Washington D.C.

National Mall

In a city absolutely crammed with sights and attractions, the National Mall is the heart of tourism in the USA's capital. National museums abound with the Gallery of Art, Air and Space Museum, Museum of the American Indian and the Museum of American History. The Smithsonian Institute oversees many of them and most are open for free. To see more of the political side of Washington D.C. head to the Capitol Building, the White House, the Supreme Court or the National Records and Archives. Union Station is nearby so a hotel anywhere near there, or on Capitol Hill will put you in a great spot. Strolling through the National Mall you will see both the Lincoln and Washington Memorials as well as memorials to the Vietnam War, Iwo Jima, the Korean War and World War II.

Central Washington D.C.

The area surrounding the Mall is just as crammed with sights so stay in downtown or Georgetown to be nicely placed to see all these sights. The National Portrait Gallery and the American Art Museum add culture to the area whilst the International Spy Museum is a great place to learn some espionage! To get away from the hustle and bustle the C&O canal awaits; hire a bike and get exploring. Or take a wander around the tidal basin to spot the Jefferson and Roosevelt Memorials. Lafayette Square and Bartholdi Park and Fountain provide light relief as well as a liberal sprinkling of history whilst the Library of Congress overflows with knowledge. To see more of the artistic side of this very serious city go to see a show at the John F Kennedy Centre for Performing Arts.

North and East Washington

Further out from the centre it's best to look for Washington D.C. hotels that are near the subway lines, but you can get great deals if you're willing to travel a little each day. The National Zoo is a great free attraction, with its giant pandas a huge draw, whilst the gothic stylings of the National Cathedral conjures up images of old European capitals, despite being finished in 1990. If you like your art cutting edge then head to the Phillips Collection, the first modern art gallery in the USA, or see the native trees at the US National Arboretum.

West Washington

Over the river can be a great place to stay as long as your primary consideration is the transport links, otherwise your good deal could soon seem like a hassle. The Pentagon sits in pride of place here, with the Arlington National Cemetery adjacent, where army veterans from the civil war to the present day reside. The Air Force Memorial also pays tribute to fallen servants. Slightly further out, the Old Town in Alexandria provides a great place for contemplation as you stroll down the quaint old streets.

Further Afield

As if there weren't enough attractions crammed into Washington D.C., there are also some great trips you can take to the outskirts. South of the city, George Washington's former home at Mount Vernon has been dedicated a National Historic Site, and touring the house and gardens is very popular, whilst there are always open air gigs at Wolftrap Farm throughout the summer so why not book tickets? The finest collection of Russian art in the US is on display at the Hillwood Museum out to the north of the city, and in the south you can visit the Kenilworth Aquatic Gardens in the Anacosta Park.