Landmarks & Memorials

The White House

Arlington National Cemetery

Our nation’s treasured burial ground is home to more than 85,000 honored dead. Home to The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and the eternal flame adorning John F. Kennedy’s grave.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial

Four outdoor galleries, over a 7.5 acre site, illustrate the 12 years of FDR’s presidency. The memorial
depicts the president and his wife and the depression era of his presidency, and was the first memorial in DC designed to be entirely wheelchair accessible. The memorial is located near the National Mall.

George Mason Memorial

Monument to the author of the Virginia Declaration of Rights, which inspired Thomas Jefferson while drafting the Declaration of Independence. Mason persuaded our forefathers to include individual rights as a part of the Bill of Rights.

Holocaust Memorial Museum

The museum commemorates the millions of lives that were lost during the Holocaust. Exhibitions, art, and
artifacts convey the stories of lives lost, and encourage viewers to reflect on lessons learned from the tragic event. The museum is located near the National Mall.

Iwo Jima Memorial

This memorial, also known as the United States Marine Corps War Memorial, is dedicated to the marines who gave their lives during the battle of Iwo Jima, one of the most historic battles of World War II.

Jefferson Memorial

A tribute to our third president sits beneath the picturesque marble rotunda. Inside you’ll find some of his
influential words that helped shape our nation. The memorial is located near the National Mall.

Korean War Veterans Memorial

Adjacent to the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pool, this memorial commemorates the lives lost in the Korean War. The memorial is located on the National Mall.

Lincoln Memorial

A statue of our 16^th president sits on the west end of the reflecting pool. Engraved on the interior of the memorial are his words from the Gettysburg Address and his Second Inaugural Address. The memorial is located at one end of the National Mall.

National Archives

This building is home to the original copies of the Declaration of Independence, Constitution, Bill of
Rights and other important governmental documents.

The Pentagon

Headquarters of the United States Department of Defense and its approximate 26,000 employees, the Pentagon is one of the largest office buildings in the world in terms of floor space.

United States Air Force Memorial

Completed in September 2006, this is the newest memorial in the Washington, DC, area. The memorial honors millions of men and women who have served in the United States Air Force.

United States Navy Memorial

The memorial commemorates U.S. Naval history and honors all who have served in the sea services. The memorial is open 24 hours a day. The Naval Heritage Center is open Monday–Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Vietnam Veterans Memorial

A V-shaped granite wall is inscribed with the names of 58,209 Americans missing or killed in the Vietnam War. Across the lawn is a life size bronze sculpture of three young servicemen.

Washington Monument

Until the Eiffel Tower was built, the Washington Monument (at 169 meters) was the tallest structure in the world. Today, tourists can visit the observation deck free of charge and enjoy the spectacular view of our nation’s capitol and—on a clear day—the reflection of the monument itself in the reflecting pool. The memorial is located on the National Mall.

Washington National Cathedral

The second largest cathedral in the US, sixth largest in the world, sits at the intersection of Wisconsin Avenue and Massachusetts Avenue in the Northwest quadrant. Visitors enjoy the impressive gothic architecture, beautiful stained glass windows, and lovely gardens surrounding the cathedral.

White House

The First Family’s house; tours are available for parties of 10 or more, and should be arranged through your Member of Congress. Visitors should also stop by the White House Visitors Center, at 1450 Pennsylvania Avenue, for more information on the building.

World War II Memorial

Between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, this memorial honors the lives lost in the Second World War. Fifty-six pillars represent the states and territories that supported war efforts, two arches depict the Atlantic and Pacific, and a Freedom Wall features one gold star for every 100 American deaths incurred during the war. The memorial is located on the National Mall.

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Museums

The Smithsonian Castle

International Spy Museum

This museum features exciting tools and information on international espionage, many of which have never before been shown outside of the intelligence community. Opened in 2002, the museum is quickly becoming a DC favorite. Since it is not a Smithsonian, there is an admissions fee. (See the web site for more information.)

National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum contains the largest collection of historic air and spacecraft in the world. This Smithsonian is the most visited museum in the world, attracting over 9 million people each year. The memorial is located on the National Mall.

National Arboretum

The US National Arboretum is a US Department of Agriculture research and education facility and a living museum. It is dedicated to serving the public and showcasing plants to enhance the environment.

National Law Enforcement Museum

This monument honors the service and sacrifice of Federal, State, and local law enforcers. A marble wall is inscribed with the names of more than 17,000 officers who have been killed in the line of duty since the first known death in 1792. A Memorial Fund is campaigning to build the National Law Enforcement Museum across the street from the monument, which is expected to open in 2009.

National Museum of African Art

Adjacent to the Smithsonian Castle, this recent addition to the National Mall features a collection and celebration of African Art and Culture.

National Museum of Natural History

Examine a wide variety of artifacts, including an 80-foot dinosaur skeleton, an enormous prehistoric white shark, and a 45-and-a-half carat jewel known as the Hope Diamond. The Discovery Room offers a great hands-on display for young children. Feel the skin of a crocodile, examine the jaws and teeth of different animals, or try on clothes from around the globe.

National Museum of the American Indian

The newest of the Smithsonians, the unique building was designed by Douglas Cardinal (Blackfoot) and a team of Native architects and consultants. On display is a collection of artifacts and photography which was started by George Gustav Heye. The museum is located on the National Mall.

National Museum of Health & Medicine

The museum examines the practice of medicine throughout America’s history with a special focus on military health and medicine and modern medical issues.

National Portrait Gallery

The National Portrait Gallery presents a wonderful collection illustrating the many, many individuals that
have shaped or are shaping our lives and culture. It shares a noteworthy building with the National Museum of American Art, formerly the U.S. Patent Office.

Newseum

The Newseum offers visitors an experience that blends five centuries of news history with up-to-the-second technology and hands-on exhibits.

Smithsonian Institution

The first Smithsonian building, known as the castle, houses administrative offices as well as a Smithsonian information center. The memorial is located on the National Mall.

Smithsonian National Zoological Park

One of the most kid-friendly places to visit in Washington, DC, is the National Zoo. Here, you can see more than 400 different species of animals. The National Zoo is set within the beautiful Rock Creek National Park and is part of the Smithsonian Institution.

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Theaters & Art Galleries

The John F. Kennedy Center
for the Performing Arts

Note: Most museums are open until 7:00 PM!!

American Art Museum – “Graphic Masters II: Highlights from the Smithsonian American Art Museum”

“Graphic Masters II: Highlights from the Smithsonian American Art Museum” is the second in a series of special installations, celebrates the extraordinary variety and accomplishment of American artists’ works on paper. These exceptional watercolors, pastels, and drawings from the 1920s to 1990 reveal
the central importance of works on paper for American artists, both as studies for creations in other media and as finished works of art.

Other exhibits at the AAM will include: The Honor of Your Company Is Requested: President Lincoln’s Inaugural Ball; What’s It All Mean: William T. Wiley in Retrospect. For more information on these exhibits, see Upcoming Exhibits.

Corcoran Gallery of Art

The Corcoran Gallery of Art is the largest non-Federal museum in DC. Over 16,000 pieces of art are on display, spanning over 100 years of production with a special focus on American art. The Corcoran also houses a well-regarded art school.

Ford’s Theatre

The site of President Lincoln’s assassination, Ford’s Theatre continues to be used for plays and musicals that honor the former President and the American values that he conveyed.

Freer Gallery of Art

The Freer Gallery of Art, a Smithsonian museum, features Asian and American art from the 19^th and 20^th centuries. Of special interest is Whistler’s interior design on display in the Peacock Room. The museum is located on the National Mall.

John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

Presenting more than 2,000 performances annually and nearly 2 million visitors, the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts is America’s busiest arts facility.

National Gallery of Art and Sculpture Museum

The museum is comprised of two East and West buildings, which are adjoined by an underground passage. On display are over 110,000 objects which demonstrate the major achievements in all types of art throughout the years. The museum is located on the National Mall.

The National Portrait Gallery – “Presidents in Waiting”

John Adams, perhaps our most cantankerous founding father, viewed the office of the vice president as the “most insignificant office” ever invented by man. Adams would probably have never guessed that
14 vice presidents would succeed to the presidency. The National Portrait Gallery exhibition on the vice presidency will focus on these men, almost one-third of America’s presidents, and how they—upon the death or resignation of an incumbent or by winning election on their own—became presidents. For more information, see upcoming exhibits.

The Phillips Collection

When Duncan Phillips’ collection opened as a museum in 1921, it became America’s first modern art museum. Today, the collection is world renowned for its extraordinary artwork and intimate atmosphere. The museum is located on the National Mall.

Strathmore Hall Arts Center

Music center with special children’s events, including afternoon teas, art exhibits, chamber music concerts, out-door concerts, and more.

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Tours

The Washington Monument

Official Tourism Site of Washington DC

Information on attractions, events, and navigating the city.

Cultural Tourism DC

A nonprofit coalition linking you to Washington’s heritage and arts.

Frommer’s Washington DC Guide

Information on attractions, events, and getting around the city. Also offers suggested trip itineraries for one, two, or three day visits.

Lonely Planet Washington DC Guide

Information on attractions, events, and getting around DC.

Potomac Riverboat Company

The Potomac Riverboat Company provides historic boat tours that take you around the DC area; you can see Georgetown, Arlington, and Alexandria in a way that is stress free and a part of a total experience.

Segway Tour

Segways are the hottest new trend in city sight-seeing. Walking is the best way to get your feel for a city, but buses allow you to cover more ground; the Segway is the best of both worlds! Ride your motorized two-wheel vehicle all over the city… Just try to avoid the old-fashioned pedestrians!

Trusted Tours & Attractions

Trusted Tours & Attractions provides easy and safe online ticketing for numerous sightseeing tours, attractions and museums.

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Sporting Events

FedEx Field

Football

• Washington Redskins
• Baltimore Ravens

Basketball

• Washington Wizards

Hockey

• Washington Capitals

Neighborhoods

The Georgetown Waterfront

Dupont Circle
At the intersection of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New Hampshire Avenues, Dupont Circle is a metropolitan gem in the nation’s capital. Trendy bars and restaurants, unusual book and coffee shops, historic museums and galleries, and majestic embassy buildings are all intermixed to form a unique cosmopolitan blend. At the center of the circle is a marble fountain, designed by the sculptors of the Lincoln Memorial, Daniel Chester French and Henry Bacon. The area is located on Metro’s Red Line – Dupont Circle.

Adams Morgan
Adam’s Morgan is Washington DC’s hub for nightlife. Lively bars, clubs, and restaurants line 8^th Street. Restaurants offer cuisines from around the world, giving the area a very international feel. Neighborhoods feature the famous row house designs and colorful murals along the streets portray the vibrant attitude of the area.

Woodley
Woodley Park is a charming residential neighborhood of early century row houses. The elegantly designed houses have been well kept throughout the years, maintaining all of the original charm. Stepping off busy Connecticut Avenue, the streets are a pleasant escape from the busier big-city areas of DC. Extending from Rock Creek Park to the east and the Washington National Cathedral to the west, Woodley Park is also where you’ll find the popular National Zoo.

Georgetown
Declared a historic district in 1950, Georgetown is known for its beauty and elegance. The entire area exudes a classic charm. Stroll along M Street and Wisconsin Avenue to find countless upscale shops and boutiques; or wander around the side streets to explore neighborhoods and admire the architecture. Visitors also enjoy strolling along the C&O Canal, which runs from Ohio to the Chesapeake Bay, or along the waterfront of the Potomac River. The Potomac Riverboat Company provides historic boat tours that take you around the DC area; you can see Georgetown, Arlington, and Alexandria in a way that is stress free and a part of a total experience.

Capitol Hill
Many visitors make it to Capitol Hill to see the Capitol Building itself, the Supreme Court, or the Library of Congress. While these are certainly places worth exploring, many miss out on the lovely residential area beyond these attractions. One of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, the area features a charming display of row houses, each with their own unique architecture and color palate. The area also houses Eastern Market, where local farmers and artisans gather to sell their goods. The Market itself is a charming brick building, which on Saturdays and Sundays is surrounded by farmers’ stands, arts & crafts tables, and a flea market.

For information about additional neighborhoods, visit Washington DC’s Official Tourism Site.

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Maps

Map of Washington DC

The following links lead to maps that we hope will help you plan your trip to DC. Additional maps will be available from the hotel concierge.

Google Maps

Search for a particular address or type in Washington, DC for an area map. Use zoom and drag tools to explore the city.

Map Network

Contains links to various online and print maps featuring either the entire DC Metro area the downtown area & major monuments.

Official Tourism Site of Washington DC

Provides interactive maps for trip planning, as well as maps that can be printed.