United States
Washington, D.C.
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States, an independent federal district that belongs to no state. Beyond its global political influence, it's notable for being a planned city designed from the outset to serve as the seat of government.
Updated August 15, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors
- Gateway airport
- Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD)
- Best season
- Apr–Jun, Sep–Oct
- Time zone
- America/New_York
- Sights covered
- 45 places
Sights worth seeing
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Castles & palaces
White House
The official office and residence of the U.S. president, located in the heart of Washington, D.C. Every president since 1800 has lived and worked here, overseeing state affairs and receiving foreign dignitaries.
Heritage & monuments
Washington Monument
A monument on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., standing 170 meters tall. From the observation deck at 153 meters, visitors can take in a sweeping view of the city.
Museums & galleries
Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a cultural institution in Washington, D.C., founded in 1846 with a bequest from James Smithson. It encompasses numerous museums, galleries, and libraries, offering a wide range of exhibits to explore.
Museums & galleries
National Gallery of Art
The National Gallery of Art is a museum in Washington, D.C. that opened in 1941 with a collection donated by private collectors including Andrew Mellon. It's a favorite among art lovers for its wide range of masterpieces.
Heritage & monuments
Lincoln Memorial
Located at the western end of the National Mall in Washington, D.C., this memorial was built to honor President Lincoln. It's also widely known as a symbolic site of the civil rights movement and draws many visitors.
Parks & gardens
National Mall
The National Mall is a vast park in the heart of Washington, D.C., home to the Smithsonian museums, galleries, and numerous monuments. With around 24 million visitors a year, it's a popular spot that makes for a great full-day visit.
Museums & galleries
National Museum of Natural History
A Washington, D.C. museum operated by the Smithsonian Institution, home to dinosaur fossils and artifacts from American history. It's filled with exhibits the whole family can enjoy together.
Temples & religious sites
Washington National Cathedral
A cathedral in Washington, D.C. that belongs to the Episcopal Church. It is considered one of the foremost examples of Episcopal religious architecture.
How many days do you need?
Routes grouped by travel distance so each day stays comfortable.
2 nights, 3 days
Washington, D.C. 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)
A 3-day route through Washington, D.C. grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.
3 nights, 4 days
Washington, D.C. 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)
A 4-day route through Washington, D.C. grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.
Average temperature by month
5-year average
Getting there
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Getting around the city
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Washington, D.C. Tours & Experiences Booking
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Where to stay
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Guides by theme
Best value
Where to stay in Washington, D.C. for the best value
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5-star & luxury
Where to stay for a luxury experience in Washington, D.C.
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Pool villas & resorts
Where to find pool villas and resorts in Washington, D.C. and surrounding areas
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Family travel
Where to stay in Washington, D.C. for a family trip
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Couples & honeymoon
Where to stay in Washington, D.C. for couples and honeymooners
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Central & near stations
Where to stay in Washington, D.C. for central access and transit
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Best time to visit
When is the best time to visit Washington, D.C.?
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First-time guide
How to plan your first visit to Washington, D.C.
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Getting around
How to get around Washington, D.C.
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