Visitors should come prepared for an experience they'll not forget when visiting the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. At the start of the tour, each visitor is given an identity card of a Holocaust victim that matches the visitor's own age and gender. Ordinary reality is skewed through off-center stairways, weird angles, and the shadows of other visitors on the glass walkways overhead. An elaborate audio-visual display includes interviews, films, and photographs. The Hall of Remembrance provides a calm, empty space at the end of the tour where one can reflect on the experience. The museum discourages children under the age of 11 from attending. Admission to the museum is free. However, from March through August, a free pass is required to enter the permanent exhibition. Passes are not required to gain entrance to the museum building or to go to any of the smaller exhibitions, memorials, or special programming.
Located close to the United States Capitol in Washington is the highest authority in the US Judiciary, the Supreme Court of the United States. This grandiose structure was built in the neo-classical style and was completed in 1935 and was laid out keeping in mind the Judicial and Court structures of the United States. The white marble facade of the building reckons awe and respect and the magnificent, yet sober interiors speak volumes about the elegance and gravitas of the country's highest judiciary.
Georgetown Waterfront was an industrial area bustling with lumber and cement factories. However, due to the efforts and suggestions of National Capital Planning Commission, Georgetown Waterfront Park has now been developed. The grassy place offers panoramic views of the Kennedy Center and the Key Bridge against the back-drop of the enormous skyline. Also worth experiencing are the park's various mini attractions like the River Steps, Labyrinth and Fountain. Visitors to the park can spend their time biking or walking around the park or simply taking in the spectacular views.
Located at the west end of the National Mall, the Lincoln Memorial is one of the principal landmarks of Washington, DC. Its stately form overlooks the Reflecting Pool, a gleaming stretch of water that lies sprawled before its base. Daniel Chester French's 19-foot (5.7-meter) statue of Lincoln, seated and deep in thought, watches over the nation he helped create, alongside the carved text of the Gettysburg Address, providing a glimpse into a weighty period of American history. The memorial itself draws inspiration from the Greek architectural style; its 36 doric columns represent the number of states in the Union at the time of Lincoln's death. Surrounded by greenery on the banks of the Potomac River, the Lincoln Memorial makes for a soul-stirring, picturesque sight, a fitting ode to one of the nation's most revered presidents.
Designed by John Russell Pope, this Roman-style monument to Thomas Jefferson, the nation's third president and author of the Declaration of Independence, is elegant and simple. Within the memorial, Jefferson's 19-foot (5.79-meter) statue stands surrounded by some of his most inspirational writings. The Thomas Jefferson Memorial serves as a place for reflection and contemplation, inviting visitors to ponder Jefferson's enduring legacy. At night, the view of the Washington Monument across the tidal basin is one of the most attractive vistas in Washington, especially when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
The former home of Martha Washington's granddaughter, Tudor Place Historic House & Garden offers formal gardens and a house full of artifacts from the Washington family. The mansion was designed by Dr. William Thornton who also engineered the U.S. Capitol. For those with an interest in early American history, but without the time to travel to the more famous Mount Vernon, this museum within the city is ideal. Docents lead the frequent tours for a nominal price and you can also check out the interesting tea tour which was a tradition for around 200 years.
The International Spy Museum provides a unique glimpse into the thrilling world of espionage and its impact throughout history and present day. The museum showcases espionage artifacts from the 21st century to as far back as the Greek Empire. Visitors get the chance to be a part of a movie setup and play the role of a heroic spy, who solves puzzles and overcomes obstacles. During your visit to the museum, you're made to adopt a cover identity and led into a briefing room, where you learn about the life of a spy. Highly interactive, informative and fun, a visit to this museum is well worth the price.
Step inside this art haven with a collection spanning over 150,000 works. You'll encounter works of art from renowned European masters like Matthias Grünewald, Albrecht Dürer, Jean Auguste Dominique Ingres, Eugène Delacroix, and many others. In addition to that, the gallery also has a beautiful collection of drawings, photographs, paintings, sculptures, medals and art which take you on a journey to the Middle Ages and back to the present. Once you’ve toured the gallery, explore the serene oasis of the Sculpture Garden. Adorned with beautiful sculptures by renowned artists, the garden offers a peaceful space for contemplation and reflection.
The Kennedy Center is a lively space that hosts performing arts and events. The center offers three main theaters including, Concert Hall, Eisenhower Theater, and Opera House, which hosts different genres of performing arts: such as plays, operas, ballets, concerts, and films. Among the center's highlights include festivals of various genres. The center is also home to one of the few open-air rooftop terraces, open for visitors to enjoy the panoramic view of the city. Free tours introduce visitors to the Hall of States, Hall of Nations, and the main theaters. It is a must-see for any visitor.
Established on April 29, 2004, the World War II Memorial is the first national memorial to honor the American troops who fought in the war. The design by architect Friedrich St. Florian marks the Pacific and European Theaters of World War II with magnificent arches and remembers the Americans who died with 4,048 stars along the Freedom Wall. Located on the National Mall between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, visitors come here for a poignant and educational experience.
An integral part of the West Potomac Park, the Martin Luther King Jr. National Memorial is an impressive memorial honoring the life and glory of the legendary civil rights activist. The memorial, an extension of his valiant, dignified and equality-seeking identity, is based on the very foundations of justice, hope, and democracy. Laden with motley inscriptions and quotations from his speeches, including the iconic 'I Have a Dream', the memorial site is also home to a 30-foot (9 meters) statue of Martin Luther King, Jr., a pristine white sculpture signifying pride, equality, and an indelible political legacy. Fashioned from white granite, the structure is awash in Social Realist style and has been the subject of artists and critics alike. The crowning glory of Washington D.C., this iconic memorial has ignited a strong sense of political, social and historic integrity among the global audience.
Founded by Ben and Virginia Ali, Ben's has served chili dogs, half-smokes, and milkshakes to generations of Washingtonians, including presidents who have been known to grab some chili-laden goodness, athletes, and celebrities. A wide range of hot dogs are served here, from the traditional dog to half-smokes and turkey dogs smothered in onions, cheese, and chili. Fries and onion rings, cream pies, and shakes are also offered, and breakfast is served six days a week. The restaurant's vibrant red and white exterior and iconic red booths and walls adorned with photos and memorabilia create a relaxed atmosphere that welcomes everyone. Ben's menu is simple but satisfying. The star of the show is, of course, the chili. Made with Ben's secret recipe, it's a spicy concoction that has been satisfying taste buds for decades. The half-smoke, a D.C. staple, is a must-try for any first-timer. Grilled to perfection and topped with Ben's signature chili, it's a delicious and filling meal.