Things to do in Washington DC

This is a place to pause and reflect on the price of liberty and freedom. The Lincoln Memorial overlooks the National Mall and pays homage to one of the most important presidents, and eras, in American history. Lincoln sits on permanent watch near the Potomac River, looking up towards Capitol Hill and paints an enduring image of Washington D.C.

The simple yet strikingly beautiful Vietnam Veterans Memorial honours over 58,000 Americans who gave their lives during the Vietnam War. Symbolising far more than the fallen, it reflects America's coming of age during the tumultuous period of the 1960s and ‘70s. The name of every soldier who lost their life is inscribed here, etched into a gabbro rock wall that reflects the National Mall.

Built to honour America's first president, the Washington Monument quietly towers over Washington D.C. This 555ft marble obelisk is the tallest monumental column in the world and features a fascinating construction history. Although building began in 1844, it stood unfinished for 23 years due to the American Civil War and a shortage of funds.

Instantly recognisable, the Capitol Building is the heart of US government and overlooks the National Mall. The beautifully landscaped gardens around the building are open to the public. Enjoy taking time out to view the ornate fountains and numerous monuments. Meanwhile, guided tours of the building's interior are also available, providing a more personal insight into the world's most influential democracy.

Home to the president and enshrined in global history, the White House and its grounds sit perpendicular to the National Mall. If you're looking to gain an in-depth appreciation of this iconic building, large swathes of the grounds are open for you to explore. Take time to browse in the visitor's centre, which includes artefacts and exhibitions that tell the story of the White House as a national symbol, stage, and home.

Casting a watchful gaze directly towards the White House is the Thomas Jefferson Memorial. This hallowed monument sits on the shores of the Potomac River, paying tribute to the third president of the United States and one of America's founding fathers. Jefferson was the principal author of the Declaration of Independence and is widely credited as an architect of the American Revolution.

Described as a museum that goes ‘above and beyond', the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum is home to exhibitions and collections that chart the history and progression of aviation. With a focus on the invention and development of flight – both in and out of this world – here you'll find the largest and most significant collection of aviation and space artefacts in the world, including the Apollo 11 command module.

In an era of spin and fake news, Washington D.C.'s Newseum seems more relevant than ever. Highlighting and defending the importance of free expression, there are seven levels of interactive displays to explore, including 15 galleries and 15 theatres. See exhibits from historic newsworthy events like sections of the Berlin Wall and the broadcast antenna from the top of the World Trade Centre.

Spanning the neoclassical West Building and the contemporary East Building, the National Gallery of Art features thousands of significant artworks and sculptures dating from the Renaissance up to the present day. Each piece at the gallery has been privately donated or loaned to the National Gallery of Art for display. Expect to see European and American masterpieces. The National Gallery of Art is located on Constitution Avenue.

The National Museum of African American History is another venue run by the Smithsonian Institution. Opened in 2016, it's dedicated to documenting the African American experience –covering slavery and the civil rights movement – and tackles the bigger theme of what it means to be an American. Be prepared to spend a good amount of time here, as there are over 3,500 artefacts covering everything from African American music to politics to athletics.