If you are a person who is fascinated by the history of the United States, you need to take a trip to the nation’s capital city, Washington, D.C. You will be able to tour the buildings where the policies of the country are made. You can also take a close look at the documents that the founding fathers of the country wrote and signed over two centuries ago. These documents gave American citizens the freedoms that they still enjoy to this day. Are you interested in finding some discount hotel and airfare for your upcoming trip to Washington? If this is the case, Hipmunk is a website that can help you do this. Here are some tips that will help you with planning your trip to the nation’s capital.
1. The White House
There are not many countries on this planet where people are allowed to tour the home of the leader of the country. However, the United States is one of these countries. The White House is open for tours that will allow you to see the home that every president has lived in, with the exception of George Washington. The house is basically a museum, featuring some of the greatest presidential paintings and historical artifacts. The opportunity to tour the home of the leader of the free world is not one you should pass up.
2. The U.S. Capitol Building
The United States Capitol Building is one of the most famous buildings in the country. Its iconic dome is instantly recognizable to people from all around the world. This is the building where members of the senate and congress debate various issues and vote on them. It is also the location of the president’s annual State of the Union address to the country. Inside the dome of the capitol is an incredibly beautiful painting that is worth the visit all by itself.
3. The National Archives
The three most important documents in the history of the United States are all housed under the same roof. The Declaration of Independence, the Bill of Rights and the Constitution. All of these documents are often referred to as the Charters of Freedom. These documents were drafted to officially form the United States and declare it a separate country that would not accept being ruled by England. They are some of the most brilliantly crafted documents that you will ever read. To see them in person can be a very powerful experience.
4. Lincoln Memorial
Many people like to debate who the best United States president was. One of the names that is usually featured prominently in such a debate is Abraham Lincoln. His contributions were so great that the nation saw fit to honor him after his tragic death by building a large monument. The statue at the front of the memorial with Lincoln sitting in a chair is one of the most famous statues in the history of the country. Contrary to popular belief, Lincoln is not actually buried inside the memorial. His body was laid to rest in a tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery, located in his hometown of Springfield, IL.
5. The Washington Monument
The tallest building in the city will provide you with some great views. However, you will need to climb an enormous amount of steps to get to the top.
This article was contributed by Fiona Moriarty of Hipmunk, a travel website that offers customers a fast and easy way to find the best travel deals.
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8 Comments
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We were in DC for a day, as we were on a road trip. Unfortunately we didn’t have more time to stay. We were able to hit Arlington National Cemetery (which is amazing), Smithsonian Natural History Museum, Lincoln Memorial, The Washington Monument, The White House, and one other location that I can’t remember off the top of my head right now. They were quick trips, but at least we were able to see them and enjoy them somewhat. I could easily stay there weeks and never see it all. It’s a place I’d love to go back to.
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I don’t live too far from DC and so I’ve been there several times with my family and on school trips. Other times we’ve just passed through. The most difficult part of getting there and being there is the driving. There is so much traffic and confusion all around the Capital Beltway that it is just a nightmare. I would suggest a bus tour for newbies or if you don’t like city driving.
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Visiting the Nations Capital is on my bucket list. Thank you for the information.
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I have always wanted to visit DC, especially to tour the museums.
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As a student I wasn’t interested at all in history and now I’m fascinated so hope to do this some day!! Thanks!!
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I love all the Smithsonian museums especially the Space one.
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I would love to visit DC myself. Thank you for the share!!
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I live very close to DC. We went once last year and saw some things, but there is still so much more to see. Thanks for the post.
