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.

Federal Bureau of Investigation Building

The FBI tour has been a favorite with visitors since it was launched in 1937. Visitors on the one-hour tour learn about the history and goals of the bureau, pass through working laboratories analyzing forensic evidence, then watch a demonstration of officers training in the use of firearms. Although tours by members of the public are no longer allowed at the time of writing, this situation is expected to change in 2006. If you would like to visit, call ahead to make inquiries.
Federal Reserve Building

Another gleaming white design by Paul P. Cret, architect of the Folger Shakespeare Library (see Folger Shakespeare Library and Theater). The Federal Reserve System is the central banking authority in the United States, regulating and facilitating both banking and the flow of currency and financial transactions.
FedEx Field

The Washington Redskins are something of a local religion. At home games, the cigar bar, club seating levels, and luxurious suite- and box-seating are filled with lobbyists, campaign donors, and activists schmoozing with each other.
Filmfest D.C.

This top-quality and lively film festival has brought the best of world cinema to the city for over 15 years. The most exciting new films are shown during two weeks in April at various venues, and discussions and film-oriented events are held at theaters, auditoriums, and cafés.
First Division Monument

A shining tribute to the First Infantry Division of World War I.
Folger Shakespeare Library and Theater

The Folger has the world’s largest library of printed editions of Shakespeare’s works, and fascinating displays give viewers an insight into Shakespeare and his times. There is also a huge supporting collection of Renaissance works in other fields, as well as playbills, musical instruments, and costumes. The elegant Neo-Classical building, a 1929 design by Paul Philippe Cret, is on the National Register of Historic Places (see Shakespeare Theatre).
Folger Theater

Visitors get a unique experience in the Elizabethan Theatre, which strongly suggests the setting in which Shakespeare’s works were originally performed. Works of the Bard and his near contemporaries are featured, and performances of medieval and baroque music fill the schedule (see Folger Shakespeare Library and Theater).
Ford’s Theater

The theater where Lincoln was shot on April 14, 1865 (see March on Washington), has been restored by the federal government and is now a memorial to the president and his love of theater and music.
Ford’s Theater

John Wilkes Booth shot Abraham Lincoln in a balcony box here on April 14, 1865 – a tragic event that has made Ford’s Theater one of America’s best-known historical sites. A museum contains Booth’s .44 caliber Derringer pistol and other objects and information giving insights into Lincoln and the assassination plot. The restored building also houses theater productions. Directly across 10th Street is Petersen House, where Lincoln died after being carried from the theater.
Ford’s Theater

The tragedy of Lincoln’s assassination here in 1865 kept this theater closed for over 100 years, but now it is the home of a vibrant theater company as well as being a museum and historic landmark. Top-notch performers and directors stage plays expressing human values in a multicultural world.