By Sophia Sullivan, Editor-in-Chief
Washington, D.C., is an often-overlooked trip location in a world that craves tropical, relaxing vacations. However, as the nation’s capital, it is the home of numerous hidden gems, historic monuments, and fascinating museums, which are absolutely worth the trip.
This is a destination where history buffs, museum lovers, and politically minded people can learnand explore the place where many historic events took place. And, almost all of these sites are free, making it a perfect spring break trip for college students looking to stick to a budget.
If you fit this description, be sure to check out these attractions in Washington, D.C.
1. National Museum of African American History and Culture
One of Washington’s newer museums, the National Museum of African American History and Culture, is not one to miss. Since it opened in 2016, this museum has been a popular favorite.
The museum has multiple levels, special exhibits (including sports and military), and a three-part history gallery. You can see items that belonged to notable figures, such as Harriet Tubman’s handkerchief, Rosa Parks’ dress, and a training aircraft for the Tuskegee Airmen. It is a powerful journey of the history of African Americans in this country, a group that has so often been silenced.
For more information and to reserve timed-entry tickets, visit their website here.
2. The National Mall
Think of any monument that you associate with Washington, D.C., and you can find it in the National Mall. Among bustling crowds, you can view impactful landmarks, each unique in their own way. These sites are reminders of history and bring the stories you’ve grown up hearing to life.
Sites such as the Vietnam Veterans Memorial and the Korean War Veterans Memorial highlight and honor the lives of soldiers who fought, and died, in those wars. These memorials are typically quite a somber and quiet experience. You’ll hear hushed voices as people try to locate names on the wall or snap a photo of an American soldier hiking through the “jungles” of Korea.
You can stop by the Lincoln Memorial and stand in the very spot where Martin Luther King Jr. gave his “I Have a Dream” speech in 1963 and imagine the throngs of people around the Reflecting Pool listening to him.
Also, make sure to walk by the U.S. Capitol Building, which is also located along the Mall. Its incredible dome-shaped top is hard to miss, and you’ll want to take some photos once you see it.
For this one, make sure to bring your walking shoes, as it requires a bit of a (worthwhile) trek.
To plan your path, visit this website.
3. Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History
For those more interested in science and nature, the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History is a popular museum for Washington, D.C., visitors. Here, you can see the infamousHope Diamond, rumored to curse anyone who possesses it.
Also, be sure to visit the fan-favorite Butterfly Pavilion, for which you’ll need to purchasetickets. Here, butterflies fly freely around the pavilion, and one might even land on you!
To learn more, click here.
4. George Washington’s Mount Vernon
Although it isn’t technically in Washington, D.C., George Washington’s Mount Vernon is a charming estate in Virginia (a short 15-mile drive from Washington), which was home to the Founding Father George Washington himself.
Take a tour of the mansion with a spectacular view of the Potomac River, the tombs of Washington and his wife, Martha, the enslaved people’s quarters, and so much more. Washington’s infamous set of teeth are even featured in the museum!
If you’d like to stop and relax during your visit, they also offer a 45-minute narrated cruise on the Potomac River.
This is the only attraction listed that you must buy a ticket for. Check out their website for tickets and more information.
5. Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum
If you’re looking for something truly out of this world, visit the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum on your Washington, D.C. trip. From the history of flight attendants, to the real 1903 Wright Flyer, to the Apollo 11 Command Module, to the Star Trek Starship Enterprise Studio Model, there is something to pique anyone’s interest.
These spacecrafts are larger than life and shocking to see in person, after solely viewing them on television.
Even if you don’t consider yourself someone interested in air or space, give this museum a chance. You may be surprised!
To reserve free time-entry passes, visit their website here.
6. Arlington National Cemetery
If you don’t mind taking a few-mile drive across the Potomac River, then it is absolutely worth itto spend some time at Arlington National Cemetery.
Spanning 639 acres, the cemetery is extremely powerful. But, you can also visit the John F. Kennedy Gravesite (with the eternal flame lit by Mrs. Kennedy), Arlington House (the home of Robert E. Lee), and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, where you may even catch the Changing of the Guard.
Also, keep in mind it is important to remain quiet and respectful when visiting Arlington National Cemetery, as it is the resting place of many who fought for the United States.
For those wanting to explore the cemetery on foot, no passes are required. However, if you’d prefer to take a tram tour (which is highly recommended), then you can buy passes from their website.
7. Smithsonian American Art Museum
For those looking to engage in arts-centered activities, the Smithsonian American Art Museum spans from the colonial era to present day and houses a multitude of American art.
There are multiple different rooms dedicated to each American era, including colonial, Civil War, Reconstruction, and early modernism.
The museum also features the National Portrait Gallery, featuring portraits of thousands of famous figures, like film stars, politicians, and scientists. There is also a permanent Presidential Portrait collection, which truly showcases the essence of America.
This museum is completely free of charge, but for more information, check out their website here.
8. Georgetown
If you’re the type who prefers roaming historic streets, looking in shop windows, and eating at unique restaurants, then consider a walk through Georgetown, a neighborhood of Washington,D.C., filled to the brim with history and charm. It is worth the visit to walk the cobblestone streets, see the colorful townhouses, and catch a glimpse of the canals.
M Street is one of the best shopping streets in the entire country, overflowing with shops and restaurants to satisfy anyone’s taste.
And, of course, Georgetown is home to the famous Georgetown University. Established in 1789 (only 13 years after the United States became a country), the university possesses stunning architecture and character.
Fans of the movie The Exorcist will be happy to know that the iconic stairs are in Georgetown, too!
So, ditch those tropical vacation spots this spring break and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of American history. Washington, D.C., awaits with open arms (and free museums!). It may not be your typical vacation spot where the sand sticks to your toes, but it’s a journey that will stay with you long after you leave. Will your next adventure be filled with sunshine and relaxation, or will you choose to delve into the heart of American history?
