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.

Hotel Monticello

Mini-suites with refrigerator, microwave, and coffee service are offered at this elegant hotel at one of the best addresses, right up from the C&O canal in Georgetown. The fixtures are beautiful – marble bathrooms and good art on the walls. The service is excellent.
Hotel Washington

You have to have cocktails at sundown on the Sky Terrace of Hotel Washington on Pennsylvania Avenue. It basically offers the best view across the city bar none - as well as being 1 block away from the White House, the Monument is straight ahead, and you can see all the way to the Pentagon and the Lincoln Memorial, as well as The Mall. You can't really beat seeing all the main Washington monuments in one sitting!
Hotel Washington

For 80 years, diplomats, politicians, and celebrities have visited the Hotel Washington, seeking its prime location next to the White House and its exceptional service. Many rooms have views of the White House or Capitol, and the top-floor restaurant offers superb panoramic vistas.
House of the Temple Library

This is a serious library with many rare items, but many people find its appeal in the insights it offers into famous Washingtonians, especially the large display on J. Edgar Hoover.
Hyatt Regency Washington on Capitol Hill

A bustling hotel that takes up an entire block. The rooftop restaurant overlooks the Capitol – dazzling at night.
Ice Skating

The fountain in the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden (see The East Building and Sculpture Garden) is frozen for ice skating in the winter, and visitors can rent skates on site.
Ida B. Wells-Barnett

This celebrated crusader against anti-black government actions also marched in the 1913 women’s suffrage rally.
In-Line Skating

Rock Creek Park has been named one of the top 10 sites in the nation for in-line skating, but most bike trails allow skaters as well. The Ski Chalet rents skates and protective gear.
Independence Day

The celebration culminates with a fireworks display synchronized with patriotic music.
Informal Team Sports

Volleyball, dodge ball, rugby, softball, team Frisbee, and even polo are played on various fields at the western end of the Mall.

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Hotel price categories

For a standard, double room per night (with breakfast if included), taxes and extra charges.
- under $100
- $100–$200
- $200–$350
- $350–$500
- over $500