VIDEO: Five Things to Do in Washington, D.C.

Capital of the United States, bustling college town, shrine to history: there’s something for every kind of traveler in Washington, D.C. Did you know that D.C. has a booming craft beer scene? DC Brau, which opened in 2009, was the first craft brewery within city limits. Head here or to Blue Jacket, 3 Stars, Atlas Brew Works—or all four for an epic D.C. beer crawl.

Of course, a perfect weekend in D.C. isn’t unlike taking a trip around the world. After all, the city is home to more than 175 embassies or foreign cultural centers. See if you can guess the nations of all the flags on Embassy Row, or take a tour of the State Department’s Diplomatic Reception Room.

One of the most fun things to do in Washington, D.C. is to check out the markets. The exploding restaurant scene can be sampled at Union Market (try the local cheeses and butchered meats) or Eastern Market.

Take a note out of Duke Ellington’s book when deciding what to do in Washington, D.C. The jazz legend called the U Street neighborhood home for most of his childhood, and it’s where he had his first paid performance. A walking tour to learn more about the area’s history is well worth the time.

Keep moving as you head to Rock Creek Park, which stretches an impressive 1,700 acres. As you jog or stroll along the trails, don’t be surprised if you spot a great horned owl or snapping turtle.

History and global politics, of course, are in great supply, of course: and they’re not overrated. Get a free tour of the monuments on the Mall through the National Parks Service, and spend time at the National Museum of History. Get your daily downloaded of current events at the Newseum, which, among other things, displays the front pages of newspapers around the world.

• By Travel + Leisure
• By Travel + Leisure Staff