National Gallery of Art
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6
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Though there are favorite pieces at other American museums, this one is a vast national feat boasting America's great collections of work throughout history. West Building houses works by Europeans from the medieval through the late 19th century, as well as pre-Modernist works by Americans. East Building holds modern and contemporary works.
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National Air and Space Museum
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5
0
The National Air and Space Museum is not just about displays and broad education. It is also a cornerstone for research. Research about the history of and science behind aviation and space, yes. But also, of planetary science, geophysics, and geology. Short of a visit to NASA, this is as close as many of us can get to these amazing innovations.
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Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial
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9
1
There are many important memorials and sights to see along the Tidal Basin and the National Mall. This is the first (of hopefully many) which commemorates a non-white figure in American history (let's hope the count of women and of diverse figures goes up as well). The monument features an MLK quote and a gorgeous view of the Tidal Basin.
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United States Botanic Garden
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9
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Established in 1820, this free attraction is well worth a visit and consists largely of a gorgeous enormous greenhouse located on the corner of the National Mall adjacent to the United States Capital and the National Museum of the American Indian.
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Politics & Prose Bookstore and Modern Times Coffeehouse
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6
2
As much a cultural hub as it is a bookstore, Politics & Prose serves as a gathering place for people interested in reading and discussing book--a breed that many in America think is dead, and yet, this cultural hub is always filled with thinkers and readers.
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Hirshhorn Museum and Sculpture Garden
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5
1
Just over 40 years old, the Hirshhorn is a place of art, criticism, and dialogue in its history and in the contents within the museum. The sculpture garden is unique and hosts a spectrum of things from a wishing tree to works by Rodin. The Hirshhorn has thousands of pieces and boasts contemporary exhibits year round.
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National Cherry Blossom Festival, Inc.
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5
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Similar to New England's season of "leaf peepers", the Cherry Blossom Festival draws many tourists hoping to see the cherry trees "in peak". The festival lasts about two weeks, as more and more activities and celebrations have become part of the ritual of the seasonal ritual. Events include the big parade, tours on foot and bike, and more.
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Thomas Jefferson Memorial
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5
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The iconic structure that houses the statue is made of circular steps, a portico, and a dome held up by large columns. The interior houses Jefferson's statue as well as a frieze below the dome with some of the most important American rhetoric by Jefferson on it: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal..."
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Meridian Hill Park
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7
1
Because the park is on a hill's slope, the tiered levels provide scenic views, interesting architecture, and a variety of vibes in each pocket on any given Sunday, if you will. The upper mall has been used for concerts, gatherings, and even political rallies during the late 60's. Currently, drum circles are common.
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George Washington's Mount Vernon Estate, Museum & Gardens
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5
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Mount Vernon is a scenic American pastoral. It has a rich history (both of war and peace in America) for many Americans, particularly those with congressional and/or military roots. Besides being a piece of important history, the grounds also get you to Virginia where you can see the Potomac, and where you're a hop-skip from Arlington Cemetery.
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Tidal Basin
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One of the most stunning, picturesque DC spots in town, the Tidal Basin is perfect for tourists and locals alike to go for a stroll, take photographs, and feel at one with both nature and urban life. There are beautiful things to see and do during every season at each of the landmarks around the basin, as well as the National Mall adjacent to it.
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Lincoln Memorial
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5
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"In this temple, as in the hearts of the people, for whom he saved the union, the memory of Abraham Lincoln is enshrined forever", bears the inscription behind Honest Abe. And it is true, this memorial has become a kind of sacred space, especial with regard to civil rights. It is especially notable as the backdrop to MLK's "I Have a Dream" speech.
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C&O Canal
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3
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In the summer, you can frequently spot wild animals such as turtles and heron, and year-round, the canal offers lovely views of the Potomac River. The Canal starts at Georgetown, making a visit (whether for 30 minutes or three hours) convenient and worthwhile.
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Washington Monument
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The monument can be waved at from a distance, admired up close with a walk-around of the cornerstone memorials and flags, or visited properly through the visitor center and a trip up to the viewing deck. The monument is one of the tallest landmarks in the US. The landmark has seen its fair share of contemporary controversy, so tickets are required.
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Newseum
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4
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With 15 galleries and 15 theater spaces, the Newseum covers many important news events internationally and historically. One highlight is the "Today's Front Pages" Gallery, which boasts daily front pages from nearly 100 international newspapers. Another popular feature is Newseum's Berlin Wall gallery, which displays panels of the Berlin Wall.
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