Top Places to See When Driving From Arlington, Virginia to Washington, District of Columbia

Are you planning a road trip to Washington, D.C. from Arlington, Virginia? If yes, you have made a great choice. Washington, D.C. has a lot of tourist attractions, and driving from Arlington will make it easier for you to explore the city’s highlights.

This blog post is a guide to the top places to see when driving from Arlington, Virginia to Washington, District of Columbia. Buckle up, and let's get started!

The National Mall

The National Mall is located in the heart of D.C., spanning over two miles from the Lincoln Memorial to the United States Capitol. This vast, open space is surrounded by some of the most iconic attractions that the city has to offer.

The National Mall is home to several memorials, museums, and monuments such as the Washington Monument, Vietnam War Memorial, Korean War Memorial, and World War II Memorial.

One of the popular attractions in the National Mall is the Lincoln Memorial. This iconic landmark honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States. It's an imposing marble building with 36 Doric columns that represent the number of states at the time of Lincoln's death. You can climb up the stairs, and from the top, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the National Mall and the surrounding areas.

Georgetown

Georgetown is a charming, historic neighborhood that lies just west of downtown Washington, D.C. and north of the Potomac River. It's a vibrant pedestrian-friendly area with a unique mix of historic architecture, boutique shops, fantastic restaurants, and Georgetown University.

One of the unique attractions in Georgetown is the C&O Canal, which runs through the neighborhood. You can take a stroll along the towpath and enjoy the natural beauty of the canal. You can also rent a bike and explore the canal further.

Another popular attraction in Georgetown is the Washington Harbour. It's a waterfront complex with restaurants and bars that offer stunning views of the Potomac River and the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts.

The Smithsonian Museums

The Smithsonian Institution is the world's largest museum, research, and education complex, with 19 museums and galleries, the National Zoological Park, and various research stations worldwide.

All of the Smithsonian Museums are free to visit, and there is something for everyone. From art museums to science museums, there is a lot to explore and learn. Below are some of the popular Smithsonian Museums in Washington, D.C.

National Museum of Natural History

The National Museum of Natural History is the most visited of all the Smithsonian Museums. It has over 150 million natural science specimens and artifacts, including the Hope Diamond, the giant squid, and the Butterfly Pavilion.

National Air and Space Museum

The National Air and Space Museum is the most popular of all the Smithsonian Museums and the largest. It has a vast collection of aircraft, spacecraft, and artifacts related to aviation and space exploration.

National Museum of American History

The National Museum of American History tells the story of America's past, from the colonial period to the present day. It has several galleries that showcase the country's cultural, social, and political history.

The White House

No trip to Washington, D.C. is complete without a visit to the White House. The White House is the official residence of the President of the United States and has been the home of every US president since John Adams.

While you can't tour the White House on your own, you can take a guided tour arranged by your member of Congress. You must request tickets for a White House tour at least 21 days in advance of your visit.

United States Capitol

The United States Capitol is the home of the legislative branch of the US government, and it's a beautiful building with stunning architecture. Visitors can take a guided tour of the building, which includes a tour of the Rotunda, the Crypt, and the National Statuary Hall.

The United States Capitol is not just a beautiful building; it's also a historic building. You can learn about the country's history and how the government operates by taking the guided tour.

Conclusion

A road trip from Arlington, Virginia, to Washington, D.C., is a fantastic way to explore the city's highlights. The top places to see when driving from Arlington, Virginia to Washington, District of Columbia include The National Mall, Georgetown, The Smithsonian Museums, The White House, and the United States Capitol.

Make sure you take your time to explore each of these attractions and create lasting memories. With all these amazing sites to see, you're sure to have an unforgettable trip to Washington, D.C.