There’s no shortage of things to do in Washington, DC, from taking in the history of the National Mall, exploring its vaulted cultural institutions, ... Read More
There’s no shortage of things to do in Washington, DC, from taking in the history of the National Mall, exploring its vaulted cultural institutions, or even enjoying time in the great outdoors.
Of the 17 Smithsonian museums, all of which offer free admission, the National Air and Space Museum is a favorite (literally—it’s one of the world’s most-visited museums), thanks to its vast collection of artifacts, which includes the 1903 Wright brothers flyer and the Apollo 11 space module. Meanwhile, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts stages fantastic music and theater performances each year (400 of which are free to the public). For the best itinerary, plan two or three cultural activities during the day, then explore the city’s restaurant and nightlife scenes at night, before returning to your hotel to recharge.
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Courtesy of Anacostia Community Museum
Anacostia Community MuseumA member of the Smithsonian Institution, the Anacostia Community Museum aims to illuminate the urban experience, the shaping of communities, and the... Read More
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Nikki Kahn
Dumbarton OaksFor the last 75 years, this historic Georgetown estate has been the site of a research library and museum celebrating the arts and humanities. Dumbarton... Read More
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Leigh Vogel
International Spy MuseumThe International Spy Museum seeks to educate the public about the world of professional espionage, but it also emphasizes fun. Visitors adopt cover... Read More
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© Wim Wiskerke / Alamy Stock Photo
National Museum of the American IndianThe National Museum of the American Indian explores the native cultures of the Western Hemisphere, from the Algonquians of the Chesapeake to the Incan... Read More
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National Museum of Women in the ArtsThe National Museum of Women in the Arts honors female artists by both highlighting their creative works and presenting exhibitions about their... Read More
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© B Christopher / Alamy Stock Photo
National Museum of Natural HistoryThe National Museum of Natural History investigates the world and its creatures, examines ancient rituals, and explores the unfolding universe. Be sure... Read More
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Rock Creek ParkRock Creek Park is the oldest urban park in the National Park Service system; at more than 2,000 Northwest DC acres, it covers some serious... Read More
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Supreme Court of the United StatesIt’s exciting enough just to walk up these famous steps, upon which so many crucial, course-altering decisions have been announced. But the best part... Read More
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United States Holocaust Memorial MuseumA visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum is at once heart-breaking and inspiring. The museum shares the narrative history of the Holocaust... Read More
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The Phillips CollectionThe nearly 100-year-old Phillips Collection showcases modern art and impressionist paintings. The permanent collection here includes Renoir’s famous... Read More
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Carol Highsmith
U.S. Botanic GardenWith two outdoor gardens and an indoor conservatory, the United States Botanic Garden features plants from all over the world. Explore all types of... Read More
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Carol Highsmith
U.S. National ArboretumTake a break from the cityscape with a visit to the U.S. National Arboretum, where you can stroll through its azalea gardens, tour the National Bonsai... Read More
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Karen Massier
Embassy RowMore than 160 embassies and diplomatic missions have homes in Washington, DC, many of them populating a strip of Massachusetts Avenue called Embassy Row... Read More
