In a nutshell
A great destination in its own right, the USA's capital is also the gateway for your explorations of the neighbouring states of Pennsylvania, Maryland and Virginia. With all those movers and shakers, there's a real buzz about Washington DC. British travellers love the place as much for the fantastic shopping opportunities as the sights. They say you can recoup your airfare with the savings in Potomac Mills, Pentagon City and Union Station malls. When you're all shopped out, it's time to go sightseeing. Visit the amazing Air and Space Museum, the White House and the moving Vietnam Memorial. The Smithsonian Museum is enormous - you could spend a whole week in there! Areas like Dupont Circle and Adams Morgan offer street-side cafés and trendy galleries.
Eats & drinks
This is a 'winers and diners town' with sidewalk cafés, waterfront restaurants and plenty of opportunities for fine dining. Make sure you try soft shell crab, the local speciality.
Sightseeing ideas
Government Buildings
These include the Capital (home of Congress), Supreme Court, The White House, Library of Congress, FBI Building, National Archives and the Pentagon.
Memorials
As well as the Vietnam Memories, there are memorials to Lincoln, Jefferson, Einstein, victims of the Holocaust and Iwa Jima. JFK's plot lies in Arlington Cemetery.
Getting around
There is an extensive transport network in the city with buses, trains and taxis galore. Conveniently, most attractions are grouped together making walking an easy option.
Star attractions
- Great Nightlife and Dining
- Amazing Shopping in the Giant Malls
- The USA's Greatest Museums and Monuments
- Visit the White House