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Washington
United States
Visit Washington
Washington, D.C., the capital of the United States, offers an enriching and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Known for its significant historical landmarks and vibrant cultural scene, the city is a hub of American politics and history. From the iconic U.S. Capitol and the White House to the numerous monuments along the National Mall, Washington, D.C. provides a backdrop for exploration and discovery that is unparalleled. The Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial are just a few of the must-see attractions that pay homage to the nation's history and its leaders.
Beyond the famous monuments and buildings, Washington, D.C. is home to some of the best museums in the country, most of which are part of the Smithsonian Institution and offer free admission. The Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum captivates those interested in the skies and beyond, while the Smithsonian National Museum of American History and the National Museum of African American History and Culture provide deep dives into the diverse narratives that have shaped America. For art lovers, the National Gallery of Art offers an extensive collection of European and American art, and the modern and contemporary works at the Hirshhorn Museum stimulate the imagination.
The city's charm extends into its vibrant neighborhoods. Georgetown, with its cobblestone streets and quaint boutiques, offers a picturesque stroll, while the U Street Corridor pulses with live music and nightlife, echoing its roots as the heart of African-American culture in Washington, D.C. For those interested in dining and shopping, the revitalized areas of Penn Quarter and Logan Circle provide numerous options. Additionally, the city's cherry blossoms, particularly around the Tidal Basin in the spring, draw visitors from around the world, creating a breathtaking panorama of pink and white.
Washington, D.C. also serves as a base for exploring nearby attractions in Virginia and Maryland, such as Mount Vernon, the estate of George Washington, and the historic battlefield of Gettysburg. With its rich tapestry of history, culture, and beauty, Washington, D.C. is a city that offers endless opportunities for exploration and inspiration, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking to understand the heart and soul of the United States.
Find your Next Adventure in Washington
Explore Washington
Iconic Landmarks
Space Needle
- An iconic observation tower in Seattle, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, including downtown Seattle and Mount Rainier.
Mount Rainier National Park
- A vast park centered around Mount Rainier, a massive active volcano and the highest peak in the state, popular for hiking, climbing, and scenic drives.
Pike Place Market
- A historic public market overlooking the Elliott Bay waterfront in Seattle, famous for its fresh seafood, vibrant atmosphere, and the original Starbucks coffee shop.
Olympic National Park
- A diverse natural reserve on the Olympic Peninsula, known for its dramatic Pacific coastline, lush rainforests, and mountain ranges.
Museum of Pop Culture (MoPOP)
- A nonprofit museum in Seattle dedicated to contemporary popular culture, featuring exhibits on music, science fiction, and pop culture.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
- An exhibit in the Seattle Center showcasing the studio glass of Dale Chihuly, featuring vibrant glass sculptures and large-scale installations set in a lush garden.
Cultural Experiences
National Cherry Blossom Festival
- Celebrate spring in Washington, D.C., with beautiful cherry blossoms and a series of events that honor both American and Japanese cultures.
Smithsonian Folklife Festival
- This annual festival on the National Mall celebrates cultural traditions around the world with music, dance, crafts, and cooking demonstrations.
Kennedy Center Performances
- The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts offers a wide range of performances from ballet and opera to jazz and folk music, showcasing both American and international artists.
U Street Music Scene
- Explore the rich African American cultural heritage of Washington, D.C., through the vibrant live music scene on U Street, once known as "Black Broadway."
Embassy Row Tours
- Take a walk along Massachusetts Avenue’s Embassy Row, where many of the city’s foreign embassies are located, often hosting cultural events and open houses.
Adams Morgan Day
- Experience the diversity of cultures in Washington, D.C., at this annual street festival in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, featuring international music, food, and crafts.
Outdoor Adventures
Mount Rainier National Park
Explore the iconic peak, hiking trails, and stunning wildflower meadows in this majestic national park.
San Juan Islands Kayaking
Paddle among the serene San Juan Islands, spotting orcas and enjoying the tranquil waters.
Olympic National Park
Traverse diverse ecosystems from lush rainforests to rugged coastal beaches and alpine mountains.
Columbia River Gorge Windsurfing
Experience thrilling windsurfing in the scenic gorge known for its consistent winds and beautiful vistas.
North Cascades National Park
Hike or climb in this less crowded park with dramatic mountain scenery and pristine alpine lakes.
Spokane River Centennial Trail
Bike or walk along this 37-mile trail that offers scenic views of the Spokane River and surrounding nature.
Off the Beaten Path
Palouse Falls
- Located in southeastern Washington, Palouse Falls features a stunning 198-foot waterfall amidst a dramatic canyon landscape.
Cape Flattery
- The northwesternmost point of the contiguous United States, Cape Flattery offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean, rugged cliffs, and sea caves.
Ape Cave
- Explore the longest lava tube in the continental United States, located near Mount St. Helens, offering a unique underground adventure.
Steptoe Butte
- This quartzite island offers panoramic views of the surrounding Palouse hills, ideal for photography and bird watching.
Blue Lake Rhino Cave
- Hike to this remote cave in the North Cascades, where you can see a rare, naturally preserved rhinoceros fossil cast inside.
San Juan Islands Sculpture Park
- Discover over 150 sculptures set across 20 acres of parkland on San Juan Island, blending art with the natural environment.
Washington Fun Facts
- Washington is the only state named after a United States president.
- Starbucks, the world's largest coffee chain, was founded in Seattle in 1971.
- The city of Spokane hosted the first environmentally themed World’s Fair, Expo '74.
- Washington is the leading producer of apples in the United States.
- The Space Needle in Seattle was built for the 1962 World’s Fair.
- Washington's state insect is the Green Darner Dragonfly.
- The Hoh Rain Forest in Olympic National Park is one of the largest temperate rainforests in the U.S.
- Washington is one of the few states in America that produces commercial quantities of lavender.
- The state's Mount Rainier is one of the most dangerous volcanoes in the world due to its large amount of glacial ice.
- Puget Sound’s deep harbors made Seattle a key supply point for the Klondike Gold Rush in the late 1890s.
Featured Picture Gallery
Lenticular Clouds are Formed By Winds that Form Over a Mountain
Ride the Seattle Great Wheel to Experience the Amazing Skyline
Explore the Seattle Skyline from the Puget Sound