There’s a lot to do and see in our nation’s capital. Monuments and memorials abound. Washington Monument, Lincoln Memorial and its reflecting pool, Jefferson Memorial, Vietnam Memorial, WW2 Memorial, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier! The White House is home to the president. The Capital Building is the home of Congress. If you write to your congressman ahead of time, you can schedule a tour of either the White House or the Capital Building.

 

The Smithsonian is a group of museums and research centers ran by the government and established in 1846 for the “increase and diffusion of knowledge” that can take a couple of days to see everything in all the museums. It includes the National Air and Space Museum, National Museum of Natural History, American Art Museum, and National Zoological Park, among others. 

 

Just outside of town, in Arlington, you’ll find Arlington Cemetery. This is the national cemetery for the branches of the US military. The Tomb of the Unknown Soldier is here and is guarded at all times by soldiers. The changing of the guard is a spectacle to see. The Iwo Jima Memorial representing the marines of WWII is also at the Cemetery. None other than John F. Kennedy, himself, is buried in Arlington. At his grave, you’ll find the John F. Kennedy Eternal Flame Memorial in his honor.