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.

Decatur House

Stephen Decatur was a renowned naval hero when he built this Federal-style town-house in 1818, but he was killed in a duel 14 months after he moved in. It now evokes the life of 19th-century middle-class America.
Dept. of Treasury Bureau of Engraving and printing Tour

This is a must see for any currency or stamp fans. It's free, but it isn't open every day. There may be additional new restrictions as are in place with the mints now, so call EARLY-I mean like more than 6 months in advance.
Dinosaur Hall

Many kids make their first contact with the study of the natural world through their fascination with dinosaurs. The displays at the National Museum of Natural History should wow them – and there is a stunning new mammal exhibit (see National Museum of Natural History).
Dinosaurmania

The ultimate action figures, plus many genuinely informative as well as fun activities and kits, are found in the TriceraShop here in the National Museum of Natural History.
Discovery Creek Children’s Museum

This outdoor-oriented center for children aged between three and eleven years provides wonderfully engrossing activities that bring to life aspects of local nature, arts, and history. Operating from the only one-room schoolhouse surviving in the city, the museum uses the natural setting of beautiful Glen Echo Park for its programs and events. A Friday-morning program for toddlers is always popular with Washingtonians.
District Chophouse and Brewery

A great bar with good food, it caters to sports fans from the MCI Center.
Dolley Madison

Dolley’s social appeal helped her slightly awkward husband tremendously.
Dubliner Pub

An Irish pub with free-flowing pints and good solid food: try filet of salmon, lamb with mustard crust or the shepherd’s pie. Outdoor patio in summer. Irish music from 9pm.
Duke Ellington

The musical genius was a native Washingtonian. He played his first paid performance on U Street.
Dumbarton Oaks

In 1944, representatives of China, the Soviet Union, United Kingdom, and the United States developed proposals at Dumbarton Oaks for an international body to bring peace among nations. The result was the United Nations (see Dumbarton Oaks Museum and Gardens).

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