Gauss-Telegraph: World trip from home in 30 days – Washington DC

Gauss-Telegraph: World trip from home in 30 days – Washington DC

by Evelyn Agren

Washington DC

Washington Monument

Washington DC is the capital of the United States and holds a lot of cultural and historical significance in addition to its political significance. It is located on the east coast, at the northern tip of Virginia. Three sides of the border are a perfect square, and the fourth side is the Potomac River that divides Washington DC from Arlington, VA. The city was founded in 1791, so it has many historical buildings and areas. While Washington DC is a big city, the population is still much smaller than New York city and the lifestyle there is not as bustling. All along the river’s edge are parks where people can enjoy nature and a more peaceful atmosphere. The largest part of Washington DC’s economy comes in the form of political jobs. All branches of the federal government of the United States is located there. There is also a large tourism economy since DC has so many museums and memorials, and visitors can also learn about American politics.

Must-see attractions

Washington DC is home to over seventy National Historic landmarks, so there is no shortage of sights to visit. One must-visit site in DC is the National Mall, a large park between the Lincoln Memorial and the Capital Building. The National Mall is the site of many landmarks, such as the Washington Monument, the Korean War Veterans Memorial, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, and the National World War II Memorial. Nearby is the tidal basin which is the location of cherry blossom trees gifted to the United States from Japan, and many more landmarks are situated along the water’s edge. Every year in the spring there is a festival to celebrate the blooming of the cherry blossoms. There is also the White House, home to the American president. This neoclassical building is one of the most iconic sights to see, but most people only see it from afar since security is very strict and it can be difficult to gain access for a tour.

Lincoln Memorial

People who are interested in the government of the United States can also tour the Capitol Building which houses Congress and is the site of national lawmaking. A fun fact about buildings in Washington DC is that none can be taller than the Capitol Building, which is 88 m. Georgetown is one area of DC where you can find charming old buildings and cobblestone streets with shops and restaurants. Nearby this neighborhood is Embassy Row, a street along which most of the embassies are located.

Best museum in the city

One of my favorite things to do in DC is visit the Smithsonian museums. There are 19 museums/galleries which are all free admission to the public. Many of these buildings are located along the sides of the National Mall, and they are some of the oldest buildings in the United States. Two of my favorites are the National Museum of Natural History, where you can see the Hope Diamond, and the National Portrait Gallery, which houses the presidential portraits. There are also art museums, cultural and historical museums, and science museums, all free of charge.

 

 

Note: Due to the spread of the coronavirus, we don’t recommend to travel until the all restrictions have been lifted.