Though most people equate the United States Capitol with politics, tourism is Washington D.C.'s second biggest industry, and you don’t have to spend much time in the nation’s showcase city to see why. Commissioned in 1790 by George Washington to rival Paris, central D.C. is packed with opulent state buildings, imposing national monuments, and riveting world-class museums.
The United States Capitol is one of America’s architectural treasures and is a good place to start exploring. The centerpiece of a complex that includes the House and Senate Offices, the U.S. Botanic Garden, the Library of Congress, and the Supreme Court, this Romanesque masterpiece serves not only as the meeting place of the nation’s legislature but as a history and art museum, drawing millions of visitors each year.
At the foot of the Capitol, The Mall unfolds like a monumental green carpet to the Potomac River where the definitive Washington, Lincoln, Jefferson, and Roosevelt memorials stand proudly. Along either side of the nation’s massive front lawn are some of the main buildings of the Smithsonian, the world’s largest museum complex, with 19 museums and 9 research centers, sharing artifacts, programs, and expertise with more than 90 cultural institutions in 23 states. Just to the north stands the unmistakable White House.
Despite the convenient proximity of all these centrally clustered sights and attractions, you’ll get the best taste of day-to-day DC in one of its charming outlying residential neighborhoods, such as historic Georgetown, sophisticated Dupont Circle, or diverse Adams Morgan with their bustling restaurants, pubs, cafés, and shops.
United has operated at Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) since 1963 and currently offers nearly 300 daily departures from the airport, making it one of United’s largest hubs. The more centrally situated RonaldReaganNationalAirport (DCA) is another convenient option serviced by United. Book your next flight to or from WashingtonD.C. onunited.comand find out how to earn bonus miles when you stay at any Mileage Plus partner hotel or dine at any Mileage Plus partner restaurant in the city. For vacation packages to Washington including air and accommodation, visitUnitedEscapes®.
