Washington
Washington Guía de la ciudad
Washington, D.C., is known as the capital of the United States and serves as the political, historical, and cultural center of the country. This fascinating city is full of iconic monuments, museums, and events that attract millions of visitors every year. In addition to being the center of various cultural and artistic events, Washington DC is also famous for its restaurants where you can taste the most delicious dishes of world cuisine.
Washington, D.C. is a dynamic city that offers visitors with an unforgettable experience. It offers many places to explore and activities for history, culture, art, and food lovers. Come on, start exploring this amazing city!
Things To Know Before Going To Washington DC
- Happy Hour is a real tradition in Washington DC and offers a great opportunity to socialize and meet new people.
- There is a noticeable presence of a large homeless population in certain areas of the city.
- Knowing in advance about the aggressive nature of mosquitoes in the area would have been helpful.
- The metro system in DC provides access to many destinations, while the bus network offers even broader coverage, reaching virtually anywhere in the city.
- Washington is the second highest wine producing state in the country.
Washington DC Tips From Locals
- When riding on any escalator in Washington DC, it's imperative not to stand on the left side, as this area is reserved for those who wish to walk up or down swiftly.
- In Washington DC, it's essential to recognize that red lights do not necessarily indicate that cars will come to a complete stop. Drivers in the city can be unpredictable, and pedestrians should exercise caution even when the walk sign is illuminated.
- Washington is considered the most dog friendly state in America.
- The grayness is real and it’s the reason so many people are hesitant about visiting Washington.
Where is Washington DC?
Washington, D.C. is the capital of the United States and is located in the South Atlantic region of the country. The District is located on the northern shore of the Potomac River and is bordered by the states of Maryland to the north, east, and west, and Virginia to the south across the river.
Where To Stay In Washington DC?
Here’s a quick table for which areas in Washington DC are great for tourists:
District | Best For | Best Attractions | Average Trip Cost (Per Day, per person) |
---|---|---|---|
Dupont Circle | Nightlife and Culture | Dupont Circle Fountain, Phillips Collection, Embassy Row | $150 - $250 |
Capitol Hill | Architecture | United States Capitol, Library of Congress, Supreme Court | $150 - $250 |
Georgetown | Shopping and Dining | Georgetown Waterfront Park, M Street Shops, Georgetown University | $200 - $300 |
Foggy Bottom | Proximity to Attractions | George Washington University, Kennedy Center, Watergate Hotel | $150 - $250 |
Penn Quarter | Entertainment Hub | National Gallery of Art, Ford's Theatre, International Spy Museum | $200 - $300 |
Best Hotels in Washington DC
Washington, D.C. offers a variety of accommodation options for every budget. Here is a table we recommend for visitors based on different preferences:
Hotel | District | Affordability | Why To Stay There? |
---|---|---|---|
Four Seasons Washington DC | Georgetown | Luxury | Luxurious amenities, private balcony, and a prime location near the White House. Enjoy a private cabana by the pool and a full-service spa |
The Hay-Adams | Downtown | Luxury | Historic building, elegant decor, and a prime location near the White House. Enjoy a private balcony and a rooftop pool with great views |
The Ritz-Carlton, Washington, D.C. | Downtown | Luxury | Luxurious decor, private balcony, and a prime location near the National Mall. Enjoy a private cabana by the pool and a full-service spa |
The St. Regis Washington, D.C. | Downtown | Luxury | Luxurious decor, private balcony, and a prime location near the National Mall. Enjoy a private cabana by the pool and a full-service spa |
The Ritz-Carlton, Pentagon City | Pentagon City | Luxury | Luxurious decor, private balcony, and a prime location near the Pentagon. Enjoy a private cabana by the pool and a full-service spa |
Hampton Inn Washington; D.C./White House | Downtown | Midrange | Convenient location near the White House, modern amenities, and an indoor pool |
Hotel Madera | Dupont Circle | Midrange | Charming boutique hotel, great neighborhood vibe, and a cozy restaurant |
Club Quarters Hotel Washington; D.C. | Downtown | Midrange | Affordable rates, modern amenities, and a prime location near attractions |
Kellogg Conference Center | Capitol Hill | Budget | On-site dining, budget-friendly prices, and a convenient location |
Days Inn by Wyndham Washington DC/Connecticut Avenue | Downtown | Budget | Enjoy a private balcony with stunning city views, relax by the rooftop pool, and take advantage of the hotel's convenient location near the National Mall |
Motel 6 Washington DC Downtown | Downtown | Budget | Experience the vibrant energy of the city from your private balcony, enjoy a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool, and take advantage of the hotel's affordable rates |
Red Roof Inn Washington DC | Lanham | Budget | Relax in a cozy room with a private balcony, enjoy a refreshing dip in the rooftop pool, and take advantage of the hotel's convenient location near major attractions |
There is so much more of Washington waiting for you to discover! Find the best hotels in Washington DC easily!
Places To Visit In Washington DC
Here’s the list of top Washington DC attractions you shouldn’t miss during your visit:
- Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial: A national memorial dedicated to the civil rights leader, featuring a large statue and a wall inscribed with his famous "I Have a Dream" speech.
- U.S. Capitol: The seat of the U.S. Congress, located on Capitol Hill and featuring a neoclassical structure completed in 1800.
- Washington Monument: A 555-foot obelisk located on the National Mall, built to honor the first U.S. president, George Washington.
- Lincoln Memorial: A national memorial dedicated to the 16th U.S. president, Abraham Lincoln, featuring a large statue and a wall inscribed with his famous Gettysburg Address.
- Potomac River: A 405-mile river that flows through Washington, D.C., and is a popular destination for boating and fishing.
Is Washington DC Safe?
Washington, D.C. is generally considered a safe destination for travelers, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings, especially in certain neighborhoods, and take standard precautions to protect themselves and their belongings.
Is Washington DC Expensive To Visit?
Like any international capital, D.C. is an expensive place to visit. However, Washington DC offers a range of free and affordable attractions for visitors.
Currency & Exchange in Washington DC
The official currency of Washington DC is the US dollar. Both card payments and cash payments are relevant in Washington. While there is a preference for card payments in Washington DC due to its technology-driven environment and convenience, cash is still widely accepted in bars, restaurants, and businesses in the city.
Spoken Languages in Washington DC
English is the official language of Washington, D.C., USA. However, there are also other languages spoken in Washington. Here is a list of languages spoken in Washington:
- English: 81.2%
- Spanish: 10.2%
- Chinese: 2.1%
- French: 1.5%
How Many Days Are Enough To Visit Washington DC?
Spending at least 3 days in Washington DC is recommended if you do not have much time to stay. Ideally, you would come to Washington, D.C. for a whole week or more. There are plenty of attractions, zoos, museums, and tours, as well as great food, music, and art to explore in Washington, D.C.
What To Do in Washington DC?
Here is a list of the most popular activities to do in Washington DC:
- Museum Hopping: Explore Smithsonian museums like the National Museum of American History and National Air and Space Museum.
- Monuments and Memorials Exploration: Visit iconic landmarks such as the Lincoln Memorial and Washington Monument.
- Historical Walking Tour: Discover the city's rich history with guided walks in Capitol Hill or Georgetown.
- Kayaking on the Potomac: Enjoy scenic views of the city's skyline while kayaking on the Potomac River.
- Night Tour of Monuments: Experience illuminated monuments on a guided evening tour.
- Escape Room Experience: Solve puzzles and mysteries in thrilling escape rooms.
- Food Truck Festival: Sample gourmet street food at a culinary festival.
When Is The Best Time To Stay In Washington DC?
According to the U.S. News Travel, the best times to visit Washington, D.C., are from September to November and March to May. In the autumn, the sweltering summer is gone, taking with it most of the peak season tourists.
What To Pack For Your Washington DC Trip?
Here’s the packing list for Washington D.C. depending on which season you plan to visit the city:
Spring (March to May): Bring your comfortable walking shoes that are water-resistant, lightweight, breathable clothing like t-shirts and pants, light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings or evenings, an umbrella and lightweight rain jacket, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
Summer (June to August): Comfortable, breathable clothing like shorts and t-shirts, water-resistant walking shoes, lightweight jacket or sweater for air-conditioned buildings, a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses.
Fall (September to November): Jeans or pants, long-sleeve shirts, and light sweaters for layering, jacket or coat for cooler weather, comfortable walking shoes or boots umbrella or rain jacket.
Winter (December to February): Warm coat, gloves, hat, and scarf, long pants and long-sleeve shirts, thermal layers like long underwear, waterproof, insulated boots and hand/toe warmers.
What To Eat at Washington DC?
Washington offers a variety of options to its visitors with its food culture that combines world cuisines. Here are the most popular Washington restaurants:
- Half Smokes: A popular local food item in Washington DC, half smokes are smoked sausages similar to hot dogs but larger and spicier.
- Ben's Chili Bowl: An iconic restaurant in DC known for its chili dogs, half-smokers, and hearty bowls of chili. It has been a favorite among locals and tourists alike since 1958.
- L'Ardente: A cozy Italian restaurant situated in the Adams Morgan neighborhood, providing modern Italian cuisine and a welcoming ambiance.
- Hi-Lawn: A rooftop bar located at Union Market, offering skyline views of the city and a variety of craft cocktails and small bites.
- The Wharf: A vibrant waterfront destination in Southwest DC that offers restaurants, shops, entertainment venues, and picturesque views of the Potomac River.
- Beteseb Restaurant: An Ethiopian eatery in DC that serves authentic Ethiopian cuisine, including injera (a sourdough flatbread) and flavorful stews, providing a taste of Ethiopian culture in the heart of the city.
Washington DC Nightlife
Washington's nightlife is legendary, offering a diverse array of experiences for every taste. Here are some of the best places to spend your night in Washington:
- 9:30 Club: One of the most iconic music venues in DC, known for hosting a wide range of live performances and concerts.
- Eighteenth Street Lounge: A popular lounge and nightclub with a lively atmosphere, diverse music, and an energetic crowd.
- DC9 Nightclub: A vibrant nightclub featuring DJs, dancing, and a lively nightlife scene.
- Ultrabar: A multi-level nightclub with a high-energy atmosphere, popular for its nightlife and dancing.
- The Fox and Hounds Lounge: A casual, dive bar-style lounge with a free jukebox, known for its lively weekend parties.
- Decades DC: A nightclub and lounge with a retro, 1980s-inspired theme and a diverse music selection.