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Washington, DC

Washington, DC is one of the most famous cities in the world. Vibrant neighbourhoods and grand avenues rub shoulders with impressive architecture and imposing monuments. Washington, DC excels in dining, arts, culture, sports, theatre, outdoor activities, green spaces and shopping. It could be argued that other destinations can’t compete with the number of monuments, museums and memorials the capital affords, and many of them are free.

With so many landmarks, sightseeing is definitely on the agenda – wonder at the Washington Monument, stroll along the Potomac River or enjoy a sunset picnic on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial. Or explore any of the free world-class museums and galleries within the Smithsonian Institute – the largest museum cluster in the world.

Visit the enchanting neighbourhood of Georgetown with its tree-lined streets, old stone buildings, and riverside terraces and a plethora of boutiques and restaurants, serving locally made items. From the charming shops in Georgetown to funky finds on U Street to the homegrown vendors at Eastern Market, the shopping in DC gives you more than enough of an excuse to bring an extra suitcase.

DC's Monuments & Memorials

The Jefferson Memorial, the Lincoln Memorial, the White House, the Washington Monument – let’s face it, the famous monuments and memorials are why you’re here.

Washington Monument

Built to honour George Washington, the commander-in-chief of the Continental Army and the first President of the United States, the Washington Monument was once the tallest building in the world at just over 555 feet. The monument to America’s first president still holds the title of world’s tallest stone structure and obelisk. Maintained by the National Park Service, the Washington Monument is located in the centre of the National Mall between the U.S. Capitol and Lincoln Memorial. Tickets are available online and via walk-up (same day only), up to 30 days in advance and are free. Tickets are made available daily from 10am.

White House

The home of every U.S. president except George Washington, the site of the White House on Pennsylvania Avenue was selected in June 1791. The design for the Presidential Mansion (as it was originally called) was decided by a contest, and the winner was James Hoban, a native of Ireland. Designed to be far larger and grander than it is, the building of the Presidential Mansion began in October 1792 and was finished in 1800.

The first president to live in the White House, which, surprisingly, was originally painted yellow, was John Adams. British soldiers captured and burned the building during the War of 1812 when James Madison was in office. Reconstruction was completed in 1817, and President James Monroe and his family were able to move into the building, which was now painted white, as it is today.

Lincoln Memorial

The grand Lincoln Memorial towers over the Reflecting Pool, anchoring the western end of the National Mall. The best way to approach the memorial is from the east, by the Washington Monument and the National World War II Memorial. The Lincoln Memorial honors President Abraham Lincoln, the 16th United States president.

The Lincoln Memorial is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Rangers are on duty from 9:30am to 10pm daily. The easiest way to reach the Memorial is by Metrorail, Metrobus or on foot. The DC Circulator bus, which you can ride for just $1, has a route dedicated to the National Mall which stops here. The nearest Metro stations are Foggy Bottom and Smithsonian, both on the orange, blue and silver lines.

Jefferson Memorial

This iconic monument is dedicated to the third US President and author of the Declaration of Independence. Surrounded by water, the structure is located on the National Mall’s Tidal Basin, a large body of water that is bordered by DC’s famous cherry blossom trees, which bloom each spring.

The Jefferson Memorial is open 24 hours a day, every day of the year. Rangers are on duty from 9:30 am to 10 pm daily. The most convenient way to reach the memorial is by Metrorail, Metrobus or on foot. The closest Metro station is Smithsonian, located on the orange, blue and silver lines.

Smithsonian Museum's

Collectively called the Smithsonian Institution, this world-renowned museum and research complex consists of 17 museums, galleries, and the National Zoo.

Explore and learn about everything from the origins of man and the future of flight to the history of art across multiple continents with more than 150 million objects, works of art and specimens to discover. The Smithsonian’s collection of knowledge centres serves as a treasure chest for visitors and a guide to the most fascinating aspects of our world.

And the best part? You won’t have to pay a penny to experience it as admission is free at every Smithsonian Museum.

DC's Dining Scene

Dig into one of the country’s hottest restaurant scenes – the nation’s capital is a can’t-miss culinary destination. When you visit Washington, DC, you’ll experience a dining scene as colourful and eclectic as America itself.

The city is rolling in accolades, as DC received its second Michelin Guide and was named restaurant city of the year by Bon Appétit and hottest food city by Zagat in 2016. That means you can expect each meal at every restaurant to be different. From crave-worthy dishes served by celebrity chefs to chilli-smothered half-smokes served at DC institution Ben’s Chili Bowl, DC’s local flavour has one thing in common: it’s all delicious!

Experience & Explore

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