America’s capital city is a place of contrasts: extreme wealth and extreme poverty sit side-by-side on the banks of the Potomac. But play your cards right and the District of Columbia can charm you with its museums, parks and abundant historic sites.
History
The District of Columbia—identical with the city of Washington—has been the capital of the United States since 1800. Located between Virginia and Maryland on the banks of the Potomac, the district stands on land donated by Maryland 200 years ago in response to a call for a new, centralized national capital.
Much of the District was burned down just 14 years later by British troops during the War of 1812 (a huge tornado and rain storm put out the flames, ironically saving the city from total annihilation). Rebuilding quickly, it has remained the home of America’s government for well over 200 years. Its suburbs spill across the Potomac into Virginia as well as into neighboring Maryland.
The Jefferson Memorial, my favorite memorial in DC.
Today, the District has money flowing in from across the United States, and the surrounding areas are among the wealthiest on earth. Still, there is a thriving tourism industry generated by D.C.’s position as the American capital city. Tour groups come every day to check out the halls of government and see what their tax dollars pay for. Museums, monuments and endless memorials ensure that a visitor to the District will never be bored.
Washington, D.C. Attractions
These are the places I have visited and recommend. Click on the dots to find out more:
Tips
Ride the metro! If you are staying for a few days get a SmartCard. It’s a preloaded pass for buses and subways that gives you discounts for riding. You can even use an app on your phone so you never have to buy a physical card!
Ride the Circulator! This fantastic service is only $1 per ride and takes you around the National Mall (no other buses do) and to other fantastic destinations. SmartCards and cash are accepted.
Food can be a bit pricey. Further you go away from the Mall, the cheaper prices will be.
Don’t have a car and want to go to Mount Vernon? It’s easy to reach from central D.C. Just take the Yellow line to the very end and take Bus 101 right from the metro stop. Takes about 1:30 hrs one way.
