Must-See Monuments & Memorials
Underappreciated Monuments & Memorials
VIBs – Very Important Buildings
Green Areas
City Hot Spots
Smithsonian Museums
Other Museums
Map
Must-See Monuments & Memorials
DC is known for it’s amazing monuments and memorials – many of which are centrally located around the National Mall. You could spend a morning hitting up the “big ones” on this list or come back to your favorites again and again and again. To note: sunrise and sunset are especially beautiful times. And obviously, be prepared to brave the tourists (especially during summer!).
Underappreciated Monuments & Memorials
A number of these monuments and memorials may not be as grand as the “must see” monuments listed above, but they are definitely worthy of a stop. In addition, many are located within steps of some of the larger and more famous monuments so they are quick and easy to “check off”…refer to the map below so you don’t miss them!
VIBs – Very Important Buildings
Some of these VIBs (“Very Important Buildings”) are museums, some are monuments, some are offices, some are a combo of each, and some don’t really fit into any particular category. Regardless, make sure to check out some of these DC must-sees, even if it’s just to walk by and marvel.
Green Areas
All that white marble is beautiful, but sometimes you just need some more nature – and less people. There are SO many green gems in DC to explore (many of them not very well known, even to locals!), without ever leaving the confines of the city grid! PS. Did you know DC is the only city with more green space than roads or buildings per person?
City Hot Spots
These areas of the city are away from the buildings around the Mall and slightly off the traditional sightseeing path (aka less touristy, but only a little). From a giant food hall to a waterfront paradise, check out these hot spots to feel like a real DC local.
Smithsonian Museums
The Smithsonian Institution is the world’s largest museum complex. With 20 locations in DC (and a handful in NYC), you will never run out of new exhibits to see – or tire of the tried-and-true wonders that these museums, gardens, hangars, and zoo hold for visitors and locals alike. An additional bonus – all of these museums are FREE!
Other Museums
DC astounds me by the sheer number of museums it has – and how many are constantly opening, closing, showing new things, having something famous about to leave…there is so much culture and so much to learn in this city! Although DC’s free Smithsonian offerings can leave you spoiled, don’t miss some of these other amazing museum options.
Map
This is the map I wish someone had created for me when we found out we were going to be stationed in the DC area for 4 years. Click on the top left icon in order to filter (and make it a little more manageable to view!)
Jelly Side Up 