World-class museums and art galleries, tree-shaded and flower-filled parks and gardens, bars and restaurants that benefit from a large and creative immigrant community and nightlife that seems to get better with every passing year are as much a part of Washington as floor debates or filibusters. Although the federal government dominates many of the city's activities and buildings, there are always places where you can leave politics behind. Washington is a city of vistas, pleasant views, a marriage of geometry and art. Unlike other large cities, Washington isn't dominated by skyscrapers; its buildings stretch out gracefully and are never far from expanses of green.
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Recommended accommodation
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A stay at the Mandarin Oriental creates memorable experiences for any traveller to the most powerful city in the world.
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Park Hyatt provides an unparalleled experience of elegant, contemporary luxury. Distinguished guests of Park Hyatt receive highly attentive personal service in an intimate and refined environment.
Sample itinerary
Day 1:
The National Mall, home to many of the magnificent museums of the Smithsonian Institution, is a great place to start your day. Visit the the National Air and Space Museumand the stories, arts and crafts at the NationalMuseumof the American Indian. Art lovers won't want to miss a visit to the National Gallery of Art, while the National Archivesis a must for any American history buff. Enjoy a quick dinner in downtown or at a Capitol Hill neighborhood eatery then go to Union Station. The glorious train station is the departure point for tours of the monuments at moonlight.
Day 2:
Head to U Street for breakfast at a DC institution, Ben's Chili Bowl. Or, if you're visiting on a weekend, visit the colorful farmer's market at Dupont Circle or Eastern Market on Capitol Hill. Tour the Capitol Hill neighbourhood and explore the U.S. Capitol,Library of CongressandSupreme Court. For lunch, take the Metro to downtown's Penn Quarter neighbourhood. You'll also find lots of dining options (from casual barbeque to elegant French) near the VerizonCenter. Altenatively, feast on fresh noodles and flavourful soups in DC's Chinatown. Go undercover at the InternationalSpy Museumor visit the National Portrait Galleryand SmithsonianAmerican Art Museum. Ride to the top of the WashingtonMonumentor the Old Post Office Pavilionfor a panoramic view of the city. Discover DC's theatre scene. The Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage offers free performances at 6:30 pm nightly. Other theatres include the Shakespeare Theatre Company, Arena Stage, Warner Theatre, National Theatre, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Companyor Studio Theatre.
Day 3:
Start your morning in one of DC's prized neighborhood attractions, like the Anacostia Community Museum, The Phillips Collection, Washington National Cathedralor Hillwood Museum and Gardens, then head to Georgetown for fantastic shopping and sightseeing in a charming historic setting. Step back in time with a mule-driven barge ride on the historic Chesapeakeand Ohio Canaland stop for lunch at a casual bistro. Sports fans can watch the Washington Nationals, Washington Wizards, Washington Mystics, Washington Capitalsor DC Unitedin action. If you are looking for nightlife, head to U Street for live jazz music or Adams Morgan to experience DC's eclectic, international scene.
