The quiet capital of the United States is only apparently … quiet. Washington DC (District of Columbia) is in fact a magical place, born on an esoteric map, traced on well-defined rituals by an ancient Kabbalah. Washington is home to secret maneuvers, spies in transit, intrigues, political moves that revolve around the place that for Americans is even sacred: the White House. And tourists? How do they experience the American capital? They snub it a bit … but they shouldn’t. Here we tell you why.
Best period to visit Washington
Washington DC is livable and enjoyable in the “shoulder seasons”. Late spring and fall are the ideal times to organize a trip – or even just a day trip, if you are already in the States – to discover the capital. The climate is pleasant, not very rainy and especially suitable for the many guided tours to museums and palaces.
Travel documents
When you plan your trip to the United States from abroad, you must know first of all that you need a valid passport and an ESTA visa (i.e. the mandatory electronic tourist stay permit that you fill in and obtain online). You can add travel medical insurance to these basic documents. It is not mandatory but highly recommended, because in America health care is very expensive and you have to cover the costs in anticipation.
What to pack for your trip to Washington
To go to Washington, you will first need to pack adapters for electricity and devices with chargers. Then, don’t worry about choosing your clothes: both sporty and elegant ones are fine. Don’t forget jackets and sweaters, they will be useful especially in the evening. Prepare for the tour of the capital with the right guide-books to get a preview of the many museums, monuments and events that you will find during your stay. Bring a good camera with zoom if you want to try a close-up photo of the White House. Because it is not always allowed to take selfies on site.
How to get to Washington
Usually, people go to Washington “in transit”, when they are already staying somewhere else more exciting (New York, Boston, the Carolinas). So the most convenient way to reach the American capital is by land.
You can easily get to Washington DC by car, by buses, by train. The capital is, of course, well served by motorways and airports. There are two local international airports (Washington Dulles IAD and Washington Reagan DCA) and a third airport also serving the city of Baltimora.
How to explore Washington
The Washington Metro Area Transit Authority (WMATA) operates the Metro Rail and Metro Bus services, making them the most popular modes of public transport in DC. Public buses are managed by the “DC Circulator System”, loved by residents for its affordability and routes that cover many of the tourist hotspots.
If you prefer the scenic route, Capital Bikeshare offers thousands of bikes across numerous stations in DC. You can rent a bike with a single trip pass or access bikes for a full day with a 24-hour pass. Explore Washington DC from a different vantage point, that is… from the river: with the Water Taxi service. Connecting The Wharf to Georgetown, Old Town Alexandria, and National Harbor, the water taxi is not just a mode of transportation but a mini sightseeing opportunity in itself.
What to see
Start your Washington tour by visiting the National Mall, a verdant stretch lined with some of the most significant memorials and museums in the United States. Pay homage to American heroes at the Lincoln Memorial, Washington Monument, and the World War II Memorial. The capital is of course a haven for knowledge seekers with its wealth of free museums, including the Smithsonian Institution, the National Museum of Natural History, the National Gallery of Art, and the National Air and Space Museum.
The recently established National Museum of African American History and Culture adds a poignant element to the city’s cultural tapestry. Experience the political heartbeat of the nation with a tour of Capitol Hill, where the United States Capitol, Supreme Court, and Library of Congress stand. While tours of the White House require advance planning, the mere sight of this fabled residence is an essential DC experience.
Escape the urban buzz in Rock Creek Park, an urban oasis larger than New York City’s Central Park, or marvel at the blossoming cherry trees in spring at the Tidal Basin. The city’s natural beauty provides a tranquil counterpoint to the bustling city streets.
What to do and NOT to do in Washington
Take Washington at “slow pace”. This is a lovely “small town” offering many things to see in short distances. So, when in Washington, take your time to stroll around, visit museums and art galleries, learn about history and politics. In the evening, enjoy the local restaurants and pubs but, still … no hurry!
As for things you should NOT do: do not show cash money, jewels or very expensive smartphones in very crowded areas; do not walk alone (in late evening) in places such as Brentwood, Anacostia, Stadium-Armory; don’t eat in local Chinatown; do not drive a rented car in the city (Washington’s traffic is the worst in America, after New York’s).