by Brian Saucedo
Look no further where curiosity and exploration may lead. Our nation's capital has a wide array of beautiful monuments, great eateries, and fun for the entire family. Many may be intimidated by the city for many reasons, whether it is parking or simply not knowing where to begin. This guide will help you get around and even let you know where to park.
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Starting Point & Parking
Parking in DC is never easy. According to INRIX it is the fourth most painful city to park in the nation but don't let that discourage you, we have the inside scoop on where to park. In the inner city it will take you about 10-15 mins to park but Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial boasts with plenty of parking spaces and if you can't find one here on the first time around, look around Ohio Dr. as it extends for quite a length where surely you will find a parking space.
From here there are 5 min walking distances to Thomas Jefferson Memorial and Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial.
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Head Over to The U.S. Capitol
Capital Hill will certainly make you feel like a tourist but don't be discouraged you can even reserve in advance to go inside where our nation's bills become laws. After you take some pictures head over to the Botanic Garden.
United States Botanic Garden
Sprawling grounds featuring exotic flora plus conservatory, rare plants gallery & butterfly garden.
Admission is Free
Open every day 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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Visit The Air and Space Museum
The Air and Space Museum will surely make you feel like a child again. From flight simulators to fun filled NASA adventures there isn't an exhibit you'll want to miss here! Dig deep into our solar system and experience the universe as we know it, current exhibits feature 50 Years of Apollo and The Wright Brothers.
Admission is Free
Open every day 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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Lunchtime
1005 E St NW, District of Columbia 20004From all the exploring surely you will be hungry! Are you feeling pizza? Hispanic Food? Spanish Food? Feeling Mexican? Feeling Italian or even burgers? We have you covered.
Our Picks
Pizza
&Pizza is hands down the best bang for your buck. Enjoy a personal pizza with unlimited toppings and even house sodas.
Hispanic
Tortilla Café: Salvadoran pupusas & roast chicken plus Mexican tamales, tacos & more in a counter-service eatery.
210 7th St SE, Washington, DC 20003
Spanish
Jaleo: Buzzy Spanish spot from chef José Andrés serving tapas, paella & sangria in a striking, artsy space.
480 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Mexican
Oyamel Cocina Mexicana: Lively, upscale spot with creative Mexican tapas & street food, plus a lengthy cocktail & wine menu.
401 7th St NW, Washington, DC 20004
Italian
Carmine's Italian Restaurant: Southern Italian cuisine is served family-style at this sprawling 1930s-style dining hall.
425 7th Street NW at, E St NW, Washington, DC 20004
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View The Beautiful National Portrait Gallery
The National Portrait Gallery is a trip of its on for any art enthusiast. It boasts exhibits featuring our presidents, black pride, and even modern art that will make you question, it. There are many levels so don't get lost. If you're feeling even more adventurous check out the Spy Museum across the street!
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The White House
If you look around while at this landmark you will see people from every corner of the planet lining up to take pictures. As you wait your turn in queue view the Washington Monument where we will be heading to shortly in this guide.
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Crawl...Walk to The Museum of Natural History
This is a must see for the entire family. Not only does it trace back to prehistoric times but exhibits range from dinosaurs to rare gem. This acclaimed museum celebrates the natural world. If you want to take a gem home make sure to visit the gift shop where the the gems are.
Admission is Free
Open every day 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
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Look Up At The Washington Monument
This is the tallest structure in the city which rises 555 feet and was completed in 1884. Rising above the National Mall and quite frankly in the center of it, it honors America's first President, George Washington.
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Climb The Steps of Lincoln Memorial
As you cross 17th street you will find the World War II Memorial showcasing the 50 States in beautiful architecture you start to glimpse the Reflecting Pool which is an iconic walk over to the Lincoln Memorial. This is a Parthenon-inspired tribute to Abraham Lincoln with a 19-ft. marble statue. Once you climb all the steps and finish taking pictures of Mr. Lincoln turn around and view across the reflecting pool as you will see the Washington Monument and even the Capitol.
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Grab a Cupcake
We get it some places are overhyped but this one is probably the one that is hyped up the most because it deserves it! Again, depending on the time and day you may either wait in line around the block (we're not joking) or simply walk in. This light-filled corner space specializes in gourmet cupcakes made on-site daily.
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Kayak On The Potomac
A trip to Georgetown in DC can be done by bike, uber, or even in your own car. Parking in Georgetown is even trickier then downtown DC but we also know where the best parts to park are. Depending if it is a weekday or a weekend along Water St. in Georgetown you will find the best spot to park.
Enjoy The views of the Potomac River at Georgetown Waterfront Park but if you are feeling adventurous try kayaking or even paddleboarding.
Boating in DC
Kayaking starts at around $15 for an hour. You can paddle around the bridge or head over to the small islands splattered around the river.
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Have Dinner In Georgetown
We personally recommend this one. Are you quite tired of Five Guys? Good Stuff Eatery is just good. Too good, grab a burger, some fries, and a shake and you'll be happy. There are hundreds more restaurants in the area but if you want a quick bite to head back to the car or to simply get out of the evening and night traffic this may be the spot to dine and dash.
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