There really is nowhere like Washington DC. As befits its status as the USA's national capital, this historic town is imbued with ancient grandeur. But this blends with a vibrant, exciting modernity that makes it one of the most exhilarating destinations in the world.
With its lack of skyscrapers and spacious layout, Washington is frequently likened to major European cities. A place of resplendent green parks, broad avenues, majestic marble buildings and memorials, it is a town of timeless grace, a breathtaking monument to a nation's endeavor.
It was selected by Congress as the national capital in the eighteenth century because of its geographical position at the midpoint between the northern and southern states. The city takes its name from its proximity to George Washington's home at Mount Vernon, just across the Potomac River. It attracts over 20 million visitors each year.
Unusually, admission is free to the vast majority of the major attractions. From the somber magnificence of the Lincoln Memorial to the learned halls of the National Library of Congress and the Supreme Court, this is a city that prides itself on accessibility. Even the President's home, the White House, is open to the public year-round.
The concentration of some of the world's greatest museums and exhibitions makes Washington unmissable for anybody with a love for history. Best-known is The Smithsonian Institute. To call it a "museum" does not really do justice to this enormous and breathtaking collection. What started as a scientific research center in 1846 now incorporates 13 separate collections and a zoo. Even a week wouldn't be enough to see it all properly.
Although Washington may be best known for its abundant history, visitors quickly discover that this is also a bustling, living city of some four million people. It is second only to New York for the number of theater seats on offer and blessed with a proliferation of bars, shops, restaurants, lively clubs and top sporting events.
Whether you are seeking the old or the new, the hip or historic, Washington DC is a town for you.
When To Go
Hot and humid from June to August and layered with freezing snow and ice in winter, Washington's seasons are as different as the city itself. The weather is often at its best in spring (March-May) and fall (September - November), but it is worth bearing in mind that this is also when most visitors arrive and the town is at its busiest.
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