We all know that Washington D.C. is the capital of the US, harboring its most politically associated landmark in the nation, and one of the most recognizable sites in the world: the White House. The US President’s home is likewise surrounded by equally notable landmarks, one of which is the National Mall and Memorial Parks, more affectionately known as the National Mall, which in turn harbors other sites of interest like the: Arthur M. Sackler Gallery; Arts and Industries Building; East Building of the National Gallery of Art; Freer Gallery of Art; Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden; National Air and Space Museum; National Museum of African Art; National Gallery of Art; National Museum of American History; National Museum of the American Indian; National Museum of Natural History; Smithsonian Institution Building; United States Capitol; Ulysses S Grant Memorial; united States Botanic Garden; Washington Museum; and the West Building of the National Gallery of Art.
The National Mall is actually one of the largest open parks in the world, running 1.8 km. from the steps to the Washington Monument; 3.0 km. from the Capitol steps to the Lincoln Memorial; and covering almost 309.2 acres. There are walking tours available all throughout the year, or if you prefer to wing it¸ you are most certainly given the liberty to do so. However, if you want a tour of the White House itself, you would need prior reservation first.
In the meantime, you may want to check out other sites and places in Washington that draw tourists’ attention. If you are into academia, the Folger Shakespeare Library, the Library of Congress and the National Archives are open to everyone. If your interest in the city leans more towards architectural design, you may want to check out the churches and other places of worship, particularly the: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception (the largest Catholic Church in the US); Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle; Ukrainian Catholic National Shrine of the Holy Family; Washington National Cathedral; and even the Franciscan Monastery in Northeast, Washington.
The monastery, officially titled, The Mount St. Sepulchre Franciscan Monastery, is actually a treasure trove of rich architectural artifacts – a veritable time capsule where everything is functioning as it did in time past. Visitors to the place are allowed to roam through the ancient but well kept gardens and given a brief tour into the monastery’s archives, library and catacombs.
For the gastronomic traveler, you will not find Washington lacking – there is about as much eclectic cuisine to choose from here as there are stuffy politicians strutting about in the city. We do, however, recommend some of the late night eating establishments – the ones that are almost open 24/7. Having your fill in one of these is a great way of either starting your nocturnal activities or ending it. We recommend Quick Pita at Potomac Street, which offers Middle Eastern dishes; but most of the servings here are to go, so it would be best not to linger in this crowded joint – but the food is exquisitely great. If you prefer a more formal atmosphere, or at least a place where you can actually sit down for a good meal, there is always Georgetown Café; Stetson’s Famous Bar and Grill; Town Hall; and Osma and Joe’s Steak n Egg Kitchen at Wisconsin Avenue.
Nightlife in Washington is subdivided into scenes: 30+ discos, teens, etc. It might be best to check out which places you would want to spend time in, as most of the popular joints get crowded too soon, and you may be spending more time standing in line outside the club just waiting to get in.
