Washington, D.C.
- Home to dozens of unrivaled American museums, memorials, monuments, and political artifacts.
- Stroll the 2-mile long National Mall by foot to see many of the city’s landmarks on one trip.
- Peruse the high-end boutiques in the historic Georgetown neighborhood, the trendiest area of the capitol.
- Visit Dupont Circle for a wide assortment of options for upscale dining, nightlife, dancing, and shopping.
A Monumental Experience
From the venerable marble of famous monuments to museums filled with treasures, Washington, D.C., takes the concept of maximalist experience and imbues it with a sense of quiet awe. Visitors flock here for a taste of American history, art history, the history of the world itself. They also feast at some of the best restaurants on the planet and revel at clubs of every description. While much of the city rushes about with meetings and agendas, we'll ensure you're instead a spectator to its more charming moments: the pink and white of cherry blossoms in spring, a refreshing cruise on the Potomac, the subtle majesty of the monuments lit at night and reservations when and where you need them.
Quick Facts
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Founded
1791 -
Suggested Airports
Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) -
United States
Capital -
Shoulder Season
Summer and Fall -
Distinct Seasons
Warm summers and falls, cool winters
Fresh Things To Do
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Eat at Juniper
Locally harvest ingredients, a rooftop that plays host to honeybees and courtyard gardens are just a few of the reasons to visit this sustainable restaurant. Reservations are recommended.
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Lincoln Memorial
You can visit the Lincoln Memorial and the Reflecting Pool in one trip, as the waters are located at the steps of the memorial. An iconic image of Washington, the monument hosts 24 million visitors each year.
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Craft Breweries
Away from the National Mall, there is a burgeoning craft brew scene in Washington D.C. Visit Bluejacket Brewery, DC Brau Brewing Company, 3 Stars Brewing Company and Atlas Brew Works for flights of cold beer.
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Historic Media
Located between the White House and the U.S. Capitol, the Newseum is a well-known attraction. On display are Pulitzer Prize-winning photographs, historic artifacts, interactive exhibits and a 4-D theater.
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The Kennedy Center
Seventeen acres overlooking the Potamac River is home to a living memorial to President Kennedy. This is the nation's busiest arts facility. Enjoy performances by the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera.
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National Gallery of Art
At the National Gallery of Art, you can appreciate the masterpieces of household names such as Vincent van Gogh and Pablo Picasso as well as touring exhibitions and installations from a variety of award-winning collections.
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Featured Activity
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National Gallery of Art
Through its own vast collection displayed in multiple buildings and various exhibits on loan from other galleries, the National Gallery of art is a must-see during your trip to Washington DC. Located on the National Mall, the Gallery is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., closed only on January 1 and December 25.
Guided tours. Take advantage of complimentary tours, held daily and led by docents. Let these research experts walk you through the history of Italian Renaissance, French, American and modern art. A guided tour is the best way to maximize a visit to the gallery.
Sunday Evening Concerts. On Sunday evenings from October to May, concerts are held at 6:30 p.m. in the West Building Garden Court. Complimentary films and lectures are also presented on a regular basis.
Pavilion Café. Enjoy a steaming hot chocolate or gourmet pizza on-site at the Pavilion Café, where you can people watch, fuel up for more walking and enjoy a panoramic view of the Sculpture Garden.
For more information about vacationing in this destination, contact your Care team.
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Washington, D.C. Travel Tips
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The National Cherry Blossom Festival
This three-week festival occurs every spring in Washington DC during peak bloom season, when 70% of the trees that surround the Tidal Basin have blossomed. As it changes year to year, check the National Park Service site for the most current bloom schedule.
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Smithsonian Institutions
Admission for all 15 Smithsonian museums and the National Zoo is complimentary. Check out the Air and Space Museum, Natural History Museum and the American History Museum. If you're staying for a week, seeing three or four is a reasonable number.
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Metrorail
If you don't have a rental car reservation, know that the public transportation system in DC is safe, clean and reliable. Talk to your Member Services team about how best to navigate the city as it pertains to your itinerary.
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Monuments at Dusk
Avoid the crowds at the Washington Monument, the Lincoln Memorial, Jefferson Memorial and others by visiting them at dusk, an off-peak time of day. The lighting will be better for photography, allowing you to take advantage of a beautiful sunset backdrop.
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Weather
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Forecasting Your Washing D.C. Vacation
Late spring to early fall are the ideal times, from a temperature perspective, to stroll the nation's capital. But we also love the cooler climes of winter, when a good coat and much smaller crowds make sightseeing a very relaxed experience.
