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.

William Boyd Allison

Allison (1829–1908) was a major force in shaping US laws passed in the 19th century.
Windsor Inn

Two 1920s buildings offer big hotel amenities in a charming and personable environment. The main building is on the National Register of Historic Places, and has some marvelous Art Deco ornamentation. Evening sherry in the lounge. No elevator.
Winston Churchill

A 1966 sculpture by William M McVey symbolizes the friendship between Britain and the US (see Dumbarton Oaks).
Wolf Trap

An open-air venue for big names in entertainment.
Wolf Trap Jazz and Blues Festival

This three-day festival presents top performers of both traditional and contemporary jazz and blues. The all-day Saturday show is a blast.
Wooden Figures and Tableware

These marvelous carvings capture African skill and vision in the use of wood. In the National Museum of African Art.
Woodrow Wilson

Wilson (1913–21) was a quiet academic who faced the greatest foreign task the nation had seen – participation in World War I. Wilson successfully promoted a legislative program that controlled unfair business practices, reduced tariffs, forbade child labor, and improved the banking system.
Woodrow Wilson House

The 28th president was exhausted and demoralized when he left office in 1921, but this Georgian Revival house must have done much to restore his spirits. It now gives a delightful insight into 1920s American life.
World War II

More than 10 percent of the US population of approximately 115 million was in uniform at the peak of the war, and the central management of these troops remained in Washington.
World War II Memorial

This 7.5-acre memorial, built to honor US veteran soldiers and civilians of World War II, includes commemorative columns, a Freedom Wall, landscaping, and fountains.

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