Penn Quarter. It offers a unique opportunity to learn about the evolution of espionage over the years through objects and projections. If you go with children or teenagers, they are sure to enjoy it.

Can you imagine Darth Vader and a raccoon at the top of a cathedral, tirelessly watching over the passers-by below? It sounds a bit unusual, but although it may seem so, it is not a hoax. It's real!

If you visit Washington Cathedral, you'll find them adorning the top of the north-west tower, but be warned that you'll need a good pair of binoculars to see them clearly. These two peculiar characters were carved on the exterior of Washington National Cathedral as a result of a children's competition organised by National Geographic World magazine.

However, another reason to visit this neo-Gothic temple in Washington is that it is the sixth largest cathedral in the world and the second largest in the United States. From its towers, you will get a panoramic view of the city from a height of over 100 metres, one of the best views of Washington DC.

This monument, southwest of the Lincoln Memorial pond, consists of a series of 19 large statues representing the members of the army who fought in the war. The scene created by these sculptures is moving. Next to it is a wall with photos of the soldiers who participated and to whom this monumental ensemble pays tribute. Be sure to visit the Korean War Veterans Memorial when you take your stroll through the National Mall.

The Ford's Theatre building was constructed in 1833, originally as a church. It was later converted into a theatre and has since suffered several disasters. In 1862, it was destroyed by fire, shortly afterwards, in 1865, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated inside, and later, in 1893, part of the building collapsed, claiming several lives.

It has now been renovated, preserving its historic character. It hosts educational events and exhibitions about the night of the assassination that killed Lincoln. You should definitely visit this place steeped in history. Check the calendar of events on its website.

As you can see from this list, there is no shortage of green spaces in Washington. I would like to recommend one in particular: the botanical garden. It is very convenient, located just southwest of the Capitol.

There you can see the beautiful Bartholdi Fountain and an outdoor collection of a wide variety of exotic plants. You can visit for free any day between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. This urban paradise will recharge your batteries for the rest of the day.

This is one of the most emblematic and representative buildings of power in the United States to see in Washington DC, along with the Capitol. The White House has been the official residence of the president since 1789, when George Washington decided to locate the country's capital here and chose a rural site on the banks of the Potomac River to build an English-style presidential house.

The best place to see it from the outside and take some photos in front of the fence is on the north side, from Pennsylvania Avenue. It's the most typical image you've seen so many times in the movies!

However, if you want to visit the inside, a little planning is required as you need to apply through the US embassy in your country of origin, which can take between 6 months and 21 days to be approved.

If you don't have time to apply for authorisation, you can always visit the Visitors Centre at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue, next to the White House. Here you will find several exhibitions about the famous mansion and its illustrious residents that may interest you if you like history. They are open to the public every day of the week until 4 pm.

The portrait museum is part of the Smithsonian Institution, a renowned network of museums that is also responsible for education and research. It is next to Ford's Theatre, right in the centre. The National Portrait Gallery collects portraits and photographs from all periods and in various techniques of the faces of artists, politicians, scientists... A different way of learning about history from ancient times to the present day.

The city's zoo is located in the northern part of the city. Why not go for a stroll? It is one of the highest-rated zoos. Enjoy the special events organised throughout the year, educational activities and, of course, admire the more than 1,500 animals that live there. Admission is free, but you must book in advance. Find out about the activities on their website and spend an entertaining afternoon.

This museum, just a few minutes from the Capitol, will surprise you even from a distance thanks to its spectacular modern façade with curved edges. Inside the National Museum of the American Indian, you can see an exhibition that reflects the origins and evolution of the many indigenous peoples of America. Don't leave without taking a look; admission is free. You're sure to be surprised. Oh, and I recommend the buffet restaurant inside.

This gallery, located next to the White House, is one of the most important contemporary art exhibitions. The interior of the Renwick Gallery is very sophisticated and elegant, contrasting nicely with its exhibition of modern art objects and paintings.

Both its permanent and temporary collections are usually full of colour and surprise visitors. It is not a very large museum, so it is perfect to include in your walk around the White House. You are sure to take some great photos.

This centre is in a picturesque location, right on the banks of the Potomac River. Depending on where you look at it from, it seems to float on the river. It was built in honour of John F. Kennedy and is very multidisciplinary, as inside you can find several theatres, an opera house, a concert hall and other spaces dedicated to the arts. There is even a jazz club.

Check out the John F. Kennedy Centre for the Performing Arts programme to find a show to attend or simply visit its grand interior.

Are you a fan of the famous nature, history and science magazine? You're in luck, because right in the city centre you can visit the National Geographic Museum. It displays the magazine's best photos as well as historical exhibits. Visit their website to find out about temporary exhibitions. Come in and travel through world history.

This market has been operating since 1873. If you happen to be there on a Sunday, come and browse the antiques and crafts, discover local products and grab a bite to eat at one of the many stalls. In the surrounding area, you will find other markets, creating a traditional and festive atmosphere. You will feel like a local. Check out their website for more information.

This decorative arts museum is located in a mansion in the northern part of the city, where Rock Creek, an impressive park, begins. This is Hillwood Estate. It is known for its collection of French and Russian works, including some of the famous Fabergé eggs.

The exhibition is not limited to the works on display but also includes the luxurious rooms of the mansion and its gardens. There is a large collection of orchids and exotic plants. Being a little further away from the centre, it is a haven of peace where you can quietly enjoy a garden-museum that transports you to another era.

If you like live music and nightlife, I definitely recommend going to the 9:30 Club. Open since the 1980s, it is one of the most famous live music venues in America. Big names such as the Red Hot Chilli Peppers, Bob Dylan and Adele have played there. The venue has great sound. A word of advice: if you arrive early, you can sit in the upper area, which has better views. Check out their website for the concert schedule and have a great night out.

There are many reasons to visit this park. This oasis in the city has many trails for hiking, a golf course, an amphitheatre and more recreational activities. Rock Creek Park was founded in 1890 with this idea in mind, as a place of respite and entertainment for citizens.

Why not explore it on foot or by bike and have a picnic? You can even see the stars in broad daylight, as one of its facilities is a planetarium. Here's another thing: there's a hidden Civil War fort called Fort DeRussy. To find it, you'll have to ask around, but be warned, not many people know about it.

This gallery, also known as the Asian Museum, is located on the National Mall. It houses ancient objects from various parts of Asia, such as ceramics, manuscripts, screens, sculptures and paintings. If you go, you'll be amazed by the peacock room, a room decorated entirely in gold and blue, considered a masterpiece.

Its exterior is characterised by a beautiful Italian Renaissance-style façade with large arches. Inside, you can enter a hidden underground gallery. Admission is free and it's quick to see, so it's well worth a visit!

Thomas Jefferson is considered one of the most influential people in the formation of the United States of America. You can visit his memorial in a beautiful part of the city, on the riverbank in the Tidal Basin. If you go in spring, you will see it surrounded by cherry blossoms. The monument itself is worth a photo thanks to its many columns and dome, spectacular both during the day and illuminated at night.

This market with food stalls from around the world is very popular with the citizens of Washington DC. If you are a foodie, I recommend you visit it as it is like a showcase of the most varied styles of food. Including local food, of course. The hard part will be choosing.

In addition to gastronomy, you will find art and culture in the Union Market District. When the weather is nice, there are also tables outside. It is not a place that is often visited by tourists, so take advantage of the opportunity and enjoy a meal in the best atmosphere.

In the north of the city is this beautiful rectangular park with a pretty staircase and waterfall. It's a very peaceful and beautiful place to spend some time in nature and recharge your batteries. In Meridian Hill Park, there are several sculptures that you will come across on your walk. Here's an interesting fact: one of them is Joan of Arc on horseback with a sword. However, you will only be able to see her empty hand, as the sword has been stolen and this continues to happen every time it is replaced.

Have you set out to visit all the museums of the Smithsonian Institution? There are 11 of them just on the sides of the National Mall. At least they are close to each other! One of them is the American History Museum. It is super entertaining; you can even see everything from Batman's car to the hat Lincoln wore on the day of his assassination.

If you're interested in a tour of American history, don't miss this museum. You'll be amazed by its collection of curious objects. Check their website to stay up to date on their activities.

If you love war films or are a history buff, I recommend visiting Gettysburg National Park. It was here that the Battle of Gettysburg was fought during the Civil War in 1863. The battle lasted three days and was one of the bloodiest in history.

Today, it is a national park that preserves information about this moment in history through tours, a museum and a visitor centre, as well as tributes and monuments to the fallen. A visit that will not leave you indifferent.

This exhibition is located south of the National Mall. The immersive experience offered by Artechouse will take you out of reality and into a colourful future world in a unique experience. If you go with your family, it's sure to be a plan that everyone will enjoy.

As you have already seen, this city is full of tributes. Another one I recommend you visit is the United States Navy Memorial. It is located in a square on Pennsylvania Avenue, north of the National Mall. This building is entirely dedicated to paying tribute to the navy and naval veterans through the exhibition of objects, sculptures, documents and more. Include it in your visit to expand your repertoire of tributes.

This museum shows the different phases of the Nazi Holocaust through its collection of objects, photographs and projections. It also commemorates the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. It has an extensive permanent collection and other temporary exhibitions that you can check out on its website.

The museum's educational and informative work is remarkable, making visitors feel part of the experience. Go in and see for yourself, it will not leave you indifferent.

This impressive, enormous basilica, inaugurated in 1959, is located northeast of the city centre. It is among the 10 largest in the world. That, together with its colourful dome, will leave you speechless. It is also worth visiting the equally spectacular interior, with its stained glass windows, mosaics and paintings. An essential visit.

The Hirshhorn Museum exhibits modern and contemporary art and can be visited on the National Mall. You will recognise it from the outside because it does not have the neoclassical style of its neighbouring museums; on the contrary, its circular façade stands out from the rest.
You'll love its collection of alternative art, and there's also a surprise outside. Step into the garden and you'll find an open-air exhibition of large sculptures in different styles that you'll love.

The first building of the Smithsonian Institution is also known as the castle. It is located in the centre of the National Mall and you will recognise it by its red brick. It was created as an institution for research and dissemination, and from there, all the museums that are now part of the organisation began to be created.

Go inside and learn about its history and that of its neighbouring museums at the visitor centre. It's a great way to start your tour of the most cultural area of Washington DC.

The Phillips Museum has been in existence since 1921 and was very groundbreaking in its day, as it has always exhibited works by the most modern and avant-garde artists. Its galleries also feature great classics such as Renoir, Cezanne, Picasso and many more.

It is located in the beautiful Dupont Circle neighbourhood. So take the opportunity to visit it when you are in the area. You are sure to enjoy the visit, as it is one of the most highly rated art museums in the world.

The well-known activist Martin Luther King advocated for the civil rights of the black population in the United States, and his struggle was key.

On the banks of the Tidal Basin, near where he delivered his famous speech that began with "I have a dream," there is a monument that you should not miss. It is an impressive statue almost 10 metres high. You will love it both during the day, due to its location in the park surrounded by cherry trees, and at night, with its beautiful lighting.

In a big city like Washington DC, which offers so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming. But to avoid stress, I recommend that you plan your itineraries well and make the most of your trip. As a tip, I suggest you purchase a tourist pass.

The Washington Sightseeing Pass is a great option if you want to save money, as it offers discounts of up to 60% on many attractions and saves you time by avoiding the long queues to get tickets to the monuments.

If you want to know more, check out this article on the Washington Sightseeing Pass.