These are the best places to travel this summer

Washington, DC

Shop

Get even more with a Lonely Planet guide.

Shop Book
Cherry blossom season at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.

© Grant Czerwinski

LONELY PLANET’S RECOMMENDED eSIM

Stay connected in Washington, DC

with

Saily is an affordable eSIM service that helps you stay connected and secure, anywhere in the world.

Get your eSIM

Overview

The USA's capital teems with iconic monuments, vast museums and the corridors of power. But look closer and you'll have a sharp view of one of America's most diverse art and culture scenes.

Attractions

Must-see attractions

  • The Capitol, Washington, DC

    US Capitol

    Washington, DC

    Since 1800, this is where the legislative branch of American government (ie Congress) has met to write the country's laws.

  • National Air and Space Museum

    National Air and Space Museum

    Washington, DC

    The legendary exhibits at the National Air and Space Museum include the Wright brothers' flyer, Chuck Yeager's Bell X-1, Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St…

  • Holocaust Memorial. Shooting Location: Washington, DC

    United States Holocaust Memorial Museum

    Washington, DC

    Image bykanzilyou/GettyRF

  • National Gallery of Art on the National Mall during spring in Washington D.C.

    National Gallery of Art

    Washington, DC

    Two buildings. Hundreds of masterpieces. Infinite enjoyment. It's easy to spend a full day at the National Gallery of Art, which showcases a whole range…

  • 500px Photo ID: 100166741 - Pre-dawn at the Lincoln Memorial. "In this temple, as in the hearts of the people for whom he saved the union, the memory of Abraham Lincoln is enshrined forever."

    Lincoln Memorial

    Washington, DC

    Anchoring the National Mall's west end is the hallowed shrine to Abraham Lincoln, who gazes across the Reflecting Pool beneath his neoclassical, Doric…

  • National Museum of African American History and Culture, facade

    National Museum of African American History & Culture

    Washington, DC

    Located in Washington, DC, the sensational National Museum of African American History & Culture is devoted exclusively to the documentation of African…

  • Vietnam Veterans Memorial

    Vietnam Veterans Memorial

    Washington, DC

    In a city of classic, white-marble monuments, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial stands out on the National Mall for its stark modernism. Designed by 21-year…

  • Cherry blossom season at the Thomas Jefferson Memorial.

    Jefferson Memorial

    Washington, DC

    Set on the south bank of the Tidal Basin amid the cherry trees, this memorial honors the third US president, political philosopher, drafter of the…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip

Best Things to Do

Packed with historical sites, incredible museums and endless options for food and nightlife, these are the top things to do in Washington, DC.

Read article

Best Time to Visit

Here's your guide to the seasons in DC, from when to see cherry blossoms in bloom, to when to avoid the crowds.

Read article

Things to Know

With so many museums and landmarks to see, a trip to Washington, DC, requires a bit of pre-planning. Here are our tips.

Read article

Transportation

Find your way around Washington, DC, with this guide to transit options in the US capital.

Read article

Free Things to Do

Washington, DC is an expensive city but there are plenty of free things to do if you know where to look. Here are 19 of our favorites.

Read article

Best Neighborhoods

After you’ve checked all the monuments off your list, spend some time in DC’s neighborhoods to find out what makes the city tick.

Read article

Day Trips

From charming towns to staggeringly beautiful parks, there are incredible day-trip options from Washington, DC. Here are six of our favorites.

Read article

Money and Costs

Washington, DC, has a reputation for being expensive. Here are our tips for visiting on a budget.

Read article

Traveling with Kids

All the insider tips on how to make the most of a family trip to Washington, DC, whether you're traveling with toddlers or teens.

Read article

LGBTIQ+ Travel

Washington, DC, has the highest percentage of LGBTIQ+ residents in the United States, so you'll find ample options for making the most out of your trip.

Read article

Get a book. Get inspired. Get exploring.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Washington, DC