The
epicenter of American politics, the District of Columbia is teeming with invigorating
history and gorgeous monuments. While walking through the open space of the
National Mall, you can feel the presence of the influential figures that have
graced the city’s past. Wandering through the grass on a sunny day will feel
like an adventure with knowledge as the treasure chest.
With dozens of magnificent sights to see, here are a few suggestions to kick off your D.C. expedition.
Thomas
Jefferson Memorial
Possibly the most visually stunning monument in all of D.C., the Jefferson Memorial is dedicated to the founding father who penned the Declaration of Independence. The domed structure overlooks the Tidal Basin and is a beautiful sight to behold at sunset during cherry blossom season.
Once you step inside, you will be greeted by a statue of the third president of the United States surrounded by some of his most decorated writings. Jefferson’s thoughts on freedom and liberty are beautifully highlighted in this remarkable display.
Abraham
Lincoln Memorial
As
you march toward the end of the National Mall with the Reflecting Pool, you
cannot help but be amazed by the Lincoln Memorial basking in the sunlight. The breathtaking
columned structure is lined eloquently by vibrant trees and the steps lead to an
awe-inspiring statue honoring America’s 16th president.
The gigantic depiction of Abraham Lincoln was crafted with distinct precision to highlight his leadership of the country through its most turbulent time. You will find two of his most famous speeches engraved in the surrounding walls, The Gettysburg Address and his second inaugural address to the nation.
You can feel the history beneath your feet as you stand at the very spot where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “I Have a Dream” speech.
The
White House
Admire more brilliant architecture as you walk over to the residence of the most powerful office on the planet. The building has housed the President of the United States for over 200 years and the exquisite design is a symbol of resilience in American history. Overcoming a horrendous fire in the early 19th century, The White House stands proudly today surrounded by the greenery of the North and South Lawns.
Free
Museums
Washington
D.C. is a history buff’s paradise and you can spend weeks exploring the
captivating museums in the nation’s capital. The toughest decision will be
deciding where to begin.
The National Air & Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, National Museum of American History, National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the National Gallery of Art are just a handful of places to check out to enrich your knowledge.
One by one, you can waltz into each museum as many of them are situated along the National Mall.
United
States Capitol
Arguably
the most iconic building in the United States, the U.S. Capitol is the home of
the two chambers of the United States Congress. The beautiful piece of
neoclassical architecture sits along the far end of the National Mall opposite
of the Lincoln Memorial. For visitors, it can be an incredible feeling standing
just outside the doors where the laws of the land are crafted.
If you have some extra time on your hands, head over to the Library of Congress next door to rummage through the world’s largest library.
Featured image by David Mark from Pixabay
