Washington D.C. is not only the capital of the United States, but a huge cultural and educational center with a plethora of embassies, monuments, museums, and more.

Washington D.C., the nation’s capitol, is positioned between Maryland and Virginia on the beautiful Potomac River. Home to iconic landmarks such as the White House, the Supreme Court, and all three branches of the federal government, Washington D.C. is full of incredible American history and government.

Needless to say, visiting Washington D.C. is perfect for history buffs and those interested in our country’s past, present, and future. It’s not just about history, government, and politics, however, as D.C. is also known for their fabulous food scene, delicious drinks, incredible wildlife, and tons of attractions, activities, and things to do.

Geography

The capital city of the United States, Washington D.C., is situated along the Potamic River, which borders Virginia and Maryland. The Potomac, Rock Creek, and Anacostia rivers all flow through the city. It is 24 miles from Maryland, 81 miles from Delaware, and 135 miles from Virginia.

Neighborhoods

Dupont Circle is a bustling neighborhood filled with people who are always on the go. Located in Northwest D.C., Dupont offers visitors plenty of delicious restaurants, world-class museums, and boutiques.
Georgetown features the historic campus of Georgetown University in the center, attracting a younger crowd to its historic environment. The neighborhood showcases 18th- and 19th-century homes along cobblestone streets and is home to a wide variety of retail shops, art galleries, and boutiques. Locals and tourists alike often visit Georgetown Waterfront Park to enjoy a relaxing day outside.
Logan Circle is a historic neighborhood in the Northwest section of Washington, D.C. It often caters to young urban professionals and features a unique combination of house sizes ranging from mid-sized homes to huge Edwardian mansions. The neighborhood offers bars with sidewalk cafes, diverse restaurants with a variety of food options, and retail stores from national brands.

Top Places to Visit

Smithsonian National Zoo

The Smithsonian National Zoo is more than a century old, home to more than 1,500 animals representing species from all over the world. Visitors can see tigers, giraffes, and lions—to name just a few. There are 18 areas to explore on 163 acres, making it a great place for families to spend time together and get some exercise at the same time.

Lincoln Memorial

Lincoln Memorial is on the western end of the National Mall. A 19-foot statue of the 16th President stands at the center of this memorial, which also includes 36 columns of marble, one for each state in the union.

United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is one of the most recognizable buildings in the world, and it sits front and center in Washington, DC. Home to both the House of Representatives and the Senate, it attracts millions of visitors each year. Tourists must make reservations in advance if they wish to tour the building.

Climate

Washington D.C.'s climate is characterized by hot and muggy summers, cold and snowy winters, and temperate springs and falls. The temperature ranges from 29°F to 88°F. The best times of the year for warm-weather activities are in June, and from mid-August to October.