Washington, D.C., College Visit Guide

You don’t have to be a political science major to attend a Washington, D.C., college; the nation’s capital has more than 34 colleges (according to U.S. College Search), universities and vocational schools with studies ranging from English literature to art, medicine, music and law. In addition to being the political lifeline of the United States, D.C. offers an impressive arts and entertainment scene, an eclectic mix of international restaurants and fantastic shopping, from Georgetown boutiques to neighborhood markets. Committed to historical preservation, education and cultural celebration, the capital is an exciting and cosmopolitan city in which to visit and live. Our college visit guide to The District highlights neighborhood spots around the city’s top schools.

Getting Around

Washington’s Metro transit system is highly accessible and easy to use. You’ll have more fun navigating the Metro and exploring D.C. neighborhoods without a car; bus rates are $1.35, and rail rates range from $1.65 to $4.50. Invest in a SmarTrip pass—good for bus or rail—and get reduced rates; one card costs $5 and can be purchased at Metro sales offices. Up to two children under 4 years old ride for free with each adult. Plan your trips at www.wmata.com.

Another transportation option is D.C.’s new bike sharing program called SmartbikeDC, which allows commuters to rent bikes from various rental locations; annual service fee: $39.99.

Stay Somewhere Central

The following hotels are all located near downtown D.C. and are within easy walking distance to many attractions and Metro stops:

• George Washington University is located mere blocks from the White House.
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Willard Intercontinental Hotel, 1401 Pennsylvania Avenue; grand, historic hotel. Tel. 202-628-9100.
Hay-Adams Hotel, 16th and H Streets NW; luxurious, White House views. Tel. 202-638-6600.
Madison Hotel, 1177 15th Street; full-amenity, pets welcome. Tel. 202-862-1600.
Morrison-Clark Hotel, 1015 L. Street; historic Victorian boutique hotel. Tel. 202-898-1200.

Day 1: Corcoran College, George Washington University, Georgetown University and American University

Using the White House on 17th Street and Pennsylvania Avenue as a starting point, head west to the Foggy Bottom neighborhood, where you’ll find two great schools to check out. The Corcoran College of Art and Design, at 500 17th Street, is only a block from the White House. Don’t miss the Corcoran Gallery, which houses an extensive collection of 19th century American art, including a temporary exhibit, The American Evolution—a collection of rare colonial period artifacts and art. General admission is $6 and free for children 6 and under, with additional fees for some exhibits.

Foggy Bottom’s premier feature is George Washington University at 2121 I Street NW, a school with just under 10,000 undergraduates, regarded for its international business, political business and science programs. Other Foggy Bottom sites include the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, the Department of the Interior Museum, the National Academy of Sciences, the infamous Watergate hotel and the headquarters for various international organizations.