The National Archives is a repository of some of the United States' most cherished historical documents. Within its confines, you'll find significant pieces such as the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the Declaration of Independence. These invaluable documents, collectively referred to as the Charters of Freedom, are prominently displayed in the Rotunda for the Charters of Freedom, where they are always on view.

Additionally, there are accessible public vaults containing over 1,000 records related to American democracy. Among the treasures held here are telegrams sent by Abraham Lincoln to his generals and handwritten notes penned by George Washington. These records are divided into five separate vaults, each named after a theme from the Constitution's preamble, covering topics like law, citizenship, war, milestones, and record-keeping for the benefit of future generations.

Visitors can also take advantage of the William G. McGowan Theater, which screens informative films about the National Archives and the Charters of Freedom. Furthermore, there are numerous exhibits to explore in the Lawrence F. O'Brian Gallery.

The National Archives and Records Administration is conveniently located on Pennsylvania Avenue, situated between 7th and 9th streets. Access to the Rotunda is granted from Constitution Avenue. Admission is free, but during peak tourist seasons, you can reserve a nonrefundable ticket for entry. Those with tickets should use the special events door on Constitution Ave. to gain access.

If you're a nature lover and wish to delve into the fascinating story of our planet, from its fiery beginnings through billions of years of transformation, then The National Museum of Natural History in Washington, D.C. is where you should head!

Otherwise known as The Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History, for being administered, when opened in 1910, by the Smithsonian Institution, this museum boasts the largest natural history collection in the world!

Indeed, here you can indulge your passion and explore life on Earth in the vast 325,000 square feet of exhibition space, featuring more than 146 million objects and specimens of plants, fossils, minerals, rocks, animals, meteorites and other artifacts. Some of the most valued collections are presented in the Hall of Geology, Gems, and Minerals, the Hall of Paleobiology, and other exhibitions.

Among the permanent exhibits on site there are the Hall of Human Origins exploring the epic story of the human species evolution over 6 million years; the Sant Ocean Hall demonstrating intrinsic connection of the ocean to the daily lives of people around the world; the Ancient Egypt mummies; some 300 vertebrate skeletons; and the African Voices exhibit examining the diversity and global influence of Africa’s peoples and cultures.

Additionally, the Museum incorporates an IMAX Theater and a fun Discovery Room on the first floor.

Why You Should Visit:
Great choice for eclectic viewing as there's much more on display than expected, including, for instance, the Hope Diamond and other treasures from the National Gem Collection. Also, a great place for kids, as they will be in awe the whole time with the many levels to check out. The gift shops are awesome – one gears towards children and the other more towards adults.

Tip: If you don't mind walking outside, the food trucks on the Mall will give you a better deal on food items.

The National Museum of American History is a diverse collection of American artifacts and history. It is affiliated with the Smithsonian Institution and is situated on the National Mall. Its doors first opened in 1964 under the name "The Museum of History and Technology," but its mission has evolved over time, leading to a change in its name.

The museum's current exhibits include notable items such as the original Star-Spangled Banner, the iconic ruby slippers from "The Wizard of Oz," Phyllis Diller's comedy archive, and a Buffalo Soldier's coat. Outside the museum, you'll find an abstract sculpture crafted from granite and stainless steel.

Inside, you'll discover three floors filled with historical treasures, along with films, interactive experiences, educational programs, and special events. The first floor's east wing delves into transportation and technology, while the west wing explores science and technology. Moving up to the second floor, you'll encounter exhibitions dedicated to American ideals and lives. Meanwhile, the third floor's east wing covers American wars and politics, while the west wing focuses on entertainment, sports, and music.

Throughout the first and second floors, you'll come across artifact walls featuring small exhibits. One of these walls is dedicated to the evolution of Chinese cuisine in America over the past century. These walls are positioned along the central cores of the two floors. Additionally, the museum offers two cafes and several stores, making it advisable to plan a full day visit to fully explore and appreciate everything it has to offer.

Why You Should Visit:
To learn or relive American history; to appreciate what growing up in early American history was like compared to today.

Tip:
It is advisable to spend some time becoming familiar with the museum layout and featured halls. This way you can target specific areas of the museum to visit and better maximize your time here.
To better navigate your way around the museum, use the free maps including the museum layout and where to find each gallery.
Also, check the museum website beforehand for extended hours information!

The White House address on Pennsylvania Avenue, Washington, D.C. is both home and office of the American President, much as the symbol of the United States. While this is not the first home of American presidents, it has been the home of every American President since John Adams moved in here during his presidency in 1800. The design was made by James Hoban and the construction started with the laying of the cornerstone in 1792. Each president ever since has added their own touch to the people’s house, some big and some small.

The original White House was burned, almost to the ground, by British troops in 1814 during the War of 1812. Rebuilding soon began and was finished by 1817. The South Portico was added in 1824 and the North Portico followed in 1830. The West Wing came during an addition in 1901 and then later the Oval Office was added. A fire of 1929 damaged the West Wing but the damage was repaired, and in the 1930s, a second story and basement were added, upon which the Oval Office was moved to its present location.

By 1948 the building was in need of a serious repair prompted by numerous additions made over the years. Load bearing beams were installed and a complete dismantling of the interior was undertaken. Sadly, most of the glorious handcrafted work was lost during that process. In the 1960s Jacqueline Kennedy oversaw another extensive redecoration of the White House whereby some of the artifacts, previously lost, were brought back and the building returned to its grander days.

Today, the White House has six stories, 132 rooms and various amenities including a tennis court, swimming pool, bowling alley and, of course, the First Garden. Following the attacks of 9/11, the White House is no longer open for tours, except on a very limited basis. All those wanting a tour must ask their Congressional representatives to put them on a list and have background checks completed prior to the visit.

Tip:
The entire tour is self-paced, so you might want to brush up on your White House history (War of 1812, etc) ahead of time, so as to maximize the experience. You will only be visiting the East Wing, so that will limit how much you need to research.
If you're you don't get a tour time, don't be heartbroken. Stand in front of the White House and take a group photo, then head over to the Visitor Center and use the interactive displays where you can see the same rooms.

The World War II Memorial has a grand design that reflects the vastness of a war that spanned the entire globe. Two arches at either end of the memorial are symbolic of the Pacific and Atlantic areas of fighting. 56 pillars are arranged in two semicircles around both arches that represent the 48 states at the time of the war and the District of Columbia, plus the territories of Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, Guam, U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa, and the Philippines.

The walls between the arches and in front of the pillars depict scenes that were typical of the Pacific and European theaters of the war. These are depicted in bas relief. An engraving of the ubiquitous “Kilroy Was Here” is also present. "Kilroy Was Here" is a meme that became popular during World War II, typically seen in graffiti. Its origin is debated, but the phrase and the distinctive accompanying doodle became associated with GIs in the 1940s.

On the west side sits the Freedom Wall that contains 4,048 gold stars each one representing 100 American soldiers who died or remain missing during WWII. Behind the Freedom Wall is the Reflecting Pool on the Mall. In front of the wall is the World War II Memorial Rainbow Pool and the stars reflect in the water. It makes for a very moving scene.

Almost 2/3 of the site is water or landscaping so the components of the memorial really stand out. The site is available for visiting 24 hours a day except around Memorial Day activities. Rangers are on hand to answer questions from around 10am to 11pm.

Why You Should Visit:
One of the more formal-style memorials, it carries a certain gravity, conveys a somber nature, and provides lots of space to reflect on the drama of WWII.
The small bronze relief panels on the walls show scenes of different wartime activities that give you a bit more insight into the lives of people during the war.
The entire site sits on a little over seven acres, so wear comfortable walking shoes.

Tip:
Entry is free but do it on a clear day if you can. On a wet day, there is nowhere much to shelter. If you join a guided tour, it's recommended to get some explanation of all the symbolism and pageantry.

The Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial can be found in West Potomac Park, Washington DC, situated to the southwest of the National Mall. This imposing monument occupies the northwest corner of the Tidal Basin, close to the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial. It's strategically aligned in a way that connects the Lincoln Memorial to the northwest and the Jefferson Memorial to the southeast. The monument's official address, 1964 Independence Avenue, S.W., commemorates the year the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights movement with Dr. King's significant involvement.

Spanning four acres, the memorial was opened to the public on August 22, 2011, following over two decades of planning, fundraising, and construction. Originally, a dedication ceremony was planned for Sunday, August 28, 2011, which marked the 48th anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.'s "I Have a Dream" speech delivered from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in 1963. However, this event was postponed to October 16, the 16th anniversary of the 1995 Million Man March on the National Mall, due to Hurricane Irene.

While Washington DC has other memorials honoring African-Americans, Dr. King's memorial holds special significance as the first to commemorate an African-American figure on or near the National Mall. He is also only the fourth non-President to be memorialized in such a manner. The administration of the King Memorial falls under the purview of the National Park Service (NPS).

A 30-foot-high relief sculpture of Dr. King, called the "Stone of Hope," stands beyond two granite pieces representing the "mountain of despair." Visitors metaphorically trace Dr. King's life journey as they approach it. A 450-foot inscription wall showcases excerpts from his speeches and sermons, featuring 14 quotes spanning from the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott to his last sermon in 1968, four days before his assassination.

The relief of Dr. King is designed to create the impression that he is gazing out over the Tidal Basin towards the horizon, not towards the Jefferson Memorial, as is commonly believed. The cherry trees that adorn the site bloom every year during the anniversary of Dr. King's death, adding a poignant touch to the memorial's symbolism.

Why You Should Visit:
The memorial itself – a magnificent statue of King carved from white stone is worth checking out, but the quotes are really what make this memorial poignant.
People of all colors, creeds, religious backgrounds, ethnicities, etc., could benefit from reading – and thinking about – his many words of wisdom.

Tip:
Particularly beautiful in spring, when white blossoms on cherry trees and new-green leaves on other trees surround the memorial.
Photographers: Try to go on a cloudless day when the white stone contrasts with a clear blue sky.

The Korean War Veterans Memorial stands in West Potomac Park within Washington, D.C. Its purpose is to pay tribute to all those who served during the Korean conflict. The United States provided assistance to South Korea when it was invaded by North Korea at the behest of the United Nations. The U.S. had divided opinions about the conflict, often referring to it as a "conflict" rather than a full-fledged war. The Korean War was a grueling battle that took place in extremely harsh conditions, with temperatures dropping to as low as -40°F during the Chosin Reservoir battle.

The memorial is designed in the shape of a triangle and is constructed using juniper and strips of concrete to mimic the rugged terrain of the battlefield. This triangular shape symbolizes the Field of Service. Within this landscape, you'll find 19 statues of soldiers dressed in military attire, their clothing appearing to be windblown, evoking memories of the brutal weather conditions endured. These soldier statues are crafted from stainless steel. On the south side of the memorial, there's a black granite wall that reflects the statues in such a way that it creates the illusion of a total of 38 soldiers, paying homage to the 38th parallel, which separates North Korea from South Korea.

At the end of the Field of Service, there's a triangular reflecting pool. Along the northern side, there's a low granite wall bearing the names of the 22 United Nations member countries that participated in the Korean War. The memorial is open for visitors around the clock, and park rangers are on hand from 8 a.m. to 12 a.m. daily, except for major holidays.

Why You Should Visit:
The company of soldiers depicted as moving through hostile terrain is a bit eerie and very lifelike, making this one of the most remarkable war memorials you'll ever see.

Tip:
Truly better to visit after dark; the lighting is so very dramatic, you can almost hear the soldiers' boots sloshing through the mud.
Additionally, use your phone flashlight to look carefully at the black wall that has images of soldiers laser-etched onto the black surface.

The Lincoln Memorial is one of the most famous monuments and historical places in the United States. It is a nationally recognized location that was built in honor of Abraham Lincoln, who was the 16th President of the United States during the bloody years of the Civil War. The monument is a fine example of a classic Greek Doric temple. Even the sculpture of the President is done in Olympic Godlike fashion. Two well-known speeches of the former President are also engraved there: the Gettysburg Address and Lincoln’s Second Inaugural Address.

The Lincoln Monument Association was formed two years after the death of the President. Planning for the memorial, though, stretched out until 1901. The Lincoln Memorial Bill was signed by President Taft in 1911. Interestingly, the entire monument was built for just $2 million. Today, the site is famous as the location for many historic speeches, like the “I have a dream” speech by the Rev. Martin Luther King. It has also been the site for many famous protests. The Monument is cared for by the National Park Service and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The monument is open 24 hours a day.

Why You Should Visit:
The most visited memorial in the National Mall for a reason; it is beautiful and offers a fantastic view of the reflecting pool and the Washington Monument.

Tip:
Go first thing in the morning (probably before 9am) or later in the evening (when the lights are on) to avoid the crowds.
Right on the steps, look down on the floor for the "I have a dream" block. It's where MLK, Jr. stood when he gave his most famous speech.
Pack your food and water (in the summer) because the food at the refreshment stands is not very good and somewhat overpriced.

When most people think of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial (VVM), they typically envision the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. There are two other components to the memorial, however: The Vietnam Women’s Memorial and the Three Soldiers statue. All three components are located in Constitution Gardens of the National Mall.

The U.S. involvement in Vietnam began in 1959. The last US serviceman died in Vietnam on May 15, 1975. Throughout this time the country had varying degrees of support for the war. One of the precepts of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was to not let any of the controversy mar the honoring of the service men and women who served during that time. Even though the memorial itself has had some controversy, time is healing the wounds. The somber reflecting wall with all the names etched into stone lets visitors to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial focus on the sacrifice that has been made. There are currently 58,267 names listed on the wall of service personnel that was either killed or missing in action. There are no civilian names listed on The Wall.

The Vietnam Women’s Memorial is situated just south of The Wall. It shows three uniformed women helping a wounded soldier. The women’s names are Faith, Hope, and Charity. A total of 67 women died during the Vietnam War – 8 were servicewomen, and 59 were civilians in a support role.

The Three Soldiers portion of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial was created amid the controversy that surrounded The Wall. Some members of Congress wanted a more traditional memorial. The bronze statues of the service members depict soldiers wearing the common gear of the Vietnam War. They are positioned so they are looking at the names on The Wall.

The Vietnam Veterans Memorial is open 24 hours a day with rangers available to answer questions from 9:30am to 11:30pm. There are directories at the entrance to The Wall to help you find a specific name. There are also several websites that list the names on The Wall.

Why You Should Visit:
The gravity of the Vietnam War is not truly understood until you see all the names etched for eternity on the memorial's wall.

Tip:
Do it on a clear day if you can. On a wet day, there is nowhere much to shelter.
If you want unobstructed photographs or more peaceful, quiet visits, it is best to visit very early in the morning, just after daybreak.

The Franklin Delano Roosevelt Memorial, located in Washington D.C., is dedicated to commemorating Franklin Delano Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, and the historical era he represented. This memorial is one of two in Washington that pays tribute to Roosevelt.

It was officially inaugurated on May 2, 1997, by President Bill Clinton. Situated on a 7.5-acre site next to the southwest side of the Tidal Basin, along the Cherry Tree Walk in West Potomac Park, the memorial chronicles 12 years of American history through a series of four outdoor rooms, each corresponding to one of FDR's presidential terms. Sculptures, inspired by photographs, portray the 32nd president alongside his dog, Fala.

The memorial also features sculptures depicting scenes from the Great Depression, such as people listening to Roosevelt's fireside chats on the radio and waiting in bread lines, including a bronze sculpture created by George Segal. Another prominent sculpture portrays First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt standing in front of the United Nations emblem, honoring her commitment to the UN. Notably, this is the only presidential memorial that includes a depiction of a First Lady.

In recognition of Roosevelt's own physical challenges, the memorial's designers aimed to make it accessible to individuals with various physical impairments. Among its accessibility features is an area with tactile reliefs featuring braille writing for visitors who are blind.

Why You Should Visit:
Impressively laid out memorial (going through all four of FDR's terms) that feels both monumental and serene at the same time – like a mini outdoor museum.

Tip:
Make sure to approach from the Lincoln Memorial, so you can enjoy the FDR memorial in a chronological order.
You can walk through the exhibit on your own or you can request a tour from the park rangers. They are on duty to answer questions from 9:30am to 10pm daily.

The Thomas Jefferson Memorial can be found in Washington, D.C., situated along the banks of the Potomac River. Interestingly, it tends to receive fewer visitors compared to other memorials, possibly due to its location outside of the National Mall. Consequently, a visit here is typically quite tranquil. Moreover, it enjoys a picturesque setting, positioned just to the south of the White House.

The concept for this memorial was conceived in 1901. Following extensive deliberation and multiple design revisions, it was ultimately dedicated on April 13, 1943, which is significant because it marked the 200th anniversary of Thomas Jefferson's birth. One of the primary points of contention during discussions about the memorial was its size. There were differing opinions regarding whether it should be grand in scale, comparable to the Washington Monument or the Lincoln Memorial, in recognition of Thomas Jefferson's role as one of the Founding Fathers.

Ultimately, the proponents of Jefferson's affinity for classical architecture prevailed, leading to the construction of this imposing classical edifice. The open structure features a magnificent sweeping portico and houses a 19-foot tall bronze statue of President Jefferson beneath its dome. Notably, the statue that stands there today is not the original one from the dedication. Due to wartime shortages of bronze, the original statue was crafted from plaster and painted to resemble bronze. The current bronze statue was installed four years later.

Adorning the walls surrounding the statue are inscriptions of Jefferson's writings. An intriguing historical tidbit is the difference in wording between Jefferson's original "inalienable rights" and the final document's "unalienable rights" in the Declaration of Independence. At the Jefferson Memorial, the inscription adheres to Jefferson's original wording. While the site's beauty is ever-present, it is particularly breathtaking during cherry blossom season. The cherry trees adorning the area were a gift from the people of Japan.

The Jefferson Memorial remains accessible 24 hours a day, with park rangers on duty from 9 am to 11:30 pm, excluding major holidays.

Why You Should Visit:
Terrific spot to people watch and take in the DC skyline while sitting on the memorial's many steps.
Its backsides are often forgotten about but are also good for taking in the views and architecture.
Located at the back of the Tidal Basin, this is one of the most iconic and calming sites in DC.

Tip:
Make sure to check out the bookstore and educational displays downstairs. Restrooms available there too.

The United States Holocaust Memorial Museum (USHMM) stands as the official American tribute to the Holocaust. Situated near the National Mall in Washington, D.C., this institution serves as a hub for the preservation, analysis, and understanding of Holocaust history. Its primary mission is to assist global leaders and citizens in confronting hatred, preventing genocide, championing human dignity, and fortifying democratic values.

The USHMM, conceived by architect James Ingo Freed, was purposefully designed as a "memory amplifier." Its exterior seamlessly blends into the surrounding Neoclassical, Georgian, and modern architectural landscape of Washington, D.C. However, upon entering the museum, each architectural element transforms into a poignant reference to the Holocaust. In crafting the building, Freed meticulously studied post-World War II German architecture and made visits to Holocaust sites across Europe. The museum's physical structure and the exhibits within it are intentionally crafted to evoke emotions of deceit, fear, and solemnity-contrasting with the typical comfort and grandeur associated with public buildings in Washington, D.C.

The collections within the USHMM encompass an impressive array of historical materials: over 12,750 artifacts, 49 million pages of archival documents, 85,000 historical photographs, a registry of more than 200,000 survivors and their families, 1,000 hours of archival footage, 93,000 library items, and 9,000 oral history testimonies. Additionally, the museum has appointed teacher fellows in every U.S. state and, since 1994, nearly 400 university fellows from 26 countries.

Researchers affiliated with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum have meticulously documented a staggering 42,500 ghettos and concentration camps established by the Nazis across German-controlled regions of Europe during the years 1933 to 1945.

While geographically situated in the same vicinity as the Smithsonian museums, it's important to note that the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum operates independently, boasting its own governance structure. Nevertheless, the museum and the Smithsonian frequently collaborate on joint projects.

Tip:
To get tickets (needed Mar-Sep), log in at 6am on the day you wish to go. You'll probably get them. They are free but there's a small convenience charge. You can show the tickets on your phone, so no need to print them. Once you have your arrival time, be prepared to wait outside for at least an hour, so make sure you build that into your time table.

The United States Capitol stands at the opposite end of the National Mall from the Washington Monument. This huge building holds the House of Representatives in the south wing, and the Senate in the north wing. There are 540 rooms, five floors and the beautiful Capitol Rotunda which additionally houses art and sculptures. The artwork depicts events and figures from American history.

After much wrangling about the design, the Capitol cornerstone was laid by President Washington, who was dressed for the occasion in full Mason attire, on September 18, 1793. The north wing was completed in 1800. For several decades, beginning when the federal government moved to Washington in the fall of 1800, the Capitol building was used for Sunday religious services as well as for governmental functions.

Soon after the building was fully completed in 1811, the Capitol was partially damaged in August 1814 during the burning of Washington in the course of the War of 1812. The burnt down portions were rebuilt and the Rotunda was added in 1826. In the 1850s the Capitol was expanded further with a new cast-iron dome added to replace the wooden Rotunda, following which several more renovations and expansions have been made. Among them is The Apotheosis of Washington fresco painted on the inside of the dome, visible through the oculus from the Rotunda floor.

The Capitol is open to visitors and offers free tour. Tickets are available at the Capitol Visitor Center on the first come-first served basis. This center is new, having opened in 2008. There is a 15-minute orientation film about the Capitol that is well worth viewing.

Visitors to the Capitol can watch Congress in action from designated galleries. Passes are available from the offices of Senators and Representatives. If visiting when Congress is in session, be sure to contact your local official and see government in action. Overseas visitors can apply for the passes at the Senate Appointment Desk and the House Appointment Desk inside the Capitol Building.

Tip:
First off, book your 45-min tour early to avoid missing out and to give yourself a bigger range of time slots.
You'll still have to go to the desk to pick up your ticket by showing the online receipt on your phone.
Get there 30-45 mins before your tour due to security checks before entry (food & drinks are prohibited).
When you've finished your visit, use the tunnel just before the exit to go directly to the Library of Congress (no additional security check).
Interestingly, both the east side and the west side of the Capitol can be designated as the front, so just be aware that “front” is not the best descriptive designation here.