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Adams-Morgan

This hip neighborhood of Washington DC is home to a wide variety of shops, restaurants, bars, coffee houses, art galleries, and other unique institutions. It is populated with various ethnic groups, making the area come alive with colors, enticing food aromas, and lively culture. The name Adams Morgan comes from the area's history of its two segregated schools, one was the all-black Thomas P. Morgan Elementary School, and the other was the all-white John Quincy Adams Elementary School. In 1958, the two schools combined, giving the area its name. Adams Morgan is a popular residential neighborhood for young professionals and continues to add culture and fun to the capital city. More »

African-American Civil War Memorial

In a long overdue memorial to the African-American soldiers who served for the Union during the Civil War, this memorial was presented to the public in 1998 and contains 209,145 names honored on brushed stainless steel plaques surrounding a central Spirit of Freedom sculpture depicting members of different regiments preparing to leave home. The memorial is a powerful reminder of the sacrifice and struggle that African-American soldiers undertook to fight for their freedom. The memorial includes the 7,000 white officers that commanded the regiments of the United States Colored Troops (USCT). The memorial can be found in the Shaw neighborhood, who is named after the same white colonel Robert Gould Shaw, who is depicted in the epic war film Glory. The memorial is presented in a granite plaza in a semi-circle, and a nearby museum provides further research and information about the lives of the men who served. More »

Albert Einstein Memorial

This 12-foot bronze statue of the beloved physicist, Albert Einstein, graces an elm and holly grove on the grounds of the National Academy of Sciences. The sculpture depicts Einstein sitting on steps of white granite, holding a paper with some of his most famous mathematical/scientific equations written on it. These equations include: the theory of general relativity, the photoelectric effect, and the equivalence of energy and matter. Artist Robert Banks sculpted this memorial; he crafted the sculpture in 19 pieces, then had them welded together to create the life-like depiction we see today. More »

Alexandria Archaeology Museum

This community-based museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts and objects from the Alexandria area. Visitors can browse the collections and rotating exhibits to view priceless objects such as archaic stone tools, a 19th century medical set, a pitcher made to memorialize the death of George Washington, and many more local finds. Since the area has a lot of historic significance in America's founding years, many relics from the 17th-19th century have been found here, including Civil War artifacts and things that relate to post-war occupation of the site. The museum even boasts a public laboratory where museum patrons can watch archaeologists re-construct and preserve artifacts. More »

Alexandria Black History Museum

This informative museum traces the history of African Americans in Alexandria, dating from 1749. The various cultural, social, and historical influences of African Americans have had a long-lasting impression on this Virginia community and continue to add depth and interest to the state. The original building was built in 1940 and housed a the first African American public library in Alexandria. Over time, additional buildings were added to the library, and the Museum was created. Since opening in 1983, the museum has added various facilities and sites, such as the Watson Reading Room and the Alexandria African American Heritage Park. Some of the interesting artifacts and collections you'll see here are: African art, photographs, documents relating to the first African American public schools, and objects and memorabilia tracing the route of both slaves from Africa and also those who struggled right here in the United States. More »

Anacostia Museum

The museum is located in the Anacostia neighborhood which gets its name from the native Nacotchtank people, who were later called Nacostines that lived in the area around the time that John Smith sailed up the Potomac in 1608. The development of the area provided the first real growth of the suburb in 1854 when Navy Yard workers settled her given its close location to the docks and waterways. Anacostia is closely connected to its relationship with the African-American community that began collectively moving here before the Civil War. One of the community's most notable men was abolitionist and statesman Frederick Douglass who bought a house in 1877 at Cedar Hill. Today approximately 92% of the population in Anacostia is African-American and the Anacostia Museum provides a wonderful venue to exhibit the cultural relationship that the African-American community has that dates back before the Civil War. Associated with the Smithsonian museum, the museum highlights interactive and special displays which have to do with current issues and topics of interests, despite the fact that there is not a permanent exhibit on hand. It's this reason that allows the museum to adapt to the changing needs of the museum and address the more pertinent issues. More »

Anderson House

Anderson House is both a museum and the national headquarters for the Society of Cincinnati, an organization that was formed in 1783 to protect the ideals and values of America's independence and of the Revolutionary War. The house was originally built in the early 1900s, for Larz Anderson and his wife, Isabel Weld Perkins, as a winter home. It is now listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is an excellent place to see authentic turn-of-the-century decorations and furniture. More »

Annapolis

Maryland's state capital is also known as the "Sailing Capital of America," thanks to 17 miles of waterfront and a picturesque harbor bobbing with sailboats from around the world. Sailors and landlubbers alike enjoy hanging out in Annapolis, which celebrated its 300th birthday in 2008. Historic sites abound, including the oldest statehouse in the Nation, mid-18th century residences of the signers of the Declaration of Independence, the US Naval Academy (officially designated a "National Historic Landmark"), and the third oldest college in the country, St. John's College. Despite its historical reputation, the narrow streets and City Dock overflow with contemporary attractions too, and many come here to dine, browse shops and art galleries, and listen to music in nightclubs. More »

Antietam National Battlefield

On September 17, 1862, 23,000 Union and Confederate soldiers of the 100,000 engaged at the Battle of Antietam died. To this day, it is the single bloodiest day of battle in any war in American history. General George McLellan's ability to rebuff his counterpart General Robert E. Lee's incursion into Maryland, a border-state, was a significant turning point for the war in that the heavy losses sent Lee back into Virginia instead of further north. Perhaps more important, though, was the pretext it provided for President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation five days later. History buffs will be drawn to this place like bees to honey, it is positively dripping with significance. More »

Arlington House

This Greek revival-style mansion sits atop a hill in Arlington Cemetery, affording beautiful views of the surrounding city and Potomac River. It was constructed in the early 1800s as the home of George Washington Parke Custis, the step-grandson of former President George Washington. After spending much of their lives at the Arlington House, Custis and his wife saw their daughter, Mary Anna, marry Lt. Robert E. Lee (famed Confederate lieutenant). The couple lived at Arlington with Custis and his wife, and helped them keep their farms, house, and businesses in order. After Custis died, the house was given to Mary Anna, and she and Robert E. Lee took care of the estate; they reorganized the slaves, cleaned up the landscaping, and rebuilt many of the buildings there. The mansion has since been restored and is under the care of the National Parks Service. More »

Arlington National Cemetery

Just across the Potomac River from the District, Arlington National Cemetery, once the home of General Robert E. Lee, is a nakedly moving, historic testament to the courage, valor, and sacrifice of the men and women who have served the United States since its inception over two centuries prior. Veterans killed in every conflict from the Revolutionary War to the current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq are buried here--more than 290,000 Americans are buried among the 624 acres at Arlington. Two Presidents, John F. Kennedy and William H. Taft, are located here as well--Kennedy's grave site marked by an "eternal flame." His brother Robert is nearby. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier contains the remains of unidentified veterans of World War I, World War II, and the Korean War. It is guarded around the clock, 24-hours a day, by the Army. Other notable tributes include the Marine Corps War Memorial, which is modeled after Joe Rosenthal's indelible image of the six Marines raising the flag on Iwo Jima, and that of the Challenger space shuttle. The scale is hard to fathom until you are stalking the vast rows of graves, each representing an enormous individual sacrifice for the collective society they lived within. There are few places better suited to teaching your children about war and its consequences, and still fewer with such connections to the formative events of American history. More »

Art Museum of the Americas

Founded in 1976 by the Organization of American States, the Art Museum of the Americas resides in an almost century-old mansion located just off the National Mall. The museum seeks to house and present the works of artists from all over North and South America and Caribbean. The Spanish colonial house and surrounding grounds provide a warm and intimate setting to admire the artwork and sculptures housed on the estate. More »

Arthur M. Sackler Gallery

Connecting with the Freer Gallery of Art, the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery showcases an extensive collection of Asian art. Both museums are associated with the Smithsonian Institute and have ancient artifacts, interesting historical tidbits, and impressive art on display. Items that you can see include Buddhist paintings, Korean ceramics, and ancient Chinese metalwork. More »

Arts Club of Washington

This 200 year-old townhouse served as a temporary White House for President James Monroe, who waited for the real one to be rebuilt after the British burned it during the War of 1812. Today the structure is headquarters for a club that promotes the arts in Washington. The club frequently hosts art shows and concerts, and visitors are welcome to wander around the rather charming abode. More »

Bartholdi Park

Created in 1932, the exquisitely manicured grounds and geometrically shaped landscaping change periodically to reflect the latest trends in horticulture. The park's main feature is the 30-foot high fountain sculpted by the park's namesake, Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, in 1876. At the request of Frederick Olmsted, the fountain was relocated to Washington from Philadelphia at the end of the International Centennial Exhibition in Philadelphia. The park is an excellent place to relax and admire the foresight of Olmsted to bring this beautiful fountain to DC. More »

Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception

This huge basilica, located on the campus of the Catholic University of America, is the largest Catholic church in the United States. Construction was begun in 1920, but it was interrupted by the Great Depression and World War II and wasn't dedicated until 1959. Its architectural style is known as neo-Byzantine, and its imposing dome dominates every exterior view. Stained glass and interior decor is everywhere and accentuates this house of worship most exquisitely. The church's grandeur is worth seeing for the religious and non-religious alike. More »

Battleground National Cemetery

Battleground National Cemetery is one of the country's smallest national cemeteries, encompassing only about one acre of land. It was established in 1864 under the direction of then-President Abraham Lincoln, as a dedicated place to bury 41 Union soldiers who died in the Battle of Fort Stevens. The cemetery is appointed with various patriotic elements, including two Civil War smoothbore guns, a central flagpole surrounded by 41 headstones to commemorate the late soldiers, and a bronze plaque of Lincoln's Gettysburg Address. There are also four granite pillars adorning the cemetery's grounds to commemorate the four volunteer companies who fought bravely to protect Fort Stevens. More »

Bead Museum

This tiny place in the middle of the Penn Quarter celebrates the bead as both ornament and symbol. Beads are on display and for sale. More »

Benjamin Banneker Park

This circular park near the waterfront honors Benjamin Banneker, a free black and self-taught mathematician and astronomer, who helped survey the District boundaries based on celestial calculations. George Washington hired Banneker and Andrew Ellicott in 1791 to lay out the 10-mile square plot that would define the District of Columbia. Pierre L'Enfant designed the federal city within Banneker's and Ellicott's set boundaries. More »

Benjamin Franklin Statue

This statue of printer, diplomat, and inventor Benjamin Franklin stands on a pedestal in front of the Old Post Office Pavilion at 12th St. and Pennsylvania Ave., NW. Franklin's statue stands here because he was also a postmaster, appointed by King George III before the Revolutionary War. More »

Bureau of Engraving and Printing

The Bureau of Engraving and Printing is responsible for printing paper currency, passports, immigration documents, and Homeland Security documents. It's a fascinating place to visit, so try to get your tickets early in the morning, as the lines form fast and the tickets go even faster. The tour tells you all the ins and outs of money making--how they make it counterfeit proof, how they salvage mutilated money, and other interesting facts that will keep you and the children engaged. More »

Capital Crescent Trail

The Capital Crescent Trail follows a piece of old rail-line from Water Street in Georgetown along the Potomac River to the suburbs just outside the city in Maryland. It stretches 11 miles in total, and is the main artery for bike commuters coming in from Bethesda and elsewhere on their daily commutes into work in the city. On the weekends, runners, walkers, bikers, and rollerbladers share the path. It runs over old railway trestles and tunnels, which adds to the scenery. It's a perfect for a short afternoon ride for riders of all fitness levels. More »

Capitol Hill

Coined as "Our Nation's Neighborhood," Capitol Hill is located east of the Mall and is home to wonderful restaurants, unique shops, and DC's artist community. Make sure to try and visit Capitol Hill on the second Saturday of every month as the cafes, galleries, and most shops open their arms (and their doors) to the public to offer drinks, music, and recitals. If you want to take a detour off the tourist beaten path, come visit Capitol Hill. More »

Carlyle House

This 18th-century Palladian-style house in northern Virginia was the home of Scottish merchant John Carlyle and his wife Sarah Fairfax. Built in 1753 and completely out of stone, the couple moved in the same day that their first son was born. The Carlyle House was a symbol for the social elite, and was considered one of the most luxurious homes in Alexandria. The house even has a significant military past dating back to before the Revolutionary War. The mansion was used as a personal headquarters by British General Braddock in 1755 to coordinate his troops in the French and Indian War. The Carlyle family was marred by personal tragedies when eight of his children didn't live past childhood, and his first wife Sarah died tragically during childbirth. The house itself has a fascinating history worth taking a look at what life was like before and after the Revolutionary War. After the family lost ownership of the house in 1827, the house took on various uses including a hospital during the Civil War and a hotel and private residence. Later in 1970, the house was restored to its original appearance during the years that Carlyle and his family lived there, showing an aspect of social life in early Alexandria. More »

Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle

Recently having undergone a massive renovation, much of the church has been restored to a pristine condition. The inside of the cathedral is covered with beautiful mosaics that are reminiscent of classic churches in Italy. The Cathedral plays a very important role for Washington's Catholic community. Pope John Paul II visited here in 1979, and the "Red Mass" is also celebrated here every Fall for members of the legal profession. Finally, John F. Kennedy's funeral Mass was said at St. Matthew's on November 25, 1963. More »

Cedar Hill

Frederick Douglass lived in this house after he moved from Rochester, NY in the post Civil War years. His decision to move to DC was clearly to take an even more hands-on role in the fighting for equal rights of African-Americans. The home is furnished just as is it was from 1878-1895 with many of Douglass personal possessions on exhibit. A visitors center welcomes you at the bottom of the driveway where a tour guide will then show you around the estate. If you are visiting with 5 or more people make sure you call ahead to make a reservation. More »

Charles Sumner School Museum and Archives

Charles Sumner School Museum & Archives is a beautifully restored historic site, which was the first permanent school for African American children in Washington, D.C. The school originally opened in 1872, and was later restored in 1984-86. The building currently houses the official Archives of the D.C. Public Schools, as well as a research library. There is also a museum of public education on site. Also used as an art space, the Charles Sumner School Museum and Archives has two to three exhibits during each exhibit cycle. The first cycle runs mid-September through the third week of January, while the second cycle runs the third week of February through end of June. More »

Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park

If the city life has you jonesing for wildlife and natural scenery, Chesapeake and Ohio Canal National Historical Park is the place for you. With 19,236 acres to bike, hike, horseback ride on, and explore, you can get out of the city, without having to go too far. The canal connects the Chesapeake Bay with the Ohio River and was once used to ship grain, lumber, coal, and other goods from one location to another. Today, you can enjoy 184.5 miles of scenic beauty while hiking on one of the many trails. Perhaps the most popular trail is to the Great Falls of the Potomac River. Here, you can watch kayakers, white water rafters and climbers try to own the raging water and jagged cliffs. More »

Christ Church

Since 1773 this church has been home to Virginia's first Episcopalian congregation. Membership has included the likes of George Washington and General Robert E. Lee, commander of the Confederate forces during the Civil War. Lee even took command of the Confederates here, while Washington and his revolutionary band of brothers held meetings here in service of this ideal we now call America. The congregation is as active as ever, with over 2,000 members, so it has remained hugely relevant despite the centuries passed since the heady days of the Revolution. It is a National Historic Landmark and apart from its historical significance, is also very pretty. Well worth a stop while in Old Town. More »

Clara Barton National Historic Site

This old Victorian-style home not only was the home of the famous founder of the American Red Cross, but also the headquarters and warehouse for her beloved institution. Clara Barton is not only well-known for founding the American branch of the vital relief organization, but also for providing emergency relief for unfortunate victims of natural disasters and war from the Civil War until her death in 1912. The house pays tribute to her life and her tireless efforts to help out those more unfortunate than her. More »

Claude Moore Colonial Farm

This colonial experience brings visitors back to simple life on an 18th century family farm. The farm is modeled after a low-income pre-Revolutionary farm that operated in 1771, and exhibits here demonstrate everyday life of the tenants who lived on the farm. From crafts to housecleaning to fieldwork, volunteers work hard to demonstrate the ins and outs of daily chores done by the farm families; visitors are treated to interactive living history when they walk around the site. There are special must-see events hosted here throughout the year; one of the highlights is Market Fair, which occurs every third weekend in May, July, and October. The Fair brings together a dedicated group of volunteers to create a lively farm ambiance bustling with activities such as blacksmithing, cobbling, a puppet theater, cabinet making, and a tavern. More »

Congressional Cemetery

The Congressional Cemetery is the final resting place of some of the many individuals who were influential in the growth and development of both the new nation and the city of Washington DC. This includes congressmen who died during their terms in Washington. The striking rows of cenotaphs designed by Benjamin Latrobe were erected to memorialize other congressmen whose remains are buried elsewhere but still honor their service to the country. The cemetery was first founded as a private burial place in 1807, making it the oldest national cemetery on record. Many notable people have been buried here including J. Edgar Hoover and composer John Philip Sousa who composed the United States Marine Corps "Semper Fidelis" official march. The cemetery also is the final resting place of some unlikely individuals like Choctaw chief Push-Ma-Ha-Ta and Lincoln assassination conspirator, David Herold. More »

Congressional Office Buildings

The Congressional office buildings--Dirksen, Russell, and Hart for the Senate and Cannon, Longworth, and Rayburn for the House--are where your representatives and Senators have their offices and they're open to the public. It's a great opportunity to teach some civics to a young one and introduce them to their member of Congress. If there is a particularly salient issue on your mind, you will definitely get an audience with a staffer and maybe even your member, if they're available. It's easy to get around to the different buildings if you use the underground Capitol Subway System, which is accessible once inside one of the buildings. More »

Constitution Gardens

Located in the heart of DC, Constitution Gardens is a great place to take an afternoon stroll or early morning jog. The 52-acre park was once under the Potomac River, but today is high and dry, and is a great place to rest and people watch while visiting the Mall and Memorials. An island in the middle of the lake has stones that hold the names of the 56 men who signed the Declaration of Independence in 1776. More »

Corcoran Gallery of Art

This gallery and museum was built in 1869, making it one of the oldest and largest museums in the United States. When William Wilson Corcoran needed a space larger than his home to show his private collection of art, he started the Corcoran Gallery of Art across the street from the White House. It started with 90 paintings and sculptures, but quickly tripled in size shortly after opening. Although the museum primarily features American artists, like Edward Hopper, Mary Stevenson Cassatt, and Gilbert Stuart, you can see a wide selection of European, Contemporary, Media, Photography, and Decorative arts. More »

Cox's Row

These five Georgetown townhouses were built in 1817 by John Cox, the first elected mayor of Georgetown. Not open to the public, they're worth viewing from the outside for their fine federal-style architectural features: arched doorways and decorative facades. More »

DAR Museum

The DAR museum was established by the Daughters of the American Revolution--women who are descendants of soldiers who fought in the American Revolution in the 1700s. The museum houses an extensive collection of decorative arts and manuscripts, which pre-date the Revolution, and you can also view the genealogy library, which you may discover includes information on your ancestors. As you tour the house, you will walk by American period style rooms, which show what the architectural and decorative styles of rooms in different US states were. DAR is both a non-profit and non-political organization that started in 1890, as a gathering place for women who wanted to express their patriotism. Today, this organization has over 165,000 members from around the world, and continues to promote and preserve what the Revolution stood for--independence and freedom for America. More »

Decatur House

Standing elegantly near Lafayette Square, the Decatur House is a historic home and a magnificent representation of 19th century Victorian-style architecture and design. The house was constructed in 1818 for Commodore Stephen Decatur Jr. and his wife Susan; it was the first house built on President's Park (now Lafayette Square). After Stephen's death in 1820, Susan sold most of their furnishings and rented out the house to various famous figures, including Henry Clay and Martin Van Buren. When Susan was forced to sell the house due to her debt, it passed through various hands until it was purchased by General Edward Beale in 1872. He and his wife redecorated the home in fashionable Victorian style and eventually gave it to their son, Truxton. It was donated to the National Trust by the Beale family in 1956 and has since been preserved, renovated, and restored to its current condition. It now houses various historical exhibits and period furnishings and accessories. More »

Department of State

The Harry S. Truman Building in Foggy Bottom houses the Department of State, which is primarily tasked with directing the foreign policy missions of the United States. The Secretary of State and deputies have their offices here, and it is indeed one of the great power centers in Washington. Guided tours that last around 45 minutes take you through the Diplomatic Reception Rooms where official state visits are held amidst early American and colonial decor, including the desk upon which the Treaty of Paris was signed in 1783, ending the American Revolution. It is, as the State Department Web site cautions, a "fine arts tour," so you won't be meeting Madame or Monsieur Secretary on your visit, but it is still highly fascinating if you're at all compelled by history. If you are interested in a tour, follow the instructions on the Web site and be sure to request your tour at least two months in advance (and three if you'll be visiting in the summer). Reservations are required, so otherwise you'll be stuck outside. More »

Department of the Interior Museum

One of the new visions of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's presidency begins with the creation the newly established Department of the Interior, an extension of the "New Deal" philosophies taking America in a new direction for the future. One of the department's important contributions to the United States was the establishment and management of the new National Park service as well as other federally owned land around the United States. The department was headed by Secretary of the Interior Harold Ickes, who in conjunction with President Roosevelt decided to include a museum to inform the public about the purpose of the department. In the impressively large neoclassic building is the Department of the Interior Museum that takes a closer look at issues revolving federal land including Native American affairs. The museum opened on March 8, 1938 and had a fairly decent collection of 1,000 objects in 95 exhibits. Today that number has expanded considerably holding nearly 6,000 objects. Dioramas and artifacts help interpret the history of the landscape that makes up our national identity in a very articulate way. More »

Discovery Theater

This fun attraction in Washington DC is one of the most kid-friendly sites in the city. It was founded in 1964 and has since been putting on great live performances that are enjoyed by kids and adults alike. The Theater is part of the Smithsonian Associates, which allows for much support and ensures quality shows. Stop by for a concert by Rocknocerous Returns (an upbeat musical group) or the tribal dance performances of Lesole South Africa; whatever show you choose, it's guaranteed to please everyone in the family. The shows are reviewed in part by a Teacher Advisory Board--a group of local educators that come together to discuss and review the theater's performances and offer suggestions, advice, and reviews about the current offerings. More »

Dumbarton House

Situated in the genteel neighborhood of Georgetown, the Dumbarton House is a premier example of fine Federalist architecture while taking a peek into American history. The name Dumbarton House comes from the tract of land overlooking the city called "Rock of Dumbarton," in respect to the home town of Scottish owner, Ninian Beall. The construction of the home was started in 1799, however due to delays and bankruptcy it wouldn't be completed until 1804 when the first Register of the U.S. Treasury, Joseph Nourse, acquired the property and completed building the house that he called "Cedar Hill." From its vantage point, one could look over the city and the budding capital of the United States. The home was sold to President Madison's friend Charles Carroll, who renamed the house "Belle Vue." During the War of 1812 against the British, Dolly Madison would flee to "Belle Vue" when the British burned down the White House in 1814. The old brick home also houses a collection of items that reflect the fashion and styles of the time including elegant furnishings and meticulous gardens. More »

Dumbarton Oaks

This beautiful complex sits in the Georgetown neighborhood of Washington DC on ten acres of beautifully landscaped gardens. The Federal-style home and surrounding land was purchased in 1920 by Robert and Mildred Woods Bliss and was landscaped over the next thirty years through a collaboration of Mildred and landscape designer Beatrix Farrand. Since then, the Blisses have split up the property and have sold pieces of it to Harvard University, the U.S. Government (to maintain as a park), and the Danish Embassy. It was 1940 that they gave the house, some of the gardens, and their Byzantine collections to Harvard. The university still uses the house as a museum to display Byzantine, Pre-Columbian, and European artwork, and to house a collection of library reference books on the same subjects. More »

Dupont Circle

This area was once where the wealthy aristocrats and high class citizens settled in the 1800s. Today, many of the historic mansions and rowhouses have been remodeled and turned into art galleries, ethnic restaurants, and fabulous nightclubs. Dupont Circle is also a park, where you can pack a pick nick, throw a frisbee, and spend the day relaxing. More »

Dupont Circle Call Boxes

Fire and police emergency call boxes were first installed on the streets of Washington in the 1860s, but were disabled after 9/11, when a new emergency call system was put in place. Local cultural and community organizations have banded together to sponsor and fund artists' creative re-design of the boxes. Throughout the Dupont Circle neighborhood, you will see 22 of these hunter green call boxes, each with a different artist's interpretation of the famous Dupont Circle fountain, rendered on a digitized weatherproof panel. Look for another 850 decorated boxes in Capitol Hill, Mount Pleasant, and other neighborhoods. More »

Eastern Market

The Eastern Market is an open-air market reminiscent of markets in Europe. Here you can order fresh meats, fruits, bread, and almost anything else from local merchants at much lower prices than the supermarket. There is also a lunch area with DC's famous crab cakes. The weekends sport even more activities with a farmers market on Saturday and a flea market on Sunday. Eastern Market is easily accessible via Metro by the Eastern Market Station, which serves both the blue and orange lines. More »

Embassy Row

Extending west from DuPont Circle on Massachusetts Avenue, Embassy Row refers to the plethora of foreign embassies that line the road. Although Embassy Row doesn't house all of the embassies in Washington, it does contain the majority of them. Take a stroll along the road and glimpse at why Washington is such as a cosmopolitan city. More »

Enid A. Haupt Garden

A pleasurable place to linger on the mall is at the Enid A. Haupt Garden, where festive flowers, hanging baskets, and cherry trees offer a taste of nature in the heart of the city. The garden was named after a woman who was passionate about horticulture and can be found on the rooftop of the Ripley Center and Sackler and African Art museums. Know before you go, however, though on a rooftop, you are actually still on ground level as the museums and center are below ground. More »

Folger Shakespeare Library

Are you the kind of person who tends to toss out the odd Bard quotation on a regular basis? Well, in that case, you're destined for your spiritual home at the Folger Shakespeare Library, a research library affiliated with Amherst University. Folger calls itself "home to the world’s largest and finest collection of Shakespeare materials and to major collections of other rare Renaissance books, manuscripts, and works of art." It sits in an architecturally significant "Moderne" style building in Capitol Hill--designed by Paul Cret and completed in 1932. The exterior marble facade includes nine bas-relief scenes from Shakespearian works. Outside the Elizabethan garden is home to plants and flowers from the era as well as more sculptures. The library has a major educational and public outreach mission and puts on many literary-inspired performances, lectures, and other programs not just about Shakespeare--check the Web site for scheduling. More »

Ford's Theatre

From first glance, the date April 14, 1865 doesn't appear more than just an arbitrary date. However if you place that same date within Ford's Theatre on the night that the comedy Our American Cousin was playing, one of the greatest national tragedies involving a former US President took place. President Abraham Lincoln was shot and killed by John Wilkes Booth, while sitting in the President's Box with his wife and two friends. The tragedy griped the nation as one of the nation's most beloved presidents died shortly after the attack in a nearby boarding house. Overshadowed by the tragedy on that fateful night, the only two year old theater was closed for nearly 100 years due to public demand. For many years the theater was used as a museum containing many artifacts from the theater and that particular night, including Booth's gun and the flag that was torn by Booth. In 1968, the theater eventually awoke from a solemn rest from the stage and was reopened as both a historic site and working theater. Today visitors will see the theater as it looked back in 1865 and get a glimpse into one of the major events of American history. More »

Fort Ward Museum and Park

Functioning as a stronghold to protect Washington DC during the American Civil War, Fort Ward stands as an important beacon in our country's history. It is the most well-preserved Union fort that was used to protect the capital area and offers various artifacts, collections, and structures for visitors to see today. While touring the Fort, check out the Officers' Hut where soldiers with high ranks lived, the underground bombproofs that were built to hold 500 men during an attack, and the powder magazine where black powder was kept. In the museum, see priceless objects such as a Hale Rocket Launcher (one of only three in the United States), a uniform worn by a Union soldier, and a topographical defense map from 1862. Everyone in the family will enjoy a visit here, as there is so much to see and do. More »

Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial

Despite Roosevelt's request for modesty in erecting a memorial to him, this park stretches for over 7 acres and is laid out in four sections, one for each of his historic terms. Highlights include a bas-relief sculpture depicting FDR's funeral cortege, a dramatic waterfall with a reflecting pool that represents the peace the President strove to achieve during his tenure in office, an array of statues honoring the men and women who endured the Great Depression, a room dedicated to the memory of his Eleanor, and a sculpture of Roosevelt, who suffered from polio, in his wheelchair. More »

Freedom Plaza

This raised plaza is on Pennsylvania Avenue across from the Willard Hotel, at the other end of the avenue from the Capitol. Originally named Western Plaza, it became Freedom Plaza to honor Dr. Martin Luther King, who had worked on his "I Have a Dream" speech in his room at the Willard. The plaza is inlaid with a map depicting parts of the L'Enfant Plan, with quotes from famous people about Washington, DC inscribed in the paving stones surrounding the plan. More »

Freer Gallery of Art

Opening in 1923, the Freer Gallery of Art has an extensive collection of East and South Asian art. The gallery is one of two museums that the Smithsonian Institute operates. Some of the ancient artifacts you can see include Chinese ceramics, Persian manuscripts, and Korean pottery. The art and artifacts originate from all over Asia, Egypt, and Syria, but you can also see certain works made by American artists. More »

Friendship Archway

To celebrate and acknowledge the sister-city relationship that DC shares with Beijing, the Friendship Archway was constructed. The archway is said to be the largest in the world, of all single spanning archways, and has 7000 tiles, 7 roofs, and over 250 magnificently painted dragons found all over the structure. Marking the entrance of Chinatown, the Friendship Archway will impress you with its Qing and Ming dynasty influences and intricate detail. More »

Friendship Firehouse

The Friendship Firehouse first met as a company in 1774, making it the first and oldest volunteer firefighting company in the city of Alexandria. Today, you and the children can tour the firehouse that was originally built in 1855, remodeled in 1871, and renovated in 1992. Items on display include an original Hand Pumper, which pumped water to the fire hose, leather water buckets, parade and banner paraphernalia and several other historical items. You can also see memorabilia of George Washington, who was involved with and visited the firehouse. More »

Gadsby's Tavern Museum

In the early days of Alexandria, your libations and social atmosphere could be found at Gadsby's Tavern, a popular rendezvous of political, business, and social life in the city. Gadsby's was founded on the former site of a local tavern and was built in 1785, and later a City Hotel was built in addition to the tavern in 1792. Named after Englishman John Gadsby, who operated them from 1796 to 1808, the tavern was frequently visited by George Washington who also was in attendance at the annual Birthnight Ball held there. Among other famous people who frequented the tavern were John Adams, Thomas Jefferson, James Madison, and the Marquis de Lafayette. Today if you go to the tavern you can find a museum highlighting what life was like in the Revolutionary days in Alexandria and the social significance of the place. The tavern also provides a period dining experience that whisks you back to the late eighteenth century. You'll find "George Washington's Favorite" of cider-glazed duckling with smoked bacon, spoonbread, rhotekraut, and port wine glacee among other period-exotic foods. Everything has been restored back to as it would have looked when the social gentry of Alexandria met here, making Gadsby's as close to an authentic experience as possible of what early American life looked like. More »

Gandhi Statue

On Embassy Row, on a triangular slice of park across the street from the Embassy of India, is this bronze statue to Mahatma Gandhi (1869-1948), known for his leadership in advocating for non-violent ways of achieving social and political change. More »

George Mason Memorial

In tribute to the founding father, the George Mason Memorial lies on East Potomac Park near the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. George Mason was instrumental in the construction of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which Thomas Jefferson used as a model for the Declaration of Independence. Mason abstained from signing the Constitution because it did not guarantee slaves freedom and people's privacy from the federal government. Enjoy this beautiful and peaceful park. More »

George Washington Masonic Memorial

This beautiful building is a tribute to George Washington, America's first president and a notable Mason. Its 333-foot tower is an homage to the ancient lighthouse of Alexandria, and offers one of the most stunning views of the DC skyline anywhere. The building was completed in 1932 after a 10-year construction process, and it is a real gem, inside and out. In addition to the architecture, there are several artifacts of interest related to the life of George Washington, including the clock his doctor stopped at his time of death at 10:20pm on December 14, 1799 and the silver trowel Washington used to lay the cornerstone of the Capitol in 1793. Elsewhere in the building are ornate murals and stained glass scenes that commemorate the legendary American historical figure. Guided tours are offered several times during the day and it's very accessible from Old Town Alexandria. More »

Georgetown

This trendy area is one of Washington DC's oldest neighborhoods. It was settled in 1751 as a tobacco port and was included in the boundaries of the US capital city when it was established forty years later, in 1791. Today, the area is known for its trendy shopping, dining, and nightlife, and is home to many of the city's wealthiest residents. In addition to being a hotspot for entertainment, Georgetown is famous for its classic architecture, and while strolling the streets, visitors can see everything from Georgian mansions to Victorian beauties to Federal revival houses. The private and well-respected Georgetown University also is located here, so the area abounds with college-aged students especially during the academic year, adding even more life to nighttime entertainment. More »

Georgetown Station Post Office

Yes, it is just a post office, but the historic building itself is worth a visit. It's a majestic structure, built in 1857, and made of smooth granite. The interior has been renovated to get it back to its original design, complete with marble pillars (ok, so they're cast-iron painted to look like marble, but it's the thought that counts, right?), wood floors, gold chandeliers, and cherry and maple wood accents. The building is one of the oldest post offices in the country and was originally used as a Customs House. More »

Georgetown University

The nation's first Jesuit Catholic university was founded in 1789 by John Carroll, who was friends with George Washington and Benjamin Franklin. Carroll was designated as the first head of the Catholic Church in America by Pope Pius VI, and one of the first things he did was to establish a Catholic university that promoted faith and learning. Situated on a elevated parcel of land, the meager 100 acre site makes up its size with its spectacular views over the Potomac to northern Virginia, and its varied architectural design which incorporates the quadrangle idea. Washington addressed students from a building called "Old North," which still stands today. The university is a study in architectural styles, including Georgian, neo-Gothic, and Victorian. More »

Glen Echo Park

This park has been a gathering place for the local community since the late 1800s, when it was used as a Chautauqua--a place committed to educating and entertaining the public. It was then turned into an amusement park and offered thrill rides, carousel rides, and family fun until 1971, when it was bought by the National Park Service. Although the amusement rides have long been taken down, the Dentzel carousel, which was built in 1920, still functions and offers old fashioned fun. The park is now committed to offering arts and entertainment programs to youth and adults alike. You can participate in pottery painting, glass art, and photography classes, or you can and your children can watch one of the many theatrical performances, created and performed by local youth. More »

Gunston Hall

The ornate Gunston Hall is a Georgian mansion that was once home to one of the founding fathers, George Mason who was known primarily for his involvement with creating the Bill of Rights as well as its contributions to authoring the Constitution. He lived and died in the Virginia home on a 5,500-acre plantation which was built between 1755-1759. An English indentured servant William Buckland is considered the one responsible for the architectural design for the house he built for the Mason brothers. He came from England in exchange for 4 years work for the Mason brothers, in which he would go on to build other buildings in the area. The inside incorporates an English rococo and chinoiserie influence in the woodwork and the bright palate of colors used in different rooms. Outside the gardens stretch for miles as you get the feeling that nothing has been touched by the twentieth century in thew quiet simplicity of this place. More »

Halcyon House

This private home is not open to the public, but tourists can appreciate its exterior. The oldest part of the house was built in 1789 by Benjamin Stoddert, who was a Revolutionary War cavalry officer and first secretary of the Navy. Originally, the house, like Carlyle House in Old Town Alexandria, was waterfront on the Potomac River. Pierre Charles L'Enfant designed its garden. A number of late 18th century houses, all private homes, lie on this street. More »

Harpers Ferry National Park

This historic park lies where the Potomac and Shenandoah Rivers meet and includes the town of Harpers Ferry and thousands of acres of surrounding land. The area is famous for many reasons, including John Brown's abolitionist raid on the armory, the town's role as a 19th century manufacturing hub, the arrival of the first American railroad, as a coveted base for both Union and Confederate troops during the Civil War, and for many other reasons as well. Harper's Ferry was the site of one of the first integrated American schools--Storer College, which was vital to the abolitionist movement and reintegration of African Americans into society after the Civil War. The college was built for freed slaves who wanted to get an education, training, and direction after they were thrown out into the world from slavery. Today, visitors can tour the National Park to view gorgeous scenery, visit the historic museums, walk around downtown Harpers Ferry, and explore the hiking trails that cross the area.
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Heurich Mansion

This is the mansion of Christian Heurich, a German immigrant who moved his brewing operation from Europe to Washington DC after the Civil War. His mansion is often referred to as "the Brewmaster's Castle" for its resemblance to European stately designs. The 31-room mansion was Heurich's home until his death in 1945 at age 102. He was one of Washington's wealthiest residents and also one of its most generous. His home remains extremely well-preserved and offers a delightful look backwards to the late-19th and early-20th centuries. Walk-in tours are available on Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. More »

Hillwood Estate, Museum and Gardens

Marjorie Merriweather Post was an entrepreneur, art collector, philanthropist and much more. She was considered one of the first American businesswomen and her contribution to society was enormous. She purchased the estate and the twenty-five acres surrounding it in 1955, where upon she immediately began renovating the house and grounds. Today, you can tour the exquisite estate and also walk through the formal gardens that include the rose, Japanese style, and cutting gardens. When Marjorie passed away in 1973, at the age of 86, she left one of the most extensive collections of 18th and 19th-century Russian Imperial art and French Decorative arts. Of the 16,000 objects collected, you can see a diamond crown worn by an empress at her wedding, costumes, Imperial Easter Eggs, French ceramics, and furniture. More »

Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden

From the building to the art collection inside to the impressive array of sculptures outside, everything here is a tribute to modern art. The building was designed in 1974 by architect Gordon Bunshaft, and is known by locals as the "donut" because of its cylindrical, spaceship-style shape that is in stark contrast to the other buildings that populate the National Mall. The art collection here comprises over 11,000 pieces, and features artists such as Auguste Rodin, Mary Cassatt, Jackson Pollock, Pablo Picasso, and many other well-known painters and sculptors. The origins of the museum date back to philanthropist Joseph Hirshhorn, who donated his art collection to the federal government in 1966. The government decided to open a museum to showcase his incredible amassment of art, and constructed the museum that stands today and welcomes thousands of visitors each year. More »

House of the Temple

This is the headquarters of the Scottish Rite, a faction of the Freemason congregation. It's Greek-classical stylings are said to resemble the ancient Mausoleum at Halicarnassus, a tomb built for a Greek ruler and one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The House of the Temple itself was designed by well-known DC architect John Pope Russell, in 1911 a 36-year-old up-and-comer. The building was completed by 1915 and has been the seat of the Scottish Rite ever since. The grand columns that dominate the building are instantly recognizable. Inside, there is a library and museum, with artifacts from famous folks like Burl Ives, Robert Burns, and J. Edgar Hoover and other Masonic items. Close to Dupont Circle, it's definitely worth a stop for architecture lovers and those curious about Freemasonry. More »

International Spy Museum

Dedicated to spies everywhere, the International Spy Museum hosts various events, lectures, and exhibits that cover the multiple elements of espionage. From coded Revolutionary War letters to lipstick pistols, the exhibits here offer a unique look into the super-technological side of spying. There are also interactive exhibits and displays about what it takes to be a good spy, how spies are trained, and what motivates a spy to do meticulous work. This museum is one of the city's most popular, as it entertains both kids and adults. They even offer KidSpy workshops once a month that teach the little ones how to be a spy, featuring activities such as assuming an alternate identity, cracking a cipher, making and operate a lie detector, and many more exciting experiences. More »

Iwo Jima Memorial

This famous memorial, also known as the Iwo Jima Statue depicts five US Marines and one Navy hospital corpsman raising an American flag on top of Mt. Suribachi on the island of Iwo Jima, Japan. For war veterans, civilians, and anyone else who views the statue, it stands as a memorial to those brave people who served the United States in World War II (although it was built to remember Marine Corps members). The memorial was modeled after a famous photograph of the incident taken on-site by Joe Rosenthal. Sculptor Felix W. de Weldon saw the photograph and was so moved that he created the clay work of art, using three of the original soldiers as models. The sculpture was shipped in pieces to Brooklyn, cast in bronze (a process that took three years to complete), and assembled in Washington DC. More »

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

The busiest arts center in the nation bears the ideals and vision of former US President John F. Kennedy. Staging over 2,000 performances a year at the 17 acre complex, the center seeks to realize the dreams and ambitions of Kennedy to focus on the "contribution to the human spirit." The center has a remarkably broad number of cultural events available ranging from disciplines such as theater and musicals, dance and ballet, orchestral, chamber, jazz, popular, and folk music for individuals of all ages. The center opened to the public in September 1971, although the idea goes back to 1958 when President Eisenhower signed legislation to see to it that a facility be established with the ideals of preserving American arts. For nearly 40 years the center has been a focal point for arts venues in DC and an advocate for the arts. Following Kennedy's 1963 assassination Congress passed a measure to establish the center as a "living memorial" to the popular president. More »

Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens

This beautiful oasis in the city is home to a wide variety of water plants and animals, and provides a look into the vital wetland ecosystem. The gardens were started in the 1880s by Walter Shaw, a Civil War veteran. He purchased the land next to the Anacostia River and began to cultivate water gardens on the various ponds and marshes in the area. The first plants he brought in were water lilies form his home state of Maine, and subsequently the gardens flourished from there. When the gardens faced demolition by the government (to make room for dredging the Anacostia River) in the 1930s, Helen Shaw Fowler (Walter's daughter) fought for their ongoing existence. She finally convinced Congress to keep the gardens, and they decided to buy and preserve eight acres for $15,000. Today, many visitors enjoy the beautiful plants and animals that call the wetlands home; it is an especially popular site for bird-watchers. More »

Korean War Veterans Memorial

To remember and honor the soldiers, nursers, pilots, and volunteers who fought in the Korean War, a memorial was created and placed on the National Mall. The memorial consists of 19 statues of soldiers, of which there are one Navy, 15 Army, one Air Force, and two Marines, who are patrolling through unfamiliar territory. There is also a large granite wall depicting powerful photographic images of the war and those involved. All together there were 54,246 United States soldiers that died in the war and 8,177 that are still missing. The Korean War started in 1950, when conflicts between North and South Korea came to a head. It ended in 1953. More »

Kreeger Museum

This modern building served as a home, recital hall, and art gallery for Washington D.C. philanthropists David and Carmen Kreeger. They began collecting art they loved in 1959, and continued for the next 15 years, amassing an amazing group of notable pieces from such icons as Renoir, Monet, Chagall, Picasso, and many more. In addition to old master pieces, the couple's collection also includes impressive African art items and various Asian sculptures, which add to the depth of the museum. The Kreegers were inspired by music--a love that is reflected in some of their art and in the architecture of their home, in which they had built a Great Hall, where they hosted many concerts and performances. More »

Lafayette Square

Located just directly north of the property of the White House, Lafayette Square originally was intended to be a part of the executive grounds for the President, and was known as the "President's Park." When President Thomas Jefferson extended Pennsylvania Avenue through the grounds in 1804, it was given its own distinction as a public space, and in 1824, the park was officially renamed, Lafayette Square, after General Marquis de Lafayette, the famous French hero of the Revolutionary War. Today (partly because of its close location to the White House) you can spot a frequent number of protests and rallies held within the park. People don't just come here to protest though. The park is a beautiful greenspace in the middle of downtown with beautiful landscaping and monuments to some of the nation's great heroes including an equestrian statue of Andrew Jackson. More »

Lee-Fendall House

This mansion was built on land owned by Henry Lee, a Revolutionary War hero and father of famed Confederate Army General, Robert E. Lee. He sold the plot of land to Philip Richard Fendall, who had the house built in 1785 in an urban plantation design. Over the next 120 years, the home was occupied by about 37 members of the Lee family and one of the most powerful labor leaders in America's history, John L. Lewis. Today, visitors can wander through the restored Victorian home and surrounding award-winning gardens to get a glimpse of what life was like in the late 1800s. More »

Leesburg, Virginia

Many people mistakenly believe Leesburg was named for Virginian Confederate General Robert E. Lee, but in fact, the town's founding date of 1758 predates General Lee by about 50 years. It was, however, named after Thomas Lee, who was colonial governor of Virginia from 1749-1750 after quite a few years in local and state government. Leesburg today is a popular suburb of Washington DC and includes a nice blend of historic architecture as well as modern creature comforts. The downtown area is littered with historic buildings, many which have been converted into shops, cafes, and other boutiques. Elsewhere, the Thomas Balch History and Genealogy Library might be of interest if you have Virginia roots in your family tree--it is also an Underground Railroad research institution. The Dodona Manor is the former home of Nobel laureate and statesman George C. Marshall, who is perhaps best known for "the Marshall Plan" which provided billions in support of democracy and civil society in Eastern Europe (Marshall was also, notably, a General of the Army, a Secretary of Defense, and of course, Secretary of State). Military history buffs might like the Civil War battlefield at Balls Bluff, which was the site of a Confederate victory. More »

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is the world's largest library and houses over 100 million items, including books, maps, prints, music, manuscripts, recordings, and other historic and cultural objects. It was founded in 1800 and its original purpose was a resource for Congress--to provide them any books they would need for research or information. The Library was destroyed in 1814 when British troops set fire to the Capitol building that housed the original 3,000 volumes. Despite the setback, it wasn't long thereafter that the Library was brought back to life--a month after the fire, former President Thomas Jefferson donated his personal book collection as a replacement. Today, it has grown immensely and now serves every branch of the government, in addition to the public as a whole. Since 1870, the Library has also served as the headquarters of the American Copyright System, and therefore, it houses a copy of every single book that has ever been copyrighted in the United States. More »

Lillian & Albert Small Jewish Museum

This museum works to preserve and display the Jewish history of the Washington DC area. It is housed in the oldest synagogue in the city, which has been restored and is on the National Register of Historic Places. The building was slated to be demolished in 1969, but was saved by the Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington and was moved three blocks to rest in its current location, where the museum opened in 1975. The museum displays its collections and other exhibits, generally consisting of memorabilia, photographs, personal artifacts, and documents. Even if you're not interested in viewing the museum's contents, the synagogue is a peaceful place to stop and take a quiet rest, as it maintains its original simple design and is flooded with illuminating sunlight. More »

Lincoln Memorial

One of the most famous landmarks on the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial serves as a reminder of the dedication and passion of America's 16th president. Three years after the Lincoln Memorial Bill was signed by President Taft to designate $2 million for the construction of a memorial in 1911, construction began on the landmark. Architect Henry Bacon designed the stately structure and based it after a Greek temple, complete with 36 doric columns and an interior marble temple. Daniel Chester French designed the marble statue of Lincoln that sits inside the temple and stands at a massive height of 19-feet--but even a statue that tall is still dwarfed by the temple's 99-foot-high ceilings. The Memorial has served as a popular venue for events and activities in the past; the most famous being the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, where Martin Luther King, Jr. delivered his renowned "I Have a Dream" speech. More »

Luray Caverns

These huge underground caves will have your jaw dropping with awe and amazement. They've been in formation for over 400 million years and are even continuing to grow today, at a rate of one cubic inch every 120 years. The caves were formed ages ago by a slow, but steady process. When the ancient sea drained away from the Appalachian region, it left behind carbon dioxide that allowed lime to form inside the giant caves that were left in the landscape as a result of the shifting earth. Over time, the lime collected and formed stalactites, or the long formations hanging from the ceiling. The stalactites slowly dripped water to the floor, and stalagmites formed (the long formations growing up from the floor); when a stalactite and stalagmite grew together, pillars were formed. In this way, the caves and their striking features were fabricated, creating a popular natural attraction visited by thousands of people each year. More »

Marian Koshland Science Museum

If you love high-tech, breathtaking science then this is your spot in the Nation's capital. Recommended for ages 13 and over, the Marian Koshland Science Museum has one permanent exhibit and two others that rotate every two years, that take a closer look at the science of bacteria and diseases and the expanding matter of the universe. The Museum is named after immunologist Marian Koshland, whose breakthrough work led to behavior studies of antibodies. The museum is centrally located in northwest DC, near the Mall and MCI center. More »

Mary McLeod Bethune House

This is the former home of Mary McLeod Bethune, a civil rights leader before there was such a thing. Seeing a way out of no way, Bethune created a school for black girls in Daytona Beach, Florida in 1904, and over the next couple decades became renowned for her rigorous curriculum, largely possible due to her tireless fundraising. It would merge with a boy's school in 1923, and soon afterward became Bethune-Cookman College. She had always been active in politics, a president of the National Association of Negro Women and later of the National Council of Negro Women, which would call this house its headquarters. One Eleanor Roosevelt was so taken by Bethune that she placed her in front of her husband, President Roosevelt, who promptly brought her and other black leaders on to advise him as part of a so-called "Black Cabinet," officially named the Federal Council on Negro Affairs. FDR named her the director of the Division of Negro Affairs, as well. She lived at the house on Vermont Avenue from 1943 until her death in 1955. More »

Meridian Hill Park

This 12-acre park in the heart of Columbia Heights features landscape architect George Burnap's brilliant cascading waterfall, several notable statues, and towering pine trees. It is blessed greenery in the middle of the city which the National Park Service reports is "situated on an almost perfect north-south axis," hence the name Meridian Hill Park. In 1969, an act of Congress failed to officially change the name to Malcolm X Park, though this is sometimes the preferred name for locals. It's a great little park with especially interesting architectural details, and it is perfect for a picnic. Head down with some supplies and check out Meridian Hill. More »

Meridian International Center

The Meridian International Center is situated perfectly in Washington, DC among all the foreign embassies. The Center's goal is to promote global understanding and thinking about issues confronting our world. As a non-profit, Meridian tries to incorporate people by the teaching and sharing of the arts. Stop by for a visit and learn how the Meridian International Center is shaping the international community. More »

Mexican Cultural Institute

Originally a private residence for President Taft's secretary of the treasury, this Italian-style building served as the Mexican Embassy from 1921 to 1989. Since 1990, the embassy has used the site to promote Mexican art and culture in the nation's capital. Art galleries displaying modern Mexican art are installed throughout the beautiful interior, and colorful murals cover the staircase wall leading up to the third floor. More »

Monticello

Monticello, meaning "little mountain", was the home of the third U.S. president, Thomas Jefferson. The home was built between the years of 1769 and 1784, in a Roman neoclassicism architectural style. It was later remodeled and expanded during the years of 1796 to 1809, and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can tour the gardens, plantation grounds, and the 11,000 square foot home today, where you can see items that Jefferson invented, including a Revolving Bookstand, a polygraph (coping machine), and a Solar Microscope (that is similar to the original design). More »

Montrose Park

In the early 1800s, this land belonged to Robert Parrott, a wealthy ropemaker who didn't mind people having a picnic or playing on it. Eventually the land came under the control of a group of women who petitioned Congress to set apart some of the land for use as a public park. Today, Montrose Park is a popular place to spend an afternoon relaxing. If you desire a day of sitting back and smelling the flowers, this is the park for you. More »

Mount St. Sepulchre

This monastery is a secret love of many locals, who come here to spend a few moments in silence and reflection after too much time in the noisy city. The church and monastery blend Byzantine style with Roman architecture, and there are several shrines that are replicas of shrines in the Holy Land. When you walk through the chapels, be sure to look for the ceramic plaques that greet you in over 150 languages--including some that are no longer used today. After walking through the buildings, be sure to take time to tour the grounds, where there are plenty of serene places to sit in peace, or take photos with your family. More »

Mount Vernon

As the United States' first President, George Washington made history. To get insight into the famous man's life, take a trip to Mount Vernon to explore his historic estate. When George and his family lived here, the estate covered 8,000 acres (compared to the 500-acre plot we see today) and comprised five separate farms, complete with their own staff, buildings, livestock, etc. Today, visitors can tour the Mansion House Farm, where the Washingtons resided, with its woods, gardens, sprawling meadows, and beautiful countryside views. George crafted the estate to his liking, as it was his retreat from the stresses of political life, where he would go to relax and practice new farming techniques. Today, visitors can see the house as it was when the Washingtons lived there--it's been restored to most of its original specifications. There are also special re-enactments of certain aspects of life at Mount Vernon, such as blacksmithing and laundry, that will delight and entertain all ages. More »

Mount Zion United Methodist Church

This church, founded in 1816, is the oldest African American church in Washington DC. The original building burned in a fire in 1880 and a new church was constructed and finished in 1884. Through its history, Mt. Zion not only served as a spiritual institution for its members, but also as an educational outpost and social support organization. Mt. Zion was a stop on the Underground Railroad, so it quickly became a beacon of support and aid for African Americans in the community. The Community Center building is located behind the church, and is a good stop for a local history lesson, as it houses old photographs, records, artifacts, and other documents that trace the history of the area's African American population. More »

National Air and Space Museum

The sky is the limit at the National Air and Space Museum located on the National Mall. Featuring planes and rockets that come from the beginning of the flight of man to the deployment of the Space Age, the National Air and Space Museum covers the incredible history of man's achievements in the air. See the Wright brothers' Flyer and Charles Lindbergh's famed Spirit of St. Louis, which he used to be the first man to fly a transatlantic flight solo and without stopping. Or set your sights for the stars, where you'll find a number of rockets and satellites deployed into space, including the command module of the Apollo 11 mission to the moon, where Neil Armstrong became the first man to ever land on the moon. You can even see and touch a moon rock that was brought back from one of the Apollo missions. Through the museum's diverse array of items like planes from World War II and a model of Star Trek's Enterprise, the museum documents man's longstanding devotion to seeing man's wildest imagination come to life. More »

National Aquarium

As the nation's oldest aquarium, you might imagine an enormous building dedicated to showing exotic fish, wild sea life, and endangered aquatic species. Though there are over 1,000 species of fish, alligators, turtles, and other sea creatures to see, you will have to visit the Department of Commerce to see any marine creatures. More specifically, you will have to visit the basement of the DOC, where the National Aquarium has been located since the 1920s. The Aquarium first started in Woods Hole Massachusetts, in 1873, but moved to Washington DC later that year, and is a great place to spend a couple of hours with your children. More »

National Archives

In the waning days of his presidency in 1933, Herbert Hoover laid the cornerstone to the National Archives building, saying it was destined to be a "temple of our history." John Russell Pope's neoclassical architectural design belies what lies inside--a temple, to be sure, however, the high technology that has been developed to preserve and protect our nation's most precious documents. In the grand rotunda which houses the so-called "Charters of Freedom," the original Declaration of Independence, Constitution, and Bill of Rights are all displayed in hermetically sealed cases filled with helium to preserve them while still making them available for public viewing. The displays are raised for the throngs of tourists who have come to see these documents and then lowered further into a fireproof, bombproof, everything-proof holding bay until the next day. The Archives are also home to publicly available documents and artifacts from other eras in American history, which, if you're so inclined, you can request access to look over. There is more here than just the "big three" so, despite the crowds, it's well worth the trip. More »

National Building Museum

This elegant building houses a museum that tells the story of US architecture, design, urban planning, and engineering. In addition to showcasing an impressive collection of historical artifacts and models, the building itself is a sight to see. It was constructed in the late 1800s and is considered one of the finest examples of public architecture in the country. The building originally served two purposes--to house the US Pension Bureau and to serve as a social gathering place and venue for political functions and events. It was modeled after Roman palaces, complete with an open gallery, central hall, and Corinthian columns that give it an open-air, yet still very stately, feeling. Today, it is still used as a venue for events, as well as an interactive architectural museum that educates thousands of visitors each year. More »

National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art has its origins in the past-time of American businessman and philanthropist Andrew W. Mellon, who amassed a huge collection of European and American art. Upon his death in 1937, his collection was donated to the United States government, and was accepted on behalf of the American people by a joint act of Congress, which also secured a location for the National Gallery on the National Mall. Architect John Russell Pope, also notable for his work on the Jefferson Memorial across the Mall, designed the neoclassical building that would open as the National Gallery of Art in 1941. In 1978, with the continued support of the Mellon family, an additional building was constructed, the work of renowned architect I.M. Pei. The Russell Pope-designed West wing of the National Gallery houses art works from the Medieval period through the late-19th century, while the Pei-designed East gallery holds contemporary art from the 20th century. The West gallery includes famed European masters including da Vinci, Vermeer, Rubens, and Impressionists Monet and and Van Gogh, while the East features modern Cubists such as Picasso and modern artists like Jackson Pollock and Andy Warhol. It's a thoroughly great collection, one of the world's most complete, and certainly worth a visit for the architecture alone, let alone all the famous works and artists held inside. More »

National Geographic Museum

Enjoy all aspects of science here, from archaeological digs to societal research to cultural photography. Visit the museum to see amazing exhibits, such as the famous archaeological gems--the Chinese terra-cotta warriors, or the "Human Footprint" exhibit that documents human consumption from birth to death. The exhibits and collections here showcase the cutting edge of cultural and natural sciences studies, adventures, and research, making the museum an important educational gem as it traces not only historic trends and issues, but contemporary ones as well. If you're at all interested in the many faces of our earth, this museum is a must-see. More »

National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial

In 1991, Congress signed an act to create a memorial honoring local, state, and federal police offers who died in the line of duty. The memorial sits on a three-acre park and has reflecting pool with plenty of space around it to sit. Of the 14,000 plus names transcribed on the wall, you can see names that date back to 1794, when the first death of an officer was recorded, to the present day. More »

National Mall

This wide open space is home to many of our nation's most famous museums and memorials, including the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, some of the Smithsonian museums, and others. It covers the ground from the Lincoln Memorial to the Capitol building and provides a nice grassy, parklike area for strolling, picnicking, jogging, or other outdoor activities. One activity that has historically popular here is protesting; since the mall is a open expanse, it is the perfect locale for large groups of people to gather and rally. Some of the most memorable gatherings here have been the Million Man March, the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom, and the Vietnam War Moratorium Rally. More »

National Museum of African Art

This museum first opened it's doors in 1964 and joined with the Smithsonian Institute in 1979. It houses one of most extensive collections of African art and cultural exhibits in the country. You can see various artworks, musical instruments, weapons, ceramics, and ceremonial objects made and used in Africa. To celebrate and educate the public on the various cultures within Africa, the museum has created several interactive exhibits, so be sure to bring your children along, as there are several things they'll want to see. More »

National Museum of American History

This museum offers an all-encompassing collection of American memorabilia and historic artifacts. Some of the highlights you'll see here range from the famous Star-spangled Banner that inspired Francis Scott Key to write our country's national anthem to the Greensboro, NC all white lunch counter that hosted four brave African American students wanting to be served lunch--an act that was integral in sparking the desegregation of our country in the 1960s. Visitors will be amazed at the large collection here, comprising over 3 million objects and items that span centuries of America's history. Stop by to get a glimpse into the past, learn about what shaped our present, and be amazed that you're looking at actual famous objects like Lincoln's top hat and the lovable childhood puppet Kermit the Frog. More »

National Museum of Natural History

125 million specimens are artifacts are held here at this Smithsonian museum, the largest such collection anywhere in the world. The focus is the rather broad topic of the history of the physical world in which we live, housed in a neoclassical 1910 building designed by the architectural firm Hornblower & Marshall, whose other notable projects include several mansions in DC including the Russian Consulate building and the Custom House in Baltimore. The museum uses both traditional exhibition layouts as in the renowned Dinosaur Hall, but also more modern, "hands-on" exhibitions as in the Discovery Hall and Hall of Mammals. Perhaps the most famous exhibition is the highly trafficked Hall of Gems, which includes the supposedly cursed Hope Diamond in its stead. An IMAX theatre is located on-site as well, which is always a great way to beat the heat and humidity of a DC summer. A great place to learn and explore the natural beauty of Earth's flora and fauna. More »

National Museum of the American Indian

The deep history of the United States is preceded by the histories of the hundreds of tribal nations of America's Native peoples. A long history and cultural tradition of Native peoples is preserved at the National Museum of the American Indian. The museum was created in 1989 through an Act of Congress, which culminated in the opening of three centers around the east coast: one in New York City, a research facility in Suitland, Maryland, and the museum on the National Mall in Washington DC. This museum located on the Mall is designed to reflect some of the native architecture of the Southwest and the naturalistic influences of the sandstone. Inside the museum you'll find both permanent and temporary exhibits containing various artifacts, art, and other remnants of American Indian culture. Inside, circular exhibits are a prevalent fixture to the aesthetic feel of the museum in which the three permanent exhibit themes of Our Universes, Our Peoples, and Our Lives are presented. Not only is the museum concerned with the preservation and understanding of American Indian culture, but also a contemporary look at where we are today and research goes into the core values of the museum. More »

National Museum of Women in the Arts

When Wallace and Wilhelmina Holladay recognized there was an under-representation of female artists in history books and museums, they started collecting works of art made by women, from both the famous and unknown. Their collection grew to over 3,500 paintings, decorative arts, sculptures, and drawings. They started the museum in 1981, operating out of various locations, before moving to a permanent location in 1987. The collections and exhibits include art that ranges from the 16th century to the present day. You can see works by Frida Khalo, Georgia O'Keeffe, Magdalena Abakanowicz, Mary Cassatt, and other artists who have been brought to the public eye because of this museum and its mission to support women in society. More »

National Portrait Gallery

Famous Americans are immortalized in portrait form at this gallery. Its walls and display cases are filled with the faces of such memorable people as George Washington, Martin Luther King Jr., Rosa Parks, and Marilyn Monroe. The collection here comprises over 20,000 portraits, prints, photographs, and drawings; for those interested in the people behind America's cultural history, this gallery has plenty to offer. In addition to permanent collections, the museum houses rotating exhibits that spotlight various artists and their work. Be sure to stop by the glass-ceilinged courtyard at the center of the building--it's a light-filled space that's perfect for relaxing and taking a break from wandering the Gallery; it also is a popular venue for events and festivals. More »

National Postal Museum

Mail wasn't always able to be delivered over night! This museum takes you back to the early 1800s, when the need for communication between political and military forces was in dire need. From there you'll learn about the Pony Express, Mail by Rail, air transport, and more. Along with learning the history of postal service, you can view the museum's collection of stamps, which should impress you considering you are at the post office. More »

National Theatre

Operating since 1835, the National Theatre is often referred to as the "Theater of Presidents." World-famous plays and musicals are performed here every year. Call or check the local newspapers for current theater performances and times. More »

National World War II Memorial

Designed by architect Friedrich St. Florian and dedicated in May 2004, this memorial honors the sacrifices of the 400,000 Americans who died and the 16 million who served during World War II. About 17 years in the making, the memorial depicts 56 pillars from all the United States and territories which sent soldiers to the war effort, a central rool and fountain arrangement, quotations from Allied leaders, and a wall with 4,000 gold stars, each intended to represent 100 military deaths. St. Florian told NPR upon the grand opening, "This is about an entire nation, a generation of Americans, that at one moment stood up on a global scale to defend our principles and ideals and in so doing actually changed the course of history." It sits between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument just beyond the Reflecting Pool on the National Mall. The announcement stone quote is particularly fitting: "Here in the Presence of Washington and Lincoln, One the Eighteenth Century Father and the Other the Nineteenth Century Preserver of our Nation, We Honor Those Twentieth Century Americans Who Took Up the Struggle During the Second World War and Made the Sacrifices to Perpetuate the Gift Our Forefathers Entrusted to Us: A Nation Conceived in Liberty and Justice." It gets crowded in the summer, so go in the evening if you'd prefer to avoid the masses. More »

National Zoo

This zoo was started by an Act of Congress in 1889, when the government recognized there was valuable information to be discovered in studying animals. The government also felt there was a void in recreational space for the public and saw the zoo as a place to gather. Today, the National Zoological Park has over 2000 specimens that range from the petite chinchilla, to the larger than life elephant, to the mid sized cheetah. This is quite possibly one of the best zoos in the country, as it not only offers a variety of animals and exhibits to explore, it also educates visitors on what they can do to make sure these creatures continue to live on earth. A large percentage of the animals here are endangered species, so be sure to check them out and take action into preserving their existence. More »

Naval Observatory

Established in 1830 as the Department of Charts and Instruments to assist the Navy with its marine navigation by precisely charting the skies above, which allowed them to measure the time and other coordinates very exactly. Such as it was, it became the Naval Observatory later in the 19th century, and it remains an important astronomical observatory and the official time-keeper of the United States government. In 1974, the house that was formerly the residence of the superintendent of the Naval Observatory was officially designated by Congress to be the residence of the Vice President, and since, Walter Mondale, George H. W. Bush, Dan Quayle, Al Gore, and Dick Cheney have all lived there. Tours of the Observatory (but not the VP's home, for obvious security concerns) are offered on Monday evenings (federal holidays excepted) beginning at 8:30pm and take note, reservations are required; book either over the phone through the Public Affairs office at 202-762-1489 or through the online request form on the Web site. More »

Oak Hill Cemetery

Oak Hill Cemetery is often admired by architecture enthusiasts for its Gothic Revival Architecture. The chapel on the cemetery grounds was built in 1850 and measures only 23 by 41 feet with a steeply pitched roof, buttresses, and pointed arched windows. Other landmarks on the grounds include the Van Ness Mausoleum and the monument to E.M. Stanton. More »

Oatlands Plantation

It was George Carter, great grandson of the famous Virginia plantation owner, "King" Carter, who designed and built this mansion. Beginning with a Federal style look in 1804, the style was changed to Greek Revival in 1830. Carter designed the original garden, and later 20th century occupants added a tea house, bowling green, reflecting pool, and rose garden. The estate, with its tall white pillars and acres of grounds, looks the part of a Southern plantation, though today Oatlands is a property of the National Trust for Historic Preservation. More »

Old Post Office Pavilion

Built in 1889, this post office turned high-end shopping center, was considered the first skyscraper in DC. It was designed in a Richardsonian Romanesque style, after the architect of the Trinity Church in Boston, Henry Hobson Richardson. Today, the Pavilion is one of DC's top eight attractions to see. Along with shopping in specialty boutique shops, you can find fine international cuisine and views from the top that are worth capturing on your camera. More »

Old Presbyterian Meeting House

First organized in 1772, this congregation has its roots in the forces that drove the American Revolution and the extension to the New World itself: the freedom to practice their religion. Colonial Virginians were obliged to observe under the auspices of the Church of England, yet as Calvinists and Presbyterians, they were compelled to observe in their homes during the 1760s. By the time the seeds of revolution percolated throughout the colonies, they'd begun to build a physical church, of which the Old Presbyterian Meeting House is the end result. Outside in the garden, lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier of the American Revolution. After George Washington's death in December of 1799, Congressman Henry Lee III (who served under Washington in the Continental Army and also fathered a young man named Robert E. Lee) came to the church and famously eulogized Washington with his memorable words, "First in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen." Hard to pass up the opportunity to see this place first hand. More »

Old Stone House

True to its name, this is an old stone house that sits in the center of bustling Georgetown. It is historically significant because it is the oldest structure on its original lot in our nation's capital. The house has served various functions over its lifetime, including a paint shop, clock store, and residence. Today it serves as a well-preserved historical reminder of pre-Revolutionary architecture. The "America's National Parks" bookstore is housed here, making the Old Stone House a great place to visit to pick up both a history lesson and a souvenir or gift. More »

Old Town Alexandria

As you walk the cobblestone streets around Old Town Alexandria, know that the Founding Fathers used to walk them too. George Washington and Robert E. Lee used to pray over at Christ Church on Washington Street. The Market Square area was a hotbed of commerce and indeed a slave market, where humans were bought, sold, and then shipped away to plantations. Today, the Market Square is home to lots of restaurants, bars, and boutiques. History abounds in this quaint little area just off the west bank of the Potomac. It's perfect to get a sense of Colonial-era architecture, but has also been re-invigorated as a hip area with lots of nightlife. More »

Peace Monument

This 44-foot-high monument is located in the circle on the western edge of the Capitol grounds, where Pennsylvania Avenue and First Street NW meet. The monument holds several figures: on top of the monument are two female statues representing Grief and History; below those figures, on the side of the monument facing away from the Capitol is a life-size female figure representing Victory, with the infant Mars, the god of war, and the infant Neptune, the god of the sea, at her feet. On the side of the memorial facing the Capitol is the female figure embodying Peace. The monument was erected 1877-1878 to honor those in the navy who died at sea during the Civil War. More »

Penn Quarter

Penn Quarter is DC's newest hip area for restaurants, nightclubs, brew pubs, and bars. The Quarter used to be a neglected part of town, but began to be revitalized in the 1980s, largely due to the efforts of the Pennsylvania Avenue Development Corporation. Today, Penn Quarter is known for its great galleries, bookstores, theaters, and spas and is a popular residential area for young professionals. Beware that the Penn Quarter can get pretty packed on nights when there are events at the nearby MCI Center. Many think that the Penn Quarter is not for the very young, however, it is a great place to take the family for dinner and to walk around. More »

Pershing Park Ice Rink

With the season also comes the popular Pershing Park Ice Rink, located right in the heart of the festivities of the nation's capital. From December onwards through the winter, Pershing Park Ice Rink is where you'll see children and families join at the rink for a glide through the frosty air. Located 2 blocks from the White House on Pennsylvania Ave and the Ellipse (where the National Christmas Tree and Pageant of Peace are located during the holiday season), Pershing Park Ice Rink is the perfect place to bring the family down and enjoy the winter season together. At the rink there are metal "walkers" for those beginners who need a little help on the ice, and stop off inside the building if you get a little cold to warm up. More »

Petersen House

This former boarding house sits across the street from the famed Ford Theatre, where former President Abraham Lincoln was shot on the evening of April 14, 1865. Following the shot, the President was carried out of the theatre, taken into William Petersen's boarding house, and laid down on a bed where he spent his last few hours. Today, the house is preserved to look as it did when Lincoln was brought there, complete with period furniture, the bed and original bedding he rested on, and the restored front parlor where Mary Todd Lincoln and her son waited in anguish as the President lay dying in the next room. The house is now maintained by the National Parks Service, and there are park rangers on site who are happy to answer questions and give brief, informative talks. More »

Phillips Collection

The Phillips Collection is truly a remarkable gift to society. Located in the former home of Marjorie and Duncan Phillips, the gallery is collection of primarily modern and impressionist art collected by the two over the years. Opened in 1921, the museum was opened for the community to help spread the appreciation and the value of art and particularly modern art. Duncan Phillips was the grandson of James Laughlin, a banker and co-founder of the Jones and Laughlin Steel Company of Pittsburgh, and Marjorie Duncan was an artist that Duncan met back in 1920, one year before they married and opened the museum together. The museum offers one of the most intimate looks through the 2,500 piece collection at some of the great American and international artists of the time, including Pierre-Auguste Renoir's famous painting, Luncheon of the Boating Party. In Phillips' own words, he wanted to present the museum "as a memorial, a beneficent force in the community where I live, a joy-giving, life-enhancing influence, assisting people to see beautifully as true artists see." More »

Pope John Paul II Cultural Center

The Pope John Paul II Cultural Center combines faith with cutting edge technology to encourage visitors to explore their own faith and challenges that they face in everyday life. Located in the northern part of DC, the first thing visitors notice is the striking architectural presence of the building with the wing-shaped roof that appears suspended over the building. The interactive exhibits take an informative look at the history of the catholic church and the papacy and the futures issues and direction of the Catholic church. Visitors will tour through the Gallery of Faith, Gallery of Wonder, Gallery of Community, the and Gallery of Imagination as they continue their exploration of faith. During different parts of the center, people can compose a testimonial via a computer, videotape, or audio recording to either share with others or to remain private. Since its opening in 2001, millions of visitors have flocked to the center to personally experience the exploration of faith. More »

Pope-Leighey House

One of the most famous architects of the 20th century, Frank Loyd Wright, designed this house and it's furniture in 1941. The house was originally built for Loren Pope, whose wife and child lived with him in it until 1946. The house sold for $17,000 to Robert and Marjorie Leighey, a couple who would truly appreciate the functionable, modest-sized family home. The home and it's furniture were moved from Falls Church, Virgina to Woodlawn, Virgina because Interstate 66 was on a collision course with the property. To have the house moved and safeguarded, the Leighey's donated it to the National Trust for Historic Preservation. More »

Potomac Overlook Regional Park

Located in the DC suburb of Arlington, this park is a great place to get away from the city for a little while. Its 70-plus acres are full of things to do, from its network of hiking trail, to its "interpretative garden" of herbs and veggies, native plants, and other greenery, to its nature center with live animal exhibits and educational programs, there is a great many things to see and do. Some people can't be away from open space for extended periods of time, so if you find yourself in such a camp, alleviate the burden and head to Potomac Overlook. More »

Potomac Park

Potomac Park is a 720-acre extension of the National Mall. The Potomac River borders the park along its west and south sides. Park land curls around the Tidal Basin, encompassing Constitution Gardens, thousands of cherry blossom trees, the Washington Monument, the war memorials, and the Lincoln, Jefferson, and FDR memorials. At the tip of East Potomac Park is Hains Point, which offers tennis courts, picnic grounds, and a golf course. More »

Prospect House

Like its neighbor, Halcyon House, Prospect House is a private home not open to public tours, but whose exterior is fully viewable. The house dates from 1788 when Revolutionary War hero and wealthy tobacco merchant James Maccubbin Lingan built it. A man named John Templeman bought the house in the 1790s, and welcomed President John Adams here in 1800. In more recent times, President Harry Truman's secretary of defense, James E. Forrestal, lived in the house and often entertained foreign dignitaries here. More »

Renwick Gallery

Built in 1859, as a place for William Wilson Corcoran to store his extensive art collection, the Renwick Gallery was the first art museum in DC. Although what became known as the Corcoran Gallery outgrew the space and moved its collections from Andy Warhol, Monet, Picasso, and other world-renowned artists to another location, you can still expect to see American masterpieces. The gallery now houses art from the American Craft and Decorative Arts genres, which includes photography, paintings, pieces of furniture, and sculptures. More »

River Farm

River Farm Garden Park dates back to early 1654 when 1,800 acres of land was named Piscataway Neck under the ownership of the Giles family. When the land was inherited by William Clifton in 1739, the land became a popular causeway as a ferry crossing point from the renamed Clifton's neck to Broad Creek. Facing bankruptcy issues, a gentleman farmer by the name of George Washington approached Clifton with the intention of buying the land from him. He did, and in 1760 the 1,800 acre farm was renamed River Farm Garden Park. Washington in addition to being a prominent political leader and general, was also a well-practiced horticulturist and the farm reflects this well with remnants of black walnut, Kentucky coffee tree, and Osage orange. However, Washington did not spend a lot of time on his new property preferring to live at his estate on Mount Vernon, and he opted to rent the property out instead. One of the farm's tenants was Tobias Lear, Washington's personal secretary and right-hand man, who he gave the property lease as a wedding present for marrying his niece and widow of his nephew George Fayette Washington. Today only 27 acres of the original deed remains, but the land is home to the American Horticultural Society (AHS) that maintains the grounds and sees to it that it reflects America's first father well. Guests can see some of the magnanimous gardens set up by the AHS, and even rarities such as the old Osage tree that dates back nearly 250 years to the time that Washington first laid eyes on River Farm. More »

Robert A. Taft Memorial

One of the newer monuments on the Capitol grounds, this memorial to Senator Robert A. Taft was dedicated in 1959. Located north of the Capitol, on Constitution Avenue between New Jersey Avenue and First Street NW, the memorial includes a 10-foot bronze statue of Taft and a Tennessee marble tower. Taft's father, William Howard Taft, was president of the United States; Robert Taft was a senator representing Ohio from 1938 to 1953. The tower holds 27 bells, which play automatically to strike the house and sound on the quarter hour. More »

Rock Creek Park

Rock Creek Park is a huge forest in the middle of the nation's capital. In a city of concrete and acronyms, this park is well-worn by locals for its biking, hiking, and running trails and blessed greenery. It stands apart from other parks in that there are things like a horse riding center, a planetarium, and even a tennis center (which hosts the Legg Mason Classic every summer). In addition, there is Battleground National Cemetery and a working gristmill at Peirce Mill. You can drive through the park along Beach Drive, if you wish, but it's also great fun to descend into this thick forest and then emerge back into the urban jungle of DC. More »

Ronald Reagan Building

Inside the very very big Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center is the very very small Washington, DC, Visitor Information Center. Here you can ask questions of staff, stock up on brochures, book a hotel room, get directions, buy tickets to tours and events, use multilingual kiosks, and buy souvenirs. Run by the DC Chamber of Commerce, this is really the only conveniently located, general information center in the city. More »

S. Dillon Ripley Center

This Quonset hut-shaped building topped with a copper dome sits between the Smithsonian Information Center (the Castle) and the Freer Gallery, on Jefferson Drive. As soon as you enter, you proceed downstairs to the International Gallery, where rotating exhibits display works from various Smithsonian museums, probably most often from the National Portrait Gallery. The Ripley Center is also the location of Discovery Theater, the children's live performing arts program, until the renovation of the Smithsonian's Arts and Industries Building is complete--many years off. More »

Sewall-Belmont House

The Sewall-Belmont House has a rich and powerful history to share with the public. It is believed that certain parts of the house were built in 1750, making it one of the oldest buildings on Capitol Hill. The house and its residents played a significant roll in U.S. history, including being the location where the Louisiana Purchase was drafted in the early 1800s. It survived damage from a fire during the War of 1812 and in 1927 became the official location for the National Women's Party. Women would meet here to discuss women's rights and eventually draft an amendment that would allow women the right to vote. You can see historic memorabilia from the women's suffrage, including parade and picketing banners, scrapbooks that detail important events, and information on Alice Paul, a revolutionary woman who had the strength to change the role of women in the United States. More »

Shenandoah National Park

One of the most famous national parks in the United States is Shenandoah National Park, located about two hours outside of the heart of DC. There are a variety of things to see and do here, including hiking on 101 miles of the historic Appalachian Trail. Altogether, there are over 500 miles of trails to explore in the park. Some take you to scenic overlooks of the Shenandoah Valley that lies to the west, and some take you to waterfalls and open meadows. Even if you don't like to hike, consider taking a Sunday afternoon car ride up Skyline Drive, the main road through the park. The oak trees and hardwood forests are spectacular to drive under in the fall and there are plenty of overlooks where you can stop and take pictures. This area is both beautiful and enjoyable all year round, so pack a picnic, bring the camera, and enjoy the natural scenery. More »

Sheridan Statue

Anchoring Sheridan Circle as you proceed northwest up Massachusetts Avenue, is an equestrian statue of Governor Philip H. Sheridan, who fought ferociously in the Civil War and in the western Indian wars. As noteworthy as the statue is, its sculptor (Gutzon Borglum) has a more famous accomplishment: Mount Rushmore. The grand buildings surrounding the circle are the embassies of Turkey, Romania, and Pakistan. More »

Sir Winston Churchill Statue

This nine-foot-high bronze statue of world leader and British prime minister during World War II, Sir Winston Churchill, stands in front of the British Embassy, on Embassy Row. He holds his trademark cigar in one hand and flashes the "V" for victory sign with the other. The statue, designed by William McVey, was dedicated in 1966, on the third anniversary of Churchill's honorary U.S. citizenship. More »

Sixth & I Historic Synagogue

The First Hebrew Congregation was founded in 1852. The congregation built one synagogue, outgrew it, than constructed a new one at this location in 1908. When the congregation again outgrew its sanctuary, it built a new and bigger one uptown. The African Methodist Episcopal Church took over this space. When that church moved to the Maryland suburbs, DC's Jewish Historical Society re-acquired this building, restored the synagogue to its original state, and rededicated it in April 2004. Today the building at Sixth and I streets NW operates as an active synagogue and museum for exhibits on Jewish history and culture. More »

Smithsonian American Art Museum

The Smithsonian American Art Museum is the country's oldest repository of American art. After being closed for 6 years, the museum re-opened in the same historic location, the 1840 building that once housed the US Patent Office, as well as other federal offices. The structure has been grandly renovated. The museum's collections range from folk art to samplers to 20th century abstract paintings. More »

Smithsonian Information Center

The 1855 red sandstone structure looks like a castle, hence its nickname "the castle". It functions as information-central for the Smithsonian Institution's 17 DC-based museums, the National Zoo, and two New York-based museums. Opening before the museums, the Castle gives visitors ample time to research their museum tours before heading out to explore. The Center offers an orientation video, well-informed staff, a calendar of daily events, tons of brochures, and multilingual assistance. There are always friendly museum staff on hand to answer any questions you may have or give directions to specific locations. More »

Spanish Steps

At the end of a cul de sac on 22nd Street in a neighborhood of old houses and embassies lies this tree-shaded stairway built of granite, brick, and concrete, that leads to the "second floor" of 22nd Street as it continues. The stairway once led to an 18th century manor named "Kalorama," which is Greek for "beautiful view." Constructed in 1911-1912, the lion's head fountain at the top operates only some of the time. More »

St. John's Church

Since it was built in 1815, St. John's Church has been a place where church and state have converged together. Every American president since then has either regularly attended or made an occasional visit to the church for Sunday services. It's because of this distinction that the church is primarily known as the "The Church of the Presidents." Located just a short distance away from the White House, it was an easy church for the President to attend, and subsequently the church has recognized Pew 54 as the "President's Pew," reserved for their attendance. The church is built in the vision of Washington's famous architect, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who was also responsible for the renovations made to both the U.S. Capital and the White House. Another distinct aspect of the church is the 1,000 pound bell hanging in the bell-tower that was created by Joseph Revere, Revolutionary forefather Paul Revere's son. The bell is still in use today, and when paired with the beautiful stain glass windows of the church, make a striking landmark of Washington's continuing history. More »

Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center

In the 1980's the Smithsonian's National Air and Space Museum recognized it had a 'space' problem, but this space problem didn't deal with stars and planets. Instead, the Smithsonian needed a new location to put its larger exhibits, such as the space shuttle Enterprise and the Lockheed SR-71 Blackbird. By 2003, the Smithsonian completed construction of a massive new building and museum near Washington Dulles International Airport with the financial help of Steven F. Udvar-Hazy. It's truly a great museum and a must-see if you are traveling in or out of Dulles. More »

Summer House

Set into the hillside of the Capitol's west front lawn is this hexagonally shaped, open-sided shelter constructed in 1881 for the purpose of giving visitors a place to rest. Landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted designed it. Stone benches inside the structure can seat 22 people. The benches are shaded and look through doorways to views of the Capitol, across the west lawn to the National Mall, and of hedges. The Summer House is situated along the paths that lead from Pennsylvania Avenue to the Senate side of the Capitol. More »

Supreme Court of the United States

This stately white building houses one of the most vital institutions of justice in the country--the United States Supreme Court. The Court didn't have a building of its own until 1935, when Chief Justice (and former President) William Howard Taft convinced Congress to construct a permanent home for the Supreme Court. The building today is open to the public, and visitors can choose to watch a short visitors' film and walk around the building or attend a Supreme Court hearing in the Courtroom (if they're lucky and are able to get in). It's worth it to take a walk around this magnificent building, even just to admire the smooth marble construction, various statues and wood carvings, and majestic Great Hall. More »

The Athenaeum

This Greek Revival structure on a side street in Old Town Alexandria is fronted by thick columns and a porticoed entrance. It dates from 1851 and has served as a bank, hospital, medicine warehouse, and church in its nearly 160 years. Today the Athenaeum is headquarters for the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association and its hall's main purpose is as an art gallery for local artists. More »

The Islamic Center

When this Islamic mosque first opened its doors to the public in 1957, it was the largest mosque in America and Europe. The need for a Muslim place of worship was recognized when Münir Ertegün, the Turkish ambassador for the United States, died in 1944. Because there was no mosque in the States, Ertegün could not have a proper Muslim burial. Today, the mosque is open to all, both Muslims and non-Muslims, to come and pray, worship, or tour the facilities. You can sit in on free seminars, educational sessions, and Arabic lessons, which cater to all ages and language levels. More »

The Lyceum

The Lyceum was built in 1839, after the town of Alexandria desired to have a place where the public could gather. The local townspeople would come here to listen to lectures, to learn about science, and to have a silent place to collect their thoughts. In its 170 plus years of existence, the Lyceum has been used as a hospital during the Civil War, as a private residence, as an office, and now it operates as a historical museum. The museum's collection and exhibits are mainly comprised of Alexandria's history, including 18th and 19th century silver made by a local silversmith, and a collection of artifacts that tell you how the town came to be and what has happened here. More »

The Textile Museum

George Hewitt Myers began collecting textiles in 1896 when he purchased his first oriental rug for his dorm room at Yale University. It would bloom a hobby that would eventually grow into the Textile Museum, when Myers donated his collection and founded the museum in 1925. Originally some 275 rugs and other textiles, the Textile Museum today has over 17,000 artifacts in its stead, housed in two adjacent homes near Dupont Circle. One of the homes was built by John Russell Pope for Myers, the renowned DC architect famous for his work on the House of the Temple, the Jefferson Memorial, and the West gallery of the National Gallery of Art. It's a niche art and therefore may not appeal to everyone, but the creation of elaborate art onto tapestries and textiles is indeed a creative passion of many, and offers an opportunity to learn about the craft for the uninitiated. More »

Theodore Roosevelt Island

To honor our nation's 26th president, Theodore Roosevelt, the Theodore Roosevelt Memorial Association purchased 88 acres of land on a little island in the city. Much of the island is wooded and wild, allowing a quick escape to nature while in the heart of downtown. That is exactly what Mr. Roosevelt would have wanted, as he was a man and a leader dedicated to conservation. The island can be accessed via a small footbridge crossing over the Potomac River, on the Virgina side. Along with viewing wildlife, you'll see a statue of Mr. Roosevelt and two fountains. More »

Thomas Jefferson Memorial

The simple yet elegant Thomas Jefferson Memorial recognizes both the life and words of a man ingrained in the values of the nation founded through the Revolutionary War. Reminiscent of his beloved home at Monticello, the structure is held up by neo-classic columns holding up a domed roof and fronted with a simple portico. Inside a simple 19-foot statue of the Nation's third President stands in the middle, while surrounding him are are the open columns. Inside you can find some of Jefferson's most inspirational words etched into the sides, most famously from the Declaration of Independence that he authored in 1776. One of the best views of the city can be found here during the spring blossom of the cherry trees next to the Potomac and across the Tidal Basin where the White House and the Washington Monument are directly in line with the Jefferson Monument. More »

Torpedo Factory Art Center

It seems fitting that this former torpedo factory located here on the Potomac River would be converted into an art center for artists' galleries. Following the abrupt end to World War II, this former torpedo factory was used as a storage building for many works of art, dinosaur bones, and German war films. The building was built following World War I and was an active center for the building and maintaining sea and air-to-sea torpedoes. In 1969, the City of Alexandria came up with the idea of using the buildings as an active public space for the community. It wasn't until several years later that the plan was approved and the building underwent renovation. Local artist volunteers and city personnel worked to gut the building and create spaces for the artist studios. The artists descended on the center almost immediately despite poor heating and cooling, and the center quickly became one of the largest and most successful art centers in the country. More »

Tudor Place

The stately Tudor Place was once the home of former President George Washington (and his wife, Martha's) granddaughter, Martha Custis Peter. It was designed by Capitol building architect Dr. William Thornton in a neoclassical style, with features such as a large front porch and columns. Inside, visitors are treated to a marvelous collection of items owned by George and Martha Washington, including pieces of silver, porcelain, jewelery, paintings, and other pieces. Tudor Place also hosts various workshops, kids' programs, and summer history weeks that both entertain and educate locals and visitors throughout the year. More »

U Street Corridor

U Street Corridor is a historically African-American neighborhood whose roots are steeped in jazz. This is where Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and their ilk performed and hung out. Today this area, which stretches approximately from 9th street on the east to 18th street on the west, is revitalized with many bars, hip shops, and nightclubs that feature jazz, hip-hop, rock, and other sounds of music. DC's 20-somethings like to come here. More »

U.S. Botanic Garden

This garden presents a spectacular display of plants from around the world. The gigantic (and recently renovated) complex houses about 26,000 plants that are used for display, study, research, and exchange with other gardens. A visit to the garden is a visit to various ecosystems across the globe, including a subtropical jungle, a room full of exotic orchids, a primeval garden, a spotlight on Hawaii, and many more. As you're wandering around, be sure to walk across the street to the garden annex, Bartholdi Park. It's a great place to let the kids run around, enjoy fountains and sculptures, and of course take in the beautiful flowers and other outdoor plants. Also, stop by the National Garden to tour the beautifully designed and organized Rose Garden, the exotic Butterfly Garden, the Regional Garden that features plants from the mid-Atlantic area, and the First Ladies Garden that commemorates the country's First Ladies and their service. More »

U.S. Capitol

This stately building sits on the east end of the National Mall and is the home of the House of Representatives and of the Senate. The building is centered around a 180-foot dome, with a wing on either side--the south wing is home to the House of Representatives, and the north wing houses the Senate. The first floor is used mostly for committee rooms, the second floor houses the Chambers for the House and the Senate, and the third floor is home to the "galleries" where visitors can go to watch the House and Senate when they're in session. The capitol also contains some great artwork, such as the murals (or "Brumidi Corridors", named after their artist, Constantino Brumidi) depicting notable aspects of American History. Another unique art installation is the National Statuary Hall Collection, which comprises two statues from each state that depict notable figures in the states' histories. More »

U.S. Navy Memorial

Commemorating the servicemen that have served or are actively serving the US Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and the Merchant Marine, the U.S. Navy Memorial depicts moments of bravery and valor. The memorial's centerpiece is the statue, The Lone Sailor who is standing on a circular map of the globe. The map is surrounded by a circular colonnade, and bronze panels depict images of servicemen. The memorial took nearly 10 years to complete from the early stages into completion when it was dedicated to the public in 1987. On one end of the plaza, naval flags are displayed on mock masts reminiscent of the old naval ships of the nineteenth century. On a nearby wall, quotes taken from servicemen decorate the memorial. A nearby museum provides a more in-depth look at the Naval branch where you can watch short videos about specific groups within the branch such as the Blue Angels. More »

Ulysses S. Grant Memorial

Commissioned in 1902, the Ulysses S. Grant Memorial was the largest memorial to date that Congress had ever pursued. The memorial is basically divided into three sections. In the center, an equestrian statue of Grant gazing calmly toward the Lincoln Memorial stands on a marble pedestal 22 1/2-feet high. The entire memorial rests on a marble platform stretched 252 feet (77m) long and 71 feet (22m) wide. Flanked on either side are wildly intricate and lifelike representations of fighting Union Artillery and Cavalry groups. In the middle Grant sits on a horse above the fighting surrounded by four lions in repose as they protect the American flag and other flags of the army. The memorial is the second largest equestrian monument in the world and was completely finished in 1924 largely through the vision and creation by sculptor Henry Merwin Shrady, and Sherry Fry following Shrady's death in 1922. The memorial was dedicated on the 100th anniversary of Grant's birth, April 27, 1922. More »

Union Station

Opening in 1907, Union Station is one of the great works that came out of the so-called "City Beautiful" architectural movement that was en vogue around the turn-of-the-century. The renowned architect Daniel Burnham was responsible for the design, with its especially grand Main Hall with 96-foot vaulted ceilings. During World War II, Union Station was trafficked by more than 200,000 people each day, a reminder of how much more common rail usage was back then. Today's Union Station is a transit center/shopping mall with access to the Metro, Amtrak, and regional commuting trains. It's also got a food court, a movie theater, and some upscale shops, but it is not like it used to be way back when--the old Union Station once had a Turkish bath, a funeral parlor, a hotel, and a bowling alley. As train ridership dropped significantly, it became something of a ghost town and needed to be rescued from demolition. It was eventually renovated thanks to an act of Congress in the 1980s and reopened in its current incarnation in 1988. More »

United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

This moving memorial will have visitors enraptured with the experience and feeling of the victims and survivors of the Holocaust. The museum's goal is to provide education towards an understanding of the events and experiences of the horrific time in world history, and to help promote spiritual and moral questioning. Even the architecture is a powerful element of the museum, as it was designed to depict the stark, confusing, and nightmarish life under Nazi power--the exterior is made of flat cement brick and limestone, and the interior is a startling maze of uneven brick walls, rooms without right angles, cracked floors, and windows of various sizes. Although visiting the museum is an intense experience, and sometimes not for the faint of heart, thousands of people flock here each year, making the museum one of Washington DC's most popular. More »

United States National Arboretum

In 1927, the United States government established an act to create a National Arboretum, where scientific and botanical research could be conducted. The United States National Arboretum has 446 acres of blooming flowers, towering trees, and extensive collections of exotic plant species, all used in one way or another for research and development. Some of the gardens you can tour include the famous Azalea collections, the Asian gardens, and the National Grove of State Trees--where you can show your children what their state tree looks like. The Arboretum is enormous, so decide what you most want to see before you go and be sure to allocate enough time. More »

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

A powerful tribute to the veterans of the Vietnam War, the Vietnam Memorial is a memorial made with two black granite walls that stretch 246 feet 9 inches. At it's apex where the two walls come together, the wall stands 10.1 feet (3m) high, and at its end, just a short 8 inches off the ground. The wall was dedicated in 1982, and due to a controversial debate that emerged after the wall was selected following a nation-wide competition, additional statue monuments (Three Soldiers and the Vietnam Women's Memorial) were added to the complex. The design was submitted by 21 year-old Yale graduate student Maya Ying Lin to represent a simple way of symbolizing healing. The reflective granite was chosen to reflect the viewer's image back to him or her. The wall contains 58,256 names of servicemen who had either Killed in Action (KIA) or are still listed as Missing in Action (MIA). Despite the controversy, millions of Americans and visitors from around the world pay homage to the servicemen lost during the Vietnam-era, making it one of the strongest and poignant gestures that America has to its lost veterans. More »

Washington Harbour

Providing a berth to the Potomac River from the influential neighborhood of Georgetown, the Washington Harbour is a popular promenade on which people can come to find beautiful sights over the river as well as a number of restaurants and shops to spend your day. The promenade and design of Washington Harbour was developed in the 1980s and is credited to the vision of architect Arthur Cotton Moore. In recent years, the harbor has developed through the construction of condominiums and office space while the appeal of the area continues to grow as people continue to find new reasons to head to this great part of Georgetown. More »

Washington Monument

Rising some 555-feet in the air, the Washington Monument is an iconic piece of the Washington DC landscape. It's simple, understated, yet very imposing design provides quite a tribute to the first president and top general of the Continental Army during the Revolutionary War, George Washington. Amazingly, the monument took nearly 40 years to build after a lengthy fundraising campaign that lasted many years itself--it was interrupted by the Civil War and not completed until 1884. The delay caused the quarry where the stone was taken from to shade a slightly different color, which you may notice on the monument. The reflecting pool that sits between the monument and the Lincoln Memorial casts President Washington's shadow very far indeed. As one might expect, tourist traffic to the monument is very high, and you'll need tickets from the kiosk on 15th Street to take the elevator to the top of the structure. Otherwise, the view is quite nice from anywhere on the National Mall. More »

Washington National Cathedral

The National Cathedral can trace its roots back to 1791, when Congress enlisted the help of Major Pierre l’Enfant to design the layout for the new American capital, which included plans for a national church open to all regardless of denomination or creed. While l'Enfant never saw his vision come to life, the idea for a national church would ultimately be realized over a hundred years later when Congress granted a charter on January 6, 1893 for the construction of the new Washington National Cathedral. Several years later, a spot on Mount Saint Alban was chosen for its views overlooking the capital and in 1907 the first stone was laid. Eighty three years later the church would finally reach the end of its construction and the church was opened in 1990. Since then, the cathedral has opened its doors to all so that everyone can participate in the communion with the nation and an underlying faith. The cathedral has paid witness to moments recognizing national unity following the September 11 attacks and an annual Christmas service held every year. Architecturally, the building is an outstanding combination of grandeur aesthetic beauty and intimate chapels. The tailored gardens and magnificent building make the Washington National Cathedral a crowning jewel of the city. More »

White House

On the second day he lived in what was then called the "Executive Mansion,"John Adams--the second president and the first to live in the home--wrote a prayer to his wife Abigail: "I pray Heaven to bestow the best of blessings on this House, and all that shall hereafter inhabit it. May none but honest and wise men ever rule under this roof." Original construction began in 1792 after President George Washington selected James Hoban's submission, though he asked for it to be enlarged and a great reception hall to be added to the plans. When it was finally completed, Adams would be president, in November of 1800. The house was badly damaged by the British during the War of 1812--a fire claimed all but the exterior walls. The house was rebuilt, and the familiar architectural piques still show today with its grand and imposing elliptical porticos and elongated flanks. The White House has undergone several significant renovations, both structural and decorative in its two centuries of history. Tours are available for groups 10 or larger, but require a member of Congress to submit the request six months in advance. This is obviously a significant constraint, but if you're hoping for a bit more in-depth visit than what you can see from the gates by the south lawn, head to the White House Visitor's Center on 15th and E Streets. More »

White House Visitor Center

Because of the difficulty obtaining a tour of the White House, the White House Visitor Center, located inside the north end of the Department of Commerce Building, is the best place to learn about the White House. It has several exhibits chronicling the White House including: "First Families In the White House," "Symbols and Images," "White House Architecture," and "White House Interiors." Videos and gift shop items are also available. More »

Women in Military Service for America Memorial

The Women in Military Service for America Memorial was completed in 1997 after almost 11 years of planning, fundraising, and construction. The memorial is located just over the Arlington Memorial Bridge on your way to Arlington National Cemetery. The memorial highlights the past, present and future efforts of America's military females. This memorial is the only one of its kind in the United States. More »

Woodend Nature Sanctuary

This beautiful estate houses Washington D.C.'s Audubon Naturalist Society. The society works to promote conservation and preservation of the natural world around us and to educate the public about how to live in harmony with the environment. Serving as the headquarters of the Society, the elegant Woodend estate that was built in the 1920s by famed architect John Russell Pope (of Jefferson Memorial and the National Gallery of Art fame). This beautiful Georgian Revival building was the home of Captain Chester Wells and his wife until they donated it to the Audubon Society in 1968. When visiting Woodend, be sure to take a tour of the gorgeous home, browse the North American bird exhibit, and explore the nature trail and ponds outside to get a complete Audubon experience. More »

Woodlawn

This Georgian-style mansion was a wedding gift from George Washington to his nephew Major Lawrence Lewis and his wife (Martha Washington's granddaughter) Nelly Custis Lewis. It was constructed on 2,000 acres of the Mount Vernon estate property in 1800-1805 and was designed by architect Dr. William Thornton, who was one of the original designers of the U.S. Capitol. Today, the home contains many of its original furnishings, and also houses some of the pieces from Mount Vernon. In addition to housing a museum-quality collection of furnishings and other period accessories, the house is often used as a private event venue, providing a stately backdrop for weddings, ceremonies, and other events. More »

Woodrow Wilson House

The only Presidential home of its kind in Washington DC, the Woodrow Wilson House was the residence of the former president after he left office in 1921. Although he only spent a few short years here until his death in 1924, the house preserves the life and era of the President while he was living in Washington during his presidency and retirement. Wilson was the only president that stayed in Washington following his term, and while part of that may have been due to his poor health, he and his wife Edith lived comfortably in the house on S Street collecting memorabilia from around the world and entertaining guests. The house was renovated to look exactly as it would have appeared during the 1910s and 1920s in an example of the Georgian revival style. The home is an eclectic blend of European and modern American sentimentality, which is a fascinating reflection of this diplomatic president. More »