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.

Anderson House

This astounding Beaux Arts mansion from 1905 is decorated in the eccentric style of its original resident, Ambassador Larz Anderson. Its 600-ft (180-m) long ballroom is spectacular.
Andrew Jackson

The success of Jackson (1829–37) as a leader in the Battle of New Orleans in 1814–15 made him a national hero. His popularity helped him win battles with Congress and with private business interests over issues such as banking and tariffs.
Andrew Jackson

This heroic equestrian statue was created by Clark Mills in 1853.
Andrew Jackson and the Petticoat Affair

Margaret Eaton, wife of President Jackson’s secretary of war, was rumored to have had a scandalous past. Jackson defended her honor and his enemies attacked, threatening his presidency.
Annapolis, Maryland

This enticing city on the Chesapeake Bay is one of the great sailing centers on the East Coast as well as being home to the US Naval Academy. It has a bustling business district and numerous historic houses, such as the home of William Paca, the governor who signed the Declaration of Independence.
Anthony Williams

Elected mayor in 1998, he has streamlined administrative and fiscal operations.
Appalachian Spring

This shop might as well be an informal museum, considering the quality of many of the hand-made crafts for sale. The quilts, carved wood, pottery, and fabrics would grace any setting.
Arena Stage

Internationally renowned as a pioneering theater, for over five decades Arena has produced some of the highest quality drama anywhere. Its three theater spaces present as many as 24 performances each week of innovative, award-winning plays.
Arlington Cemetery

A visit to this solemn burial ground brings conflicting emotions – pride in the determination of defenders of freedom, pleasure in the presence of its great beauty, but dismay at the loss of so many lives marked by the arrays of headstones (see Arlington National Cemetery).
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.