(Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post)
Top local attractions
Stephanie Merry | Updated 07/18/2011
Visitors can't miss these quintessentially Washington spots that also share the benefit of free admission.
Arlington National Cemetery
Arlington, VA
The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is the setting for the somber changing of the guard, while the eternal flame burns at the grave of John F. Kennedy.
Jefferson Memorial
Washington, DC
Anchoring the cherry blossom-lined Tidal Basin, this dome reflects the third president's love of neoclassical architecture.
Lincoln Memorial
Washington, DC
Stand in Lincoln's shadow and brush up on the Gettysburg Address in this massive homage to the 16th president.
National Gallery of Art
Washington, DC
This two-building museum, established by the U.S. government, houses more than 100,000 pieces of art from Rubens to Rothko.
National Museum of American History - Smithsonian Institution
Washington, DC
All the Smithsonian museums are worth a peek, but the shiniest of all is the home of the Star-Spangled Banner, Dorothy's ruby slippers and an array of gowns worn by first ladies.
National Zoological Park - Smithsonian Institution
Washington, DC
The giant pandas, along with about 2,000 other animals, await visitors in the 163 acres along Rock Creek Park.
U.S. Capitol
Washington, DC
Check out where the big decisions are made (or filibustered), plus see the building's recent addition -- the Capitol Visitor Center.
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Washington, DC
The unique memorial of stark black granite with white etching contains more than 60,000 names of those who died in Vietnam.
Washington Monument
Washington, DC
At 555 feet, Washington's tallest structure defines the D.C. skyline, and the views from the top can't be beat.
White House
Washington, DC
The first family's home is the perfect background for a photo op, while visitors who plan ahead can secure tours of the executive mansion.
More Editors' Picks
Visitors Guide
- Take a tour of Civil War Washington
- Theater 101
- Sites off the Mall
- African American history sites
- Best places for a memorable proposal
- Best places to escape bad weather
- Best gardens
- Best bargain golf courses
- Lighthouses to visit
- Best area attractions outside D.C.
Restaurants
- Best places to host a book club
- Best crab cakes
- Best escargot
- Best cupcakes
- Best seafood
- Best juice bars
- Best food and drink for Nationals fans
- Best bubble tea
- Best restaurants for vegetarians and vegans
- Best gumbo
Bars & Clubs
- Best pool halls
- Best bars without televisions
- Best bars for a 'Mad Men' vibe
- Best rooftop bars
- Best cocktails
- Best fizzy cocktails
- Best places to go if you're under 21
- Best free nightlife events
- Intern Guide: Two-for-one happy hours
- Best places to watch the game
Events
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