When to go
Washington, D.C., the Capitol of the United States, is one of the most remarkable places to go on vacation. From the history and attractions to the fine dining and entertainment, its one of the most well rounded places to take a vacation. If you have the flexibility to plan your vacation to D.C. during any time of the year, the best time to buy your airline tickets for is during the spring or fall. Spring is noted for the abundance of cherry trees in bloom and the many gardens are awash in color. Fall sees the gorgeous colors of the multitude of trees and a crispness to the air that invites an invigorating walk among the many historical sites.
How to get there
The Washington, D.C. area is served by three different airports: Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA), Dulles International Airport (IAD), and Baltimore-Washington International Airport (BWI). Depending on your destination, some airlines may offer better prices from one location than another. You may also find direct flights from one airport and not from another.
Where to stay
If you're interested in the bustle of downtown D.C., the River Inn is a perfect place to stay. Situated just minutes from the State Department and Kennedy Center, this hotel features the critically acclaimed Dish Restaurant. If you're on vacation but still cant leave business behind, the Hotel George will fit your needs. High-speed Internet access and a comfortable room, just a stones throw away from the Capitol, are the standard for this hotel. For travelers who seek luxury and romance, the Mandarin Oriental Hotel provides both. Featuring the $8,000 per night presidential suite and packages such as the “Sensual Delight” the Mandarin is well suited for the vacationing couple in search of a memorable stay. The River Inn is located at 924 25th St. NW. The Hotel George, is located at 15 E. St. NW. The Mandarin Oriental Hotel, is located at 1330 Maryland Ave. SW.
What to do
Nearly everyone who visits the Capitol will go to see the standard fare of historic landmarks and museums. However, after you've exhausted some of those venues, you may be interested in taking a deeper look at the city.
One of the nation's best zoos has experienced some amazing growth and world-renowned exhibits. The zoo features Tai Shan a giant panda born in 2005 and will be opening the new Asia Trail featuring exotic animals from the Asian continent.
The Phillips Collection art museum features free admission to one of the most impressive permanent collections of 20th century art.
One of the oldest markets in the United States, the Eastern Market, is a public market featuring various fare in food and drink. On the weekends, regional farmers stop in to sell their fresh produce.
The Library of Congress features one of the first books ever printed using movable type: the Gutenberg Bible. With three buildings and countless rows of books, you could spend the entire day here and never see everything.
Where to eat
By the time you've stopped in at the major historical sites and visited the wonderful array of lesser-known places, you'll probably be looking for a place to grab a bite to eat.
Bangkok 54; 2919 Columbia Pike, Arlington. This Thai restaurant is a bit hard to find, nestled into a busy strip mall. Once you've eaten there, though, you'll realize the search was well worth it.
Oyamel; 401 7th St. NW. If you're searching for Mexican cuisine, Oyamel features everything from oxtail tacos to salt foam topped margaritas. Not only is the food unique, but it's also well priced for the budget conscious.
Comet Ping Pong; 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW. Do you want to enjoy your food, but worry about how many calories you're stuffing yourself with? This art-centered restaurant offers an intense menu of gourmet pizzas that can be worked off with a game of ping-pong at any of the tables in back.