Welcome to "the center of the free world!" The nation's seat of government is as exciting and powerful as you would expect it to be. The city's population evolves constantly, as each election ushers in new groups of people, and sends others scurrying from public office. In the midst of all this change, DC tourism remains strong; everyone seems to want to see the iconic Washington DC attractions, and feel the pulse of this nation in so doing.
Washington DC visitors come here for many various reasons, and from many parts of the world. They all tend to enjoy some of the same sites and tours, though. For this DC travel guide we have therefore come up with a list of the ten most popular - or most Washingtonian - things to do whilst playing DC tourist.
You will often hear that the best way to appreciate DC is to view the major Washington DC memorials by night. That is because it is true! Assuming the evening is reasonably comfortable, weather-wise. No Washington DC visitor should miss the powerfully moving experience of standing by moonlight in front of the Lincoln Memorial Reflecting Pools, gazing across at the night-lit Washington Monument ringed by flags, while veterans linger by candlelight at the adjacent Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
Ambience is just as important when you visit the Jefferson Memorial and rent a paddleboat on the Tidal Basin. Do it on a sunny day in the summer, then take the family for ice cream. Another great way to see the Washington DC attractions is to take a dinner cruise on the Potomac River, with a DC travel guide aboard to narrate the local history.
DC tourism wouldn't be the same without the rail system, so visit the grand Union Station and the adjacent US Capitol one afternoon, and see Capitol Hill alive with the business of government. While there, why not visit your congressional representatives? Their appointment schedulers are generally happy to schedule brief meetings with constituents. Later, unwind with a fabulous performance at The Kennedy Center, and make sure to go outside on the deck, for the fabulous waterfront view over the Potomac.
Another day, visit the White House and Freedom Park adjacent to it, where protestors are always exercising their rights of assembly in true democratic form. From there it is easy to wander along the National Mall, where you can take in any number of the Smithsonian Museums, art galleries, or simply picnic and fly kites in the grass.
While catching the entire DC tourist attractions, don't forget to experience actual Washingtonian life. Spend a day lunching and shopping in historic Georgetown on the canal, then spend a wild evening dancing and dining in the eclectic bohemia of Adams Morgan. One of the most popular Washington DC attractions, especially with the youngest Washington DC visitors, is the National Zoo, which is part of the Smithsonian collection. All of these are activities almost any DC tourist would enjoy, but don't stop there. Explore many facets of this wonderful city. DC tourism is as diverse as the nation it celebrates!
