Planning On Visiting Washington D.C? Here’s Everything You Need To Know
The capital of the USA has plenty to offer those visiting. From tourist attractions such as the White House to its rich and long-stretching history, there’s a lot to see and do. So, if you’re considering a visit to this fascinating city, then take a look at the post we have put together below. We will cover all the reasons to visit Washington D.C, so keep reading!
Main Attractions In Washington D.C
There are plenty of attractions in Washington that you will want to tick off, whatever your interests may be. Below we have listed some of the top attractions to pay a visit to.
The White House
Of course, the most iconic landmark in Washington is the home of the president of the United States. This 132-room residence has been home to every U.S president since the 1800s, so it is definitely one to check off your list whilst in the capital.
The National Mall
This must-see landmark is one of the main attractions in Washington, having witnessed so much history of the states being made. Located in the downtown area of Washington, it’s set within beautiful memorial parks and stretches over 2 miles.
The National Zoo
As one of the oldest zoos in the country, the national zoo has been delighting visitors for years. Perfect if you’re traveling with children, there are all the favorite animals, such as lions, tigers, giraffes, and even giant pandas. There is also a wide range of reptiles and sea life living in the zoo as well.
National Gallery Of Art
Perfect for lovers of art and culture, the National Gallery of Art houses some national treasures, such as a self-portrait by Vincent Van Gogh dating from 1889.
City Guided Tours
Because this city is soaked in so much history, the best way to learn as much as you can is to take a city guided tour. There are many different tours to choose from, so you can find one that will help you to get the most out of your trip.
You’ll not only be able to learn more about Washington D.C and its history, but it will also help you to find all the major landmarks you’re hoping to see and to learn more about them too.
The most popular tours occur in the downtown area, Capitol Hill, the National Mall, and Arlington National Cemetery.
Transport Links
Washington D.C has great transport links, with its Ronald Reagan national airport flying, on average, almost 20 million passengers a year. It is located only 5 miles away from downtown Washington, so not very far from some of the major sightseeing spots.
If you’re flying out from Washington to visit elsewhere, find out if you can save money with Parkway Parking by making use of their Ronald Reagan Washington airport parking coupons.
There is also a great Metrorail and bus system to help you get around. Or you could simply walk from different locations, as the city is very pedestrian-friendly. The choice is entirely up to you!
Accommodation In Washington D.C
There is plenty of accommodation in the capital to choose from, with many hotels located near to all the best tourist spots, so you won’t have far to travel. Whether you’re alone, a couple, or you’re traveling with children, you’ll be sure to find something that meets your needs.
There is also a range of hostels you could stay in with good quality conditions and amenities, saving you the money you can then spend on other areas of your stay.
The Weather In Washington
The climate in Washington tends to be mild, making it the ideal city to walk around and see all the sights. In the summer, temperatures are usually no higher than the high 60s and there is very rarely any rain.
The weather is generally pleasant, with the city mostly found with the sun shining. In the cooler months, the weather tends to stay mild and comfortable. It’s easy to see the changing seasons with rich fall colors and snow quite common in the winter.
If you’re venturing out into the mountains of Washington, then the climates can vary more so you may need to plan this into your trip more than in the city.
What Clothes To Pack For Your Trip
During spring and summer, packing some light clothing will be enough if you’re going to be walking around sightseeing. Make sure to pack some comfy sneakers that will allow you to get through a busy day walking from different locations.
You can pack a light rain jacket, however, it’s unusual for it to rain at this time of year. In the fall and winter when temperatures drop, make sure to pack some warmer clothes and waterproofs with rain being more likely.
As well as a hat, scarf, and gloves to keep you comfortable in the chilly winds.
Outside The Centre
Outside of the capital center in Western Washington, there are the beautiful Olympic Mountain Range and Cascade Mountain Range. These are perfect for those wishing to venture out of the city for hiking and stunning views.
The most popular mountains to climb in the Olympic Range are Mount Washington, Mount Olympus, and Mount Ellinor, varying in difficulty and expertise. There are a number of different routes to take through the mountains, so be sure to research ahead of time to find the best one for you.
The environment around the mountains is incredibly diverse, there is even a rainforest to explore! Due to this, the weather and climate vary significantly, so make sure to find out the conditions to prepare for before your trip.
There are beautiful blue lakes and rivers, lush greenery, and plenty of wildlife, making for fantastic photography opportunities.
The stunning Lake Diablo is like something out of a fairy tale, located in the North Cascades, it features perfect turquoise waters surrounded by trees and mountains. If you’re after picturesque scenery, it’s a must-see.
