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.

Sarah Polk

The wife of James K. Polk (1845–9) was a strong force in the administration, writing speeches for the president.
Sequoia

Famous for its beautiful views and outdoor deck, this is a haven for people-watching as well. The American cuisine, emphasizing seafood, enhances the setting.
Sewall-Belmont House

The 1800 construction date makes this enchanting home one of the oldest on Capitol Hill, and a National Historic Landmark. It is now a museum of women’s emancipation.
Sewell-Belmont House

Built in 1750 and expanded into its current mansion size in 1800, this house is one of the most historic in Washington. It is thought that one past resident, Albert Gallatin, Treasury Secretary for Jefferson and Monroe, may have worked out the financial details of the Louisiana Purchase – which nearly doubled the size of the United States – here. The house was the only private residence burned during the War of 1812 because only from here did Americans fire on the invading British (see War of 1812). The completely rebuilt home was bought by the National Women’s Party in 1929 and remains their home today. Visitors can see the elaborate but homey period furnishings of the house’s past, as well as the museum’s fascinating collection of objects and documents fundamental to the suffragist and feminist movements in the United States, and the oldest feminist library in the US.

Hallway, Sewall-Belmont House
Shakespeare Free for All

The first two weeks of June bring free performances of works of Shakespeare in the outdoor theater in Rock Creek Park. Presented by the Shakespeare Theater, the productions are of excellent quality. Free tickets available at several sites.
Shakespeare Theatre

Top actors, directors, designers, and lighting experts are involved in every dazzling production here. Although specializing in Shakespeare, the company also mounts works by other playwrights (see Folger Shakespeare Library and Theater).
Shops at Georgetown Park

This wonderfully restored building – a former stable, power generation plant, and repair shop for streetcars – is worth seeing in itself. It is extraordinarily airy and quiet for a mall. There are high-quality fashions, art, home furnishings, jewelry, and kitchen-ware. The food court is small but pleasant.
Skylab Orbital Workshop

Kids love Skylab in the National Air and Space Museum because visitors can walk inside and see the tools, instruments, and living facilities of the actual 1973 spacecraft, although this is the backup module that never flew in space (see National Air and Space Museum).
Skyline Drive, Virginia

This delightful winding road passes 107 miles (170 km) through the mountain and valley scenery of Virginia’s Shenandoah National Park. Numerous hiking trails to isolated peaks, waterfalls, and rare forest environments begin from the main highway.
Smithsonian Carousel

In front of the Arts and Industries Building (see Best of the Rest) at the Smithsonian is a delightful authentic carousel with brilliantly painted hand-carved animals. It only operates in good weather, but don’t miss this bit of old-world fun if you have the chance. It also makes a refreshing break for kids beginning to tire of the surrounding museums.

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Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
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