Things to do in Washington D.C.
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Top 10 attractions in Washington D.C.
United States Capitol
United States Capitol is an iconic building in Washington D.C. The iconic cast-iron dome was designed by architect Thomas U. Walter, and atop it stands the bronze Statue of Freedom created by Thomas Crawford. The entire building features a neoclassical style. Its core interior spaces include the Rotunda, the Crypt, and the National Statuary Hall. The Rotunda is located directly beneath the dome. At the center of the dome is the fresco "The Apotheosis of Washington," created by Italian-American painter Constantino Brumidi in 1865. The painting hangs approximately 55m above the ground, featuring a grand composition of allegorical figures surrounding George Washington. Above the walls of the hall is a "Frieze of American History," which presents important historical scenes from the colonial era to modern times in a continuous sequence. Directly below the Rotunda is the Crypt, which displays some of the statues from the state collections. Next is the National Statuary Hall, a semi-domed hall that once served as the meeting place for the House of Representatives. Its unique arched structure creates a distinct acoustic effect where a whisper on one side can be clearly heard on the other, known as the "Whispering Gallery." Today, the hall displays statues of historical figures sent by each state, with two from each state. The visitor entrance is located at The U.S. Capitol Visitor Center, where Emancipation Hall displays the original plaster model of the Statue of Freedom, and the exhibition hall features interactive exhibits that tell the history of Congress and the building.Washington D.C. · 3.1 km from downtown
Washington Monument
The Washington Monument stands in the center of the National Mall. Built to commemorate George Washington, the first president of the United States, it is an obelisk approximately 169 meters tall, standing out prominently in the predominantly low-rise urban landscape of Washington, D.C. Construction began in 1848, but was halted for over twenty years due to funding shortages. The federal government then took over the project, and construction was finally completed in 1884. Because the two sections of stone were sourced from different periods and locations, their varying degrees of weathering have resulted in a distinct color dividing line on the monument, a clear marker of this turbulent construction history. The monument is entirely simple, devoid of elaborate carvings, and tapers to a four-sided pyramidal apex at the top. The tower is hollow inside, with nearly two hundred commemorative stones embedded in its inner walls, donated by various states, cities, organizations, and countries across the United States. One particularly special stone is a Chinese inscription donated by a person from Ningbo during the Qing Dynasty. The inscription is taken from a passage praising Washington in *Yinghuan Zhilue*, a work by Xu Jiyu, a renowned official of the late Qing Dynasty, and is the only Chinese inscription among these commemorative stones. Inside the tower, there are nearly nine hundred spiral steps, but these are not open to visitors. The only way to reach the top is by elevator, which takes about 70 seconds to reach the observation deck at a height of approximately 150 meters. While downhill ride the elevator, pay attention to the commemorative stones flashing by on the inner walls. The observation deck has two viewing windows in each of the four directions: east to the U.S. Capitol Building, west to the Lincoln Memorial, south to the Jefferson Memorial and the Tidal Basin, and north to the White House. Daily access to the tower is limited, so advance reservations are recommended.Washington D.C. · 2 km from downtown
The White House
The White House is the office and residence of every U.S. president, and since John Adams became its first resident in 1800, the building has been closely linked to the executive power of the United States. It was designed by Irish-born architect James Hoban in a neoclassical style, partially inspired by Leinster House in Dublin. The first president, Washington, personally participated in the selection of the architectural design and chose the final plan. The exterior walls were built of sandstone, and in 1798, craftsmen applied a lime-based white wash to the exterior walls to protect the porous sandstone from moisture erosion. During the conflict between Britain and the United States in 1814, British troops set fire to the interior of the building, leaving only the exterior walls standing, and post-war reconstruction began immediately. Today, the complex includes the main building, the West Wing, and the East Wing, with the Oval Office located in the West Wing. The building features an Ionic portico on the north side and a semicircular portico on the south side. It has a representative long-standing tradition of public tours — a tradition that began during the term of the third president, Jefferson, and has continued ever since, except during special periods such as wars. Visitors can enter the East Wing and some of the state floors.Washington D.C. · 1.1 km from downtown
National Mall
The National Mall is a green park in the center of Washington D.C., stretching approx. 3 km east to west, extending from the Lincoln Memorial in the west to the United States Capitol in the east, and is often called America's Front Yard. This rectangular area is lined with numerous Smithsonian museums, as well as cultural institutions such as the National Gallery of Art and the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. The most iconic structure on the mall is the Washington Monument, standing in the center. To the west of the monument, a long reflecting pool leads to the Lincoln Memorial, and to the east is the dome of the United States Capitol. The World War II Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, and many other commemorative facilities are scattered throughout, which, together with hundreds of monuments and sculptures in the surrounding area, form a memorial axis that encapsulates the historical memory of the United States.Washington D.C. · 2.2 km from downtown
Lincoln Memorial
The Lincoln Memorial is a pure white ancient Greek temple-style building built in memory of Abraham Lincoln and is regarded as an eternal statue of the United States and a symbol of Washington. It is also a well-known place for the pursuit of peace, where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech. 1. The Memorial Hall of Architectural Art is an ancient Greek temple-style memorial hall made of white granite and marble. There are 36 tall stone pillars around the outer corridor of the memorial hall, symbolizing the 36 states of the United States when Lincoln was alive. There are 48 flower decorations on the top parapet, representing the 48 states of the United States when the memorial hall was completed, and the names of the 48 states are also engraved on the lintel of the column. The memorial hall does not have a door, which means that it is always open to the world. 2. The seated statue of Lincoln climbs the high stone steps and enters the memorial hall, facing the seated statue of Lincoln carved with pure white marble in the center. His eyes are deep, his expression is stern, resolute and firm, and there is an inscription behind the seated statue of Lincoln, which means "In this temple, in the hearts of the people, always remember the memory of Lincoln, who saved the Union for the people." In Lincoln There is a stone carving of the Gettysburg Address on the left side of the seated statue, while on the right wall of the seated statue is inscribed another inaugural address by Lincoln. 3. The three-point and one-line sitting statues face the square with their backs to their backs. You can see that the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the United States Capitol form the central axis of the National Mall. The meaning here is infinite and shocking. In front of the Memorial Hall, there is a 610-meter-long rectangular reflection pool, and you can vaguely see the beautiful reflection of the Washington Monument in the pool water.Washington D.C. · 2.3 km from downtown
Capitol Hill
Capitol Hill is a neighborhood in Washington, the capital of the United States. It is named Capitol Hill because of its high terrain and similar hills, and because the U.S. Capitol Building and the Library of Congress stand here. 1. The United States Capitol The United States Capitol is the seat of the United States Congress, and it is also a symbol of the people, the people, and the people of the United States. 2. Library of Congress The Library of Congress is one of the four official national libraries in the United States. It is a federal cultural institution with a long history in the United States. It has become a treasure trove of knowledge in the world and occupies an important position in American culture. It consists of three parts: Thomas Jefferson Building, John Adams Building, and James Madison Building. The tripartite stands and the Capitol Building complements each other. The amazing collections of ancient and modern Haina and the exquisite architectural art are breathtaking.Washington D.C. · 4 km from downtown
Georgetown
Georgetown is built along the Potomac River, retaining the architectural style of the 18th and 19th centuries. There are fountains and sculptures everywhere on the streets. It is picturesque, Wisconsin Avenue is known as a shopping paradise in Washington, and Georgetown University is also located here.Washington D.C. · 2.5 km from downtown
Big Bus Tours Washington D.C.
BigBusToursWashingtonDC company specializes in providing double-decker bus sightseeing tours. There are three lines: red line, yellow line and blue line. In addition to daytime sightseeing, there are night lines. They are different combinations of more than a dozen famous attractions in Washington, including TheWhiteHouse, TheCapitolBuilding, WashingtonMonument, etc. It is very convenient to hop on and off, and the night line is even more unique.Washington D.C. · 2.7 km from downtown
Chinatown
Washington's Chinatown was formed in 1851 and has a long history. It is a historical district with rich Chinese traditions in Washington DC. Among them, the eye-catching wooden archway is officially named "Friendship Archway". In Chinatown, there are not only many Chinese restaurants, but also many Asian-style restaurants, which are crowded and lively all day long. Whenever the traditional Chinese New Year and Spring Festival are held, there are also traditional dragon and lion dances and other celebrations here, and the overseas Chinese gather here.Washington D.C. · 1.5 km from downtown
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
Thomas Jefferson Memorial is a presidential memorial built to honor Thomas Jefferson, the third president of the United States and the primary author of the Declaration of Independence. It was officially dedicated on April 13, 1943, the 200th anniversary of Jefferson's birth. The structure was designed by John Russell Pope in a neoclassical style, modeled after the Pantheon in Rome, which also reflects Jefferson's own preference for classical architecture. The building features a circular floor plan surrounded by 54 Ionic columns, with a shallow dome at the center, all constructed from white marble to create a simple and solemn appearance. Inside, a bronze statue of Jefferson stands approximately 6 m tall in the center of the rotunda. The curved walls are inscribed with core excerpts from his writings, including the Declaration of Independence and the Virginia Statute for Religious Freedom, with the text and space together forming the spiritual core of the memorial. The memorial is situated on the southern shore of the Tidal Basin along the Potomac River. The shoreline is lined with Japanese cherry trees—these trees were planted decades before the memorial was built and were a gift from Japan to the United States in 1912. During the spring blooming season, the white dome reflects on the water, framed by a sea of pink blossoms, creating one of the most recognizable views in Washington D.C. Standing on the steps, you can also take in the city skyline toward the Washington Monument and The White House.Washington D.C. · 2.9 km from downtown
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Free things to do in Washington D.C.
United States Capitol
Washington D.C. · 3.1 km from downtownThe White House
Washington D.C. · 1.1 km from downtownNational Mall
Washington D.C. · 2.2 km from downtownLincoln Memorial
Washington D.C. · 2.3 km from downtownCapitol Hill
Washington D.C. · 4 km from downtown
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
Washington D.C. · 2.6 km from downtown
Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
Washington D.C. · 2 km from downtown
Library of Congress
Washington D.C. · 3.4 km from downtown
National Gallery of Art
Washington D.C. · 2.3 km from downtown
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Washington D.C. · 2 km from downtown
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What travelers say about Washington D.C.
Flora_GuSeptember 3, 2026
5.0
The Capitol Building is a magnificent structure with a massive white cast-iron dome topped by the Statue of Liberty. It houses the offices of the U.S. legislature (Senate and House of Representatives), and many laws that have influenced the United States and the world were enacted here. Visiting the interior requires advance booking through the official website. We found the visitor center; security was very strict, and liquids were prohibited, so we had to discard all the hot water in our thermos flasks. Inside, we first watched a 10-minute historical documentary in a small theater, then were divided into groups and given headphones for guided tours. The interior was filled with ornate paintings, exquisite reliefs, and numerous statues of historical figures. The guides enthusiastically explained the furnishings and stories of the historical figures, and we also toured the Senate and House meeting rooms and members' offices.
United States Capitol
YoYo_1I8Q7O5OJuly 1, 2026
5.0
The Washington Monument looked like a giant pencil stuck in the ground, blindingly white. We queued to go in and take the elevator; my ears were ringing as I went up. Looking out the window, the plaza's pool and Lincoln Hall looked like tiny squares. An old lady pointed into the distance, saying that was her state, but I couldn't really see anything. My legs were a little weak as I came down; walking around the base, I noticed the stone's color varied from top to bottom, darker above the waist. People were lying on the lawn sunbathing, and kites floated gently in the sky.
Washington Monument
Grace_cytAugust 14, 2024
4.0
The White House is a three-story flat-roofed house. It is called the White House because the outer walls are painted white. It is where the president of the United States works and lives. If you want to visit, you need to apply to the embassy in advance, but it is said that after the 9/11 attacks, foreigners are no longer allowed to visit. When we went there, we watched from a distance through the fence and lawn outside.
The White House
泰迪小熊December 7, 2024
5.0
Came here on September 21, 2017.
Between Capitol Hill and the Washington Monument, there is a long and narrow green space, which is the National Mall of the United States. There are many national museums and memorials around the square. Each venue is very interesting and you can spend half a day visiting a single place.
If you don't have enough time, it's also good to take pictures. These buildings have different shapes, and taking pictures and checking in are very photogenic.
National Mall
mrbigbearOctober 20, 2023
4.0
The Lincoln Memorial is an iconic symbol of American history and a place of profound significance. Its majestic architecture, featuring the towering statue of Abraham Lincoln, commands respect and admiration. The solemnity of the Reflecting Pool, set against the backdrop of the Washington Monument and the Capitol, creates a breathtaking vista. Visitors are immersed in the spirit of freedom, equality, and unity, making it a must-visit destination. The memorial's role in commemorating one of America's greatest leaders and his enduring message of liberty and justice for all is truly inspiring.
Lincoln Memorial
SamueljetmanOctober 2, 2023
5.0
i had the privilege of visiting the US Capitol in Washington DC back in 2019. the tour took us through the rotunda and crypt, as well as a history of the building. definitely highly recommended for anyone who visits DC!
Capitol Hill
palettes_nyOctober 31, 2021
4.0
Located in an old town in Washington, Georgetown is the main campus of Georgetown University. Walk through the old town and climb the mountain to Georgetown University. The old town is mainly a shopping district with various boutiques and restaurants on the street. The buildings on the street are also very distinctive and full of historical charm.
Georgetown
泰宁根吴承恩April 3, 2021
4.0
For us who were visiting Washington for the first time, it was great to take this double-decker open-top bus to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Washington. We could see many iconic attractions such as the Capitol Building and the Reflection Pool.
Big Bus Tours Washington D.C.
孔垂信001November 20, 2019
4.0
There are many Chinese elements here, such as lanterns, spring couplets, and many other Chinese elements. Of course, there are also some Chinese specialty shops selling Chinese specialty snacks and Chinese specialty products. At the same time, you can also see many Chinese overseas Chinese here. Not only Chinese people can be seen, but many locals also like to come here.
Chinatown
莲子99October 22, 2020
5.0
Jefferson was also a very prominent figure in American history and served as president, but Lincoln's status was obviously higher than his. His memorial hall is exactly the same as the Pantheon, but it is not on the central axis.
Thomas Jefferson Memorial
