Visit Washington, D.C.!

History Tomb of the Unknown Solder

Arlington National Cemetery

When visiting Washington, D.C., the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Cemetery is a beautiful place to visit and reflect on our history.  The historical monument is dedicated to unidentified soldiers who died fighting for our country.

U.S. Army soldiers, known as tomb guards, march in front of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier 24 hours a day.  Each soldier marches 21 steps in each direction on the mat in front of the tomb.  21 steps are symbolic of the 21-gun salute, the highest military honor.

The guard is changed every half hour between April and the end of September and every hour between October and the end of March.  After the cemetery closes to the public in the evening, the guard is changed every 2 hours.

Walk through Arlington National Cemetery and see the historic headstones of military heroes, government leaders, famous women, celebrated African-Americans, and others. 

From the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and areas around the cemetery, you can take in vast views of Washington, D.C.  You can even purchase tickets for a tour of the area.  It's a must-see destination when visiting Washington, D.C. 

Harmony in Blue and Gold:  The Peacock Room The Smithsonian

19 Museums + National Zoological Park

Visit at least one of the 19 Smithsonian museums when you're in Washington, D.C., and you'll be moved.  The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest research, museum, and education complex.

The Smithsonian exhibits change regularly, so you can go online to find your favorites before choosing which museum to visit.  You can learn more about famous artists, photography, health and medicine, airplanes, cultures, music, and so much more through the exhibits.

The Smithsonian's National Zoo features pandas, bears, gorillas, wildcats, seals, lions, and more. You can use the Animal Adventure Guide on your smartphone to learn more about the zoo animals as you move through the park.  Four weeks before your trip to Washington, D.C., reserve your free entry pass online.  You're going to love the National Zoo!

World War II Memorial National Monuments

Experience the History of Washington, D.C.

Visiting the national monuments in Washington, D.C., is a must.  The memorials and monuments provide history and an understanding of those who made our nation great.  The most well-known monuments are the following:

• Lincoln Memorial
• Jefferson Memorial
• Eisenhower Memorial
• World War II Memorial 
• Washington Monument
• Vietnam Veterans Memorial
• Korean War Veterans Memorial
• Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial
• Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial

The newest memorial is the Eisenhower Memorial which was erected in 2020.  The memorial sits in front of the Department of Education building and features two scenes. One scene is of Eisenhower as a 5-star general with soldiers.  The other scene depicts Eisenhower as the president with three of his assistants.  There is also a bronze of Eisenhower as a young man looking at the adult bronze men and looking toward his future.

When you visit D.C., make time to see as many national monuments and memorials as you can.  Oh, the memories you'll create! 

Activities Entertainment in Washington, D.C.

Embrace all that D.C. has to offer

Washington, D.C., offers an endless supply of entertainment and activities.  Enjoy every music genre you can imagine, marketplaces, nighttime entertainment, world-class restaurants, people-watching, and more. 

If you like to stay active, D.C. features cycling paths, golf courses, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and waterparks for the kids.

Let's Explore!  Activities In & Around Washington, D.C.

There are so many activities and sites to see in D.C.:

• National Zoo
• National Mall
• The Whitehouse
• Library of Congress
• Historic Georgetown
• Smithsonian Museums
• National Gallery of Art
• International Spy Museum
• National Air & Space Museum
• World-Renowned Restaurants
• National Memorials & Monuments