Chinatown and Penn Quarter Walking Tour, Washington D.C.

At only a few blocks in length, Washington DC's Chinatown may be a lot smaller than other Chinatown's in US cities, but it is no less dynamic, fascinating and exciting. Asian restaurants abound as do beautiful architectural and design details such as pagoda-style roofs and Chinese calligraphy. When you visit be sure to stand by and photograph the Friendship Arch. Marvel at the workmanship that went into the making of this traditional Chinese gate, which consists of thousands of colorful tiles and more than 200 painted dragons. It is the largest free standing arch in the United States and marks the city’s close friendship and ties with Beijing. Close to Chinatown is Penn Quarter, referred to by some as old downtown. This is a revitalized and reenergized hub of arts and entertainment, bursting with theaters, galleries, nightclubs, restaurants, hotels and fashionable boutiques. Within the neighborhood's limits are several landmark buildings, including the J. Edgar Hoover Building (headquarters of the FBI), the National Portrait Gallery, the US Navy Memorial and the Verizon Center. This is a vast sports and entertainment arena where you can watch basketball, hockey and concerts by some of the biggest musical acts in the world.