National Air and Space Museum
Don’t miss the Milestones of Flight gallery, covering the history of human-powered flight from the 1903 Wright Flyer to 2004’s SpaceShipOne and experiments in space tourism. Here, too, you can find a rock brought back from the moon in 1969 and on display for visitors to touch.
> More on the National Air and Space Museum |
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Jefferson and Lincoln Memorials
Two of the most imposing and beautiful memorials in the city, each celebrates the life and legacy of an important figure in American history and provides spectacular views of Washington’s skyline and the Potomac River.
> More on the Jefferson Memorial
> More on the Lincoln Memorial |
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National Museum of Natural History
Among the highlights of this museum are the Hope Diamond and the hall of dinosaurs; also of interest are the Behring Hall of Mammals and the various exhibits on ancient European and Asian cultures.
> More on the National Museum of Natural History |
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National Gallery of Art
In addition to its comprehensive collection of European and American art from the late medieval to the modern eras, the Gallery contains Leonardo da Vinci’s Ginevra de’ Benci, the only painting by Leonardo in a museum collection outside of Europe. The Gallery also hosts many special exhibitions; check ahead for details.
> More on the National Gallery |
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The White House
It is possible to tour the White House, but tours must be booked at least six months in advance through the office of a member of Congress. The White House Visitors Center is the next-best thing, with mock-ups of various rooms and displays on the building’s history.
> More on The White House |
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National Archives
The Archives are home to the original copies of the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights, all of which are displayed in the main exhibit room for visitors to see. Also on display is an early copy of the Magna Carta, one of the earliest in existence.
> More on The National Archives |
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Washington National Cathedral
Called by some “Washington’s best-kept secret”, the cathedral offers a brilliant view over the city from the Gloria tower. In the nave may be seen the Space Window, containing an original piece of moon rock brought back in 1969.
> More on The National Cathedral |
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| Off the Tour |
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Lunch
For a taste of the real Washington, try a half-smoke with chili from Ben’s Chili Bowl on U St.; they are considered the best and most authentic in the city. Closer to the National Mall, hot dog vendors park along Independence and Constitution Avenues behind the Smithsonian museums; it’s possible, on a nice day, to buy a hot dog and eat it on a bench on the Mall. |
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Old Town Alexandria
On the opposite side of the Potomac River from Washington, Alexandria was founded in 1748 and has preserved much of its colonial charm. The river area is pedestrian-friendly, and there are many shops and restaurants nearby. |
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C&O Canal NHP
The Chesapeake & Ohio Canal runs right through Georgetown, and the National Park Service offers mule-drawn boat rides in season along part of the towpath. It’s a nice way to spend an afternoon in the summer or early fall. |
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