DK Travel : Washington, D.C.

A symbol of democracy the world over and the seat of American government, Washington, D.C. confronts visitors with stirring icons and monuments at every turn. This sparkling self-styled city on the Potomac River is full of marble and light, with beautiful landscaping touches and centuries-old architecture. Built on top of former swampland, Washington was deliberately designed into quadrants, with the US Capitol at its hub. Its many unmissable sights provide unparalleled access to the workings of government, internationally famed museums with priceless exhibits, and the cultural and spiritual foundations of the city and the nation.

1. United States Capitol

The Capitol’s design combines ancient tradition and New World innovation, perfectly invoking the spirit of US democracy.
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2. The White House

The most elegant and familiar of all the world’s political residences, the White House has witnessed some of the most consequential decisions of modern history .
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3. National Air and Space Museum

Reportedly the most visited museum in the world, and with good reason. The artifacts of one of mankind’s greatest quests – flight above and beyond Earth – are rendered even more impressive by the hangarlike architecture.
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4. National Museum of American History

Cleverly combining the “America’s attic” approach with contemporary interpretive displays, this museum exhibits artifacts ranging from political campaign buttons to early locomotives.
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5. National Gallery of Art

The National Gallery’s vast collection makes it one of the greatest art museums in the world.
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6. Library of Congress

The breathtaking interior of the largest library in the world does full justice to its 120 million items, the work fills 530 miles (850 km) of shelves.
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7. Washington National Cathedral

Ancient and modern come together in this “national house of prayer,” from the Gothic architecture to the Space Window.
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8. National Zoological Park

Animals from across the world’s varied habitats can be seen and learned about at this internationally recognized leader in animal care, breeding of endangered species, and public education.
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9. Arlington National Cemetery

Four million people each year visit these rolling lawns studded with the headstones of America’s war dead. A moving and reflective experience.
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10. Mount Vernon

George Washington’s estate and mansion is a perfect example of the gentleman-farmer roots of many of America’s founders.
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