- The illuminated World War II Memorial of Washington D.C..
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Washington, D.C., or the District of Columbia, is the capital of the United States. It is a planned city, designed specifically to house the federal government and is not part of any state. Its history, beautiful architecture and excellent cultural centers attract millions each year.
Virtually all of Washington’s tourists flock to the Mall—which features monuments, museums, the White House and the Capitol—but the city itself is a vibrant metropolis that often has little to do with monuments, politics or white, neoclassical buildings. In many ways D.C. remains a significant center of African-American culture. It is home to Howard University, one of the most important historically black colleges, and is the hometown of many significant African-American figures of history and culture, including Fredrick Douglass and Duke Ellington. The District is also home to one of the country's most prominent lesbian/gay communities, centered around DuPont Circle.
A Treasure Hunt is a great way to see many of the famous landmarks and institutions of DC as well as some of its unknown treasures. Several tour companies offer this service for groups throughout the downtown mall area. Visitors can also enjoy the National Zoo, and the many large parks that offer hiking and biking.
Destination Facts
- Population: 552,433
- Time Zone: -5 GMT (Eastern Standard Time)
- Languages: English
- Currency: USD
- Airports
- Washington (All Airports) (WAS) [Main]
- Ronald Reagan Washington National (DCA) [Secondary]
- Washington Dulles International (IAD) [Secondary]
City Guide
Feature Article
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Washington, D.C., Insider Travel Planning Tips
Washington, D.C. May 9, 2008 by Lisa Colburn StewartInsider info from our local expert on where to go and what to see on your next trip to D.C.
Articles on Washington, D.C.
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by Lisa Colburn Stewart May 9, 2008Each of these restaurants in the Washington, D.C., area has something to satiate and satisfy your kids, as you work toward refining their young palettes.
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by Lisa Colburn Stewart May 9, 2008Our nation’s capital offers an array of family-friendly hotels of varying price, luxury and location. Learn from our hotel guru which bed best suits your family vacation best.
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- Don’t know which Washington museums are best for kids from tykes to teens? Read here for age-appropriate recommendations. »
- Washington, D.C., Insider Travel Planning Tips
- Insider info from our local expert on where to go and what to see on your next trip to D.C. »
- A Capital Affair
- From how to take in the sights to where to find the best children’s theater, our Washington, D.C., issue covers it all. »
