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We Say:
The world's most powerful city is also one rich in history. Washington, D.C. was made the nation's capital by way of the Residence Act in 1790 and houses all three branches of government.
Unlike most big cities, the District of Columbia's skyline is low and spread out. And although you won't find skyscrapers or glowing billboards here, there's no shortage of museums or historical buildings to explore. The Smithsonian Institution boasts nearly 20 museums and a zoo within Washington and the city's centerpiece, the National Mall, is sprawling with monuments and memorials.
Home to more than 170 foreign embassies, Washington is a sightseer's paradise and one of the world's most popular tourist destinations.
They Say:
Best known as the capital of America and the home of the President of the United States, Washington, DC has been the political headquarters of the federal government since 1791. But beyond the historic White House and the iconic U.S. Capitol Building, the District of Columbia is a thriving leisure destination where tourism is the second largest industry within its jurisdiction.
Named "America's Coolest City" by Forbes in 2014, and "The Best City to Visit in 2015" by Lonely Planet, 19 million visitors from across the globe are discovering that there is something inherently "cool" about this city. From its 60 world-class museums and art galleries, to its robust dining and nightlife scene, high-end designer retail venues, and the largest theatre community outside of New York City, Washington, D.C. is more than meets the eye. - Destination DC
Weather:
Current Traffic:Google Traffic
Airport:Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport
Public Transit:Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority
Bikeshare:Capital Bikeshare
Walkability: 74 at Walk Score
Parking Options / Expense:Best Parking, Park Me
Best Accommodations: (Expedia.com Highest Guest Rated w/ at least 50 Reviews)
Boutique: The Jefferson
High End: Park Hyatt Washington
Mid Range: Cambria Suites Washington, D.C. Convention Center
Bargain: Georgetown Suites
Foods to seek out:
Half Smoke: You've got to stop in to try the signature dish at Ben's Chili Bowl.
Fish Sandwich: Freshness and flavor are both plentiful at Horace and Dickie's
Maryland Blue Crab: Take a stroll down to the Maine Avenue Fish Market and keep an eye out for Captain White Seafood City and Jessie Taylor Seafood
Known for:
Smithsonian Institution: National Air & Space Museum, Natural History Museum, American History Museum
Federal Government: U.S. Capitol, White House, Supreme Court
National Mall: National Mall & Memorial Parks, Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument
Sports Teams:
NFL: Washington Redskins
NBA: Washington Wizards
NHL: Washington Capitals
MLB: Washington Nationals
MLS: D.C. United
NCAA: Georgetown Hoyas
Cool Attractions
Single
1. Gain a better understanding of how American government functions with a tour of the U.S. Capitol
2. Eat, shop and explore D.C.'s trendiest neighborhood, Dupont Circle
3. Hike or bike the trails at Rock Creek Park
Couple
1. Enjoy a concert, sporting event or other entertainment from any seat in the house at the Verizon Center
2. Learn how to dance your shoes off at the Jam Cellar
3. See over 4,000 different kinds of plants at the U.S. Botanic Garden
Family
1. Check out more than 400 different species of animals at the National Zoo
2. Catch a live performance at the Smithsonian's Discovery Theater
3. Explore everything from dinosaurs to ancient Egypt at the National Museum of Natural History
Nightlife
1. Happy Hour: Bar Pilar
2. Dance Club: U Street Music Hall
3. Cigar and Cocktails: Civil Cigar Lounge
Washington, D.C. is:
Graphic via WorditOut
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