ATTRACTIONS
Amusements
Bureau of Engraving and Printing, The
Located at Fourteenth & C Streets
202-874-2330, 866-874-2330
The largest producers of security documents in the United States, this center prints billions of Federal Reserve Notes for delivery to the Federal Reserve System each year. Self guided 35 minute tours are available where visitors will see currency printed at the rate of 8,000 sheets per hour. more...International Trade Center
1300 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20004
202-312-1300
The tallest building in Washington, D.C., this trade center is the first and only federal building dedicated to both government and private use. A diverse food court, fine dining restaurants, world-renowned entertainment, and impressive works of art are a part of this official world trade center. more... mapNational Aquarium
14th Street and Constitution Avenue, Northwest • Washington, DC 20007
Located in Lower Level of the Commerce Building
202-482-2825
The oldest aquarium in the nation, this historic National Aquarium houses more than 80 exhibits with over 200 species of salt and freshwater marine life, including endangered species; on display. more...Supreme Court of the United States
Located at First Street & Maryland Avenue
202-479-3211
The most powerful court in our country, this famous court offers a variety of educational programs for visitors, as well as lectures in the courtroom typically given every hour on the half-hour. Exhibits, which are changed periodically, and a theater, where a film on the Supreme Court is shown, are located on the ground floor. more...Tidal Basin Pedal Boats
Located at Ohio Drive & Tidal Basin Northwest
202-484-0206
The whole family will enjoy this unique activity which takes place in the shadow of the Jefferson Memorial from March through September.
Historic Homes & Buildings
Decatur House (circa 1818)
1610 H Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20006
202-842-0920
One of the oldest surviving homes in Washington, D.C., this historic house was built for naval hero Commodore Stephen Decatur and is one of only three remaining residential buildings in the country designed by Benjamin Henry Latrobe. Guided tours are available and their are changing exhibits on display in the onsite gallery. more... mapFrederick Douglass National Historic Site (circa 1877)
1411 West Street Southeast • Washington, DC 20020
202-426-5961
Dedicated to preserving the legacy of the most famous African American of the 19th century, this is the former residence of African American abolitionist Frederick Douglass where he lived from 1877 to 1895. Ranger led tours are available of the home which provides detailed information about the last 18 years of Mr. Douglass' life. more...Jewish Historical Society of Greater Washington (circa 1876)
600 I Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20001
202-789-0900
The oldest synagogue building in Washington, this historic house museum retains various parts of its original construction and features displays of personal memorabilia, loaned from nearby residents, which capture the Jewish culture. mapOld Stone House (circa 1765)
3051 M Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20008
202-426-6851
One of the oldest known structures remaining in the nation's capital, this simple 18th century historic house was built and inhabited by common people and is surrounded by a beautiful English garden that is a popular and restive oasis. Interpretive talks and group programs limited to 25 people in the house are available. more... mapOxon Hill Manor (circa 1928)
6901 Oxon Hill Road • Oxon Hill, MD 20745
Located Near the Woodrow Wilson Bridge
301-839-7782
The land and former mansion, destroyed by fire in 1895; was home to the nephews of George Washington and the nephew of John Hanson, the first president elected by the Continental Congress under the Articles of Confederation. Designed by Count Jules Henri de Sibour and built for Sumner Welles, Undersecretary of State in the Franklin D. Roosevelt administration; the present 49-room, Georgian-style manor house features a museum for fine art and John Hanson memorabilia. A frequent visitor of Oxon Hill Manor, Hanson died here in 1783 and is believed to be buried in the estate’s cemetery. Oxon Hill Manor is available for meetings, receptions, weddings and other special events. more... mapSurratt House Museum (circa 1852)
9110 Brandywine Road • Clinton, MD 20735
Located 12 Miles Northwest of Washington D.C.
301-868-1121
Restored by the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Surratt House was not only the country home of Mary Surratt, the first woman to be executed by the United States government after being found guilty of conspiring with John Wilkes Booth to assassinate Abraham Lincoln, but it has served as a tavern, post office, polling place and a safehouse for the Confederate underground during the Civil War. It presents a variety of programs and events and houses an extensive library and gift shop. The museum is open for public tours from mid-January to mid-December. Surratt House is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. more... mapTudor Place (circa 1816)
1644 Thirty-First Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20007
202-965-0400
Get a rare glimpse into American cultural and social history while at this historic, elegant Neoclassical house which was designed by Dr. William Thornton, who also designed the U.S. Capitol, and which was once the home of Martha Custis Peter, the grandaughter of Martha Washington. The gardens and the house museum's collections are as rich and interesting as the home itself and the collection includes over 100 objects that belonged to George and Martha Washington. more...White House, The
1600 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20500
202-208-1631
Originally constructed between 1792 and 1800 by James Hoban, this well known historic Federal style house was reconstructed in 1815 after being burned by British soldiers during the War of 1812. It has been the home of every president of the United States since John Adams and the exterior of the main structure remains much as it was in 1800. more... map
Historic Sites & Monuments
African American Civil War Memorial
Located at Vermont Avenue & U Street
202-667-2667
"The first and only national memorial and museum for United States colored troops in the Civil War," this memorial commemorates the more than 208,000 African American soldiers who fought in the Civil War. more...FDR Memorial
1850 West Basin Drive Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
Located Near the Jefferson Memorial
202-376-6704
Situated on seven and a half acres, this memorial depicts the 12 pivotal years of Franklin Delano Roosevelt's presidency through a series of four outdoor gallery rooms. The rooms contain ten bronze sculptures depicting President Roosevelt, Eleanor Roosevelt, and events from the Great Depression through World War II.Jefferson Memorial
Fifteenth Street Southwest • Washington, DC 20007
Located at the South End of the Tidal Basin
202-426-6841
Situated beneath a marble rotunda, this 19 foot statue of the third United States President is surrounded by passages from the Declaration of Independence and other famous Jefferson writings.Korean War Veterans Memorial
900 Ohio Drive Southwest • Washington, DC 20007
Located at the Lincoln Memorial
202-426-6841
Nestled on over a two acre site, this memorial features a sculptured column of 19 foot soldiers arrayed for combat with the American flag as their symbolic objective, as well as a 164 foot mural wall that is inscribed with the words "Freedom Is Not Free" and is etched with 2,500 photographic images of nurses, chaplains, crew chiefs, mechanics, and other support personnel. more... mapLincoln Memorial
900 Ohio Drive Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
Located at West Potomac Park
202-426-6841
Designed to resemble a Greek temple, this grand monument overlooks the Reflecting Pool and is a 19 foot marble statue of the 16th United States President. The statue has 36 Doric columns, one for each state at the time of Lincoln’s death, and is flanked by inscriptions of his Second Inaugural Address and his famous Gettysburg Address. more... mapNational Law Enforcement Officers Memorial
400 7th Street NW, Suite 300 • Washington, DC 20004
202-737-3400
This elegant marble wall memorial displays the names of more than 14,000 federal, state, and local law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty. Interactive video displays, children's activity packets, and walking tour brochures and maps are available at the visitors center. more... mapU.S. Navy Memorial & Naval Heritage Center
701 Pennsylvania Avenue • Washington, DC 20004
202-737-2300
Founded in 1977, this center and memorial honors all service personnel who have served in the sea services and perpetuates their heritage, values, and traditions. A wide variety of school and military concerts, films, lectures, and events are held here. more... mapVietnam Veterans Memorial
Located at Constitution Avenue & Henry Bacon Drive
202-634-1568
Names of the 58,209 Americans missing or killed in the Vietnam conflict is printed upon the black granite walls of this moving V-shaped memorial. Designed by Frederick Hart, this life-size bronze sculpture also depicts three young servicemen. more...Vietnam Women's Memorial
Located at Twenty-First & Constitution Avenue
202-426-6841
Nestled in a grove of trees across from the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, this 2,000 pound bronze statue was designed by Santa Fe-based sculptor Glenna Goodacre and it depicts three servicewomen and one wounded soldier supported by sandbags.Washington Monument
Located at Fifteenth & Constitution Avenue
202-426-6841, 800-967-2283
One of the tallest masonry structures in the world, this magnificent monument was built in 1885 in memory of the first President of the United States, known as the "Father of his Country," in recognition of his leadership in the cause of American independence. Several interpretive talks at the monument are available upon request. more...
Libraries & Research Centers
Library of Congress
10 First Street • Washington, DC 20007
Located on Capitol Hill
202-707-8000
The largest library in the world, this library is also the oldest federal cultural institution in the nation and it serves as the research arm of Congress. Nearly 128 million items on approximately 530 miles of bookshelves are featured at the library with collections including over 29 million books and other printed materials, almost three million recordings, 12 million photographs, close to five million maps, and 57 million manuscripts. more... mapU.S. National Archives & Records Administration
Located at Seventh and Pennsylvania Avenues
202-501-5000
The original Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights are housed at this center that also contains over three billion historic records. more...
Museums & Galleries
Anacostia Community Museum, The
1901 Fort Place Southeast • Washington, DC 20013
Located in Southeast Washington, D.C.
202-633-4820 (Main Office)
Bordered by the Anacostia and Potomac Rivers on the west, in the city’s Ward 8; the predominantly African American Anacostia is one of the District’s first suburbs. Established in 1967 as the Anacostia Neighborhood Museum, the Smithsonian's Anacostia Community Museum "documents and interprets the effect of historical and contemporary social and cultural issues on communities." more... mapBillingsley House Museum (circa 1740)
6900 Green Landing Road • Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
9 Miles East of the Washington Beltway (I-95)
301-627-0730
A brick Tidewater Colonial plantation house situated on 430 acres overlooking the confluence of the Patuxent River and the Western Branch, Billingsley House Museum is one of the oldest structures remaining in Prince George’s County. Billingsley House Museum is open to the public on Sundays from 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. more...Capital Children's Museum
800 Third Street Northeast • Washington, DC 20002
202-675-4120
A unique educational complex that features over 30,000 square feet of hands-on interactive exhibits which focus on culture, the arts, and sciences. Children and families can explore the art of animation, drive an authentic Metro bus, do science experiments in a real chemistry lab, discover the origins of hot chocolate, or climb an ancient Mayan pyramid while at this museum. more... mapCorcoran Museum of Art
500 17th Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20006
202-639-1700
One of the oldest art museums in the United States, the Corcoran Museum of Art's permanent collection includes 19th-century American prints and drawings and 20th-century paintings, sculptures and photographs. Major temporary exhibitions are held yearly. more... mapDAR Museum
1776 D Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20006
202-879-3241
This museum of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution features 32 period rooms which contain a superb collection of pre-1840s furnishings. A wonderful gallery with changing exhibits is also featured in the museum. more... mapDarnall's Chance House Museum (circa 1742)
14800 Governor Oden Bowie Drive • Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
301-952-8010
With special emphasis on the lives of mid-18th century women, Darnall's Chance House Museum is a historic house museum situated between Schoolhouse Pond and St. Mary's Catholic Church that strives to interpret and study the history and culture of 18th century Prince George's County, Maryland. more... mapDumbarton House (circa 1804)
2715 Que Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20007
202-337-2288
First owned by Joseph Nourse, Register of the U.S. Treasury for the first six Presidents of the United States, Dumbarton House is a fine example of Federal period architecture. During the docent-led tours, which begin with a short video describing the history of the house and its varied owners, guests are able to view Federal period architecture, furniture, and decorative arts, as well as life in Georgetown during our nation’s earliest days. Dumbarton House is the National Society of The Colonial Dames of America's national museum and it also houses its national headquarters. more... mapFolger Shakespeare Library
201 East Capitol Street Southeast • Washington, DC 20003
202-544-4600
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this magnificent museum contains splendid Renaissance architecture and houses Henry Clay Folger's impressive collection of Shakespeare's work. A small Elizabethan theatre is also on site which offers performances and special events. more... mapFreedman's Hall Gallery of Art
2041 Georgia Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20060
Located at Howard University Hospital
202-865-1471
Celebrating Howard University Hospital's treasured past, thriving present, and fertile future, this exhibition gallery is a permanent educational and cultural site that explores the contributions of African Americans to medicine, health care, and research. mapFreer Gallery of Art & Arthur M. Sackler Gallery
1050 Independence Avenue, Southwest • Washington, DC 20013
Jefferson Drive at 12th Street, Southwest
202-633-1000
Located on the National Mall, connected by an underground exhibition space, these two galleries include "a world-renowned collection of art from China, Japan, Korea, South and Southeast Asia and the Near East," including Chinese paintings lacquerware and ceramics, Japanese folding screens, Korean ceramics, Indian and Persian manuscripts, Buddhist sculpture, early Chinese bronzes and jades, ancient Near Eastern ceramics and metalware, Islamic arts of the book from the 11th to the 19th century and 19th- and 20th-century Japanese prints and contemporary porcelain. more... mapHillwood Museum & Gardens
4155 Linnean Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20008
202-686-5807, 877-HILLWOOD
The Washington residence of art collector Marjorie Merriweather Post from 1955 to 1973, this extate is known for having the most comprehensive assemblage of Russian Imperial art outside of Russia, as well as a world-reowned collection of 18th century French decorative arts. The estate is nestled upon 25 gorgeous acres, twelve of which are enchanting formal gardens including a Japanese style garden and a French parterre. more... mapHirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
Independence Avenue at 7th Street Southwest • Washington, DC 20013
202-633-1000
The Hirshhorn houses a collection of modern and contemporary art "in a range of media, including works on paper, painting, installation, photography, sculpture, digital and video art, and works that mix all or some of the above." Located on the side facing the National Mall, across Jefferson Drive, the Sculpture Garden features works by Auguste Rodin, Henri Matisse, Alexander Calder and more, green spaces and a geometric reflecting pool. more...International Spy Museum, The
800 F Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20004
Located Four Blocks From National Mall
202-393-7798
This fascinating museum seeks to educate the public about espionage through the use of over 600 artifacts, 900 archival photos, audio and visual programs, and 15 mechanical and computer interactive displays. The largest collection of international espionage is located at this museum which chronicles the history of spying throughout the ages, across the globe, and today. more... mapNational Building Museum
401 F Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20001
202-272-2448
American achievements in architecture, design, engineering, planning, and construction are examined and interpreted at this private, nonprofit museum which also presents lectures and educational programs, as well as publishes books and a quarterly journal. more... mapNational Gallery of Art
Located at Sixth and Constitution Avenues
202-737-4215
One of the finest collections in the world that illustrates major achievements in paintings, sculptures, and graphics is featured at this museum which contains a permanent collection of European and American paintings, sculptures, decorative arts, and works on paper, as well as changing exhibitions of art from around the world. more...National Museum of African Art
950 Independence Avenue Southwest • Washington, DC 20560
202-633-4600
Located on the National Mall between the Smithsonian's Arts & Industries Building and the Sackler Gallery of Art, the Smithsonian's National Museum of African Art "fosters the discovery and appreciation of the visual arts of Africa, the cradle of humanity." The main entrance to the museum is located in the Enid Haupt Garden on Independence Avenue. more... mapNational Museum of American History
14th Street and Constitution Avenue, Northwest • Washington, DC 20560
Located on the National Mall
202-633-1000
A National Historic Landmark designed by the architectural firm of McKim, Mead and White, the National Museum of American History was the sixth Smithsonian building on the National Mall in Washington, D.C. The Smithsonian’s National Museum of American History collects and preserves more than three million historic American artifacts, including the original Star-Spangled Banner, Abraham Lincoln’s top hat, Dizzy Gillespie’s angled trumpet and Dorothy’s ruby slippers from “The Wizard of Oz.” The Museum’s Archives Center houses documents, photographs and other such works as the Warshaw Collection of Business Americana, advertising histories of major U.S. corporations and the Duke Ellington Collection that contains sheet music, correspondence and photographs. more... mapNational Museum of Health and Medicine
6900 Georgia Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20307
202-782-2200
Founded as the Army Medical Museum in 1862 to study and improve medical conditions during the American Civil War, this museum houses a collection of over twenty-five million items including archival materials, anatomical and pathological specimens, medical instruments and artifacts, and microscope slide-based medical research collections. Exhibits on Civil War medicine, including artifacts documenting the death of Abraham Lincoln, are also on display. more... mapNational Museum of Women in the Arts
1250 New York Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20005
202-783-5000
This museum contains a permanent collection of more than 3,000 works of art by 400 women from 28 countries from the 16th century to the present. Works by artists such as Cassatt, O'Keeffe, Kahlo, and Nevelson are on display. more... mapNational Portrait Gallery
8th and F Streets Northwest • Washington, DC 20001
Located in Downtown Washington, D.C.
202-633-8300
Housed along with the Smithsonian American Art Museum in a renovated National Historic Landmark building, the Donald W. Reynolds Center for American Art and Portraiture; which also includes the Lunder Conservation Center, Luce Foundation Center for American Art, Nan Tucker McEvoy Auditorium and the Robert and Arlene Kogod Courtyard, the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery "tells the story of America through the individuals who have shaped U.S. culture. Through the visual arts, performing arts and new media, the Portrait Gallery portrays poets and presidents, visionaries and villains, actors and activists who speak American history." more... mapNational Postal Museum
2 Massachusetts Avenue Northeast • Washington, DC 20002
202-633-5555
A Smithsonian Institution museum which is located in the old historic Post Office building and occupies 75,000 square feet of the building, with 23,000 square feet devoted to exhibition space which contains a unique collection of airmail planes, stagecoaches, rare stamps, and letters. A 6,000 square foot research library, a stamp store, and a museum shop are also on site. more... mapNaval Historical Center
805 Kidder Breese Street Southeast • Washington, DC 20374
Located at the Washington Navy Yard
202-433-4882
Housed in the old Naval Gun Factory, this museum features a collection that includes the foremast fighting top from the USS Constitution, the bathyscaphe Trieste, ship models, medals, uniforms, photographs, and fine art. Hands-on exhibits are also available for children which include working submarine periscopes and WW II gun mounts. more...Octagon Museum, The
1799 New York Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20006
202-638-3221
The museum of the American Architectural Foundation, this museum is the oldest museum in the United States devoted to architecture and design. The building was designed by Dr. William Thornton for Colonel John Tayloe III and was constructed between 1799 and 1801. It served as executive mansion for President Madison after the Brittish burned the White House in 1814. more... mapPatuxent Rural Life Museums
16000 Croom Airport Road • Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
301-627-6074
Located within the Patuxent River Park, the Patuxent Rural Life Museums are a collection of late 19th century and early 20th century historic structures and buildings dedicated to preserving the heritage of southern Prince George's County. These include the Duvall Tool Museum with farm tools and household products from the 19th century, a Sears Roebuck and Company 1923 Simplex sectional house, blacksmith and tack shop, tobacco farming museum, and the 1880 Duckett Log Cabin, a tenant farmer's log house. more... mapPope John Paul II Cultural Center
3900 Harewood Road Northeast • Washington, DC 20017
202-635-5400
A must-see museum while your in Washington, this highly interactive museum explores Pope John Paul II's teachings through state-of-the-art technology in an array of interactive exhibits, world-class art, papal memorabilia, and documentary films. A children's gallery, a cafe, and a museum store are also on site. more... mapRenwick Gallery, The
1661 Pennsylvania Avenue NW @ 17th Street • Washington, DC 20006
202-633-2850
Housed in a historic architectural landmark across the street from the White House, the Smithsonian American Art Museum's Renwick Gallery "collects, exhibits, studies and preserves American crafts and decorative arts from the 19th to 21st centuries," including one-of-a-kind pieces created from clay, fiber, glass, metal, and wood. The museum is open seven days a week, except on December 25, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. more... mapSmithsonian American Art Museum
8th and F Streets, Northwest • Washington, DC 20004
202-633-1000
Located above the Gallery Place-Chinatown Metro station in the downtown arts district known as the Penn Quarter, the Smithsonian American Art Museum is "America's first federal art collection, dedicated to the enjoyment and understanding of American art." The museum's modern and contemporary art collection is on display in the historic Lincoln Gallery. more... mapSmithsonian Information Center
1000 Jefferson Drive Southwest • Washington, DC 20013
202-633-1000
Known as "the Castle," this museum is the oldest of the 14 Smithsonian museums in Washington and it houses the crypt of founder James Smithson. The focal point for information about the Institution's 17 museums and National Zoo in Washington, D.C. and two museums in New York City, the Smithsonian Information Center also contains an 18-minute video orientation, two interactive touch-screen stations with information on the Smithsonian in six languages, one scale model of the city and the Castle Café. more... mapTextile Museum
2320 S Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20008
202-667-0441
One of the world's foremost specialized art museums, this museum is housed in two historic buildings and features rotating exhibitions of historical and contemporary textiles, as well as a learning center that explores textile techniques, makers, and their cultures. more... mapTouchstone Gallery
406 Seventh Street Northwest, Second floor • Washington, DC 20004
Located in the Downtown Arts District
202-347-2787
An artist-owned gallery with an active membership of 35 to 40 artists, the Touchstone Gallery features several exhibition spaces and five other galleries. Its members include Joan Samworth, Mary D. Ott, James Church, Harvey Kupferberg, Charles St. Charles, Rima Schulkind, and Steve Alderton. more... mapUnited States Holocaust Memorial Museum
100 Raoul Wallenberg Place Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
202-488-0400
The documentation, study, and interpretation of Holocaust history is the goal of this national institution which serves as as a memorial to the millions of people murdered during the Holocaust. The story of the Holocaust is told through exhibitions, artifacts, art, films, photographs, and oral histories. more... mapWashington Design Center
300 D Street Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
202-646-6118
Containing just under 400,000 square feet of space, there are over 60 wholesale residential, commercial, and building products showrooms located inside this center which is the mid-Atlantic region's largest single resource and destination for the design industry. Many special events and programs are held at this center throughout the year. more... mapWashington Dolls' House and Toy Museum
5236 Forty-Fourth Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20015
202-363-6400
Founded in 1975, this unique museum contains a carefully researched collection of antique doll houses, games, and toys, many of them being Victorian. There is also an Edwardian tea room, which is available for birthday parties, on site, as well as two popular museum shops.Woodrow Wilson House Museum
2340 S Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20008
202-387-4062
Washington's only presidential museum, this house is a National Trust Historic Site and it was the final home of our 28th President. Built in 1915 by architect Waddy Wood, this house is a fine example of the Georgian revival style and it contains a remarkable collection which offers a unique insight into the personality of one of America's greatest leaders. On display are objects from the White House, family items, memorabilia, and elaborate gifts of state from around the world more... map
National Parks & Natural Wonders
Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens
1900 Anacostia Drive Southeast • Washington, DC 20020
Located Between Quarles and Douglas Streets
202-426-6905
A National Park Service site which constitutes some 700 acres, this park includes the aquatic gardens which are situated on 14 acres along the east bank of the Anacostia River, as well as the 77 acre Keniworth Marsh, which borders the gardens on three sides. The park is home to thousands of water plants, waterlilies, and lotuses and visitors can enjoy an array of recreational activities while at this park. more... mapNational Mall, The
900 Ohio Drive Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
202-426-6841
Envisioned by Pierre L'Enfant's and commissioned by George Washington, this splendid park extends approximately two miles from the United States Capitol to the Washington Monument. This area is one of the most heavily visited and photographed places in the world and includes 2,000 American elms, 3,000 internationally renowned Japanese cherry trees, and botanical showplace gardens. more... mapRock Creek Park
3545 Wiliamsburg Lane Northwest • Washington, DC 20008
202-895-6070
Established in 1890, this historic park is filled with majestic trees and wild animals and visitors can walk in the footsteps of the Piscataway Indians, as well as listen to a concert or enjoy recreational activities such as soccer, tennis, fishing, horseback riding, biking, hiking, and picnicking. more... map
Parks, Gardens & Zoos
Lafayette Square (circa 1824)
Located at Sixteenth & Pennsylvania Avenues
202-755-7798
Overlooking the White House, this famous, historic square was built in 1824 and was named after the Marquis de Lafayette, the French general and a hero in the American Revolution. The park is beautifully landscaped and meticulously maintained and includes a statue of Andrew Jackson riding his horse.National Arboretum
3501 New York Avenue Northeast • Washington, DC 20002
202-245-2726
A United States Department of Agriculture research and education facility and a living museum that is situated on 400 acres and is filled with trees, shrubs, flowering plants, picnic grounds, and herb gardens. more... mapNational Zoological Park
3001 Connecticut Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20008
202-673-4800
Home to a wonderfully diverse animal collection, this beautiful, 163 acre urban zoological park contains thousands and offers science based educational programs, as well as delightful shows, for the whole family to enjoy. more... mapPatuxent River Park
16000 Croom Airport Road • Upper Marlboro, MD 20772
301-627-6074
The Patuxent River Park consists of more than 6,000 acres of natural area parklands along the eastern boundary of Prince George's County. Aquasco Farm, the Patuxent Rural Life Museums, Patuxent River 4-H Center, Columbia Air Center, Billingsley Point, Nottingham School, Mount Calvert Historical & Archaeological Park, Jug Bay Natural Area and the Queen Anne Canoe Launch are just some of what visitors can expect while at the Patuxent River Park. mapPotomac Park
Located at Jefferson Memorial Basin
202-485-9880
Divided into West and East Potomac parks, this exceptionally beautiful park contains 3,000 Japanese cherry trees, as well as facilities for golfing, picnicking, swimming, tennis, and ball games. Pedalboats can also be rented.United States Botanic Garden
100 Maryland Avenue Southwest • Washington, DC 20001
202-225-8333
The United States Botanic Garden is a living plant museum on the National Mall at the foot of the U.S. Capitol. Bartholdi Park, named for sculptor Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, was created in 1932, and "serves as a home landscape demonstration garden and showcases innovative plant combinations in a variety of styles and design themes." Located on three acres west of the Conservatory site, the National Garden is "a showcase for unusual, useful, and ornamental plants that grow well in the mid-Atlantic region." "It provides "living laboratories" for environmental, horticultural, and botanical education in a contemplative setting. The major features of the National Garden are the Rose Garden, the Butterfly Garden, the Lawn Terrace, the First Ladies' Water Garden, the Regional Garden, and an outdoor amphitheater." The Conservatory is open daily from 10:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. more... map
Science & Technology
National Air & Space Museum
Independence Avenue at 6th Street, Southwest • Washington, DC 20560
The National Mall Building Downtown
202-633-1000
A vital center for research into the history, science and technology of aviation and space flight, the Smithsonian Institution's National Air & Space Museum maintains the largest collection of historic air and spacecraft in the world. Hundreds of artifacts are on display, including the "Spirit of St. Louis," the Apollo 11 command module and a lunar rock sample that visitors can touch. more...National Geographic Museum, The
1145 Seventeenth Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20007
202-857-7588
Past and current expeditions, adventures, and scientific research come to life at this unique museum that showcases a wide variety of changing exhibits which reflects the richness and diversity of our world. more... mapNational Museum of Natural History, The
Constitution Avenue Northwest & 10th Street • Washington, DC 20560
202-633-1000
Open daily except for Christmas, the National Museum of Natural History houses virtual exhibits, more than 126 million natural science specimens and cultural artifacts, an insect zoo, the world's largest African bush elephant and much more. IMAX movies are also shown at this large museum that is part of the Smithsonian Institution. more...
Tours & Cruises
Bike and the Like
Hosts Suzie and Roger Knable offer supported and reasonably priced bicycle tours in the U.S., Canada and Europe. Each year they host an exciting weeklong journey by bicycle along the Historic Chesapeake and Ohio Canal from Cumberland to Potomac, Maryland. The towpath, once the lifeline for many of Maryland's and Virginia's smalltowns, is now a protected trail retracing 160 miles of history and beautiful scenery along the wondrous Potomac River. The tour begins in Cumberland Maryland- the terminus of the canal. The following days cycle through the quaint towns of Little Orleans, Hancock-Berkeley Springs, Williamsport and Harper's Ferry, W.Va- where the group enjoys historic town walks. Bike and the Like trip fees includes inn/motel lodging, hearty meals, ride leaders for assistance, support vehicle on route, luggage transport and more. 877-776-6572 more...Bike the Sites
1100 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20004
Located at The Old Post Office Pavilion
202-842-BIKE
Tour at a leisurely pace on scenic paths and trails while professional guides discuss history, architecture, and scandal at the many stops along this bike tour which are designed for all abilities. The tours include bicycles, helmets, water, snacks, and entertaining guides. Bicycle rentals, stroller rentals, wheel chairs, mobility scooters are also available for rent. Combination biking and walking tours are also offered. more... mapCapitol Entertainment Services
3629 Eighteenth Street Northeast • Washington, DC 20018
202-636-9203
Interesting and enjoyable guided sightseeing tours which unique showcases the nation's capital and describes its rich history are offered by this company which also provides charter services aboard motor coaches and mini buses. more... mapDC Ducks
2460 Reed Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20018
202-832-9800
Climb aboard an authentic, fully restored World War II amphibious vessel and experience a whole new sightseeing adventure as you enjoy a fully narrated, 90 minute land and water tour from Union Station through all around DC. Tours are available from mid-March through October.DC Insider Tours
2844 Wisconsin Avenue Northwest, Suite 310 • Washington, DC 20007
202-237-7534
Enjoy all-day urban excursions which provide an insider's look at our nation's capital through this tour group which offers multi-dimensional tour programs in the DC area using various forms of transportation. Tour packages up to four days are available. mapELD Touring Enterprises
2107 Marbury Drive • Upper Marlboro, MD 20747
301-395-1575
Founded in 1999, ELD Touring Enterprises has provided years of personalized service. This family run, family oriented business' past clients have included the University of Arkansas, American Kidney Fund, Catholic Charities, and Wyndam Resorts in Old Town Alexandria. Whether it's two or fifty-two their goal is to make everyone feel welcomed and important. Tour Washington in comfort with guides who will make you feel like family. more... mapFederal Bureau of Investigation
935 Pennsylvania Avenue Northwest • Washington, DC 20535
202-324-3000
Take a one hour tour of the FBI facility and see crime labs, history exhibits, and a live firearms demonstration. more... mapOdyssey Cruises
600 Water Street Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
Located at the Gangplank Marina
866-306-2469
One of Washington's most elegant and contemporary cruising vessel, this cruise boat offers three hour lunch cruises and four hour diner cruises, both with four course meals, an award-winning wine list, and live professional entertainment. more... mapOld Town Trolley Tours
2460 Reed Street Northeast • Washington, DC 20018
202-832-9800
You will find the best conductors in the city with this company that provides daily two hour narrated tours of the city with reboarding available from 19 sites around Washington. They also offer pickup service from area hotels for private charters. mapShore Shot Cruises
3000 K Street Northwest • Washington, DC 20007
Located at Washington Harbour
202-554-6500
This ten mile, 50 minute professionally narrated cruise allows you to see various sites of interest, including the Lincoln and Jefferson Memorials, the Washington Monument, and the Capitol, while cruising along the Potomac. Refreshments are provided. mapSpirit of Washington
Pier 4 • Washington, DC 20024
Located at 6th and Water Street
202-554-8000, 866-302-469
Dine and dance as you cruise the Potomac River in this 600 passenger luxury vessel which offers dinner cruises, complete with sumptuous buffets, live music, and sightseeing, from Tuesday through Sunday. more...Tourmobile Sightseeing
1000 Ohio Drive Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
202-554-5100
Seasonal narrators and drivers take you right where you want to go aboard a variety of vehicles, including an 85 passenger, multi-axeled vehicle approximately 55 feet in length, with this tour company that stops at places such as Arlington Cemetery, the White House, the Washington Monument, and the Air & Space Museum. more... mapU.S. Capitol
Located on Capitol Hill
202-225-6827
Get a behind-the-scenes look of America's legislative process while at this famous building which offers guided tours to the public from 9:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday. more...Washington Walks
819 G Street Southwest • Washington, DC 20024
202-484-1565
No reservations are required to enjoy these two hour, professionally guided walking tours where you will learn about the famous and infamous people of DC, as well as learn about its history, architecture, scandals, and ghosts. more... map
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