In the heart of the nation’s capital lies a remarkable tapestry of historic sites that weave together America’s past- from military memorials to presidential landmarks, from colonial homes to iconic banks-turned‑hotels. Below are ten must‑visit historic attractions that bring the story of Washington, DC to life.
1. Ford’s Theatre
Step into the theatre where President Abraham Lincoln was assassinated in 1865. This is a carefully preserved time capsule of Civil War-era America. Visitors can explore the historic theatre, see the exact balcony box where Lincoln was shot, and tour the adjoining museum featuring artifacts from the night of the assassination, including Lincoln’s clothes and John Wilkes Booth’s escape route. The theatre still hosts live performances, merging its tragic past with its ongoing artistic legacy.
2. Arlington National Cemetery
Spanning over 600 acres, Arlington is one of the most hallowed places in the United States. It is the final resting place for more than 400,000 service members, veterans, and their families. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier guarded 24/7 symbolizes the sacrifice of unidentified fallen soldiers. Visitors often stop at President John F. Kennedy’s gravesite with its eternal flame, as well as the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial and other notable monuments within the cemetery.
3, Korean War Veterans Memorial
This powerful memorial depicts 19 larger-than-life stainless-steel soldiers trudging through Korea’s rugged terrain, representing the uncertainty and hardship of the war. Their reflections in the polished granite wall create the illusion of 38 soldiers -referencing the 38th parallel that divided North and South Korea. Inscribed nearby is the poignant message: “Freedom Is Not Free.” The memorial honours all U.S. forces who served in the often-overlooked Korean War.
4. Smithsonian National Museum of the American Indian
The museum celebrates Indigenous cultures across the Western Hemisphere. The curvy architecture of the building is inspired by natural rock formations, stands out on the National Mall. Inside, visitors find storytelling, art, ceremonial objects, and perspectives shared directly by Indigenous communities. The Mitsitam Café is also famous for serving Native-inspired dishes.
5. Riggs Washington DC
Once called the “Bank of Presidents” because so many U.S. presidents banked there, the Riggs building has been transformed into a beautifully restored luxury hotel. Its design preserves the grandeur of the original 19th-century bank. Just steps away is the Milken Center for Advancing the American Dream, which offers interactive exhibits about education, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, and the pursuit of opportunity – tying the past to ongoing social and economic progress.
6. Georgetown
Georgetown is one of DC’s oldest and most charming neighbourhoods, predating the capital itself.
- Old Stone House (1765): The city’s oldest home still on its original foundation. Inside, visitors see colonial furnishings and stories of early American life.
- Georgetown University: Walking the historic campus reveals Gothic architecture, stunning river views, and Healy Hall, one of DC’s most photographed buildings.
- The neighbourhood overall offers cobblestone streets, boutique shops, C&O Canal towpath walks, and centuries of preserved architecture and a blend of colonial history and modern vibrancy.
7. Library of Congress
One of the most beautiful buildings in Washington, D.C., Library of Congress houses millions of books, maps, photographs, and manuscripts. The Thomas Jefferson Building is a masterpiece of murals, mosaics, marble, and symbolism reflecting human knowledge. Highlights include the Gutenberg Bible, the Great Hall, and exhibitions featuring treasures like Jefferson’s personal library. It’s both a working research institution and an architectural marvel.
8. National Archives Museum
This museum safeguards America’s foundational texts:
- The Declaration of Independence
- The U.S. Constitution
- The Bill of Rights
These documents are displayed in the dimly lit Rotunda to protect their aging parchment. Interactive exhibits help visitors understand how these texts shaped and continue to shape the nation’s laws, freedoms, and democratic principles. Seeing the originals is a profound experience for many.
9. National Capitol Columns
These 22 sandstone Corinthian columns once supported the East Portico of the U.S. Capitol from 1828 to 1958. After a major redesign of the Capitol dome in the 19th century, the columns no longer matched the building’s proportions and were removed. Instead of being discarded, they were relocated to the U.S. National Arboretum, where they now stand in a vast meadow. Their placement against nature creates a surreal, almost ancient ruins feel. It is one of DC’s most photogenic hidden gems.
10. Historic Restaurants
Old Ebbitt Grill: Established in 1856, this is DC’s oldest saloon. Its Victorian interior, long-standing political clientele, and classic American menu make it a quintessential Washington, DC dining experience.
Martin’s Tavern: A Georgetown institution where presidents (including JFK, who proposed to Jackie here) have dined for decades. Cozy, wood-panelled, and steeped in tradition.
La Grande Boucherie DC: A newer addition, an elegant French brasserie combining Parisian design with high-end cuisine, offering a modern counterpoint to DC’s historic staples.
About Destination DC: Destination DC, the official destination marketing organization for the nation’s capital, is a private, nonprofit membership organization committed to marketing the area as a premier global convention, tourism and special events destination with a special emphasis on the arts, cultural and historic communities.
