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.

The Watergate Hotel

Rooms are large with separate seating areas, and often a balcony. A full health club, a beauty salon, and an indoor pool and sauna are provided. All rooms have Internet access, voice mail, and fax. The location on the Potomac is hard to beat.
The White House

The most elegant and familiar of all the world’s political residences, the White House has witnessed some of the most consequential decisions of modern history .
The White House

Beautiful from any angle and still glowing from its repainting in the 1990s, the White House is a symbol of US political power and of democracy throughout the world.
Theodore Roosevelt

The dawning of the 20th century brought an energetic and activist president to the helm. Roosevelt (1901–09) became famous for his military exploits in the Spanish-American war, but is best known for his opposition to business monopolies and pursuing a strong foreign policy. He also established the US national parks system.
Theodore Roosevelt

Paul Manship’s work shows the president gesticulating to his listeners.
Theodore Roosevelt Island

This wooded island on the Potomac River is the perfect memorial to the president remembered as a conservationist. A 17-ft (5-m) statue of Teddy Roosevelt is the centerpiece of what otherwise is a monument to nature – a space for birdwatching, hiking, and fishing.
Thomas Jefferson

Jefferson (1801–09) is remembered for his embrace of democracy and his opposition to federal power.
Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings

The press commented in the early 1800s that Jefferson had had an affair and borne children with his slave, Sally Hemings. Jefferson denied the accusations, but now DNA evidence makes the connection probable.
Tony Cheng’s Mongolian Restaurant

Diners choose their own ingredients for a chef-prepared barbecue.
Topaz

The striking interiors here are in the highest contemporary style, with exquisite design. The Topaz Bar is among the best in the city, and hotel services include a daily horoscope.

Jump to top

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
Restaurant price categories

For a three-course meal for one with half a bottle of wine (or equivalent meal), taxes and extra charges.
- under $30
- $30–$50
- $50–$75
- $75–$100
- over $100