When planning your summer vacation, go to a city that’s filled with great ways for you to learn. Washington, D. C. comes to mind.
Every year, millions of people come and see this city and it can be the place where you’re going to learn about the history and how this great nation was shaped. Let’s look at some of the attractions that bring visitors to the Capital City every year.
The National Mall is the Center of it All
More than 1,000 acres of space is covered by the National Mall which spans the distance between the U.S. Capitol Building and the Lincoln Memorial. Between these two amazing icons, you’ll see the Washington Monument. Around the mall are many of the Smithsonian Museums and you’re sure to see many people enjoy a wonderful day in this large park area.
You’ll Want to See what Rock Creek Park has to Offer
Rock Creek Park was created by an act of Congress in 1890 to be a recreational area that is protected. You’ll find more than 1,800 acres of lush landscape to give you an amazing area to enjoy. There are more than 32 miles of trails for hiking, paved areas for biking, and amazing scenery. Spend an entire day at this park when you’re in Washington, D. C.
Visit Some of the War Memorials
One of the most famous war memorials in the area is the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, also known as “the Wall”. This is a long black granite wall with the names of more than 58,000 Americans who either died or were missing in action during this war. If you’re in the National Mall area, you can see the Korean War Veteran’s Memorial with 19 stainless steel statues in the Field of Service.
Spend an Afternoon at the National Museum of African American History and Culture
To honor the history and culture of African Americans, the Smithsonian added this amazing museum in 2016. This is now an iconic museum where you can find many artifacts that tell a story of struggle, hardship, and overcoming enormous odds. Spend an entire afternoon admiring the many artifacts on display when you’re in Washington, D. C.
Enjoy a Meal at Le Diplomate
One of the most expensive restaurants to build and decorate is Le Diplomate. You may never have the chance to dine at this amazing French restaurant again, which means you should head to this location and have a meal. There are many signature dishes that can be great for you to enjoy the experience which offers you the perfect European dining feeling.
Photo Opportunities Await You at the Tidal Basin
The Tidal Basin is a large pond that used to be part of the Potomac River. This waterway can be the ideal backdrop to photos you want to take of monuments across the water or around you. While you’re planning your trip to Washington, D. C. for the summer, you might want to come back in the spring and see the cherry blossom trees in bloom around the city and along the banks of the Tidal Basin.
Take in a Show at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
One of the most famous places to see a play or listen to the National Symphony Orchestra is at the Kennedy Center. The REACH opened in 2019 as an expanded commitment to the arts with tons of performance spaces and lecture halls. This expansion brings more performances to the Kennedy Center and should be part of your vacation time in this amazing city.
Check Out the Modern Art at the Hirshhorn Museum & Sculpture Garden
If you’re looking for modern art and culture in one place, this is the site you want to see. This museum was completed in 1974 to house the collection of Joseph Hirshhorn, but many new pieces have been added since that time. If you’re looking for art from a more recent time, this is the place to go when you’re on vacation in Washington, D. C.
You Must See the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
The monuments and historical museums are part of every vacation in this great city, but one place that is made for everyone is the National Air and Space Museum. If your kids are tired of history and art, it’s time to let them be amazed by the discovery and development of flight that was started in the United States. Check out this museum and enjoy the amazing attractions offered.
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