Washington DC Information

Things to see and do

Most of Washington’s highlights are linked to its status as the United States’ capital city.  The White House, home to the President, is perhaps the world’s most iconic residence.  Visitors can take a tour of certain parts of the building, which doubles as the centre of the executive branch of government.

While in Washington, take a stroll down the The National Mall, a two mile (3.2 km) stretch from the White House to Capitol Hill.  The drawcard at the eastern end of the Mall is the US Capitol Building, which houses both the Senate (upper house of parliament) and House of Representatives (lower house).  Also on the Hill are the impressive Library of Congress, the United States’ Supreme Court, the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington monument. 

Washington’s plethora of museums, most of which are free, are superb.  Known as the Smithsonian, these nineteen museums include venues such as the National Natural History Museum, the Holocaust Museum and the International Spy Museum.

Washington is also hub for the Arts.  The performing arts are concentrated at the impressive Kennedy Center, which is home to world-renowned acts such as the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera.  The National Gallery of Art and American Art Museum are well worth a visit. 

Local Flavours

There’s a great deal that’s unique to Washington - testament to the fact that many people in the city are not native Washingtonians, but rather come to town for jobs that are invariably related to government.  This fuels a vibrant restaurant and bar scene. There’s a superb variety of restaurants, featuring everything from trendy bistros to cheap takeaway.  

Hosting over 170 embassies and thousands of immigrants, the international flavour translates to Washington’s food.  It’s possible to find cuisine from the Caribbean, Latin America and South-East Asia all on the same block!  

One little-known statistic is that Washington has the world’s second largest Ethiopian community (after Addis Ababa, the Ethiopian capital).  Enjoy succulent meat, vegetables and bread at one of the inexpensive, authentic restaurants in Little Ethiopia.  

 
Getting In
Most visitors to Washington arrive by air.  Domestic flights to Washingto] arrive from all over America, landing at Ronald Reagan National airport, which is just three miles from the city.  International flights to Washington arrive via Dulles International, which hosts direct flights from most major European and Asian cities.  

Another good way to get to Washington is on Amtrak trains, which arrive from all over the country, and are particularly frequent from major East Coast cities such as Boston and New York. 

Getting Around
With so many attractions jammed into a small space at the Mall, Washington can easily be explored on foot.  For transport between neighbourhoods, jump on the efficient Metro.  There are also taxis aplenty, however be aware of Washington’s notorious traffic.

Some visitors rent a car in Washington, which is a great way to explore picturesque surrounding states such as Virginia and Pennsylvania.  

Weather 

Washington experiences considerable weather variation across the year.  Spring and fall are excellent times to visit, with moderate temperatures that are sure to please any visitor.  In spring (April-May), the city’s parks and streets see the blooming cherry blossoms, a truly special time to visit.  Though it can be very hot in summer, the absence of the political crowd leads to a far more laid-back feel.  Winter has its advantages too - sparse crowds, smaller lines at museums and relatively rare snowfalls. 
 
Good to Know
Washington’s reputation for violent crime tends to be overstated.  Crime usually occurs in poorer neighbourhoods that are located far from the tourist attractions, nonetheless be aware when travelling on the Metro or walking around some parts of the city in the evenings

Visitors are well advised to consider what they carry around each day - try to avoid carrying a bag if possible. With so many national treasures, security at museums, and especially at the White House, is very strict: be ready for airport-style checks at many venues.   
 
Staying Here
Most accommodation in Washington is near the Smithsonian in the East End.  For high-budget visitors, there’s every hotel chain imaginable, as well as an array of trendy boutique hotels.  There’s also a number of hostels and mid-range options.  Location is everything in Washington - it is usually possible to stay within walking distance of most attractions, if not, consider the metro map before you book your stay.