washington d.c. tourist map

Washington, D.C. Maps – Washington Tourist Maps

Home | Travel | North America | United States | Washington, D.C. | Washington, D.C. Maps – Washington Tourist Maps

Are you looking for a Washington DC map to plan your trip? Look no further because I’ve compiled all the maps you need. The Washington tourist area is relatively small. You can get just about everywhere by walking, so these maps will help you find the main attractions in the city.

Below you’ll find the best 10 maps of Washington DC that you can print out or save on your smartphone so you can check them at any time.

• Washington DC tourist map
• Interactive map of Washington DC
• Washington DC National Mall Map
• Washington DC street map

Washington DC neighborhood map

• Washington DC public transport map
• Washington DC road map
• High-resolution map of Washington DC

Map of the United States

• Map of Washington DC for downloading

Washington, DC tourist map

To give you an initial idea of what the capital of the United States is like and what to do in Washington D.C , check out the following tourist map of Washington, DC:

Interactive Map Of Washington, DC

The following interactive map of Washington, DC will show you where all the attractions are and help you get to know the city in depth. I’ve marked the main memorials to the US presidents, museums, the White House, and much more.

Did I miss a tourist attraction? Leave me a comment and I’ll add it.

At the end of the article, I explain how you can check this map offline so you can always carry it with you and have it on hand .

Washington, DC National Mall Map

Below is a map of the main attractions of Washington, DC, with most of them located in the National Mall. Additionally, it includes a map of the Smithsonian where the main museums in Washington are.

Map of the National Mall in Washington, DC

Washington, DC street map

With this Washington, DC street map, you’ll never get lost in this great city!

The following Washington, DC neighborhood map is also very useful. You can quickly and easily locate any point in the city with it. I also recommend you use it to find where to stay in Washington D.C.

Washington, DC neighborhood map

Washington DC Public Transport Map

Although I think the best way to get to know Washington, DC is by walking, sometimes it’s necessary to use public transport. This metro map of Washington, DC can help you move around the city when you’re short on time.

Washington, DC Public Transport Map

Washington, DC road map

I don’t recommend getting around the city by car, although a Washington, DC road map always comes in handy if you’re going to visit the surroundings or if you’re getting to Washington, DC by car.

Washington, D.C. road map

High-resolution Washington, DC map

On the following high-resolution Washington, DC map, you can zoom in and find any point in the city. It’s perfect so that you don’t miss out on anything in the capital of the United States.

Below is a map of the United States so you can see where Washington, DC is. Thanks to it, you’ll be able to locate the capital within the country.

Washington, DC map for downloading

The Washington, DC map for downloading is the last one. For me, this type of map is a must when I plan any trip.

If you’re going to be offline, don’t worry because you can check it any time from your smartphone. Just download the Maps.me and Dropbox apps. Once installed, search Washington, DC in Maps.me and download the KML file to save it in Dropbox. Finally, open this file from your phone with the Maps.me app so that all the tourist attractions are saved on your phone.

And that’s it! Now that you have all the maps of Washington, DC , you can start enjoying your trip.

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Old Town Trolley Tours Washington DC 4.2

Union Station

50 Massachusetts Ave NE, Washington, DC 20002

Tickets Sold at this Stop

Massachusetts Ave. and Columbus Circle NE. Enter Columbus Circle, make first left, follow lane C. Stop is in front of Union Station just east of the main crosswalk.

National Japanese American Memorial

400 New Jersey Ave NW

New Jersey Avenue NW between E and D streets NW. In front the Hyatt Regency between the entrance and exit of the circular driveway.

U.S. Capitol

1st St NW, Washington, DC 20016

First Street and Pennsylvania Avenue, NW. Stop is at the Peace Monument Circle at Pennsylvania and 1st Street, NW.

Smithsonian Air and Space Museum

200-250 6th St SW, Washington, DC 20024

Sixth Street and Independence Avenue, SW. Stop is on the south side of the building at 6th Street and Independence Avenue, SW.

The Wharf - Boarding for Water Taxi Boat Cruise

Maine Ave SW at 9th street SW

900 Maine Ave SW. Between the intersection and the Metro bus stop.

International Spy Museum

700 L’Enfant Plaza

Washington Monument

1398 Independence Ave SW

Corner of 12th and Independence Ave. Just west of the Wilson Memorial Arch at the end of the Department of Agriculture Building at the light pole.

Jefferson Memorial

East Basin Dr. & Ohio Dr. SW.

Stop is at the intersection of East Basin Drive and Ohio Drive, SW, across from the George Mason Memorial .

FDR Memorial/ MLK Jr. Memorial

1695 West Basin Dr SW, Washington, DC 20418

West Basin Dr. and Ohio Dr. SW. North on West Basin Dr. - Stop is just after the taxi stand & bus loading and unloading sign.

Lincoln Memorial

11 Daniel French Dr SW, Washington, DC 20245

Daniel French Dr. & Independence Ave. SW. North on Daniel French Dr. into Lincoln complex. Stop is next to the Concession Stand. Transfer for Arlington National Cemetery Shuttle.

National Museum of American History

1300 Constitution Ave NW, Washington, DC 20560

14th & Constitution Ave. NW. East on Constitution Ave., stop is just before first driveway entrance by the fire hydrant.

National Portrait Gallery/African Art Museum

F Street NW at 8th Street

At the intersection between the two crosswalks in front of the steps of the Donald Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture

Washington Welcome Center

1001 E St NW, Washington, DC 20004

At the intersection of 10th and E Streets, NW. Across the street from Ford's Theatre and the Peterson House.

The White House

1475 Pennsylvania Ave. NW , Washington, DC 20004

15th and Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Next to the green fire hydrant, in front of the Willard Hotel.

National Archives

800 Pennsylvania Ave NW, Washington, DC 20004

9th Street and Pennsylvania Ave. NW. East on Pennsylvania Ave. Stop is in front of the Research Center entrance. Across from the Navy Memorial .

Arlington National Cemetery

1 Memorial Ave. , Ft. Myer, VA 22211. Arlington Welcome Center loading zone.

Eisenhower and Arlington Cemetery Circle; under the pavilion just outside of the rear doors of the Arlington Visitor’s Center. Transfer for tour of the Cemetery (must have separate ticket).

John F. Kennedy Gravesite

Grant Drive, west of Sheridan

On Grant Drive just west of Sheridan’s intersection near the shrubbery at the benches.

Coast Guard Memorial

Jessup and Dewey

On Jessup in between the Coast Guard Memorial and the lone bench

Pershing Gravesite

Clayton at Grant

On Clayton at the intersection at Grant near the stop sign.

Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

Porter and Memorial Drive

At the entrance of the Amphitheater about 50 feet to the left of the stairs

Arlington House

Sherman between Sheridan and Lincoln

Out the rear of Arlington House along the street at the row of benches

Iwo Jima Memorial

Ord and Wetzel Drive

Across the street from the gate near the walkway at the “no vehicles allowed” sign

Sections 55 and 59

McClellan and Halsey

Weekend Stop Only.

In the grassy area next to the grave markers.

Columbarium and Niche Wall

Patton and York

At the Patton side of the intersection near the stop sign on York.

Pentagon Group Burial Marker

Patton Circle near Marshall Drive

On the circle next to the pine tree at the trash receptacle.

Tour at your own pace! Old Town Trolley Tours’ On and off Privileges make it easy to explore these top U.S. travel destinations! Hop off at your favorite stops – for lunch, shopping or to experience an attraction – and then continue your sightseeing tour. We call it
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Smithsonian National Postal Museum

Journey back to the days of the Pony Express and see first-hand how the mail was delivered in colonial America, through times of war and into the present day. At the Smithsonian National Postal Museum , visitors learn about the amazing history of the American postal service and how it evolved to become what it is today. Located on the lower level of the old Post Office Building just next door to Union Station, the building was constructed in 1914 and served as the Washington DC post office until 1986 .

A grand symbol of the United States Government, the Capitol Building on Capitol Hill is recognized across the world as one of our country’s most prominent icons of Democracy. The striking white dome acts as a focal point to the building which welcomes thousands of visitors every year. Both a working legislative building and a national monument, guided tours are offered all day long and provide an inside look into how our United States government works.

U.S. Supreme Court

Upon arrival at the Supreme Court, visitors are often struck by the imposing marble building. Architecturally magnificent, the neoclassical structure was built in 1935 to become the permanent home to the Supreme Court. Walking along the hallway towards the Courtroom, guests are greeted by busts of all the former Chief Justices. The Supreme Court is the highest judiciary authority in the United States and hears about 100 cases each year, although more than 7,000 are submitted before them. Visitors can tour the Supreme Court building, hear lectures on the history of the court and how it works, sit in on sessions on specified days and times and view various exhibits throughout the year.

Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is unlike any other library in the world. The world’s largest library, it is home to more than 100 million books, maps, recordings, manuscripts, films and photos including items from Thomas Jefferson’s personal collection. Former President Jefferson stepped in to help the new Library after the War of 1812. In 1814, the British burned the small congressional library’s north wing. Jefferson offered to sell his extensive library of 6,487 books to “recommence” its own library.

Welcome to Washington DC! The spectacular Union Station was originally designed to be the gateway to the city and since it opened over 90 years ago, has become the most visited site in DC. Its unique architecture makes it popular for photos. Locals, tourists and even presidents make it a point to visit this magnificent historic mall and train station.

National Law Enforcement Museum

Visitors will explore the history and many facets of American law enforcement in an experience you won’t find anywhere else!

U.S. Botanic Garden

No matter what time of year it is, the lush greenery and gorgeous plants are always thriving at the United States Botanic Garden. Located just next door to the Museum of the American Indian at the foot of the Capitol, the Botanic Garden is an oasis of beautiful plant life and flowers and home to 4,000 living species. The conservatory houses exhibits that focus on the importance of plants to people and on the ecology and evolution of plants.

Museum of the American Indian

The Museum of the American Indian is the only museum solely dedicated to the history, study and preservation of the American Indians. You’ll be instantly captivated by its masterful architecture. The curved limestone building appears to be a natural rock formation facing towards the sun and is surrounded by acres of authentic crops of the American Indian. Its very design stands out among the many granite and marble neoclassical structures in the National Mall . Once inside, you’ll be treated to an up-close look at the life, languages, history, art and traditions of the Native Americans.

Hirshhorn Gallery & Sculpture Garden

The founder of the Hirschhorn Gallery and Sculpture Garden, Joseph Hirschhorn left an impressive legacy of art and inspiration to the American People. He had an immense passion for art. So much so that at one time he had more than 6,000 pieces in his collection housed at several private locations. It was Hirschhorn’s adoration for the arts that inspired a new museum of art in Washington DC in the late 1960’s. The Hirschhorn Gallery and Sculpture Garden opened its doors in 1974, featuring Joseph Hirschhorn’s personal collection of paintings and sculpture, which he generously donated so that all of the American people could enjoy it as much as he did.

One can only imagine the exhilaration that Neil Armstrong felt as he took the very first steps on the moon in 1969 or the incredible thrill that the Wright brothers experienced as they took that first flight in 1903. At the Smithsonian Air and Space Museum, you can get an idea of how they felt when you see first-hand the original Wright 1903 Flyer and the Apollo 11 Command Module which carried astronauts Neil Armstrong, Michael Collins and Buzz Aldrin on their mission to the moon. These historic air and spacecrafts are among a collection of more than 30,000 artifacts at the Air and Space Museum.

The Wharf – Boarding for Water Taxi Boat Cruise

Holocaust Memorial Museum

The museum serves as a memorial to the millions of people who were murdered during the Holocaust. Open 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. everyday, except Yom Kippur and Christmas Day. Timed passes are distributed on a first–come first–served basis.

Bureau of Engraving and Printing

See where millions of dollars are printed every day. Discover all of the steps to producing currency from the blank sheet of paper to a crisp bill. As the security printer for the US Government, the Bureau is responsible for the design, printing and engraving for all US currency.

Freer and Sackler Galleries of Art - Smithsonian Castle

Located near the National Mall, the Smithsonian Institution Building was completed in 1855. Designed by James Renwick, Jr., the red Seneca sandstone edifice features a faux Norman architectural style that incorporates late-Romanesque and early-Gothic details. Although slaves were not used in the construction, they were used to quarry the stone. Colloquially known as the Smithsonian Castle, the building initially held the institution’s entire collection of art and other objects. Designated a National Landmark in 1965, its Victorian arched windows, dark woodwork and terrazzo floor evokes the serene ambiance of a house of worship. The 4.2-acre Enid Haupt Garden is situated adjacent to the Castle.

George Mason Memorial

What many folks don’t know about George Mason, they can learn while visiting his memorial right next to the Jefferson Memorial . Known for his authorship of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, George Mason’s work and beliefs were a major influence into the writing of the United States Bill of Rights. He earned the nickname, the reluctant statesman, after refusing to sign the United States Constitution because it did not abolish slavery.

Tidal Basin

The Tidal Basin is a beautiful part of the National Mall in Washington DC. Bordering monuments and memorials , the Tidal Basin is home to thousands of Cherry Trees that were given as a gift to the United States by Japan. Luring visitors to take a stroll or rent a paddle-boat for a tranquil break from sightseeing, the Tidal Basin is a favorite spot to many tourists throughout the year.

FDR Memorial

The FDR Memorial is located along the Western edge of the Tidal Basin, between the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials . Built in 1997, the memorial is known for its unique design, its tribute to our 32nd President, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, and for the fact that it tells the story of America during the years of FDR’s Presidency. Four outdoor rooms portray the President’s terms in office, each with different statues and quotes. Beginning with a likeness of him riding in a car during his first inaugural speech and ending with him seated in a wheelchair, the memorial traces his twelve years of office as well as the many changes our country went through during that era.

Tours in Washington DC are not complete without a stop at the Jefferson Memorial. A tribute to the third President of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, the memorial is a recognized symbol of democracy and independence. As one of the founding fathers of our country and the author of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson’s significant impact on the shaping of our government is known throughout the world.

Martin Luther King Junior Memorial

Opened in August of 2011, the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is located on four acres in the West Potomac Park and is part of the National Park Service. Its official address, 1964 Independence Avenue, is in reference to the year the Civil Rights Act became Law.

Lincoln Memorial – Transfer for Arlington National Cemetery Shuttle

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

Often referred to as the wall that heals, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial beckons visitors of all ages, races and nationalities. It was created to honor and remember the men and women who served in the Vietnam War and to help our country heal after the controversial, emotional conflict ended. The enormous black wall lists 58,209 names of those who are missing or were killed during the war.

Korean War Memorial

To remember those who fought in the Korean War, The United States Congress approved a Korean War Memorial to be constructed in the National Mall . The memorial has several interesting aspects to it including the “Field Of Service” which has 19, larger-than-life-size stainless steel statues of servicemen from all four of the armed forces. The men appear to be a squad on patrol and are dressed in full combat gear. 

World War II Memorial

Honoring the 16 million people who served in the United States Military during the war, the more than 400,000 who died and the countless others who supported our troops from home, the World War II Memorial is a stunning tribute to the sacrifices that were made.

Explore the Rich History from the Comfort of our Tour Vehicles. Arlington National Cemetery is an enduring tribute to those who’ve dedicated their lives to defending the ideals of our nation. A visit here will leave an indelible impression on your spirit. There are more than 624 acres of hallowed ground and they’re best explored aboard Arlington National Cemetery Tours.

The Lincoln Memorial was opened on Memorial Day in 1922, 57 years after Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was assassinated. 
The immense Greek Temple stands in front of a gleaming reflecting pool and is a stunning spectacle during the day and especially at night.

This is also the trolley stop where you transfer to the shuttle that takes you to Arlington National Cemetery. The first Arlington shuttle departs the Lincoln Memorial at 9:30 am. The last shuttle from the Lincoln Memorial to Arlington National Cemetery is at 3:30 pm. The last shuttle from Arlington National Cemetery to the Lincoln Memorial is at 3:45 pm.

Museum of African American History and Culture

The National Museum of African American History and Culture chronicles America’s journey toward enshrining freedom, equality and democracy for all citizens. The museum houses a collection of more than 37,000 pieces related to a variety of areas, including slavery, segregation and civil rights as well as family, religion and the performing arts.

One of the most celebrated and spectacular sights on the National Mall , the Washington Monument, stands as a grand tribute to our nation’s first President, George Washington. The 555 foot obelisk is also one of the oldest and most recognizable memorials in the City. While construction began in 1848, the monument was not completed until 1884 because of financial difficulties during the Civil War.

Get MORE out of your summer in DC aboard the iconic Old Town Trolley and see the best first!

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History

Ever wonder if there’s any truth to the curse of the famous Hope Diamond? Or wish you could see for yourself the fossils of an ancient mammal or a dinosaur? Then step inside the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History. Millions of people come each year to get a close look at some of the world’s most intriguing, beguiling specimens that the Museum has on display.

Step inside the National Museum of American History and experience the passion, creativity and inspiration of the American people. Walk through the fascinating exhibits and collections and transport yourself through hundreds of years of history, culture and the lives of our people.  Over 3 million artifacts will amaze and enlighten you, including the original Star-Spangled Banner and Abraham Lincoln’s top hat.

National Portrait Gallery

Complete Guide To Museum of African Art

One of the country’s first institutions dedicated solely to artistic expression on the African continent, the National Museum of African Art opened to the public in 1987. The attraction boasts a collection of more than 9,000 pieces in a variety of media spanning from ancient times through the modern era. In addition to textiles and jewelry, the museum has sculptures, pottery and paintings representing nearly every country in Africa, including Arab North Africa and Sub-Saharan Africa. Although it is one of the Smithsonian’s smallest museums, the institution has the largest single collection of African art in the United States.

Ford's Theatre

The chilling story of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination comes to life in the very place he was mortally shot on April 14, 1865. After being closed for 103 years, Ford’s Theater was restored and reopened in 1968. Serving as a tribute to Abraham Lincoln and his love of the performing arts, the Theater is a live, working theater that plays host to a variety of plays by some of the country’s most talented playwrights, actors and artists. Ford’s Theater is also home to The Lincoln Museum, which gives visitors a look at the elaborate conspiracy planned by actor John Wilkes Booth, a supporter of the Confederate States of America, to assassinate the President, the Vice President and the Secretary of State.

Petersen House

After a visit to Ford’s Theater , a stop at the Petersen House is most definitely in order. It is in this house that Abraham Lincoln died after frantic doctors worked to save him throughout the night. The house, now a National Historic Site, has been restored to its original condition and even the bed on which Lincoln passed away is much like the actual one . Now furnished with period pieces, guests can see the front parlor where Mary Todd Lincoln spent the night with her son, Robert and the back parlor where Secretary of War Edwin M. Stanton held a cabinet meeting and questioned witnesses. Visitors can take self-guided tours to see the solemn, yet intriguing Petersen House.

Madame Tussauds

When you visit Madame Tussauds, take a remarkable interactive journey through American history! You will be able to stand next to each of the US Presidents. From the shortest, President Madison to the tallest… President Lincoln and President L. B. Johnson.

For an official DC welcome, stop by the Washington Welcome Center. Here, you’ll find maps, brochures, tips and advice on all the area attractions and points of interest. Also, Welcome Center staff will give you great insight into activities and sightseeing spots you won’t want to miss. Souvenirs and snacks are also available and the center serves as the transfer stop for the Uptown Loop (Hotel Shuttle).

White House Visitors Center

At the White House Visitor Center, people from around the world can learn about the amazing history of the White House and the United States Presidency. Discover facts about the architecture and furnishings of the White House, the first families, social events, and relations with the press and world leaders . Visitors can also watch a 30-minute video, entitled “Where History Lives” and see six historical exhibits. A gift shop offers a variety of souvenirs and mementos related to the White House and Washington DC. Park ranger talks, military concerts, and special traveling exhibits are also of interest to guests and available at different times.

Department of Treasury

The Treasury Building took 33 years to build from 1836 – 1869. It was primarily designed by the same man, Robert Mills, who was the architect of the Washington Monument . At the time of its construction, the Treasury Building was one of the largest office buildings in the world. It served as a barracks during the Civil War and a temporary White House for President Andrew Johnson after President Lincoln’s assassination. Built in the Greek Revival style, Treasury was the first Departmental building in the nation’s capital thus influencing the design of many of the others.

Since 1800, the White House has been a symbol of the United States government, the president and the people of America. It has also served as the home of every U.S. president except George Washington. Remodeled and restored many times over the years, the White House is recognized around the world as an emblem of American democracy. For many, the most famous room in the residence is the Oval Office where the president conducts business and meets with his advisers. Maintaining a stately presence in the nation’s capital, the White House is one of most significant landmarks in Washington, D.C.

National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery of Art DC was created in 1937. Through the generosity of Andrew W. Mellon, a financier who was also a public servant, the Museum gained its first collection. Mellon had a passion for art and his large collection of old master paintings, sculpture and other works were intended for all of America to enjoy. After his death, Congress accepted his collection and thus the National Gallery was born.

U.S. Navy Memorial

The US Navy Memorial is a truly spectacular tribute to those who served or are currently serving in the nation’s sea services. A stunning plaza paved in granite forms a 100-foot diameter of the world. Fountains, pools, flags and historic panels surround the deck of the plaza tracing the achievements of the Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines. The famous Lone Sailor statue stands as a representation of the men who joined the service to fulfill their patriotic duty; a striking sight, it is perhaps one of the most well-known aspects of the memorial.

Old Post Office Pavilion & Bell Tower

For a spectacular view of the city and a journey back to the early 1900’s, the Old Post Office and Bell Tower is a must see. It was Washington’s first skyscraper, measuring in at around 300 feet from the ground. In its day, it was the largest and tallest government building in the city and was used as the post office for several years before plans for a newer, more modern facility were implemented. Thanks to the Great Depression, the classic building was saved from destruction and today visitors can enjoy an exhilarating ride in a glass elevator all the way to the top.

Journey back in time as you view the original founding documents of the United States written by the patriots who created a nation conceived in liberty. Established in 1934, the National Archives is the repository for the priceless documents that have shaped American history and defined our democracy. These include the Declaration of Independence, the U.S. Constitution and the Bill of Rights, which are collectively known as the Charters of Freedom. The Archives also contain other treasured heirlooms like an original copy of the Magna Carta from 1297, the Louisiana Purchase Treaty signed by Napoleon Bonaparte and Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation.

The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

In 1921, Congress approved the burial of one unknown serviceman killed during World War I in the plaza of the newly built Memorial Amphitheater. To ensure that the choice was truly random amongst the options, four service members were exhumed from four separate cemeteries in France. Army Sergeant Edward Younger, a recipient of the Distinguished Service Cross, was selected to pick one of the four identical caskets. He placed a spray of white roses on the third casket from the left. While the chosen soldier was transported back from France on the USS Olympia, the others were reburied in the Meuse Argonne Cemetery.

A lasting tribute to the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice while serving our nation, Arlington National Cemetery is visited by millions of people each year. These hallowed grounds are where more than 400,000 service men and women and their family members are laid to rest. There are nearly 30 funerals held each day, honoring those who have given their life to defend the values and ideals of America. If you’re planning a vacation to Washington DC, a visit to Arlington is something you must do.

President John F. Kennedy Gravesite

Section 5 Supreme Court Justices

Section Five is often referred to as the Supreme Court Justice Section because there are approximately half a dozen US Supreme Court Justices buried here. Notables include Chief Justices William H. Rehnquist and Warren Burger and Associate Justices Oliver Wendall Holmes, Potter Stewart, and Thurgood Marshall. Marshall was the first African American to serve on the Court. Prior to becoming a Justice, he argued before the Court most notably during the Brown V. Board of Education case.

The original Kennedy gravesite was very small, only 20 feet by 30 feet, and surrounded by a white picket fence. The minute plot was not enough to withstand the incredible amount of mourners visiting the President’s grave.  A decision was made to create a more permanent and sturdy site which is what you will see today. The circular granite walkway is 210 feet in diameter and 3.2 acres are set aside in President Kennedy’s memory. The low-lying wall is inscribed with quotes from Kennedy’s inaugural address and just behind the wall is the grave of the President, two of his children, his wife Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis, and the Eternal Flame. Today President Kennedy’s grave is the most visited site at the cemetery.

US Coast Guard Memorial

Robert Peary and Matthew Henson

Rear Admiral Peary is credited with being the first to reach the North Pole. He directed a six man team which included Matthew Henson. Henson was an African American explorer and a close companion of Admiral Peary. It was Henson who planted the U.S. flag on the North Pole.

Dedicated in May of 1923, the marker memorializes the 150 sailors who lost their lives on the cutter ships Tampa and Seneca which sank within a week of each other during World War I. Today the memorial is for all Coast Guard service members. Adorned with a seagull which represents the tireless vigil of the guard and the words Semper Paratus meaning “Always Ready”, the motto of the Coast Guard, the memorial is a must see for all.

John J. Pershing

Pershing is not the only notable you should visit at this stop. Other notables include Corporal Ira Hayes who was one of the six men to raise the flag on top of Mt. Suribachi at Iwo Jima, General Henry “Hap” Arnold who was the only person to receive a five star rank in two branches of the service, the Army and Air Force, and Corporal Frank W. Buckles who was the oldest surviving World War I veteran. He died in 2011 at the age of 110.

Section three is near the Pershing gravesite stop.  A short walk down the street will take you to the graves of astronauts Roger Chaffe and Virgil Grissom who perished aboard the Apollo I spacecraft and medical figures Jonathon Letterman, the Surgeon General of the Army of the Potomac during the Civil War, and Major Walter Reed who confirmed that mosquitoes were the cause of yellow fever.

Pershing is the highest ranked military officer buried at Arlington and the second highest ranked officer in history. He was promoted to General of the Armies in 1919, which is equivalent to a six star General, and was put in charge of all branches of the military service. He led the American Expeditionary Forces during World War I and was mentor to many generals including Patton, Eisenhower, Marshall, and Bradley. The only other person to obtain this rank was General George Washington who earned the rank posthumously in 1976.

Challenger and Columbia Memorials

Just across the street from the Memorial Amphitheater are the memorials for the Space Shuttle Challenger and the Space Shuttle Columbia . The Challenger exploded on January 28, 1986 just a few seconds after takeoff. All seven crew members, including civilian teacher Christa McAuliffe, perished. The Columbia disintegrated during re-entry on February 1, 2003 killing all seven crew members.

Audie Murphy

He became one of the most highly decorated soldiers from World War II after being turned down by the Marine Corp for being too short and then turned down by the paratroopers. He received 28 medals, three from France and one from Belgium, all before he turned 21. His military record and good looks landed him in Hollywood. He acted in over 40 films including “To Hell and Back”, which was autobiographical. He died in a plane crash at the age of 46.

USS Maine Memorial

This is the actual mast from the USS Maine , which exploded off the Havana Harbor in 1898. Although the cause of the explosion was unknown, the press in the U.S. blamed the Spanish. The rally cry became “Remember the Maine.” Thus, the United States entered the Spanish- American War. Surrounding the memorial are the remains of many of the men who lost their lives on the ship.

Section One

Right across the street from Arlington House is Section One. It holds the remains of many officers from the Civil War. The headstones are for the most part extremely large and elaborate. One such marker is the white sarcophagus for Montgomery Meigs, the man responsible for turning the Custis Lee plantation into a cemetery.  Other notables include Abner Doubleday, a civil war general often falsely credited with being the inventor of baseball, and Anita Newcomb McGee, the first female Army surgeon and founder of the Army Nurse Corps. You can also find the reinterred remains of service members from the American Revolution and the War of 1812.

James Tanner Amphitheater

The first and original amphitheater on the Arlington grounds was built in 1873 for the fifth Decoration Day (known today as Memorial Day).  The celebration quickly outgrew the amphitheater and that’s why the new Memorial Amphitheater was built. The name was changed to the James Tanner Amphitheater in May of 2014 as part of the 150 th anniversary of the cemetery. Tanner was a Civil War veteran and served as President Lincoln’s stenographer. He is buried in Section Two very close to the amphitheater.

Tomb of the Civil War Unknown

The Tomb of the Civil War Unknown is located near the Arlington House. It holds the remains of 2,111 unknown soldiers from the Battle of Bull Run. The monument was erected by order of General Montgomery C. Meigs with the intent of deterring the Lees from returning to the Arlington grounds.

Arlington House was built by George Washington Parke Custis as a memorial to his adopted grandfather, George Washington. The house is full of history. It is more commonly known as the Robert E. Lee Memorial because Lee lived there for approximately 30 years. Lee married Parke Custis’ daughter Mary. They lived on the grounds until the start of the Civil War in 1861. During the war, the house, which was located on strategic high ground, became a campsite for Union troops. Arlington House sits on a hill overlooking the Potomac River and the District. You do not want to miss this panoramic view of our nation’s capital. Other things of interest on the grounds include a museum about the Lees, a book shop, and a former slave quarter.

US Marine Corps War Memorial Iwo Jima

Netherlands carillon.

The bell tower, located just outside the Ord and Weitzel gate, is a gift from the Netherlands to the U.S. for liberating them from the Nazis during World War II. The tower contains 50 bells which weigh approximately 30 tons. The bells play a medley of the armed forces anthems at noon and 6 PM and they chime every 15 minutes.

Arlington Section 27

The oldest section at Arlington contains the remains of nearly 4,000 former slaves; their headstones are marked by the words “citizen” and “civilian.” This section also holds the remains of approximately 1,500 United States Colored Troops (USCT), which the official designation was given to all African American units serving in the U.S. Army during the Civil War. Additionally, this section is the resting place for Private William Henry Christman. Interred on May 13 th 1864, Christman was the first military burial on the Arlington grounds.

Just outside the gates of the cemetery is the United States Marine Corps War Memorial which is for all Marines who have given their lives in service since 1775, but it is often called the Iwo Jima Memorial because it depicts the famous flag raising on top of Mt. Surabachi. The memorial was dedicated November 10, 1954, the 179 th birthday of the Corps. It is one of the world’s largest bronze statues and it’s quiet breathtaking to see in person.

Arlington Sections 55 and 59

Sections 55 and 59, the first stop on the weekend route, show us that Arlington National Cemetery is still a very active cemetery conducting up to 30 funerals each day, Monday through Saturday. Both sections are considered active burial sections, meaning a number of funerals take place in the sections during the week.

Arlington Niche Wall Columbarium Courts

Arlington section 60.

Accessible from the Columbarium stop, Section 60 holds the remains of those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. It is often referred to as the saddest section in the cemetery because family and friends visit regularly and leave flowers and mementos.

Half of the funerals that are conducted at the cemetery are for cremated remains. A niche space is a small rectangular slot that can hold approximately 2-3 urns. The Niche Wall runs along the eastern border of the cemetery and is approximately half a mile in length. The Columbarium Courts are structures that have niches built into them. There are nine courts in total. Court nine is the newest and largest with 20,000 niche spaces.

Arlington Pentagon Group Burial Marker

Arlington 9-11 Memorial

On September 12, 2002, a funeral service was conducted at the Memorial Amphitheater for the 184 victims of the terrorist attack on the Pentagon on 9/11. Following the service, a group burial was held in Section 64. A five-sided memorial marks the group burial. It resembles the Pentagon, which is in visible distance, although the five sides are meant to memorialize the five victims whose remains were not recovered. The names of all the victims are listed on the marker in alphabetical order.

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• 1 STOP Union Station
• 2 STOP National Japanese American Memorial
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• 5 STOP The Wharf - Boarding for Water Taxi Boat Cruise
• 6 STOP International Spy Museum
• 7 STOP Washington Monument
• 8 STOP Jefferson Memorial
• 9 STOP FDR Memorial/ MLK Jr. Memorial
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• 11 STOP National Museum of American History
• 12 STOP National Portrait Gallery/African Art Museum
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• 14 STOP The White House
• 15 STOP National Archives
• 1 STOP Arlington National Cemetery
• 2 STOP John F. Kennedy Gravesite
• 3 STOP Coast Guard Memorial
• 4 STOP Pershing Gravesite
• 5 STOP Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
• 6 STOP Arlington House
• 7 STOP Iwo Jima Memorial
• 8 STOP Sections 55 and 59
• 9 STOP Columbarium and Niche Wall
• 10 STOP Pentagon Group Burial Marker

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Washington Dc Tourist Attractions Map PDF

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Washington Dc Tourist Attractions Maps | City Tours Map

Washington DC is the USA’s capital city and the seat of its government. The city is also home to some of the country’s most popular monuments and landmark. It’s also a great city to shop, dine, and experience a vibrant nightlife. Of course, its neoclassical buildings and historical sights are worth checking out.

The best way to get around the city is by taking the Metro, which is why it’s important that you have a copy of the Washington metro map. With this map, you can take the city train to visit the city’s most popular sights. The Washington Transport Map is truly very useful for travelers who want to save money and time when exploring the Washington DC.

The Washington Tourist Sightseeing Map is very useful for tourists who wanted to see the city’s famous sights and attractions. You can refer to this map to find out how to reach the city’s popular sights that include White House, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the capital. If you want to visit some of the city’s best museums, this map will also come in handy.

If you’re someone who prefers to explore on foot, then taking part in a walking tour in Washington will suit you best. For this, the Washington Walking Tour Maps is what you will need. The map will provide information about how you can visit certain sights on foot, which is truly very useful for your tour. Depending on what you want to see, you can find a walking tour map that includes the city’s famous museums, landmarks, monuments, etc.

But the most convenient way to explore Washington is by taking the Hop on Hop off Bus tour. With this tour, you’ll be sitting on a comfortable bus as it travels to the city’s most famous sights. So grab a free printable copy of our Washington Hop on Hop off Bus map now.

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25 Top Tourist Attractions in Washington D.C.

By Carl Austin · Last updated on May 4, 2024

The capital city of the United States, Washington D.C. is fittingly packed with incredible things for you to see and do. Aside from being home to the legislative, executive and judicial branches of the government, it has dozens of world-class museums, while countless marble-clad monuments and memorials are situated along the National Mall.

A federal district of its own, the vibrant metropolis lies along the east bank of the Potomac River, sandwiched in between Virginia and Maryland. While the rest of the city is well worth a look due to its thriving dining and nightlife scenes, most people simply head straight to the National Mall, which is where almost all its top tourist attractions in Washington D.C. can be found.

This is because the lush, green parkland is not only bordered by both the White House and Capitol Building but contains the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument and numerous Smithsonian museums too.

25. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Not far from both the National Mall and Lincoln Memorial you can find the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. One of the best places in all of D.C. to watch a show, the state-of-the-art venue hosts more than 2000 performances each year, ranging from ballet and opera to concerts, plays and dance shows.

First opened in 1971, the huge cultural center is named after the former president and lies alongside the Potomac River. Besides an elegant Opera House and Concert Hall, the campus encompasses the refined Eisenhower Theater, as well as several other smaller venues. In addition, there are also some brilliant restaurants and rooftop terraces to try out.

24. International Spy Museum

One of the most fun things to do in Washington D.C., the International Spy Museum unveils the techniques and technologies used by spies throughout the ages. Set just south of the Smithsonian Castle, its galleries are packed with interactive exhibits, artifacts and even equipment that cover thousands of years of espionage’s hidden history.

A firm favorite with both adults and children alike, the museum was founded in 2002 and is now located at L’Enfant Plaza. While exploring the world’s largest collection of international espionage artifacts you’ll not only see concealed cameras and weapons but ingenious gadgets and disguises too. Guests can also crack codes and try out their spying skills, while fantastic photos and displays teach you all about important spies, scientists and covert missions.

23. Arlington National Cemetery

Another of the most popular and picturesque places to explore around DC is the atmospheric Arlington National Cemetery . Established during the American Civil War, it is now the final resting place for many of the most revered military veterans and influential figures from throughout the United States’ past.

Situated just across the Potomac River, the lush, green graveyard and its amazing monuments and memorials overlook the city from a prominent hillside. While many go to pay their respects at JFK’s grave, other people instead head to the moving Iwo Jima Memorial or grand Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Aside from ambling past rows and rows of well-maintained graves, you can also stop by the attractive Arlington House or peek into the Pentagon next door.

22. Smithsonian’s National Zoo

Boasting an incredible selection of exotic animals, birds and reptiles, the superb Smithsonian’s National Zoo can be found just fifteen minutes’ drive north of downtown. Sprawled across a huge area, its spacious enclosures and exhibits are home to everything from orangutans and elephants to gorillas, giant pandas and komodo dragons.

One of the oldest and most prestigious zoos in the States, it was founded in 1889 and is very highly thought of for its excellent research and conservation work. In total, it now impressively contains over 2,700 animals that represent more than 390 species from as far afield as Africa, Asia and South America. On top of this, interesting talks and live demonstrations constantly take place in the zoo.

21. United States Botanic Garden

Right next to the majestic Capitol Building is another very pleasant outdoor space for you to enjoy: the United States Botanic Garden. Lovingly landscaped, its gorgeous grounds and gleaming glass conservatory are a treat to stroll around with pretty plants, flowers, trees and shrubs wherever you look.

The oldest continually-operating botanic garden in the country, it was first established in 1820 with exquisitely manicured lawns and colorful flower beds found next to lovely water features and fountains. Inside the conservatory are scenic sections dedicated to desert plants and orchids, jungle species and primeval trees with marvelous Mediterranean and medicinal areas also on show.

20. Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial

One of the many must-see monuments in D.C. is the striking statue that makes up the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial. Dedicated to the inspirational leader of the Civil Rights Movement, it lies at the northwest corner of the Tidal Basin, just off of the National Mall.

Only erected in 2011, the 30-foot memorial is inscribed with motivational and moving quotes from King’s speeches and sermons. Thanks to its powerful symbolism, beautiful design and the profound impact that he had on the country, the magnificent monument is now a popular spot to visit and photo with countless other memorials also lying nearby.

19. National Archives Museum

Situated on the north side of the National Mall you can find the National Archives Museum which is home to some of the nation’s most important documents. Sure to delight history aficionados, it contains not only the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution but the Bill of Rights too.

Built in 1933, the imposing building features exquisite architecture with a fantastic facade fronting the renowned and resplendent rotunda within. Here you can examine the Charters of Freedom before moving on to other equally interesting chambers that display the Emancipation Proclamation, Louisiana Purchase Treaty and an original Magna Carta dating to 1297.

18. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Set on the southwestern side of the Tidal Basin is yet another monument that is well worth checking out when in town: the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. Dedicated to the 32nd President of the United States, its four outdoor ‘rooms’ represent each of Roosevelt’s terms in office, highlighting the considerable challenges both he and the country faced in the thirties and forties.

Water features prominently throughout the various outdoor areas of the memorial with a single large drop and cascading waterfalls symbolizing the Great Depression and World War II. Dotted about the tranquil gardens are stones engraved with his speeches and sayings and stunning sculptures of the President in his wheelchair, the First Lady and their dog Fala.

17. World War II Memorial

One of the most prominent and popular parts of the National Mall after the Washington Monument and Lincoln Memorial is the massive and impressive World War II Memorial. Located at the eastern end of the Reflecting Pool, it commemorates the Americans who served in the armed forces during WWII and the civilians who supported them on the homefront.

Surrounding an oval plaza and fountain are granite pillars that represent each state and US overseas territory and two triumphal arches for the Atlantic and Pacific theaters. In addition to snapping some photos of iconic scenes of the war experience etched on bas reliefs you can also pay your respects at the Freedom Wall, which is dedicated to those who lost their lives during the war.

16. National Portrait Gallery

While it is most known for hosting images of every previous president, the National Portrait Gallery also contains countless other portraits, paintings and photos of notable American citizens. Housed in the historic Old Patent Office Building, its enticing exhibits and artworks can be found just a short walk north of the National Mall.

Established in 1962, the exceptional art museum now boasts a large collection of some 23,000 items including drawings, statues and engravings. While wandering around its light and airy galleries you can see amazing depictions of everyone from Abraham Lincoln and Barack Obama to Frida Kahlo, Benjamin Franklin and Pocahontas with temporary exhibitions and talks also regularly taking place.

15. National Museum of African American History & Culture

The latest addition to the Smithsonian’s many institutions is the superb National Museum of African American History & Culture. Opened in 2016 on the National Mall, its extensive array of artifacts, artworks and audio installations shine a light on the cultures and communities of African-Americans in the country and the colossal challenges they have faced over the centuries.

The only national museum of its kind in the US, its interesting and interactive exhibitions focus on diverse themes like African craftsmanship, the breakdown of segregation and the fight for equality. Aside from seeing items owned by famous figures such as Muhammad Ali, Harriet Tubman and Nat Turner, you can also enjoy the astonishing architecture of the building which is based on the three-tiered crowns found in Yoruban art.

14. National Gallery of Art

As it is widely considered to be one of the best museums in the States, the National Gallery of Art is definitely not to be missed when in D.C. Packed with incredible paintings and photos, sculptures and prints, it showcases masterpieces by everyone from Raphael and Rembrandt to Monet, Picasso and van Gogh.

Founded in 1937 on the National Mall, the museum consists of the neoclassical West Building, the strikingly modern East Building and a gorgeous outdoor sculpture garden. Each focuses on various artistic mediums and epochs covering not only modern and contemporary artworks but the medieval period too with astounding pieces by European masters and American artists featuring throughout.

13. United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

A very sobering yet important place to visit, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is set just south of the National Mall. Home to thousands of historic artifacts, photos and oral testimonies, it educates people on the atrocities committed during WWII, confronts genocide and antisemitism and remembers the survivors and victims of the Holocaust.

As soon as you enter the museum you are immediately confronted by the past as you are handed an identification card of an actual person who experienced the Holocaust. While wandering through its well-designed galleries full of shocking images and original artifacts, visitors learn about everything from Hitler’s rise to power and Aryan ideology to the horrors of Kristallnacht, ghettos and the Final Solution. Particularly moving parts are its Tower of Faces and candle-lit Hall of Remembrance.

12. Vietnam Veterans and Korean War Veterans Memorials

Yet further thought-provoking and powerful spots for visitors to stop by are the Vietnam Veterans and Korean War Veterans Memorials. Located not far from one another, their striking statues, plaques and memorial walls can be found towards the western end of the National Mall.

One of the most visited monuments in DC, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial has a black granite wall emblazoned with the names of the fallen for you to walk along, as well as a Women’s Memorial and a bronze sculpture called The Three Servicemen. Equally impressive and emotive is the memorial to the Korean War Veterans that features stunning statues of a platoon on patrol and a peaceful Pool of Remembrance where you can pay your respects.

11. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

Another of the biggest and best museums in not just D.C. and the States but the world is the excellent Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History. Lying along the National Mall, its almost endless galleries are crammed with awe-inspiring artifacts, exhibits and specimens that look at everything from Ancient Egypt and Korean culture to dinosaurs, epidemics and meteorites.

A firm favorite with families, the massive museum is a delight to explore with its collection now numbering a whopping 145 million items in total. Asides from seeing replicas of giant whales and skeletons of triceratops, you can also watch tarantulas be fed in the Insect Zoo, wander through the colorful butterfly pavilion or catch a show in its IMAX theater.

10. Washington National Cathedral

The U.S. government likes to separate church and state, so it doesn’t have a formal national cathedral, but if it had one, it would have to be the Cathedral Church of Saint Peter and Saint Paul in the City and Diocese of Washington, which is considered the spiritual home of this nation.

More commonly known as Washington National Cathedral, this Neo-Gothic structure is the sixth largest cathedral in the world. Funerals for Presidents Eisenhower, Reagan and Ford were held here. Worship services are free, but admission is charged to tour the rest of the cathedral.

9. Library of Congress

The Library of Congress is today the largest library in the world. But it had more humble beginnings, being founded in 1800 to house early documents of the United States that were transferred from Philadelphia to Washington, D.C. For the first 100 years, it was mainly a reference library for Congress, but today is home to 158 million items that include 36 million books in 460 languages and 69 million manuscripts.

It has the largest collection of rare books in North America. The library is open to the public, but potential users are asked to check the library’s list of holdings on online before they come to make research materials more easily findable when they arrive. The main reading room is known as the Sacred Room, and is absolutely stunning.

8. Georgetown Neighborhood

Georgetown is an historic district that was established in Maryland decades before the U.S. government was established in Washington, D.C. It became part of the nation’s capital when Congress created the District of Columbia in 1871. Today Georgetown is a trendy place to live, work and play. It is home to a top university, several embassies and the Old Stone House, the oldest unchanged building in D.C.

Located in northwest Washington, D.C., the area has served as home to such notables as Thomas Jefferson, when he was vice president of the United States; Francis Scott Key, who wrote the Star Spangled Banner following a War of 1812 battle; and John F. Kennedy, who left his home there to move into the White House.

7. National Air and Space Museum

Visitors don’t have to be kids to be fascinated by the National Air and Space Museum. Part of the Smithsonian Institution, the National Air and Space Museum offers plenty of hands-on activities for kids of all ages, from eight to 80. The museum is a treasure trove about America’s air and space programs.

Exhibits include everything from the 1903 Wright Flyer to the Apollo 11 moon-landing expedition to exhibits on how scientists are exploring space today. The best part? Admission to the basic museum is free, though fees charged may be charged for features such as IMAX.

6. Jefferson Memorial

The Jefferson Memorial is a tribute to the US’ third president, Thomas Jefferson, and incorporates many of his thoughts on architecture. Its formal style resembles the Pantheon in Rome. This design created a controversy because some felt it looked too much like the Lincoln Memorial. The debate was settled by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, who laid the cornerstone in 1939.

Located on the National Mall, it features a statue of Jefferson looking toward the White House, and is intended to memorialize Jefferson’s views as a statesman and philosopher. Because Japanese cherry trees had to be torn down for the memorial, it now hosts Washington’s annual Cherry Blossom Festival.

5. Lincoln Memorial

The Lincoln Memorial is a stunning tribute to the 16th president of the United States, Abraham Lincoln, who was assassinated as he attended a theatre performance. A mammoth statue of the seated president is surrounded by a Greek Doric style temple. The memorial was dedicated in 1922, with Lincoln’s last surviving son, Robert Todd, in attendance.

Located at the west end of the National Mall, the memorial is where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous “I have a dream” speech in 1963. It also has been featured in several movies ranging from 1939’s Mr. Smith Goes to Washington to Nixon to an episode of the Simpsons. The memorial is open 24 hours a day, with National Park rangers on hand from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

4. Washington Monument

One of the most distinctive and defining landmarks in DC, the brilliantly bright white Washington Monument rises dramatically above the National Mall below. Towering 555 feet in height, the enormous obelisk commemorates the First President of the United States and his significant military achievements during the American Revolutionary War.

The tallest monument column in the world, it makes for a stupendous sight as it looms above the Reflecting Pool and Lincoln Memorial. Besides taking photos of the majestic marble structure, you can also take a trip up to its lofty observation deck. From here you can enjoy simply phenomenal views over many of the city’s most important and impressive monuments, museums and memorials.

3. United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is where Congress meets. Sessions of the Senate and House of Representatives are open to the public when the bodies are in session. Visitors need free passes, which can be obtained from their congressmen’s office. At the same time, they can also get passes to tour the Capitol building, as guided tours do not include visiting legislators in action.

The Capitol was one of the first buildings constructed by the fledgling U.S. government following the Revolutionary War. Construction began in 1793, with legislators meeting there for the first time in 1800. Central to the Capitol building is the rotunda, which lies under the dome. This is where honored citizens, such as presidents, lie in state.

2. White House

The White House serves many purposes. It is where the President works and lives with his family. It is also the symbol of the United States to the rest of the world. It is where the President officially meets with leaders of foreign nations and hosts them at state dinners.

The site for the White House was selected by George Washington, first president of this new nation, but President John Adams was the first to live in it. It was burned by the British during the War of 1812, but later reconstructed. Self-guided tours are available for visitors who plan ahead. They must request a tour through their congressman’s office 21 days to six months in advance.

1. National Mall

Visitors to Washington, D.C., won’t want to miss a stroll on the National Mall, a greenway that will take them past many of the capital’s important sites. Located downtown, the National Mall stretches on the west from the US Capitol building to the Potomac River and on the east from the Jefferson Memorial to Constitution Avenue.

Across the streets from the mall, but still considered part of it, are a variety of Smithsonian museums and the Vietnam Veterans Memorial. To the east, nearby attractions include memorials to Presidents Ulysses S. Grant and James Garfield, and the Reflecting Pool. With about 24 million visitors a year, it is the top tourist attraction in Washington.

Map of Tourist Attractions in Washington DC

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Map of Washington DC — Best attractions, restaurants, and transportation info

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Use this interactive map to plan your trip before and while in Washington DC. Learn about each place by clicking it on the map or read more in the article below. Here’s more ways to perfect your trip using our Washington DC map:

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Washington, D.C.   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Kevin Voelker Photography | Getty Images

Washington, D.C. Neighborhoods

Washington, D.C., is laid out on a grid pattern, with numbered and lettered streets intersected by diagonal avenues. Most of these diagonal avenues are named after states. Generally, streets running east to west have lettered names in alphabetical order as you travel north. So you would walk north to get from K Street Northwest to L Street Northwest. The numbered streets run north to south and increase as you travel west in Northwest D.C. and as you travel east in Northeast D.C. Therefore, you would walk west to get from 19th Street Northwest to 20th Street Northwest; you would walk east to get from 11th Street Northeast to 12th Street Northeast. Get to know the city's various neighborhoods on a guided tour  or a hop-on, hop-off bus tour .

Northwest is where you'll find most government office buildings, as well as the majority of the city's postcard-worthy attractions. This quadrant is also home to a bunch of the top nightlife and entertainment options and a burgeoning restaurant scene.

National Mall

Accessible via all Metro lines at Federal Center SW, L'Enfant Plaza, Smithsonian, Federal Triangle, Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter and Judiciary Square stations.

A beautiful green space that stretches for nearly 2 miles and serves as a central point of the city, the iconic National Mall is anchored by the U.S. Capitol  on one end and the Lincoln Memorial on the other. In the middle, the Washington Monument marks the highest peak of the city. Numerous noteworthy (and mostly free) museums line the Mall's sides, including the National Gallery of Art  and the recently opened Smithsonian National Museum of African American History & Culture . Keep in mind, the Mall sprawls over both the Northwest and Southwest quadrants.

Penn Quarter

Accessible via all Metro lines at Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter, Metro Center, Judiciary Square and Gallery Place-Chinatown stations.

Located north of the National Mall, the Penn Quarter area has a flourishing group of art galleries and restaurants, as well as some of the city's most interesting museums (like the National Portrait Gallery and the International Spy Museum). It's also where you'll find the Verizon Center – where the NBA's Washington Wizards and the NHL's Washington Capitals play, and where many major recording artists perform. The historically significant National Archives Museum  can be found nearby as well.

Accessible via all Metro lines at Gallery Place-Chinatown, Metro Center, Judiciary Square and Mount Vernon Square 7th Street-Convention Center stations.

Northeast of Penn Quarter, Chinatown is a vibrant and historic neighborhood brimming with trendy dining establishments and plenty of entertainment options. Anchored between H and I Streets and 5th and 8th Streets Northwest, Chinatown plays host to a string of hotels , clubs and shops. The area also features a plethora of Chinese and Asian-inspired restaurants.

Dupont Circle

Accessible via all Metro lines at Dupont Circle, Farragut North, McPherson Square, Farragut West and U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo stations.

Massachusetts, New Hampshire and Connecticut avenues intersect at Dupont Circle, a roundabout that lends its name to the surrounding area. This is one of the hippest areas in D.C., and it's also the heart of the city's gay community. Restaurants, boutiques and bars surround the actual circle.

Adams Morgan

Accessible via the Red, Green and Yellow Metro lines at Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle, U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo and Columbia Heights stations.

Despite its small size, the Adams Morgan area just north of Dupont Circle is another one of the city's trendiest, busiest neighborhoods. Eclectic bars, clubs and restaurants are scattered throughout. D.C.'s Metro does not directly service Adams Morgan, but the area is within walking distance of several Metro stations. Multiple bus lines also service the area.

U Street Corridor

Accessible via the Green and Yellow Metro lines at U Street/African-American Civil War Memorial/Cardozo and Shaw-Howard University stations.

To the east of Adams Morgan on U Street between 9th and 18th streets Northwest is an emerging part of the city called the U Street Corridor. Once a historically black area where blues and jazz kings like Duke Ellington and Louis Armstrong played soulful numbers in nightclubs and theaters, U Street brims with new jazz clubs, bars, shops and restaurants. Howard University, a well-known historically black university, is located to the east.

Woodley Park

Accessible via the Red Metro line at Woodley Park-Zoo/Adams Morgan and Cleveland Park stations.

Picturesque with its stately residences and canopies of trees, Woodley Park is home to the Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute , a handful of antique shops and a collection of excellent restaurants. This neighborhood sits northwest of Adams Morgan and just east of Washington National Cathedral .

Accessible via the Blue, Orange, Silver and Red Metro lines at Foggy Bottom-GWU and Dupont Circle stations, as well as the DC Circulator bus and 10 Metrobus lines – the 30-series, the D-series and the G2 bus.

Georgetown, just west of Dupont Circle, is another popular (and swanky) D.C. neighborhood. Along the district's main corridor, M Street, and housed inside converted row houses, you'll find chain stores galore, including J.Crew, Coach and Nike, among many, many others. Plus, Georgetown boasts some of the city's best   gourmet cupcake institutions, including  Georgetown Cupcake , Sprinkles and Baked & Wired . There are also quite a few restaurants with various price points and atmospheres. During your visit, you can't miss wandering along the neighborhood's cobblestone streets or heading to the waterfront to take in scenic views of the Potomac – both of which make for an ideal way to cap off a day of sightseeing. 

Foggy Bottom

Accessible via the Blue, Orange, Silver and Red Metro lines at Foggy Bottom-GWU, Farragut West, Farragut North, McPherson Square, Metro Center and Federal Triangle stations.

South of Dupont Circle is the Foggy Bottom area, where the George Washington University campus resides. The neighborhood, which was originally the main industrial portion of the city, is now largely residential. The few restaurants and bars found here mostly cater to the area's college residents, but there are a few standout attractions, including the Watergate complex (now The Watergate Hotel ) and The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts .

Accessible via the Blue, Orange, Silver, Green and Yellow Metro lines at Smithsonian, L'Enfant Plaza, Federal Center SW, Waterfront, Anacostia, Navy Yard Metro, Capitol South, Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter and Federal Triangle stations.

The smallest of the four quadrants, Southwest is home to a selection of museums right off the National Mall, including the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum , the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art and the Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden – all part of the Smithsonian Institution. The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum  and the Washington Monument also sit in this part of the city. On the most western end of the Mall are the majestic Lincoln Memorial and the beautiful Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool. And a few blocks south of the National Mall is the Thomas Jefferson Memorial, which offers superb views of the  Tidal Basin .

Accessible via all Metro lines at Union Station, NoMa-Gallaudet U, Rhode Island Avenue-Brentwood, Brookland-CUA, Fort Totten, Deanwood, Minnesota Ave, Benning Road, Stadium-Armory, Capitol Heights, Judiciary Square and Capitol South stations.

Northeast D.C. is home to the Capitol Hill neighborhood and another pocket of universities, including Trinity Washington University, The Catholic University of America and Gallaudet University. Gallaudet, notably, was founded by Congress as the world's first school of advanced learning for the deaf. The U.S. National Arboretum, a free botanical garden and research center, can also be found here.

Atlas District

This district, which refers to a portion of H Street Northeast between 12th and 14th streets, is a small but increasingly popular part of town. The area is home to a number of trendy restaurants, as well as a hip nightlife scene that tends to be less expensive than the spots in Northwest D.C.

Capitol Hill

The Library of Congress, Union Station, the Supreme Court of the United States, the Folger Shakespeare Library and a bunch of Victorian row house residences that surround the U.S. Capitol are part of a neighborhood aptly named Capitol Hill, or simply, "the Hill." Filled with many young professionals who work for U.S. senators and representatives, the area also has a good assortment of restaurants and shops. Travelers should note that Capitol Hill straddles both the Northeast and Southeast quadrants.

Accessible via the Blue, Orange and Silver Metro lines at Eastern Market and Capitol South stations.

The main point of interest in the Southeast quadrant is Capitol Hill's Eastern Market, located only a few blocks away from the U.S. Capitol. In addition to its meat and produce counters, the redbrick public market also plays host to an art gallery and a flea market.

Barracks Row, located a couple blocks south of Eastern Market along 8th Street Southeast, is named for the Marine Corps Barracks, which have anchored the area since 1801. Restaurants, bars, boutiques and even a classical acting academy line the street. Charming row houses sit nearby. 

The LEED-certified Nationals Park is situated near the Anacostia River and is home turf for the Washington Nationals professional baseball team. Across the river from Barracks Row is Anacostia, home to the Frederick Douglass National Historic Site. Note: Anacostia isn't the safest area, so you might want to steer clear after dark.

Located southwest of Washington, D.C., across the Potomac River is northern Virginia, where some of D.C.'s most iconic attractions – such as The Pentagon and Arlington National Cemetery – reside. An array of hotels and restaurants are also available here.

Accessible via the Blue, Orange and Silver Metro lines at Rosslyn, Court House, Clarendon, Virginia Square, Ballston, East Falls Church, Arlington Cemetery, Pentagon, Pentagon City, Crystal City and National Airport stations.

Arlington refers to a large swath of land across from the Potomac River in Virginia. The area is bursting with high-rise office and apartment buildings and streets lined with picturesque homes, as well as interesting shops, restaurants and bars. Plus, accommodation options are generally more affordable in this part of the Washington metropolitan area.

Accessible via the Blue and Yellow Metro lines at Braddock Road, King Street, Eisenhower Avenue and Van Dorn Street stations.

Located west of the Potomac River and south of Arlington, Alexandria is primarily a residential area. Most of the city's shops, restaurants and bars reside in the historic Old Town, which overlooks the Potomac River and features various boutique hotels. Just about 7 miles southwest is George Washington's Mount Vernon, the former estate of inaugural president George Washington.

Accessible via the Red Metro line at Bethesda and Silver Spring stations.

Washington, D.C.'s main Maryland suburbs are Bethesda and Silver Spring. Bethesda is a mainly residential area, with open-air shopping and a handful of restaurants and bars. Silver Spring has a livelier downtown area, which is all about bright and shiny modernity. High-rise apartments and office buildings scream contemporary, as do the many shops, eateries and watering holes.

Baltimore and Annapolis are approximately an hour's drive from the District and make for nice side trips from the area. Baltimore is also accessible by both MARC and Amtrak trains; MARC is the significantly cheaper option.

While you probably will not encounter any major crime as a tourist in D.C., it is still wise to be vigilant when exploring the city. Use common sense when walking around – avoid quiet side streets, especially when you are alone or don't really know where you are going, and be sure to keep your purse and wallet secure. Travelers should be particularly wary in the Capitol Hill, Atlas District and Southwest areas at night.

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Written by Becca Blond and Barbara Radcliffe Rogers Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Whether you are marveling at its white marble monuments and memorials, learning about history in one of its free museums, or getting a feel for how locals live in one of its vibrant neighborhoods, Washington, D.C. emits a pulsating energy not found anywhere else in the U.S. The District of Colombia is a city you can explore dozens of times and have a completely different experience with each visit.

Designed by Pierre-Charles L'Enfant at the request of George Washington, America's capital city sits on the Potomac River between Maryland and Virginia. It is located on land specifically set aside after the Revolutionary War to keep the federal government from being in a single state.

L'Enfant planned D.C. to feel larger than life with its wide avenues, inspirational marble buildings, public squares, and a magnificent "public walk" that is the National Mall. The city is split into four quadrants: NW, NE, SW, and SE and its layout is a street grid intersected by avenues.

First-time visitors flock to its list of must-see attractions like the White House, Capitol Building, and museums, monuments, and memorials, perfectly spaced along its park-style National Mall. But beyond these famed attractions, you will find another DC. One ruled by locals and influenced by the host of long-term international residents, that is filled with eclectic neighborhoods including U Street , Adams Morgan, Dupont Circle, and Georgetown.

This is a city where you can eat your way across the world's food scene in the space of a few miles. It is also a city that boasts a world-class arts scene and outdoor experiences from paddleboarding on the Potomac River to walking or biking along the C&O Canal towpath.

If you can avoid visiting DC in the summer, do so. Besides being unpleasantly hot and humid, summers are when you'll see the biggest crowds. The best times to visit Washington are spring and autumn.

Plan your trip to the nation's capital with our list of the top attractions in Washington, D.C.

1. United States Capitol and Capitol Hill

2. the lincoln memorial, 3. national mall and veterans memorials, 4. the white house, 5. the washington monument, 6. national air and space museum, 7. national gallery of art, 8. united states holocaust memorial museum, 9. library of congress, 10. national museum of natural history, 11. national museum of american history, 12. national museum of african american history and culture, 13. jefferson memorial and tidal basin, 14. the john f. kennedy center for the performing arts, 15. national zoological park, 16. national archives, 17. international spy museum, 18. arlington national cemetery, 19. washington national cathedral, 20. georgetown historic district, 21. smithsonian american art museum and national portrait gallery, 22. u.s. botanic garden, 23. u street corridor, 24. the wharf, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to washington, d.c., best time to visit washington, d.c..

Recognized around the world as a symbol of the United States, the Capitol is the seat of the House of Representatives and the Senate. The huge dome, based on the dome of St. Peter's in Rome, stands out above all other Washington buildings.

Like Washington itself, the building has grown over the years since the central portion was built between 1793 and 1812. The last addition, in 1958-62, enlarged the main façade where presidents take the oath. On the other side, a marble terrace offers beautiful views over the mall and the city.

The interior is resplendent with frescoes, reliefs, and paintings, especially the rotunda under the great cast-iron dome with a ceiling painting by Constantino Brumidi and huge paintings of scenes from American history on the walls. Beside it is the former Chamber of the House of Representatives, with statues of leading historical figures. The small Senate Rotunda leads into the beautifully restored Old Senate Chamber, where the Senate met until 1859, and the Supreme Court until 1935.

When free tours resume, they can be reserved online and begin at the visitor center on the lower floor, where there is an interesting exhibition on the building's history. Free tours on weekday afternoons explore the ornate paintings on the walls and ceilings of the corridors in the Senate wing, designed by Brumidi between 1857 and 1859. To visit the Senate or House in session, you need to contact your Senator or Representative for a pass; foreign visitors can arrange visits through the visitor center.

East of the Capitol are the Supreme Court Building; the Library of Congress; and Folger Shakespeare Library, home of the world's largest collection of the printed works of William Shakespeare .

The Capitol Hill neighborhood extends southeast, with the lively Eastern Market, a farmers market with craft vendors, as well.

The best-loved of all Washington's memorials, the Lincoln Memorial stands at the far end of the mall, separated from the Washington Monument by the Reflecting Pool. At its center is a 19-foot marble statue of a seated and pensive President Abraham Lincoln surrounded by 36 columns, one for each of the states that existed at the time of Lincoln's death. This is the most famous work designed by noted sculptor Daniel Chester French. Jules Guerin painted the murals on the inside walls, showing important events in Lincoln's life.

Since its completion in 1922, the Lincoln Memorial has been the scene of a number of historic events. In 1939, when the all-white Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) refused to let celebrated African American singer Marian Anderson perform at a concert in nearby Constitution Hall, President Franklin Roosevelt and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt arranged for her to give an open-air concert on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, attended by 75,000 people and broadcast to millions of radio listeners.

Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his famous "I have a dream..." speech from the memorial steps in 1963, again making history here.

Visiting this and other Mall monuments is one of the favorite things to do in Washington, D.C. at night. The monuments are all lighted, and many, like the Lincoln Memorial, are open 24 hours. The statue of Lincoln is especially powerful lighted at night inside the darkened interior of the temple and framed by the floodlit white columns.

The spacious swath of lawns and pools that form a wide greenbelt from the Capitol Building to the Lincoln Memorial is also the site of many of Washington's landmark buildings and monuments. Most prominent at its center point is the Washington Monument , and war memorials include those to veterans of World War II, the Korean War, and Vietnam.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial , a poignant wall inscribed with the names of all American servicemen and women who lost their lives or are missing, is one of Washington's most visited memorials. The nearby Vietnam Women's Memorial has a bronze sculpture of three servicewomen helping a wounded soldier. The Korean War Veterans Memorial contains 19 steel sculptures of soldiers. The newest, American Veterans Disabled for Life Memorial was dedicated in 2014.

If you look at a Washington, D.C. attractions map, you'll notice that many of them line the National Mall, so you're likely to spend a lot of time here. Along with providing a park for walking, running, and picnicking, the Mall is a place for celebrations and festivals. Best known of these is the annual Independence Day celebration with fireworks around the Washington Monument.

Also in July, the Smithsonian American Folk Life Festival fills the Mall with music, crafts, performances, storytelling, cultural programs, and food from various regions around the country. The Smithsonian Kite Festival is held here in late March or early April.

On summer evenings, you can often find military bands performing at venues along the Mall. The US Navy Band has concerts at the Capitol steps overlooking the Mall on Mondays and on Tuesdays at Navy Memorial. The US Air Force Band performs on the capitol steps on Tuesdays and at the Air Force Memorial on Fridays.

Location: Between Constitution Avenue and Independence Avenue, Washington, D.C.

The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States. The home of every president except George Washington, it was originally built by James Hoban in 1792, and after being burned down by British forces in 1814 was rebuilt in 1818.

Although tours of the interior that include the East, Blue, Green, and Red Rooms; the Ballroom; and the State Dining Room must be reserved well in advance through your Congressional office or embassy, every tourist to Washington will want to see this iconic building, at least from the outside.

The free White House Visitor Center , a short distance away, has excellent interactive exhibits, which show details about the White House and the presidential families. It includes furniture of past presidents, a model of the residence, historical changes, and videos with insights from presidents about their time living there.

The Ellipse , a 54-acre stretch of lawn stretching to Constitution Avenue, hosts summer concerts by the US Army Band. Next door to the White House are the elaborate 1833 Greek Revival Treasury Building and the 1871 Executive Office Building , one of the most striking old government buildings in Washington. From Lafayette Square, one of the city's best-known, statues of Lafayette and others overlook the White House.

Address: 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://www.nps.gov/whho/index.htm

The 555-foot white shaft of the Washington Monument is a familiar icon of the National Mall, and a beautiful sight, especially when mirrored in the long Reflecting Pool at its foot. Construction of the obelisk to honor the nation's first president did not proceed smoothly. The plan was approved by Congress in 1783, but ground wasn't broken until 1848.

When the tower reached 156 feet in height in 1854, political wrangling and lack of funds stopped the project for several years, and the Civil War caused further interruption so that the tower was not capped until 1885, when it was finally completed by the Army Corps of Engineers.

You can still see the separate stages of its building by three changes in the color of its facing stones; inside are engraved stones from states, cities, foreign countries, individuals, and civic groups, many of them donors who helped in its private funding stages. You can take an elevator to the very top for aerial views over the mall and much of Washington. The base of the monument is surrounded by a circle of 50 American Flags.

Address: 15th & Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

The National Air and Space Museum is one of the world's most popular museums, with a collection of history-making air and spacecraft that includes the original 1903 Wright Brothers Flyer and Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis , the first plane to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean.

More recent flight history is represented here by the Apollo 11 command module , part of the first manned lunar landing mission. Permanent and changing exhibitions illustrate the science, history, and technology of aviation and space flight, covering topics like the use of air power in both world wars, the space race, flight pioneers, and up-to-the-minute flight and space technology.

Many of the exhibits are interactive, and all contain actual historical objects, such as a moon rock you can touch. Not only do permanent exhibits illustrate the history, they show the how and why of flight and space science, explaining how things fly, how jet engines work, and what keeps the International Space Station in orbit.

In addition to the exhibits, there is the Albert Einstein Planetarium , an IMAX theater, and the Public Observatory on the east terrace, where you can examine lunar craters and see planets and other astronomical features through telescopes. Flight simulators (fee charged) allow kids and adults to fly combat missions with aerial maneuvers like 360-degree barrel rolls or experience naval aviation in an F-18 Super Hornet.

The museum is also the home of the Udvar-Hazy Center in Chantilly, Virginia, adjacent to Dulles Airport, and has even more historic aircraft and space exploration artifacts, including a Concorde and the space shuttle Discovery . You can watch from observation walkways through the hangars where experts are restoring historic aircraft.

The Air and Space Museum is currently undergoing a seven-year makeover that will transform not only the arrangement of 23 galleries, but the way it interprets the history and science of flight. During renovations, a number of the exhibits will be closed, so if particular exhibits are of special interest, you can consult the museum's website to find out if they are open.

Address: 600 Independence Avenue SW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.nasm.si.edu

Housed in two separate buildings connected by a tunnel, the National Gallery of Art is one of the world's premier art museums and one of the most popular in the U.S. Based on the sizable collection of financier and later Treasury Secretary Andrew Mellon, its large and diverse collection includes masterpieces of European and American paintings, sculpture, and decorative arts.

Frequent temporary exhibitions add to this outstanding permanent collection to highlight arts from cultures around the world. Among the highlights is Ginevra de Benci, the only Da Vinci painting in any American museum. Others include works by major French Impressionists - Monet, Degas, and Renoir -- and other masterpieces by Rembrandt, El Greco, and Vermeer.

The newer East Wing features sculptures by Henry Moore, a mobile by Alexander Calder, and other modern works. Free concerts are held at the National Gallery on Sunday evenings from fall through spring.

Also part of the Smithsonian Institution and located on the mall are the two museums that comprise the National Museum of Asian Art. These are the Freer Gallery of Art and the Arthur M. Sackler Gallery , which houses more than 1,000 pieces, principally Chinese jade and bronze, Chinese paintings and lacquerware, and ancient Near Eastern ceramics and metalware.

The Freer collection includes nearly 30,000 pieces of Asian artworks, including Buddhist sculptures and Persian manuscripts, one of the most extensive collections in the world. The Freer also features 19th-century and early 20th-century American art, most notably a large collection of work by James McNeill Whistler.

The drum-shaped Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden traces the history of modern art from the mid-1800s, through more than 12,000 pieces of art and sculpture. One of the highlights of the garden is Rodin's Burghers of Calais .

The National Museum of African Art displays thousands of objects representing diverse artistic styles throughout the African continent, including sculptures, masks, costumes, household objects, and ceramics. All of these Smithsonian museums are among the many free things to do in Washington, D.C.

Address: 600 Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.nga.gov

Near the Smithsonian museums, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum documents, studies, and interprets the history of the Holocaust with the dual purpose of memorializing the victims and helping the world to confront hatred and prevent genocide.

Permanent exhibits examine the rise of the Nazis and the Aryan ideology, the ghettos, key events such as Kristallnacht, the concentration camps, and the Nazi atrocities. An exhibit on Americans and the Holocaust examines US reaction to Nazis, the war, and genocide, while another features personal accounts by US soldiers and citizens who witnessed the evidence of Nazi atrocities.

The presentations draw on the enormous collections of more than 12,750 artifacts, 85,000 historical photographs, 9,000 oral history testimonies, as well as archival footage and records of survivors and their families. A visit to the museum is a sobering experience.

Address: 100 Raoul Wallenberg Pl SW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://www.ushmm.org

An underground passage with historical exhibits leads from the Capitol Building to one of Washington's little-known places to visit, the Library of Congress. It's the world's largest library, modeled on the Opera House in Paris. You can visit portions on your own, but free tours disclose even more of its beautiful interior.

Displayed here are one of the three surviving complete Gutenberg Bibles, an earlier hand-printed Bible, Thomas Jefferson's draft of the Declaration of Independence, Jefferson's personal library, and galleries filled with exhibits focusing on topics as varied as the musical careers of the Gershwin brothers and the work of editorial cartoonists and graphic artists.

Address: Capitol Hill, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://www.aoc.gov/

One of the most popular things to do with children in Washington, the Museum of Natural History explores the natural world with permanent and changing exhibits to interest all ages. Favorite exhibits include the renowned Hope Diamond and the dazzling collection of gems and minerals around it, and Ocean Hall with its stunning underwater photography and replica of a 45-foot North Atlantic Right Whale.

The Hall of Human Origins follows human evolution over six million years in response to a changing world. Children will especially like the dinosaur exhibits and the interactive Discovery Room where they can touch and play with various artifacts.

Address: Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://www.si.edu/Museums/natural-history-museum

One of the most popular of the Smithsonian's many museums that line the mall, The National Museum of American History traces the political, cultural, scientific, and technological history of the U.S. since the Revolution. It displays important pieces of Americana, including Thomas Jefferson's desk, one of Edison's light bulbs, and the original flag that inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words to The Star Spangled Banner .

But beyond these treasured national artifacts, exhibits also examine how people lived, what they ate, where they worked, how they played, what they wore, how they traveled, how they worshiped, and how they governed themselves.

Illustrating these multiple themes are artifacts that include everything from gowns, work by First Ladies, and Julia Child's complete kitchen to the Muppets and the actual ruby slippers Judy Garland wore in the film Wizard of Oz . With all the historical things to do in Washington D.C., you might think your family has had enough history. But this engaging museum houses some fascinating exhibits and artifacts of our collective past that will appeal to all ages.

Address: 14th Street NW at Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://americanhistory.si.edu

Focusing on themes of history, culture, and community, the newest of the Smithsonian museums explores changing definitions of American citizenship and equality, at the same time highlighting African American culture and that of the entire African diaspora.

Various themes are covered in changing exhibits, which center on themes such as African American food traditions and chefs, the influence of African American sports stars on the breakdown of segregation, and African craftsmanship.

Historic artifacts on display include a section of the original Woolworth lunch counter that was the scene of the Greensboro, N.C. sit-in in 1960, and the aircraft known as the "Spirit of Tuskegee." In World War II, it was used to train African American airmen in the Army Air Forces, men whose work helped trigger the desegregation of the military.

Address: National Mall at Constitution Avenue, N.W., between 12th and 14th Streets

Official site: https://nmaahc.si.edu/

The design for the domed white memorial to Thomas Jefferson, the third US president, is based on the Roman Pantheon, its low dome supported by 54 Ionic columns. Inside, appearing in a dramatic silhouette through the columns, is a 19-foot statue of a standing Jefferson, and around are engraved excerpts of the Declaration of Independence and other writings.

The monument stands alone at the far end of the Tidal Pool, which reflects the monument in its surface, and all around the edge of the water are cherry trees, a gift from Japan. These are one of Washington's greatest attractions when they bloom each spring, surrounding the basin with a cloud of pink flowers and celebrated with the Cherry Blossom Festival .

Along the Cherry Tree Walk around the Tidal Basin, the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial reflects twelve years of American History through four outdoor rooms. Each one is devoted to one of FDR's terms of office as he guided the country through the Great Depression and World War II. Unveiled in 2011, the 30-foot-high Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial is the newest along the Tidal Basin.

Address: 900 Ohio Drive SW, Washington, D.C.

Opened in 1971 and named in memory of President John F. Kennedy, the National Cultural Center overlooks the Potomac River in a state-of-the-art building designed by architect Edward Durell Stone. It is home to the National Symphony Orchestra, which hosts some of the world's greatest guest artists each year, and the Washington National Opera , one of the nation's leading opera companies.

Its three main stages and several smaller stages present over 2,200 performing arts shows and events each year, about 400 of which are free. These represent all types of music and theater, both classical and contemporary.

Joining the Los Angeles Music Center and Lincoln Center in New York as one of the three most important venues in the United States, the Kennedy Center is a major stop for visiting overseas opera, dance, and drama companies on tour.

Address: 2700 F Street NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.kennedy-center.org

The National Zoo is another part of the Smithsonian, where nearly 2,000 different animals, birds, and reptiles live in habitats replicating as closely as possible their natural environments. Of the several hundred species represented here, about a quarter are endangered. This is one of the world's best zoos, not only for the quality of the visitor experience, but for its leadership in areas of animal care and sustainability.

By far the most popular animals here are the giant pandas, part of a major initiative that began in 1972 with the arrival of Hsing Hsing from the People's Republic of China. Other zoo highlights are red pandas, Sumatran tigers, western lowland gorillas, Asian elephants, cheetahs, white-naped cranes, and North Island brown kiwis.

In the Amazonia exhibit, you can glimpse the colorful underwater life of the Amazon, where one of the world's largest freshwater fish swims beneath a living tropical forest.

Along with the cheetahs at the Cheetah Conservation Station, you can see Grevy's zebras, dama gazelles, vultures, and red river hogs, and at the highly popular Elephant Trails, you can see the multigenerational herd and learn about the elephants' life at the zoo and in the wild.

Check the day's schedule for feeding times, demonstrations, educational games, and talks. As you might expect, this is one of Washington's favorite places to visit for children.

Address: 3001 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: http://nationalzoo.si.edu

The National Archives holds permanent records of the U.S. Congress, the U.S. Supreme Court, District of Columbia courts, and some federal agencies, as well as pre-World War I military service records for U.S. Army and Confederate veterans, and pre-1940 vessel and station logbooks for the U.S. Navy.

The records are open to researchers, and in the Rotunda, you can see the Declaration of Independence , Constitution , and Bill of Rights . Exhibition galleries feature a 1297 Magna Carta and a changing group of other historically significant documents. An exhibit, Rightfully Hers: American Women and the Vote, includes documents from the suffrage movement, and in other areas are interactive exhibits and hands-on activities for all ages.

Address: 701 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://museum.archives.gov

The place for 007 wannabes, the museum covers the techniques, technology, history, and contemporary role of espionage. Many of the exhibits are interactive, and throughout the building are actual examples of real espionage equipment (including a poison dart umbrella designed by the KGB), from declassified hardware and captured equipment to movie props used in the James Bond series.

Photographs, audio-visual programs, and special effects combine to give a picture of strategies and methods behind secret espionage missions. The collections include historic spy artifacts from the Revolution and Civil War, along with a wealth of ingeniously concealed and disguised cameras and weapons, even the famous Enigma cipher machine that broke the Nazi codes in World War II.

The top floor is dedicated to real-life spies Aldrich Ames, Robert Hanson, and John Walker, detailing the actual methods and tools they used to spy on the United States, with videos describing how spies were caught. The lower floor moves from fact to fiction, filled with information and actual props used in James Bond movies.

Highlighting these is the Aston Martin DB5 that first appeared in the 1964 film Goldfinger , equipped with machine guns, oil jets, a dashboard radar screen, an ejector seat, tire slashers, a bulletproof shield, and a rotating license plate. The car actually inspired intelligence agencies to add similar features to their own vehicles.

Address: 700 L'Enfant Plaza, SW; Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.spymuseum.org

On a hillside overlooking the city from across the Potomac River, Arlington National Cemetery is filled with memorials to American history and the men and women who were part of it. Its best-known landmarks are the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier , President John F. Kennedy's gravesite, and the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial depicting the raising of the flag on Iwo Jima in World War II. The Welcome Center has maps, information (including the locations of specific graves), and exhibits telling the story of Arlington National Cemetery and its monuments.

Among these are memorials to nurses, Iran Rescue Mission casualties, and various battles and groups, including one at the graves of Lt. Cmdr. Roger B. Chaffee and Lt. Col. Virgil I. "Gus" Grissom, who were killed in a fire aboard their Apollo spacecraft. Another commemorates the seven Challenger astronauts.

In a solemn and impressive ceremony, the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is changed every hour on the hour October 1 to March 31, and every half hour from April 1 through September 30. Although the cemetery is not right in the city, both the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority's Metrorail system and Metrobus have stops close to the gate.

Official site: https://www.arlingtoncemetery.mil

The English-style, Neo-Gothic National Cathedral, one of the world's largest cathedrals, took 83 years to build, from 1907 to 1990. It follows the Gothic building style and techniques, with flying buttresses and solid masonry construction of Indiana limestone. Throughout the cathedral are artistic details to see, from its stained-glass windows to the hand-embroidered kneelers that commemorate war heroes and historic events.

Special tours, reserved in advance, explore hidden parts of the building and its art; families should ask for the brochure Explore the Cathedral with Children for a scavenger hunt to find wrought-iron animals, tiny carvings, and gargoyles. Be sure to look for the gargoyle of Darth Vader high up on the northwest tower.

The cathedral is the burial place of President Woodrow Wilson and Helen Keller, and state funerals for Presidents Eisenhower, Reagan, and Ford took place here. The top of the 300-foot central tower is the highest point in Washington.

The Bishop's Garden, on the south side of the cathedral, includes plants found in medieval gardens, plants mentioned in the Bible, and others native to the area, along with a fish pond. The 59-acre Cathedral Close, designed by the eminent landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted, Jr in the early 20th century, is an urban oasis modeled on the walled grounds of medieval cathedrals.

Carillon recitals are held each Saturday at 12:30pm, and the peal bells are rung on Tuesday evenings from 7 to 9pm and after Sunday services. On Mondays and Wednesdays at 12:30pm, a cathedral organist discusses the Great Organ here, followed by a mini-recital.

Address: Massachusetts & Wisconsin Avenues NW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: www.cathedral.org

The neighborhood from 27th to 37th Streets, between Rock Creek Park and K Street NW, is the city's oldest, with origins in the early 1700s, before Washington itself. Georgetown University , the nation's oldest Roman Catholic and Jesuit College, is located here.

Today, Georgetown's tidy streets of historic homes and its boutique shops, cafés, restaurants, and small museums make it a popular respite from lines at the mall attractions. The C&O Canal , the 184-mile waterway paralleling the Potomac River, begins here, and its towpath is a favorite place for walking and cycling.

Dumbarton Oaks is a 16-acre estate with formal gardens and a valuable Byzantine and Christian art collection. Federal period Dumbarton House features Federal-style furniture, paintings, textiles, silver, and ceramics, and is home to one of five original known copies of the Articles of Confederation.

Tudor Place is an early 19th-century mansion built by Martha Washington's granddaughter, Martha Custis Peter, and her husband. Items from George and Martha Washington's Mount Vernon home are shown here, and the Federal-period gardens contain plants and trees from the early 19th century. The Kreeger Museum displays a wide collection of art from the 1850s to the 1970s including paintings by Monet, Renoir, Sisley, Chagall, Gauguin, and Picasso.

If you're looking for places to eat in Washington or things to do at night, this is one of the places to visit. The neighborhood is filled with restaurants and cafes, along with live music venues.

Sharing the historic Old Patent Office Building with the National Portrait Gallery, the Smithsonian American Art Museum holds one of the world's largest and most inclusive collections of American art, representing more than 7,000 artists from the colonial era to the present.

The collections record the wonder of artists capturing the beauty of American landscapes as the nation expanded westward, and the changing face of American cities and towns. Special collections represent works by more than 200 African American artists, collections of Latinex works, an outstanding array of contemporary American craft and folk arts.

The National Portrait Gallery focuses on famous Americans, from the time of the first colonies to present day leaders and important public figures, including the only complete collection of presidential portraits outside of the White House.

Address: 8th and G Streets NW, Washington, D.C.

Official sites:

• https://americanart.si.edu/art
• https://npg.si.edu/

At the foot of Capitol Hill, the U.S. Botanic Garden is an oasis of tropical gardens in the center of the city. Surrounded by outdoor gardens, the huge glasshouse is the hub of a museum of living plants. Permanent interior exhibits create environments for plants at home everywhere from the desert to rainforests, while outside is a showcase of plants that thrive in the Middle Atlantic states.

The greenhouse contains two courtyard gardens and 10 garden rooms, and the outside displays include a pollinator garden, rose garden, kitchen garden, and water garden. There's always something in bloom, and benches in the vast conservatory invite a stop to enjoy the fragrances and the lush green surroundings.

Address: 100 Maryland Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C.

Official site: https://www.usbg.gov/

D.C.'s U Street Corridor is one of the city's top historic neighborhoods and served as the epicenter of Black culture in America between 1862 and 1948. Designated a historic district in 1998, this neighborhood is filled with colorful buildings housing plenty of shops, restaurants, and theaters.

It is anchored by 14 th Street on its west side and the recently renovated Howard Theatre on its east end at the edge of the Shaw neighborhood. Constructed in 1910, this was the center of Black Broadway for the first half of the 20 th Century. It fell into decline but underwent a magnificent renovation and reopened a decade ago.

Duke Ellington was born in this neighborhood and a sculpture honoring the famed jazz musician can be seen at the intersection of Florida Ave and T Street. Also check out a concert at Lincoln Theatre , built in 1922, where Ellington and other jazz greats like Billie Holiday, Nat King, Cole, and Louis Armstrong all used to play.

U Street is known for its delicious food scene. Here you'll find the acclaimed Ben's Chili Bowl , which has served everyone from Anthony Bourdain to Barack Obama. Its restaurants span the globe, however. If you are craving authentic Ethiopian fare, head to "Little Ethiopia" on the east end of U Street.

With its second phase only completed in 2002, The Wharf is D.C.'s hottest new waterfront neighborhood, home to more than 80 restaurants and shops, an iconic fish market, four hotels, and a popular live music venue. Running along the Potomac River for one mile, the neighborhood was created as part of a larger development plan for what had been a neglected portion of the SW quadrant.

Just about a 10-minute walk from the National Mall, The Wharf's waterfront location provides a totally different vibe than the memorial and museum area. The Municipal Fish Market is the country's oldest continuously operating open-air fish market, originally opened in 1805. Until the redevelopment of The Wharf, it wasn't really on the tourist map anymore. Today it is buzzing with hungry travelers and locals alike, who come here to dine al fresco on fresh fish.

If you want to get out on the Potomac River yourself, you can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore. There are also seasonal water taxis running from The Wharf to Old Town Alexandria, Virginia, across the river. Alexandria is known for its stately 18 th - and 19th-century buildings and brick streets. It's a great place to wander around for an afternoon. Water taxis also run to Georgetown.

Come evening, book a luxe riverboat dinner cruise on Potomac. These offer a wonderful way to relax after an action-packed day, and river sunsets can be phenomenal.

Official site: https://www.wharfdc.com/

Sightseeing by Day:

• Washington, D.C. has so many famous sites that it's difficult to keep track of all there is to see and do. One of the best ways to explore this city is on a classic Big Bus Hop-on Hop-off Tour , seeing the sites from an open-top red bus and getting on and off wherever you choose.

Sightseeing by Night:

• At night, Washington is transformed as the floodlights are beamed up the monuments, giving them a completely different look from their daytime appearance. The Washington, D.C. Monuments by Moonlight Night Trolley Tour is a 2.5- hour guided tour that provides an easy way to see the city at night.

Sightseeing by Bicycle:

• Active travelers will enjoy the Washington D.C. Monuments Bike Tour to visit the Washington Monument, Vietnam Veterans Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, and Jefferson Memorial on a three-hour ride. Hybrid bikes and the relatively level terrain make this suitable even for those who are not avid cyclists. As many places to visit have security checkpoints and do not allow backpacks, it is wise to carry as little as possible while touring.

Weather wise, the best time of year to travel to Washington, D.C. is between the months of March and May and September to November . You'll hit cherry blossom season (usually from late March to early April), ogle spectacular fall foliage (especially in October through November), and enjoy a long stretch of great weather free from frigid and sweltering temps.

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Places to Visit Close to Washington: If you have time to explore outside the city, there are many easy Day Trips from Washington, D.C ., and our page on Top-Rated Weekend Getaways from Washington D.C. can give you plenty of ideas for longer excursions.

Exploring Maryland : There are a number of tourist attractions in Maryland , including those in historic Annapolis and Baltimore with its lively harbor area. The state is also famous for its beaches and oceanfront resorts, many of which are within easy weekend reach from Washington. You can learn more about these on our page Top-Rated Resorts in Maryland.

Discovering Virginia : The District of Columbia lies between two states, and to its south, you can visit attractions in Virginia , including those in the capital city of Richmond . Or you could spend a weekend immersed in colonial history with the help of our page Top Tourist Attractions in Williamsburg & Easy Day Trips .

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Visiting Washington DC for the first time can be a life changing experience. The Sightseeing Pass is here to help you make the most memories and the most of your pass. Before you arrive we recommend that you learn a little about the neighborhood in which you are staying including the attractions and amenities nearby. Another good idea is to familiarize yourself with your local transit routes and stops so that the beginning of each day of discovery won’t start with a panic to find where to begin. The Sightseeing Pass and its accompanying guide is an ideal companion if you want to walk the city’s streets, visit historical places or simply undergo some retail therapy.

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15 Dreamy Dock Bars That Aren’t Too Far From D.C.

Kick off the summer season by pulling up (by boat or car) to one of these waterfront gems

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Summer around the DMV is all about the three C’s: crabs, crushes, and cruising. And there’s no better way to embrace the warm weather than to leisurely pull up by boat to a dock bar to enjoy waterfront views and local seafood, cold beverage in tow.

With plenty of scenic miles, stretching from the Chesapeake Bay to the Potomac and Rappahannock rivers, there’s no shortage of pull-up bars to tie up at. Just be sure to pack your sunscreen and bring along a designated captain. For a deeper dive inside 6 beach bars located about an hour’s drive (or less) from D.C., go here .

And for a guide to boozy Potomac boat cruises to book this season, go here .

Cantler's Riverside Inn

Picking crabs at this family-run Annapolis institution is a Maryland tradition, and the quiet waters of Mill Creek make it the ideal place to moor a boat. For customers who would rather have someone else do the work for them, go with Cantler’s crab dip, crab pretzels, and jumbo lump crab cakes.

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The Choptank

If you really want to make a splash on the scene, pull into Ego Alley, Annapolis’s city dock and enjoy a crush or draft beer from the rooftop deck seating. But be sure you know how to tie up because everyone is watching and probably judging. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Choptank Annapolis (@thechoptankannapolis)

The Big Owl Tiki Bar

Overlooking the water, this is prime place to chill once you make it past the Bay Bridge. Get a cheeseburger in paradise or soft shell crab BLT while enjoying live music.

Mike's Restaurant & Crab House

Nestle in the South River, Mike’s proves you don’t have to drive over the Bay Bridge for fat crabs and laid back vibes. Waterfront tables are typically covered in trays of the ready-to-pick crustacean. There is a chill outdoor bar with its own rooftop to take in the views. Free boat dockage and free parking for those in cars. 

The Kentmorr Beach Bar and Grill

Take in breathtaking views of the Chesapeake Bay while sipping on well-made cocktails and craft beers, all served on the white sands of Kentmorr’s own beach. Swim out for a refreshing dip, but come back for the local seafood and freshly made pizzas.

District Wharf

The Day Docks at the Wharf Marina offer hourly side-tie dockage every day during the boating season. If your stay is longer than a few hours, check out the accommodations at Market Docks. The spaces are available on a first-come basis and range between $30 to $50 an hour. But a spot here gives you access to all the bars and restaurants the Southwest Waterfront stretch has to offer. Starting this weekend, a slice of the Wharf transforms into a Pixar-themed mini-golf course through the summer.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Wharf (@thewharfdc)

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Island Time Bar & Grill

This Columbia Island Marina attraction, located right off GW Parkway, is a hidden city escape where locals in the know go for a quick bite and happy hour. Note: hours here are limited (typically noon to 7 p.m.).

Pirates Cove Restaurant & Dock Bar

With indoor and outdoor dining rooms, this tucked-away restaurant with views of the West River has it all — a great brunch, happy hour, and lively outside dock bar with live entertainment on weekends.

Vola’s Dockside Grill and Hi-Tide Lounge

Pull into the City Marina in Alexandria, which offers short-term docking for $20 an hour on a first-come basis, and stroll over to Vola’s to enjoy crab hush puppies or jumbo peel-and-eat shrimp while sipping on a pineapple-mango sangria. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vola's Dockside Grill (@volasdockside)

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Skipper’s Pier Restaurant & Dock Bar

Laid back vibes here from the waterfront chill dining room to the picnic tables outside on the deck make it the perfect place to enjoy a tray of steamed crabs. The chef also prepares creative seafood dishes, from the popular “orange crush” tuna bowl to a crispy oyster BLT. Afterwards, climb up the stairs and take in the rooftop views of Rockhold Creek over the two-story outdoor bar with a Jalapeno Pier paloma in hand.

Tim’s II at Fairview

This Virginia landmark is a great leisurely place to take in killer views of the Potomac. From the outdoor bar, to the bright indoor dining room, to the row of red-and-white chairs set up for just chilling on the beach, you are officially on #TimsTime here. You can get here by boat, car and even seaplane. A sizable menu of crabs, steamed seafood, steaks, and starters keeps patrons well-fed while downing drafts and frozen cocktails.

La Vela Italian

Looking for something upscale and romantic, this Italian restaurant with waterside views of Back Creek specializes in the flavors of southern Italy.

Dockside Restaurant and Tiki Bar

The motto here is “come for the food, stay for the people” at this beach-themed tiki bar that has year-round live music with 360-degree views of the Potomac. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dockside Restaurant & Tiki Bar (@docksidetikibar)

Coles Point Tavern

Right on the Maryland and Virginia state line, this is the only dock bar that allows you to have one foot planted in both states at the same time. Enjoy seafood pizzas, crab nachos laced with Old Bay, and Buffalo rockfish bites while taking in vistas of the Potomac.

Rappahannock Oyster Co

Oyster lovers willing to make the long trek from D.C. flock to this waterfront restaurant on the banks of the Rappahannock River to enjoy raw or outdoor-grilled bivalves just steps from where they are grown.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Merroir Tasting Room (@merroir_topping)

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Washington, DC Itineraries

Here are one-of-a-kind ideas for planning your trip to DC

Ultimate Itineraries for Treasured Memories

Monuments and memorials, eclectic neighborhoods, America's best restaurant city, true local flavor – the nation's capital is a place unlike any other. Whether you're traveling solo or with friends and family, DC is your home away from home with free museums, unique events and attractions. Plan your trip to the nation’s capital by checking out all of these great Washington, DC itineraries.

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Storms Snarl Memorial Day Travel After at Least 23 Killed

The weather disrupted flights at airports from Atlanta to Boston on Monday after powerful winds and rain battered towns across the South over the weekend.

Severe Storms and Tornadoes Cause Destruction in Several States

Severe weather hit several parts of the united states over the weekend, killing more than 20 people and leaving hundreds of thousands without power..

[NO SPEECH]

By Katie Benner and Ernesto Londoño

Follow our updated coverage of Tuesday’s severe weather here .

Severe weather stretching across the Midwest and East Coast on Monday disrupted plans for millions of Americans trying to make it home after a busy weekend that was expected to break records for Memorial Day travel. The disruptions followed storms and tornadoes that killed at least 23 people in the South and left hundreds of thousands without power.

Flights at airports from Atlanta to Boston experienced ground delays and stops as severe weather, including heavy rain and potentially damaging wind and hail, moved into much of the Eastern United States on Monday afternoon and evening.

Parts of New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania were under severe storm watches through late Monday, and a tornado watch was issued for an area from northern Maryland through eastern North Carolina, including Washington, D.C. Heat and more thunderstorms were forecast for Texas and the Southern Plains on Tuesday, including possible hail and strong winds.

Officials with the Federal Aviation Administration said that they had worked with the airlines to plan for the expected weather disruptions over the Memorial Day weekend. On Friday, 2.9 million people were screened at U.S. airports , the Transportation Security Administration said — a single-day record.

By midday on Monday, La Guardia Airport in New York City had reported average ground delays of 100 minutes. Flights were also delayed at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, the busiest in the world. And ground stops and major delays were reported or expected at airports in Chicago, Virginia, Baltimore, Washington, Philadelphia and Cleveland because of the storms, according to the F.A.A.

In Kentucky, Gov. Andy Beshear declared a state of emergency on Monday morning after four people were killed over the weekend. On Monday afternoon, Gov. Beshear announced a fifth storm-related death in the state, a person who died from a heart attack while cutting fallen trees. More than 150,000 customers in the state were without power at midday after damaging winds.

Elsewhere, a tornado left at least seven people dead in North Texas, including two children ages 2 and 5. Eight people were killed in Arkansas, and two died in Oklahoma as severe storms swept through the region, flattening hundreds of buildings and blowing away homes. And severe thunderstorms in Virginia resulted in at least one fatality, officials said.

Share of customers without power

Thousands of others in the South and the Midwest were without power on Monday, according to the tracking site poweroutage.us .

Later on Monday, severe thunderstorms were expected from Texas to New York, the National Weather Service’s Storm Prediction Center said . Flash flooding was possible from Maryland to the Catskill Mountains in New York, the Weather Service said , and tornadoes were possible in the Mid-Atlantic region.

Forecast risk of severe storms for Monday

The system was the latest to pummel the region over the past few days. Five people were killed and part of a city was obliterated in Iowa last week after a powerful tornado hit.

President Biden issued a statement of condolence to those affected by the storms, and he thanked emergency responders for their work.

“Jill and I are praying for those who tragically lost their lives as a result of devastating tornadoes that tore through Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma, leveling entire communities and leaving a path of destruction in their wake,” Mr. Biden said.

Mr. Biden said that the federal government was “ready to provide support as needed.” He noted that the Memorial Day holiday storms came just weeks after counties in the Midwest and South were recovering from severe weather.

On Sunday, severe thunderstorms in Howell County, Mo., produced hail the size of baseballs and tornadoes that downed trees and damaged homes near the town of Mountain View, said Kelsey Angle, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service in Springfield.

In Kentucky, Governor Beshear deployed the National Guard to help state forestry workers clear downed trees and dangerous debris. He activated the state’s price-gouging statute to prevent price increases on necessary supplies, and said he believed that the state would qualify for public assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

Emergency workers have reported high water, fallen trees and other dangerous conditions in about a third of Kentucky’s 120 counties, mostly in the western part of the state, Jim Gray, the Kentucky transportation secretary, said at a news conference. The storms also impacted nearly 100 state highways.

In Texas, Governor Greg Abbott s igned a severe weather disaster declaration that covered 106 counties. Officials estimate that nearly 100 people were injured over the weekend, more than 200 homes were destroyed and over 220 buildings were damaged.

Johnny Diaz and Mike Ives contributed reporting.

Katie Benner is a correspondent writing primarily about large institutions that shape American life. More about Katie Benner

Ernesto Londoño is a Times reporter based in Minnesota, covering news in the Midwest and drug use and counternarcotics policy. More about Ernesto Londoño

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News & features, winter center, news / weather news, giant pandas returning to the national zoo in dc.

By Avery Lotz, CNN

Published May 30, 2024 8:37 AM PDT | Updated May 30, 2024 8:37 AM PDT

Two giant pandas will be heading to the Smithsonian Zoo in Washington, D.C., by the end of this year. This is part of the Giant Panda Conservation Program in partnership with China.

(CNN) —  Two new giant pandas will be arriving at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo in Washington, DC, this year, the zoo announced Wednesday.

The bears, named Qing Bao and Bao Li, a pair of 2-year-old black-and-white animals, will arrive by the end of 2024 through a partnership with the China Wildlife Conservation Association, the zoo said.

In a  video announcement featuring first lady Jill Biden  planning a “black tie,” vegetarian dinner for the iconic bears, the zoo celebrated the news.

“I’m so proud to say that this long-standing program and this collaboration with our Chinese colleagues is one of the reasons why giant pandas are no longer listed as endangered, but rather only vulnerable on the global list of species at risk of extinction,” Brandie Smith, director of the zoo’s Conservation Biology Institute, told reporters Wednesday.

The institute is seeking  $25 million in public and corporate donations  to support the pandas over the next 10 years.

Chinese ambassador Xie Feng touted the journey of the “newest envoys of friendship” as a symbol of the deepening of “friendly ties” between the US and China.

“China and the United States should choose to be partners, not rivals,” Feng said. “Panda huggers should not be stigmatized. If there should be any protectionism, then let us protect biodiversity; protect the only home for the entire humanity; protect stable, sound and sustainable China-US relations and protect a better future for the younger generations.”

(Photo credit: Roshan Patel/Smithsonian's National Zoo)

Bao Li has ties to Washington: His mother, Bao Bao, was born at the zoo in 2013 and his grandparents, Tian Tian and Mei Xiang, left an unbearable panda-shaped hole in DC residents’ hearts last year when they bid farewell to the zoo.

Last year, the Smithsonian’s three giant pandas – Tian Tian, Mei Xiang and their youngest cub, Xiao Qi Ji –  departed the National Zoo , prompting concerns that the 50-year history of the bears being housed in the US capital could be coming to an end.

At the time, Smithsonian staff called the departure a “hiatus,” but Chinese officials had yet to clarify the future of the program.

In a meeting with American business leaders last November in San Francisco, Chinese President Xi Jinping  suggested China might renew the panda exchange with the United States , calling them “envoys of friendship between the Chinese and American peoples,” during a visit largely aimed at easing fraught ties between the two powers.

“We are ready to continue our cooperation with the United States on panda conservation and do our best to meet the wishes of the Californians so as to deepen the friendly ties between our two peoples,” Xi said at the time.

The return of the bamboo-loving bears may mark a new chapter of decades of “panda diplomacy.”

With tensions rising in the Indo-Pacific –  notably following large-scale joint Chinese military drills  around Taiwan following the inauguration of the island’s new president – the relationship between the US and China hangs in a precarious balance.

Zoo Atlanta’s four iconic pandas will depart for China   later this year, as the zoo’s agreement with China is set to expire in late 2024. Their journey follows the departure of pandas from the San Diego and Memphis zoos.

More pandas are set to arrive in other parts of the country, as well. In April, it was announced China would send giant pandas to San Francisco’s zoo for the first time, and the San Diego Zoo announced in February it would welcome two new black-and-white residents.

This story has been updated with additional information.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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