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Washington, D.C. Attractions
Washington, D.C. is a wonderful place to visit. In addition to the wealth of attractions relating to our government and its history, you can examine Impressionist masterpieces in the National Gallery of Art, experience the beauty of the United States Botanical Gardens' exotic plants and flowers, and learn about the creatures of the African Savannah at the National Zoo. There is so much to do and see in our nation's capital that you'll want to plan a return visit.
Washington, D.C. Sights Online
We've provided a sample of tourist attractions in the Washington, D.C. area. Visit those web sites for more information on a particular attraction. Also, please feel free to contact our Washington, D.C. office if you'd like additional information.
Virtual Tour of Capitol
This interactive tour offers historical information and panoramic views.
White House
White House visitors can learn much about the First Family's home, including its architecture, furnishings and former residents.
The Pentagon
Pentagon tours feature the work of the Department of Defense, as well as military history and information about all branches of service.
F.B.I.
There is a great deal of information about the FBI on its website, but public tours are currently closed.
Supreme Court
Visitors can learn more about some of the most significant judicial decisions in our nation's history. When the Supreme Court is in session, visitors can also listen to oral arguments.
Department of the Interior Museum
The U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) operates a museum that focuses on educating the public about its history and current initiatives.
U.S. Navy Memorial
This memorial features both a commemorative public plaza and a Naval Heritage Center.
Arlington Cemetery
The grounds of Arlington Cemetery serve as a resting place for American soldiers. The Tomb of the Unknowns, a final resting place for unknown soldiers, as well as President John F. Kennedy's grave are located here.
National Mall and Memorial Parks
The National Mall and Memorial Parks complex includes the following:
- Jefferson Memorial
A tribute to the primary author of the Declaration of Independence and our country's third President
- Korean War Veterans Memorial
This memorial serves as a tribute to the lives lost in this war.
- Lincoln Memorial
A tribute to our country's 16th President, who led during the Civil War. President Lincoln's Second Inaugural Augural and his Gettysburg Address are both engraved on the walls.
- Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial
A tribute to our 32nd President, who led the country through the Great Depression and World War II, he is the only U.S. President to serve more than two terms in office. The memorial is designed as 4 outdoor rooms, to symbolize each of his four terms in office.
- Vietnam Veterans Memorial
This memorial serves as a tribute to all the lives lost in this war, the names of American soldiers who died in Vietnam are engraved on this memorial.
- Washington Monument
This is one of the oldest attractions in Washington, dedicated to America's first President.
- World War II Memorial
A tribute to all who served our country in World War II.
Fords Theatre and Lincoln Museum
The site of the assassination of President Lincoln, this museum contains artifacts relating to the tragic events that took place here.
United States Holocaust Memorial Museum
This museum was created as a living memorial to the Holocaust through hundreds of photographs, diaries, survivor testimonials and videos.
Library of Congress
The Library of Congress is the largest library in the world and contains some of our country's oldest artifacts, from the first map to include the word "America" to Thomas Jefferson's personal library.
United States Botanic Garden
The nation's garden, located on the National Mall, is a fascinating living plant museum featuring a Conservatory and two outdoor parks. The Conservatory has several rooms featuring climate specific vegetation. The outdoor parks include a butterfly garden, rose garden, and plants found in the Mid-Atlantic region of the country.
Corcoran Gallery of Art
The Corcoran Gallery of Art includes an extensive collection of 19th century American art as well as collections of contemporary American and European art.
National Gallery of Art
The museum's impressive collection includes western paintings, sculpture and other arts dating from the Middle Ages to the present day.
The Phillips Collection
America's first modern art museum features almost 2,500 works of art.
Smithsonian Institution
The Smithsonian Institution is a complex featuring 19 museums, the National Zoo and a number of research centers.
Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The Smithsonian Institution's National Air and Space Museum is home to the largest collection of air and space artifacts, including the Wright Brothers' first airplane and the space suit that Neil Armstrong wore during his historic walk on the moon.
National Children's Museum
This attraction is currently undergoing renovation and is scheduled to reopen in 2012. It will feature exhibits and programming designed to teach children of all ages about our nation's Capitol.
International Spy Museum
The International Spy Museum contains the largest public collection of spy- related paraphernalia and exhibits on some of the most prominent spies in history.
Newseum & Freedom Park
This attraction offers visitors a better understanding of the importance of news gathering and how that effort has evolved over the years.
National Geographic Museum at Explorers Hall
This museum offers a range of permanent and traveling exhibits focusing on treasures discovered and expeditions completed.
The House of Representatives Visitor Information
Washington, D.C. Homepage